Driven Car Reviews
Tom Voelk, a New York Times contributor and Emmy Award-winning automotive journalist, takes a close look at all things cars. Each episode reviews the latest vehicles and offers insights on the automotive industry. The show is designed for car enthusiasts and potential buyers alike, delivering straightforward, expert commentary.
Episodes
2026 Lucid Gravity Grand Touring Goes Fast… and Far
Lucid finally has its 3-row electric SUV, the Lucid Gravity Grand Touring. With up to 450 miles of EPA-rated range you'll need to stop for bathroom breaks more often than charging session. This 828-horsepower, dual-motor AWD luxury EV gets ultra-fast 1,000V charging architecture capable of 400kW peak speeds. In this full review, I take you through performance, charging, driving impressions, interi
Go Farther Into the Wilderness With the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Do you feel your dog is judging your vehicle's gas mileage? It'll be happy to know that the Subaru Crosstrek is now available as a more efficient hybrid. This isn't the first Crosstrek to run with a gas-electric powertrain, but it might be the best. Smoother and more powerful than the gas-only version, the hybrid might be the way to go if the bump in price is affordable. And know you might not mak
2026 Audi A6 TFSI First Drive: Old-School Sedan Meets New-School Audi
The new 2026 Audi A6 TFSI proves the traditional luxury sedan isn't dead yet. Built on Audi's new Premium Platform Combustion architecture, this ninth-generation A6 sticks with Audi's proven formula- a turbocharged 3 -liter V6, quattro all-wheel drive, and a classic four-door layout. Gen 9 but layers in more performance, a quieter, more refined ride and modern tech. In this first-drive review from
2027 Rivian R2 Performance First Drive- When Smaller is a Big Deal.
The wait is finally over. The all-new 2027 Rivian R2 is one of the most anticipated electric vehicles on the market, and I got behind the wheel of the flagship Dual Motor Performance model during a test drive in Bellevue, Washington. This is not my normal video review. It's a consumer test drive much like you would take, only a lot more cameras stuck all around the vehicle. In this first-drive rev
2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness Review. Real Off-Road Capability or Just the Look?
Subaru's Forester is back with the Wilderness treatment the brand is known for. There's extra ground clearance, an off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, upgraded cooling, and of course, Subaru's signature symmetrical all-wheel drive. In this in-depth review, Tom Voelk tests the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness both on road and off pavement to see how much real capability it adds — and what
2026 Nissan Leaf Review- The Affordable EV That Finally Gets It Right
The 2026 Nissan Leaf is all-new and more refined. Plus it's more affordable than most EVs on sale today. Starting at $31,500 (yeah, including shipping), it delivers real-world range, upgraded tech, and the everyday comfort Nissan is known for — without drifting into luxury-car pricing. After living with the Leaf for a full week, I dig into real-world range, charging speeds, interior usability, rid
2026 Subaru Outback- More Space, Less Wagon
The Subaru Outback is new for 2026 and it's a solid choice for brand loyalists (and they are a faithful bunch). Will current owners return for another Outback now that it has moved away from the wagon look and embraced a more SUV-like design? In this full review of the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT, I test the turbocharged 2.4-liter Boxer engine, evaluate the new interior, improved infotainme
2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS is Roomy Rapid Transit
Some sporty vehicles are more show than go. The 2025 Chevy Blazer EV SS earns its performance letters but stays chill. With dual motor AWD, it delivers up to 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. That should get the kids to school. And the enhanced suspension keeps it under control without a punishing ride. Tom Voelk travels to North Carolina and the Ten Tenths Motor Club in the shadow of Char
Scout Motors Traveler and Terra Full Tour Inside and Out
Have a deposit down on a Scout Motors Traveler or Terra? Maybe you're curious about what Volkswagen's revival of the brand will look like. For sure they're packed with heritage. Team Scout brought its prototype vehicles to Mudfest 2026 to show the members of the Northwest Automotive Press Association what to expect when the Traveler SUV and Terra pickup start arriving in 2028. Tom Voelk offers up
A Cherokee That Parks Itself? Testing the Jeep ParkSense
The new 2026 Jeep Cherokee has a lot tech in it. For starters, a hybrid powertrain comes standard. And ParkSense self-parking technology is available in the top trim Overland version as an option. Self-parking systems are not new, but the Jeep tech is especially easy to figure out. It works when parallel plus forward and backward perpendicular parking. You may not need it on the trail but, for the
Ford Mach-E GT is the Fastest Mustang Mortals Can Buy. No V8. No Apologies.
