2024 Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler has always been synonymous with off-road prowess, and the 2024 model continues to uphold this tradition with significant updates. The Wrangler’s body-on-frame construction and front and rear solid axles supported by a flexible coil spring suspension make it an exceptional vehicle for slow-speed off-road adventures.For 2024, the Wrangler Rubicon model stands out with its locking front and rear differentials, an ultra-low-geared two-speed transfer case for four-wheel drive, and a front sway bar that can detach at the push of a button. The Rubicon X and Rubicon 392 models, both equipped with 35-inch tires, ensure that the Wrangler can conquer any trail. Additionally, an optional 8,000-pound-capacity front-mounted Warn winch is available, providing a valuable tool for rescuing vehicles stuck in tough off-road situations. The updated Willys model, while not as advanced as the Rubicon, still offers solid off-road performance with its electronic locking rear differential and 33-inch tires.

The 2024 Wrangler also sees notable interior improvements, making it a more comfortable daily driver. New features include a 12.3-inch infotainment system and power-adjustable front seats, enhancing the overall driving experience.

**Positives:**
– Exceptional off-road capability
– Extensive options for customization
– Distinctive style and driving experience

**Considerations:**
– Higher price for the most desirable models
– Less refined on-road driving experience compared to other SUVs
– Earlier models have weaker reliability ratings compared to some competitors

The 2024 Wrangler gets a minor facelift with a new front grille and an antenna embedded into the windshield for a cleaner look. Jeep has added ten new wheel designs and trimmed the lineup to eight models, including two new ones: Sport S 4xe and Rubicon X. The Rubicon models now feature a new full-floating rear axle, increasing off-road durability and boosting tow ratings on certain models to 5,000 pounds. The 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system is now standard across all models, along with side curtain airbags for front and rear passengers. For the first time, Wranglers can be equipped with power front seats, and noise-canceling measures have been introduced to make the cabin quieter. The diesel model has been discontinued, but Willys models now come with taller 33-inch tires and a standard electronic locking rear differential. The 4xe models have been improved for better battery regeneration and can be equipped with a 30-amp Power Box to export power to four 120-volt outlets.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler is available in two body styles: two-door and four-door Unlimited. Trim levels include Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, Rubicon X, and Rubicon 392. The Wrangler also offers six plug-in hybrid variants: Sport 4xe, Willys 4xe, Sahara 4xe, Rubicon 4xe, Rubicon X 4xe, and High Altitude 4xe.

– **Sport:** Starts at $33,690
– **Sport S:** Starts at $37,190
– **Willys:** Starts at $41,190
– **Sahara:** Starts at $49,620
– **Rubicon:** Starts at $47,190
– **Rubicon X:** Starts at $56,690
– **Sport S 4xe, Willys 4xe, Sahara 4xe, Rubicon 4xe, High Altitude 4xe, and Rubicon X 4xe:** Prices range from $51,790 to $70,860
– **Rubicon 392:** Starts at $89,390

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offers a variety of powertrains, including:
– **Standard:** 285-hp 3.6-liter V6 with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission
– **Optional:** 270-hp turbocharged four-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic
– **Rubicon 392:** 470-hp 6.4-liter V8, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds
– **4xe Plug-in Hybrid:** Combines two electric motors, a high-voltage battery pack, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission

The 2024 Wrangler’s fuel efficiency varies based on the engine:
– **2.0-liter four-cylinder:** 22/24 mpg city/highway
– **V6 engine:** 20/24 mpg city/highway
– **Rubicon 392 V8:** 13/17 mpg
– **4xe Plug-in Hybrid:** 20 mpg combined or 49 MPGe

The Wrangler’s interior remains compact, especially in the two-door model, but the four-door Unlimited offers more space for longer trips. Despite the improvements for 2024, such as the removal of the mast-style antenna and new insulating measures, the Wrangler is still noisier on highways compared to traditional SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner.

The 2024 Wrangler features a new 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa virtual assistant, and customizable user profiles. The infotainment system includes digital gauges and off-road tech pages, and remains visible even with the top and doors removed. An eight-speaker audio system is standard, with a premium nine-speaker system available.

The 2024 Wrangler has yet to be rated by NHTSA or IIHS, but it includes several driver aids and safety systems. The optional Jeep Active Safety Group offers rear parking assist and blind-spot monitoring, while the Jeep Advanced Safety Group includes adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning.

