2025 Toyota Crown Signia

Toyota is doubling down on gas-electric hybrids with the introduction of the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia, the latest addition to their hybrid lineup and the 13th model in this category. Positioned as a midsize five-seater, the Crown Signia strikes a balance between size and luxury, catering to Toyota’s crossover and SUV enthusiasts who might find other options too large or expensive.

While the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia won’t hit dealerships until the summer of 2024, some key details have already been unveiled. The vehicle was recently showcased in Los Angeles, shedding light on its powertrain and trim options. Unlike a traditional SUV, the Crown Signia sports a design that leans more towards a lifted wagon. Toyota positions it as a premium model, sharing the stage with the Toyota Crown sedan, which starts at just over $41,000 this year. Expect the Signia variant to begin around $43,000. Toyota will offer it in two trim levels: XLE and Limited, with no performance-oriented turbocharged version for the 2025 model year, at least initially.

Equipped with standard electronic all-wheel drive, the Crown Signia will likely compete with rivals like the Subaru Outback and various midsize SUVs such as the Kia Sorento and Honda Passport. While it might come with a slightly higher price tag, its hybrid technology promises to deliver impressive fuel efficiency, potentially offsetting the initial cost difference over time. The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia aims to attract drivers who appreciate a blend of wagon-like functionality, style, and fuel efficiency.

2025 Toyota Camry

The 2025 Toyota Camry, now in its ninth generation, emerges with a fresh appearance, enhanced performance, and an exclusive Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) powertrain, firmly establishing itself as a symbol of excellence among sedans. Crafted and manufactured in the United States, this new Camry reinvigorates the beloved best-selling sedan in the U.S., offering augmented power, captivating aesthetics, feature-rich convenience, and adept handling. As part of Toyota’s commitment to providing electrification options for all, the 2025 Toyota Camry will be available exclusively as an HEV, offering a blend of power and fuel efficiency ideal for daily driving.

The Camry draws its power from Toyota’s first-ever sedan pairing of a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine with the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5). This dynamic HEV incorporates the engine’s power with two electric motors, delivering 225 net combined horsepower for Front Wheel Drive (FWD) models and 232HP for Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models. Engineers have fine-tuned the HEV system for improved acceleration and torque feel at lower speeds by reducing engine RPMs and augmenting power from the traction battery. The Camry proudly dons the “Beyond Zero” badge, symbolizing Toyota’s commitment to carbon emissions reduction and a carbon-neutral future.

For the first time in Camry Hybrid history, Toyota’s Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system is available across all grades. This AWD system enhances traction in challenging conditions, such as inclement weather or cornering, courtesy of a dedicated rear electric drive motor generator that automatically supplies power to the rear wheels when needed.

Anticipated to arrive in Toyota Dealerships in Spring 2024, the 2025 Toyota Camry boasts a sleek and athletic design. The hammerhead front fascia gives the sedan a clean, distinctive appearance, and all grades feature slim LED headlights, daytime running lights, and taillights. Sportier SE and XSE grades exhibit a sleek roofline, chiseled body, racing-inspired aerodynamic air ducts, front-side canards, a rear diffuser, an exposed dual-tip exhaust, and a rear lip spoiler. The XSE further enhances its sporty style with a color-matched front grille and black trunk garnish, while SE grades come with 18-inch multi-spoke black-finished alloy wheels, and XSE models feature 19-inch multi-spoke black and smoke gray-finished alloy wheels.

Inside the Camry, an open-concept design merges with fine materials to create a unique and modern ambiance across all grades. Sport grades offer SofTex®-trimmed seats with bold white accents in Boulder or Black for the SE and leather-trimmed interiors with artistic “shooting blade” patterned perforations for the XSE. The latter is available in Black with blue lined perforations or the popular Cockpit Red. SE and XSE grades come equipped with aluminum sport pedals and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters. Comfort grades showcase their interior personality, with the LE featuring an ocean wave-inspired design, and the XLE boasting leather and Dinamica® microfiber-trimmed seats in Light Gray or Black, with quilted patterns on the front door panels and dashboard. Enhanced seat comfort is achieved through changes in seat cushion shape, density, and headrest positioning. XLE and XSE grades offer front heated and ventilated seats with adjustable settings and a quieter cabin due to standard front-side acoustic laminated glass.

