5 collector cars Gen-X, Boomers, and Milennials were searching for during the pandemic

Classic Cars

Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

In 2020, Americans were given a lot of time to sit at home and distract themselves by surfing the web. Often, they found themselves daydreaming about owning a classic or collector car.

Hagerty has released some interesting results of a survey of the company's web traffic during that period, detailing which vehicles had their quotes searched for the most and what age groups were doing the searching. Scroll down to see the results.

2000-2006 BMW M3 (E46)

The E46 generation BMW M3 was available as a coupe or a cabriolet.

Photo courtesy of BMW

Gen-Xers and Millennials are looking hard at the BMW M3s of the early 2000s. Seventy-eight percent of the quotes Hagerty received were from that age group.

The E46 edition of the car was produced as a coupe and a convertible, getting its power from the last of the S54 straight-six engines BMW produced. The automaker sold the model in a variety of special editions but the CSL was never brought to market in North America.

1997-2004 Porsche Boxster

Porsche introduced the Boxster in 1996.

Photo courtesy of Porsche AG

The Porsche Boxster celebrated a big birthday this year, but last year it was the first-generation model that was on the minds of browsers. Boomers represented 51 percent of the quotes for the Boxster followed by 33 percent by Gen-X.

The mid-engine Boxster was Porsche's first road vehicle to be originally designed as a roadster since the 914, which was in production from 1969 to 1976. A couple different engine choices were available for the first-gen Boxster when it was new and the model underwent a mid-generation update for the 2002 model year.

1984-1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

This 1989 Jeep Wagoneer sold for over $100k at Barrett-Jackson.

Photo courtesy of Barrett-Jackson

The Jeep Grand Wagoneer's popularity is picking up just as Jeep announced that they're bringing the SUV back. The new Grand Wagoneer is expected later this year.

Hagerty reported that 65 percent of all quotes for the vintage version of the SUV were from Gen-X and Millennial buyers - the target market for the new one as well.

1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird

The Pontiac Firebird was discontinued just before the Great Recession hit causing the brand to fold.

Photo by Ken Morris/Shutterstock.com

The final generation of the Pontiac Firebird is still turning heads, nearly 20 years after it left the market. During the pandemic, 63 percent of the quotes that were searched for are from Gen-X and Millennials

1990-1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The third-generation Mazda Miata went out of production six years ago.

Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

Gen-X and Millennials represented 56 percent of all quotes for the second- and third-generation Mazda Miata. The second-gen MX-5 debuted in 1997 and was put on sale for the 1999 model year. This was the generation that got rid of the pop-up headlights.

The third-gen Miata was in production from 2005 to 2015. Design-wise, the car stayed pretty true to its roots but there was one notable innovation. This generation was the first to have a retractable hardtop variant.

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Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

Here's how to nominate a local hero to win a Mazda Miata 100th Anniversary Special Edition

Giveaway

It's safe to say that 2020 has been a year of firsts for most of us. Whether it's working from home, not being able to visit friends and family, or becoming the teacher for your household. Some are going above and beyond and Mazda wants to recognize them.

The Mazda Heroes: Honoring the Human Spirit program looks to recognize individuals who have "selflessly dedicated themselves to their communities throughout 2020". Through Mazda Heroes, Mazda North American Operations will select 50 deserving people and provide each hero with a piece of its history, a Mazda MX-5 Miata 100th Anniversary Special Edition.

The company recently celebrated its history with the release of the Mazda MX-5 Miata100th Anniversary Special Edition. Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

"This year marks Mazda's 100th Anniversary. We had hoped this time would be filled with moments of celebration and appreciation for our fans, employees and partners. But given the many tragic events of 2020, we decided to express, in another way, our brand's unique heritage of trying to make things better," MNAO President Jeff Guyton said.

"In April, we launched our Essential Car Care Program to give free oil changes and car cleaning to healthcare workers across the U.S. Throughout this initiative we heard how grateful our dealers and employees were to be in service to those selflessly giving back every day. This inspired us to develop the Mazda Heroes program, which will honor individuals supporting communities and share their stories in a moment when people desire inspiration in their lives."

Those nominated can be teachers, community members, doctors, nurses, first responders, faith leathers, restaurant owners, compassionate carers, or, really, any persons who have stood out for their efforts during this intense time.