The Wrangler excels in slow-speed off-roading and is highly customizable. However, competitors like the Ford Bronco offer a smoother ride and more refinement for high-speed off-road and on-road driving, while the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro provides a well-rounded alternative.

2025 Toyota Camry

The 2025 Toyota Camry marks the ninth generation of this popular sedan, though it’s more of a mild facelift than a complete redesign. Starting under $30,000, it retains the same dimensions and many features of its predecessor. The exterior gets a modern update with revised front and rear fascias and new color options. The major change is the switch to an all-hybrid lineup, dropping both the base four-cylinder gas engine and the optional V6. The new hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, offering 225 horsepower for front-wheel-drive models and 232 horsepower for all-wheel-drive versions. The suspension has been retuned for better responsiveness, but no major mechanical changes were made.

The interior remains largely unchanged, with a few new colors and updated seat designs for added comfort. The latest infotainment systems include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as over-the-air updates. Trim levels are simplified to four options: LE, SE, XLE, and XSE, with the TRD performance model discontinued. Key competitors include the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata, both offering hybrid and non-hybrid options along with performance variants.

### Positives
– Standard fuel-efficient hybrid drivetrain
– All-wheel drive available on all trims
– Spacious cabin with extensive high-tech features

### Considerations
– No high-powered V6 option
– Fewer trims to choose from

### Verdict
The 2025 Camry focuses on efficiency with its all-hybrid lineup, providing a more economical yet less thrilling driving experience.

### What’s New for 2025
– New front and rear styling
– Hybrid-only drivetrains
– Simplified trim levels
– Updated interior and safety features

### Trims and Pricing
– **LE**: $29,495, includes 16-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch infotainment screen, and comprehensive safety features.
– **SE**: $31,795, adds a sportier suspension, 18-inch black alloy wheels, and black exterior accents.
– **XLE**: $34,495, features 18-inch wheels, upgraded headlights, rain-sensing wipers, leather seats, and more advanced technology.
– **XSE**: $35,695, includes special 19-inch wheels, dual exhaust tips, and additional luxury features.

### Engine and Performance
All 2025 Camry models come with a hybrid setup, pairing a 2.5-liter gas engine with electric motors. Front-wheel-drive models offer 225 horsepower, while all-wheel-drive models provide 232 horsepower. The suspension has been retuned for improved performance, especially on the SE and XSE trims.

### Fuel Economy and Range
– **Front-wheel-drive LE**: Estimated 53 mpg city / 51 mpg highway
– **All-wheel-drive LE**: Estimated 51/50 mpg city/highway
– **Front-wheel-drive SE, XSE, XLE**: Estimated 48/47 mpg city/highway
– **All-wheel-drive SE, XLE**: Estimated 46 mpg combined
– **All-wheel-drive XSE**: Estimated 44 mpg combined

### Interior
The 2025 Camry’s interior features new color options and redesigned seats for better comfort. The XLE trim offers a mix of leather and suede-like seat trim, while the XSE gets full leather. Both trims include advanced tech features like a 12.3-inch gauge cluster, ambient lighting, and an optional head-up display. Trunk space remains at 15.1 cubic feet.

### Infotainment and Connectivity
– **LE and SE**: Standard 8-inch touchscreen
– **XLE and XSE**: Upgraded 12.3-inch touchscreen
Both systems include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB ports, and available Wi-Fi. The XLE and XSE can upgrade to a premium nine-speaker JBL audio system.

### Safety
Standard safety features include pre-collision with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, lane-keeping assist, radar cruise control, road sign assist, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and braking. Optional features include traffic jam assist, front cross-traffic alert, lane-change assist, and a 360-degree parking camera.

### Toyota Camry vs. the Competition
The 2025 Camry’s switch to an all-hybrid lineup makes it highly fuel-efficient but less powerful compared to rivals like the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata, which offer both hybrid and non-hybrid options. The newly refreshed Kia K5 also competes with hybrid and performance-oriented trims.

2025 Mazda CX-70

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 is a two-row, five-passenger SUV positioned between the smaller CX-50 and the larger three-row CX-90 in Mazda’s lineup. The key distinction from the CX-90 is the CX-70’s lack of a third row, enhancing cargo efficiency. Despite their similarity, Mazda markets the CX-70 as a separate model.

