Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado HD isn't new, and neither is the Multi-Flex Tailgate. However, the combination of the two is fresh for the 2022 model year.

The Multi-Flex Tailgate will be offered as an option on all 2022 Silverado HD models, in addition to the segment-exclusive Power Up/Down Tailgate option on LT, LTZ and High Country.

General Motors, the parent company of Chevrolet, first offered the tailgate as the branded MultiPro Tailgate for GMC pickups. Then it was renamed for the Chevy trucks lineup and finally it makes its way to heavy-duty Chevy models.

2022 Chevrolet Silverado HDThe 2022 Chevrolet Silverado HD will be available with the Multi-Flex Tailgate.Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

The Chevrolet version of the tailgate really isn't much different than the GMC version. The biggest difference is that it wears bow tie badging.

It's functionality includes:

  • Primary gate — opens from the key fob, from inside the truck or via a button on the gate.
  • Primary gate load stop — helps prevent items from sliding out of the box.
  • Easy access — the inner gate folds down, allowing a deeper reach into the box.
  • Full-width step — the inner gate folds into a large step for easy access and holds up to 375 pounds.
  • Inner gate load stop — helps prevent second-tier items from sliding out of the box.
  • Inner gate with work surface — when opened, provides a work surface as well as second-tier loading.

2022 models also will be offered in a new exterior color, Greenstone Metallic, when the truck arrives on dealership lots later this summer. Pricing has yet to be announced.

Photo courtesy of Canoo

Canoo's new pickup truck is a quirky little people and package transporter

New Truck

Rivian has designed their all-electric truck to be big and beefy, with traditional truck-like aesthetics. Tesla went the other direction with the Cybertruck. Canoo's new pickup has looks more like a lorry you might find in Southeast Asia than an American pickup.

Canoo is a company developing purpose-built electric vehicles (EVs) using their own platform and architecture. Their fully-electric pickup debuted this week and the company was quick to point out its unique features.

Each Canoo pickup is moved by a single rear motor or dual front-rear motor combination. With the dual motors, the truck delivers up to 600 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque. It has a 1,800-pound payload capacity and offers 200+ miles of all-electric range.

Canoo pickup truck profileThe truck is shorter than a Ford Ranger but has about the same cargo capacity in the bed.Photo courtesy of Canoo

Canoo pickup truck profile

The truck is about 21 inches shorter than a Ford Ranger. A lot of that can be chalked up to its stubby nose in replacement of the engine bay. Because there's no engine, the Canoo pickup truck is able to make full use of its front via an installed cargo storage area and a fold-down work table that is complete with electrical outlets. The sides of the truck also feature fold-down tables with two expandable depths that allow it to become a work bench.

At 76 inches, it's four inches taller than the Ranger. They are the same width. Canoo has given the model a 64x72-inch bed that has a depth of 21 inches.

Like a. traditional SUV, Canoo's truck bed features a modular space divider that keeps items separate and secure. There are modular wheel chocks in the bed well that can be used to help secure bikes. Tie downs allow for secure storage of work materials like ladders and large equipment.

The truck's bed is six feet long and can be extended to eight feet via a pull out, which means hat a 4x8-foot sheet of plywood can fit inside. The pull-handle bed extension can help with loading and unloading, and serves as a license plate holder. When the bed is extended, a second layer of tailgate doors can be swiveled out and it houses secondary taillights for legal road use.

The pickup features two skid plates to protect from off-road terrain.Photo courtesy of Canoo

A hidden step on the vehicle allows for easy access to the truck bed. A flexible storage area below the step allows for additional cargo space. A third brake light doubles as an overhead light to see inside the cargo bed at night. Perimeter lighting on all sides of the bed wall adds interior visibility.

The flat-bed, electric body design of Canoo's truck allows for exportable power on all sides of the vehicle. Canoo says that utilizing the outlets with tools and devices has as little as a 10 percent impact on vehicle range.

Canoo is showing the truck wearing 18-inch wheels. It has metal skid plates n the front and rear as well as integrated tow hooks and fog lamps. Buyers can spec their model with roof racks or a camper shell.

Canoo pickup truck features: front cargo area and work table

Photo courtesy of Canoo

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The extended cab truck has two seats in the front while the rear compartment can be customized to fit two additional seats or for purpose-built use-case configurability. A tow hitch receiver, and steer-by-wire, and brake-by-wire technology are standard. Full specification options will be available closer to the truck's on sale date.

