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Test Drive: 2022 Genesis GV70 2.5T Advanced

2022 Genesis GV70 2.5T AWD Advanced in Cardiff Green (A $500 option)

2022 Genesis GV70 2.5T AWD Advanced

Miles driven: 447

Fuel used: 21.5 gallons

CG Report Card


Room and Comfort	B
Power and Performance	B
Fit and Finish	A
Fuel Economy	C+
Value	A

Report-card grades are derived from a consensus of test-driver evaluations. All grades are versus other vehicles in the same class. Value grade is for specific trim level evaluated, and may not reflect Consumer Guide’s impressions of the entire model lineup.

Big & Tall Comfort

Big Guy	A
Tall Guy	A

Big & Tall comfort ratings are for front seats only. “Big” rating based on male tester weighing approximately 350 pounds, “Tall” rating based on 6’6″-tall male tester.

Drivetrain
Engine Specs	300-hp 2.5L
Engine Type	Turbo 4-cylinder
Transmission	8-speed automatic
Drive Wheels	All-wheel drive

Real-world fuel economy: 20.8 mpg

Driving mix: 65% city, 35% highway

EPA-estimated fuel economy: 22/28/24 (mpg city, highway, combined)

Fuel type: Premium gas recommended

Base price: $41,000 (not including $1045 destination charge)

Options on test vehicle: Cardiff Green paint ($500), Select Package ($4000), Advanced Package ($4150)

Price as tested: $50,695

Quick Hits

The great: Posh, comfortable cabin; quietness; long list of available comfort and convenience features

The good: Respectable acceleration from 4-cylinder engine; confident, distinctive styling; competitive pricing

The not so good: Our mediocre observed fuel economy trailed EPA estimates; some control-interface quirks

More Genesis GV70 price and availability information

John Biel

Perhaps Genesis mislabeled its brand-new premium-compact SUV by calling it the GV70. It is derived from the platform of the G70 sedan and styled in the same vein. But the available engines, rotary-dial gear selector, and console dial for the infotainment system are straight out of the midsize G80 sedan and GV80 sport-utility. Maybe the newcomer ought to really be called the GV75.

Of course, there are numbers that truly are more important to shoppers and we’ll get to them by and by. What really counts is that with the GV70 Genesis has created an excellent, value-packed entry in this busy market segment.

The Genesis GV70 launches for 2022 as the second crossover SUV in the growing Genesis-brand product lineup; in size and price, it slots in below the midsize Genesis GV80, which debuted for 2021.

Riding a wheelbase of 113.2 inches and ranging 185.6 inches from bumper to bumper, the 5-passenger GV70 is, respectively, 3.1 and 9.1 inches shorter in those categories than the GV80 that’s set up to carry seven in some models. Where the G70 premium-compact sedan offers the choice of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four or a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, the GV70 engines are a similarly aspirated 2.5-liter four and 3.5-liter V6.

All-wheel drive is standard in every GV70. Prices (with delivery) begin at $42,045 for the base 4-cylinder version and rise to $63,545 for the V6 Sport Prestige. Consumer Guide sampled a 2.5-equipped Advanced—it sits second from the top of four 4-cylinder models—with a starting price of $50,195. Only a spray of Cardiff Green paint nudged the final tab to $50,695.

Test Drive Gallery: 2021 Lincoln Corsair Reserve

The GV70’s interior is dazzling in terms of both design and materials. The infotainment system can be controlled via a center-console dial (which is unfortunately easy to grab when you intend to use the rotary-dial gear selector mounted just aft of it) or the extra-wide, 14.5-inch high-definition touchscreen.

Typically for a Genesis, trim levels are treated as packages added to the core model. To get two steps up from the base vehicle, CG’s tester first had to absorb Select equipment (19-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, 16-speaker Lexicon premium audio, ventilated front seats, and brushed-aluminum interior accents). Then came the Advanced package with leather upholstery, heated steering wheel, interior trim with a “Waveline” pattern, surround-view monitor, blind-spot view monitor, front parking-distance warning, rear parking-collision avoidance, Remote Smart Parking Assist (to jockey the vehicle in and out of tight spaces while the driver stands outside), and advanced rear-occupant alert.

Test Drive: 2022 Genesis G70 3.3T Sport Advanced

There’s ample space in the GV70’s front seats, but the rear-seat legroom and headroom can be tight for adults.

