2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV On Sale Now

The all-new, all-electric 2023 Lexus RZ 450e, the brand’s first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle, with 308 total system horsepower rating from a 71.4 kWh battery delivering an EPA-estimated range rating of up to 220 miles when equipped with 18” wheels and an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 115/98/107 (city/highway/combined). When utilizing 20” wheels, the RZ has an EPA-estimated MPGe of 102/87/95 with an EPA-estimated range of up to 196 miles. RZ 450e utilizes DIRECT4, an all-wheel drive system first introduced with the 2023 Lexus RX, which features a rear eAxle coupled with the engine and front motor. The 2023 RZ 450e is built in Toyota City, Japan, and is on sale now in limited quantities.

Subaru of America President/CEO Tom Doll To Assume New Role

Tom Doll, President and Chief Executive Officer of Subaru of America will step down from the day-to-day management of the company and will assume the role of Corporate Advisor based at the Camden, New Jersey headquarters effective April 1st . It comes after more than 40 years with Subaru of America, including roles as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer from 2009, and subsequently President from 2013 and CEO from 2018. He led Subaru of America to 12 consecutive years of sales records from 2008 to 2019 when the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic shut down production. Doll also served as Chief Financial Officer, Vice President of Business and Strategic Planning, Director of Accounting, Director of Treasury Operations and Manager of Treasury Operations. Here are a few of many interviews with my friend and one of the auto industry's great leaders:

2021 Tom Doll interview.  

2013: Tom Doll interview. 

2010 Tom Doll interview. 

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV Starts At $48,250 This Spring

The new generation 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV,  Mercedes-Benz USA best-selling model, is powered by a new, more powerful 255 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a second-generation integrated starter generator and 48-volt mild hybrid system that provides up to an additional 23 horsepower. The interior features a new floating 12.3-inch digital instrument panel along with an 11.9-inch central display that rises from the center console. The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV will start from $48,250 (including $1,150 destination and delivery charge). The new generation 2023 GLC SUV will arrive in U.S. dealerships in the Spring.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV Starts At $79,050 This Spring

The all-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, the second fully-electric SUV from Mercedes-Benz based on the premium-class electric architecture, comes in EQE 350+ SUV, EQE 350 4MATIC SUV and EQE 500 4MATIC starting at $79,050 (including $1,150 destination and delivery charge) and will arrive at U.S. dealerships this Spring. The EQE SUV improves range using a heat pump and an intelligent powertrain management system that takes heat from the electric drive (inverter and electric motor) and the high-voltage battery to heat the interior rather than drawing on battery power for the heating system, thus increasing the range. The all-new intelligent powertrain management system monitors at 160 times per second, to determine if the front electric motor is necessary. If not, a clutch disconnects or re-engages the front motor in 100 milliseconds to reduce drag and improves range. The top-of-the line EQE 500 4MATIC starts at $96,350.

2024 Subaru Outback SUV and Legacy Sedan Coming This Fall

The 2024 Subaru Outback SUV starting at $30,190 (including $1,295 destination & delivery) and Legacy sedan starting at $25,985 are powered by a 182 horsepower 2.5-liter BOXER engine paired with a Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission) with 8-speed manual shift mode and steering wheel paddle shift control switches. The Outback Base is equipped with the STARLINK dual 7.0-inch center information display with the upper 7-inch touchscreen operating audio controls while the lower 7-inch touchscreen controls for climate, EyeSight, X-MODE, and other vehicle systems. Priced at $40,655, the Outback Onyx Edition XT upgrades to the 260 horsepower 2.4-liter turbo BOXER engine as well as 180-Degree Front View Monitor, 8-way power front passenger seat, heated rear seats (outboard seat position), and a full-size spare tire. This year, the Outback Wilderness receives updated front styling. Both models will begin arriving at Subaru retailers this Fall.

