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Italian Moto Soul: Here are Six of the Best Ducati Motorcycles

The Ducati Diavel is one of the best Ducati motorcycles available.

Jason Unrau
June 28, 2018

Pages: 1 2

We're not going to lie: today’s Ducati motorcycles are some of the best they’ve ever produced. It’s not easy to find a bike builder with such a rounded portfolio. Whether you want a cruiser, a dual-sport bike, a supermoto, or a superbike, Ducati has it.

We’re not going to include some of the ‘classics’ either. The Ducati 996 has run its corsa (see what I did there?), and the 1000LE is past its prime. Instead, we’re going to focus on the new bikes in their stable for 2018.

If you’re a fan of the classic Harley Davidson or a custom chopper, this isn’t going to be your thing. But for those who love speed, riding exhilaration, and a bike you’ll never give up in a million years, keep reading about these top six Ducati motorcycles.

Ducati Diavel

The Ducati Diavel you see today was unveiled as a 2015 model. It’s the second time Ducati has broken into the cruiser bike market. They’ve done it so well, it should probably stick around this time.

As a cruiser, the seating position is a little higher, and the rake is very ergonomic. It’s a bike you could ride comfortably for hours on end. There are three versions: the standard Diavel, the Diavel Carbon (ahem, carbon fiber), and the Diavel Diesel. And no, it doesn’t run on diesel—it’s a special edition with the clothing brand, Diesel.

The Ducati Diavel has the same engine as the Ducati 1198 superbike, but detuned to 152 horsepower. Still, that’s enough to make the Diavel fly, with a top speed claimed to be 162 miles per hour.

The Monster Family

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Known as Il Mostro in Italian, the Ducati Monster is actually a group of bikes that share a similar design. Each of them has an exposed frame that classifies it as a naked bike, and it’s been rumored that its popularity saved Ducati financially.

There are currently five versions of the Ducati Monster: the Monster 797 +, Monster 821, and the Monster 1200, 1200S, and 1200R. Of course, there are varying degrees of performance that go along with the displacement differences, and the 797 + has a respectable 73hp to start. That’s jacked up to 147hp in the 1200 and 1200S, and 152hp in the 1200R.

This is the standard in basic performance bikes. It's a stripped down (naked) bike that’s all about the rider’s relationship with the road.

Ducati Panigale V4

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There are other versions of the Panigale, but the V4 commands its own respect. It’s the first mass-production Ducati built with a V4 engine similar to the one used in MotoGP competition, and it’s new for 2018. That’s just a small indication of its race-ready performance and purpose.

The Panigale V4 has the muscular, Italian style you’ve come to expect, and it’s all based on aerodynamics. It’s equipped with Ducati Power Launch and Quick Shift, so you know it’s seriously fast. How fast, you ask? 191 miles per hour is a true tested speed that it can achieve.

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Points: 34.1667 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%9 of the Best Sport Touring Motorcycles on the Road
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Points: 33.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Four of the Best New Motorcycles for 2020
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Points: 33.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Motorcycle Accessories: 5 You Need and 5 You Didn’t Know You Had to Have
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Points: 33.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Electric Motorcycles: What Hath Tesla Wrought?
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10 of the Best SUVs and Crossovers for Heading Off-Road

Evan Williams
June 14, 2018

The sport in Sport Utility doesn't mean track days and corner carving. It means taking the road less traveled, to activities like hiking, fishing, cycling, or whatever is down that dusty trail. But some SUVs are better than others at heading off-road. We put together a list of the best off road SUV options for when you want to leave the pavement and head for the sand, dirt, mud, or rocks.

The Top 10 Best Off Road SUV's

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk uses an air suspension that gives it up to 10.8-inches of ground clearance for climbing over logs and dips. It can be optioned with a 3.6L V6, 3.0L diesel, or a 5.7L Hemi V8. 18-inch wheels wear off-road ready Goodyear All-Terrain Adventure tires with Kevlar reinforcement to protect it from rock punctures, and keep the Jeep from leaving you flat on the trail. There are skid plates underneath to protect the front suspension, the transfer case, fuel tank, and more of the underbody in case you misjudge an obstacle or two. Plus, it has tow hooks in case everything goes wrong.

The Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system has an electronic limited slip differential and five modes to help put the power to the ground. The hill descent and hill ascent drive modes let the Grand Cherokee do the throttle work, and roll you smoothly up and down steep grades. As a result, it easily found its place on our best off road SUV list.