All that is the frosting on the cake. It builds on GV70 basics like LED headlights and taillights, heated exterior mirrors, heated front seats with power adjustment, dual-zone automatic climate control, front and rear 12-volt power outlets, and hands-free liftgate. Tech items include an infotainment system with 14.5-inch screen, navigation, satellite and HD radio, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility; dual front and rear USB ports; wireless device charging; and fingerprint recognition for one-touch starting. Safety and driving assists consist of adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping and following assist, rear parking-distance warning, and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic monitoring.

First Spin: 2022 Lexus NX

The GV70’s cargo volume is a bit better than most premium compact SUV rivals–there’s 28.9 cubic feet behind the second-row seats, which grows to 56.8 cubic feet when the second-row seat backs are folded.

The Advanced’s luxury additions fill out a cabin that’s pretty lush for the price, with lots of soft-touch material—even far down on the doors past the point at which lots of other manufacturers default to plastic. Knurled surfaces adorn the ends of the wiper and light-control stalks, steering-wheel thumb buttons, and the transmission selector dial. Metal accents brighten the doors, dash, console, and steering wheel. The big infotainment display atop the instrument panel is vibrant, easily legible, and can show two things at once (for instance radio settings and navigation map). Fortunately, it is a touchscreen, which means you don’t have to use the remote console controller—and this one reminds us a little of the Lexus Remote Touch get-up that we’ve never particularly liked. By the way, it’s uncanny how easy it is to reach this round controller when you really want the trans selector. Easy-working temperature dials mix with numerous buttons for climate control.

Quick Spin: 2021 Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced

A 300-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder is GV70’s base engine; a 375-hp turbo 3.5-liter V6 is also available. Choosing the Select package upgrades the standard 18-inch wheels to 19-inch alloys.

Comfortable seats welcome four adults. The front row is roomy; the second row slightly less so—but it would be wrong to call it cramped. Headroom is quite good, too, and driver sightlines are fairly unobstructed. Personal-item storage is accomplished in a large glove box, decent covered console bin, door pockets with bottle holders, and net pouches behind the front seats. Exposed cup holders are found in the console and the pull-down center armrest in the rear seat.

Overall cargo space is good, even if the rakish rear shape might stand in the way of certain loading options. The cargo bay holds at least 28.9 cubic feet of stuff. Drop the 60/40-split rear seats, which fold absolutely flush with the load floor, and a further 28 cubic feet open up.

Quick Spin: 2021 Volvo XC60 Recharge

The GV70’s attractively athletic body shape is highlighted by nicely executed styling details, such as the Genesis brand’s signature shield-shaped grille and slim “Quad Lamp” LED headlights and taillights.

The 2.5 engine, rated at 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, is attached to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This powerteam is an eminently competent pairing for moderately lively performance that gets a little zestier (and a touch louder) in “Sport” mode, with its quicker throttle response and more patient upshifts. Still, you can happily cruise all day in subtler “Comfort” mode. “Eco” and “Custom” settings are available as well. We wish the GV70 was a little stingier with gas—premium, wouldn’t you know. EPA ratings are 22 mpg in city driving, 28 on the highway, and 24 combined. When this driver put 81.5 miles on the test vehicle—with 69 percent city-style operation—it returned just 20.3 mpg.

With a suspension that’s a retuned version of the G70’s front struts and multilink rear, ride quality is luxury-brand good, with fine bump absorption and isolation from road noise. Steering is nicely weighted and responsive in the Comfort setting. Maybe the more resistant Sport-mode steering is a help on twisty roads where you wouldn’t want to overdo inputs, but in lazier urban-expressway driving it just feels heavy. Brakes are easy to modulate and predictably reliable.

The inaugural GV70 finds its strength in numbers—the number of things it does right. That would be true no matter what number Genesis assigned to it.

First Spin: 2022 Infiniti QX55

The new-for-2022 Genesis GV70 might be the Genesis brand’s most impressive vehicle so far; it delivers an athletic driving character, attractive styling inside and out, and a high level of luxury and available technology features, all at prices that handily undercut its primary European luxury-brand rivals.

Listen to the Car Stuff Podcast

Genesis GV70 2.5T Advanced Gallery

Click below for enlarged images.

Genesis GV70 2.5T Advanced

Meet the 2022 Consumer Guide Best Buys

Genesis GV70 2.5T Advanced

Car Stuff Podcast

Written by: The Daily Drive staff on December 22, 2021.

