The IIHS is phasing in a new, tougher side-impact test to more closely simulate real-world crash conditions, with small SUVs undergoing the new evaluation first. (Images: IIHS)
Out of 20 small SUVs tested, only one achieved a “Good” rating in this new crash test.
While you can split the latest crop of Top Safety Pick vehicles on advanced driver systems and how good the headlights are, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) isn’t letting crashworthiness tests fall by the wayside. Now, it’s phasing in a tougher side-impact test for 2020 and 2021 model year vehicles, starting with small SUVs.
For this new battery of tests, engineers redesigned the moving crash barrier to more closely represent collisions from trucks and other SUVs. To that end, the bulkier barrier now weighs in at 4,180 pounds (from about 3,300 pounds before). The speed increases as well to 37 mph, rather than 31 mph. Those updates mean that cars are now subjected to 82% more energy than earlier crash tests.
The result? Not a resounding success for many SUVs that may scored higher under the earlier side-impact test. In fact, only one model out of 20 tested achieved a “Good” rating in this new evaluation: the Mazda CX-5.
We should see some progress in updated models
“Obviously, these results aren’t great, but they’re in line with what we expected when we adopted this more stringent test,” said IIHS senior research engineer Becky Mueller. Aside from the CX-5, nine SUVs scored an “Acceptable” overall rating in the new side-impact test. Eight managed a “Marginal” rating, while two fell into the lowest “Poor” category.
These are the top 10 results in the IIHS’ latest side-impact crash test.
It’s not only the weight and speed of the barrier that matters here, either. The IIHS designed the honeycomb structure based on tests between two actual vehicles, using that data to design a barrier that can more accurately represent a real-world vehicle.
Finally, the Honda HR-V and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross scored “Poor” in the side-impact test. In the video below, the IIHS actually showed the HR-V’s results, where the B-pillar actually detached from the body structure. All the cars in IIHS were 2021 models, with the exception of the 2020 Eclipse Cross (as Mitsubishi skipped the 2021 model year with their recent facelift).
While we’re still in the transition period, vehicles will undergo these tests in the evaluation for Top Safety Pick from 2022 onwards.
The all new 2022 Toyota bZ4X looks like the futuristic baby of the RAV4 and Lexus RX. (Images: Toyota)
Toyota’s been late to the EV game compared to other players in the industry, but it’s bringing its first battery model to market soon. The new 2022 Toyota bZ4X EV, announced today, seeks to change that in a big way. The “bZ” in the name notes the platform and stands for “Beyond Zero.” Jointly developed with Subaru, the platform will eventually underpin seven different EV models by 2025. And from reading the tea leaves in Toyota’s news release, we’re going to assume one or more of those models will be a bonafide AWD off-road capable vehicle. Both Toyota and Subaru target off-road performance with this platform, and Subaru lent its expertise in AWD vehicles and its X-MODE system to the bZ. It remains to be seen which brand will get first dibs on the first off-roader, but we hope it’s going to be much more than an electrified Outback or RAV4 TRD Off Road.
Toyota bZ4X By the Numbers
The Toyota bZ4X will be sold globally in 2022.
Toyota has listed a range of 310 miles/charge for FWD models and 285 miles for AWD models from a 71.4 kWh battery. They also hype the fact that they spec’d their batteries to retain 90% of their capacity after 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. The EV can accept 150kW fast-charging and reach an 80% charge in 30 minutes. The bZ4X uses a dual-motor setup to achieve AWD. Acceleration from 0-100kmph/62mph is 7.7 seconds, according to Toyota. So it’s no speed demon, and this alone puts the Telsa Model Y ahead.
The bZ Buzz Factor
Chinese buyers of Toyota’s bZ4X can opt for the One-Motion-Grip steering yoke.
Two of the standout features we noticed on the bZ were what Toyota calls the One-Motion-Grip steering wheel and a roof inlayed with solar panels. The steering wheel made us instantly think of the controversial yoke steering wheel introduced by Tesla. Toyota says its wheel goes lock-to-lock in 150 degrees, thereby eliminating the need for hand-over-hand operations in tight corners or while parking. They also point out that it expands legroom and makes getting into and out of the front seat that much easier. For now, only Chinese customers will see this steering wheel, but Toyota does eventually plan to roll it out globally.