Here's how to enter a nominee. Stories can be submitted now through Oct. 25 at www.MazdaUSA.com/mazda-heroes for a chance to be honored as a Mazda Hero. Fifty individuals will be selected based on their demonstrated selfless acts, creative approaches, and contributions to community. Honorees will be announced beginning Dec. 2.

Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

2020 Mazda MX-5 RF Review: A sports car for those who think comfort is a desirable feature

Behind the Wheel

Mazda loves to remind us that it makes the best-selling two-seater sports car in history. The company mentions this in just about every press release it issues on the Miata. It's even certified by the Guinness Book of World Records.

With more than a million units sold over the past thirty years, the Miata — or MX-5 in the rest of the world — has been a reliable pick for folks looking for an authentic sports car experience at an affordable price. Lotus founder Colin Chapman said his theory on race car design was to "simplify, then add lightness". Mazda's engineers have remained more-or-less faithful to that idea over the years when it comes to the MX-5.

2020 Mazda MX-5 RF The fierce design and unique drivability of the MX-5 help make it a desirable commodity.Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

Small cars don't need a ton of power, and they're a joy to drive. The 2020 MX-5 sports a 181-horsepower, 151 lb-ft four-cylinder engine paired to a six-speed manual (or a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters, but what you really want is the manual). My test unit this week — a luxury-focused MX-5 Grand Touring — came with a limited-slip differential, a sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks, front- and rear-stabilizer bars, and, of course, rear-wheel drive. It's not necessary to understand what all that stuff does to enjoy the car, though it's an impressive list of tech.

There's a running joke in car journalism that when someone asks which car they should buy, the answer is always "Miata" regardless of whether the buyer is a 70-year old retiree or a housewife with three kids. I don't know if that's strictly true, but the MX-5 will put a smile (and a sunburn) on your face regardless of who you are.

My fully-loaded manual transmission Grand Touring RF test unit priced out at a a whopping $35,345, but included a wide array of luxe features like automatic windshield wipers and high beams, leather everything inside the (tiny) cockpit, and a nine-speaker Bose stereo system that included speakers built-in to the headrests so you can hear your tunes even with the top down.

2020 Mazda MX-5 RF The hard top of the MX-5 RF gives the convertible a sleek look.Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support is new for 2020, though there's no good place to put your phone. Or a cup of coffee. Or a handbag or really anything else except for two humans. It's really tight in there. The cupholders are two bits of plastic that go behind your elbow on the center armrest, requiring a stretching maneuver that wouldn't be out of place in a yoga studio to retrieve your beverage. There's also a diminutive "glove box" behind the cupholders that's good for holding a tube of sunscreen, your car registration, and very little else.

The trunk isn't spacious but it'll swallow a rollaboard suitcase easily enough, and the RF's hardtop doesn't affect the trunk at all which is a big plus.

The ride is firm but pleasant, with a far smoother and more refined ride than the similarly sized Toyota 86. This is the car for people who think comfort is a feature, and are willing to trade a bit of time in the slalom or on the skid pad to not have their spine ruined.

The six-speed manual transmission is a delight, reminding me why it's fun to have a stick shift. Not many folks will use their MX-5 as a commuter car, so there are almost no downsides to the manual tranny. Gear changes are quick and easy, and the clutch is incredibly forgiving. Third gear is particularly wonderful, as is the rev-happy naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G engine that scores an EPA-estimated 26/34/29 city/highway/combined.

2020 Mazda MX-5 RF The interior of the MX-5 is well-designed, but cramped.Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

The exhaust isn't noisy, but it make a nice burble, particularly with the top down. And I do have to call out that top. The RF — or Retractable Fastback — is the MX-5 to buy. Not only is it stupidly good looking, but you get the best of both worlds: When the top is down, you get 93 million miles of blue sky. But when you put it back up, you're in a sports coupe that's almost quiet and refined.

The roof can open and close in just 13 seconds, though you do need to be stopped for it to operate. It looks especially good in Mazda's Polymetal Gray paint scheme.

2020 Mazda MX-5 RF The Mazda MX-5 RF has the same design attributes as the MX-5, just with a hard top.Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

I love convertibles. I love the MX-5. I love the RF. I love 93 million miles of blue sky. And if you go take one for a test drive, I promise you'll love it too.

Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

100th Anniversary Special Edition Mazda MX-5 Miata gets white paint, red top

New Model News

Mazda has revealed the details of its 100th Anniversary Special Edition Mazda MX-5 Miata. The roadster will be available in the U.S. later this year.

