After announcing the W12’s hybrid successor, Bentley says goodbye to the standalone 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8.
Despite a tougher electric car market and the automaker pushing its first full EV back to 2026, Bentley is still poised to pivot its brand away from large-displacement engines toward hybrid solutions. The company confirmed just yesterday that its long-lived 6.0-liter W12 engine will be replaced by a V8 hybrid powertrain in its new generation of “daily supercars”, but it also confirmed Thursday that its standalone twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 is out the door, as well. At least in its iconic Continental and Flying Spur models, the only way forward for the foreseeable future will be a hybrid option.
For the moment, Bentley only outright declared gas-only V8 options will cease in Europe, the United Kingdom and the Middle East by June. North American customers will be able to order these cars for a little longer, though the manufacturer did say an end-date for the V8 “will follow”.
Of course, even the hybrid option still uses that 4.0-liter V8…it’s just that you won’t be able to get the engine without an electric motor backing it up. To that end, the “new” V8 hybrid setup replacing the definitely-dead W12 will pack 740 horsepower, as well as 50 miles of all-electric driving range using the optimistic (by EPA figures, at least) WLTP standard.
Before we see the new electrified powertrain make its way into the Continental, Bentley’s only car that currently lacks a hybrid option, it officially announced “Edition 8” models of the Continental GT coupe, Continental GTC (convertible) and the Flying Spur sedan. These models are exclusive to the North American market, since we’re the only ones still eligible for V8s in the near future, and bring in a host of Mulliner personal commissioning options. Some special touches include more than 60 colors from the extended paint range, as well as Edition 8 motif throughout the car with bespoke badging, seat embroidery and scuff plates. Sticking with the seats, these limited-run models also get a Palm Fluting pattern that sets them apart from your standard Bentley models.
“Customers in the North American market will be able to secure one of the last, and most lavishly equipped [Edition 8] models”, Bentley says in its official announcement, further noting that deliveries will start “imminently”. The exact details are no less nebulous than that, including how much these special cars will cost. Since these are likely to become collector’s items, though, pricing is almost irrelevant. If you have the scratch to consider a Bentley in the first place, then you’ll probably be able to land one of these.
It’s the end of the road for another long-running American sedan.
American sedans are nearly extinct these days, as icons like the Ford Crown Victoria, Taurus and old-school Dodge Charger have rolled off into the sunset. SUVs have taken over the market, though one long-running marque has quietly carried on since its last revamp for the 2019 model year: the Chevrolet Malibu. After 60 years since the first example rolled off the assembly line, though, General Motors finally confirmed it would kill off its last remaining traditional sedan in November.
So, we will still see the midsize sedan that’s been a favorite among rental fleets continue its run at the Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas City for a few more months. After that, though, it will end Malibu production and pause assembly of the Cadillac XT4, which rolls out of the same plant, until late 2025 to retool for the new Chevy Bolt. (When plant improvements are done, GM will build both the Bolt and the XT4 on the same line). The automaker plans to drop $390 million to support the next-generation Bolt, which will ride on its new Ultium platform, unlike the last model.
GM cites consumer choice — which leans heavily toward cross-overs and large SUVs right now — as the driving force behind the Malibu’s demise. Mind you, the Malibu hasn’t fared as badly as Ford’s Fusion and Taurus sedans did before they’re demise, as the company still sold 32,749 in the first quarter of 2024 (again, thank fleet sales for that). Nevertheless, that only represents 8.4% of Chevrolet’s overall quarterly sales, where SUVs and trucks now reign supreme as the brand already killed off the Impala and the Sonic for the North American market in 2020.
With the Malibu’s departure, the only GM brand that still has sedans anywhere in the product mix is Cadillac. Notably, it’s also the only American luxury brand that still sells sedans at all, as the CT4 and CT5 face no direct rivals from Ford’s Lincoln brand or Chrysler. Stellantis does sell the Alfa Romeo Giulia, a compact executive sedan, but they are exclusively built in Italy.
Will there be a next-generation Malibu?