Select models of the new bZ platform can be optioned with a solar array inlayed into the roof. Toyota claims that the solar panels could deliver the equivalent of 1,100 miles of EV range back to crossover’s battery in a year. They also tout its ability to operate as a remote power generator during emergencies. We could see it getting better use to power gadgets at a campsite, tailgate, beach or elsewhere where you want to save as much juice as possible to get back home.
One last feature that caught our eyes: In addition to heated seats and steering wheel which use much, much less power than a traditional car heater, the bZ will use a radiant heater in the driver’s side floor to keep feet cozy.
Pricing & Availability
Toyota expects to launch the bZ around the world by the middle of 2022. With current supply-chain issues and the ongoing pandemic, we’ll see. Pricing, unfortunately, hasn’t been announced, but based on the battery’s size, we would not be surprised to see the AWD bZ4X likely start north of $50,000.
The Jeep Wrangler Overlook concept builds out the Sahara into a three-row safari rig. (Images: Stellantis)
Jeep’s bringing a range of concept builds to the SEMA 2021 show.
On top of Dodge’s ‘Holy Guacamole’ Challenger and Ram’s TRX RexRunner and Outdoorsman concepts, there are four bespoke Jeep builds hitting this year’s SEMA event in Las Vegas. We’ll be covering the show next week, and you can bet we’ll hit on these rigs, each of which sports a wide range of equipment from Mopar’s Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) catalog (obviously, the goal is to run a parts showcase with each of these manufacturer rigs).
First up, let’s cover the Jeep Wrangler Overlook concept. Right of the bat, the first thing you notice is the unique hardtop with safari windows in the bank. That makes this Sahara-based rig feel a little Discovery 2-ish, and there’s good reason for that. Behind the Sahara Bronze paint, 2-inch JPP lift with Fox shocks, Warn winch, 20-inch Black Rhino York wheels and 37-inch BFGoodrich KM3 tires, this is a three-row Wrangler concept.
The goal here, per Jeep, was to create a seven-seat off-roader out of the Wrangler. That rig, they say, would be “loaded with luxury touches and a wide array of [JPP] products.” As part of this concept’s package, you have a stamped steel front bumper to improve the approach angle, as well as a Satin Black grille above that. You get Jeep’s reinforced tailgate system with the oversized spare tire carrier and CHMSL relocation kit, as well as custom rear bumper extensions. A pair of 4,800-lumen lights fitted ahead of the A-pillars and tubular side steps finish off the exterior kit for the Overlook concept.
Inside, the Overlook aims to hit on that luxury component with Katzkin leather seats. There’s also a black leather-wrapped dashboard, as well as Sahara Bronze stitching and Raven Black suede on the center console.
Jeep also kitted out its latest Wrangler Rubicon 4xe.
If you bought the plug-in hybrid model or are still on the fence and thinking about how you’d want to build it out, this Wrangler 4xe concept is for you. There are a few custom pieces here, like the instrument panel accessory rail (shown below) to hold your mobile devices. On the whole, though, just imagine throwing every JPP accessory at the 4xe, and you’re pretty much there.
So, the 2-inch lift kit with Fox shocks, Warn winch, steel bumpers, tube doors, beadlock-capable wheels, LED lights, blue Katzkin leather, tailgate reinforcement — it’s all here. Jeep’s also taking this opportunity to show off its Gorilla Glass windshield, which you can order as a factory option or a la carte for your Wrangler or Gladiator through Mopar’s accessory catalog.
In the back, Jeep also fitted a trail-rail management system. That adds in multi-position cargo loops to securely store gear, as well as a flip-down table when you need a flat work surface. Finally, the Wrangler 4xe concept sports an onboard air compressor integrated into the tailgate, so you won’t have to worry about that after airing down to take on Moab or the Rubicon Trail.
