2024 Infiniti QX80

The Infiniti QX80 holds the title of being the largest vehicle within the Infiniti lineup. This full-size SUV boasts greater length, roominess, and a higher price tag compared to the midsize Infiniti QX60, which occupies a step lower in the model range. While the QX60 received a comprehensive redesign for the 2022 model year, the current QX80 traces its roots back to 2011. Over the years, it has received numerous updates to keep its safety and technology features up-to-date, yet its overall design may appear a bit dated. In contrast to more recent arrivals like the BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and Jeep Grand Wagoneer, which boast contemporary designs, the QX80 exhibits signs of its age.

Notwithstanding the absence of a recent overhaul, the QX80 remains a robust luxury SUV that shares its foundation with the Nissan Armada. It boasts a potent and seamless 5.6-liter V8 engine, capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds, making it suitable for accommodating the needs of a large family during weekend getaways. While it inherits the Armada’s ruggedness and power, the QX80 sets itself apart with a significantly more refined interior and accommodation for up to eight occupants. Standard features, such as leather seats and a Bose audio system, elevate the experience across all trim levels, rendering the QX80 an excellent choice for extended road trips. Although the third-row seating doesn’t match the spaciousness offered by the Cadillac Escalade, it’s perfectly suitable for shorter drives, and children won’t mind even if the journey extends. Another notable advantage is its relatively modest starting price within the luxury SUV category. Thus, the Infiniti QX80 does reveal signs of aging through its outdated exterior styling and a robust yet fuel-thirsty V8 engine. Nevertheless, these drawbacks do not detract from its comfortable ride, high-quality materials, and ample interior space, confirming its status as a formidable full-size luxury SUV.

 

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

In terms of redesigns, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe takes a truly radical turn. The outgoing Santa Fe adhered to a conventional midsize SUV design, characterized by its rounded contours that softened the edges of what was essentially a boxy utility vehicle. However, the new 2024 Santa Fe charts a completely different course, embracing sharp corners that accentuate its clean, straight lines. Beyond its visually striking design, this new Santa Fe also gains extra length between its front and rear wheels, promising enhanced passenger and cargo space inside. Hyundai has also confirmed the addition of a third row of seating, diverging from the previous two-row setup. The implications for Hyundai’s three-row Palisade in their lineup remain uncertain, but for now, both vehicles will cater to up to eight passengers.

Hyundai has emphasized that the Santa Fe’s seats can fold completely flat, optimizing cargo space as needed. The interior echoes the exterior’s bold approach, featuring expansive flat surfaces adorned with crisp, defined edges. A gracefully curved panoramic display screen seamlessly integrates the instrument panel with a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface. Additional controls are conveniently positioned just below and in front of the central console, which includes two wireless charging pads. While specific information regarding the engines powering the new Santa Fe hasn’t been disclosed, initial photos showcase a prominent 2.5T badge, hinting at the continued use of the current model’s 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as one of the available options. The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe marks a revolutionary departure from the current model, heralding the onset of the SUV’s fifth generation with a bold and distinctive new appearance.

 

 

2024 Hyundai Palisade

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade stands as the largest SUV in the brand’s lineup, featuring three-row seating. Manufactured in South Korea alongside its corporate sibling, the Kia Telluride, the two vehicles share a common platform known for its smooth ride and robust V6 engine. Although the Telluride tends to lean towards a sportier appearance and driving experience, the Palisade has secured its place as a beloved option in a crowded segment, competing with rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer, and the new Toyota Grand Highlander.

The Palisade boasts refinement and ease of maneuverability, providing occupants with a spacious, comfortable, and upscale cabin packed with the latest technological advancements. Notably, it creates a remarkably quiet interior ambiance, making it a delightful choice for extended family road trips. While accommodating eight passengers comfortably, it’s worth mentioning that the Honda and Chevy alternatives offer more legroom in the rear seats and slightly greater cargo space behind the third row.