2024 Subaru Impreza Starts At $24,085

The all-new 2024 Subaru Impreza, the sixth-generation Impreza which debuted at 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, is powered by a 152-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine in the Base and Sport trims and a 182 horsepower 2.5-liter BOXER engine in the RS model, and are mated to a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with the Sport and RS trims featuring an 8-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters that allow the driver to control the transmission via eight pre-set ratios. The Impreza comes as a 5-door hatchback and is available in Base, Sport and new RS trim levels. The 2024 Impreza has a starting price of $24,085 (including $1,090 destination & delivery charge).

2024 BMW X5 M and X6 M Competition Models Start At $123,295

The new 2024 BMW X5 M Sports Activity Vehicle and 2024 X6 M Sports Activity Coupe will now be offered exclusively as Competition models with a new 617 horsepower 4.4-liter V8 engine with 48V mild-hybrid technology integrated into the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission delivering an additional up to 12 horsepower. The new BMW X5 M Competition, which starts at $123,295 (including $995 destination and handling) and BMW X6 M Competition at $128,195, come as standard with BMW Live Cockpit Professional, an M-specific version of the latest-generation BMW iDrive interface. Powered by BMW Operating System 8, there's a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9 inch control display screen. At launch, customers will be able to choose from around 50 BMW Individual paint shades for both models. Production will begin in Spartanburg, South Carolina, in April.

Hyundai IONIQ 6 Starts At $42,715 This Spring

Hyundai IONIQ 6 SE Standard Range with its 53-kWh battery pack and 240 mile range has an MSRP of $42,715 (including $1,115 delivery) and will be available in limited quantities this Summer. The IONIQ 6 SE Long Range with an EPA-estimated 361 miles of range from its larger 77.4 kWh battery has a MSRP of $46,615. Dual motor AWD models have a starting MSRP of $50,115 and have up to 316 miles of range. Eligibility for state tax credits is dependent on individual tax circumstances. The 2023 IONIQ 6 goes on sale this Spring at Hyundai dealerships.

VIDEO: IONIQ 6 introduced at 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show.

2023 Nissan Sentra Starts At $21,045 Now

The 2023 Nissan Sentra, in S, SV and SR grades and powered by a 149 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an Xtronic CVT, is on sale now with a starting MSRP of $21,045 (including $1,095 destination and handling charge). S and SV grades are rated at 29 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined and the Sentra SR is rated 28 mpg city, 37 mpg highway and 32 mpg combined. Nissan Safety Shield 360 technologies include Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist and Rear Automatic Braking. 

2024 Cadillac XT4 Goes On Sale This Summer

The 2024 Cadillac XT4 is powered by a 235 horsepower 2.0L turbocharged engine with Active Fuel Management deactivating some of the engine’s cylinders in certain driving conditions and nine-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift control. The XT4 has an available twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system available on all trims that helps traction and vehicle control, whether the road is dry, wet, snowy, or icy. Standard safety and driver assistance technologies include Blind Zone Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. The XT4 has a new 33-inch-diagonal LED color touchscreen display command center for its infotainment system and suite of advanced safety features. The 2024 Cadillac XT4 goes on sale this Summer.

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 Starts At $66,895

The 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70, the third electric vehicle from Genesis powered by 160 kW front + 160 kW rear electric motors and a 77.4 kWh battery, starts at $66,895 (including $1,045 destination charge) has a 12.3-inch digital cluster and navigation system, vehicle-to-load charging and more. The 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 Prestige AWD, at an MSRP of $73,695, adds Nappa leather seating surfaces, a leatherette wrapped upper instrument panel, microfiber suede headliner, head-up display, a 3D instrument cluster, premium audio, active noise control, heated 2nd row seats and steering wheel and manual read door shades.

2024 Buick Encore GX Starts At $28,090

The 2024 Buick Encore GX small SUV comes standard with a 137 horsepower 1.2L turbocharged engine or available 155 horsepower 1.3L turbocharged engine with AWD available across all trims. The Virtual Cockpit System features 19 diagonal inches of high-definition screens under one sheet of glass, comprising an 11-inch diagonal infotainment system and a configurable 8-inch diagonal driver cluster screen, both angled toward the driver. The 2024 Encore GX includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, IntelliBeam auto high-beams as standard. The Encore GX Preferred trim starts at $28,090 (including $1,195 destination freight charge) with Sport Touring starting at $29,290 and Avenir starting at $34,390. Customers will be able to build and order a new Encore GX on Buick.com starting in May.