It’s not a Jeep showcase without at least one throwback, right?
Kaiser Jeep M725 concept
In addition to all the modern builds, Jeep is usually good about including one throwback, and SEMA 2021 is no exception. Meet the 1967 Kaiser Jeep M725 military ambulance. This rig has been modified through Jeep Performance Parts (of course), to include LED headlamps, auxiliary LED off-road lights, modified rock rails and what have you.
The key to this concept is its 40-inch tires, wrapping 20×12-inch Black Rhino Armory wheels and sitting beneath custom, widened fenders. Jeep also reinforced the frame and replaced the old-school leaf springs with a heavy-duty coil suspension system. Even though it’s meant as the “ultimate off-road support machine”, it’s still rocking a 392-cubic-inch Hemi V8 under the hood. That crate engine is mated up to a vintage three-speed Torqueflite 727 automatic transmission, regarded by some as one of Chrysler’s best muscle car transmissions.
Inside, the Kaiser Jeep M725 SEMA build includes low-back Wrangler seats in tan canvas, a custom-made steering wheel and column, and a more modern gauge layout. A repurposed ammo box makes up the center console, which houses the levers for that Torqueflite automatic and the transfer case.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L Breckenridge Concept
This one hits a little differently than the others, since we’re actually in Colorado. And boy, did Jeep get the Breckenridge concept name right on the nose with this Grand Cherokee L. Thank of it as a swankier, ski trip-ready version of the brand’s new three-row GC. Two-tone Magnetite and gloss black paint scheme, satin bronze accents and 21-inch Mopar wheels are just the tip of the iceberg. This concept also has dual Mopar cross bars atop which Jeep fitted a piano black Thule cargo box to house some of your skiing or snowboarding gear.
Inside, the blue/black/bronze motif continues pretty much unabated, from the seats to the lower fascia, steering wheel, HVAC vents and dashboard. Jeep talks up the custom colors and premium materials, not least of which are those “Atmospheric Blue” Palermo leather seats.
Stainless steel pedal covers and Mopar all-weather floor mats (again, we’re talking ski season concept here) cap off the interior touches on the Grand Cherokee L Breckenridge concept. This build even includes custom-branded Olivet hard-sheel luggage and blue comfort pillows for your trip.
We’ll have SEMA videos coming up on several TFL Studios channels early next week, but in the meantime check out some of our Jeep spread below!
Here’s why the new 2 Series coupe is still the most quintessential ‘BMW’ of the lineup.
In case you haven’t noticed, BMW is currently undergoing a radical (for them) design evolution noted for its transition of the signature, modestly-sized dual-kidney grille to something…else. BMW didn’t apply that thinking to its new 2 Series coupes, though, with either the 4-cylinder 230i and the 6-cylinder M240i. In our eyes, the 2 Series is where BMW’s heritage still shines brightest. Behind the wheel, the 2-Series is still where that old BMW magic still resides.
While we still need to wait for the hyper-tuned and taut M2 to roll out, for now we can make do with the M240i seen here. Power comes from an turbocharged inline-six good for 382 horsepower and routed through an 8-speed automatic transmission.
All-wheel drive distributes that power to 19-inch wheels. BMW claims the entire package can clock a 4.1-second 0-60 mph time and still return 26 MPG combined. Those are solid numbers for a sports coupe at any price. In this case, the M240i starts just under $50,000. The one featured in the video below lists for $57,295 including destination charge.
Revolution or evolution? Let’s look inside
We can’t say enough great things about the exterior style of the new M240i, the engine, or its exhaust note—switching from Normal Drive mode to Sport mode unleashes an ear-splitting growl out of the exhaust ports. Inside, however, we find the dash layout to be up-to-date instead of revolutionary. A digital gauge cluster and infotainment center looks “evolutionary,” as Tommy says in the video below. But that may be by design? The interior still looks like a BMW, much like the exterior, which we’re so enamored with.
Check out Roman and Tommy’s video and see for yourself. Then let us know in the comments what you think? Styling aside, the M240i checks all the boxes for one sweet performance ride.
