The all-new 2024 Chevy Trax may look like a bucket of compromises on paper, but when you drive it and experience it for yourself, it becomes a bucket of surprises. A torquey and audibly supreme engine, a well-designed interior, shockingly good driving dynamics, and a shockingly good price make the Trax the most fun-to-drive and likable entry in the subcompact crossover segment. … [Read more...] about 2024 Chevy Trax First Drive
CUV/SUV
2023 Lexus UX 250h F Sport Handling Review
The entry-level model in the Lexus lineup isn't a sedan, no, it's the cute and quirky UX 250h 'subcompact crossover'. Now a hybrid-only affair, this top-spec F Sport Handling model even has a hint of sporty pretense thanks to a firmer adaptive suspension and sharper design elements. Do the recent upgrades and a reliable and efficient hybrid system make the UX, essentially a … [Read more...] about 2023 Lexus UX 250h F Sport Handling Review
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid First Drive
It turns out that sometimes, being powered by a Prius powertrain is good. Case in point: the new Corolla Cross Hybrid shares its new eAWD hybrid system with the new Prius. Although rated for 42 MPG, we managed to average 50 MPG without trying terribly hard. Highway numbers should fall closer to 40 MPG, but any way you slice it, the new Corolla Cross Hybrid is an interesting … [Read more...] about 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid First Drive
2024 Mazda CX-90 First Drive
Perhaps it is finally time for Mazda to resurrect its "Zoom-Zoom" slogan with the inauguration of the 2024 CX-90. It's properly quick, no matter if you go with the turbocharged inline-6 or the plug-in hybrid, both of which represent new powertrain endeavors for the brand. The CX-90 also symbolizes Mazda's invasion of the premium and near-luxury segment with a swanky interior … [Read more...] about 2024 Mazda CX-90 First Drive
2023 Dodge Hornet GT First Drive
Do you remember what you were doing when Dodge came out with its last new model, the Dart, in 2012? We don't blame you if you don't, that was a long time ago. Things are finally changing, however, with the introduction of the all-new Dodge Hornet – a subcompact crossover based on the Alfa Romeo Tonale. This is certainly re-badging at its finest, but Dodge has injected a … [Read more...] about 2023 Dodge Hornet GT First Drive
2024 Dodge Hornet R/T First Drive
Do you remember what you were doing when Dodge came out with its last new model, the Dart, in 2012? We don't blame you if you don't, that was a long time ago. Things are finally changing, however, with the introduction of the all-new Dodge Hornet – a subcompact crossover based on the Alfa Romeo Tonale. This is certainly re-badging at its finest, but Dodge has injected a … [Read more...] about 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T First Drive
2023 Nissan Kicks Review
The 2023 Nissan Kicks may not be as cool as the Juke that it replaced here in the U.S., but it offers a solid mix of style and substance for the price. No all-wheel drive, but you shouldn't take the Kicks too far off the pavement anyway considering it's only working with 122 horsepower and a CVT. For just under $26k, however, you get a lot out of features and room for four … [Read more...] about 2023 Nissan Kicks Review
2023 Lexus RZ 450e First Drive
Lexus' first ground-up electric vehicle is here, and it's coming out......well, swinging might not be the best word. It's a Lexus, so comfortable, subjectively attractive and filled with new safety and tech features, but it lacks the impressive range found on a few key competitors. The best you can get out of it is about 220 miles, though the majority of models with bigger … [Read more...] about 2023 Lexus RZ 450e First Drive
Why You Should Really Consider a Plug-in Hybrid
Although Kia's Niro is more expensive with a plug than without one, the plug-in hybrid is significantly less expensive than the Niro EV and has almost zero compromises. Range anxiety? Doesn't exist. Performance? It's zippier than the regular hybrid. Battery life? Likely better than the EV because of how the battery is used. Charge times? Who cares, you have a gas tank. On my … [Read more...] about Why You Should Really Consider a Plug-in Hybrid
2022 Buick Envision Avenir Review
The Buick Envision may not be a household name, but I believe it is the most effective example of what a Buick should be considering its current lineup of crossovers. It has an elegant design, a good amount of space inside, and just enough power to satisfy those who may be coming from vehicles with V6s or higher-performing turbo 4-cylinders. This Avenir trim's interior is the … [Read more...] about 2022 Buick Envision Avenir Review