Feature: The 3 Best EVs for Road Tripping

Three Places To Cruise the Country on Electrons

There are a variety of benefits to swapping your gas guzzler for an electric vehicle. In addition to being eco-friendly, EVs save drivers on gas, provide more trunk space and can even earn you a spot in the HOV lane.

Sure, you’ll have to plug in and recharge eventually, but with a median range of more than 250 miles per charge, you won’t have to worry about refueling for a while in a modern EV. Plus, charging stations are becoming more prevalent, so you’ll have little trouble finding somewhere to charge.

Are you ready to take an EV on a road trip? Rent, lease or buy one of the following models.

1. Tesla Model 3

If you’re looking for a car that’ll go further and faster, the Tesla Model 3 should be your top choice. Drive more than 350 miles on a single charge (Long Range model) and go from zero-to-60 mph in about three seconds (Performance model).

Use Tesla’s Supercharger network (25,000+ chargers worldwide) to juice up your ride and add 175 miles worth of power in just 15 minutes. An autopilot adaptive cruise control feature and 15 cubic feet of storage space also lend themselves well to road-tripping.

2. Audi E-Tron

Are you in need of more storage space? The Audi E-Tron fits up to five passengers (with 28.5 cubic feet for cargo) or features more than 55 cubic feet of cargo room with two passengers. This luxury SUV EV will quickly charge to 80% in 30 minutes and drive 222 miles on a full battery. New E-Trons come with 1000 kilowatt-hours of free charging at Electrify America fast-charging stations.

Just don’t leave it plugged in overnight or you’ll lower the battery capacity and have to recharge more frequently. If you run out of power, Audi roadside assistance will dispatch a tow truck to take you to the nearest charging station.

3. Polestar 2

Enjoy the view and the drive in a Polestar 2. This Chinese-Swedish five-seater hatchback features a panoramic glass roof, vegan upholstery and a 33-minute fast charge time. Opt for the dual-motor model to go nearly 250 miles on a single charge and zero-to-60 in 4.5 seconds (the single motor version will take you 265 miles on a single charge, but takes seven seconds to reach 60 mph).

If you need help getting around, the Polestar 2 has Google built in, including the Google Assistant, which can understand user commands in various languages, Google Maps and Google Play Store for entertainment along the way.

Top Three EV Road-Trip Destinations

You’ve picked your EV. Now, where should you go? Choose one of the following destinations for scenic views, a smooth drive and plenty of charging stations.

Maine lighthouse — **Maine offers views and lobster, among other treats**

1. Maine

Take a trip up the East Coast to breathtaking Maine. This state is home to 65 historic lighthouses and plenty of delicious seafood, including fresh lobster. Remember to visit Acadia National Park for picturesque views of mountains, lakes and the rugged coastline.

2. Michigan

Michigan retailer Meijer has teamed up with Electrify America to offer EV charging stations across the state, so you can travel anywhere you please without running out of juice. Head to Traverse City for wine tasting or drive over Mackinac Bridge and explore the upper peninsula.

3. California

If you’re still concerned about finding places to recharge, head to the West Coast. California has more than 14,000 charging stations—more than any other state in the country. The Golden State is also home to scenic State Highway 1, a coastal route that stretches from the rustic north through San Francisco down past Big Sur on the way to LA and San Diego.

CA Highway 1 — **Hard to beat Highway 1 down the California coast**

Planning Your Trip

Planning an EV road trip requires a little more time and effort than if you were to take a gas-powered car. Use A Better Routeplanner, an EV-specific navigation app that provides information regarding intended speed, energy consumption and where to find charging stations along your route.

ABRP also tells you the charging time needed at each one so you can plan the fastest trip possible, minimize mishaps and simply enjoy the ride.

Road Trips We’ve Taken So Far:

Road Trip: 2021 Polestar 2

Road Trip: 2021 Volkswagen ID4

Road Trip: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E

Road Trip: 2020 Nissan Leaf

Cheap Wheels: 2001 GMC Sierra C3

2001 GMC Sierra C3

Note: The following story was excerpted from the August 2020 issue of Collectible Automobile magazine.

Even if you’re only vaguely aware of GMC products in general and Sierra full-sized pickups in particular, you probably know the brand’s most stylish and luxurious examples have long worn the Denali nameplate. Denali made its debut as GMC’s top-of-the-line 1998 Yukon sport-utility vehicle. Before GMC got around to cataloging a Sierra Denali, however, there was the mostly forgotten (not by us, obviously) 2001 Sierra C3.