Buyers will have their choice of model - the RF (retractable fastback) or soft top. The soft top is an exclusive red color while the RF has a black roof. The Mazda will only be offered with a Snowflake White Pearl Mica exterior paint color. There are red styling features throughout.

At the front, the car is accented by a "100 Years 1920 – 2020" badge. The wheel center caps feature the company's 100th Anniversary Special Logo in red and black.

100th Anniversary Special Edition Mazda MX-5 Miata

Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

This model builds one the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Grand Touring trim level. It comes equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's capable of delivering up to 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. It can be paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

The car also has a limited-slip differential, Bilstein dampers, front shock tower trance, and sport-tuned suspension.

The Miata's cabin is equipped with red leather seats and red carpet. The interior design elements were chosen as a nod to the two-tone R360 Coupe, Mazda's first passenger car. The headrests are embossed with the 100th Anniversary Special Logo, while the red floor mats share the same badge as the front fender.

The car's key fob is embossed with the 100th Anniversary Special Logo and presented in a special edition box.

It comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, heated leather seats, a Bose audio system with headrest speakers, automatic climate control, and 17-inch dark silver aluminum alloy wheels.

Mazda has priced the car to start at $32,670 (soft top, manual transmission). For the soft top/automatic transmission model buyers will pay $33,195. The RF is priced slightly higher starting at $35,435 when equipped with the manual. The automatic model is $35,750.

The MSRP does not include $945 for destination and handling ($990 in Alaska), taxes, title or additional fees.

Photo courtesy of BBR

BBR Motorsports will tune your MX-5 Miata to 224 horsepower as part of new tuner package

Hot Mods

UK-based Mazda tuner BBR Motorsports has announced a new tuning upgrade for all 2005 and younger third-generation (NC) MX-5 Miatas with 2.0-liter engines. The modification is part of the new Super 225 package.

The upgrade builds on BBR's previously available Super 200 conversion. It gives the car an additional 67 bhp and 36 pound-feet of torque. In a car that only weighs 2,400 pounds off the line, that's a significant boost.

"The main challenge for our development program was optimising the intake side of the engine by switching to bespoke independent throttle bodies (ITB's,)" said BBR's Neil McKay, "while retaining the standard Mazda Denso engine management system and under bonnet layout."

2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata The car only weigh around 2,400 pound initially so the horsepower upgrade is substantial.Photo courtesy of BBR

Each modification is completely reversible.

"To maximise performance the OEM Mazda MAF sensor and plenum chamber are dispensed with for the Super 225 conversion, but the original factory drive by wire throttle configuration is retained and integrated into the BBR independent throttle body set up. Here is where BBR's close partnership with EcuTek enabled us to develop an ECU calibration to accommodate this new hardware, which entailed a considerable amount of dyno time and road testing to accumulate mileage and refine the end package," McKay said.

In the end, the MX-5 ends up with 224 bhp and 174 pound-feet of torque. Over 170 pound-feet of that torque is available from 4,000-6,000 rpm, with more than 150 pound-feet available from 3000 rpm all the way up to the 7800 rpm rev limiter.

BBR has ensured that the Super 225 upgrade is fully UK MOT emissions compliant. Following the upgrade, the car can run on either 98 or 95 octane fuel, while an optional BBR air filter is advisable for everyday use.

2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata All modifications are fully UK MOT emissions compliant.Photo courtesy of BBR

BBR Super 225 package includes:

BBR stainless steel 4 into 1 exhaust manifold
BBR high performance intake and exhaust camshafts
BBR 3.5 - inch diameter branded tailpipes with stainless steel clamps
BBR badges for front wings and boot lid
Drive by wire controlled direct to head billet 45mm DCOE throttle body assemblies
Bespoke BBR aluminium ram pipe support/backing plate (carbon-fibre option available)
Bespoke BBR DBW system – complete OEM ECU integration
Bespoke BBR air rail for MAP and servo feed
Alloy inlet ram pipe curved extensions
CNC machined 20mm alloy inlet ram pipes - black and silver anodised for OEM style discrete appearance
Optional BBR foam air filter available

Priced at £3495.00 for a DIY package option, or £4295.00 for a drive-in, drive-out installation at BBR's Brackley HQ, the BBR Super 225 package is on-sale now. Owners of BBR Super 200 converted cars can migrate to this new level of performance for just £2495.00 fitted.