The production version of the pickup truck will open for preorders in the second quarter of 2021, with deliveries beginning as early as 2023.

Photo courtesy of GMC

Watch: GMC Hummer EV tested in sub-zero temperatures on snow, ice, and hills

Winter Driving

All vehicles go through extreme weather testing. From the desert sands of the Arabian Peninsula and Mojave Desert to the freezing cold of Michigan's Upper Peninsula and Scandinavia's upper reaches, vehicles from concept to near-production.

During that testing, research and development team members are finding out if their power- and drivetrain components are properly functioning as they have designed them to, checking on calibration, and also discovering the hardiness of their work.

When it comes to electric vehicles, there are additional tests that play into it. Does the battery deplete too quickly? Is the battery able to handle the cold weather? Are the electric motors getting enough power?

GMC HUMMER EV | The Next Chapteryoutu.be

It was this, and more, put to the test by General Motors engineers when they got behind the wheel of the 2022 GMC Hummer in the northern reaches of Michigan. While driving in sub-zero temperatures they tested the all-electric truck on various slippery surfaces, including snow, ice, steep and split-mu grades. Key tests include integrating its powerful all-wheel drive torque distribution with the traction control system, as well as calibrating and testing the electronic stability control system.

The video shows the Hummer EV looping a test track, using four-wheel steering to handle ice, and bumping its way over some mild snow piles. There's also a show of the suspension system absorbing the imperfections in the roadway, allowing the cab of the truck to remain stable.

There are some differences with the prototype truck seen testing here and the renderings of the model that were shown off by GMC at the truck's reveal. Specifically, the front end. Eagle-eyed enthusiasts will note that the headlights and the area between them is not as refined as it was in the original images.

At this point, it is unclear as to why the change has been made and whether or not it's permanent. Likely, it's just fascia that has been deleted for testing and will be replaced when the vehicle heads to production.

The 2022 GMC Hummer EV is slated to go into production this autumn. Find out more about the product rollout plan for the model here.

In the video, GMC also teases the coming of the GMC Hummer EV SUV.

Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

J.D. Power releases annual list of most dependable vehicles

Awards Season

Data analytics firm J.D. Power has been producing an annual U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study for more than 30 years — a study that automakers take seriously and consumers recognize and value.

The 2021 study examines problems experienced in the last 12 months by original owners of 2018 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 is at an all-time high, with ratings improving 10 percent compared to 2020's results.

Of the eight categories analyzed by J.D. Power for this study, all improved year over year. However, ACEN, which stands for Audio/ Communication/Entertainment/Navigation, showed only marginal improvement and remains the most problematic category.

"From early in the ownership experience, many owners complain about these systems being problematic," said Dave Sargent, vice president of automotive quality at J.D. Power. The 2021 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study is based on responses from more than 33,000 original owners of 2018 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership.

J.D. Power conducted the study from July through November 2020.

Winner: Most Dependable Vehicle Overall 2021 - Porsche 911

2017 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS

Photo courtesy of Porsche Cars North America

For the second time in the last three years, the Porsche 911 earns the rank of most dependable vehicle overall. Perhaps the most iconic sports car in the world, the 911 reached the end of its seventh generation (991) in 2018. A few years earlier Porsche had gone to all turbocharged powerplants, with the base-level 911 Carrera generating 370 horsepower from its rear-mounted 3.0-liter engine.

In 2018 Porsche added the high-performance 911 GT3, boasting outstanding performance and handling with 500 horsepower and a proper manual gearbox.

Winner: Highest-Ranked Nameplate - Lexus

2021 Lexus LC 500 Inspiration SeriesPhoto courtesy of Lexus

Lexus returns to the top of the annual J.D Power Vehicle Dependability study for the ninth time in the last 10 years. Last year Genesis — Hyundai's new luxury brand — outpaced Lexus, Toyota's longstanding luxury brand. With a low score in this year's study of 81 PP100 , Lexus is closely followed by Porsche, Kia, Toyota, Buick and Cadillac to round out the highest-ranking nameplates.

Winner: Most Dependable Small Premium Car 2021 - BMW 2 Series

2018 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.

Winner: Most Dependable Compact Car 2021 - Volkswagen Beetle

Volkswagen BeetlePhoto courtesy of Volkswagen AG

Volkswagen designed the contemporary VW Beetle as a modern interpretation of the German automaker's most iconic model. The New Beetle joined the lineup for 1998 and a convertible version joined the lineup for the 2003 model year. The Beetle was refreshed in 2017 with a revised exterior with more aggressive front and rear bumpers with chrome accents.

