New Land Rover DEFENDER – Durability
The 2022 Land Rover Defender might look reminiscent of the 1950s original, but in reality it is a completely modern, high-tech off-roader with unique curb appeal. A trio of engines is offered—a turbocharged four-cylinder, a turbo-and-supercharged six-cylinder, and a supercharged V-8—and all come standard with four-wheel drive. The Defender can be had in two-door 90 and four-door 110 body styles, and advanced-duty off-roading equipment is available on all models, including an adjustable air suspension and locking differentials. There aren't many SUVs that are as capable as the Defender, and they mostly come from Land Rover's lineup. Some may consider the Jeep Wrangler a cheaper alternative, but the Defender has it beat when it comes to on-road refinement and available luxury appointments.
Land Rover is introducing a V-8 engine into the Defender lineup for 2022: the 518-hp Supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 that's found in the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models. The V-8 will be available on both the two-door 90 and four-door 110 models; a high-end Carpathian Edition model will also sport the V-8 engine. The package enhances the Defender with Carpathian Gray exterior paint with a black-painted roof and tailgate, black-painted tow hooks, Xenon Blue brake calipers, and special Carpathian Edition badging. A new XS trim is available on 110 models and bundles a host of luxury and convenience features together including heated-and-cooled front seats, leather-and-cloth upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, an adjustable air suspension, and adaptive cruise control. Land Rover is also introducing a new, optional 11.4-inch infotainment display this year and will offer even more accessory exterior packages for customization. An even larger, three-row Defender 130 model is on the horizon, but we aren't sure when that SUV may debut. The Trophy Edition model also joins the lineup this year, but only 220 examples will be available and they all come with a complimentary entry to a Land Rover off-road competition in North Carolina that will take place in fall 2021.
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All Electric Concept Mercedes Maybach EQS
Overview
Ultra-luxury is about to go electric with the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, which was previewed by a concept car at the 2021 Munich auto show. The EQS SUV’s electric powertrain will come standard with all-wheel drive, is said to offer around 370 miles of driving range per charge, and is sure to deliver massive power and acceleration. The concept model was shown with gorgeous 24-inch wheels, flashy exterior styling elements, and a most deluxe cabin featuring faux-fur carpeting, a flower vase, and rose-gold trim. Mercedes tells us that the concept vehicle is a one-off but also representative of what we can expect from the production model. The EQS SUV shares its platform with the electric Benz-branded EQS and EQE sedans.
What's New for 2023?
The EQS SUV will be a new model for the Mercedes-Maybach brand and, while it will launch after a toned-down Mercedes-Benz sister model, we expect to see it reach production for the 2023 model year.
With a starting price deep into six-figure territory, we expect the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV to offer just about every luxury as standard, although a few options and customization features will likely be offered for an additional fee.
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2022 Hyundai PALISADE
Overview
Hyundai's Palisade SUV aims for a class-above experience and nearly nails it, especially on upper trims where its cabin could be confused for one of the Genesis brand's luxury vehicles. It's not a Genesis, despite the look and feel, and instead shares its platform with the also-excellent Kia Telluride. A smooth-running 3.8-liter V-6 is standard and is mated to an eight-speed automatic; front-wheel drive is the base setup, but all-wheel drive is also available. A generous amount of equipment is standard, including a ton of high-tech driver assists and modern infotainment connectivity features. The cabin is as roomy as it is comfortable and offers seating for up to eight passengers within the standard three-row layout.
What's New for 2022?
Hyundai has made several active safety equipment standard across the Palisade lineup for 2022, including rear cross-traffic collision avoidance and blind-spot collision avoidance, which intervene if the associated alerts of potential obstacles are ignored by the driver. All models also now come with side mirrors that feature integrated turn signals. On the top-spec Calligraphy model, the dark-brown leather upholstery is no longer offered.
Our Palisade of choice would be the mid-range SEL with the Premium package. All-wheel drive costs $1700, but consumers in more temperate climates could forgo this choice. With the Premium package, our SEL Palisade slides in just under $43,000. It still offers much of the SUV's best tech and luxury features, including the larger 10.3-inch infotainment system, in-dash navigation, and Hyundai's semi-autonomous driving mode. If you're considering going with an all-wheel-drive version of the Limited—which comes nicely equipped with nappa leather seating surfaces, heated and ventilated first and second rows, a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system, just to name a few items—we suggest taking a look instead at the top-level Calligraphy, which costs only $925 more and comes standard with all-wheel drive.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Palisade is powered by a 3.8-liter V-6. Coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the engine's 291 horsepower is adequate for this application. The Palisade's transmission can be manually shifted with steering-wheel-mounted paddles. The gearbox shifts smoothly on its own, but there's some busy shuffling of the ratios when climbing hills. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is optional on SE, SEL, and Limited trim levels; it's standard on the range-topping Calligraphy. All Palisades come standard with a robust transmission cooler and trailer pre-wiring and sway control. It can tow up to 5000 pounds when equipped with the dealer-installed trailer hitch. We tested an all-wheel-drive SEL, and it delivered adequate—if unexceptional—test results at our test track. In our testing, the Palisade went from zero to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds, and the Palisade needed 182 feet to stop from 70 mph. It proved to be slightly quicker than the Telluride but slower than the Chevrolet Traverse.