Mercedes-Benz S 580e 4MATIC Starts At $123,700

The Mercedes-Benz S 580e 4MATIC with the fourth generation hybrid drive system provided by a 367 horsepower 3.0L I-6 six-cylinder engine paired with a 21.5kWh battery and 148 horsepower permanently excited synchronous electric motor with internal rotor creates a combined total output of 510 horsepower, delivering an all-electric range of about 62 miles according to WLTP, double the previous model. A 9.6 kW charger is on board as standard for at home and public charging, while an optional 60 kW DC charger is available for fast charging. With the 60 kW DC charger, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in 20 minutes. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class plug-in hybrid pricing will start from $123,700 (including $1,150 destination and delivery charge) and is now available to order for delivery in the first half of 2023.

2024 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport

The new 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport, powered by a 269 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive standard and 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is available across the model lineup. A 12-inch floating infotainment display is the focal point in the redesigned cockpit, and every trim level has a 10.25-inch fully configurable Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro.

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Starts At $26,290 This Spring

The all-new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, available in Base, Premium, Sport and Limited trim levels, is powered by a 152 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine and the Sport and Limited upgrade to a responsive 182 horsepower 2.5-liter BOXER engine. A center information display with SUBARU STARLINK dual 7.0-inch high-resolution touchscreens comes standard on the entry level Crosstrek. The 2024 Crosstrek comes standard with the latest version of the award-winning EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Keep Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is available on Premium and higher. Models equipped with both Eyesight and Blind-Spot Detection now include Automatic Emergency Steering which works with these safety features to assist with steering control to help avoid a collision at speeds less than 50 mph. The third-generation Crosstrek has a starting price of $26,290 (including $1,295 destination and delivery) with the Base and Premium will begin arriving in Subaru retailers this Spring and the Sport and Limited will follow in the Summer.   

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Coming Late This Year

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, offered in the XLE grade, Limited and Platinum trims, is powered by a 2.4L turbo gas engine, a 2.5L hybrid with a manufacturer-estimated 34 combined MPG, or the 362 horsepower Hybrid MAX which offers 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity. Controls are centered around the standard 12.3-inch multimedia display. Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert is standard on all grades. Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking is available on Limited and Platinum grades. A Panoramic View Monitor is available and provides a live rotating 360-degree view around the vehicle. The price and on-sale date of the all-new 2024 Grand Highlander will be announced later this Summer.

2024 BMW X5 Starts At $66,195 In April

The 2024 BMW X5 comes in 3 models, the X5 sDrive40i starting at $66,195 (including $995 destination and handling) and the X5 xDrive40i at $68,495, are powered by a 375 horsepower 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine. The X5 xDrive50e at $73,495 is powered by a 483 horsepower powertrain with a preliminary estimated electric-only range of up to 40 miles. The new X5 M60i xDrive, powered by a 523 horsepower 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo V8 engine paired with 48V mild hybrid technology starts at $73,495. The X6, in its third generation, has two trims, the X6 xDrive40i at $74,895 and the X6 M60i xDrive starting at $94,595. The latest-generation 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission is fitted to all variants of the new BMW X5 and BMW X6. The fully digital BMW Curved Display is made up of a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches, both located behind a single glass surface. Production will begin in Spartanburg, South Carolina, in April.

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 e 4MATIC PHEV Coming This Year

The new 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 e 4MATIC plug-in hybrid is equipped with a permanently excited 134 horsepower synchronous motor, for a combined system output of up to 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of system torque. During city driving the GLE prioritizes electric driving. Thanks to an Off-Road drive program, the plug-in hybrid can also drive electrically on off-road terrain. The GLE 400 e 4MATIC is available with a standard 11 kW AC on-board charger as well as an optional 60 kW DC charger. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE model range will arrive at U.S. dealerships in 2023.

2024 Mazda CX-90 Starts At $40,970 This Spring

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 three-row crossover, built on Mazda's all-new large platform, is available with an all-new 340 horsepower e-Skyactiv G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbo engine equipped with M-Hybrid Boost (a mild-hybrid system), or a plug-in hybrid with 323 horsepower combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor and 17.8 kWh high-capacity battery designed to operate purely on the electric motor in a variety of driving scenarios. Also available is a 280 horsepower e-Skyactiv G 3.3L Turbo engine. Both inline six engines are equipped with M-Hybrid Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The engines are paired with an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission, specifically designed for the electrified longitudinal powertrains and large platform vehicles. The 2024 CX-90, with three powertrains and 11 package choices, will have a starting MSRP of $40,970 (including $1,375 for destination and handling) and will arrive in dealerships in this Spring.

2024 BMW M3 CS Starts At $119,695 This Spring

The limited-edition 2024 BMW M3 CS, powered by a 543 horsepower 3.0-liter inline-6 with an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, features the latest-generation BMW iDrive based on BMW Operating System 8, which includes the BMW Curved Display. This is formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches, which are housed together behind a curved glass surface. The new BMW M3 CS starts at $119,695 (including $995 destination and handling) and will be built in limited numbers at BMW Group Plant Munich starting in March 2023.

2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV Starts At $44,590

The all-new 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale is powered by a 285 horsepower plug-in hybrid all-wheel-drive system combining a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery and 90-kW electric motor with a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine that delivers an electric range of more than 30 miles. The 2024 Tonale has a starting MSRP of $44,590 (including $1,595 destination charge).

2024 Mazda CX-90 Coming This Year

The first-ever 2024 Mazda CX-90 three-row crossover SUV will be offered with an all-new 340 horsepower 3.3-liter inline six e-Skyactiv Turbo engine featuring a mild-hybrid system. Both the 2024 Mazda CX-90 and CX-90 PHEV are coming this year. 

2023 Lexus RC 300 Starts At $45,470 Soon

The 2023 Lexus RC 300, powered by a 241 horsepower 2.0-liter, twin-scroll turbocharged and intercooled in-line four-cylinder engine with direct injection paired to a rear-wheel drive system and an eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic transmission, starts at $45,470 (including $1,150 delivery, processing and handling fee). For 2023, the RC and RC F interior have been updated with available an 10.3-inch (standard 8-inch) touchscreen multimedia display and interior touches to the instrument panels, glove box and side registers. The RC 300 AWD pairs a six-speed automatic transmission with a 260 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 starting at $48,160. It features Variable Valve Timing with intelligence designed to provide added torque at lower speeds and greater horsepower at higher speeds. 

The RC 350 ($48,400) and RC 350 AWD ($50,565) are powered by a 311-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that features an eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift transmission for the rear-wheel drive model and a six-speed automatic transmission for the AWD. For 2023, an exclusive F SPORT Special Appearance Package ($54,745 -pictured above) is available with a bi-tone exterior color combination including an available Incognito body color paired with an Obsidian roof/hood and 19” dark finish Enkei alloy wheels. The high-performance RC F ($67,845) is powered by a 472 horsepower. 5.0-liter V8. The RC F Track Edition is $100,720. 2023 RC and RC F models are expected to arrive in dealerships in early 2023.

2023 Jeep® Cherokee

The 2023 Jeep® Cherokee, powered by either a 270 horsepower 2.0-liter I-4 turbocharged engine (Trailhawk 4x4), or a 180 horsepower 2.4-liter I-4 engine (Altitude LUX 4x4) paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission, offers the Altitude LUX 4x4 and Trailhawk 4x4 in 4x4 models. The new Cherokee Altitude LUX 4x4 trim has 17-inch Gloss Black painted aluminum wheels, LED lighting, and Gloss Black grille surrounds, accents and badging. Also includes black Nappa leather seats, Piano Black interior accents, 7-inch multi-view, full-color thin-film transistor and heated steering wheel and seats. An 18-inch Gloss Black wheel is optional. Maximum towing is 4,000 pounds.

2022 U.S. Vehicle Sales

Total 2022 of 13,899,871 were down 7.8 percent from 2021:

General Motors (Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick, GMC) delivered 2,274,088 vehicles in the U.S. in 2022, a 2.5 percent increase over 2021.

Toyota Motor North America (Toyota, Lexus) reported year-end 2022 U.S. sales of 2,108,458 vehicles, a decrease of 9.6 percent compared to 2021.

Ford Motor Company (Ford, Lincoln) sold 1,864,464 units a 2.2 percent decline from a year ago.

Stellantis FCA US LLC (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Fiat, Jeep, Alfa Romeo) reported sales of 1,547,076 vehicles for 2022, a decrease of 13 percent from 2021.

Tesla vehicle deliveries of 1,313,851 was up 40 percent from 2021.

American Honda (Honda, Acura) reported 2022 sales of 983,507, a drop of 32.9 percent from a year ago.

Nissan Group (Nissan, Infiniti) 2022 U.S. sales were 729,350, a decrease of 25.4 percent compared to the prior year.

Hyundai Motor America sold 724,265 units in 2022, a 2 percent decrease compared with 2021. 

Kia America sold 654,554 vehicles in 2022, an increase of 1.7-percent compared to previous retail record in 2021.

Subaru ended calendar year 2022 with 556,581 vehicles sales, a 4.7 percent decrease compared with calendar year 2021.

Volkswagen reported 2022 sales of 301,069, down 20.5 percent. Audi sales of 186,875 was down 5 percent from 2021. Porsche Cars North America 2022 U.S. retail deliveries totaled 70,065 cars for their best year ever, surpassing the previous record set in 2021 by 45 vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz USA recorded 2022 sales of 286,764 Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles, up 4 percent versus 2021, and 64,185 Vans, an increase of 20 percent versus 2021. This brings MBUSA's total year-to-date sales to 350,949, an increase of 6.5 percent versus 2021.

BMW brand 2022 sales of 332,388 was a 1.3 percent decrease while MINI brand sales of 29,504 was a 1.4 percent decrease compared to vehicles sold in 2021. 

Mazda North American Operations 2022 sales totaled 294,908 vehicles, a decrease of 11.4 percent compared to 2021. 

Volvo Car USA reported sales of 102,038 cars for the full year 2022, down 16.5 percent compared with last year. 

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported 2022 sales of 85,810 vehicles, down 15.9 percent vs 2021  102,037.

Bentley Motors reported total sales of 15,174 in 2022, an increase of 4 percent over 2021, the previous record year, and the first time Bentley has reached over 15,000 cars.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

2023 Mazda MX-30 EV Starts At $35,385 This Spring

 The 2023 Mazda MX-30 EV powered by Mazda’s e-Skyactiv technology and a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, is for daily commuting with an EPA estimated range of 100 miles on a full charge. The MX-30 EV trim starts at $35,385 (including $1,275 for destination and handling) and the MX-30 EV w/ Premium Plus package at $38,395 and will be arriving in California dealerships this Spring. The 8.8-inch large center display features the latest Mazda Connect™ system, Apple CarPlay™, and Android Auto™. All MX-30 models offer many i-Activsense safety features including Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Smart Brake Support, Rear Direction Base Safety (Smart Brake Support-Reverse & Rear Cross-Traffic Braking), Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, and High Beam Control.

Ram Revolution BEV Concept

The Ram Revolution BEV (Battery-electric Vehicle) Concept, powered by two electric drive modules for all-wheel-drive capability, previews 2024 production models that will feature four-wheel steering with up to 15 degrees of articulation for greater vehicle maneuverability, third-row jump seats, and a full touchscreen display comprised of two screens offers up to 28 inches of screen space. The Ram Revolution BEV Concept offers up to 100 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW. The Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered virtual assistant has a 3D Ram avatar that acts as the vehicle's face, responding to various voice commands from users.