For 2018 Volkswagen swapped engines to a new 2.0-liter turbocharged unit producing 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, and also added a new variant called the Beetle Coast, which features a unique Deep Sea Teal paint scheme, surfboard wood-look dash front and Pepita houndstooth cloth seating surfaces.

Winner: Most Dependable Compact Premium Car 2021 - Lexus ES

2018 Lexus ES

Photo courtesy of Lexus

One of the best-selling luxury cars in America during the 2018 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 in 2016, the 2018 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 lineup, but the ES still offered plenty of standard luxury amenities expected in a Lexus including leather trim, a power moonroof, automatic climate control, a high-end audio system with Bluetooth audio streaming and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Winner: Most Dependable Compact Midsize Car 2021 - Kia Optima

2018 Kia Optima

Photo courtesy of Kia Motors

In 2015 Kia refreshed the popular Optima midsize sedan with styling that tied in with the rest of the automaker's lineup. For 2018 Kia added the new Optima S, powered by a 185-horsepower 2.4-liter engine and features a sport front bumper, a rear spoiler, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lights, LED taillights, a 10-way power driver's seat and optional panoramic roof. The Optima SX 2.0L Turbo adds LED fog lights, a panoramic roof, a 10-way power front passenger seat and heated/ventilated front seats.

Winner: Most Dependable Midsize Sporty Car 2021 - Chevrolet Camaro

2018 Chevrolet Camaro

Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

Chevrolet introduced the sixth generation of the legendary Camaro for the 2016 model year, and while it looks similar to the previous version, the only carryover was the bowtie on the grille. Slightly smaller than the outgoing model, that new Camaro shed more than 200 pounds with the goal of improving performance as well as fuel efficiency.

A year later Chevrolet reprised the vaunted ZL1 powered by an LT4 supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 650 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque.

In 2018 the automaker added the 1LE Performance Package for the ZL1 Coupe with carbon fiber aerodynamic enhancements, Multimatic DSSV dampers, adjustable ride height and camber, and 19-inch aluminum wheels.

Winner: Most Dependable Midsize Premium Car 2021 - Genesis G80

2017 Genesis G80

Photo courtesy of Genesis Motors

Genesis spun off from parent company Hyundai as an entirely new brand for the 2017 model year, aiming to move more clients upscale. Once Genesis became its own brand, the model formerly known as the Hyundai Genesis was renamed the G80, and in its first year on the market it was already one of the top-selling luxury sedans in America. The 2018 G80's 3.8-liter V6 engine produces 311 horsepower, combined with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is optional.

Today's G80 is well equipped with heated power front seats, leather trim, an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, a high-end audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as the latest high-tech safety features.

Winner: Most Dependable Large Car 2021 - Toyota Avalon

2018 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 in 2015, the 2018 Avalon offers a quiet, roomy cabin and was available with either a 268-horsepower V6 engine or very efficient hybrid system. A year earlier 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. One year later Toyota introduced an all-new Avalon based on the Toyota New Global Architecture platform.

Winner: Most Dependable Small SUV 2021 - Kia Sportage

2018 Kia Sportage

Photo courtesy of Kia Motors

The Kia Sportage moved into its fourth generation with a complete redesign for the 2017 model year. The compact crossover featured updated styling, a stiffer structure, new suspension, premium materials and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Larger than its predecessor, the updated Sportage features improved passenger and cargo space.

Available in a range of trim levels, the Sportage is also offered as the SX Turbo, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder unit producing 240 horsepower. Sportage was the first Kia to offer UVO3, which features 14 telematics services, 8 GB of music storage, access to onscreen apps and Wi-Fi tethering capability.

Winner: Most Dependable Small Premium SUV 2021 - Mercedes-Benz GLA

2017 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 German automaker refreshed the compact GLA crossover for 2018 model year with updated exterior styling as well as a new instrument cluster, a standard 8.0-inch high-resolution display and a standard rearview camera.

The GLA is available with a variety of powertrains, including the high-performance GLA45 AMG powered by a handcrafted AMG turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 375 horsepower.