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Mazda MX 30 EV - Uphill Battle
Overview
Mazda's first all-electric vehicle is the MX-30 SUV, which sports a stylish exterior and simplistic cabin, but fails to deliver adequate driving range. The sharp exterior design provides a coupe-like roofline and rear-hinged back doors similar to those found on the BMW i3 electric car. The EV Mazda SUV comes with a 30.0-kWh battery pack that's good for up to 100 miles of driving range; a 143-hp electric motor drives the front wheels and acceleration isn't nearly as perky as rival EVs such as the Chevrolet Bolt, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, or the Tesla Model 3, all of which offer more than twice the driving range of the Mazda. At first, the MX-30 will be offered for sale only in California before expanding to other states.
What's New for 2022?
Not only is the MX-30 an all-new model for Mazda, it marks the first time the Japanese automaker has experimented with an all-electric powertrain. It's similarly sized to the current CX-30 crossover, but borrows the MX nomenclature of the MX-5 Miata, which is a clue to that the MX-30 offers poised handling and a fun-t0-drive nature.
The MX-30 is offered in base and Premium Plus trims, but its prices are higher than mainstream rivals such as the Bolt and the Nissan Leaf. The Premium Plus model adds a lot of equipment, including active blind-spot assist, front cross-traffic alert, a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, a heated steering wheel, a 360-degree exterior camera system, and more.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The all-electric MX-30 comes with one 143-hp electric motor that drives the front wheels; all-wheel drive isn't available. However, we've also learned that there will be a plug-in-hybrid version that'll launch later and will pair an electric motor with a rotary gasoline engine, so perhaps all-wheel drive is still on the table. As its low horsepower rating suggests, the MX-30's acceleration isn't up to par with more powerful rivals and at our test track, it needed 8.7 seconds to reach 60 mph. The chassis is playful and steering is sharp, which is what we expect from a modern Mazda. That eager handling is what earns this SUV the MX in its name, a prefix which is shared only with the brand's MX-5 Miata sports car.
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New Mazda CX 9 2022
Overview
Combining a handsome exterior, a near-luxury interior, and a surprisingly fun-to-drive nature, the 2022 Mazda CX-9 is the three-row crossover for buyers who'd rather be driving a Miata but can’t live with a car that’s so space-challenged. The CX-9’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate acceleration, but its chassis is what delivers its trademark driving verve. The CX-9’s crisp steering and sporty cornering attitude remind us more of a sports sedan than an SUV. Inside, occupants are treated to a premium cabin but the third row is admittedly cramped, especially in comparison to roomier rivals such as the Hyundai Palisade, the Kia Telluride, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. Still, this trade-off seems worth it to us as driving enthusiasts, and we expect other likeminded folks will see it the same way.
What's New for 2022?
A new mid-range Touring Plus trim joins the CX-9 lineup for 2022. It comes with all of the equipment from the Touring model but adds ventilated front seats, power adjustments for the driver's seat, black-painted 20-inch wheels, black grille trim, aluminum-colored roof rails, and a frameless rearview mirror. Elsewhere in the lineup, all-wheel drive is now standard.
Of the CX-9's four trim levels, the Touring model represents the best value. It offers plenty of niceties, including a power-operated rear liftgate, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and keyless entry with push-button start. To get the CX-9's new second-row captain's chairs—a feature many three-row SUV buyers want—opt for the Touring Premium package, which also adds two additional USB ports in the third row, a Bose audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, fog lamps, front and rear parking sensors, and second-row window sunshades.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
In a segment where V-6 power is common, Mazda took a risk by offering a turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the CX-9's sole powertrain in the hope of a gain in fuel-economy. It does eke out an advantage over some competitors, but it's slight. The engine sounds gutsy and managed a class-competitive result in our acceleration testing, where it scooted our Grand Touring test vehicle from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The 2021 CX-9 is clearly the driving enthusiast's family hauler; surprisingly light on its feet, it often feels as if you're driving a smaller SUV. The suspension is firm, but it's still supple enough riding over rough stretches of road. The steering, while not as communicative as other Mazda’s, still imparts vigor that's missing from other crossovers. The firm suspension and accurate steering culminate in superior cornering control.
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2022 Range Rover Evoque – The Original Luxury Compact SUV Evolved
Overview
The 2022 Range Rover Evoque has a style stranglehold on its subcompact luxury SUV competitors, but its charms fall victim to practical downfalls such as its puny cargo area and snug rear-seat space. While the interior is well tailored and nicely outfitted, several dimensionally smaller rivals offer roomier cabins with similar equipment. Two available turbocharged engines are available and all-wheel drive is standard, but the Evoque's handling is less agile than SUVs such as the BMW X1, the Mercedes-Benz GLB-class, and the Volvo XC40. However, those crossovers can feel a bit more like pumped up hatchbacks than SUVs, and the Land Rover's off-roading heritage trickles down to the Evoque in the form of a tall riding position and a substantial feeling that makes it undeniably an SUV.
What's New for 2022?
A sporty-looking HST R-Dynamic trim joins the options sheet for 2022. The HST R-Dynamic also reintroduces the 296-hp P300 turbocharged four-cylinder engine back into the Evoque lineup. In addition to the more powerful powertrain, the HST R-Dynamic trim also includes unique glossy black 20-inch wheels, a black-painted roof, black exterior trim, and red brake calipers. All Evoque models now come with heated seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a power-operated rear liftgate, and keyless entry as standard equipment. Ostuni Pearl White replaces Yulong White on the color palette.