Convenience is paramount in the Camry, featuring a standard smart key with a push-to-start button, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents, and the XLE’s driver’s memory seat and memory side view mirrors. XLE models offer automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers, while XLE and XSE grades can opt for a power tilt and slide panoramic roof with a power-retractable sunshade.

Under the hood, the Camry houses the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5) for an enhanced driving experience. This system employs lighter and more compact electric motors, delivering more power and improved performance compared to the previous hybrid system. THS 5, combined with Toyota’s Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, results in 232 net combined horsepower, surpassing the current generation’s mechanical All-Wheel Drive system by 30 horsepower.

The AWD system, carefully adapted to work seamlessly with the hybrid system, provides precise on-demand front-rear torque distribution, enhancing start-off acceleration, handling, fuel efficiency, and stability on slippery road surfaces.

Tech enthusiasts will appreciate the standard 7-inch digital gauge cluster on LE and SE models and the 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster on XLE and XSE grades. XLE and XSE models can opt for a 10-inch Head-Up Display for quick access to speed, warning indicators, and turn-by-turn navigation.

The Toyota Audio Multimedia System comes with an 8-inch touchscreen or an available 12.3-inch screen. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, along with a Qi wireless charging pad, enhance connectivity. The Camry also includes a combination of USB-A and USB-C ports, with three in the front and two in the rear, across all grades.

Enhanced connectivity features are available, including simultaneous dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity, a Wi-Fi Connect* trial/subscription for 4G connectivity for up to five devices, and Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. The Camry offers Integrated Streaming, linking separate Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions for onboard control, and a nine-speaker JBL® Premium Audio system upgrade.

Connected services include Safety Connect* for emergency assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, and Stolen Vehicle Locator. Service Connect* provides Vehicle Health Reports and Maintenance Alerts. A Digital Key is available on XLE and XSE grades, with Remote Connect* allowing smartphone-based passive entry unlock on front doors and trunk, as well as push start in-cabin.

As for driver assistance and safety, the Camry comes standard with Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The XLE and XSE grades offer a Premium Plus Package with Traffic Jam Assist**, Front-Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Panoramic View Monitor, and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Automatic High Beams, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features.

With its forward-thinking design, enhanced performance, advanced technology, and a commitment to sustainability, the 2025 Toyota Camry sets a new standard for the modern sedan.

2024 Toyota Tundra

The 2024 Toyota Tundra full-size truck boasts a range of configurations and features, catering to a broad spectrum of needs. Having undergone a full redesign in 2022, the Tundra now offers a lineup of 10 trim levels, spanning from a basic work truck to a fully-loaded luxury pickup. Two cab configurations, the double cab, and the crew cab, provide four doors for easy access. While three bed lengths are available, the 8-foot-long bed is exclusively offered with the double cab configuration. The Tundra comes equipped with a twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering a robust 389 horsepower and an impressive 479 pound-feet of torque. Power is efficiently transmitted through a 10-speed automatic transmission, either to the rear wheels or to all four wheels via a two-speed transfer case on four-wheel-drive models. An even more potent hybrid variant of the base engine elevates the output to 437 hp and an astonishing 583 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a maximum towing capacity of 12,000 pounds. While some competitors may handle higher loads, the Tundra offers ample capability for most tasks. Inside the Tundra’s cabin, functionality and comfort reign supreme. Passenger space is generous, particularly in crew cab models, and the interior layout is meticulously designed to optimize space utilization. An impressive 14-inch multimedia screen is available, accompanied by features like heated and ventilated leather-trimmed power-adjustable seats and a convenient wireless charging pad.