Dodge is hitting SEMA 2021 with this Challenger Holy Guacamole concept. (Images: Stellantis)
Just wait until you see the interior.
Oh, Dodge. Say what you will about the 13-year-old Challenger, but the brand’s dealers still manage to move upwards of 50,000 examples every single year. I’m convinced that’s down to the general attitude when it comes to marketing this car — the Challenger a piece of badass Americana with some weird, wacky and wonderful names to really stick in peoples’ minds. “Hellcat” and “Demon” easily cover the badass side, while you could also pick from colors like “Plum Crazy” (at least you could in previous years), “Go Mango”, “Hellraisin” and “Sinamon Stick”.
And now? It’s time for Holy Guacamole — a Challenger build that’s coming to the 2021 SEMA event in Las Vegas next week.
That is really what Dodge is going with this time around, and to be clear it is a concept at this point. Dodge says that the Holy Guacamole Challenger is meant to be a 1970s throwback. It’s a treatment that “showcases the ultimate in heritage design and modern Dodge attitude.” But, you know, it just wouldn’t be Dodge if they didn’t have fun with the name. The designers evidently (affectionately) named this Challenger “Rotten Avocado” — if that gives you some idea of where their minds were at on this one.
On the outside, Holy Guacamole is actually fairly restrained as a bespoke color. It brings in a more modestly-toned green that doesn’t quite scream like Gold Rush, Gold Mango or TorRed do.
Building on a 50th Anniversary Challenger
Dodge took a limited-run 2020 Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody 50th Anniversary Edition (quite a mouthful, isn’t it?) as a base, then added some more unique touches beyond the paint. The Challenger Holy Guacamole concept gets a csutom “Gold School” Shaker hood scoop, subtle tone-on-tone side stripes, and 20-inch Forgeline wheels.
Under the skin, this concept also gets a Mopar coil-over lowering kit, as well as a cold-air intake and conical air filter for the 485 horsepower, 6.4-liter Hemi V8.
As for the interior? Yeah, it’s anything but subtle. The Dodge team fitted the Holy Guacamole concept with green-and-yellow plaid seats and door inserts that make it hard to look at anything else. Eventually, your eyes will move away from that part of the interior, and straight toward the wood panel trim. Admittedly, the 1970 Dodge Challenger arrived well before my time, but I’m sure this tribute will make some folks out there nostalgic.
This is far from the only vehicle Stellantis is bringing to SEMA 2021, so check out more from Jeep and Ram as well! Speaking of SEMA, this is still one of the builds I remember most over the past few years:
Even with all the improvements, Toyota kept the GR 86’s price in check. (Images: Toyota)
A price tag under $30,000 is a breath of fresh air these days.
It’s an inescapable fact that cars will get more expensive with each new generation, though it seems like the constant trim shuffling and repackaging makes that even more painfully clear these days. On the luxury side of the spectrum, take the new Range Rover — it’s now $105,350 to start, or $12,000 more than the old model. Now, the 2022 Toyota GR 86 was never going to be that much more expensive than the old car (or it would be in the same field as the Supra). Still, you expect an all-new model to hit your wallet substantially harder. In this case, though, it doesn’t: The 2022 Toyota GR 86 kicks off at just $28,725, including destination.
That’s a $710 larger hit than the previous generation went out on, at least going by MSRP. For what it’s worth to you, that’s also $230 less expensive than the new Subaru BRZ. These days, that’s nothing even close to a reliable indicator of the actual sale price. Nevertheless, at least Toyota intends this car to attract buyers with a sub-$30,000 price tag, so the affordable sports car is still accessible to a budget-conscious audience.
2022 Toyota GR 86 pricing breaks out by two available transmissions and two trim levels. Sticking with the base car, the 6-speed GR 86 starts at $28,725, while the automatic adds $1,500 to the price tag ($30,225).