In this class, most buyers will appreciate the Palisade’s light steering and well-tuned independent suspension, prioritizing ride comfort over sporty handling. For those seeking a more engaging driving experience, alternatives like the Telluride, new Mazda CX-90, and recently redesigned Volkswagen Atlas provide increased driver involvement. On the other hand, if off-road capability is a priority, the Honda Pilot TrailSport and Jeep Grand Cherokee L lead the pack.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Palisade delivers competitive figures, placing it within the mid-range of a segment that’s witnessing the rise of hybrid options like the Grand Highlander.

Summing it up, the 2024 Hyundai Palisade has firmly established itself as one of our preferred three-row SUVs. It offers an exceptional blend of space, features, and value for money while standing out with its luxurious styling and character. Additionally, it comes in at a lower price point compared to some rivals and boasts the industry’s most generous warranty.

2024 Chrysler Pacifica

Once the preferred family vehicle, minivans have largely taken a back seat to the more popular crossover SUVs. It’s unfortunate because, when it comes to comfortable transportation of both people and cargo, there’s simply no better vehicle on the road. The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica stands out as a prime example of how to get it right.

With minivans becoming a rare sight in today’s market, the Pacifica finds itself in direct competition with the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Kia Carnival. What sets the Pacifica apart is its unique offering of a plug-in hybrid powertrain, giving it a notable edge. A full charge provides an impressive electric-only driving range of around 32 miles. Even after the battery is depleted, the hybrid Pacifica remains as efficient as its gas-only counterparts.

While the Pacifica Hybrid boasts its advantages, the non-hybrid variant, equipped with a V6 engine, brings its own set of strengths to the table. It offers available all-wheel drive and seating for up to eight passengers. Chrysler’s innovative Stow ‘n Go seats, a feature introduced years ago, continue in the non-hybrid Pacifica. These seats can be conveniently folded into the floor, maximizing cargo space.

Chrysler has also equipped the 2024 Pacifica with a range of convenient features and cutting-edge technology, ensuring that the minivan remains relevant in today’s ever-evolving market.

In summary, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica excels at efficiently moving both cargo and passengers within a comfortable, spacious cabin. It offers the option of a fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid powertrain and the versatility of all-wheel drive, making it a top choice in its class.

 

2024 Tesla Model Y

The 2024 Model Y stands as Tesla’s compact crossover SUV, and it played a pioneering role as one of the initial fully electric compact crossovers to grace the market. It essentially sets the standard against which all other contenders in this segment are measured, and rightfully so. The Model Y boasts ample space and a relatively comfortable ride, offers an impressive range and robust power, and is adorned with a plethora of technology features that resonate with most Tesla enthusiasts.

However, even though the Model Y holds the current gold standard in its class, traditional automakers’ competitors are rapidly narrowing the gap. This situation fuels speculation that Tesla might be gearing up to enhance the Model Y for the 2024 model year. While we’re in the realm of rumor at this stage, the enhancements are likely to encompass refreshed styling, both inside and out, along with the introduction of new or improved features. It’s worth noting that Tesla doesn’t strictly adhere to calendar years for updates, so any potential revisions could equally occur in 2023.

These updates, if they materialize, are expected to further cement the Tesla Model Y’s position as a sales leader. However, astute electric vehicle shoppers should also consider alternatives like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and newcomers such as the Chevrolet Blazer EV, as the electric vehicle landscape continues to evolve.

2024 Tesla Model 3

With its fresh, revamped appearance, an impressive estimated driving range, and an affordable price tag, the 2024 Tesla Model 3 remains a compelling choice for eco-conscious car buyers. This electric sedan disrupted the automotive landscape when it was introduced in 2017 by making electric vehicle pricing more accessible to a wider range of American households. However, it’s important to note that the Model 3 is not without its flaws. From the beginning, it has struggled with issues like subpar fit-and-finish, a compact cabin, and a standard feature list that lacks some desirable options such as Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio. Moreover, the Model 3 forgoes physical controls for nearly all functions, except for basics like the steering wheel, pedals, and window switches. Adjustments like changing the exterior mirrors or the steering column require interaction with the large infotainment screen on the dashboard. Unfortunately for Tesla, a slew of competitors has entered the electric vehicle arena, and they’re gaining ground. Vehicles like the BMW i4, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Polestar 2 offer similar packages at comparable prices with fewer trade-offs.