Though the Toyota Tundra enjoys popularity as a full-size truck, there’s a competitive landscape to consider. The Ram 1500, for instance, boasts a remarkably refined ride and a plethora of engine and trim options. Similarly, the Ford F-150 offers a multitude of choices and holds the highest ratings for towing and payload capacity. Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 shares similarities with the Tundra in terms of trims and features but provides greater diversity among its lower-priced models. In the 2024 model year, a Nightshade package is introduced, available on the Toyota Tundra Limited model. It incorporates dark exterior trim elements, including black 20-inch wheels, window moldings, door handles, badges, and mirror caps. Additionally, the TRD Off-Road package becomes accessible on Platinum models, and a new factory-installed 3-inch lift kit joins the list of Tundra options. There are few areas where the 2024 Toyota Tundra lags behind its rivals. With robust capability, a well-thought-out cabin, and top-notch safety features, the Tundra competes admirably. While it may offer fewer engine options and configurations compared to the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and doesn’t quite match their towing and hauling capabilities, it presents a well-rounded mix of choices with substantial capability. Despite a slightly less refined ride and fewer configurations than some competitors, the 2024 Toyota Tundra stands as a powerful contender among pickup trucks. Its potent engines, comfortable interior, and rich feature set position it favorably against rival trucks in the market.

2024 Toyota Camry

The 2024 Toyota Camry solidifies its reputation as a dependable family sedan, boasting nearly six decades of legacy and maintaining its position as one of the United States’ most respected and best-selling midsize cars. The Camry’s enduring appeal stems from its well-rounded package, appealing to a broad spectrum of drivers.

What sets the Camry apart is its remarkable versatility, offering an impressive lineup of 13 different trim levels. This extensive range allows buyers to customize the Camry to their unique requirements, whether they seek a no-frills daily commuter, a sportier sedan, or a near-luxury cruiser.

Under the hood, the Camry provides options to cater to diverse driving styles and efficiency priorities. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces a respectable 203 horsepower, efficiently channeled to the front wheels via an eight-speed transmission. Those desiring more power can opt for the V6 engine, which delivers a robust 301 horsepower, enhancing performance noticeably. For the eco-conscious, the Camry Hybrid models shine, achieving an impressive 52 mpg in combined city and highway driving, making it one of the most fuel-efficient options in its class.

Inside, the Camry ensures a comfortable and smooth ride regardless of trim level. It boasts a spacious cabin with quality materials, creating an inviting atmosphere. The infotainment system, even on the base trim, impresses with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing connectivity for modern drivers. Safety is paramount, with standard high-tech features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive radar cruise control, offering peace of mind.

While the Camry excels in comfort and practicality, it may not satisfy those seeking an exhilarating driving experience, falling short in dynamic performance compared to some competitors. Trunk space is another area where it lags behind rivals like the Honda Accord, which offers a more capacious cargo area.

In a competitive midsize sedan segment, the Camry contends with the Nissan Altima, Honda Accord, and Hyundai Sonata. While the Altima provides fewer options and a less powerful base engine, the Accord offers better fuel efficiency, a roomier trunk, and a hybrid variant. The Sonata lineup encompasses both gasoline and hybrid engines, with pricing that closely rivals the Camry across trim levels.

In summation, the 2024 Toyota Camry remains a testament to its enduring popularity among sedan enthusiasts. Its wide array of trims, comprehensive safety features, availability of front-wheel and all-wheel drive, and a choice between gasoline and hybrid powertrains make it a versatile and attractive choice. Although it may not deliver the same level of driving excitement as some rivals and has limited trunk space, the Camry offers a compelling package with abundant choices to cater to diverse buyer preferences, solidifying its position as a trusted and dependable favorite in the family sedan category.

2024 Toyota Corolla

For nearly six decades, Toyota’s Corolla has been a steadfast presence in the brand’s lineup, maintaining its status as one of the top-selling compact cars in the United States. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to a winning combination of reliability, practicality, and affordability. Toyota continues to refine this successful formula with the 2024 Toyota Corolla.