Toyota 4Runner TRD PRO

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Toyota's TRD (that's Toyota Racing Development) offers off-road ready versions of the 4Runner SUV. The 4Runner has always been an accomplished off-roader, and the TRD Pro model steps that up. The 4.0L V6 offers 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque.

The TRD Pro gets some big suspension upgrades, such as TRD springs with a one-inch lift up front, and Bilstein remote-reservoir shocks in the front and rear. The remote-reservoir helps keep the shocks working properly when they're taking a beating on rough terrain. The four-wheel drive system has a locking differential and low-range gearing. It also has Crawl Control off-road cruise control. It lets you drive downhill slowly, without losing traction, and then will power you back up the other side. Underneath, there is a beefy quarter-inch thick aluminum skid plate to protect the underside. To finish it off the 4Runner TRD PRO has 17-inch alloys with Nitto Terra Grappler all-terrain tires.

If you don't need quite that much capability (or don't want the price tag that goes with it) Toyota offers a TRD Off Road version of the 4Runner as well. That one doesn't have the suspension upgrades, but it does offer Crawl Control, the same four-wheel drive system, and it offers Toyota's Kinetic Dynamic suspension system. That system uses beefier sway bars that are connected to a hydraulic system. If they detect pressure at low speeds, like when you're trying to straddle a boulder, the sway bars disconnect, which lets the wheels move up and down more to keep the tires on the ground. At speed, the thicker bars reduce roll and improve handling.

Land Rover Discovery

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The latest version of Land Rover's Discovery adds some style and more luxury to the long-time expedition favourite. But more luxury, like seating for seven that you can fold down using an app in your phone, and nine USB ports, doesn't mean that off-road has gone away. We'd argue that the USB ports and six 12V charge ports are actually a boon to modern camping. So are 35.4-inches of wading depth. It also has a special information screen that lets you see just how far up the SUV the water has risen. An available air suspension drops 1.6-inches to let you climb in and out, but rises to give 11.1-inches of ground clearance. That means a massive 19.6-inches of wheel travel, keeping the rubber on the road.

All-Terrain Progress Control is like off-road cruise control. Other vehicles offer hill descent control, but this one will take you uphill too. The low-range transfer case locks the center differential and uses lower gear ratios that help you crawl over obstacles. Terrain Response 2 monitors driving conditions and helps keep traction in grass, gravel, snow, rocks, and mud ruts. It can send 100 percent of power to either the front or rear axle. The gas V6 is supercharged and makes 340 hp. The turbodiesel V6 makes 443 lb-ft of torque and sips fuel on the trail. It's no wonder this model found a spot on our best off road SUV list.

Mercedes-Benz G Class

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The Mercedes-Benz G Class has been climbing mountains since it was designed as a military vehicle way back in 1979. Since then it has gotten lots of luxury added, but didn't lose its off-road ability. An all-new model bowed this year for the first time, and keeps the tradition going.

It has 10.6-inches of ground clearance, and 27.6-inches of water fording. It's also stable on a 35-degree side slope, and has the ability to climb up to a 100 percent slope. That's 45 degrees, steeper than you could walk up. Three locking differentials make sure that no wheels are left spinning on their own, and that as much power makes it to the ground as possible. Want to get to the trail as quickly as possible? The G 63 offers a twin-turbo 4.0L V8 that makes 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. That'll get you there in a hurry. Even if it couldn't actually take you off-road, it looks like it can go anywhere. And for some people, that's all they really wanted anyway.

Chevrolet Tahoe

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The Chevrolet Tahoe offers the same Z71 off-road kit as the Silverado pickup, and it can give the big Tahoe some big off-road chops. The Z71 takes the 355 hp 5.3L V8-powered Tahoe and adds 18-inch wheels with off-road tires, a high capacity air cleaner, a low-range transfer case to the all-wheel drive system, and hill descent control. The Z71 comes with stiffer suspension tuning to help it keep the wheels on the dirt and perform better off road. Hill descent control works to take you slowly and smoothly down steep slopes. It also offers a 4G LTE hotspot that lets you go online from the woods. The Z71 pack comes with recovery hooks in case you get really stuck, or so you can help out someone else who is. It also has rubber mats to protect the carpets should you get too dirty when you're in the outdoors.

