Category: Midsize SUVs

Nov 21

The Best Used Subaru Models with Exceptional Reliability

Discover the Best Subaru Models for Used Car Bargains

While new Subaru vehicles are known for their advanced features and sleek designs, their higher price tags might be out of reach for some buyers. Opting for a used Subaru can be a savvy choice, especially if you target models with proven reliability. Among these, the Subaru Outback stands out with several used model years earning high praise for their performance and durability.

The Subaru Outback’s Standout Model Years

According to data from CarComplaints.com, the Subaru Outback boasts multiple model years recognized for their excellence. The Outback models from 2006 to 2012, along with the 2017 version, are highlighted for their solid performance, despite some complaints. The 2017 model, while facing more issues like battery problems and cracked windshields, remains a cost-effective option as many repairs are minor or covered by warranty.

Other Subaru Models Worth Considering

In addition to the Outback, the Subaru Forester and Legacy also have commendable used model years. The Forester models from 2004, 2005, 2007, and 2008 are noted for their reliability, with fewer major issues compared to the Outback. Similarly, the 2006, 2007, and 2011 Legacy models offer dependable performance, though they may experience issues like transmission failures or head gasket leaks, often appearing after significant mileage.

Essential Tips for Buying a Used Subaru

When searching for a used Subaru, thorough research is essential. Start by test-driving the vehicle to check for any unusual noises and ensure all features work correctly. Additionally, obtain a vehicle history report and have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic to avoid hidden issues and ensure a smart purchase. An extended warranty might offer extra peace of mind, but it’s crucial to read the terms carefully before committing.

For more detailed insights on reliable Subaru models, check out our guides on the best Forester and Outback models under specific budgets and their most reliable years.

Nov 21

Discover the Unique Strengths of the 2024 Land Rover Defender 130

Unmatched Capability and Design

Land Rover has long been celebrated for crafting robust and versatile SUVs, and the 2024 Defender 130 continues this tradition with unmatched capability and luxury. While earlier models emphasized rugged utility, the Defender now offers a blend of strength and sophistication, making it a standout in the SUV market. This latest model, available in various trims, showcases Land Rover’s commitment to merging advanced engineering with comfort and style.

Superior Off-Road Performance

What sets the Defender 130 apart from typical SUVs is its exceptional off-road prowess. Unlike standard vehicles that can handle rough terrain, the Defender 130 is engineered for extreme conditions, backed by a rigorous testing regime that spans over 2.4 million miles. With its aluminum monocoque chassis and advanced suspension system, this SUV offers superior durability and handling, ensuring it thrives on the toughest trails, from the icy Arctic Circle to desert dunes.

Advanced Features and Powertrain Options

The Defender 130 boasts three distinct powertrains, catering to different performance needs. Options include a turbocharged four-cylinder, a robust inline-six, and a powerful supercharged V8, providing versatility for various driving experiences. Enhanced with features like Terrain Response and Hill Descent Control, the Defender 130 is equipped to tackle any adventure with ease, all while offering ample cargo space and seating for up to eight passengers.

Pricing and Value Proposition

While the Defender 130 commands a premium price starting around $70,000, it justifies the cost with its unique design and capabilities. Compared to competitors like the BMW X6 and Porsche Cayenne, it offers a rare combination of luxury, performance, and off-road readiness. For those seeking an elite SUV that blends adventure with sophistication, the Defender 130 presents a compelling choice.

Nov 20

The 2024 Kia Carnival: The Ultimate Family Vehicle Unveiled

A Winning Blend of Value and Versatility

Since its introduction as the Sedona’s successor in 2022, the Kia Carnival has quickly emerged as a formidable contender in the competitive minivan market. It stands toe-to-toe with giants like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler Pacifica, capturing the attention of family-oriented buyers. The Carnival distinguishes itself not only through its competitive pricing but also with its robust feature set and spacious interiors, appealing to those who seek both functionality and affordability.

Discovering the Sweet Spot: The Popular LX Seat Package

Among the variety of trims offered by the 2024 Kia Carnival, the LX Seat Package emerges as the clear favorite among consumers. Priced at just $35,200, this mid-tier option strikes an excellent balance between cost and features. It enhances the standard LX offerings with additional comforts such as synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat, making it an attractive choice for families looking for practical upgrades without breaking the bank.

Practicality Meets Comfort: Why Families Choose the LX Seat Package

The LX Seat Package’s popularity is largely due to its practical modifications to seating arrangements. By swapping the second-row captain’s chairs for a bench seat, it expands seating capacity from seven to eight, making room for more passengers or additional cargo. This trim also introduces the “Slide-Flex” seating system, enhancing accessibility and versatility, which is essential for busy families on the go. With these thoughtful adjustments, the Carnival not only meets but exceeds the expectations of its segment, providing a compelling reason for its popularity in the highly competitive minivan market.

Nov 20

Honda Announces Massive Recall for 250,000 SUVs Due to Rod Bearing Issues

Critical Recall for Honda SUVs

Honda has issued a significant recall affecting 250,000 SUVs from model years 2015 to 2020, addressing a serious issue with rod bearings that could lead to engine failure. This defect primarily impacts the 3.5-liter V6 engine, known for its 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, found in several popular models. A malfunction in these rod bearings, which are crucial components connecting the connecting rod to the crankshaft, can cause the crankshaft to seize, potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage.

What Owners Need to Know

The recall affects various models, including the Honda Pilot (2016, 2018, 2019), Acura TLX (2015-2020), Honda Ridgeline (2017, 2019), Acura MDX (2016-2020), and Honda Odyssey (2018-2019). Honda has identified a manufacturing flaw in the crankshaft machining process, which leads to inadequate lubrication of the rod bearings and subsequent engine issues such as unusual noises, stalling, or loss of power. Owners should be aware that Honda will address the problem at no cost, including a possible engine replacement, but the repair process will be time-consuming due to the need for thorough disassembly and inspection.

Oct 18

Ford Drops Hybrid V6 for 2024 Explorer: What This Means for Buyers

Ford’s Decision to Drop the Hybrid V6 Engine

Ford has decided to discontinue the 3.3-liter V6 hybrid engine option for the 2024 Explorer, maintaining the current model until the redesigned version arrives in 2025. This shift means that the Limited Hybrid and Platinum Hybrid trims will no longer be available, reflecting a broader industry trend where hybrids, despite their appeal, are sometimes overshadowed by other powertrain options. The decision aligns with Ford’s strategy to streamline its offerings as it prepares for a major update in the coming years.

Hybrid vs. Traditional Engines: Market Trends and Sales

Hybrids have gained popularity, with many buyers opting for them over purely electric vehicles. For instance, the hybrid variant of the Ford Maverick was highly sought after, though production struggled to meet demand. Conversely, the 2023 Explorer hybrid struggled with low sales figures, with a significant decline in market share from the previous year, prompting Ford to phase out this engine option.

Available Engine Options for 2024

For the 2024 model year, the Explorer will offer several engine choices. The base, XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims will feature the 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the King Ranch, Platinum, and ST trims will be equipped with a more powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the hybrid V6’s performance metrics.

Future Prospects for the Explorer

The 2019 Explorer model will continue to serve as the current generation until the updated version arrives. Expected updates include refreshed exterior styling and a larger infotainment system. Notably, police models will retain the hybrid engine, indicating that while the hybrid option is being phased out for consumers, it remains valued in specialized applications.

Oct 18

The 2023 Toyota Venza Beats the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid at Its Own Game

Speaking of games, the midsize SUV segment is all about it. If you thought finding a good sport utility vehicle in the segment would be easy, the sheer number of options indicates that won’t be the case. Take these two hybrid SUVs from Toyota and Hyundai. The 2023 Toyota Venza is a pretty good contender against the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. Here’s why: it gets better fuel economy and has a lower starting price.

The 2023 Toyota Venza is more fuel-efficient than the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.

A few reasons make the 2023 Toyota Venza a good midsize SUV, and its excellent fuel economy is one of the bigger ones. For this year, Toyota decided the Venza would be hybrid only. That actually serves this SUV quite well, giving it a smooth and mostly quiet ride.

The hybrid powertrain also makes the Venza one of the more fuel-efficient SUVs in Toyota’s lineup. It gets 40 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. After driving the Venza for a week, my fuel economy numbers were usually even higher. In fact, after driving the Toyota Venza around for a week, I didn’t even need to hit the gas station before handing it over. Read more about our week with the ridiculously smooth 2023 Venza here.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid gets a lot right, but it gets interestingly low fuel economy numbers. Hyundai says it gets 33-36 mpg in the city and 30-31 mpg on the highway. Those are still respectable numbers but come in a little low for a hybrid SUV.