BMW i Vision Dee - The Future

BMW i Vision Dee (Digital Emotional Experience ) is a futuristic mid-size sedan that showcases a multi-colored, fully variable and individually configurable exterior by applying E Ink to the body thus creating and displaying up to 32 colors. The BMW Head-Up-Display extends across the full width of the windshield which will be available from 2025 onwards in the NEUE KLASSE models. The BMW Mixed Reality Slider, in combination with the advanced Head-up Display, using shy-tech sensors on the instrument panel, lets drivers decide how much digital content they want to see on the Head-Up Display. 

2023 Honda Accord Starts At $28,390 This Month

The all-new 11th generation 2023 Honda Accord, available in six trim levels (two 1.5L turbo-powered and four hybrid), will start at $28,390 (including $1,095 destination charge) for the Accord LX powered by a 192 horsepower 1.5-liter turbo engine with VTEC® and a retuned continuously variable automatic transmission when it arrives at Honda dealerships this month. The hybrid-electric powered 2023 Accord Sport starts at $32,990.

2023 Ram 1500 TRX Havoc Edition Starts At $106,445 This Quarter

The 2023 Ram 1500 TRX Havoc Edition with new Baja Yellow exterior color, powered by a  702 horsepower 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI® V-8 engine, starts at $106,445 (including $1,895 destination). The TRX Havoc Edition features 18-inch all black bead lock capable wheels, dual pane panoramic sunroof, spray-in bedliner, cargo tie-downs, bed step and an LED cab-mounted brake light and inside Prowler Yellow accent stitching, an embroidered “TRX” seat back logo, unique carbon fiber accents, a leather and carbon fiber flat–bottom steering wheel and Head-up Display. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, Lane Keep Assist and pedestrian emergency braking. The new 2023 Ram 1500 TRX Havoc Edition models, available in very limited quantities, go on sale early in the first quarter of 2023.

Test Drive: 2022 Toyota Rav4 Prime XSE

The Toyota Rav4 Prime plug-in hybrid was introduced at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show and went on sale in the summer of 2020 as a 2021 model. The RAV4 Prime has 302 combined net horsepower. The standard 6.6kW onboard charger takes approximately 2.5 hours to charge the battery and when fully charged, RAV4 Prime has an EPA-estimated range rating of 42 miles of EV-only driving. It seamlessly switches between hybrid and EV modes delivering an EPA-estimated combined 94 MPGe rating. On our 300 mile test drive, we remained in hybrid mode and achieved good fuel economy. The JBL® Premium Audio system has 800 watts of power to drive 11 speakers in nine locations, including front horn tweeters and a subwoofer.

Starting MSRP for the 2023 Rav4 Prime SE is $42,925 (including $1,335 delivery, processing and handling fee) and for the XSE is $46,795 going higher with options like the $3,350 Premium package with headup display, panoramic glass roof and more, the $1,620 premium audio package and the $375 weather package.

Click to view video.

2023 Subaru WRX Starts At $31,625 This Spring

The fifth-generation 2023 Subaru WRX is powered by a 271 horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER® engine mated to a standard 6-speed manual transmission with an optional Subaru Performance Transmission available on all trim levels (standard on GT). An available option package for Premium adds an 11-speaker Harman Kardon® Speaker System plus Power Moonroof for $1,875. The 2023 WRX arrives in retailers this Spring and offered in four trim levels: Base starting at $31,625 (including $1,020 destination and delivery), Premium from $34,125, Limited starting at $38,515 and GT starting at $44,415.

2022 LA Auto Show Video: Ford F-150 Lightning Pickup Truck Update

Jason Turnbull, Senior Marketing Manager for the Ford F-150 Lightning pickup truck gives an update on vehicle improvements and price increases since its reveal in May 2021. 

Click to watch interview.

2022 LA Auto Show Video: Hyundai IONIQ 6 EV

The all-electric Hyundai IONIQ 6, "Electrified Streamliner", is for the EV sedan buyer as Hyundai Motor America Senior Manager, Product Planning Mike Evanoff discusses in this interview from the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show. 

The IONIQ 7 Concept was shown at the 2021 LA Auto Show along side the IONIQ 5 EV SUV. (Click to view.)