If you want to take the whole family off-road, and maybe bring the neighbours too, the Tahoe's big brother Suburban gives seating for up to nine people and still has cargo space behind the third row to let you bring along all of your gear.

Lexus LX 570

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The Lexus LX has long been an impressively capable SUV, and one that you might not think of because it wears the Lexus badge. But underneath the Lexus luxury are Toyota Land Cruiser bones. It boasts 8.9-inches of ground clearance with an active height suspension that drops 3.0-inches to allow for easy exit and entry. Crawl control works like off-road cruise control to let the computers do the work of getting you over rough terrain. It even has a turn assist system that will brake the inside rear wheel to let you turn more sharply than the vehicle could otherwise.

The LX 570 uses a Torsen limited-slip center differential that sends power to the axle that needs it. You can lock that diff off-road when things get really slippery to make sure power is going to both axles. The selectable traction control system has five different terrain modes to optimise the truck's response for any terrain. The LX will take you almost anywhere in ventilated seat comfort. Want more cargo and aren't bringing many people with you? Lexus just released a new two-row version that trades the extra seats in the back for more cargo space.

Subaru Forester

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Most of these are big and expensive SUVs, but crossover buyers don't need to be left out of the off-road party. They just need to look a little harder. There are still some crossovers that work well off-road, like the Subaru Forester. The Forester has two all-wheel drive systems. One is for manual-transmission vehicles that have a viscous-coupling locking center differential that sends power to the wheels with more grip. The CVT version has an electronically controlled diff that manages torque based on traction, and what you're trying to do.

The CVT Forester has a driver-selectable X-Mode for the drivetrain that changes the engine and transmission controls for off-road use. It also changes how the differential engages to optimize traction and allow for the mild wheelspin that can keep you moving in slick terrain. The Forester offers 8.7-inches of ground clearance, much more than your average crossover. And Subaru's suspension tuning and the Forester's light weight make for a soft and comfortable ride when you're throwing it down some gravel. It's definitely earned its spot on the best off road SUV list.

Jeep Renegade

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Then there's the smallest crossover on the list, the Jeep Renegade. The smallest Jeep might not seem like an off-road capable machine, but Jeep is still Jeep. Two 4x4 systems are available, with the Active Drive Low system able to lock the front and rear differentials for better traction. The Trailhawk version gets that system along with hill descent control. It has skid plates for the gas tank, transfer case, transmission, and front suspension.

The Renegade Trailhawk gets Jeep's Trail Rated badge. That means that it's been tested and Jeep says it meets Jeep's off-road qualifications for ground clearance, suspension articulation, water fording, and traction. The Renegade is small, but it can go most places its bigger siblings can. And probably further than the average buyer would ever want to push it.

Toyota RAV4 Adventure

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The Toyota RAV4 might not seem like it belongs on this list, but the new Adventure trim might change your mind. The RAV4 Adventure (or Trail in Canada) takes the SE's sport appearance and the XLE's features but adds off-road capability. It gets an extra half-inch of ground clearance, which can make a real difference off-road. It has big 18-inch wheels and tires to help it keep traction on rough terrain. And if you want to tow a camper to the trail, the RAV4 can do it. It can tow up to 3,500 lbs thanks to a bigger radiator, and coolers for the oil and transmission fluid.

The RAV4 Adventure has bigger plastic fender flares and lower body trim. That does more than just make it look rugged. The high-impact plastic protects the body. Sticks and rocks kicked up by the wheels might scratch the plastic, but that's much better than tearing into your fresh paintwork. It also has rubber floor mats to keep the mud off of your carpets.

Jeep Wrangler

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Finally, the choice that's been near the top of the list for more than 50 years: the Jeep Wrangler. It might have been the first SUV, and over the years it has added more comfort to go with the capability it offers.

The latest version is quieter, more fuel efficient, and should be better to drive than any of its predecessors, but it still has removable doors and a windshield that folds down. Plus a soft roof that's removable, so you can get even closer to the outdoors.

It also has Jeep's latest Command-Trac and Rock Track 4x4 systems that have low-range gearboxes. Rubicon, the most off-road-ready gets electronic sway bar disconnects to let the wheels move off-road and a locking differential in the rear. It can ford 30-inches of water and comes with winch-ready bumpers.

So if you're looking to take it to the trails this summer, from the dirt road to the cottage, to boulder hopping in the mountains, and to running flat-out through the desert, these are some of the best off road SUV options to help get you there, and then get you back, along with your friends and your gear. Happy off-roading, and remember to tread lightly.

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Off-Road: 8
Jeep: 8
Grand Cherokee: 15
Wrangler: 15
Subaru: 8
4Runner: 15
Lexus: 8
Discovery: 15
Tahoe: 15
Renegade: 15
G Class: 15
Rav4: 15
Truck/SUV: 9
LX: 15
Forester: 15
All-Wheel Drive: 2
Four Wheel Drive: 2
AWD: 2
4WD: 2

Points: 36.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%Should You Take the Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Off Road?
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name: 4WD type: System
name: Four Wheel Drive type: System
name: Grand Cherokee type: Model
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name: Off-Road type: Driving

Points: 36.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%AWD vs 4×4: What Makes Sense for You?
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name: Off-Road type: Driving
name: Wrangler type: Model

Points: 34.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%Test Driving the Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited
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name: Off-Road type: Driving
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Points: 26.0000 Recency: -6.0 -1.0%Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Is a Hellcat SUV
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name: Grand Cherokee type: Model
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New Driver In The House? We’ve Got 5 of the Safest Cars for Teens

Chris Smith
June 12, 2018

Pages: 1 2 3

So your kid is a Junior in high school, gets decent grades, and has just been hired on at “America’s best first job” to flip burgers and super-size fries. Now they need a ride to get from home to the Golden Arches and back. Does the idea of your teenage son or daughter having their own car scare the hell out of you? Are you worried about tracking down options for some of the safest cars for teens?

Don't worry, because you’re not alone, and your fears are well founded. Teenage drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal auto accident than all other drivers. According to the Centers for Disease and Control & Prevention, 963,000 teens are involved in motor vehicle accidents each year. 383,000 of those accidents result in injuries, and another 2,865 involve fatalities. These numbers can be scary for parents of new drivers, which is why we're looking at some of the safest cars for teens.

Teenagers Lack Driving Experience

Why are teenagers so susceptible to car accidents? It can be summed up as inexperience with driving, and more importantly, juvenile judgement. Are you interested in knowing the top five reasons teenagers and young drivers are involved in car accidents? Good news: the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has compiled this simple list:

Driver Inexperience. This is a no-brainer. It takes a lot of on-the-job training to become competent while driving at night, in the rain, on interstates, in congested parking lots, and yes, even in fast food drive-thru lanes. With time and practice, your teenager will become more confident while driving, and improve.
Distracted Driving. All age groups are susceptible to this, but teenagers seem to have their phones surgically implanted in their hands. Cell phone use accounts for 12% of all teen accidents. Studies show that the reaction times of teenagers are about equal to that of drivers aged 70 and older when using their phone. Always remind your teenagers to keep their eyes on the road.
Intoxicated Driving. Everyone knows not to mix alcohol and driving, but liquor has an exaggerated effect on teens. Their lack of driving experience and their willingness to participate in dangerous behavior, including being a passenger in an intoxicated person’s vehicle, amplify the risk.
Reckless Driving. The National Young Driver Survey (NYDS) found that 21% of car accidents involving teenagers happen due to the teenage driver traveling too fast for road conditions. More than half of teenage fatal motor vehicle accidents are a result of speeding.
Teenage Passengers. This will be a source of many family arguments. Teenagers are three times more likely to be involved in an accident when there are two or more teenage passengers. Typical accidents include running off the road, rear ending the car in front, and being struck while attempting a left turn.

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Safety: 15
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Mazda: 10
Honda: 10
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Mazda 3: 10
Commuter: 5
Volvo: 10
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Driving: 15
Forester: 10
Crash Test: 15
IIHS: 15

Points: 22.0000 Recency: -3.0 -1.0%Mazda3 Tops KBB Coolest New Cars List Yet Again
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Points: 22.0000 Recency: -3.0 -1.0%Affordable Luxury: 2019 Mazda 3 GS Review
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Points: 19.5000 Recency: -3.0 -1.0%Safest Cars of 2018: The List Has Shrunk to Just These 16 Models
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6 of the Best Two-Seater Sports Cars Currently Available

The Fiat 124 Spider made our list of best sports cars.

Steven Symes
June 7, 2018

Pages: 1 2 3

With the popularity of SUVs and crossovers taking over the automotive industry, it’s become more difficult than ever to find sports cars. As a result of this trend, people have become a little loose with the term “sports car.” Just to clarify, a Subaru WRX isn’t one, and neither is a Porsche 911. In order to clear up the dust, we put together this list of our top six best sports cars.