Mechanically identical to the CX-90, the CX-70 offers three powertrains: two turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engines with mild hybrid systems and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. The PHEV provides about 25 miles of electric-only range. Aesthetic differences include black wheel arch flares for hybrids and body-colored flares for the PHEV. The CX-70’s weight is nearly the same as the CX-90, ensuring similar ride and handling.

The CX-70’s primary advantage is its expanded cargo space due to the absence of a third row. This model features power-folding rear seats and an increased width towards the rear, offering more storage, including a new sub-trunk area.

The CX-70 competes with both luxury SUVs like the BMW X5, Acura MDX, and Genesis GV80, as well as midsize models like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Known for its excellent handling, the CX-70 outperforms the Hyundai and Jeep in this regard.

### Positives
– Well-crafted interior
– Choice of gas or PHEV powertrains
– Smart storage features in the cargo area

### Considerations
– No fully electric model
– Minimal off-road capability
– Essentially a two-row CX-90

### Verdict
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 offers sporty driving dynamics and enhanced cargo space, positioning itself as a practical yet stylish option in Mazda’s SUV lineup.

### What’s New for 2025
The CX-70 is a new model for 2025, expanding Mazda’s midsize SUV offerings.

### Trims and Pricing
– **Preferred**: $41,900; features 280-hp turbo engine, 19-inch wheels, leather seats, and advanced safety tech.
– **Premium**: $47,355; adds 5,000-pound towing capacity, 12.3-inch driver display, Bose audio, and more.
– **Premium Plus**: $50,355; includes surround-view camera, Nappa leather, and more luxury features.
– **S Premium**: $53,905; 340-hp turbo engine, 21-inch wheels, and panoramic sunroof.
– **S Premium Plus**: $57,405; adds windshield de-icer, quilted leather, and two-tone steering wheel.
– **Plug-In Hybrid Premium**: $55,855; 322-hp PHEV powertrain, 25 miles electric range, and enhanced driving modes.
– **Plug-In Hybrid Premium Plus**: $58,905; includes additional luxury features like ventilated seats and surround-view camera.

### Engine and Performance
The standard 3.3-liter inline-six engine comes in two power levels: 280 hp and 340 hp. Both offer excellent handling and responsive steering. The PHEV version pairs a 2.5-liter engine with a 100-kW electric motor, providing 325 hp and 25 miles of electric range.

### Fuel Economy and Range
– **Standard Turbo**: 24 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
– **Turbo S**: 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
– **PHEV**: 56 MPGe with 25 miles electric range

### Interior
The CX-70 shares its high-quality interior with the CX-90, featuring comfortable seating, premium materials, and ample cargo space. It offers 29.9 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the second row, expandable to 58.6 cubic feet.

### Infotainment and Connectivity
Standard 12.3-inch display, not touchscreen; operated via knob and buttons. Features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Some may find the system less intuitive compared to competitors.

### Safety
While not yet tested (as of this original posting), it likely mirrors the CX-90’s high safety ratings. Standard features include smart brake support, blind-spot monitoring, radar cruise control, and more.

### Mazda CX-70 vs. the Competition
The CX-70 offers a blend of sporty handling and practical cargo space. It competes well with luxury SUVs like the BMW X5 and Acura MDX, offering a balance of performance and value, while also standing out among midsize SUVs like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

2025 Honda Civic

The 2025 Honda Civic Sedan is hitting dealerships this week (June 12, 2024), and it’s bringing along a new member to the family—the Civic Hybrid, which will be available next week. Let’s dive into what makes this refreshed Civic lineup so special.

First up, the 2025 Civic builds on the success of its award-winning 11th generation, known for its practicality, value, and driving fun. This year, Honda has upped the ante with enhanced styling, new technology, and a powerful, efficient hybrid-electric powertrain. For the first time, the hybrid variant is available as both a sedan and a hatchback, expected to account for about 40% of Civic sales—an essential step in Honda’s electrification strategy.

The 2025 Civic Sedan is offered in four trim levels: LX, Sport, Sport Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid. The base LX starts at an MSRP of $24,250, while the Sport Hybrid begins at $28,750. Honda’s Vice President of Auto Sales, Lance Woelfer, mentioned that the new Civic will inject fresh energy into the market, capturing more than 25% of the compact segment.