Click here to view interview.

2022 LA Auto Show Video: 2024 Kia Seltos Refresh

The Kia Seltos, which debuted at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show, is getting a refresh for the 2024 model year as Kia America Product Manager Jenny Chang discusses in this interview. 

Click here to watch interview.

Test Drive: 2023 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige

The all-new 5th generation 2023 Kia Sportage subcompact SUV, which hit the roads in Spring 2022, has many driver assisted features and a slightly more powerful new 187 horsepower 2.5-liter I-4 engine with a new 8-speed automatic transmission. It's 7.1 inches longer than previous generation on a 3.4-inch longer wheelbase. This 353 mile test drive, mainly on the highway, delivered 24MPG. This top-of-the-line X-Pro Prestige AWD, with 1.5-inch increased ground clearance, is priced at $38,815 (including $1,215 freight and handling charge). It was very impressive and the Lane Keeping Assist worked as well as it did on the previous generation. Operating the climate controls on the same knobs as the audio system took some getting used to, otherwise, intuitive function management. 

Click here to view video. 

Toyota bZ SUV Concept

The Toyota bZ (Beyond Zero) Compact SUV Concept full battery-electric vehicle.

Jeep Avenger 4x4 Concept EV For Europe Next Year

The Jeep Avenger 4x4 Concept, delivering a targeted electric range of 248 miles from the second-generation 400 Volt electric powertrain that supplies 115 kW, corresponding to 156 horsepower, and 260 Nm of maximum torque. The new 54 kWh battery is made up of 17 modules and 102 cells utilizing NMC 811 Lithium-Ion chemistry which becomes 341 miles in the urban cycle*. 24 minutes are sufficient to charge the batteries from 20 to 80% charge. The Jeep Avenger is positioned in the growing B-SUV segment, Europe's second biggest in terms of volume, arrives in showrooms early next year and joins a portfolio of Jeep vehicles which are 100 percent electrified in continental Europe.

2023 Jeep® Compass Loaded With Features

The 2023 Jeep® Compass, powered by a 200 horsepower 2.0-liter direct injection turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, features an available Highway Assist semi-autonomous driving system, parallel and perpendicular park assist and Traffic Sign Recognition systems, plus a 360-degree Surround View camera. For 2023, the all-new Jeep Compass lineup consists of Sport (4x4 only), Latitude (4x4 only), Altitude package available, Latitude LUX (4x4 only), Limited (4x4 only); (RED) Edition and High Altitude packages available, Trailhawk (4x4 only) trim levels. Other features are up to 19 inches of water fording and up to 2,000-lb. towing capability (when properly equipped). All trims include Drowsy Driver Detection, Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking, Pedestrian/Cyclist Automatic Emergency Braking, Active Lane Management, Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection systems.

Video Interview: Mike Darrow, CEO, TrueCar

TrueCar, an automotive digital marketplace connecting buyers to dealers (ticker: TRUE), continues to adjust its mission as new CEO Mike Darrow tells us in this interview. Separately, TrueCar's recent survey shows consumer's interest in purchasing an electric vehicle has grown from 52% in March to 59% nationally in August and 31% are "much more likely" to consider an EV. Los Angeles residents, who pay the highest price in the country for a gallon of gas, are 68% more likely to consider buying an EV with 38% "much more likely" to purchase an EV.    

Click to view interview. 

2022 Los Angeles Auto Show - On Now Through Nov. 27th

The 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show has been a manufacturers auto show in the 30 plus years that I've been covering it. It's typically preceded by two media days packed with as many as twenty press conferences with numerous global vehicle debuts, not this year. Subaru with their usual outstanding forest display provided the only global vehicle debut, the all-new 2024 Subaru Impreza. The other scheduled media conferences staged by recognized manufacturers were Hyundai, Kia, Fiat and Genesis for North American market unveilings. If you want a theme park - you've got it. 

Where are they? Manufacturers noticeably absent from this year's LA Auto Show are luxury brands BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Acura, Bentley, Rolls Royce and others like MINI and Mazda. Honda's display is put on by their Southern California dealers. 