The Super 225's BBR independent drive by wire throttle body package hardware is also available in isolation for any Mazda MX-5 NC engine, priced from just £1795.00 with optional BBR foam air filter at £65.00 excluding VAT.

Ranked: Most dependable cars on the road in 2020

Ranked

Research firm J.D. Power has been producing its annual U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study for more than 30 years — a study that automakers take seriously and consumers recognize and value. The 2020 study examines problems experienced in the last 12 months by original owners of 2017 model-year vehicles, with overall dependability determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles — also known as PP100. A lower score indicates higher dependability.

This year J.D. Power reports that overall dependability improved 1.5 percent compared to 2019 — however, the level of improvement is down compared to last year.

The 2020 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study is based on responses from more than 36,000 original owners of 2017 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership. J.D. Power conducted the study from July through November 2019.

Challenges of Technology

Photo courtesy of Cadillac

"Despite the increased adoption of complex vehicle technology, dependability continues to improve," said Dave Sargent, vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power. "There's no question that three-year-old vehicles today are better built and more dependable than same-age vehicles were in previous years. However, the rapid introduction of technology is putting increased pressure on dependability, so it would not be surprising to see problem levels plateau, or even increase, over the next few years," Sargent cautioned.

In-Vehicle Technology

Photo courtesy of Audi AG

The in-vehicle technology category — which includes audio, communications, entertainment and navigation systems — still accounts for more problems than any other category in the study; however, the 2020 study results also reveal it as the most improved category. "Many owners complain about these systems early in the ownership experience and, three years later, they're still frustrated with them," Sargent said. "We're seeing improvement, but automakers still have a long way to go to before they can declare victory in this area," Sargent also noted.

Highest Ranked Nameplate: Genesis

Photo courtesy of Hyundai Motor America

In its first year of inclusion in the annual J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study, Genesis ranks highest in overall dependability with a score of 89 PP100. Hyundai's high-scoring luxury brand bumped Lexus to second place, after Toyota's luxury brand held the top spot for the past six years. Buick, Porsche and Toyota round out the top five brands.

Most Dependable Vehicle Overall — Lexus ES

Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.

Lexus may no longer be the top brand overall, but the Lexus ES ranks highest of all vehicles in the study. The ES earned a score of a mere 52 PP100, which is the best score ever recorded in the study's 31-year history.

Most Dependable Small Car - Honda Fit

Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc

The Honda Fit excels at space management — the perfect example of a car that's small on the outside yet large on the inside. The unique rear seats can be configured in multiple ways to allow cargo storage of all shapes and sizes. The 2017 Honda Fit is powered by a 1.5-liter engine producing 130 horsepower, and it achieves up to 36 mpg on the highway with its standard 6-speed manual transmission.

Standard equipment includes air-conditioning with air filtration, power windows and door locks, a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity with audio streaming and a number of active safety features.

Most Dependable Small Premium Car - BMW 2-Series

Photo courtesy of BMW

BMW's small entry-luxury model for the U.S. market, the 2 Series joined the lineup as a 2014 model to replace the 1 Series. The 2 Series is a modern example of the type of sporty, agile, fun-to-drive car on which BMW built its reputation in the 1960s. For 2017 the 2 Series received the latest generation of BMW's TwinPower Turbo engine that offers increased horsepower and torque versus the outgoing version, as well as improved fuel economy.

The high-performance M2 joined the lineup a year earlier, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine that produces 365 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque in overboost mode.

Most Dependable Compact Car - Nissan Leaf

Photo courtesy of Nissan North America

The Nissan LEAF is the first fully-electric vehicle to earn a top segment score in the Most Dependable study. By 2017 more than 100,000 LEAFs had been sold in America, making it by far the best-selling electric car of the time. The 30-kWh battery pack became a standard feature for the 2017 model year, extending the driving range to 107 miles — a 27 percent increase over the previous model.

The 2017 LEAF is powered by an 80-kW electric motor producing 107 horsepower and 187 lb-ft of torque. The battery can be quick-charged to 80 percent in about 30 minutes, and a full charge takes 6 hours with a Level 2 240-volt system.

Most Dependable Compact Sporty Car - Mazda MX-5 Miata

Photo courtesy of Mazda North America Operations

The most successful convertible of all time, the fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata went on sale in summer 2015. In 2017 Mazda introduced the MX-5 RF — a retractable fastback with a power-folding hardtop that opens and closes in 13 seconds. The 2017 MX-5 incorporated SKYACTIV technology for improved performance and more efficiency; it also adopted the KODO—Soul of Motion design to bring a modern look to the classic roadster.

The 2017 MX-5 is approximately 150 pounds lighter than its predecessor, making it lightweight, nimble and fun to drive. The 2017 MX-5 sports a 155-horsepower SKYACTIV- G 2.0-liter engine combined with a standard SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual transmission.

Most Dependable Compact Premium Car - Lexus ES

Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.

One of the best-selling luxury cars in America during the 2017 model year, the ES was the entry-level Lexus sedan that came with many of the comfort and convenience features found in more expensive models. Updated with a bold new grille the previous year, the 2017 ES 350 is powered by a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine driving the front wheels.

At the time it may have been the entry-level sedan in the Lexus lineup, but the ES still offers plenty of standard luxury amenities expected in a Lexus. Leather trim was standard, as were a power moonroof, automatic climate control, a high-end audio system with Bluetooth audio streaming and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Most Dependable Midsize Car - Buick Regal

Photo courtesy of Buick

The 2017 Buick Regal represented the end of the fifth generation of this long-lived nameplate, and it was the last Regal sedan offered by Buick (In 2018 it was replaced by the Regal Sportback). The midsize sedan was available in a range of trim levels and could be obtained with front- or all-wheel drive. Buick offered the Regal with a premium interior and a long list of standard features that included heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control and signature ice-blue ambient lighting. For 2017, Buick added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability.

Most Dependable Midsize Sporty Car - Ford Mustang

Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company

The current-generation Mustang debuted a few years ago with a lower, wider stance; a lower roof height; wider rear fenders and a wider track. Available as either a coupe or a convertible, the 2017 Mustang was offered with three different engine choices — a standard V6 and two performance options: a turbocharged EcoBoost four cylinder or a 5.0-liter V8, the latter producing 435 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque in the Mustang GT. For those in need of extreme performance, Ford also offered the Shelby GT350 boasting 526 horsepower.

Most Dependable Midsize Premium Car - Genesis G80

Photo courtesy of Hyundai Motor America

The Genesis G80 was an all-new model for 2017, one of two introductory vehicles of Hyundai's premium brand when it launched that year. Previously sold as the Hyundai Genesis, the 2017 Genesis G80 featured a premium interior with high-grade materials such as genuine aluminum and matte-finish wood. Available with rear or AWD, at that time the G80 could be equipped with either a 3.8-liter V6 or a 5.0-liter V8 engine generating 420 horsepower.

Most Dependable Large Car - Toyota Avalon

Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.

Flagship of the Toyota lineup, Avalon feels like a high-end luxury sedan, especially in the Limited trim. Refreshed one year earlier, the 2017 Avalon offered a quiet, roomy cabin and was available with either a 268-horsepower V6 engine or very efficient hybrid system. For 2017 Toyota upgraded the Avalon with standard Toyota Safety Sense-P for all trim levels. This included dynamic radar cruise control, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist and automatic high beam headlights.

Most Dependable Small SUV - Buick Encore

Photo courtesy of Buick

The 2017 Encore was the smallest vehicle in the Buick lineup, and with a starting price of around $25,000 it was a great entry into the luxury crossover segment. The 2017 Encore came well equipped with such features as a power driver's seat, 7-inch color display with backup camera and built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection. The Encore Sport Touring trim became part of the lineup a year earlier, powered by a 153-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter engine with direct injection and start/stop technology combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Most Dependable Small Premium SUV - Mercedes-Benz GLA

Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

The smallest model of the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, the GLA debuted as a 2015 model aimed directly at the BMW X1. The 2017 GLA250 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, teamed with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard but at the time the GLA could be had with 4Matic all-wheel drive.

For those looking for more performance, Mercedes also offered the AMG GLA45, powered by a hand-built 2.0-liter AMG engine that produces 375 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque with standard AMG 4Matic all-wheel drive.

Most Dependable Compact SUV - Chevrolet Equinox

Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

One of the most popular crossovers in America, in 2017 the Equinox was Chevrolet's smallest SUV with a roomy interior and seating for up to five occupants. Equinox received a number of design and feature updates a year earlier that included a new front fascia, projector-beam headlights and new wheel designs. Offered in a range of trim levels with front or all-wheel drive, the 2017 Equinox could be equipped with a choice of engines, including a 301-horsepower V6. The interior is quite spacious and offers increased flexibility with its MultiFlex sliding rear seat that provides more legroom for rear-seat passengers or, when needed, more cargo space.