The new Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid trims follow the footsteps of the Accord and CR-V hybrids, featuring Honda’s powerful two-motor hybrid-electric system. With 232 lb.-ft of torque, these are the most powerful Civics ever, excluding the Type R, offering quicker acceleration and impressive EPA fuel economy ratings of 50 mpg city and 49 mpg combined.

Honda has fine-tuned the ride and handling dynamics of the Civic Hybrid with unique spring and damper tuning and specially-developed tires. The hybrids also feature the lowest NVH levels in the lineup, thanks to a robust noise reduction package.

Safety remains a priority with the Honda Sensing® suite, standard on all Civic models. For 2025, enhancements include better system visibility for motorcycles and bicycles, and smoother functions for Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist. All Sport models now come with a blind spot information system and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The Civic lineup continues to be a gateway to the Honda brand, especially popular among Gen Z, first-time buyers, and multicultural customers. The refreshed Civic Hatchback, including the first-ever Hybrid Hatchback, will arrive later this summer. Keep an eye out for updates on the 2025 Civic Type R and Civic Si in the coming months.

Now, let’s talk value. Every 2025 Civic features enhanced exterior styling with a new, aggressive front fascia and grille, and darker taillights for a sharper look. The new, more powerful hybrid trims get distinct styling cues, including a body-colored headlamp garnish and front lower spoiler.

The best-selling Sport trim is now available with a refined 2.0-liter engine or the 200 hp hybrid-electric powertrain. All Sport trims come with dark trim, black 18-inch alloy wheels, a moonroof, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. The top-of-the-line Sport Touring Hybrid adds exclusive machine-finished wheels, leather seating, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Four new bold colors—Solar Silver Metallic, Urban Gray Pearl, Blue Lagoon Pearl (exclusive to the sedan), and Sand Dune Pearl (exclusive to the hatchback)—enhance the Civic’s appearance. Inside, the refreshed interior now offers a new gray color option for hybrids and standard front USB-C ports.

The Honda Sensing® suite includes advanced safety features like Collision Mitigation Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and more. All Civics are built with Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ body structure for enhanced safety in various collisions.

The 2025 Honda Civic is more than just a car—it’s a statement of reliability, efficiency, and innovation. So, if you’re in the market for a new car, the 2025 Civic should definitely be on your radar.

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz

Full-size pickup trucks are the bestsellers in the U.S., but many shoppers don’t need their immense capability or want to deal with their lower fuel efficiency. Hyundai saw an opportunity here and filled the gap with the compact Santa Cruz, which blends the comfort and capability of a compact SUV with the utility of an open cargo bed.

The Santa Cruz, along with the Ford Maverick, has reignited interest in smaller trucks. While they can’t tow or haul as much as full-size models, small pickups offer significant benefits:
– Easier to maneuver
– More fuel-efficient
– More fun to drive
– Less expensive

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a choice of two engines, front- or all-wheel drive, and various trim levels, making it versatile enough to serve as a budget-friendly pickup or a loaded lifestyle vehicle.

For those seeking something between a compact and a full-size truck, the Honda Ridgeline is a solid midsize alternative.

**Positives:
– Potent turbocharged engine
– Clever pickup bed features
– Comfortable and confident ride

**Considerations:
– Compromised rear-passenger comfort
– Small utility bed

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz combines the best attributes of a compact SUV with the utility of a pickup. While it’s not as capable as a full-size truck, it provides an excellent combination of comfort and capability for those who only need occasional utility.

What’s New for 2024

– SEL Premium trim dropped
– New XRT model with more features
– Larger infotainment touchscreen and dual-zone climate control available
– Upgraded LED headlights on all models
– Haptic feedback for some safety features

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz is available in five trim levels: SE, SEL, Night, XRT, and Limited. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are offered on SE and SEL trims, while the Night, SEL Premium, and Limited trims are all-wheel drive only. The SEL trim is the most popular and recommended for its value.

**SE ($27,985)**: Multifunctional tailgate, composite bed, lockable under-bed storage, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, 8-inch touchscreen, cloth upholstery, and remote keyless entry. AWD adds $1,500.

**SEL ($30,735)**: Heated mirrors, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, SiriusXM, and Blue Link connectivity. Optional lockable truck-bed tonneau.

**Night ($39,545)**: Turbocharged engine, AWD, dark-toned 20-inch wheels, dark trim, skid plates, and side steps.

**XRT ($41,185)**: Features from SEL with Activity package (roof rails, sunroof, sliding rear window, power outlet in truck bed, utility cargo cleats and tracks, LED bed lighting, 10.25-inch touchscreen, digital instrument panel, and wireless charging pad), turbocharged engine, AWD, adaptive cruise control, wider fender flares, and digital key features.

**Limited ($42,405)**: Leather-trimmed seats, ventilated front seats, 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, Bose audio system, and dual USB outlets in the backseat. AWD only.

The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, available on higher trims, generates 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine provides strong acceleration and excellent handling, making the Santa Cruz fun to drive.

– **Turbocharged engine with AWD**: Tows up to 5,000 pounds
– **Standard engine**: Tows up to 3,500 pounds with FWD or AWD
– **Maximum payload for SE**: 1,753 pounds
– **FWD Limited payload**: 1,521 pounds

– **Standard engine (FWD)**: 22/26 mpg city/highway
– **Standard engine (AWD)**: 21/26 mpg city/highway
– **Turbo engine**: 19/27 mpg city/highway

The Santa Cruz offers nearly identical passenger volume to the Ford Maverick. It features flip-up 60/40-split rear seats for additional storage and a lockable under-bed storage area. The truck bed, while smaller than the Maverick’s, provides versatile utility.

Standard 8-inch touchscreen on SE and SEL trims. A 10.25-inch touchscreen is included with the SEL’s optional Activity package and is standard on higher trims. Features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose audio system on Limited trims, and dual USB ports.

The 2024 Santa Cruz is equipped with standard safety features like forward-collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, rear occupant alert, and driver attention warning. Uplevel models offer blind-spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, and safe exit warning. New haptic feedback enhances safety alerts.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick both blaze the trail for modern small pickups. While the Maverick leans towards utility and efficiency, the Santa Cruz offers a fun driving experience and excellent interior quality, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and comfortable compact pickup.

2024 Honda Passport

The 2024 Honda Passport is one of Honda’s largest and most off-road capable SUVs, positioned between the CR-V and the three-row Pilot. Built in Alabama, the Passport blends refined road manners, sporty dynamics, and formidable off-road performance. It comes standard with Honda’s advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, ensuring excellent traction on trails and in snowy conditions.

1. **Enhanced Off-Road Capability**: The TrailSport trim now includes all-terrain tires and a retuned suspension for improved off-road performance.
2. **Spacious and Comfortable Interior**: The Passport offers one of the largest rear seats and cargo areas in its segment, making it ideal for families and adventurers.
3. **Powerful V6 Engine**: The 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine provides quick acceleration and responsive handling.
4. **New Black Edition Trim**: This trim replaces the Elite, featuring black 20-inch wheels, a black grille, and premium interior features.
5. **Updated Infotainment System**: While the system is user-friendly, it lags behind some competitors in terms of screen size and advanced features.

– **EX-L ($43,275)**: Comes with essential features such as 20-inch wheels, LED headlights, leather upholstery, and a suite of driver aids.
– **TrailSport ($45,875)**: Adds rugged off-road features, including a trail-ready suspension, all-terrain tires, and unique styling elements.
– **Black Edition ($49,345)**: Includes luxurious features like ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and distinctive black and red interior accents.

The Passport’s V6 engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, offers a smooth and powerful driving experience. It is one of the quickest crossovers in its class, with a 0-60 mph time of just over 6 seconds. Fuel efficiency is average for the segment, with EPA ratings of 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

The Passport shares its functional and well-organized interior design with the Honda Ridgeline. It features spacious and supportive bucket seats, a large center console, and ample storage space. The cargo area is one of the largest in its class, with 50.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 100.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The Passport’s infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offer navigation and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. While the system is intuitive, it is smaller and less advanced than those in some competitors.

The 2024 Honda Passport comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It has not yet been rated for safety in 2024, but the 2023 model received high marks from the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2024 Honda Passport is an excellent choice for buyers seeking a versatile and roomy five-passenger crossover. It combines daily driving comfort with adventure-ready utility, making it a smart choice in the midsize SUV market. While it may not be as fuel-efficient as some competitors, its blend of features, space, and off-road capability make it a standout option.