Opting for the GR 86 Premium adds 18-inch black aluminum alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, UltraSuede upholstery and an 8-inch touchscreen with an 8-speaker audio system, among some more aesthetic tweaks. Stepping up to the Premium trim level brings the MSRP up to $31,325 for the manual transmission, or $32,825 with the automatic. That still sits in the same ball park as a well-equipped Mazda MX-5 Miata — and you get more power here.
The new GR 86 brings in more power
Whichever trim you get, the 2022 Toyota GR 86 brings in a larger, more powerful 2.4-liter boxer engine. The output has gone up to 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, while the 0-60 times have gone down to 6.1 seconds for the manual transmission, and 6.6 seconds for the automatic.
The R232 Mercedes-AMG SL is a different animal to its predecessors, as it’s sticking purely with performance variants — the old non-AMG nameplates have been dropped. (Photos: Mercedes-Benz)
Meet the all-new, AMG-only SL roadster.
After skipping the 2021 model year, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL brings the roadster back for a seventh generation, which quite a few fundamental changes under the evolutionary styling. While we typically see the performance AMG variants roll out on the far end of Mercedes’ new model launches — with the latest C-Class and EQS being two examples — we’re seeing this new SL-Class roll out in classic SL 55 and SL 63 forms. That’s because Mercedes’ performance arm developed the new car independently, so if you’re looking for the latest version of a roadster spanning nearly seven decades, you’ll have to go with the performance models.
Not that the automaker’s decision to do that is a bad idea, by any stretch. These cars squarely target Porsche’s 911 Carrera 4S and 911 Turbo cabriolets, and it’s always fun to have more choice in that segment. Both cars come powered by AMG’s hand-built 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8, with differing power outputs depending on whether you get the SL 55 or the SL 63. If you go for the 55, you’ll get 469 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The 63, on the other hand, manages 577 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. That makes the new SLs good for 0-60 runs in 3.8 and 3.5 seconds respectively, according to Mercedes. As with the 4.0-liter V8’s other applications, these cars get a 9-speed automatic transmission.
More important than the sheer power output from the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL this time around, though, is how it delivers that power. AMG is fitting both cars with its performance-oriented 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system for the first time, so your new SL won’t just fire all that V8 grunt at the rear axle alone. Mind you, the system can obviously vary torque in either direction, so there’s still a chance you can hang it out if you’re driving at a location where you can actually (safely) take the new car to its physical limit.
Other performance and quality-of-life features
The 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 55 and SL 63 also get Active Ride Control in this generation. The system uses hydraulic elements in place of mechanical anti-roll bars to more quickly react and keep the body flat while cornering, while also allowing a softer setting for a more comfortable ride over bumps and while driving straight ahead. Those hydraulics also feed the front axle lift system, so the new SL has an easier time managing speed bumps or steep driveways. Finally, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL gets standard rear-axle steering, allowing the rear wheels to turn in either direction depending on your speed, for more agile handling or a tighter turning circle.
In its generational leap, the new SL-Class is larger than the model it replaces. Both cars ride on a 106.3-inch wheelbase (up from 101.7 inches), while the overall length grows to 185.2 inches. These new cars are also taller (53.5 inches in height) and wider (75.4 inches) than their predecessors.
Inside, the new 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL models see similar changes to the rest of Mercedes’ recently revamped lineup. That includes a fully digital instrument cluster, prominent infotainment display and the addition of the brand’s MBUX system. The cars also get augmented video navigation, as well as the usual driver assistance systems like Active Distance Assist, Stop-and-Go Assist, Steering Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist, among several others.
Availability
Naturally, pricing is not available yet for the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL models. That will come closer to the market launch, which Mercedes says is coming in the first half of next year.
The 2023 Kia Sportage is following in its larger Sorento sibling’s footsteps with more rugged ‘X-Pro’ trims. (Images: Kia)
More details on the U.S. model 2023 Kia Sportage have arrived.
We’ve already seen the car earlier this year as it made its Korean debut — new platform, new styling and all. What we didn’t yet know is what sort of powertrains, trims and features to expect when the car reaches our shores, but that changes today. This time around, the fifth-generation Sportage — based on the same “N3” architecture as nearly all updated Hyundai/Kia models including the Sorento, Santa Fe and Tucson — is taking a bold new tack. Not just in styling, but in trim philosophies and powertrains.