Most Dependable Compact Premium SUV - Porsche Macan

Photo courtesy of Porsche AG

The compact-premium SUV market continues to grow, but the Macan certainly stood out from said crowd in 2017. The fifth vehicle in the Porsche lineup at the time, Macan was styled after the larger Cayenne and still embodied all qualities expected from the iconic German sports car brand. Macan was available with full-time all-wheel drive, and could be equipped with various powertrains ranging from a 2.0-liter 252-horsepower 4-cylinder engine to a 440-horsepower V6 in the Macan Turbo with Performance Package.

Most Dependable Midsize Pickup - Nissan Frontier

Photo courtesy of Nissan North America

The Frontier is Nissan's entry in the midsize pickup truck market and it hasn't really changed much in the last 10 years. Available as a King Cab or Crew Cab, the 2017 Frontier could be had with rear- or 4-wheel drive as well as with long or short truck beds. Two engines were available: a 2.5-liter 152-horsepower 4-cylinder unit or a 4.0-liter V6 producing a more respectable 261 horsepower. Frontier could be equipped with a variety of features including a heavy-duty suspension, available off-road-tuned Bilstein high-pressure performance gas shock absorbers, skidplates (PRO-4X grade), and an innovative Utili-track Channel System for easy cargo securing.

Most Dependable Midsize SUV - Toyota 4Runner

Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.

As one of the few remaining truck-based SUVs on the market, the 2017 Toyota 4Runner offered capability that couldn't be found in most car-based crossovers. With a 270-horsepower V6 engine that could tow up to 5,000 pounds, 4Runner boasted a number of high-tech features in addition to its full-time 4WD system, making it one of the most capable SUVs available. For 2017 Toyota added the TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium trims to the 4Runner lineup, offering excellent off-road capability while maintaining a luxurious, comfortable interior.

Most Dependable Midsize Premium SUV - Lexus GX

Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.

By the middle of the first decade of the new millennium, the SUV trend had moved toward luxury crossovers that were more at home on pavement than on dirt, although the 2017 Lexus GX still retained its impressive off-road prowess. Based on the Toyota 4Runner, the GX had full-time 4WD and all the equipment needed to do some serious off-roading.

Utilizing a trucklike body-on-frame construction, the 2017 GX460 is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque with advanced dynamic control systems and a 6,500-pound towing capacity. Despite exceptional off-road capability, the 2017 GX460 features luxurious amenities inside, while the standard Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System delivers a smooth, comfortable ride.

Most Dependable Minivan - Toyota Sienna

Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.

As one of the top-selling minivans on the U.S. market, the 2017 Sienna came well equipped with features that included 3-zone climate control and Toyota's Entune audio system with applications such as Yelp, iHeartRadio, OpenTable and Pandora. Although other minivans have offered all-wheel drive over the years, Sienna was the only AWD minivan on the market that year — perhaps making it even more appealing to those desiring a crossover. For 2017 the Sienna also received a power boost: a new 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 296 horsepower.

Most Dependable Large SUV - Chevrolet Tahoe

Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

There aren't many vehicles on the road that can compete with the Chevrolet Tahoe. With seating for up to nine occupants, plenty of cargo capacity, the capability to tow more than 8,500 pounds, and 9 inches of ground clearance for off-road adventures, the Tahoe is still one of the most capable SUVs on the road. Available with 2WD or 4WD, the 2017 Tahoe could be equipped with a suite of safety features as well as 4G LTE connectivity with a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless phone charging, power-folding second- and third-row seats, an 8-inch color touchscreen and multiple USB ports.

Most Dependable Large Light-Duty Pickup (tie) - Toyota Tundra

Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc.

The full-size truck market is one of the hardest for a non-domestic brand to crack. Although the Tundra had improvements in sales over the years, it still makes up a small percentage of overall truck sales. Just two years after getting a complete redesign, the 2017 Tundra carried through with a variety of cab styles and bed lengths as well as rear- or 4-wheel drive. Two V8 engines were available, with the higher trims getting a 5.7-liter V8 that produced 381 horsepower, allowing the big truck to tow more than 10,000 pounds.