2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is designed with the idea that there’s a truck for everyone. Offering hundreds of configurations, this full-size pickup caters to a wide range of needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a regular cab with a short or long bed, an extended double cab, or the spacious crew cab, the Silverado has you covered. You can choose between two- or four-wheel drive and select from nine different trim levels, ranging from the base-level WT (work truck) to the luxurious High Country and the off-road ready ZR2.

The Silverado 1500 comes with four different engine choices:
1. 2.7-liter turbo
2. 5.3-liter V8
3. 6.2-liter V8
4. High-torque 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel

Chevrolet has equipped the Silverado 1500 with a host of innovations, including the Multi-Flex tailgate, which offers six different functions and power up/down functionality. The High Country trim now features SuperCruise, GM’s advanced hands-free autonomous driving system.

Towing is a key reason for purchasing a full-size truck, and the Silverado 1500 excels in this area. The trailering package is now standard on almost all trims (optional on WT) and includes a hitch receiver and rear-view hitch guidance for easy trailer hookup. An integrated trailer brake is also available.

The Silverado 1500’s infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on all trims. The intuitive interface makes navigation and connectivity a breeze.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 faces competition from the GMC Sierra 1500, Ram 1500, and Ford F-150. Each of these trucks brings its own strengths to the table, but the Silverado stands out with its versatility and range of options.

For 2024, the Silverado 1500 sees several updates:
– New Midnight Edition on the High Country trim
– Duramax Diesel availability on the ZR2 trim
– Blackout Appearance package on most trim levels
– Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the base WT trim

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is available in nine trim levels:
1. WT ($38,695): Basic work truck with essential features.
2. Custom ($45,495): Adds more comfort and convenience.
3. LT ($49,895): Our recommended pick for its range of options.
4. RST ($53,295): Sporty appearance and enhanced features.
5. Custom Trail Boss ($53,695): Off-road oriented with additional capabilities.
6. LTZ ($59,095): Adds luxury touches and advanced features.
7. LT Trail Boss ($59,895): Combines off-road capabilities with luxury.
8. High Country ($64,595): Top-tier luxury and advanced technology.
9. ZR2 ($71,795): Ultimate off-road performance with unique features.

The base engine is a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options include:
– 5.3-liter V8 (355 hp, 383 lb-ft)
– 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft)
– 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel (277 hp, 460 lb-ft)

The Silverado 1500 boasts a maximum tow rating of 13,300 pounds and a maximum payload rating of 2,270 pounds when properly equipped. While these figures are slightly lower than those of the Ford F-150, the Silverado offers advanced trailer camera technology and a versatile tailgate for easier truck bed access.

The Silverado’s fuel economy is competitive, with expected figures similar to the 2023 model:
– 2.7-liter turbo (4WD): 18/21 mpg city/highway
– 5.3-liter V8 (4WD): 16/20 mpg
– 6.2-liter V8 (4WD): 16/20 mpg
– 3.0-liter diesel (4WD): 22/27 mpg
– ZR2 model: 14/17 mpg

The Silverado’s interior is spacious and well-laid-out, even in the two-door regular-cab models. Higher trims offer premium cloth or leather seating and a large center console for storage. While it lacks the high-quality materials found in the Ford F-150, it provides a comfortable and functional environment.

Starting with the LT trim, the Silverado features a 13.4-inch touchscreen, with options for a seven-speaker Bose audio system, wireless device charging, and onboard Wi-Fi. The infotainment system is clean and uncluttered, making it easy to find key features.

Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, front pedestrian braking, and lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning. Optional features include front and rear park assist, lane-change alert with side blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic braking, and trailer blind-spot alert.

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers a wide range of trims, engines, and features, making it a versatile and capable choice for any truck buyer. Whether you need a workhorse, a luxurious daily driver, or an off-road beast, the Silverado 1500 has a configuration to suit your needs.

2024 Chevrolet Colorado

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Chevy’s midsize pickup truck lineup, building upon the success of its previous generations. Introduced last year, this latest iteration boasts a refreshed design, enhanced interior space, and formidable performance capabilities, making it a compelling option for truck enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Available in five distinct trim levels, including off-road-focused variants such as the ZR2 and ZR2 Bison, the Colorado caters to a diverse range of preferences and driving needs. From its striking exterior design to its well-appointed interior, the Colorado offers a refined and versatile driving experience that sets it apart in the competitive midsize truck segment.