The Mustang Mach-E is the quickest Mustang money can buy (unless you have the funds for a GTD). Unleashing 480 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque (or 700 lb-ft with the $995 Performance Upgrade), GT's standard dual-motor AWD snaps off 0-60 runs in 3.3 seconds. This electric SUV/hatchback/Mustang adjacent machine accelerates most with the best. It goes around a corner impressively too. In this full
The Automaker That Takes Design Very Seriously? Kia. Surprised? Here's Why...
Think great automotive design is only for high-end luxury and performance vehicles? Not necessary. Starting 20 years ago after stealing Peter Schreyer from the Volkswagen Group, Kia has quietly built an impressive portfolio of original award-winning automotive design. Tom Voelk travels to Milan, Italy for Design Week 2026 to show how the company is serious about staying true to its concept car des
A New Car for Under $24,000? Check Out the 2026 Nissan Sentra.
Can't afford luxury transportation? The new 9th generation Nissan Sentra offers the luxury of transportation, starting at $23,845 (yup, with destination). That's something of a unicorn in today's new-car market. Tom Voelk checks out a fully loaded SR at just under $32K, but know that all Sentras come with the same engine, transmission, and suspension. For buyers that need the peace of mind a new
The Good (And Bad?) of Living With a Used Porsche Taycan 4S For 9 Months
By popular demand, here's my 9-month ownership update on my Certified Pre-Owned Porsche Taycan 4S. After three quarters of a year of daily driving, road trips, software updates, recalls, accessories, and real-world EV living, I'm sharing what it's actually like to own a used Taycan. This can be applied to many EVs. I spent over three months searching for the right car because while a used Taycan i
2027 Hyundai IONIQ 3 Brings Fun, Practicality and the Art of Steel… to the Rest of the World
The new 2027 Hyundai IONIQ 3 has a lot going for it. It's affordable (starting at €30,000), roomier than a car this size has any right to be, and debuts Hyundai's new Art of Steel design language. But Americans will look longingly at it from across the pond since it's (for now at least) not coming the Land of the Free. Though parts of it, like the new design approach and the Android Automotive-bas
2027 Hyundai IONIQ 3 Brings Fun, Practicality and the Art of Steel… to the Rest of the World
The new 2027 Hyundai IONIQ 3 has a lot going for it. It's affordable (starting at €30,000), roomier than a car this size has any right to be, and debuts Hyundai's new Art of Steel design language. But Americans will look longingly at it from across the pond since it's (for now at least) not coming the Land of the Free. Though parts of it, like the new design approach and the Android Automotive-bas
2026 Jeep Cherokee Is Back... as a Hybrid
Built on Stellantis' new STLA Large platform, the all-new Cherokee is now hybrid-only. My how it's grown! It's aiming squarely at heavy hitters like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage. With standard all-wheel drive, significantly improved fuel economy, and a smooth hybrid system, it's clearly targeting mainstream buyers—not just off-road enthusiasts. And it
2026 Jeep Cherokee Is Back... as a Hybrid
Built on Stellantis' new STLA Large platform, the all-new Cherokee is now hybrid-only. My how it's grown! It's aiming squarely at heavy hitters like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage. With standard all-wheel drive, significantly improved fuel economy, and a smooth hybrid system, it's clearly targeting mainstream buyers—not just off-road enthusiasts. And it
The 2026 Trailseeker is the Perfect Subaru For High Gas Prices
The new Subaru Trailseeker has Outback practicality, EV efficiency, and enough off-road credibility to handle the forest service roads you and your dog will point it at. In this full review, I break it all down- performance, range, charging, interior tech, and how it compares to its twin—the Toyota bZ Woodland. Yes, they share a lot. But Trailseeker might be the smarter buy. With standard AWD (hey