Most Dependable Large Light-Duty Pickup (tie) - Ford F-150

Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company

The 2017 Ford F-150 was the most technologically advanced F-Series to date. New technology included an available 360-degree camera view, available trailer-hitch-assist rear camera view, available remote tailgate with hands-free opening, and an available next-generation tailgate step. That year Ford also brought back the F-150 Raptor — a high-performance off-road truck with a competition-proven chassis, powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine producing 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque.

Most Dependable Large Heavy-Duty Pickup - Chevrolet Silverado HD

Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

When consumers climb into the heavy-duty truck market, their choices narrow considerably. The 2017 Silverado HD combines impressive capability with a comfortable cabin and driving ease. The latter was further improved with Chevrolet's New Digital Steering Assist power steering — designed to make hauling and trailering more manageable via electronic controls that enhance road holding and stability on the highway. The 2017 Silverado HD can tow as much as 23,300 pounds when properly equipped.

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2023 Nissan Leaf pricing announced

Updated EV

Nissan is nearing the release of the Ariya, its first new EV in several years. Even so, the brand hasn't forgotten about its first mass-market EV, the Leaf. It was an early entrant in the space, and has been an efficient, affordable, commuter car for over a decade. The car got a mild facelift for 2023, with updated wheels and exterior styling accents. Today, Nissan announced pricing for the Leaf, which starts at just under $29,000.

2023 Nissan Leaf The Leaf feels lively, despite middling power numbers.Nissan

The base Leaf comes with a 40-kWh battery capable of delivering a 149-mile range. Its 110-kW electric motor produces 147 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The Leaf SV Plus features a 60-kWh battery for a range of 212 miles. It comes with a 160-kW motor that makes 214 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. Nissan backs all Leaf models with an eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.

ProPilot Assist comes standard for the Leaf SV Plus, and brings a full suite of advanced driver aids that include adaptive cruise control, driver alertness features, and a surround-view monitor. All Leaf models get Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warnings, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, automatic high beams, and rear automatic braking.

2023 Nissan Leaf The Leaf SV Plus offers up to 212 miles of range.Nissan

The new Leaf starts at $28,895, which includes a $1,095 destination charge. The Leaf SV Plus starts at $36,895. The 2023 Nissan Leaf is on sale now, and may be eligible for federal tax credits of up to $7,500. Depending on where you live, you may also be able to receive a state tax credit or other incentives.

2022 Nissan Altima: Three things to know

Comfortable midsize sedan

The Nissan Altima may not get the attention or the praise that the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord get, but it's a solid entry in an ultra-competitive segment. It's also one of few options in its class with available all-wheel drive. We spent a week with the 2022 Nissan Altima SR Midnight Edition with AWD and came away from the experience impressed. Here are three things to know about the car.

The 2022 Nissan Altima is a Good Value

With a starting price in the mid-$20,000 range and available all-wheel drive, it's hard to complain about value here. The Altima is still reasonably priced at the top end, where it maxes out at around $35,000 before options and fees. That's a great value for a spacious, comfortable car like the Altima, and with all-wheel drive it's a great all-weather commuter.

2022 Nissan Altima Nissan offers the Altima in several configurations.Nissan

2022 Altima Interior Space and Comfort are Generous

It's easy to ignore Nissan's Zero Gravity seats as another marketing buzzword, but they are legitimately comfortable and supportive in a way that not many others are. Available leather upholstery and contrast stitching give the interior an upscale feel, but even lower trims' cloth upholstery feels nice and works well from a visual standpoint. Up front, there's room for both passengers to stretch out, and the driver won't feel cramped on leg or headroom. Back-seat passengers get a similar treatment, as there's plenty of space for adults and kids. Parents will find an easy time loading and unloading car seats as well.

2023 Nissan Altima The Altima gets an update for 2023 with fresh styling and more tech.Nissan

The 2023 Nissan Altima Gets an Update

Nissan is refreshing the Altima for 2023 with a facelift, new tech, and better safety features. The new car will go on sale in the fall of 2022 and will come in several trims, including one with Nissan's truck VC-Turbo engine. The Altima's most noticeable update will be its front fascia, which is all-new for 2023. Nissan gives the car a fresh grille design that varies depending on the trim, and LED headlights will be standard. Nissan Safety Shield 360 is standard, and the Altima is available with all-wheel drive, ProPilot Assist, and more.

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The 2022 Nissan Altima is a Good Value

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The 2023 Nissan Altima Gets an Update