2001 GMC Sierra C3

The Sierra was redesigned for 1999 with styling that evolved from the now-classic 1988 design. Significantly, Sierras wore different front sheetmetal than Chevrolet’s near-identical Silverado. Important updates included new 4.8- and 5.3-liter V-8s that replaced the old truck’s 305- and 350-cubic-inch “small-block” engines. Four-wheel disc brakes were new too.

To spice things up in 2001, GMC introduced a well-equipped, and vaguely performance-oriented full-size pickup, the unusually named Sierra C3. Based on the 1⁄2-ton Sierra 1500, it was priced from about $39,000, and only offered as an extended-cab model with a short Fleetside bed and full-time all-wheel drive. C3 rode a 143.5-inch wheelbase and was 227.7 inches long with a curb weight of approximately 5000 pounds. The AWD system normally allocated 38 percent of the torque to the front wheels and 62 percent to the rear, but could transfer nearly all available torque to whichever axle had traction.

Under the hood, C3 boasted a 6.0-liter V-8 rated at 325 bhp and 370 pound-feet of torque. It was an engine that wasn’t available on other 1⁄2-ton Sierras, and it mated to a four-speed automatic. Other upgrades included “sport” suspension tuning, a locking rear differential, and all-season touring tires on 17-inch alloy wheels. A heavy-duty 8700-pound-rated tow package with a trailer-hitch platform, a seven-wire trailer harness, and transmission oil cooler was standard.

The C3 exterior received model-specific styling touches. Perhaps most noticeable was the perforated grille insert that somewhat recalled the appearance of a foil cutting screen on a Braun electric shaver. Other additions included projector-beam headlamps, a body-color front bumper with round fog lamps, side steps, and a tonneau cover. Most trim was color matched to the body paint.

The cabin was very well equipped. Heated leather front bucket seats with power adjustment sat on either side of the center console. The driver’s seat included a memory function. In the back, a fold-up bench seat provided seating for three. The AM/FM/cassette stereo included a six-disc CD changer and steering-wheel controls, along with rear-seat controls and headphone jacks. Other niceties were a rear defogger, universal garage-door opener, and an outside temperature display.

As things turned out, Sierra C3 was one-year-and-out. It was effectively replaced by the 2002 Sierra Denali that was generally similar but about $5000 costlier. The price jump was largely explained by the inclusion of General Motors’s short-lived “Quadrasteer” four-wheel steering system—a story for another day.

Cheap Wheels: 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix STE Turbo

Pros:

Since almost no one remembers what a C3 is, today’s prices shouldn’t be that different from more run-of-the-mill 2001 Sierras.
Contemporary reviewers liked the 6.0-liter V-8’s ample power and throttle response, but budget for gas mileage in the low teens.

Cons:

In 2001, extended-cab trucks had rear-hinged access doors that aren’t as handy as the four traditional independently opening doors expected today.
If you need true off-road capability, C3’s all-wheel-drive setup isn’t meant for that.

Final Drive:

America clearly loves full-sized pickups, and increasingly seeks stylish, well-equipped, and, yes, even luxurious trucks. Little remembered almost two decades on, the GMC Sierra C3 was at the leading edge of this trend.

What Was The GMC Envoy XUV?

What Was The GMC Sierra C3?

2001 GMC Sierra C3

Car Stuff Podcast

Written by: Don Sikora II on August 12, 2021.

Quick Spin: 2021 Volkswagen Arteon SEL R-Line

2021 Volkswagen Arteon SEL R-Line in King’s Red Metallic (a $395 option)

2021 Volkswagen Arteon SEL R-Line

Class: Premium Midsize Car

Miles driven: 375

Fuel used: 17.1 gallons

CG Report Card


Room and Comfort	B+
Power and Performance	B
Fit and Finish	A-
Fuel Economy	B
Value	B

Report-card grades are derived from a consensus of test-driver evaluations. All grades are versus other vehicles in the same class. Value grade is for specific trim level evaluated, and may not reflect Consumer Guide’s impressions of the entire model lineup.

Big & Tall Comfort

Big Guy	A
Tall Guy	B

Big & Tall comfort ratings are for front seats only. “Big” rating based on male tester weighing approximately 350 pounds, “Tall” rating based on 6’6″-tall male tester.