The Hyundai IONIQ 6 N Turns it Up to 11
Hyundai has made it official- the IONIQ 6 N is coming to the North American market in late spring / early summer of 2026. Is it one better than the legendary 5N? There's certainly reason to believe that. 6N gets upgraded performance electronics and a new suspension for a lower center of gravity. Plus it's more aerodynamic. Tom Voelk travels to Hyundai Design North America in Irvine, CA to talk to
2026 Chevy Traverse Z71- Big Space. Big Tech. 4-Cylinder Engine?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse competes in crowded 3-row family SUV segment. It goes up against heavy hitters like Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Toyota Grand Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, and the upcoming second generation Kia Telluride. Traverse delivers huge space, solid comfort, good tech, and the option of GM's excellent Super Cruise. There is that turbo 4-cylinder sound though. In this review, I c
Hyundai Crater
Honda Prelude is Back With a Retro Name and a Forward Attitude
After missing in action for over two decades, Honda Prelude returns as a performance 2+2 with a hybrid powertrain. Scheduled to hit showrooms in late 2025, the 2026 Prelude gets Civic Type R's dual-axis strut front suspension, four-piston Brembo aluminum front calipers, and an adaptive suspension. Linear Shift Control simulates cog swaps plus there's a new S+ Shift mode. Tom Voelk previews Honda's
2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ is All-Electric Luxury Done The American Way
There's nothing quite like the 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ. Fully electric, it slays range anxiety with an EPA-rated range of 460 miles and can take on 100 miles of travel in just 10 minutes. Efficient? No. The IQ achieves its mission the good old fashioned American way- throw a lot of resources at it (the pack is rated at 205kWh for starters). It's large, it's heavy and it's polarizing. But darned
First Look! The All-New 2027 Second Generation Kia Telluride!
Hard to believe it's been some six years since the Kia Telluride hit the scene. Apparently internally, it's been known as the "Selluride" since it's such a hot commodity, dealers can't keep them in stock, even though production has been increased every year since it's launch. It's been a huge win for Kia and has helped to reset the brand's image. So gen two is very important.
2026 6th Generation Toyota RAV4 Goes All Hybrid All the Time
The new 2026 Toyota RAV4 leaves the ICE powertrain behind to go fully hybrid, both traditional HEV and plug-in hybrid with up to 52 miles of all-electric range. Plus there's a new performance version, the GR Sport with RAV4's most potent powertrain ever. Tom Voelk travels to Phoenix, AZ to drive three different flavors of the 6th generation RAV4, the Limited HEV, the off-road oriented Woodland wi
Would I Do it Again? 6 Months With a Used Porsche Taycan 4S.
Automotive writers drive a lot of vehicles. I was so smitten with the Porsche Taycan, I saved up my pennies and bought a 4S (what I consider the sweet spot). Buying used meant it was affordable, as Porsche go. CPO Taycans can be over 50% off. So, how's that high performance EV thing working out? Here's what's happened over the last 6 months.
All New 2026 Nissan Leaf is Improved in Every Way
The Nissan Leaf was an EV pioneer but it's been long in the tooth for years. The all-new third generation is improved in every way with up to 303 miles of range, faster charging speed and a liquid cooled battery pack. Plus NACS! It's affordable, starting at under $30,000. Tom Voelk and Autoblog's Cole Attisha check out a loaded Platinum + trim with features found only on premium vehicles just a fe
Best Vehicles of 2025! The Driven Top 11 List!
Automotive writer Tom Voelk drove over 100 vehicles in 2025. What are his favorites? These 11, a wide mix of cars, trucks, and SUVs with ICE, hybrid and EV powertrains. Here's Tom's year in review as he goes over what he enjoyed the most. Many of these are finalists for the North American Utility, Car and Truck of the Year Award. And many are affordable with nearly half available under $40,000 wel
2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS is Roomy Rapid Transit
Some sporty vehicles are more show than go. The 2025 Chevy Blazer EV SS earns its performance letters. With dual motor AWD, it delivers up to 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. That should get the kids to school. And the enhanced suspension keeps it under control without a punishing ride. Tom Voelk travels to North Carolina and the Ten Tenths Motor Club in the shadow of Charlotte Motor Speedw
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid is Gas/Electric Power for the Faithful
Subaru owners are a loyal bunch but to get a hybrid powertrain, the faithful had to move to a different brand. The 2025 Forester Hybrid rights that wrong. Yes, it had some help from part owner Toyota, but there's a lot of Subaru under the hood. The Boxer engine remains. So does Symmetrical all-wheel drive (because even more than love, it's what makes a Subaru a Subaru). How's the power and efficie
Jeep Cherokee is Back With Hybrid Power for 2026
It's been a few years since Cherokee cast a shadow in Jeep showrooms. Coming in late 2025, the 6th generation rights that wrong. Powered by a turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid making 210 horsepower, it should average 37 miles on a gallon of gas. Bigger and roomier (30% more cargo room for starters) it gets a square-jawed design for those that loved the original look. Tom Voelk previews the 2026 Chero
The Ford Maverick Lobo is Party up Front, Business in Back
If the mullet is business in front party in the back, the new 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo reverses that. It's a sportier version of Ford compact trucklette. The 4 ½ foot bed will help to get the chores done. For a good time on twisty roads Lobo gets a specially tuned suspension, dual clutch torque vectoring rear differential and specific Lobo drive mode for tight autocross courses. Tom Voelk checks ou
2025 Polestar 3 is the SUV the Young Brand Needs
Fast, nimble and sleek, Polestar 3 is a much-needed addition to the 2 that's been Polestar's only real offering since 2020. Pricing starts at $68,900 for a rear-drive model with 350 miles of E.P.A.-rated range. Tom Voelk checks out a top spec dual-motor AWD Long Range version with the Plus and Performance Packs, retailing for $91,800 before any government tax incentives or Polestar spiffs (keep an
2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is the Real Deal
There are dozens of SUVs to choose from. Some coddle the family at the expense of off-road performance. Others can tackle Moab but punish drivers on the pavement heading there. The new 4th generation Honda Passport TrailSport is the sweet spot, offering traction on tough trails and comfort in the concrete canyons (you know, where most miles are driven). It's not an extreme boulder crawler but in m
2025 Toyota Crown Signia Limited Bumps Up Against Lexus
Cars are transportation, right? Getting from point A to B. They're also status symbols, pop culture icons, sculpture, engineering, plus environmental and political touchstones (as Elon is finding out). Crown Signia replaces Venza in Toyota's SUV portfolio, in the same way the Crown sedan nudged Avalon aside a few years back. Crown has been the Big T's premium machine going back to the 1950's, just
The AFEELA is a Sony. And a Honda. With Some Help From Amazon.
Apple may have abandoned plans for an electric vehicle but Sony is forging ahead. Reservations for the Sony Honda Mobility AFEELA should begin in 2025 with deliveries expected in 2026. Powered by Amazon AWS cloud technology, AFEELA is stuffed with tech, both ADAS and entertainment. Options include music and movie streaming plus remote PlayStation gaming from your home PS5 (hey, it's a Sony). Tom V
The Tesla Supercharger Network is Opening to All EVs. Here's How it Works.
For years, the Supercharger network was a singular reason to buy a Tesla over other brands of electric vehicles. With loads of locations and a reputation for reliability, it's been the charging provider to beat. Now Musk and Company are opening it up to other manufacturers like Ford, GM, Hyundai, and Kia. Tom Voelk loads the Tesla app into his phone and takes the new Volvo EX30 to a Supercharger s
The 2025 Volvo EX30 Twin Motor is Fast, Furious and Minimalistic
Looking for a compact machine to rule the city? Volvo's EX30 is the perfect tool. The brand might be known for safety, but the all-electric EX30 with Twin Motor power is a pocket rocket, the fastest accelerating Volvo ever. Built on Geely's Sustainable Experience Architecture (or SEA) it's E.P.A. rated at 253 miles as tested. Tom Voelk checks out a loaded Ultra Twin Motor model and finds a fun run
15 Vehicles. 15 Auto Writers. Which Car Wins 2025 NWAPA Drive Revolution?
Take 15 vehicles, 15 automotive writers and two days of testing and you have Drive Revolution. Put on by the Northwest Automotive Press Association (or NWAPA), it's a competition to find the best ICE, HEV and BEV vehicles. NWAPA members also vote on best value and choose the NWAPA Drive Revolution Vehicle of the Year. Here's the list of competitors- 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack 2025 Ford M
The 2026 Genesis GV70 is a Tough Competitor Updated
21 SUVs and Pickups, 1 Grand Prize Winner. Welcome to NWAPA Mudfest 2025!
Every year, Northwest Automotive Press Association members get together to hold Mudfest, the NW Activity Vehicle of the Year competition. It's a real world look at the kinds of vehicles people are buying today, not just crawling over rocks and trees. 19 automotive Northwest Automotive Press Association writers assembled at The Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, WA for two days of on-pavement and o
I Take Delivery of a CPO Porsche Taycan 4S. Here's What it's Like…
The Porsche dealership delivery experience is significantly different than picking up a Toyota. What's it like? Tom Voelk flies from Seattle to Ontario, CA to grab the keys to his new-to-him 2021 Porsche Taycan 4S to find out. Flying standby. Airport pickup. Touring the car for the first time. Checking out swag and aftermarket gear. Learning how to spec out and order a new Porsche. Setting up the
Porsche Taycan 4S Road Trip LA to Seattle (Part Two)
Part two of Tom Voelk's road trip from Ontario, CA to Seattle begins at 10AM in Woodland, CA with the Taycan's range reading just 10 miles. With no overnight charging available, Tom puts his trust in the Porsche Intelligent Range Manager to steer him towards charging stations along the I5 corridor. How easy is it to navigate the infrastructure? Will Electrify America leave Tom stranded? How many W
Porsche Taycan 4S Los Angeles to Seattle Road Trip (Part One)
Think road tripping in an electric vehicle in 2025 is a gamble and charging takes too much time? Tom Voelk gets into his new (to him) 2021 CPO Porsche Taycan 4S in Ontario, CA and points it towards Seattle. Will full faith in the Porsche Intelligent Range Manager he hits charging stations along the I5 corridor. It's a $75K video months in the making! Will Electrify America deliver over 1,200 miles
2026 Kia Sportage SX Prestige Sneeks Up on the Premium Brands
Kia might not be known for hybrid powertrains but it has 10 electrified (yes, I hate that descriptor too) vehicles to choose from. For 2026, Sportage, its most popular model, gets a midcycle refresh and a little extra power. It might not be quite as efficient as RAV4 and CR-V but it's quiet, comfortable, stylish and a good value. Tom Voelk and Jeremy Korzeniewski drive an AWD SX Prestige trim outs
The New 2024 Lincoln Nautilus is More Than Just a Huge Screen
Lincoln's Nautilus is new for 2024 and the big news is a huge screen. 4 feet wide, it dominates the interior. Does it work or is it just a gimmick? Tom Voelk checks out a loaded AWD Reserve III trim with the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine ($1,500 will buy the more powerful hybrid powertrain). The display is impressive but hardly the only thing to like about this 5-seat SUV.
All-New 2026 Hyundai Palisade Gets Hybrid Efficiency and Off Road Chops
The second-generation 2026 Hyundai Palisade is larger, roomier and gets an optional hybrid powertrain for the first time. Plus there's a new XRT Pro off-road oriented model with more capability in rugged situations, including a trail camera system, recovery hooks and additional instrumentation. Tom Voelk checks out a Calligraphy Hybrid and XRT Pro V6 to preview the 2026 Palisade before it's arriva
Nissan Ariya is Plush, Hushed and Flush With Features
Nissan pioneered mass market electrification with Leaf but it took a long time to bring it's second EV to the US. Ariya is quite different from Leaf. It's more refined. CHAdeMO is gone. The battery pack is liquid cooled. And AWD is available (dubbed e-4ORCE). The roomy cabin with its Japanese inspired details will seat 5 adults. Tom Voelk drives a loaded Platinum+ trim and finds comfort, style, so
The New 2025 Toyota Camry Goes All Hybrid, All The Time
The 2025 Toyota Camry ditches the inline-4 and V6 engines for a fully hybrid lineup. The new nose and cabin space impresses. So does the fuel economy that's as high as 51 miles per gallon. And for the first time, AWD is available with the Camry's hybrid powertrain. Tom Voelk checks out a loaded XSE AWD and finds much that's new… and a lot that's familiar.
Nissan Ariya e-4FORCE Mountain Pass and Highway Speed Range Test
Nissan's Ariya with e-4ORCE AWD is EPA rated at 267 miles. But road tripping at highway speeds over mountain passes will suck the life force from the pack. Tom Voelk and the lovely Mariko take a Platinum+ trim to Eastern Washington for a camping trip, covering nearly 600 miles. How far does it travel loaded down with gear? How good (or bad) is the charging infrastructure in rural areas? All these
OMG! No CarPlay? Living With The Chevy Equinox EV Interface
The internet grabbed its torches and pitchforks when General Motors announced it was eliminating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in its EVs. But… what if GM's system works just fine without them? Unlike most brands, Chevrolet throws in eight years of free interface connectivity, so there's no subscription fee. Tom Voelk spent five days in a Chevy Equinox EV to see if the system (originally dubbed U
Kia EV9 Wind AWD is the Electric Telluride Families Want
The Kia EV9 is been available for a just short time and has already racked up dozens of awards. What's it like to live and travel with? Tom Voelk snags a Land AWD trim for a week to see if it has the space, features, range, comfort, cargo space and charge speed for families to use as their only vehicle. Spoiler alert, yeah, pretty much.
The New 2025 Subaru Forester is the Vehicle Your Dog Has Waited For
Grab your skis, camping gear and dog, there's a new 6th generation Subaru Forester. With a beefed-up architecture and standard symmetrical all-wheel drive (of course) it feels more substantial now, even if the toughest road you take is a street with potholes. Tom Voelk checks out a top trim Touring trim with leather seats and the best looking interior to ever wear the Forester badge.
2025 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered is a Safe Bet For Driving Fun
Anyone that's followed Volvo over the years knows the Swedes are not above having a good time. Gothenburg has produced some true driving cars. The 2025 Volvo XC60 T8 Polestar Engineered is one of them. Useful too since it's an SUV. Plus, as a plug-in hybrid with 36 miles of all-electric range, it can even save owners money. Good thing. As tested in Vapor Gray paint, it MSRPs for $77,345. Also, a b
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Adds Hybrid Power (Courtesy of the Big T)
The Mazda CX-50 crossover has always been a stylish fun-to-drive way to get the chores done. Now it's more efficient with a first-ever hybrid powertrain. And the gas/electric setup is from Toyota so there's reassurance that it's been done right. Does it keep the band's frisky fun dynamics? Tom Voelk checks out a top-trim Premium Plus edition with standard AWD to find out.
2025 Kia Carnival HEV is a Turbocharged Hybrid Hauler
The Kia Carnival MPV has always been a competitive family hauler. For 2025 it adds a hybrid powertrain good for 33 MPG. And it's turbocharged! All Carnivals, even the V6-powered version, get a mid-cycle refresh with a stronger grille, Star Map headlamps and new tech. The HEV powertrain's 54kW electric motor adds more than efficiency, it helps to smooth out the ride quality and improve handling. An
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Design Deep Dive
The 3-row 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is getting big buzz. Radically different from the last generation, it's as square as the outgoing model was rounded. For design enthusiasts, here's a look at the press launch styling presentation. Kevin Kang, head of design for Hyundai North America shares details of how the Santa Fe was developed. It's just like being at an automotive event. Some think Santa Fe loo
2025 MINI Cooper S is Big Fun in a Small Package
Only one automaker that uses the size of its cars as a brand name. That would be MINI. While the 2025 Cooper gets a bumper-to bumper redo, it largely keeps the classic look alive, with the bulldog look moving from lovable pet next door to Westminster Kennel Club groomed. Tom Voelk checks out a turbocharged Cooper S in Iconic trim. It's a premium small car that's great for slicing up crowded urban
Acura ZDX Type S Amps Up The Brand
Acura has finally gone all-electric. The ZDX revives a classic nameplate but adds a modern EV jolt, starting with General Motor's Ultium platform. Is it a wedding that works? Tom Voelk checks out a top-trim Type S that adds power, adaptive air suspension and bigger brakes (but takes away a bit of range). It even gets Super Cruise… kind of.
2025 Q6 e-tron quattro Ups Audi's EV Game
Audi has more fully electric vehicles that most people realize. The all new Q6 e-tron is the fourth in the brand's line up and is built on the Premium Platform Electric architecture (or PPE) so it goes far, charges fast and drives well. It's the best electric SUV the four rings folks have built to date. Tom Voelk travels to Healdsburg, CA to drive the Q6 e-tron quattro Prestige trim with Chris May
The Right Tires Can Save Lives. Here's How They're Tested.
No one WANTS to buy tires, but as long as you need to, do it right. Discount Tire bought the old Cooper Tires testing facility in Pearsall, Texas and analyses everything from budget rubber to high performance tires. Here's a look behind the scenes on how your Michelins, Pirellis, Goodyears and dozens of other brands get evaluated, and how all of that information comes together on DT's Treadwell we
2025 Nissan Rogue Rock Creek is Dressed to Fashion Conditions
Rogue is Nissan's best-selling vehicle and for 2025 it gains the Rock Creek trim level first found on Pathfinder. A tougher looking grille, tubular roof rack, red accents scattered everywhere and all-terrain tires give off a tough SUV vibe even though there's no extra ground clearance or underbody protection. But the look will appeal to buyers that want the North Face visual even if the closest th
Driven! The new 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport and Trailhunter
The all-new (and yes, it's ALL new) 6th generation 2025 Toyota 4Runner was a long time coming (gen five started production in late 2009). The new 4Runner swaps V6 power for a turbocharged i-FORCE 4-cylinder or the i-FORCE MAX Turbo Hybrid for extra oomph. Larger, more comfortable and easier to drive now, it should be more popular than ever, even with the price hike. Tom Voelk checks out 2 of the 9
2025 Nissan Murano Platinum Bumps Up Against Luxury Competitors
The 4th generation Nissan Murano has been a long time coming. Last redone in 2014, the 2025 version gets fresh Ariya-inspired design, new engine tech and, drumroll please, a 9-speed transmission. That's right, no more CVT. It's strong competition for Chevy Blazer, Honda Passport and Mazda CX70, but could distract Acura RDX, Lexus LX and Lincoln Aviator shoppers. Tom Voelk checks out a fully loaded
I Bought a High-Performance EV. The Deals Are Incredible.
Yes, I've FINALLY bought an EV. How does a guy that drives a different vehicle every week decide on a personal car? Very slowly. And carefully. I break down what I was looking for and why I got what I got. The plan is to cover this car more in the future. But know this- there are some amazing values out there and, if you're patient, it's possible to score over 50% off the original MSRP or more on
2025 Chevy Trax is Affordable Transportation Done Right
You might not need inexpensive transportation, but friends and family might. I spent a week in the Chevy Trax. Fully loaded? Under $28K. GM executed about perfect here. It's not overly fast (hey it's a budget priced car) but it's refined, roomy and looks great inside and out. Most people think it's a $40K car.
Genesis Unveils the Magma Racing GMR-001 Hypercar!
On the eve of the New York International Auto Show, Genesis took the wraps off its new Genesis Magma Racing GMR-001 Hypercar at Genesis House. Since you can't be there, I shot the introduction video and unveiling. It will be laying the groundwork for the team's 2026 WEC debut, and then the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Designed at Genesis Design Europe under Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke, the pow
The Genesis X Gran Equator Concept Should Be Built Right Now
On the eve of the New York International Auto Show, Genesis unveiled the X Gran Equator concept at Genesis House. No words here, just video. But it speaks for itself. Genesis did not talk about power trains, but looking at the front it's likely electric. Long of hood with a split tailgate, it's clearly aimed at the one percent. And check out the interior with loads of leather pouch storage and not
Tour the 2025 New York International Auto Show
Can't come to the 2025 New York International Auto Show? Tom Voelk has all the reveals and highlights so you can check it out from your couch. At 125 years old, the NYIAS is the oldest auto show in the US. You could spend a day checking out everything, or watch as Tom packs it into 20 minutes of highlights. Concepts. SUVs. Electric Vehicles. Exotics. Plus the newest of the new.
2025 Acura ADX A-Spec AWD is Big News in a Small Package
People want refinement, style, comfort, utility and pride of ownership out of a car. Acura offers up the all-new ADX compact crossover. Starting at $36,350 with shipping, it undercuts Audi Q3, BMW X1, Lexus UX, Mercedes GLA and Volvo XC40 on price but delivers on features. It's the entry level SUV that Acura has needed for a while. Tom Voelk travels to the San Diego, CA region to test out an ADX A
2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the Best One Yet
Chevy's Equinox is one of the most popular crossovers in class. For 2025 it gets a major overhaul with a new rugged approach to design. Simply put, it's a sizable improvement over the outgoing generation. Tom Voelk checks out a lightly optioned all-wheel drive ACTIV version with it's General Grabber all-terrain tires and finds it doesn't take a lot of extras to make it a solid competitor. And yes
Life With Hyundai IONIQ 5 N
Hyundai's IONIQ 5 N is brilliant on the race track. Does that mean a punishing and high-strung dynamic during everyday driving? Maybe not. Tom Voelk snags one for a week to see if the range, charge speed and utility are ready for family hauling when not chewing up a raceway. This is after all, on Tom's short list of cars to buy.
The Best Vehicles of 2024
Here's my Top 11 List for 2024 folks, the cars, trucks and SUVs that I feel offer value, design, utility and innovation. It's hard to narrow down, competition is fierce. But here ya go. Happy New Year! It's going to be interesting…
2024 Lincoln Nautilus is More Than Just a Huge Screen
Lincoln's Nautilus is new for 2024 and the big news is a huge screen. 4 feet wide, it dominates the interior. Does it work or is it just a gimmick? Tom Voelk checks out a loaded AWD Reserve III trim with the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine ($1,500 buys the more powerful hybrid powertrain). The display is impressive but hardly the only thing to like about this 5-seat SUV.
2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Gets More Room and Style
Like the first-generation Hyundai Kona, gen two is available with gas and all-electric powertrains. Bigger, roomier, more refined and quicker to charge now, Kona Electric should be more appealing to more buyers. Make sure you buy the right model though since the SE's battery and motor are different. Tom checks out a loaded $42,440 Limited model at an event in Monterey, CA. He figures the sweet spo
2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 is Ultimate Stealthy Refinement
Premium vehicles are all about sophistication. It's a good argument for the BMW i5, a fully electric 5 Series. Packed with tech, refinement and a dollop of Ultimate Driving Machine dynamics, electrification might be the best way to experience the 5 Series (though ICE and PHEV version are available). People admiring the design may be oblivious it's missing a gas powertrain. It's just that subtle. A
2024 Hyundai Elantra N is Big Affordable Fun
Want enthusiast grade driving dynamics at a reasonable price? Hyundai offers bang-for-the-buck with the Elantra N. Upgraded for 2024, there are some real changes that make it a better car, things like improved brakes and forged aluminum alloy wheels. And at just under $35,000 it's fully loaded with grippy sport seats, adjustable suspension and Bose sound. And yes, there's a 6-speed manual. Tom Voe
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is a Tire Shredding Machine
Hyundai's IONIQ 5 N is equipped with N Drift Optimizer. In the hands of N Brand Vice President JooN Park, the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 tires are shown no mercy. Watch as he obliterates the rear rubber in short order. For now, full driving impressions of the IONIQ 5 N are under embargo, but I'll be sharing my experience at Weather Tech Laguna Seca soon. A hint? It's a must see. Subscribe and click notifi
2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited AWD is Sleek and Sixy
Hyundai's all-electric Ioniq 6 has racked up dozens of awards and accolades. It's fast, rides well, charges quickly and wears daring Streamliner design sheetmetal. If you're looking for a curvy EV with the most squares, this is your sedan (and you don't see many 4-doors these days).. Tom Voelk snags one from Hyundai for a week for a full shakedown and finds it be one of the most enjoyable electric
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