Buttressing GM’s point on consumers largely preferring SUVs, I’m sure a fair number of you folks out there clicked into this post and thought, “Wait, Chevy still makes the Malibu?”, since it’s been flying so far under the radar.
Reports are somewhat conflicted on whether the company plans to build a direct replacement. At the moment, there’s no direct confirmation, since automakers typically won’t comment on future product on a whim. However, some outlets including GM Authority note a Malibu replacement is in the cards for the 2026 or 2027 model year. If that does happen, then we may only see a single model year gap between the current model, which will get a final 2025 model later this year, and the next-generation version.
The Chevrolet Malibu first debuted back in 1964 as a higher-end model of the Chevelle, and only became its own model in 1978, during the fourth generation. GM initially canceled the Malibu after the 1983 model year, before bringing it back in 1997, as a midsize front-wheel drive car rather than a rear-wheel drive model like the A-Body and G-Body models were.
We’ll have to wait and see whether General Motors ultimately does bring a new Chevy Malibu into existence. Much like its American counterparts and the Subaru Legacy sedan, which is also bowing out after the 2025 model year, I wouldn’t hold my breath given the explosive demand for SUVs.
Off-roading is an overwhelming experience to explore the seldom-traveled ways; thus, one can stay up with nature’s tough practicality. This excitement comes along with the requisite—solid vehicle and good terrain. The range of different environmental spaces in the US from deserts to mountains may become a great place for people of any skill level to practice their off-roading skills. In this article we explore the top states for your offroad adventures, so you can make your options well planned.
Off-Roading Essentials
Before driving into the uncharted territory, you should first make sure your car is ready for the challenge. Therefore, it will involve examining the state of your off-road vehicle, understanding the terrain, and being aware of the local regulations. In addition to that, getting a car that is efficient in off-road terrain is not easy. Yet, finding the right vehicle can be as easy as exploring abetter.bid, where you can find a suitable match for your adventurous spirit.
Top States for Off-Roading Adventures
Utah
Utah is a synonym of off-road excitement. The leading gem in the state is Moab, with famous trails such as Hell’s Revenge and Moab Rim. Red rock landscapes not only bring formidable terrains but breathtaking landscapes as well. Besides Moab, the state offers various terrains, including the dunes of Little Sahara, and the trails of the Uintas mountains.
Beside Moab and its beautiful surroundings, Utah also features San Rafael Swell as an off-road option with varying terrain like rocky trails, gullies, and deserts. This spot gives you an unmatched combination of thrill and quietness, which makes it the perfect escape for the visitor seeking a quiet open space. The range in natural features allows the people of all skill levels to pick trails that are suitable for their level, organizing a fun experience for both the beginners and experts.
California
The whole state of California seems to be a realm for off-roading. From the desert trails of the Mojave to the shorelines of Pismo beach, there has been something for every off-roader. The national forest trails of the state can boast of huge networks of trails which range in difficulty from easy to hard, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
The Sierra Nevada’s unique topography diversifies the adventure of off-roading in California. The region provides you with a challenging hike in forests, over rocky paths and even snow covered in the winter time. A must-see for fanatic off-roaders, the famous Rubicon Trail which crosses the Sierra Nevada, presents one of the most difficult and impressive off-road adventures in the US. The path’s combination of daunting heights and breathtaking scenery provides for a thrilling hike that keeps your adrenaline and muscles pumping.
Colorado
As for the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, they are well-known for some of the most beautiful and exciting off-roading destinations in the USA. The Passes on Imogene and Engineer have thrilling terrain and bear historic sites, as well as magnificent panoramic views. This is due to the fact that the state’s year-round climate fluctuations enables certain mountains to become fairly accessible with corresponding seasons, and that is, year-round adventure possibilities.
Dwelling among Alpine scattering is the Alpine Loop, a picturesque off-road route that links the ancient towns of Ouray, Silverton and Lake City at large. These endless trails of sinewy loop are more intricate than only the difficult track; it’s a journey that moves along the time, showing up old mining camps and pure wilderness. The Loop is usually best recognized for its scenic wildflowers in the summer and its resplendent autumn hues. The visitors could venture out on nearly 60 miles of backcountry trails, every corner of which unveils a new landscape or a piece of a bit of the history of the state, and therefore this spot should be on every wish list for those off-road fans in search of both beauty and thrill in their adventures.