Why lack of participation? Internet virtual debuts, the EV theme, Covid, crime fear, return on investment for expensive displays, shortage of product specialists, supply chain & chip issues?

Subaru with their usual outstanding forest display provided the only global vehicle debut, the all-new 2024 Subaru Impreza.  

Other than Detroit, New York, Chicago and Los Angeles which are traditionally manufacturer shows, most auto shows around the U.S. and Canada are staged by local market dealers. L.A.-based dealer group Galpin, which has always had a presence at the L.A. Show with their Hall of Customs, stepped up this year displaying Lincoln, Mazda and Volvo vehicles. To fill the huge vehicle absence, Toyota has an interactive Sports Festival, while Ford, Ram, Jeep offer indoor electric vehicle rides and there's virtual reality driving simulators. EV-only brands like Polestar and Vinfast have displays along with EV charging companies like EVgo and Blink. 

If you're shopping for a luxury vehicle, Porsche, Lexus and Genesis are at this year's LA Auto Show, that's about it. There are some gems despite lack of manufacturers, like the all-new Ford Mustang Dark Horse (above) has a new 500 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine. 

Vehicles to check out include the Ford Lightning pickup truck (above), Chevrolet Corvette, the new Toyota Prius, Subaru Impreza, Hyundai and Genesis concept vehicles. 

2023 Nissan Armada Starts At $52,095 Now

The 2023 Nissan Armada, in S, SV, SL and Platinum trim levels, is powered by a 400 horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 and has a standard 8,500-pound maximum towing capacity. Each grade is available with rear-wheel drive or Nissan's advanced Auto 4WD system with two-speed transfer case. The 2023 Nissan Armada has a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay®, wired Android Auto™ and available wireless charging. Every Armada grade features standard Nissan Safety Shield® 360. On sale now starting at $52,095 (including $1,695 destination and handling).

2024 Kia Seltos Arrives In First Half 2023 With Changes

The 2024 Kia Seltos gets refreshed and is the latest Kia to get an X-Line trim powered by a 195 horsepower 1.6-liter turbo-GDI engine paired with an available 8-speed automatic transmission and an available panoramic display featuring two 10.25-inch screens. Available in front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, the 2024 Seltos is expected to hit showrooms in the first half of 2023.  

Fiat 500e Makes A U.S. Comeback In 2024

The new Fiat 500e battery-electric vehicle with a 150 miles range will return to the U.S. market in early 2024.

Hyundai N Vision 74 Hydrogen Fuel Cell EV Concept - Déjà Vu

Hyundai N Vision 74 hydrogen fuel cell hybrid concept, with a driving range of 373+ miles, has a hybrid structure of a battery-electric in combination with an FCEV system. The fuel cell stack, with an output of 85 kW (Max 95 kW), is mounted in the front, and a 62.4kWh T-type battery is mounted in the bottom to lower overall height and center of gravity. The battery retains an 800V high-speed charging architecture. Independent, rear-mounted motors, one per wheel, generate a total power output of 500kW. N Vision 74 features dual-charging capability, and the rear-mounted 9.3 lb. capacity hydrogen fuel tanks can be refueled within five minutes. The 85kW fuel cell converts hydrogen to electricity to charge the 62kWh battery. Hyundai says the inspiration came from the 1974 Hyundai Pony Coupe. Hydrogen powered cars have been in development for decades so you might say this concept resembling the Back to the Future DeLorean fits. The Toyota Mirai and the Hyundai Nexo are hydrogen vehicles currently in the market.

All-New 2024 Subaru Impreza Arrives This Spring

The 6th generation all-new 2024 Subaru Impreza, with a revised Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, is powered by a 152 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine on the Base and Sport trims while the new RS upgrades to a 182 horsepower 2.5-liter BOXER engine. Standard on all trim levels is a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). The Sport and RS trims feature an 8-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters. Standard on all 2024 Impreza models is the latest version of EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. The compact car comes exclusively as a 5-door hatchback when it arrives in Subaru retailers this Spring.