Winner: Most Dependable Compact SUV 2021 - Buick Envision

2017 Buick Envision

Photo courtesy of Buick

The Buick division of General Motors has experienced great sales success in China, and in 2016 Buick introduced a new SUV built in that country. The Envision crossover slots between the small Encore and midsize Enclave crossovers.

The 5-passenger Envision features styling that fits seamlessly in the Buick lineup and employs a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 252 horsepower and uses Buick's first Active Twin Clutch all-wheel-drive system.

Occupants of Envision enjoy 8-way power front seats, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, tri-zone climate control and available OnStar with 4G LTE and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.

Winner: Most Dependable Compact Premium SUV 2021 - Porsche Macan

2015 Porsche Macan

Photo courtesy of Porsche AG

The compact-premium SUV market is plenty crowded, but the Macan certainly stood out from said crowd in 2018. The second crossover in the current Porsche lineup, Macan joined for the 2014 model year with sales increasing every year since its introduction. Styled after the larger Cayenne, Macan still embodies all qualities expected from the iconic German sports car brand.

The 2018 Macan comes with full-time all-wheel drive and is available with various powertrains ranging from a 2.0-liter 252-horsepower 4-cylinder engine to a 440-horsepower V6 in the Macan Turbo with the Performance Package.

Winner: Most Dependable Midsize SUV 2021 - Kia Sorento

2018 Kia Sorento

Photo courtesy of Kia Motors

The 2018 Kia Sorento features exterior styling that fits in with the rest of the Kia lineup. Sorento has a roomy interior and can be equipped with the latest version of Kia's UVO entertainment and communication interface offering services such as Geo Fencing, Speed Alert and Curfew Alert. Available with front- or all-wheel drive, the 2018 Sorento comes in a few trim levels with three engine options, including a powerful 290-horsepower V6.

The Sorento features a long list of advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert, making Sorento one of the safest crossover SUVs on the road.

Winner: Most Dependable Midsize Premium SUV 2021 - Lexus GX

2018 Lexus GX

​Photo courtesy of Lexus

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 2018 Lexus GX still retains its impressive off-road prowess. Based on the Toyota 4Runner, the 2018 GX has full-time 4WD and all the equipment needed to do some serious off-roading.

Utilizing a trucklike body-on-frame construction, the 2018 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 2018 GX460 features luxurious amenities inside, while the standard Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System delivers a smooth, comfortable ride.

Winner: Most Dependable Large SUV 2021 - Chevrolet Tahoe

2018 Chevrolet Tahoe RST

Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

There aren't many vehicles on the road that can compete with the Chevrolet Tahoe or its larger Suburban sibling. With seating for up to nine occupants, plenty of cargo capacity, the capability to tow more than 8,500 pounds, Tahoe is still one of the most capable SUVs on the road.

Available with two- or four-wheel drive, the 2018 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 8.0-inch color touchscreen and multiple USB ports.

In 2018 Chevrolet also offered the Tahoe RST special edition that added a street-performance look with most of the chrome deleted and additional gloss-black trim.

Winner: Most Dependable Minivan 2021 - Toyota Sienna

2019 Toyota SiennaPhoto courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc.

As one of the top-selling minivans on the U.S. market, the Sienna received a slight face-lift for the 2018 model year and, more importantly, added Toyota's Safety Sense P suite of high-tech safety features as standard equipment. Powering the 2018 Sienna is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 296 horsepower and the only minivan in 2018 available with all-wheel drive.

The van also boasts several innovative features, including Driver Easy Speak, which uses the microphone from the voice-command multimedia system to broadcast to the audio system's rear speakers. Sienna is also available with a Blu-ray entertainment system featuring a 16.4-inch display.

Winner: Most Dependable Midsize Pickup 2021 - Nissan Frontier

2017 Nissan Frontier

Photo courtesy of Nissan North America

The Frontier is Nissan's entry in the midsize pickup truck market. Available as a King Cab or Crew Cab, the 2018 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, four-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.

Winner: Most Dependable Large Light-Duty Pickup 2021 - Toyota Tundra

2018 Toyota TundraPhoto 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 three years after getting a complete redesign, the 2018 Tundra carried through with a variety of cab styles and bed lengths as well as rear- or four-wheel drive. Two V8 engines were available at the time, with the higher trims getting a 5.7-liter V8 that produces 381 horsepower, allowing the big truck to tow more than 10,000 pounds.

Winner: Most Dependable Large Heavy-Duty Pickup 2021 - Chevrolet Silverado HD

2018 Silverado 3500 HD White LTZ Custom Sport Crew Cab

Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

When consumers climb into the heavy-duty truck market, their choices narrow considerably. The 2018 Silverado HD combines impressive capability with a comfortable cabin and driving ease. Engineers improved the latter thanks to Chevrolet's new Digital Steering Assist power steering, designed to make hauling and trailering more manageable via electronic controls that enhance roadholding and stability on the highway. The 2018 Silverado HD can tow as much as 23,300 pounds when properly equipped.

Photo courtesy of Lordstown Motors

Lordstown Motors announces 40,000 electric truck pre-orders, releases interior photos

Take a Peek

The Lordstown Endurance isn’t under production yet, but the company is already receiving orders for the all-electric pickup truck - 40,000 of them. The model is targeted at commercial fleet vehicle buyers like city governments and large corporate entities that require the capability of a full-size truck.

Each pre-order is a non-binding agreement to purchase the truck, the same as the reservations received by Ford for the Mustang Mach-E and Tesla for the Cybertruck. The purchases equal $2 billion in revenue for the company, which is based in Lordstown, Ohio.

2021 Lordstown EnduranceThe design of the interior of the Endurance is crisp and modern.Photo courtesy of Lordstown Motors

Lordstrown has kicked up the cadence of its news releases as the company moves closer to production. In June, the company debuted the truck and announced its $52,000 price point.

July marked the release of the first renderings of the interior of the Endurance and the debut of the first commercial starring the truck. Then, in August, Lordstown announced that they had entered into an agreement with DiamondPeak Holdings to become a publicly traded company.

Lordstown Motors is operating out of the former General Motors Lordstown Assembly site. The new company has its plant next to the battery facility that General Motors is developing to assist with the products coming to market in the future, like the Cadillac Lyriq.

2021 Lordstown EnduranceThe large screen combines most vital functions of the car’s command center into one place.Photo courtesy of Lordstown Motors

Now, the company as revealed its first pictures of the interior of the truck. Notably, the Endurance has its large screen spanning the width of the driver and center console, housing most all vital functional controls of the vehicle.

Reservations for the truck continue to be taken via the company’s website.

Photo courtesy of Lordstown Motors

Lordstown Motors, DiamondPeak Holdings agree to form a publicly traded business

Stocks

Lordstown Motors Corp. and DiamondPeak Holdings Corp. have entered into a definitive agreement for a business combination that would result in Lordstown becoming a publicly listed company. A statement released by the companies details that the combo company would be named Lordstown Motors Corp. and is expected to remain listed on the NASDAQ and trade under a new ticker symbol, "RIDE".

The deal is expected to be finalized in the fourth quarter of 2020.

2021 Lordstown EnduranceThe company debuted its Endurance pickup earlier this year. Photo courtesy of Lordstown Motors

As part of the agreement, Lordstown Motors will see an expected cash infusion of around $675 million of gross proceeds go directly to fund the production of the Endurance as well as producing the company's in-wheel electric hub motor.

Additionally, the transaction includes $500 million in fully committed private investment in public equity (PIPE), of which is a $75 million investment by General Motors. Also included in that investment list are funds from institutional investors, including Fidelity Management & Research Company LLC, Wellington Management Company LLP, Federated Hermes Kaufmann Small Cap Fund, and funds and accounts managed by BlackRock.

The pro forma implied equity value of the combined company is approximately $1.6 billion.

The combined company Board of Directors will include Steve Burns, Founder and CEO of Lordstown, and David Hamamoto, Chairman and CEO of DiamondPeak.

News of the merger comes on the heels of Lordstown Motors releasing a new ad for its all-electric Endurance pickup truck. The Endurance's interior was revealed last month.

The company aims to be the first full-size electric pickup truck designed to serve the U.S. commercial fleet market. Initial production expected in the second half of 2021. Numerous orders are already in place. The model's price tag is slated to start just over $52,000.

Lordstown Motors has its production facility at the former General Motors Lordstown Assembly plant in Ohio.

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Automotive Map is moving to Your Test Driver

New website

Big news! Automotive Map has moved to a new site and has changed its name to Your Test Driver. You'll notice the same format, writing style, and content on the new site. That's because Your Test Driver is run by Chris Teague, the former editor of Automotive Map. We hope to see you there for continued coverage of news, reviews, and features from around the automotive industry.

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 LeafThe 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 LeafThe 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 AltimaNissan 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 AltimaThe 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.