Arizona
The range of the different landscapes from deserts to forests in Arizona makes it the first choice for off-roading. The state consists of the famous Apache Trail and the steep tracks of Sedona. Arizona’s climate enables all-season off-roading, which is a big attraction for some people looking to get away from the cold weather.
Arizona as well has Monument Valley which enables off-road travelers to pass through the American West icons that consist of broad desert floors and pinnacled rock formations. This scenic location provides a challenge with sandy washes, rocky paths and at the same time you will see some of the most scenic and iconic Southwestern scenery. Apart from being an oasis for photographers, this area is also an ideal place for off-roaders who are looking to combine their passion for action with the magnificence of the landscape. In this area trails are suitable for drivers of different levels of skill. Thus it doesn’t matter whether you are a beginner or an experienced driver, you can find engaging and difficult courses.
Michigan
Michigan might seem strange, but the state has so much to offer when it comes off-roading, more especially in the Upper Peninsula. The Silver Lake Sand Dunes provide a thrilling, 2,000-acre dune area, which is free for off-road vehicles. The state also has a number of trails in its national forests that are well suited for beginners and advanced.
In addition to Drummond Island in Michigan which is also an excellent location for off-roading, there are more than 60 miles of ATV, ORV and jeep tracks to enjoy. Drummond Island has been labeled as Michigan’s perfect spot for off-roading, with trails that run through the woodlands, rocks and lovely beach lines. This area has a perfect combination of natural barriers and breathtaking views that attract all from the casual riders to the demanding bikers. The lake’s unique topography is allowing off-roaders to get the most of what Michigan’s wilderness offers, seeing up close its raw beauty as a must-see for those who wish to explore the lesser-known paths of the state.
Off-Roading Community and Conservation
Participating in off-roading can boost your experience. Local clubs and online platforms let us know about trail news, from weather conditions to future events. Moreover, keeping the environment in mind and following the “Leave No Trace” principles make sure that these magical places stay open and protected for the coming generations.
A number of off-roading communities are participating in conservation projects, as well as programs that are aimed at teaching the public about responsible off-roading practices. These organizations often carry out their activities in the form of clean-up projects and trail maintenance days where members get together to repair damages on trails and remove litter. By doing so, they ensure that natural ecological systems are protected and trails are in good and usable condition. The fact that lovers are engaged in these activities not only protects the environment but also enhances the solidarity among them. Participating in the off-roading culture enables people to protect their best trails for longer and enjoy the wilderness together in a responsible manner.
Gear and Preparation
The proper preparation is really what makes an off-roading trip successful. The basic equipment includes recovery equipment, navigation items, and safety gears. Keep someone informed about your travel plans and don’t go into unknown territories alone. Adequate preparation keeps not only you but also your journey secure and pleasant.
Furthermore, you need to have complete vehicle examination and maintenance in order to have a safe trip on the off-road. This includes testing the vehicle’s fluids, tire pressure, and suspension components to avoid failure in remote places. In the case of any unanticipated crisis, accumulating extra fuel, water, and emergency supplies like food, fire starter, and a first-aid kit can cost you your life. In addition, knowing your vehicle’s limits and your own driving style will keep you from accidents while still reducing your impacts on the environment. Carrying the right gear and understanding the weather patterns of the area you are exploring will help ensure your comfort and your safety during the expedition.
Off-roading is not just a hobby; it’s a journey on the way to the center of nature’s wild beauty. Utah, California, Colorado, Arizona and Michigan states are some of the best in providing terrains for those seeking a challenge beyond the common motor roads. Before embarking on your next off-road trip, keep in mind the significance of preparation, unity, and taking care of the environment. Walk the path, revere the land, and explore the awesome, rugged landscapes that America has to provide.
BMW is revamping its 2025 4 Series lineup, including a new M4 CS.
As performance-focused as BMW’s M cars tend to be, there’s always room to push harder. We know that because of the M4 CSL, and now there’s a new mid-range CS model for those track-minded drivers who want something special against your “typical” M4 coupe.
Compared to the standard BMW M4 Competition, the CS gets a more hardcore vibe by way of increased power, sharper chassis tuning and lower weight. Overall, the CS drops about 45 pounds from the Competition, thanks to what BMW says is the “extensive use of CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic).” Carbon fiber seats, shift paddles, trim pieces and center console all add up to those weight savings. The CS also gets a titanium silencer on the exhaust system, shaving off another eight pounds.
Carbon ceramic brakes and racing tires are options, if you really want to make your M4 CS a pure track weapon.
On the power front, the 2025 BMW M4 CS gets a boosted version of the S58 3.0-liter inline-six. Now, you get a total of 543 horsepower — up 20 from 523 in the standard M4 Competition — though you still get the same 479 lb-ft of torque. All that grunt makes its way through the usual 8-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. BMW notes the CS will do 0-60 in 3.2 seconds on its way to a 188 mph top speed. Or, if you’re keen to tackle the Green Hell, it’ll run the Nürburgring in less than 7:21.99, according to BMW’s official, notarized result.
Inside, the 2025 BMW M4 CS still gets the expected sporty treatment, with the aforementioned carbon fiber seats, carbon trim and Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel. Drivers get a 12.3-inch digital cluster behind that wheel, while the central 14.9-inch setup runs BMW’s latest version 8.5 operating system.
If you want a BMW M4 CS, it (unsurprisingly) will cost you. When production kicks off at Plant Dingolfing in Germany this July, M4 CS models will eventually make their way out to customers with at least a $124,675 price tag (including $1,175 destination), before any options. Order books for the 2025 BMW M4 CS open up later this month.
BMW plans to officially launch the new M4 CS this Friday, May 10, at both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship at Leguna Seca and the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps World Endurance Car race in Belgium.
Instead of its price increasing, the 2025 Genesis GV80 gets a new “Standard” trim level.
Each year, we’re used to suggested pricing for any given car going up. Sometimes its a modest increase, and sometimes it’s more of a gut punch, but Genesis is taking a different route with the GV80 SUV this time around. Instead of cutting a base model trim to effectively increase the barrier to entry, the automaker is actually creating a new trim called 2.5T Standard where the old 2.5T used to kick the range off.
Now, the 2.5T is still there, so this decision does create an awkward spot in the GV80’s trim walk. From 2.5T Standard, you move up to the 2.5T (with no secondary name behind it), then the Select, Advanced and Prestige. And if you’re thinking that Genesis could have done things the other way around, kept the 2.5T the base model, and made up a new name for “slightly more feature rich than the no-frills version”, so am I. Effectively, the new “Standard” trim locks you out of formerly baseline features like a heated steering wheel, Genesis’ digital key functionality, rear door sunshades, a second-row 110-volt AC outlet and a temporary spare tire. (That last one is an odd item to omit, isn’t it?). Those extra features will cost you $1,000, as you now need to move up to the 2.5T to get them back.
The 2025 Genesis GV80 still comes well-equipped, though, even at the base end. You still get leatherette seats, piano black trim, a loaded suite of driver assistance features, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 27-inch OLED instrument cluster and infotainment display, wireless phone charging, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, to name just a few. As you move up the stack, you’ll naturally get more features, all the way up to the Prestige’s heated rear seats, head-up display and active noise control.
Here’s a look at the full trim walk pricing (each trim includes Genesis’ $1,350 destination fee):
2.5T trims:
Standard: $59,050
2.5T: $60,050
Select (available summer 2024): $62,950
Advanced: $66,950
Prestige: $71,800
3.5T trims:
Advanced: $75,150
Prestige: $80,650
2.5-liter-equipped Genesis GV80 models manage a decent 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, while the more potent 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 manages 375 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. All models come with an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.
Most GV80 trims will hit dealerships in the next few weeks, while the 2.5T Standard and Select won’t be available until the summer.
Tesla laid off roughly 500 employees last week, and now there’s word of more job losses.
The electric car manufacturer made a major announcement last month saying it would cut slash its global workforce to rein in operating costs. It appears those efforts are ongoing, as the company brought another round of layoffs just last week effectively dissolving its charging department, responsible for development of its Supercharger network. A report from Electrek Monday noted the latest cuts in Tesla’s engineering, software development and service departments, according to an email citing anonymous sources close to the matter.
Those workers told the outlet that employees received alarming “employment status” emails over the weekend.
CEO Elon Musk has mentioned in previous company emails that the automaker is “restructuring for the next phase of growth”, saying that Tesla’s rapid growth — it hired more than 40,000 additional employees for more than 140,000 total between late 2021 and 2023 — was the driving force necessitating the layoffs. However, the company’s weaker sales volumes in early 2024 are also likely to have contributed to the decision, as Tesla posted worse-than-expected financial results in its latest earnings report.
Some divisions within Tesla are experiencing far worse than the 10% figure early reports last month noted. In fact, certain areas could see up to a 20% reduction in staff by the time these layoffs have abated. That said, it doesn’t appear the cuts are going to let up, at least not in the immediate future.
All the while, Tesla is aiming to ramp up production and deliveries of its latest model, the Cybertruck, which TFL Studios bought and has been testing over the past couple weeks, including in the road trip video below. We do wonder how these cuts are going to impact the ownership experience in the coming months, and will provide what updates we can as we know more (either firsthand or through subsequent announcements or news reports).
The new CLE53 will get its drop-top variant later this year.
If you’re looking for a roadster that’s a bit more affordable than the six-figure SL, the CLE lineup is where you’ll want to look. This car replaces the old C- and E-Class Cabriolets, either in the base CLE300, CLE450 form or this AMG CLE53. Mercedes officially revealed the latter on Monday, with the sort of performance flavor you’d expect. Not only do you get a beefier version of the brand’s 3.0-liter turbocharged, mild-hybrid M256M inline-six, but you also get standard active rear wheel steering and performance-tuned 4Matic all-wheel drive.
Under the hood, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE53 Cabriolet gets the same 443 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque as the coupe. The convertible variant sends power to all four wheels through a 9-speed automatic transmission in 4.3 or 4.1 seconds, which is just a tenth of a second off the hard-roof model. That smaller acceleration time makes use of the car’s temporary overboost feature, which bumps the boost pressure up to 22 psi (and therefore torque, up to 443 lb-ft) for up to ten seconds.
Being the AMG model, this beefed up CLE gets larger brakes, with 14.6-inch drilled and ventilated rotors at the front, and 14.2-inch ventilated rotors at the rear. Engineers set up the suspension to be stiffer off the bat, but you also get adaptive shocks to further adjust the firmness to your liking. 19-inch wheels come standard, while you can upgrade to 20-inch units to fill out the wider fenders for a more aggressive stance if you so desire.
On the styling front, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE53 tracks with the coupe as well as the rest of the brand’s revamped lineup. You get sharper headlights up front as well as a large grille with the classic AMG vertical slats. Around back, the design largely tracks with the base CLEs apart from quad exhaust outlets and a different rear diffuser. Instead of the fastback-like roofline, you obviously get the canvas roof instead.
Looking inside the CLE Cabriolet
As for the interior, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE53 Cabriolet gets the same layout as the coupe. Changes from the standard models include sportier bucket seats, contrast stitching on the seats, center console and instrument panel, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster display with an adjacent, vertically situated 11.9-inch touchscreen.
If you’re looking to spice your CLE up even further, there are more options on the list once you land on the CLE53 convertible in the first place. You can get the Dynamic Plus package that adds a Race drive mode, active engine mounts and red brake calipers, as well as an AMG Performance steering wheel, as shown above.
Pricing for the new AMG CLE53 has not been announced yet, but expect it to sit at the highest point in the lineup. It will still be several thousand dollars cheaper than the SL, but we expect it to land somewhere in the $80,000 range.
The first questions/statements come from our fans (former fans) and viewers who can’t fathom why we bought a Cybertruck. Here are a few – but there’s hundreds.
Q (YouTube): Not sure I could trust a company that can’t make a gas pedal or a hubcap… @CarswithNash
I fear this will not be one of the best choices at TFL. The buzz has waned. I hope I’m wrong because this is my favourite channel period.@Saddest1Gtown
The Cyber Junk looks so small compared to the othwr trucks..yet the Cyber junk costs more..smh @Jolene580
Two weeks ago every influencer…..why is my Tesla taking so long ???….this week LOOK!!!@Sambonedallas
Done with you guys and your stupid purchases! Cybertruck is garbage! I know a idiot when I seen a idiot because I am a idiot! @WasDogTrainer
Question is will it brick like the hummer did @Bugman687
The very definition of Anti-Climax. Sorry for your loss. (100K) God be with you.@Enigma8750
Why in god’s name did you monkeys get a Cybertruck? At least get something better like a Rivian! @NetCarbs_67
Add this to the Land Rover pile@Aldeeezzy
Funny how all these YouTubers said they’ll cancel their order and boom couple weeks later they all go pick up the cyber truck. @moosc
The Cybertruck is old news. It’s been done to death and I’m bored with it already.@Blipco5
… and this only took a few minutes to find.
A: Look people, folks are still curious about the Cybertruck –
Honestly, I was happy to take a pass. It’s about double of what I was (initially) promised it would cost. In addition, it’s rought around the edges in SO many ways. Still, can you think of another vehicle that is as polarizing as the Cybertruck? There is a ton of interest as to how it will perform once the proper 4WD upload comes in OTA.
We will continue to get flak – and it doesn’t matter if we love it, hate it or manage to find soms sort of middle ground. Many of you will throw venom our way, regardless. Some “journalists” will take our findings and editorial out of context, good or bad. We’re expecting this.
Cybertruck, and Tesla fanboys will cure every negative and cheer every positive comment. We’re expecting this as well. Anti EV owners will hate every postiive result, and cheer every criticism. We’re expecting this too. Our accountant will want our head(s) on a platter, and local kids will find us old men – fascinating.
We’re expecting all of this, however; we expect people WILL be interested one way or the other.
Were you expecting anything less from us?
– N
The next question comes from a fan who is comparing the Yukon vs the Wagoneer.
Q (via: AskNathan@TFL.com) RE: Yukon vs Wagoneer.
Hello,
1st off I love watching your videos!
My wife and I are trying to decide on a vehicle between the yukon an wagoneer.
I’m really impressed withe the wagoneers ride and off road capability, however I’m concerned with the reputation Jeep has with mechanical issues.
What are your thoughts on these two vehicles?
Thanks
Jim
A: This is a comparison I hope we can pull off soon, especially with the new I6 Hurricane engine in the Wagoneer.
The Yukon base is $58,200 – and a well equipped (mid-level) SLT 4WD runs just a hair under $71,000.It comes with a 5.3-liter V8 makes 355 hp and 383 lbs ft of torque. There is a vaunted diesel option, but it’s extremely pricy. MOG sits at 15 city and 20 mpg highway – and it has up to 7,900-lbs towing.
The Wagoneer base starts at $62,945 – and a well equipped (mid-level) Series II runs about $74,000. The standard 3.0-liter, twin-turbo I6 makes 420 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. It’s rated at 16 mpg city, and 23 mpg highway. It’s su[pposed to have up to (a class-leading) 10,000-lbs towing.
On papaer, other than the price, the Wagoneer is supperior. Conmsidering that the new Hurricane hasn’t been around long enough to rate its long-term reliability, it’s a bit of a roll of the dice. It’s a lot more powerful, and it’s especially noticable at higher elevation. It’s also a bit more efficient. Still, it’s an unproven quantity.
While looks, and overall styling are subjective, I can say that the interior of the Wagoneer feels more primium. My prefrences may be different than yours. I tend to gravitate to the least expensive option. In addition, the Chevy’s overall reliability seems to make it a tad compelling.