The Corolla sets an impressive standard for fuel efficiency, achieving nearly 40 mpg on the highway with its standard gasoline engine and up to 50 mpg in its hybrid variant. Inside, the cabin offers ample space and is adorned with high-quality materials. The infotainment system is more sophisticated than what you might expect in this price range, and it comes equipped with valuable driver-oriented features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. What sets the Corolla apart further is that it’s the only compact hybrid sedan offering all-wheel drive, providing an extra edge in performance. Additionally, for those who prefer a hatchback, there’s a separate option available (reviewed separately).

However, it’s worth noting that the Corolla doesn’t excel in terms of driving excitement. It doesn’t boast quick acceleration or particularly dynamic handling, and it won’t get your heart racing when navigating tight corners. For a more spirited driving experience, competitors like the Honda Civic or Mazda 3 might be more appealing. Furthermore, the Corolla falls short in trunk space when compared to rivals like the Civic or Hyundai Elantra, though the availability of the Corolla hatchback helps mitigate this issue. If you’re exploring alternatives, the Nissan Sentra and Subaru Impreza are also worthy of consideration. Nonetheless, the Corolla remains competitive for good reason, offering a compelling blend of features and affordability that resonates with a wide range of buyers.

The 2024 Toyota Corolla continues to be a favorite for valid reasons. Its integration of the latest technology and safety systems elevates the model’s standing in its price segment, while the hybrid variants deliver remarkable fuel efficiency. While it may not be the most thrilling option on the road, the Corolla excels in offering excellent value to its buyers.

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

In the fiercely competitive world of small SUVs, the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan manages to carve out its unique niche. Amidst a crowded field, this European offering distinguishes itself as the sole representative from the continent and one of the rare models with a third row of seats. The outcome is an engaging driving experience paired with a level of versatility that sets it apart from the majority of its SUV counterparts. When you factor in its comfortable ride, expansive cabin outfitted with above-average materials, the Tiguan becomes an enticing prospect for a wide range of prospective buyers.

While the third row adds practicality, it’s worth noting that the space it provides is limited and best suited for young children. Nevertheless, this feature makes the Tiguan a dependable choice for carpooling duties. Cargo capacity behind the third row is also on the smaller side, but this is a common trait among three-row SUVs. On the downside, the Tiguan is held back by its relatively less fuel-efficient engines and occasional sensitivity in the gas pedal, resulting in some unexpected lurches.

As a result, the VW Tiguan finds itself in the middle of the pack in its class, facing off against formidable competitors that have undergone more recent full redesigns. These contenders include the sporty Mazda CX-50, the fuel-efficient and family-friendly Honda CR-V, and the value-driven Kia Sportage (if a third row of seats isn’t a necessity). If you do require three rows, the Kia Sorento and Mitsubishi Outlander outshine the Tiguan in several aspects.

This year, Volkswagen has bolstered the Tiguan’s appeal by incorporating advanced safety features as standard and expanding the roster of standard features across all trim levels. While these enhancements make the Tiguan more enticing to potential buyers, we recommend assessing the competition to determine the best fit for your needs.

The Tiguan returns for its final year in this generation, equipped with Volkswagen’s comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assist features as standard across all models. Even the base S trim sees some incremental improvements, including automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, a synthetic leather-wrapped steering wheel, updated infotainment, and wireless charging. The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan brings a touch of European sophistication to the small SUV segment with its understated design and an interior that leans towards the realm of luxury. It sets itself apart by offering a third row of seats, although they are best suited for accommodating young passengers.

2024 Volkswagen Arteon

While it may appear that sedans are becoming a rare sight on the roads, overshadowed by the rising popularity of SUVs, they still offer numerous advantages. Sedans tend to be more budget-friendly, efficient, nimble, and enjoyable to drive. Enter the 2024 Volkswagen Arteon, a standout among the dwindling sedan options and definitely worth your consideration.

The Arteon earns accolades for its sleek and stylish exterior design, robust engine performance, sporty handling dynamics, and its capacious and refined interior. However, it’s advisable to steer clear of the base model, as its front-wheel-drive setup can be less surefooted compared to the other all-wheel-drive variants. While the Arteon may come with a slightly higher price tag for a non-luxury brand vehicle, its interior offers a touch of sophistication beyond the ordinary family sedan.

For those in search of a sedan that packs a punch in terms of performance and luxury, the Volkswagen Arteon stands tall. Its primary competitor, the aging Kia Stinger, was phased out by the end of 2023. There’s also the option of the smaller and more budget-friendly Acura Integra, a solid alternative if you don’t require as much interior space. The Volkswagen Arteon brings together style, performance, and interior roominess to lure buyers away from the SUV trend. While it might be pricier than your typical sedan, we believe the added cost is well justified.

The 2024 model year marks the end of the road for the Arteon.

2024 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas stands as the largest SUV in VW’s lineup, positioned above the compact Tiguan and subcompact Taos crossovers. Equipped with three rows of seating, the Atlas emerges as the perfect family hauler, equally at ease in country club driveways and school parking lots.

This year, the Atlas receives its most notable updates since its major refresh back in 2021. While the exterior receives subtle design tweaks, the most substantial enhancements are found beneath the hood and within the spacious cabin. For those seeking adventure, the lineup welcomes two fresh off-roading variants, namely the Atlas Peak Edition SE with Technology and the Peak Edition SEL with Technology. These models feature rugged tires and distinctive exterior trim, catering to those with a taste for exploration. Most of these refinements bolster the Atlas’ position in a fiercely competitive segment. However, some of the newly introduced tech controls might prove vexing for drivers, particularly the touch sliders that replace certain basic climate control functions.

Nevertheless, the revamped Atlas continues to shine among other three-row SUVs. Its abundant passenger space and capacious cargo capacity hold up well against the acclaimed Kia Telluride. We also challenge it against the redesigned Honda Pilot, which received a clever overhaul last year. The recently launched Mazda CX-90, with its luxury-oriented ambitions, is making waves and is poised to be a formidable competitor once it graces dealer showrooms. For those drawn to a slightly sportier demeanor, the Atlas Cross Sport, a two-row SUV (reviewed separately), presents a leaner look, albeit at the expense of some passenger space. Brimming with ample room for passengers and cargo, the Volkswagen Atlas makes a reliable choice within the realm of three-row SUVs. While most of the 2024 updates are commendable, the introduction of new touch controls might not resonate equally well with every buyer.

2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge is a compelling choice in the three-row plug-in hybrid SUV segment, offering a blend of power, luxury, efficiency, and space, all with a touch of Scandinavian style. It’s a niche market, but the XC90 Recharge stands out among rivals.

Built on the foundation of the gas-powered Volvo XC90, the XC90 Recharge combines an electric motor and battery pack with a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine. This combination provides an impressive 33 miles of electric-only range, making it suitable for shorter trips without using gasoline. On longer journeys, the engine and battery work together to deliver excellent fuel efficiency compared to competitors.

Inside, the XC90 Recharge mirrors the luxurious accommodations of its gas-powered counterpart. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, offering ample support and adjustability. Even the third-row seats can comfortably accommodate adults in a pinch, making them ideal for children. However, the 9-inch touchscreen may seem small compared to rivals, and the Google-based operating system can be less intuitive at times.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the XC90 Recharge comes equipped with an array of standard features that justify its price point. While some competitors offer more maximum cargo space or sportier driving dynamics, the XC90 Recharge distinguishes itself with all-around proficiency and charisma, making it an attractive choice.

Although three-row plug-in hybrids can be costly, the 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge delivers on its promise of space and efficiency while maintaining a distinctive personality. While it may have a few quirks, they are not deal-breakers, making the XC90 Recharge a strong contender in its class.

2024 Volvo XC60 Recharge

The 2024 Volvo XC60 Recharge is a distinctive compact luxury SUV, offering a plug-in hybrid option in a class dominated by traditional gasoline models. It shares many features with the standard XC60, providing ample passenger space and an appealing design. The standout feature is its powertrain, which combines a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 455 horsepower and 36 miles of pure electric range. While it excels in certain aspects like seating comfort and ride quality, it falls behind in cargo space and has a somewhat challenging infotainment system. Nevertheless, the XC60 Recharge is an appealing choice for those seeking luxury and eco-friendliness in one package.