Don’t overlook the 2023 Toyota Venza price

The 2023 Toyota Venza price starts at $34,620 for the base LE trim, while a fully loaded Limited is $42,765. As for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, the base Blue model starts at $36,210. A fully loaded Limited trim is $41,870 for 2023. The Venza starts at $1,590 less than the Hyundai and has one extra trim option for shoppers to choose from.

2023 Toyota Venza MSRP 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid MSRP
LE $34,620 Blue $36,210
XLE $38,830 SEL Premium $40,070
Nightshade $39,955 Limited $41,870
Limited $42,765

The Venza LE has many safety features and technology to make life easier. That includes wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless device charging. Toyota included dual-zone climate control, LED headlights, and a hands-free liftgate. We found the wireless services worked quite well in the Venza, even compared to some other Toyota SUVs. The infotainment system worked quickly, and the important settings were easy to locate and change.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has similar offerings across the trim levels, including wireless charging and streaming services. It has many USB ports, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. Hyundai included all of the important creature comforts, but the Santa Fe doesn’t offer a very plush interior. It gets the job done either way.

Toyota’s Venza interior is high-end

Though less important, the 2023 Venza interior slightly upsets the hybrid SUV. It takes cues from popular Lexus SUVs and uses high-end materials throughout the cabin. The infotainment system is easy to use, and Toyota adds plenty of convenience features to sweeten the deal. The Venza’s fuel economy is its biggest strength, but it is a well-rounded SUV in many ways.

Hyundai has a solid hybrid SUV in the Santa Fe, but it does get the best fuel economy, and the higher starting price is a detractor. The infotainment system is also slightly finicky. Overall, the Santa Fe is still an excellent SUV, but the Venza is surprisingly good in comparison. Depending on what your priorities are, the hybrid Toyota SUV might make a lot of sense.

Oct 18

Volvo Debuts Its First-Ever Minivan, the All-Electric EM90

Volvo’s Strategic Expansion into Minivans

In a surprising turn of events, Volvo is set to launch its inaugural minivan, the EM90, in 2024, marking its first foray into this vehicle category. The move, initially unexpected, aligns with Volvo’s strategy under the ownership of China’s Geely, which aims to leverage economies of scale across its various automotive brands. The EM90 is essentially a rebadged version of Zeekr’s recently introduced minivan, the 009, another Geely subsidiary, showcasing a shared platform that enhances both brands’ offerings in the electric vehicle market.

Design and Features of the Volvo EM90

Dubbed a “Scandinavian living room on the move,” the Volvo EM90 is impressively sized, mirroring the dimensions of luxury on wheels with its vast interior space optimized for comfort and style. It measures over 205 inches in length and features a sleek design with a drag coefficient of just 0.27, making it aerodynamically efficient despite its substantial size. Inside, the layout offers various configurations, including a luxurious 2+2+2 setup, providing ample room and a premium feel that distances it from traditional minivan designs.

Performance and Market Integration

The EM90 differentiates itself from its Zeekr counterpart with unique styling cues and a Volvo-branded aesthetic, including a distinctive fascia and minimal exterior tweaks like added chrome trim. It boasts a robust 268 horsepower from a single rear-mounted motor, with an optional dual-motor setup that skyrockets its output to 536 horsepower, allowing it to achieve 0 to 62 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Additionally, it features a cutting-edge battery system from CATL, offering up to 511 miles of range on a single charge, addressing any concerns about electric vehicle range limitations effectively.

Volvo’s Market Strategy and Future Outlook

The production of the EM90, set to commence in China post-New Year, represents a significant step in Volvo’s electric vehicle strategy, potentially setting a new standard for luxury electric minivans. While initial releases are slated for the Chinese market, the global potential for such a vehicle is substantial, given the growing demand for versatile, high-performance electric vehicles. Volvo’s cautious approach to confirming markets outside of China, including the U.S., suggests a strategic wait-and-see approach to gauge initial reception and adapt its strategy accordingly. This move could redefine consumer expectations for what a minivan can offer, merging traditional family vehicle utility with the performance and luxury of modern EVs.

Aug 19

2023 Toyota Highlander vs. Ford Explorer: Which SUV is More Cost-Effective in the Long Run?

Choosing between the 2023 Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer involves more than just evaluating their features—it’s also about understanding the long-term financial implications. This comparison delves into how these two SUVs stack up over time in terms of affordability, offering insights to help potential buyers make a well-informed decision.

Cost and Efficiency: A Tight Race

The base models of the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer are similarly priced, with the Highlander starting at $36,620 and the Explorer at $36,700. Both SUVs also have comparable fuel efficiency; the Explorer achieves 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the Highlander delivers slightly better at 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Notably, the Explorer comes with rear-wheel drive, whereas the Highlander features front-wheel drive, which might influence your choice depending on your driving style.

Five-Year Ownership Costs: A Closer Look

Over a five-year period, which encompasses depreciation, insurance, fuel, and maintenance, the Toyota Highlander is predicted to be more budget-friendly. Edmunds estimates that the Highlander will cost several thousand dollars less than the Explorer over five years. This savings is largely attributed to the Highlander’s lower repair costs and slightly superior fuel efficiency.

Choosing the Right SUV: Weighing Your Options

Even though the Highlander offers lower long-term costs, selecting the best SUV involves more than just financial considerations. Both the Highlander and Explorer have unique attributes that might cater to different preferences. Whether you value rear-wheel drive performance or enhanced fuel efficiency, it’s essential to assess each vehicle’s features and how they align with your personal needs and driving habits.

Aug 19

What is the Price of a Fully Loaded 2024 Cadillac XT6?

The 2024 Cadillac XT6 enters the competitive arena of midsize luxury SUVs, offering a spacious and feature-rich ride. With strong competitors like the Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and the new Lexus TX, the XT6 distinguishes itself with its roomy interior, impressive standard features, and competitive pricing.

Entry-Level 2024 Cadillac XT6 Luxury Trim

Starting at $48,795, the base Luxury trim of the 2024 Cadillac XT6 provides excellent value. It includes a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 237 horsepower, front-wheel drive as standard, and a range of desirable features such as three-row seating, an UltraView sunroof, and advanced safety systems. This trim is well-equipped with essentials but might prompt buyers to consider the higher Premium Luxury trim for added power and features.

Premium Luxury Trim and Optional Upgrades

For those seeking a more refined experience, the Premium Luxury trim starts at a higher price point and features a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310 horsepower. This model enhances the driving experience with premium features like 20-inch wheels, a Bose audio system, and additional comfort options such as second-row captain’s chairs. The Premium Luxury trim also introduces advanced packages, including the Technology and Driver Assist packages, which enhance safety and convenience.

Top-of-the-Line 2024 Cadillac XT6 Sport Trim

The Sport model, the highest trim level for the 2024 Cadillac XT6, begins at $60,295 and includes the powerful 310-hp V6 engine, performance suspension, and unique design elements like a mesh grille and black trim. With options such as premium paint, the Platinum Package, and Super Cruise, the total cost can exceed $83,000. While this pricing might seem steep compared to other models, it remains competitive with high-end rivals like the Lincoln Aviator Black Label and other luxury SUVs.

Aug 19

Chevy Blazer EV: What You Need to Know About Range and Pricing

Impressive Driving Range for the Chevy Blazer EV

The Chevy Blazer EV, soon to hit dealerships, is generating buzz for its impressive driving range. This new electric SUV from Chevrolet promises a solid performance with its range of up to 290 miles on a single charge for the top-tier SS AWD model. For the other trims, the 2LT AWD and RS AWD, expect a robust 279 miles, which aligns well with current industry standards and outperforms many competitors that offer between 200-250 miles per charge.

Competitive Pricing and Performance Features

Pricing for the Blazer EV starts at $56,715 for the 2LT and $60,215 for the RS, with the SS model’s price yet to be announced but anticipated to exceed $65,000. This model not only offers substantial range but also exhilarating performance, reaching 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds with the Wide Open Watts (W.O.W.) mode. As a more accessible option in the midsize electric SUV market, it stands out against high-priced rivals like the Tesla Model X, and its eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty adds extra appeal.

Availability and Market Impact

Chevrolet plans to roll out the Blazer EV in phases, with the RS trim arriving this summer, followed by the 2LT base model in the fall, and the fully equipped SS version in spring 2024. With its blend of range, performance, and pricing, the Blazer EV is poised to make a significant impact in the electric SUV segment. As consumers eagerly await its arrival, the Blazer EV’s innovative features and competitive pricing may well set new benchmarks in the EV market.