Still, that Wagoneer is a powerhouse!
It’s kind of a tossup.
– N
The last question comes from a family man who needs a proper 4×4 that can hold his (tall) family, and dogs.
Q: (Via: AskNathan@TFL.com)
Hi TFL Team –
I’ve been a long-time watcher and enjoy your content. I’m struggling to narrow down a reasonably priced vehicle to meet our needs. I’m hoping you’ll give me some thoughts.
I’m looking to purchase at the end of the year as my current prepaid lease is up in February 2025. I leased because I didn’t want to be locked into the car beyond three years because of the fluctuations in vehicle cost/availability at the time (the first and last time I would lease). I’m just starting to research the next vehicle but am struggling with refining it down to 2 or 3 vehicles that meet our family needs. I like to narrow it down to 2 or 3 and then see what I can get the best deal on within my price range.
I’m looking for something that can haul 4-5 tall people, plus a couple of dogs occasionally. It has to accommodate 6 feet plus as my wife is the shortest at 5’10”, and the kids and I are all over 6’ (6’ to 6’3”). Not large framed but tall. We also do 1-2 long road trips to Colorado up in the mountains (Lake City) a year, including going over passes (like Engineer) on the back trails if the weather permits. In the past, we have done this in 4×4 trucks and a Sequoia. We still have the 2014 Sequoia, but it is getting to be high mileage (even for a Toyota), and we’re planning on giving it to our son for his car, as it’s fine for local driving.
So, I’m looking for a good road trip vehicle comfortable for 4-5 folks around 6’ tall with a true 4-wheel drive and at least a center-locking differential. I was excited about the new Tacoma, 4 Runner, and Land Cruiser, but their prices seem ridiculously high. Plus, I’m worried about the mid-size pickups’ backseat comfort, especially after y’all produced the video comparing every manufacturer brand in the segment. I was hoping to keep the OTD in the 50s or low 60s and for it to be a reliable, long-lasting car. Normally, we like to keep our cars for about 10 years.
I would appreciate the help.
Thanks and best –
Ben
A: Hi Ben, I think the previous email might interest you as well (Yukon vs Wagoneer).
With that being said, there are other (less expensive) alternatives. I looked at the Ford Expedition, new Toyota Sequoia and Tahoe, among others, but they are pretty steep and have a few issues. I found the Sequoia’s passenger seating for tall people to be so-so. A decently equipped Expedition or Chevrolet Tahoe is still going to hit the $60,000+ mark OTD – easily.
It’s a shame, as both are strong contenders. Still, there is one SUV that may check all the boxes, but you must see if you fit properly. I’m referring to the Nissan Armada. A well equipped 2023 Nissan Armada SV hits the $60,000 mark, and a 4WD S sits in the mid $50,000 zone. There are still 2023 models on dealership lots, so you may be able to get them to deal.
I would not recommend the 2024 models as they have a huge price increase, with few benefits. Yes, there is an all-new model coming. One that will have a lot more power, be more efficient – and should be pricier too. The old 5.6-liter V8 is still a great engine, and they have a fairly good reputation for overall strength.
One thing to note: the interior is a bit unusual. Some tall folks are fine up front, but others may not be as comfortable. Case in point: I’m shorter than Roman and Andre, yet I find the driving position a bit confining. Andre and Roman call me a big baby and seem much happier in the driver’s seat.
It’s all up to the driver’s preference.
There is one more option, one that isn’t exactly an “off-roader,” but it’s something that has gobs of space, AND has the potential for good off-highway performance – for a crossover. I am talking about the new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71. Forget the other models, this one has a beefier AWD system that might fit the bill. A well equipped model comes in under $50,000.
Roman just bought one of the most hated modern Land Rovers to prove a point: Even this SUV doesn't suck! Or maybe it does...that's what we're going to find out in our latest project series.
In this week’s Ask Nathan:
Adaptive features might be the next step for future pickup trucks?
Will EVs get even faster?
Building trucks with adaptive features...