The 2024 Model 3 receives a welcome facelift, featuring a sleeker front end, a quieter cabin, and enhanced standard features. While the styling changes might be subtle, they have a significant impact, lending the car a fresher and more upscale appearance. Tesla has improved the quality of materials in the interior, aiming to deliver a higher level of refinement. They’ve also incorporated more sound-deadening materials and additional acoustic glass to minimize road noise. The steering wheel has been redesigned, eliminating the need for blinker and transmission-shifter stalks on the steering column. Additionally, the seats now feature a new perforated upholstery and offer ventilation for front-seat occupants. Rear-seat passengers are treated to an 8.0-inch display to control climate settings or even enjoy Netflix. We anticipate that the updated 2024 Tesla Model 3 will be available for ordering on the company’s website by the end of 2023.

2024 Ford Bronco

The return of the legendary Ford Bronco in 2021 couldn’t have been better timed. It arrived when people were yearning for outdoor escapades during pandemic lockdowns. The 2021 Bronco became an instant hit, and buyers patiently awaited their hard-to-get Broncos. Fast forward a few years, and the 2024 Bronco is more accessible but just as desirable.

Offering a staggering nine trim levels and three engine choices, the Bronco caters to a wide range of off-road enthusiasts. However, Ford bid farewell to the previous Base trim (under $37,000) and increased prices on several others, making the Bronco less attainable for some. The lineup now kicks off at $41,000 with the entry-level Big Bend trim. Despite the price adjustments, the Bronco continues to shine as our top pick among formidable off-road competitors.

Before the Bronco’s return, the Jeep Wrangler was the off-roader’s choice. The modern Bronco is equally capable off-road but excels in on-road manners, giving it a significant edge. While the Bronco may not match typical family SUVs in comfort, it’s still more comfortable than the rugged Wrangler. If you’re in search of a more luxurious adventure, the Land Rover Defender is a fantastic choice. However, we firmly believe that the 2024 Ford Bronco strikes the perfect balance among rivals in terms of price, capabilities, and comfort.

Ford has made some changes for the 2024 Bronco. The previous Base trim is now replaced by the Big Bend as the new entry-level model. A generous 12-inch infotainment touchscreen is now standard across all Bronco models, and the Badlands trim receives a heavy-duty bumper. There’s also a new Code Orange appearance package for the Bronco Raptor model.

The 2024 Ford Bronco offers an extensive lineup, including Big Bend, Black Diamond, Heritage Edition, Outer Banks, Badlands, Everglades, Wildtrak, Heritage Limited Edition, and Raptor. All models are available as two- or four-doors with removable roofs and doors.

Under the hood, the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine generates an impressive 300 horsepower and 315 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a choice of a seven-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission, featuring a specialized crawl gear for serious off-roading. The Bronco delivers ample power for highway driving and off-road adventures, providing the control needed for challenging terrain.

For those seeking more power, the available 2.7-liter V6, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, produces 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine enhances the Bronco’s off-road capabilities, ensuring you stay in control while tackling aggressive terrain. The high-speed desert-racing trim, the Raptor, boasts a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with a whopping 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque.

With standard four-wheel drive and features like trail turn assist and trail one-pedal drive, the Bronco is a breeze to take off-road. It effortlessly conquers water, slick rocks, and deep mud. On the road, it maintains off-roading manners, resulting in a bouncier ride compared to conventional SUVs, with some wind noise when the soft-top is on. While it may not match sedans in high-speed stability and cornering, it significantly outperforms the Jeep Wrangler.

The Jeep Wrangler offers a plug-in hybrid option for quiet off-road experiences, but its on-road ride is relatively rough, with vague steering. The Toyota 4Runner has a standard V6 with lower horsepower and torque than even the base Bronco engine, but it offers a smoother on-road experience.

Fuel efficiency in the 2024 Bronco varies depending on the configuration. The EPA estimates that the 2.3-liter engine will deliver 20 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, regardless of the transmission type. The Badlands trim with this engine returns 17/17 mpg city/highway with the automatic transmission or 16/17 mpg with the manual. The Black Diamond achieves 18 mpg city/highway with the automatic or 16/18 mpg with the manual. Opting for the 2.7-liter engine results in 19/21 mpg. The Badlands trim with this engine gets 17/17 mpg city/highway, while the Black Diamond achieves 18/18 mpg. The Raptor, equipped with the 3.0-liter V6, returns 15/16 mpg on the highway.