Drivetrain
Engine Specs	268-hp 2.0-liter
Engine Type	Turbo 4-cylinder
Transmission	8-speed auto
Drive	AWD

Real-world fuel economy: 21.9 mpg

Driving mix: 80% city, 20% highway

EPA-estimated fuel economy: 20/31/24 (mpg city, highway, combined)

Fuel type: Premium gas recommended

Base price: $43,395 (not including $1195 destination charge)

Options on test vehicle: King’s Red Metallic paint ($395)

Price as tested: $44,985

Quick Hits

The great: Sleek, striking styling; ample cargo space and versatility of hatchback body style

The good: Classy, nicely equipped cabin; respectable acceleration from turbo 4-cylinder engine

The not so good: Only one powertrain is available; some finicky controls

More Arteon price and availability information

CG Says:

The Volkswagen Arteon is a nice car in search of an audience. Introduced for 2019 as a hatchback-sedan replacement for the erstwhile midsize CC “4-door coupe,” it boasted better passenger space and improved cargo versatility while maintaining the tradition of the CC’s classy surroundings. (The Arteon is the only current VW that Consumer Guide classifies as a “premium” version of its vehicle type.) None of that seems to have done the car much good with the buying public, though. According to industry journal Automotive News, calendar-year sales of the Arteon grew by a whopping 47 percent from 2019 to 2020—to all of 3602 units. It’s far and away the brand’s least popular product line sold in the U.S.

Launched as a 2019 model, the Arteon undergoes a mild refresh for 2021 that includes revised exterior styling.

Twenty twenty-one Arteons hope to move the needle further with revised styling throughout and a new infotainment system. The lineup has contracted and undergone revision as well. For this test, Consumer Guide drove an SEL R-Line with 4MOTION all-wheel drive. It is now the only trim level with the choice of front- or all-wheel motivation, with a front-drive SE below it and an AWD SEL Premium R-Line above it. All SEL and Premium models come with standard sporty R-Line appearance features.

Test Drive: 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line

The Arteon’s dashboard design is as sleek and stylish as its exterior. Control-layout updates include touch-sensitive climate controls in place of the previous dial setup–a change that’s not necessarily for the better, in our book.

In terms of outward appearance, the test car had a new lower front fascia with a black surface that visually linked the cooling ducts at the far ends, and a new LED light bar integrated in the grille. (Both details kick in at the SEL level.) Inside, there was better integration of the infotainment stack into the instrument panel, and lower-profile heating/cooling vents spread across the dash. The new arrangement does away with an analog clock formerly found in the top center of the dash above the 8-inch info screen, and the handy control dials for the 3-zone climate system. All climate settings are now made through touch-sensitive controls. At least external power and tuning knobs remain to help make it easy to make audio-preset selections.

Test Drive: 2021 Cadillac CT5 Premium Luxury

Despite its fairly rakish roofline, the Arteon offers good space for six-footers in both the front and rear seats.

For some reason known only to the folks in Wolfsburg, selection of drive modes has gotten more complicated. There is a “Mode” button on the console that, when tapped, activates a display on the infotainment screen with touch points for available drive modes. At this point the driver has to look away from road to screen to identify the “button” for the desired mode and tap it—but don’t hit a bump at that moment or you might mis-hit! A console dial with closely grouped icons would be quicker, easier, and perhaps safer.

Test Drive: 2021 Lexus ES 250 AWD F Sport

The Arteon’s slick “hidden” hatchback layout makes for much better cargo space and versatility than the typical midsize sedan. There’s 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, and that number grows to 56.2 cu. ft. when the rear seat backs are folded down. A removable hard cover keeps cargo-area contents out of sight.

In other respects, the ’21 Arteon is like those that preceded it with a lively 268-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, effective 8-speed automatic transmission, adjustable damping for the fully independent suspension, comfortable amounts of front and rear passenger room, and a healthy 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space under the rear hatch. CG editors collectively wrung 21.9 mpg from the car in a test heavy with city miles (one even neared 23 mpg), which is similar to their experience with a 2019 SEL Premium with 4MOTION, and about in line with EPA fuel-economy estimates for this powerteam. Note that premium fuel is recommended for the Arteon.

Test Drive: 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring

The Arteon’s only engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that puts out 268 horsepower and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. SEL R-Lines come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels.