One of the standout features of the 2024 Colorado is its impressive towing capacity, which is among the best in its class. Equipped with a range of powerful engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder option, the Colorado delivers robust performance both on and off the road. Whether navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain, drivers can count on the Colorado to provide a smooth and capable ride.

In addition to its performance capabilities, the Colorado offers a host of advanced technology and safety features designed to enhance the driving experience and provide peace of mind on the road. From its intuitive infotainment system with built-in Google apps to its comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies, the Colorado prioritizes convenience, connectivity, and safety for all occupants.

Furthermore, the Colorado’s spacious and comfortable interior ensures that passengers can travel in comfort, with ample legroom and storage space throughout the cabin. Whether embarking on a long road trip or simply running errands around town, the Colorado offers a welcoming and functional environment for all occupants.

Overall, the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado represents a compelling choice in the midsize truck segment, combining rugged capability, advanced technology, and refined design in a package that is sure to appeal to a wide range of drivers. With its impressive towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and off-road prowess, the Colorado stands out as a versatile and capable option for those seeking adventure on and off the beaten path.

2025 Lexus UX

The 2025 Lexus UX 300h is a compact luxury crossover exclusively available as a gas-electric hybrid, offering top-tier materials and build quality akin to higher-end Lexus models. With a starting price of $37,000, it prioritizes efficiency, boasting fuel economy ratings over 40 mpg. Available in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations, it features two F Sport trims—Design and Handling—enhancing handling and aesthetics. Standard features include Lexus Safety System 3.0, touchscreen infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and power-adjustable seats. Competing against Mercedes-Benz GLA 250, BMW X2, and Volvo XC40, the UX 300h shines in fuel efficiency, though its 196 horsepower rating places it towards the segment’s bottom. Positives include its luxurious interior materials and spacious cargo area, while considerations include limited rear-seat space. The UX 300h offers various trims, starting from $37,490 for the base model, with the 300h Premium being a popular choice at $40,690. Equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine augmented with dual electric motors, the UX delivers up to 196 horsepower. Notably, it provides an estimated combined fuel economy of 43 mpg for front-wheel-drive models. Safety features include automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Overall, the Lexus UX 300h stands out for its luxury, comfort, and exceptional mileage, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing fuel efficiency in a compact crossover.

2025 Ram 1500

Pickup trucks continue to dominate U.S. vehicle sales, with the Ram 1500 consistently ranking high. Its 2025 overhaul promises to uphold its status, boasting new features aimed at elevating comfort, convenience, and performance.

While the exterior tweaks lean towards evolution rather than revolution, the 2025 Ram 1500 flaunts a sleeker profile, accentuated by a larger, more assertive grille and striking LED headlights across all trims.

When it comes to power and capability, the departure of the iconic Hemi V8 after two decades may raise eyebrows. However, the introduction of a new 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six engine family promises enhanced performance, better fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions. This lineup includes a high-output variant generating a formidable 540 horsepower. Alongside, the base 3.6-liter V6 remains an option. Towing capacity peaks at 11,580 pounds, with a hauling capability of 2,300 pounds.

Inside, the Ram’s renowned comfort is taken up a notch, especially with the introduction of the opulent Tungsten trim. Adorned with dual-textured metal accents, quilted alternative leather, and an expansive 14.5-inch infotainment display, it sets a new benchmark for luxury.

In the competitive landscape, the Ram 1500 stands shoulder to shoulder with the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500, ranking third in U.S. sales. While the GMC Sierra 1500 and Toyota Tundra offer stiff competition, the 2025 updates are poised to keep the Ram in contention at the top.

Positives:

  • Enhanced engines for better performance and efficiency.
  • Luxurious Tungsten trim.
  • Onboard power inverter.

Considerations:

  • Absence of the iconic Hemi V8.
  • Towing rating slightly lower than rivals.

Verdict: The 2025 Ram 1500’s redesign, tech upgrades, and the introduction of the Tungsten trim ensure its competitiveness in the market. While purists might miss the Hemi V8, the new engine lineup and forthcoming electric models signal a promising future for Ram.