The Jeep Wrangler offers similar fuel economy figures but takes the lead, especially with its 4Xe plug-in hybrid version, returning 20 mpg combined or 49 MPGe. The Toyota 4Runner has comparable efficiency to the Bronco, with returns of 16/19 mpg.

The 2024 Ford Bronco accommodates four passengers in the two-door model or five in the four-door. The two-door’s rear seats are snug and somewhat challenging to access, suitable for occasional use. The four-door provides better rear-seat comfort, making it ideal for regular passenger transport. While the front seats offer comfort for long journeys, the rear seats are somewhat stiff.

With removable doors and roof, the Bronco’s interior is prone to getting dirty. The marine-grade vinyl seats are a practical choice for muddy off-road adventures. Both the soft- and hardtops may produce squeaks and creaks when driving over bumps, which can be irritating on lengthy road trips.

Despite its off-road practicality, the Bronco boasts an attractive interior with available amenities like heated seats and leather trims for those seeking a touch of luxury. The Jeep Wrangler, with its removable roof and doors and flip-down windshield, strikes a good balance between comfort and durability. The Toyota 4Runner offers more rear-passenger space and comfort.

Cargo capacity in the Bronco varies based on the body style and top type. The maximum cargo space is found in the four-door soft-top model, providing 83 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. In comparison, the four-door Wrangler Unlimited offers a maximum of 72.4 cubic feet, while the 4Runner tops the charts with 89.7 cubic feet.

Standard infotainment features for the 2024 Ford Bronco include a 12-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual smart-charging USB ports in the first and second rows, and AM/FM/SiriusXM radio. Available upgrades include enhanced voice recognition, navigation, a wireless charging pad, and a premium 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The touchscreen is responsive, with well-organized menus to minimize distraction. Standard wireless smartphone connectivity reduces cable clutter, and the upgraded audio system delivers high-quality sound.

With its 2024 updates, every Jeep Wrangler now boasts a 12.3-inch UConnect 5 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Toyota 4Runner features an 8-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In conclusion, the 2024 Ford Bronco offers a robust lineup that caters to off-road enthusiasts of all levels. It exceeds expectations in all-terrain performance while maintaining a well-behaved demeanor during everyday driving.

2024 Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a workhorse. In 2024, it’s a modern marvel for truck enthusiasts. Under its hood, you’ll find a lineup of turbocharged engines, and there’s even a hybrid option for the eco-conscious buyer. While the classic V-8 is still available, most F-150s now sport a turbocharged EcoBoost V-6, offering power and efficiency.

Step inside the cabin, and you’ll be greeted by a 12.0-inch infotainment display standard on every model. For those willing to invest in a monthly subscription, there’s a hands-free driving feature that can make your highway journeys more relaxing.

With the average new car price at a staggering $48,000, choosing the right vehicle is crucial, says automotive sector analyst Lauren Fix. She advises against falling for extended loan terms of 72 or 84 months, which can lead to financial trouble.

However, not all 2023 models are worth your hard-earned money. Some fall short in their segments.

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

Introducing the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, set to arrive at dealerships this summer as the latest and most impressive addition to Toyota’s successful SUV lineup. This remarkable vehicle offers a choice of three powertrains across three different grades, catering to a wide range of preferences. You can opt for the well-balanced 2.4L turbo gas engine, the efficient 2.5L hybrid, or the ultimate performance-oriented 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX, ensuring that the Grand Highlander is perfectly suited for your upcoming road adventures.

Crafted with precision and designed by the experts at Calty Design Studios, the 2024 Grand Highlander is exclusively assembled at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Princeton, Indiana. It comes with a starting MSRP of $43,070 for the gas engine models, $44,670 for the hybrid, and $54,040 for the Hybrid MAX powertrain, making it a highly competitive choice when it arrives at dealerships this summer.