In terms of numbers, the new Sportage is in fact larger than the outgoing car. It’s gained 7.1 inches in overall length, and rides on a wheelbase 3.4 inches longer than the old model. That helps it achieve 41.3 inches of rear legroom — pretty cavernous for a small crossover — as well as a best-in-class 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space, with the rear seats in place. The fifth-gen model also packs a wider stance, as it’s half an inch taller and wider than the previous generation.
Here’s a look at the rear of the 2023 Kia Sportage.
One engine at launch (with more on the way)
When it arrives in the first quarter of 2022, the new Kia Sportage will also share its launch engine with the Hyundai Tucson. Out goes the old 2.4-liter mill, and in its place is a slightly more potent, 2.5-liter engine. The updated powerplant puts out 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, sending its power to the front wheels or all four through an 8-speed automatic transmission. To make it more dirt-worthy, all-wheel drive Sportages gain 1.5 inches in ground clearance over the outgoing model, bringing it up to a decent 8.3 inches. Not quite as much clearance as a Subaru Forester, but at least it’s now in the ball park.
At the moment, Kia has not shared information on additional powertrains, but did mention that a hybrid model is in fact coming. Based on the 2.5-liter revelation, we can more or less expect a Sportage Hybrid to mirror the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, pairing a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine to an electric motor for a total output around 226 horsepower. It’s unclear whether that will be the direct replacement for the old 2.0-liter turbo option — we’ll have to wait and see there.
The 2023 Kia Sportage retains its trim structure from before (this is the SX model), but gains a few more options at the top end.
New X-Line and X-Pro trims
Like before, the 2023 Kia Sportage kicks off at the base LX trim. From there, you climb the range through EX and SX. This time around, though, it gains the SX-Prestige trim like the Sorento, with more choice options. Some higher-end models gain access to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment display, as well as an available 360-degree camera, Harman Kardon premium audio system, wireless charging and an available Wi-Fi hotspot. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability come standard across the range.
As well as all the driver assistance tech you’d expect these crossovers to carry (Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keep and Lane Follow Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance, Park Distance Warning and a host of optional safety tech features), the 2023 Kia Sportage also brings a few new trims to the table.
The Sportage X-Line brings in standard all-wheel drive, as well as a few unique touches to give it a more rugged look. You get unique front and rear bumpers, side mirrors, a bespoke roof rack and window surrounds finished in gloss black. The raised roof rack rails offer some more flexibility for adventure gear, though we hesitate slightly in our off-road ambitions when we see “19-inch wheels” as part of the package, which the X-Line has.
The interior of the 2023 Kia Sportage X-Pro.
Then there’s the X-Pro trim, which gives you some more hardware to actually make your Sportage more off-road worthy. Smaller 17-inch wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, for example, help a bit over the other AWD Sportage trims. As ever, the X-Pro (and those other AWD trims) do get a locking center differential with an electro-hydraulic coupling to split the power between the front and rear wheels.
The X-Pro also brings in LED fog llights, as well as a heated windshield and wiper washer nozzle for winter conditions. An X-Pro Prestige model brings in some more luxurious features like standard LED projector headlights, ventilated front seats and an 8-way power adjustable passenger seat.
Pricing?
Since we’re still a couple months off from the 2023 Kia Sportage hitting dealers, exact pricing isn’t available yet. The current model starts just north of $25,000, so I’d expect the base LX model to kick off slightly higher. As for trims like the SX-Prestige, X-Line and X-Pro, you could fairly estimate that they’ll occupy the mid-to-upper-$30,000 brackets.
Kia will build most U.S.-spec Sportage trims at its West Point, Georgia plant, alongside the Telluride, Sorento and K5 sedan.
If you’re looking for some comparison between this Sportage and the old one, check out our efforts to test the outgoing car’s towing prowess up the Ike Gauntlet in our “Tike Ike” series:
