CarGurus

Hybrid Crossovers from Honda and Subaru | 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid vs 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid

The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid TrailSport and 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Premium are compared as strong contenders in the hybrid compact SUV market. The ... moreCR-V, in its sixth generation, boasts a refined and upscale design, borrowing cues from luxury brands, and offers a more engaging driving experience with superior chassis tuning and a sportier feel. Its hybrid system provides a slight edge in power and smoother delivery, though real-world fuel economy is comparable to the Forester, hovering around 30 MPG combined, with the TrailSport's all-terrain tires impacting efficiency. The CR-V also offers significantly more cargo space. However, the Forester, also in its sixth generation, wins on value and honesty. Despite less sophisticated styling and handling, its hybrid system delivers meaningful performance gains over previous models, and it comes standard with all-wheel drive and more off-road capability (8.7 inches of ground clearance vs. 8.2 for the CR-V TrailSport). The Forester's interior is praised for its visibility and bright, spacious cabin, though its infotainment system is considered dated. The reviewer highlights the Forester's honest, genuine nature and better feature set for the price as its key advantages, making it the preferred choice for its overall package, even over the more stylish and dynamically superior CR-V. less

Cars Discontinued for 2026 | The Driveway Podcast Episode 34

This episode of The Driveway Podcast delves into the surprising and sometimes sad discontinuations of various vehicles for the 2026 model year. The ho... morests express a collective disappointment over the loss of sedans, highlighting the Acura TLX Type S as a notable example that offered near-luxury performance and striking looks, despite its tight interior and dated tech. The Lexus RC is also mourned as a stylish, comfortable coupe that deserved a longer life, particularly the V8-powered variants. The Kia Soul's departure is seen as a loss of character and practicality, a victim of not fitting neatly into market categories. The podcast touches on several EVs, including the Mercedes EQB, Infiniti QX50, and Nissan Ariya, with mixed feelings about their execution and market reception. While some discontinuations are understandable due to poor sales or market shifts, the overall sentiment is a lament for the shrinking diversity of vehicle types available to consumers. less

Roadtripping the UK, LA Auto Show News, and The Cars We're Thankful For | The Driveway Podcast #33

The Driveway Podcast episode #33 features an in-depth discussion of a UK road trip taken by host Natalie in a Ford Tornado Custom diesel van. Despite ... moreinitial concerns about its size on narrow UK roads and driving on the opposite side, the van proved to be an excellent, comfortable, and surprisingly fuel-efficient choice for a large group, achieving 33 MPG with seven passengers and heavy luggage. Natalie highlights the van's versatile seating, including the ability to rotate middle-row seats, making it ideal for family travel. The episode also touches on LA Auto Show news, including Audi's planned Defender-rivaling body-on-frame SUV based on the Scout platform, Hyundai's Crater off-road concept, and Nissan's rebadged Rogue PHEV. The hosts conclude by sharing what they are thankful for in the automotive industry, with Nissan's commitment to affordability and the return of AMG wagons being notable mentions. less

An EV Crossover Tournament! The Driveway Podcast Episode 31

This episode of The Driveway Podcast features a March Madness-style tournament to determine the best EV crossover. The hosts, Elliot, Matt, Dave, and ... moreNatalie, debate various models including the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Volkswagen ID.4, Hyundai Kona Electric, Nissan Ariya, Kia Niro EV, and others. Key matchups highlight price differences, styling preferences, and technological features. The Chevrolet Equinox EV and Honda Prologue emerge as strong contenders, with the Equinox EV praised for its affordability and features like Super Cruise, while the Prologue is noted for its size and handsome design, despite a high entry price. The Ioniq 5 is consistently favored for its overall execution and distinctive styling, even as it becomes ubiquitous. The Blazer EV also garners praise for its modern tech and size. Ultimately, the tournament progresses through several rounds, narrowing down the field based on the hosts' subjective opinions and practical considerations. less

One Clear Winner: 2025 Volvo EX30 vs 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5

The 2025 Volvo EX30 and 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 are compared, with the IONIQ 5 emerging as the clear winner. While the EX30 boasts impressive acceleratio... moren and a stylish exterior, its interior quality is heavily criticized for cheap materials and a frustrating, screen-centric control layout that compromises safety and usability. The reviewer highlights the EX30's lack of basic physical controls and the constant need to look away from the road, which is seen as contrary to Volvo's safety ethos. In contrast, the IONIQ 5 is praised for its superior build quality, comfortable and quiet interior, intuitive controls with physical shortcuts, better range, and faster charging capabilities. Despite being pricier and heavier, the IONIQ 5 is deemed a more substantial, higher-quality, and ultimately more livable vehicle, offering a better overall execution as both an EV and a car. less

Best Cars for a Road Trip

This episode of The Driveway Podcast delves into the quintessential road trip experience, with the hosts sharing personal anecdotes and highlighting t... moreheir top vehicle picks for long-distance travel. The discussion spans a wide range of vehicles, from practical minivans like the Chrysler Pacifica and Toyota Sienna, to powerful trucks such as the Ford F-150 Hybrid and the all-electric GMC Sierra EV Denali. Notable mentions also include the comfortable Chevrolet Suburban with its turbo-diesel engine and Super Cruise, the refined Toyota Land Cruiser, and surprisingly, the efficient Honda Civic Hybrid and Hyundai Ioniq 6 for those prioritizing fuel economy. While the Audi RS6 Avant is lauded for its supercar performance in a wagon body, it comes with a hefty price tag. The hosts emphasize comfort, space, efficiency, and reliability as key factors for road trip vehicles, with the GMC Sierra EV Denali impressing with its range and performance even in cold weather. less

The Fastest Volvo Ever Made | 2025 Volvo EX30 Review

The 2025 Volvo EX30 marks Volvo's ambitious entry into the subcompact electric crossover segment, but ultimately falls short of expectations. Whi... morele it boasts impressive acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds thanks to its dual-motor AWD system, and offers a serene, quiet ride, its shortcomings are significant. The real-world range is disappointing, with the tested model showing only 205-210 miles instead of the EPA's 253 miles. Interior usability is hampered by a poorly designed, single central touchscreen that complicates basic functions like climate control and volume, raising safety concerns due to the need to divert attention from the road. Rear seat space and cargo capacity are also notably cramped, making it impractical for families or those needing significant storage. Despite its attractive styling and comfortable front seats, the EX30's limited range, cramped interior, and problematic infotainment system lead to a non-recommendation, with competitors offering better overall packages. less

All-New Subarus and Best Cars for Camping | The Driveway Podcast Episode 26

The Driveway Podcast dives into the refreshed Subaru Forester Wilderness and the Crosstrek Hybrid, offering a nuanced perspective on their capabilitie... mores. The Forester Wilderness, now in its new generation for 2025/2026, impresses with its enhanced ground clearance and off-road prowess, tackling challenging terrain that competitors like the Honda CRV Trail Sport cannot match. However, its CVT transmission and higher RPMs at highway speeds lead to reduced fuel efficiency, a significant drawback compared to hybrid alternatives. The Crosstrek Hybrid is presented as a more compromised option, with a high price point and only a modest improvement in MPG over the standard gasoline model, despite offering Subaru's signature symmetrical all-wheel drive. The hosts also explore the best vehicles for camping, highlighting the Honda Ridgeline for its utility and comfort, the quirky yet practical Honda Element for its configurability, and various EVs with V2L capabilities. While acknowledging the niche appeal of the Cybertruck for camping, the discussion leans towards more conventional choices like the Toyota Sienna and Ford Transit for their space and versatility. less

Epic Proportions and Capability | 2026 GMC Sierra EV AT4 Review

The 2026 GMC Sierra EV AT4 is presented as a vehicle of "epic proportions and capability," targeting a niche market with its high price poin... moret (starting over $90,000 for the tested AT4 Max range) and impressive performance figures, including over 700 horsepower and a real-world range exceeding 360 miles on the highway, despite a GMC estimate of 478 miles. The reviewer highlights the AT4's fixed 2-inch lift and 10 inches of ground clearance, distinguishing it from the Denali's air suspension. While praising its comfortable, palatial interior and the unique midgate feature for cargo extension, the reviewer notes a lack of innovative interior design compared to competitors like Tesla or Rivian. The truck's immense weight (around 9,000 lbs) is a recurring theme, leading to both impressive acceleration and handling that masks its size, but also concerns about the trend of ever-heavier EVs. Charging costs are noted to be comparable to diesel. The reviewer finds the steering a bit aloof and misses physical climate controls, but appreciates the inclusion of a volume knob and the overall comfortable ride, despite the aggressive tire pressures. Ultimately, while acknowledging its compelling capabilities and utility, the reviewer suggests that its extreme nature and limitations as an EV may limit its appeal to a broad audience, with the Ford F-150 Lightning still considered a more practical overall package. less

News from the Munich Auto Show: BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, and More! | The Driveway Podcast Episode #24

This episode of The Driveway Podcast covers significant news from the IAA Mobility show in Munich, focusing on announcements relevant to the North Ame... morerican market. Key discussions include BMW's "Neue Klasse" platform and the upcoming iX3 and 3 Series, Ferrari's expensive and exclusive new Testarossa hybrid, the refreshed Lexus IS sedan, and Mercedes-Benz's electric GLC with its "sensual purity" design language. The hosts also delve into Mercedes' groundbreaking megawatt charging technology and Porsche's inductive wireless charging for the next-gen Cayenne. While the podcast touches on many vehicles, the primary focus remains on the technological advancements and design philosophies shaping the future of the automotive industry, particularly in electrification and charging infrastructure. less

A 700 HP Wagon!! | 2025 BMW M5 Touring Review

The 2025 BMW M5 Touring arrives as a potent, yet complex, station wagon, blending family practicality with extraordinary performance. Boasting over 70... more0 horsepower from its hybrid V8 powertrain, the M5 Touring delivers blistering speed and incredible grip, defying its substantial 5,500 lb weight. The reviewer praises its dynamic capabilities, noting that BMW has successfully tuned the chassis to feel identical to the M5 sedan, offering rear-wheel steering and selectable AWD/RWD modes for enthusiastic driving. However, the interior material quality is a significant point of criticism, with the reviewer finding it lacking for a vehicle in this price bracket, featuring too much hard plastic and a "low rent" feel in areas like the information bar. The infotainment system is also deemed overly complex and distracting. Despite these drawbacks, the M5 Touring excels in its core mission of delivering raw speed and dynamic prowess, making it a compelling, albeit complicated, option for those who refuse to compromise on performance. less

Best Cars for a New Family and the New Nissan Leaf | The Driveway Podcast Episode 22

The Driveway Podcast returns with Natalie, welcoming her back from maternity leave, and dives into family-focused car discussions. The episode feature... mores a segment on the upcoming 2026 Nissan Leaf, highlighting its significant evolution with a more attractive design, larger battery options (up to 75 kWh for an estimated 303 miles of range), and a starting price under $30,000, with the top Platinum Plus trim around $41,000. Notably, it adopts the NACS port. The discussion then shifts to the practicalities of family car ownership, covering experiences with car seats, the challenges of rear-facing seats in smaller vehicles, and the surprising utility of minivans. Recommendations range from the practical Nissan Rogue and Hyundai Santa Fe to the enthusiast-favored Toyota Sienna minivan, with honorable mentions for full-size pickup trucks and even a Volvo S60 for the less conventional parent. The conversation emphasizes that while minivans offer unparalleled ease of use for families, practical considerations like door opening size, rear legroom, and cargo space are crucial for parents. less

Biggest News from the Summer! Prelude, RSX, Uncharted, and More! | The Driveway Podcast Episode #21

The Driveway Podcast's Episode #21 dives into the significant automotive announcements of Summer 2025, with a particular focus on the highly anti... morecipated return of the Honda Prelude. The hosts express excitement for the Prelude's comeback after a 25-year hiatus, noting its new parallel hybrid powertrain delivering 200 horsepower and expected strong fuel economy. While appreciating Honda's effort to introduce a unique, sporty two-door grand tourer, they acknowledge the styling is divisive, with some seeing modern Toyota cues in the front and Porsche influences in the rear, while others find the overall profile less cohesive. The practicality of the rear seats is questioned, deemed suitable only for occasional use. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment is positive, crediting Honda for taking a risk in a market dominated by SUVs and anticipating a potentially affordable price point in the low $30,000s, with a late 2025 sales launch. less

The Best Boxy Cars and SUVs

This episode of The Driveway Podcast dives into the resurgence of boxy car designs, exploring why this aesthetic is making a comeback and highlighting... more favorite models. The hosts discuss how factors like a nostalgic appreciation for 80s and 90s styling, a growing interest in outdoor adventure, and stable gas prices contribute to this trend. They praise the practicality of boxy vehicles, particularly their cargo space, using the Kia Soul as a prime example of maximizing interior volume within a compact exterior. The discussion then shifts to off-road-oriented boxy SUVs, with the Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, and Lexus GX being key points of comparison. While acknowledging the Bronco's superior on-road manners and capability, the hosts express a strong affinity for the Wrangler's iconic status and personality, despite its highway quirks. The luxury segment is explored with the Land Rover Defender, Mercedes G-Wagen, and Lexus GX, with a preference leaning towards the GX for its blend of style and practicality, though the G-Wagen's undeniable presence is also noted. The Hyundai Santa Fe's new boxy design is also discussed, with mixed feelings on its exterior execution but appreciation for its interior ergonomics. less

Our Favorite Tiny Cars | The Driveway Podcast Episode 19

This episode of The Driveway Podcast delves into the hosts' favorite "tiny" cars, emphasizing that the list prioritizes size over affor... moredability. The discussion highlights a diverse range of small vehicles, from the European Renault Twizy and Japanese Kei cars to American icons like the Jeep Wrangler and performance-oriented GR Corolla. The Kia Soul and Honda Element are praised for their practicality and spaciousness within a compact footprint, with the Soul seen as a modern successor to the Element's unique appeal. The Hyundai Venue sparks a lively debate regarding its styling, with one host finding it charming and refreshing while others disagree. The Mazda Miata is lauded as a pure driving experience and a form of therapy, though its practicality in heavy traffic is questioned. The Mini Cooper is recognized for its premium feel and engaging driving dynamics, with the four-door variant offering increased versatility. The Nissan Kicks is highlighted as a surprisingly stylish and affordable option that has significantly improved. Finally, the GR Corolla is celebrated for its exhilarating performance, contrasting sharply with its base model. The episode concludes by acknowledging that the perception of "tiny" can be relative to location and lifestyle. less

Goodbye EV Tax Credit! The Driveway Podcast Episode 18

The Driveway Podcast episode #18 tackles the impending end of the federal EV tax credit, offering a pragmatic outlook for consumers and the industry. ... moreWhile acknowledging the immediate impact on purchasing decisions, the hosts emphasize that this is not an existential threat to EVs. They highlight the continued investment by major automakers like GM and Ford, with Ford's upcoming 'Model T moment' for a low-cost EV platform generating particular excitement. The discussion delves into specific vehicles, with the Cadillac Escalade IQ praised for its luxury execution and impressive range, though its high price point is noted. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is lauded for its efficiency, US assembly, and compelling package, making it a top pick for one host. The F-150 Lightning is also recommended for its utility, despite its highway efficiency limitations. The episode concludes with a reassuring message for consumers: while acting before the September 30th deadline is advisable for those close to a purchase, the EV market will continue to offer compelling options and automakers will focus on cost reduction. less

Electrified Muscle | 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack Review

The 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack is presented as a compelling, albeit expensive, fusion of muscle car ethos and electric performance. The revi... moreewer praises its aggressive styling, which successfully channels the spirit of classic Chargers, and its substantial, muscular proportions that differentiate it from crossover-based EVs. Performance is a major highlight, with the Scat Pack delivering exhilarating acceleration (0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds) and a thrilling, albeit loud, auditory experience through its synthesized engine notes. Handling is described as surprisingly agile for its nearly 6,000 lb weight, offering a more athletic feel than its gasoline predecessor. However, the review points out significant drawbacks, including a limited estimated range of 241 miles (dropping to 216 with summer tires), a high starting price of $76,000 for the Scat Pack (which can climb significantly with options), and a primitive adaptive cruise control system. Interior criticisms include a disappointing premium audio system and some hard plastics, though the overall design is appreciated. Despite its flaws, the reviewer expresses a strong emotional connection to the car, finding it special and confidence-inspiring, even if it's not the most practical or sensible EV choice on the market. less

The Best American-Made Cars

This episode of The Driveway Podcast tackles the complex definition of "Made in America," focusing on vehicles assembled within the US, rega... morerdless of brand origin. The hosts highlight the Honda Civic Hatchback as their top pick for small cars, praising its Indiana assembly, practicality, and enjoyable driving dynamics, noting it's a "home run" without compromise. The Honda Accord is lauded as the best mid-size car, built in Ohio, offering a delightful blend of space, comfort, and engaging driving. For sports cars, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (built in Kentucky) is celebrated as an unparalleled dollar-for-dollar performance value and an iconic American symbol. The Honda CR-V, assembled in Ohio and Indiana, is recognized for its stylish design, practical interior, and refined driving experience in the small SUV segment. The Kia Telluride, manufactured in Georgia, is deemed the best mid-size SUV for its true three-row capability. In the luxury SUV category, the BMW X5, built in South Carolina, is praised for its exquisite feel and luxurious appointments. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 stands out as a top EV choice, assembled in Georgia, admired for its distinctive styling and spacious interior, though a rugged XRT variant is met with mixed reactions. The Rivian R1S is selected as the luxury EV, built in Illinois, noted for its personalization, impressive performance, and significant range, despite not prioritizing efficiency. For trucks, the Hyundai Santa Cruz (built in Alabama) is chosen as the small pickup, with the hosts acknowledging it might be due to a lack of other US-assembled options, while the large pickup category is not explicitly detailed in this segment of the transcript. less

Is The Brand-New TrailSport Worth It? | 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid Review

The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid, particularly in the new TrailSport trim, is presented as a compelling, albeit pricey, option in the competitive compact cr... moreossover market. The reviewer praises its attractive styling, especially the exclusive Ash Green Pearl paint and rugged TrailSport accents, deeming it the best-looking in its class. The interior is highlighted for its functionality, thoughtful layout, and quality materials, with ample space for passengers and cargo. The hybrid powertrain is commended for its efficiency, achieving up to 35 MPG combined in the TrailSport configuration, and its smooth, predictable driving dynamics, including responsive steering and braking. However, the reviewer notes increased road and wind noise compared to competitors like the Nissan Rogue, and expresses reservations about the TrailSport's $40,000+ starting price, suggesting it's largely a styling package with all-terrain tires. While acknowledging its superior on-road manners and overall refinement compared to rivals like the Subaru Forester Wilderness, the CR-V TrailSport is deemed less capable off-road. less

Off-Roading Hybrids Compared: 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro vs 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys '41

This comparison pits the 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro against the 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys '41, highlighting their strengths as factory-capabl... moree off-roaders with hybrid powertrains. The reviewer finds the Tacoma superior for daily commuting due to its more comfortable, stable, and quieter on-road manners, superior handling, and better seating. Its advanced suspension and larger size contribute to a more refined driving experience. Conversely, the Wrangler excels off-road with its nimble maneuverability, classic ruggedness, and unique open-air configuration options. While the Wrangler's hybrid system is seamless, the reviewer notes its solid axles and less sophisticated suspension make it less composed on pavement. The Tacoma offers better towing capacity and a more practical bed, while the Wrangler's rear seat compromises cargo space. Ultimately, for everyday livability, the Tacoma is preferred, but the Wrangler remains an impeccable off-road machine. less

Future Classics in the US and UK | The Driveway Podcast Episode 10

This episode of The Driveway Podcast brings together experts from CarGurus, Autolist, and Pistonheads to discuss the concept of 'future classic&#... more039; cars. The conversation delves into what defines a future classic, generally agreeing on vehicles from the 2000s onwards that offer a blend of modern usability and analog driving engagement. Key vehicles discussed include the Cadillac CTS-V Wagon and Hyundai Veloster N, highlighted for their unique blend of performance and practicality. The Porsche 996 is noted as a prime example of a model that has emerged from a period of depreciation to gain appreciation. The discussion also touches upon the challenges and joys of importing cars, particularly the 25-year rule in the US and the prevalence of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars in the UK. While the episode focuses on a broad range of cars, it emphasizes the emotional and cultural appreciation that elevates a car to future classic status. less

What Are the Best 7-Seat SUVs on the Market Today?

The CarGurus editorial team discusses the best 7-seat SUVs available, emphasizing that while minivans serve a similar purpose, SUVs offer a more styli... moresh alternative. The podcast highlights a diverse range of vehicles, from the affordable Mitsubishi Outlander (with a plug-in hybrid option) to larger, more premium options like the Lincoln Aviator and Acura MDX. Key considerations for buyers include third-row usability, cargo space, and the availability of hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains. The hosts particularly praise the Honda Pilot for its usable third row and clean styling, and the Acura MDX for offering a near-luxury experience at a more accessible price point. While acknowledging the popularity of models like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, the discussion also touches on the practicality of the Subaru Ascent and the capability of the Nissan Pathfinder. Reliability concerns are raised regarding the Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and the Lexus TX is noted as a disappointment. Ultimately, the team agrees that the 7-seat SUV segment is highly competitive with few bad options, benefiting consumers with well-executed vehicles across various price points. less

New RAV4! New EVs! Toyota's Had a Big Month! The Driveway Podcast Episode 06

Toyota has had a significant month, culminating in the announcement of the all-new, sixth-generation RAV4, which will be exclusively hybrid or plug-in... more hybrid, marking a departure from gas-only powertrains. The new RAV4 evolves the popular fifth generation's design with updated front and rear styling, and a significantly improved interior featuring larger screens and refined climate controls. Toyota is also expanding its EV lineup with the BZ (formerly BZ4X) and the new C-HR, both offering improved range and faster charging, including the adoption of the NACS charging standard. The BZ gains a more appealing front-end design, while the C-HR, a revamped nameplate, boasts a sporty coupe-like SUV profile. Additionally, Toyota introduced the BZ Woodland and C-HR Woodland variants, alongside updated models like the Camry Nightshade Edition and Corolla Hatchback FX trim, and a refreshed Corolla Cross. While pricing remains unannounced, the RAV4's move to an all-hybrid lineup is expected to increase its starting price, potentially impacting its competitive edge against rivals like the Honda CR-V. less

Buying a Commuter Car Help The Driveway Podcast Ep. 5

This episode of The Driveway Podcast tackles the complex task of helping a co-host find a second commuter car for a growing family, with a budget unde... morer $20,000. The discussion highlights that while lists of 'best commuter cars' exist, individual needs are paramount. Key considerations include the low annual mileage (under 5,000 miles), making fuel economy less critical than upfront cost and reliability. The hosts explore various options, from hybrids and EVs to traditional gasoline cars, ultimately leaning towards reliable sedans or compact crossovers. While EVs are discussed, the challenges of home charging for low-mileage users are noted. The Honda Accord emerges as a strong contender, praised for its space and reliability, with a used hybrid model being a potential sweet spot within budget. Other options like the Subaru WRX and Volkswagen GTI are considered for their fun factor, though practicality with car seats is a concern. The consensus emphasizes prioritizing a dependable, affordable vehicle over advanced tech or extreme fuel efficiency for this specific use case. less

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