The SEL R-Line with 4MOTION starts at $44,590 with delivery, which is $1800 more than its front-drive sibling. Only King’s Red Metallic paint, one of three extra-cost colors available, added to the bottom line of the test car. Aside from previously mentioned items, the SEL R-Line comes with the XDS Cross Differential (it uses the brakes to help maintain power to the outside wheel to improve cornering), 19-inch alloy wheels, black trunklid spoiler, adaptive LED headlights, power panoramic sunroof, leather-wrapped R-Line steering wheel, leather upholstery, heated power-adjustable front seats, 60/40-split rear seat, illuminated and carpeted cargo area, multicolor ambient lighting, “Digital Cockpit” instrument display, keyless entry and starting, satellite radio, navigation, wireless charging, App-Connect smartphone integration, and VW Car-Net remote services. Adaptive cruise control with stop=and-go capability and a raft of the latest driving aids and safety monitors are included as well.

Maybe it’s because people don’t associate Volkswagen with cars that cost like an Audi, BMW, or Lexus. Maybe it’s because of the rise of SUVs at the expense of sedans. For whatever reason, the VW Arteon remains overlooked.

Test Drive: 2021 Genesis G80 3.5T Prestige

American consumers have apparently decided that the Volkswagen Arteon doesn’t offer enough performance and/or luxury to be a viable rival to higher-priced premium-brand cars such as the Audi A5 Sportback, or lower-priced mainstream-brand alternatives such as the sportier versions of the Honda Accord, Kia K5, or Toyota Camry. Still, we think this unique, category-straddling hatchback sedan has enough virtues that it should sell better than it does.

Check out the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast

2021 Volkswagen Arteon SEL R-Line Gallery

(Click below for enlarged images)

Test Drive: 2021 Acura TLX

Written by: The Daily Drive staff on July 22, 2021.

First Spin: 2021 Toyota Camry

2021 Toyota Camry XLE AWD

Seemingly undaunted by conventional wisdom that says the sedan is dead, Toyota is pressing ahead with a physically freshened and technologically improved Camry for 2021.

Toyota still sells plenty of these midsize passenger cars—indeed, it has been the country’s best-selling sedan for years. The current eighth-generation Camry dates to 2018, when the fully redesigned product line adopted a stiffer Toyota New Global Architecture platform and styling that attempted to shake off a reputation for innocuous blandness. The nameplate expanded its reach in 2020 with the additions of a performance-tinged V6-powered TRD model and an all-wheel-drive option.

Our first taste of the 2021 Camry’s updates came in the form of a XLE model with all-wheel drive. AWD was added to the Camry lineup midway through the 2020 model year.

Among the highlights of the ’21 Camry are some give and take in the model hierarchy. The family of 4-cylinder gas-engine Camrys loses its entry-level front-wheel-drive L version; the LE is the new starter model there. Meanwhile, the hybrid branch of the family adds a line-topping XSE. The full 2021 lineup with base prices (including $995 delivery fee) looks like this:

LE (FWD), $25,965
LE (AWD), $27,365
SE (FWD), $27,480
SE (AWD), $28,880
SE Nightshade (FWD), $28,180
SE Nightshade (AWD), $29,580
XLE (FWD), $30,865
XLE (AWD), $32,265
XLE V6 (FWD), $35,990
XSE (FWD), $31,415
XSE (AWD), $32,815
XSE V6 (FWD), $36,540
TRD (FWD), $33,180
LE Hybrid (FWD), $28,265
SE Hybrid (FWD), $29,780
XLE Hybrid (FWD), $33,165
XSE Hybrid (FWD), $33,715

All models come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, an updated suite of driver-assistance technologies that includes automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert with steering assist, lane-tracing assist, automatic headlight high-beam control, road-sign recognition, and dynamic radar cruise control. The system can now detect a preceding bicyclist in the daytime and pedestrians in low-light situations. It also can provide alerts and emergency braking at intersections when an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian is detected during left turns. Those with the full-speed version of the cruise control (gas-engine XLEs and XSEs, TRD, and all Hybrids) are now designed for smoother passing of slower vehicles once the driver initiates a signaled lane change.

Test Drive: 2020 Toyota Camry TRD

The biggest change to the Camry’s dashboard is a switch to a “tablet style” infotainment screen that sticks out from the rest of the dashboard. XSE and XLE models get a 9-inch touchscreen; other Camrys have a 7-inch touchscreen.

Outward appearances see the LE and XLE with a new front fascia that has a redone lower-intake area, plus new 17- and 18-inch wheel designs, respectively. Changes to the SE/XSE fascia feature are a recontoured bottom bar and side-vent grilles that match the honeycomb design of the main grille. Inside, the infotainment display screen moves out of the center of the dashboard to rise in the freestanding tablet style that has become popular throughout the auto industry in recent years. A 9-inch screen is found on all XLE- and XSE-trim models; others get a 7-inch screen. In addition, cabin accent trim is new, with linear dark moldings, wood inlays, or patterned metal depending on the model.

Test Drive: 2020 Nissan Altima SL AWD

Even in upscale XLE trim, the Camry’s interior ambiance isn’t quite as classy as the top-line trim levels of the Honda Accord or Mazda 6, but the cabin is spacious and comfortable nonetheless.

The rest of the Camry package, in terms of dimensions and powerteams, stands pat. The 2.5-liter “Dynamic Force” 4-cylinder engine in gas-only models makes 206 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque for the dual-outlet-exhaust XSE, but 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft in other models. (With all-wheel drive, respective horsepower ratings are lower by one.) The 3.5-liter V6 is rated at 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft. Both are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Hybrids depend on a 176-horse/163-lb-ft version of the four plus a 118-horsepower electric motor fed by a lithium-ion battery located under the rear seat to generate a total system output of 208 horsepower. Hybrid power is channeled through an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission with “manual-shift” capability either through steering-wheel paddles or the console lever. EPA fuel-economy ratings for SE, XLE, and XSE hybrids are 44 mpg in the city, 47 mpg on the highway, and 46 combined, but respective figures for the LE are 51, 53, and 52.

In Defense of the Sedan: A Minneapolis Family Road Trip in the 2019 Mazda 6

The Camry’s trunk volume is about par for the course in the midsize-sedan segment–it offers 15.2 cubic feet of space.

Aside from items already mentioned, LE buyers get color-keyed power exterior mirrors, manual air conditioning (except on Hybrid, where dual-zone automatic climate control is standard), 4.2-inch vehicle-information display, fabric-upholstered seats, 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, 60/40-folding rear seat with center armrest and cup holders, remote keyless entry (and push-button starting on Hybrid), 6-speaker audio system, satellite radio, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay/Amazon Alexa compatibility.

SEs add a black “sport mesh” grille, color-keyed sport rocker panels and rear spoiler, single-zone automatic climate control, tire-pressure monitoring system, leatherette-and-fabric seat trim, and leather-trimmed steering wheel. SE Nightshades have additional exterior black highlights. XSEs adds to the SE’s sporty feel with LED headlights, touch-sensor exterior door handles, quad-tip dual exhaust, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless charging, 7-inch vehicle-info display, leather upholstery, 8-way power passenger seat, heated front seats, “Eco”/“Normal”/“Sport” driving modes, push-button starting, auto-dimming rearview mirror, ambient interior lighting, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. The XSE V6 also comes with a panoramic moonroof, head-up display, and 9-speaker JBL audio. XSE Hybrid lacks the dual exhaust but has an extra “EV” driving mode.

The luxury-focused XLE lacks the XSE’s rocker panels and deck spoiler, but features a bright-accented grille, and the V6 has dual single-tip exhausts. TRD specifics include a specially tuned cat-back exhaust system, aero kit with front air splitter, lower stance on a stiffened suspension, larger disc brakes with red calipers, and red interior highlights—even on the instruments.

Test Drive: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited

All AWD Camrys are powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder; it’s rated at 202 horsepower in all trim levels except the sporty XSE model, where it’s rated at 206 hp. XLE models like our test vehicle get 18-inch wheels with a new design.

Consumer Guide’s first exposure to the 2021 Camry was shorter than one of its usual vehicle tests, confined to a single weekend with a pre-production XLE with all-wheel drive. Even with the added weight (approximately 165 pounds) that comes with AWD, overall performance remained close to what we’ve experienced in the front-drive 4-cylinder Camry: decent acceleration from a stop and easy highway cruising with good passing and merging power. There’s slightly quicker response from Sport mode, with modestly firmer steering, too. As for ride, the XLE is tuned for comfort, but it’s not overly soft on its 18-inch wheel-and-tire package. Topping off after 73 miles (60 percent in city driving) worked out to 24.1 mpg, which is not superlative. EPA estimates for this model are 25 mpg in city driving, 34 in highway operation, and 28 combined.

We can’t fault the interior room and comfort, or the fit and finish. The infotainment system—optioned up to the premium audio with navigation in the test car—was fairly easy to work, but for the time-consuming wait for station lists to load before we could input radio presets. Even though the screen placement has been changed, it still has handy surface buttons at the sides like the old unit had. The trunk is big—a couple’s weekly grocery haul almost looked lost back there—but when the rear seats are retracted for added space, they rest a few inches above the level of the trunk floor.