According to Lisa Materazzo, the Group Vice President of Toyota Marketing, the Grand Highlander is poised to be the ultimate tool that can seamlessly transition from everyday tasks like school pick-ups to epic long-weekend road trips. With over 3.3 million Highlanders sold in the U.S. and a strong customer base, the Grand Highlander is expected to receive similar praise when it arrives this summer.

As part of Toyota’s commitment to carbon neutrality, the Grand Highlander Hybrid and Hybrid MAX are designed to support Toyota’s “Beyond Zero” future vision, striving for carbon neutrality in products, services, and operations, while making a positive impact on the planet and society.

Toyota is leading the way in reducing carbon emissions by offering customers a selection of 15 electrified vehicles to choose from. This includes 11 hybrid models, two plug-in hybrid models, the bZ4X battery electric vehicle, and the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric Mirai, currently available in California. Toyota stands out as the automaker with the most extensive range of low and zero-emission vehicles, providing customers with ample choices to reduce their carbon footprint.

The Grand Highlander doesn’t make you choose between performance and efficiency; it offers both. The gas engine boasts 265 horsepower with a 0-60 time of 7.5 seconds for front-wheel drive, while the hybrid powertrain offers 245 horsepower with a 0-60 time of 7.8 seconds for all-wheel drive. Notably, the Hybrid MAX powertrain elevates the Grand Highlander to become the most powerful midsize SUV Toyota has ever created. With a staggering 362 horsepower, 400 pound-feet of torque, and a 0-60 time of 6.3 seconds, it offers impressive performance off the line. Additionally, the Hybrid MAX powertrain boasts a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.

In terms of efficiency, the gas powertrain achieves an EPA-estimated 24 combined MPG for XLE FWD, while the hybrid powertrain delivers an EPA-estimated 36 combined MPG for the XLE FWD. The HYBRID MAX variant achieves an EPA-estimated 27 combined MPG.

All three powertrains come with three Drive Modes (Sport, Eco, Normal) to make your driving experience more engaging. The gas AWD and Hybrid MAX powertrains offer Multi-Terrain Select with three modes (Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, Snow) for enhanced on and off-road capabilities.

Moreover, you have the flexibility to equip all powertrains with all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option for the gas engine and hybrid, or as a standard feature for the powerful Hybrid MAX.

The Grand Highlander’s AWD systems are designed for optimum performance. Dynamic Torque Control AWD on gas models actively distributes torque between the front and rear axles, including the two rear wheels, enhancing traction and driving stability. The hybrid models utilize Electronic On-Demand AWD, providing superb fuel efficiency, start-off acceleration, handling, and stability. This system ensures stable performance by driving the rear wheels with an electric motor, offering traction when needed in slippery conditions. The distribution of driving force between front and rear wheels is precisely controlled to achieve optimal fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience. For Hybrid MAX, the Full-Time Electronic AWD system offers an exhilarating experience with impeccable controllability. Power is delivered to the front and rear wheels via a front-mounted hybrid motor and a rear-mounted eAxle electric motor, paired with a direct-shift six-speed automatic transmission. This system supports stable AWD performance and provides satisfying acceleration. Full-Time Electronic All-Wheel Drive can adjust between a 70:30 and 20:80 front-to-rear wheel power split, depending on the driving situation. This new AWD system enhances rear-wheel drive maneuverability, straight-line stability, and responsive acceleration.

The Grand Highlander features an exterior design that is both distinctive and aesthetically pleasing, complemented by a spacious interior that spans all three rows. The front design draws inspiration from the Highlander, reimagined with a trapezoidal, hammerhead front grille and the availability of striking 20-inch wheels.

The elegance continues to the rear with a sharp rear bumper, and the Hybrid MAX powertrain adds a touch of flair with standard exposed dual exhaust tips. The exterior design is not only beautiful but also functional. Wide rear doors provide excellent access to the third-row seats, and the side profile flows seamlessly from the doors through the fenders to the front and rear tires, creating a dynamic yet simple design. For the Hybrid MAX grades, unique bumpers and black-accented two-tone wheels are offered, adding a premium touch. Exterior visibility is a priority, with a low hood line and large side glass windows instilling confidence when driving in urban environments.

Inside the Grand Highlander, thoughtful design and spaciousness abound. The soft-padded instrument panel floats above wood-effect ornamentation that extends into the door trim, with a functional tray shape seamlessly integrated between them. The instrument panel design flows into the door trim to emphasize the width of the cockpit, and the center console features independent driver and passenger side armrests, ensuring comfort whether the console lid is open or closed. High-quality stitchwork adds a touch of modern and refined elegance.

Drivers will relish the available leather-trimmed seats with 10-way power driver and 8-way passenger adjustments on Limited and Platinum grades. Exclusive to the Hybrid MAX, drivers will indulge in Ultrasuede® and leather-trimmed seats with bronze-colored accents throughout the cabin.

Additionally, for third-row passengers, there are two left/right individual USB ports, smartphone/tablet storage space, and two cup & bottle holders, catering to various usage scenarios. Enhanced accessibility is provided with a support grip and a hand support space for easy ingress and egress.

The Grand Highlander is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including Toyota’s Traffic Jam Assist technology on the Platinum grade. This radar and camera-based system helps alleviate the stress of stop-and-go traffic on limited access roadways by managing steering, gas, and brake pedals at speeds between 0-25 mph under specific conditions.

Standard in the Grand Highlander is a 12.3-inch touchscreen showcasing Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system, meticulously designed and engineered by Toyota’s Texas-based software teams. Users can interact with the system through intuitive touch and voice-activated commands. With the available one-year Drive Connect trial subscription, drivers and passengers gain access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Intelligent Assistant responds to simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” for voice-activated commands, including searching for directions, adjusting audio controls, changing cabin temperature, and more. Cloud Navigation utilizes the latest map, traffic, and routing information, including a POI search powered by Google. Drivers can also utilize Destination Assist, providing 24/7 access to live agents.

The Grand Highlander offers Bluetooth® phone connectivity, enabling wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. It also includes Wi-Fi Connect with a one-month trial subscription, transforming the Grand Highlander into an AT&T Hotspot for up to five devices. Furthermore, Over-the-Air (OTA) updates enhance the multimedia experience.

Audiophiles will appreciate the available JBL® Premium Audio system with 11 speakers, delivering a concert-like audio experience. Safety features include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking (Limited and Platinum grades), and a Panoramic View Monitor for low-speed maneuvering, combining front, side, and rear cameras for a comprehensive overhead view.

Convenience features are abundant, including a heated steering wheel and power folding mirrors (Limited and Platinum), heated and ventilated seats, 1,500-watt power outlets (Hybrid and Hybrid Max on Limited and Platinum), and a hands-free power liftgate (Limited and Platinum).

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander promises to redefine the SUV segment with its compelling combination of power, efficiency, sophisticated design, spacious interior, and cutting-edge technology. It reflects Toyota’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence, setting new standards for the road ahead.

2023 Honda Ridgeline

Honda’s sole pickup model, the Ridgeline, persists in its challenge against its more conventionally designed midsize truck counterparts, amalgamating robust capability with a level of comfort akin to that of cars. Now entrenched within its second generation, the Ridgeline stands alone as the singular midsize pickup featuring unibody construction and an independent rear suspension — attributes it shares with the Honda Passport SUV. Notably, each Ridgeline variant comes equipped with a spacious four-door crew cab, all-wheel drive, and a commanding V6 engine.

In stark contrast, all other midsize pickups, encompassing the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Jeep Gladiator, and Ford Ranger, adhere to the traditional body-on-frame construction, complemented by a solid-axle rear end. Consequently, these models proffer heightened off-road capability and towing prowess in comparison to the Ridgeline. However, Honda’s offering is distinct in its refined and comfortable road presence, presenting a driving experience reminiscent of crossovers. Its ride quality, handling prowess, and cabin space align more closely with those of a crossover. For a significant portion of buyers, this translates into a commendable trade-off, and an increasing number of automakers are embracing this trend.

While they may be smaller than the Ridgeline, the recently introduced Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick serve as further instances of crossover-based pickups. They opt to prioritize comfort over sheer capability, akin to the Ridgeline’s approach.