We'd go with the mid-range R-Dynamic SE model as it adds features such as a power liftgate, 14-way power-adjustable front seats, automatic high-beam headlamps with auto-leveling, LED daytime running lights, and 20-inch wheels. We'd also fork over the extra cash for the Online Pack option package.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Evoque is powered by a 246-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder dubbed P250, and it comes standard with a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. At our test track, the Evoque delivered a 7.1-second zero-to-60-mph run. Rivals such as the BMW X1 and the Volvo XC40 delivered slightly quicker times, but the Land Rover is still competitively lively. The more powerful P300 powertrain is limited to the top-spec HST R-Dynamic. That engine makes a stout 296 horsepower and is assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system; at our test track the P300 managed a 6.6-second zero-to-60-mph time. On the road, there's no mistaking the Evoque for a hatchback car as you can with the X1. It feels substantial, and the seat height is SUV appropriate; it handles corners adequately but won't satisfy enthusiast drivers in the same way as the BMW or Mercedes-Benz GLA-class.
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New 2022 Land Rover Defender - Walkaround and Review
The 2022 Land Rover Defender might look reminiscent of the 1950s original, but in reality it is a completely modern, high-tech off-roader with unique curb appeal. A trio of engines is offered—a turbocharged four-cylinder, a turbo-and-supercharged six-cylinder, and a supercharged V-8—and all come standard with four-wheel drive. The Defender can be had in two-door 90 and four-door 110 body styles, and advanced-duty off-roading equipment is available on all models, including an adjustable air suspension and locking differentials. There aren't many SUVs that are as capable as the Defender, and they mostly come from Land Rover's lineup. Some may consider the Jeep Wrangler a cheaper alternative, but the Defender has it beat when it comes to on-road refinement and available luxury appointments.
Land Rover is introducing a V-8 engine into the Defender lineup for 2022: the 518-hp Supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 that's found in the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models. The V-8 will be available on both the two-door 90 and four-door 110 models; a high-end Carpathian Edition model will also sport the V-8 engine. The package enhances the Defender with Carpathian Gray exterior paint with a black-painted roof and tailgate, black-painted tow hooks, Xenon Blue brake calipers, and special Carpathian Edition badging. A new XS trim is available on 110 models and bundles a host of luxury and convenience features together including heated-and-cooled front seats, leather-and-cloth upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, an adjustable air suspension, and adaptive cruise control. Land Rover is also introducing a new, optional 11.4-inch infotainment display this year and will offer even more accessory exterior packages for customization. An even larger, three-row Defender 130 model is on the horizon, but we aren't sure when that SUV may debut. The Trophy Edition model also joins the lineup this year, but only 220 examples will be available and they all come with a complimentary entry to a Land Rover off-road competition in North Carolina that will take place in fall 2021.
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2022 MAZDA MX 30
Overview
Mazda's first all-electric vehicle is the MX-30 SUV, which sports a stylish exterior and simplistic cabin, but fails to deliver adequate driving range. The sharp exterior design provides a coupe-like roofline and rear-hinged back doors similar to those found on the BMW i3 electric car. The EV Mazda SUV comes with a 30.0-kWh battery pack that's good for up to 100 miles of driving range; a 143-hp electric motor drives the front wheels and acceleration isn't nearly as perky as rival EVs such as the Chevrolet Bolt, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, or the Tesla Model 3, all of which offer more than twice the driving range of the Mazda. At first, the MX-30 will be offered for sale only in California before expanding to other states.
What's New for 2022?
Not only is the MX-30 an all-new model for Mazda, it marks the first time the Japanese automaker has experimented with an all-electric powertrain. It's similarly sized to the current CX-30 crossover, but borrows the MX nomenclature of the MX-5 Miata, which is a clue to that the MX-30 offers poised handling and a fun-t0-drive nature.
The MX-30 is offered in base and Premium Plus trims, but its prices are higher than mainstream rivals such as the Bolt and the Nissan Leaf. The Premium Plus model adds a lot of equipment, including active blind-spot assist, front cross-traffic alert, a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, a heated steering wheel, a 360-degree exterior camera system, and more.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The all-electric MX-30 comes with one 143-hp electric motor that drives the front wheels; all-wheel drive isn't available. However, we've also learned that there will be a plug-in-hybrid version that'll launch later and will pair an electric motor with a rotary gasoline engine, so perhaps all-wheel drive is still on the table. As its low horsepower rating suggests, the MX-30's acceleration isn't up to par with more powerful rivals and at our test track, it needed 8.7 seconds to reach 60 mph. The chassis is playful and steering is sharp, which is what we expect from a modern Mazda. That eager handling is what earns this SUV the MX in its name, a prefix which is shared only with the brand's MX-5 Miata sports car.
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2022 Range Rover, the Definition of Luxury Travel
Overview
Although it has blue-collar roots dating back more than a half-century the 2022 Range Rover's high-end interior and first-class curb appeal are designed to attract wealthy, white-collar buyers. While its transformation has been decades in the making, this leather-lined limo has reached a point where it's nearly six-figure starting price seems an appropriate ask. The cabin features upscale finishes such as leather, wood, and thickly-piled carpeting. And there’s plenty of tech too. Buyers can choose either a turbocharged inline-six or a thundering 523-hp twin-turbo V-8 engine, but all models come standard with off-road-capable features, such as an all-wheel-drive system, a rear-wheel steering system, and an air suspension that can be raised for extra ground clearance. Few Range Rover owners would dare to venture too far from paved roads, but knowing you could if you wanted to is, in fact, a luxury. In an odd twist, this new generation of Range Rover, launched for the 2022 model year will sell alongside a 2022 model of the previous generation until inventory runs out.
What's New for 2022?
The all-new 2022 Range Rover—not to be confused with the outgoing model, which is also a 2022—is redesigned from the ground up with updated styling, new tech features, and luxury touches. A more luxurious and highly-customizable SV trim will join the lineup for the 2023 model year. The outgoing-generation Range Rover, which is also a 2022 model and on sale for the time being, receives few changes for 2022. The diesel V-6 and plug-in-hybrid P400e models have been discontinued from the new Range Rover lineup, leaving the turbocharged inline-six and the supercharged V-8 as the only powertrain options. Buyers can now also add a more robust cabin air-ionization system as well.
Land Rover hasn't yet released a detailed list of the new Range Rover's standard and optional features, but we'd recommend opting for the mid-range Autobiography model, which will undoubtedly add several sought-after items that luxury buyers will appreciate. For example, the Autobiography comes standard with a 1600-watt Meridian stereo system featuring headrest-mounted speakers and active noise cancellation. The Range Rover will be offered in both a short- and long-wheelbase body style, and we suggest going for the latter since it creates room for a third row of seats and a more generous cargo area. When we find out more about how each of the Range Rover's trim levels will be equipped, we'll update this story with more details.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
At launch, the new Range Rover will be available with either a 395-hp turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt hybrid system or a new 523-hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine. The entry-level hybrid powertrain is available only on the base SE trim, but the V-8 is optional on the SE and standard on the Autobiography and First Edition models. Land Rover says a 434-hp plug-in hybrid option will join the lineup for 2023 and will offer up to 62 miles of electric-only driving; an all-electric model will be available starting in 2024 and a high-performance SV model is said to be in the cards, possibly with a more powerful version of the twin-turbo V-8. When we have a chance to test drive the new Range Rover, we'll update this story with driving impressions. Meanwhile, the outgoing Range Rover, which buyers may still find lurking on a few dealers’ lots, might be a relative bargain.
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The Making of NIO EP9 V2
Founded in 2014 in Shanghai, China, Nio has quickly grown to become a major industry player, establishing itself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of electric vehicles and self-driving technology. Boasting over 2,000 employees spread out over 13 locations globally, Nio is known for creations like Eve, a forward-thinking autonomous concept, and the ES8, a seven-passenger high-performance all-electric SUV, as well as its involvement in the Formula E championship with powertrain support for the Nio 003 race car. However, the start-up is best known for this – the EP9, a high-performance all-electric speed machine aimed squarely at all things quick and internal combustion-propelled. Inspired by the FIA’s Le Mans Prototype regulations, the Nio EP9 is street legal, but has made a name for itself setting some very impressive records on the track, including a sprint around the Nurburgring’s north loop in just 6 minutes, 45 seconds, a run around the Circuit Paul Ricard in 1 minute 52.78 seconds, and a lap of the Circuit of the Americas in 2 minutes 1.11 seconds. Granted, these records were done on track-only slick tires, but it’s impressive stuff all the same.
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New Mazda CX 30 2022 Interior and Exterior Compact Family SUV
The 2022 Mazda CX-30 is a subcompact crossover SUV. It blurs the line between SUV and hatchback, but whatever you want to call it, it’s a terrific little car. It’s stylish inside and out, it is pretty roomy for its size, and, like every Mazda crossover, it’s one of the most athletic entries in its class. Engine options include a standard naturally aspirated inline-4 and an available turbocharged inline-4 that produces up to 250 horsepower. We expect both of these engines to carry over for the 2022 model.
The Mazda CX-30 was introduced for 2020 and picked up an available turbocharged engine in 2021. We don’t anticipate any major changes for the 2022 model year, perhaps aside from some reshuffling of features between trims and maybe more paint color and wheel options. It’s already pretty up-to-date on tech features with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with standard safety tech like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
2022 MAZDA CX-30 Pricing
We expect pricing for the 2022 Mazda CX-30 to start in the low-$20,000 range and top out around the $30,000 mark. You can expect to pay extra for the available turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and premium features like leather seats, Bose audio, a head-up display, navigation, and more. Even when fully loaded, the CX-30 is a strong value compared to similarly appointed small crossovers from more expensive luxury brands.
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NIO ES6
The ES6 is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack, a package that is also swappable just like the NIO ES8.
The ES6 is a 5-seater mid-size production SUV, with a wheelbase of 2,900 mm and a body length of 4,850 mm. The body and chassis are completely aluminum, and the drivetrain is all-wheel drive standard, and featured active air suspension. The design includes the X-bar and NIO's signature "Spark Beat" taillights. The range of the car with one battery charge starts from 410 with a top of the range battery pack capacity of up to 100 kWh and an NEDC range of up to 620 km (385 miles). The acceleration time from 0-100 km/h is 4.7 seconds.
The price of the ES6 ranges from 358,000 yuan to 548,000 yuan.
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NIO EP9
Founded in 2014 in Shanghai, China, Nio has quickly grown to become a major industry player, establishing itself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of electric vehicles and self-driving technology. Boasting over 2,000 employees spread out over 13 locations globally, Nio is known for creations like Eve, a forward-thinking autonomous concept, and the ES8, a seven-passenger high-performance all-electric SUV, as well as its involvement in the Formula E championship with powertrain support for the Nio 003 race car. However, the start-up is best known for this – the EP9, a high-performance all-electric speed machine aimed squarely at all things quick and internal combustion-propelled. Inspired by the FIA’s Le Mans Prototype regulations, the Nio EP9 is street legal, but has made a name for itself setting some very impressive records on the track, including a sprint around the Nurburgring’s north loop in just 6 minutes, 45 seconds, a run around the Circuit Paul Ricard in 1 minute 52.78 seconds, and a lap of the Circuit of the Americas in 2 minutes 1.11 seconds. Granted, these records were done on track-only slick tires, but it’s impressive stuff all the same.
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2022 Cadillac Escalade
Overview
As the flagship of the Cadillac brand—and therefore the entirety of the General Motors portfolio—the 2022 Escalade SUV offers every high-tech item and the utmost in luxury features. Luckily, due to the Escalade's massive size, Cadillac could fit it with a lot of those features. Fine leather, genuine wood, and shiny metal trims line the cabin. A huge, curved digital display dominates the dashboard, serving up both infotainment- and the driver-gauge displays in a unique way. The Escalade's exterior draws inspiration from the gorgeous Escala concept car scaled up to size XXL and adapted to the Escalade's boxy silhouette. Most Escalades will roll with the standard 6.2-liter V-8 but Cadillac also offers a more fuel-efficient 3.0-liter turbo-diesel inline-six as an option. No matter the engine, the Escalade's ride and handling are luxury-car appropriate—but, of course, don't expect the playfulness you'll find in the brand's sedans.
What's New for 2022?
Lane-keeping assist and lane-departure warning are now both standard on the base Luxury trim while the Premium Luxury, Sport, and Platinum models now come standard with Cadillac's Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving feature as well as front and rear automated emergency braking. The new Touring package adds air suspension, soft-close doors, and illuminated door sill protector plates to Premium Luxury and Sport models.
To truly deck out the Escalade in its best features, go for the Premium Luxury Platinum trim. It adds semi-aniline leather, 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, soft-close doors, and an AKG audio system with 36 speakers. It also comes standard with a self-parking feature, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Cadillac's biggest SUV is powered by either a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that makes 420 horsepower and can deactivate half of its cylinders when cruising to save fuel or a turbo-diesel 3.0-liter inline-six. A 10-speed automatic transmission will be standard with both engines, and buyers will be able to choose from rear- or all-wheel-drive setups based on their individual needs. As with its siblings, the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban and the GMC Yukon, the 2021 Escalade now rides on an all-new platform with an independent rear suspension to help provide a smoother ride. Higher-end models also offer an air suspension with adaptive dampers that use computer-controlled shock absorbers. At our test track, the long-wheelbase Escalade ESV with the V-8 engine sprinted to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. The diesel engine sounds less refined than the V-8, but for some buyers that compromise is worth the improved fuel economy and low-end torque.
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2021 Cadillac Escalade
Overview
Once upon a time, back in the late 1990s, General Motors slapped a Cadillac grille on a GMC Yukon—and the rest is history. The 2021 Cadillac Escalade will mark the model's fifth generation and this new one is head and shoulders above the original in terms of luxury, style, and technology. Borrowing elements from the Escala concept car from 2016, the new Escalade offers visual panache worthy of its price tag. Two engines are offered—a familiar 6.2-liter V-8 and a new turbo-diesel inline-six—both hooked up to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Inside, a series of clever curved OLED displays takes the Escalade's dashboard to the digital realm, serving as the gauge cluster and infotainment display in one slick assembly.
What's New for 2021?
The 2021 Escalade has undergone a thorough redesign, complete with a new independent rear suspension, savvier interior technology, prettier styling, and a new optional diesel-powered engine.
To truly deck out the Escalade in its best features, go for the Premium Luxury Platinum trim. It adds semi-aniline leather, 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, soft-close doors, and an AKG audio system with 36 speakers. It also comes standard with a self-parking feature, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Cadillac's biggest SUV is powered by either a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that makes 420 horsepower and can deactivate half of its cylinders when cruising to save fuel or a turbo-diesel 3.0-liter inline-six. A 10-speed automatic transmission will be standard with both engines, and buyers will be able to choose from rear- or all-wheel-drive setups based on their individual needs. As with its siblings, the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban and the GMC Yukon, the 2021 Escalade now rides on an all-new platform with an independent rear suspension to help provide a smoother ride. Higher-end models also offer an air suspension with adaptive dampers that use computer-controlled shock absorbers. At our test track, the long-wheelbase Escalade ESV with the V-8 engine sprinted to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. The diesel engine sounds less refined than the V-8, but for some buyers that compromise is worth the improved fuel economy and low-end torque.
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The New Toyota Tundra's Biggest Challenge
Domestic automakers have a monopoly on the full-size pickup truck segment, but the 2022 Toyota Tundra appeals to a slightly different audience, particularly those loyal to Toyota. Most half-ton pickups have a sturdy, albeit antiquated, leaf-spring rear suspension. The Tundra features coil springs out back that make it ride and drive much better than most. Plus, it can still tow up to 12,000 pounds and comes standard with a suite of driver assists. Unlike its domestic rivals, the Tundra isn't available with a V-8. Gasp! The lone engine option is a twin-turbo V-6, but it's available with a hybrid system that's good for 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. With a cabin that's considerably prettier than its predecessor and an infotainment system that offers a 14.0-inch touchscreen, there are numerous reasons the 2022 Tundra has the goods to take on the Americans.
Toyota gives the Tundra a much-needed, total redesign after the previous generation went largely unchanged since its debut in 2007. Although it was refreshed for the 2014 model year, it struggled to steal sales from domestic half-ton rivals such as the Ford F-150, the Ram 1500, the Chevy Silverado 1500, and the GMC Sierra 1500. The new Tundra still isn't expected to outsell any of those alternatives, but its myriad improvements should make it much more competitive and desirable when it reaches dealerships this winter.
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2022 Lexus LX 🆚️ 2022 Range Rover
Range Rover
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The new Range Rover is making its motor show debut in Los Angeles following the culmination of a five-year, seven million-hour testing program and ahead of its market launch in spring of next year. The reinvented Porsche Cayenne rival will spearhead a top-to-bottom overhaul of Land Rover’s line-up, in which each model will be offered with a fully electric option by the end of the decade. The pure-electric version of the new Range Rover, which has been confirmed for launch in 2024, will be the brand’s first all-electric model.
Revealed here in both standard and long-wheelbase forms, with the latter giving the option of seven seats for the first time, the reinvented luxury SUV is available to order now – from £94,400 in short-wheelbase form and £120,000 for the long-wheelbase – ahead of customer deliveries getting under way next spring. A range of petrol and diesel powertrains are also available from launch, to be followed in around three months’ time by a choice of petrol plug-in hybrids.
Lexus LX
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Lexus's flagship LX SUV has been redesigned for 2022, sporting an upgraded interior and riding on a modernized platform and powered by a twin-turbocharged engine. Based on the new Toyota Land Cruiser—which, sadly, will not be sold in the U.S.—the LX600 takes off-road capability seriously but doesn't skimp on the luxury. The previous generation came with a burly V-8 engine, but the new version will make do with a 409-hp twin-turbo V-6. Four-wheel drive remains standard and the LX can be equipped with a number of off-road goodies, including a height-adjustable suspension system. Lexus richened the new LX600’s interior to compete with plusher contemporaries—large luxury SUVs such as the BMW X7, the Land Rover Range Rover, and the Mercedes-Benz GLS-class.
Following the last generation's 13-year run, the 2022 LX600 receives a ground-up redesign. Deliveries should begin in early 2022.
Until Lexus releases more information about the LX's pricing or its standard and optional features, we can't make a recommendation on which one to buy. If you're looking for luxury that rivals the Range Rover or top-spec models from BMW and Mercedes, you'll want to go with the Ultra Luxury trim. For something more sporty, know that the F Sport model wears a unique look and comes with a sport suspension.
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NIO ET7 Ready for Tomorrow
Remember Nio? It might not sell any cars in Europe (yet, anyway), but it’s one of the better-known Chinese car manufacturers over here thanks to the EP9 hypercar, which once held the Nurburgring record for EVs, and its moderately successful Formula E team. The company’s posh electric SUVs sell well in China and are actually pretty good – we were pleasantly surprised by the ES6. Click on these blue words to read our review.
This is Nio’s first saloon – a direct Tesla Model S rival that’s due to go on sale early next year for the equivalent of around £51,000. It’s called the ET7 and the big news is range – the top-of-the-line model has a ginormous 150kWh battery pack and, says the company, a range of over 621 miles (or a nice, round 1,000km). Granted that’s using China’s NEDC testing protocol – Europe’s WLTP test would likely give a lower, more realistic figure.
But still, we can’t think of an electric car that comes with a bigger battery (Tesla only goes up to 100kWh). The ET7 is also available in 70kWh and 100kWh versions with 310 and 435 miles of NEDC range respectively. And of course it’s compatible with the company’s network of ‘Power Swap’ stations, which allow Nio owners to switch their depleted battery pack with a fully-charged one in a matter of minutes.
In mid-2019 we used these stations to drive 800 miles between Beijing and Shanghai in a 78kWh ES6 without once having to recharge. Click here to read the story. Back then there were 123 Power Swap stations throughout China. By the end of this year, Nio says that will have risen to more than 500.
See that bulge above the windscreen? It’s home to some of the 33 “high performance sensing units” built-in to the ET7 that together generate eight gigabytes of data per second. Nio says the ET7’s “full stack autonomous driving technology” gives a “safe and effortless point-to-point autonomous driving experience that gradually covers urban, expressway, parking, and battery swapping scenarios”. Some 19 of the ET7’s driver assistance systems come as standard, but you have to pay a £78 monthly subscription to access the cleverest stuff.
The ET7 is brisk enough, with twin e-motors producing a combined 644bhp and 627lb ft of torque. 0-62mph takes 3.9 seconds. And it ought to be comfortable too, with standard air suspension that scans the road ahead to look for bumps. The interior is typically minimalist, with a 12.8-inch AMOLED display running the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon platform and 5G. The company’s voice-activated assistant, Nomi, is back too, and a 1,000 watt 23-speaker hi-fi is standard on all models.
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NIO ET5 Mid size Smart Electric Sedan
Chinese EV manufacturer Nio's new ET5 is a rakish compact saloon aimed squarely at the Tesla Model 3.
Unveiled at the firm's annual Nio Day showcase, the ET5 is the brand's fifth production model, joining the EC5, ES6 and ES8 SUVs and the upcoming ET7 luxury saloon.
It is priced from the equivalent of £38,935 in China (including battery), slightly less than the dual-motor Tesla Model 3 Performance. Deliveries in China are set to get underway in September 2022, with European examples arriving in spring 2023.
Unlike the Tesla, the ET5 – based on the same Technology Platform 2.0 as the ET7 – is available exclusively with a twin-motor powertrain, which comprises a 201bhp asynchronous motor on the front axle and a 282bhp motor at the rear for total combined outputs of 483bhp and 516lb ft. The 0-62mph sprint is dispatched in 4.3 seconds, but Nio has yet to give a top speed figure.
Three battery sizes are available: a 75kWh Standard Range unit with a claimed range of more than 342 miles, the 100kWh Long Range unit which bumps the range past 435 miles and the range-topping, 150kWh Ultralong Range battery which claims a range of more than 620 miles – a figure which could make the ET5 one of the longest-range mainstream EVs on sale globally.
However, these figures are homologated according to China's CLTC test cycle, and will likely not be emulated in WLTP testing.
The relationship with the ET7 is clear in the 4700mm-long ET5's rakish, liftback-style silhouette. Nio claims the rear haunches are inspired by its EP9 supercar, while a wider track "and sharp chiselled forms" hint at the car's "sporting intent".
Additionally, features such as the subtle ducktail spoiler, flush doorhandles, frameless windows and prominent front air intakes aim to boost aerodynamic efficiency – which will be key to the ET5 achieving its impressive claimed range figures.
The minimalist cabin is similarly modelled on the ET7, sharing that car's largely featureless dashboard, vertically oriented infotainment touchscreen, digital gauge cluster and panoramic roof. Highlights include a sustainable 'Clean+' upholstery material which is claimed to improve the interior's acoustics, 'invisible' air vents, a 256-colour ambient lighting system and a standard-fit Dolby Atmos sound system.
Nio also claims the ET5's will feature "an industry first" when it comes to in-car entertainment. The manufacturer has worked with tech company NREAL to develop bespoke augmented reality glasses which can project a virtual 201in screen six metres in front of the wearer.
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2022 Toyota Sequoia
Is the Toyota Sequoia a Good SUV?
The Toyota Sequoia is not a very good large SUV. It's gone almost 15 years without a full redesign, and it has an outdated cabin that lacks the modern, high-tech features of most competitors. Cargo space – especially behind the third row – is unimpressive for the class, and the ride can be stiff. On top of that, gas mileage is bad.
Still, the Sequoia has some redeeming factors, like strong acceleration, roomy seating, and a long list of standard driver assistance technology.
Should I Buy the Toyota Sequoia?
There's little reason to buy the Sequoia when many rivals match its strengths and provide several advantages. Competitors such as the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition feel fresher inside, get better fuel economy, and can tow more.
2021 vs. 2022 Toyota Sequoia: What's the Difference?
There are no major differences between the 2021 and 2022 Toyota Sequoia.
Here are the key changes for the Toyota Sequoia over the last few years:
2022: no major changes
2021: Nightshade Edition introduced
2020: a 7-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa added to standard features list; TRD Pro model debuted
2019: no major changes
2018: refreshed front-end styling; several Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance features became standard; TRD Sport model introduced
If you're considering an older model, be sure to read our 2019 Sequoia, 2020 Sequoia, and 2021 Sequoia reviews to help make your decision. Also, check out our Best New Car Deals and Best New Car Lease Deals pages to learn about savings and discounts you can find on new vehicles.
How Much Does the Toyota Sequoia Cost?
The 2022 Toyota Sequoia starts at $50,500, which is in line with the base prices of many other large SUVs. Five higher trim levels increase in cost by a few thousand dollars, culminating in the range-topping Platinum model at $66,550. Several class rivals have similar price ranges.
Check out our U.S. News Best Price Program for great savings at your local Toyota dealer. You can also find excellent manufacturer incentives on our Toyota deals page.
Want to trade-in or sell your current car? Get an instant cash offer that can be used toward the purchase of your next car.
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Jeep Commander 2022 - 7 Seater Family SUV 2
The Previous Commander was an SUV of mid-size size with a boxy design and standard rear-wheel drive. From 2005 to 2010, this model was made available in the United States. A model that debuted in 2018 along with a seven-seat Grand Commander variant in China will be well-remembered by many. The crossover shown here is based on the Compass but has a third row after the wheelbase was lengthened. The Commander has a longer wheelbase, and offers more space than the Compass.
Commander, on the other hand will be unique. Some exterior parts of Commander will still be identifiable, but not as revolutionary. The new Commander rides on FCA’s Small Wide platform, which also supports the Renegade. It appears to be boxier than the Compass version. This model was designed primarily for Latin America. We believe that the Commander will be different from its Chinese sibling.
The 2022 Jeep Commander is likely to use technologies similar to the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. This could include a 10.1 inch Uconnect 5 infotainment and a 10-inch digital cluster display. It will also support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This is speculation only. However, it should offer luxury and convenience amenities like heated and ventilated seats and power liftgates. The third row can also have automated folding seats. Jeep will also offer numerous driver-assistance tools.
This includes systems like blind-spot warning and traffic sign recognition. The new Jeep Commander will be a subject of constant development. It may be available in the United States if it is popular in South America. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L's smaller variant would be more affordable, but it would not be suitable for children.
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2022 Toyota Tundra
Domestic automakers have a monopoly on the full-size pickup truck segment, but the 2022 Toyota Tundra appeals to a slightly different audience, particularly those loyal to Toyota. Most half-ton pickups have a sturdy, albeit antiquated, leaf-spring rear suspension. The Tundra features coil springs out back that make it ride and drive much better than most. Plus, it can still tow up to 12,000 pounds and comes standard with a suite of driver assists. Unlike its domestic rivals, the Tundra isn't available with a V-8. Gasp! The lone engine option is a twin-turbo V-6, but it's available with a hybrid system that's good for 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. With a cabin that's considerably prettier than its predecessor and an infotainment system that offers a 14.0-inch touchscreen, there are numerous reasons the 2022 Tundra has the goods to take on the Americans.
Toyota gives the Tundra a much-needed, total redesign after the previous generation went largely unchanged since its debut in 2007. Although it was refreshed for the 2014 model year, it struggled to steal sales from domestic half-ton rivals such as the Ford F-150, the Ram 1500, the Chevy Silverado 1500, and the GMC Sierra 1500. The new Tundra still isn't expected to outsell any of those alternatives, but its myriad improvements should make it much more competitive and desirable when it reaches dealerships this winter.
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2022 Toyota Highlander
Practical, comfortable, and stylish, the 2022 Toyota Highlander is a family SUV with its eye on the mid-size prize. This three-row ute has plenty to offer and a variety of configurations to appeal to the widest possible audience. Although the base powertrain consists of a V-6 engine, the Highlander is one of only a few three-row SUVs offered with an optional hybrid setup; both powertrains can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive. Toyota has gone the value-packed route with the Highlander, too, incorporating desirable infotainment and driver-assistance features as standard across the entire lineup. Opt for one of the Highlander's ritzier trims and enjoy a more luxurious environment that just about matches the offerings of a Lexus-branded SUV. What's missing is driver engagement. The Highlander's ride is smooth and its acceleration is decent, but overall it lacks the driving verve of rivals such as the Kia Telluride, the Hyundai Palisade, and the Mazda CX-9.
A new Hybrid Bronze Edition model joins the lineup and wears Cement or Wind Chill Pearl exterior paint with a set of cool 18-inch bronze-colored wheels. The cabin also receives some unique design elements in the form of geometric-patterned upholstery with bronze-colored detailing and illuminated bronze-colored doorsill protectors. Elsewhere, XLE and higher trims now come with a height-adjustable power-seat feature for the front passenger. The Highlander otherwise carries over to 2022 with no other changes.
In our view, the midrange XLE is the pick of the litter. It has heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and a power sunroof, among other niceties. We'd also spring for the Premium Audio with Dynamic Navigation package, which brings in-dash navigation and an upgraded stereo system. All-wheel drive will add $1600 to the bottom line. And opting for the hybrid powertrain over the standard V-6 will cost an extra $1400.
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2022 BMW M9 - Next Generation M Car!
After several misguided rumors, BMW announced today on April 1 that a supercar is coming. Announced earlier by BMW CEO Franciscus van Meel, the car will be called BMW M9 and it will feature a mix of hybrid, carbon fiber reinforced plastic and electric technology, all paired up with a 3.2 liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline-six engine.
The concept car will be revealed at the Frankfurt Auto Show later thisyear, but our sources tell us the car will be reminiscent of the BMW i8, with a futuristic, aggressive and breathtaking exterior lines. But according to BMW, the new vehicle will take design cues from most significant BMW models throughout the history as well.
While there has been much speculation about naming, the final naming convention was chosen: BMW M9.The name is a logical extension of BMW’s M lineup. The sources tell us that the car will feature four distinct paint finishes: electric blue, desert yellow, lava red and space gray.
Specifications for the upcoming vehicle are 2.9 seconds for the 0-60 (0-100km/h) acceleration time and 217 mph (350km/h) top speed. While BMW’s models are electronically limited to only 155mph (250km/h), it seems that the new supercar will not abide to those rules. The car will feature a 9 gear automatic transmission, energy recovery system braking and a fully electric range of 50 miles or 80 kilometers.
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2022 Toyota Camry
The 2022 Toyota Camry shares a nameplate with the generations that came before, but its extroverted styling and performance model make it almost unrecognizable. That's because the current Camry is arguably the most compelling it has ever been. The standard, albeit humdrum, four-cylinder engine is economical and fine for daily driver duty. The hybrid version maximizes fuel economy, even if its acceleration is uneventful. That leaves the lusty 301-hp V-6 to pick up the pace, especially on the sport-tuned Camry TRD, which is actually entertaining to drive. While rivals like the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata are more refined and satisfying overall, the Toyota has its own desirable qualities, such as a full suite of standard active safety features and goodwill generated by decades of proven reliability.
The only news for the 2022 Camry lineup relates to how its myriad models look. Unlike before, the Nightshade appearance package (which adds black exterior trim, black wheels, etc.) can now be had on the hybrid models. The Camry's paint options are also slightly different, with Edge White now available on non-TRD trim levels. However, the Galactic Aqua hue has been discontinued.
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