The changes made to the 2021 Camry represent a measured stride, not a great leap forward. However, there’s no sign that Toyota has lost a step in the midsize-sedan field.

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The Toyota Camry’s updates for 2021 don’t amount to much more than a nip here and a tuck there, but they help keep this popular midsize sedan at the forefront of its class.

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2021 Toyota Camry Gallery

2021 Toyota Camry

Written by: John Biel on October 20, 2020.

News: Ford Pumps Up the Electric Volume on its Crown Jewel

2021 F-150 Adds Hybrid, Confirms Full Electric Version

It’s only been five years since the last major redesign of the Ford F-150, not a long time historically in the truck world, but with competition heating up both in the traditional competitors and newcomers, Ford is pushing forward with the introduction of the all-new 2021 F-150, a remake of its best-selling and most lucrative model.

A new look for the F-150 (1 of 11)

The goal of the introduction this week, hosted by Ford spokesperson Dennis Leary and featuring a variety of Ford employees and F-150 customers, was to show that Ford is well-aware that its industry-leading position (best-selling truck for the past 43 years) is not something assumed, but an achievement to be re-earned every year. The 2021 Ford F-150 has a very simple goal—maintain and expand that market lead for another year or two.

Highlights of the introduction (some detail below) included the presentation of a new full hybrid model and confirmation that a full-electric version is coming. The other big takeaway is that electrification in a pickup take a significantly different form that in a sedan. In a truck application, the emphasis of a large battery is less on propulsion and zero emission miles than on providing a mobile power source for tools and toys.

Next year’s F-150, which will go on sale this fall, follows the typical pickup mold of offering a dizzying number of options in an attempt to provide a potential pickup for every possible buyer. The completely redesigned truck (every one of the aluminum exterior panel is new) will offer six engines, 13 different wheels and 11 grille options in a half-dozen trim levels.

Fuel Economy Focus

Aerodynamics & tough pickups don’t always go together

Although no official fuel economy numbers are available, Ford pointed out that it was the most aerodynamic pickup the company has ever designed, employing grille shutters, a new automatically deploying air dam and new cab and tailgate geometry to reduce drag and reduce fuel consumption on all models.

The new hybrid F-150 will use an all-new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, augmented by a 35-kW/47-horsepower electric motor. A 10-speed transmission and 1.5 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery (mounted between the frame rails so it doesn’t take up any passenger or cargo space) complete the powertrain.

The all-electric F-150 will come in 2022, according to Ford COO Jim Farley. When it arrives, it will likely face several competitors, including the Rivian R1T, GMC Hummer, Tesla Cybertruck, Lordstown Endeavor and Nikola Badger.

Electrification on the Job

Back to the present, Ford sees electric power as another tool for the job. The 2021 F-150 will come up with up to 7.2 kilowatts (kW) of exportable power, enough to run a generator and a variety of power tools through 120-volt and/or 240-volt outlets.

Plugs for all your jobs

Inside Ford has added a variety of high-tech features that point out how mainstream the modern pickup has become. One clever addition is that, with a few quick shifts of hardware, the center console can become a desk big enough to hold a laptop. Above that center console half of the F-150 lineup will have 12.0-inch touchscreen displays, matching what’s becoming the standard for the segment. The display will come equipped with Sync4, the latest version of Ford’s infotainment system. Ten new advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are going to be available.

Recognizing the variety of uses a truck might undergo, Ford has designed the front seats to recline 180 degrees, so not only is the pickup and office, but also a bedroom. Under the backseat is a lockable storage unit for stashing away valuables or expensive tools.

The Most List

What a pickup needs is a most list and Ford has drawn up a long one. The stated goal of the 2021 F-150 is to be able to tow the biggest load in its class, carry the heaviest payload, have the most horsepower and torque and also have the longest range.

More tech than seen in a pickup before

Don’t expect the competition to take this lying down, but Ford also had other news last week that went well beyond the news about the redesign of its best-selling product. The company laid out a goal of becoming of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 with three areas of focus that account for 95 peercent of the companies CO₂ emissions:

Vehicle use
Supply base
Facilities

On the vehicle side, it’s putting $11.5 billion through 2022 into the Mustang Mach-E, Transit Commercial and fully electric F-150. It expects all of its manufacturing plants to use 100 percent locally sourced renewable energy by 2035.

Story by Michael Coates

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