The only vehicles considered for this list feature two seats. They can carve up the road or track, and were built primarily for performance, with comfort and convenience as secondary designs. Climb behind the wheel of any of these modern sports cars and you’ll quickly realize what you’ve been missing.

The Best Two Seat Sports Cars:

Fiat 124 Spider

The old saying is that the answer is always Miata. Well, in this case it isn’t. You may or may not be aware that this little Italian roadster isn’t actually Italian, but is actually Japanese. More specifically, it’s a rebadged Mazda Miata. Surprised? You should be. The 124 Spider looks better and has a nicer interior, without losing the sporting spirit of the Miata, which is why it made our list of one of the best sports cars.

Speaking of sporting, Mazda engineers obsessed over its handling dynamics. The car has a nearly-perfect 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution. The suspension is stiff without being punishing. The Fiat 124 Spider Abarth has a Bilstein Performance Suspension, and a front tower brace and rear stabilizer bar to stiffen everything up further, if you really want to flog your ride.

Fiat didn’t stick with the Mazda Skyactiv-G engine, but instead put in one from the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles lineup. The 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo is more powerful, pumping out 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. All that goes to the rear wheels, making for a proper sports car experience. If you opt for the Abarth version of the car, the engine mates up to a six-speed manual transmission for even more fun. If not, the six-speed automatic is okay, for an automatic.

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Italians know how to make a nice vehicle interior, and you can get plenty of nice touches in the 124 Spider. Some of the smallest details ooze quality, like the stitching on the parking brake lever. Abarth models come with heated leather and microfiber sports seats, plus red accent stitching for good measure. The Abarth also adds appropriate aluminum accents to the pedals. If you’re an audiophile, you’ll appreciate the Bose sound system. It features nine speakers crammed in a small space, including two in each headrest, so you can still listen to tunes with the top down on the freeway.

Chevrolet Corvette ZO6

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Chevrolet’s only sports car line is the Corvette, because the Camaro has a backseat. Some refer to this as “America’s Sports Car” and for the most part the ‘Vette has lived up to that reputation. While the new ZR1 is impressive, it’s a little pricey with a starting MSRP of $121,000. You can pick up a regular Stingray for $55,495, but the ZO6 offers so much more for $89,495 that has arguably the best value in the lineup. Admittedly, the Grand Sport is a close second, so if you can’t swing the ZO6’s price, go for that.

In case you didn’t see all the fanfare when the C7 ZO6 launched, it was developed alongside the C7.R race car, a fact that shows throughout its design. One of the big highlights is the supercharged 6.2-liter V-8. It squeezes out a mighty 650 horsepower and 650 lb.0ft. of torque. It's acceleration goes from 0 to 60 is under three seconds. Like any proper racer, the car also has a dry-sump oil system, because you’re going to be whipping around turns in a fury.

With so much power comes great aero, at least with the Corvette ZO6. There are three aero packages, the first including the carbon fiber hood and vent, front splitter, and a rear spoiler. Upgrade to the Carbon Fiber Aero Package and the various aero parts are made of, you guessed it, carbon fiber. The front splitter gains end plates, while the rear spoiler is bigger and has a fixed wickerbill for more downforce. If you really want to get crazy, the ZO7 Performance Package slaps bigger end plates on the front splitter, plus it adds an adjustable and transparent wickerbill to the rear spoiler.

Even more performance chops come with the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP tires, or the upgraded Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. You can also add Brembo carbon ceramic brake rotors for greater control. Magnetic Selective Ride Control is available for damping response every millisecond, which works quite well.

You can get the ZO6 as a convertible, if you like the topless experience. It doesn’t compromise aerodynamics, plus the top if fully electronic.

If you still think of Chevrolet interiors as cut-rate, you really need to take a look at the ZO6’s cabin. It’s nice but not over-the-top, with clean designs and quality materials throughout. The instrumentation isn’t overly complex, so you can concentrate on keeping control of this beast. You and your passenger will love the seats, making this one of the best sports cars you could take on a road trip.

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Corvette: 5
Porsche: 10
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Fiat: 10
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370Z: 5
Dodge: 10
124 Spider: 5
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Alfa Romeo: 10
Performance: 6
SRT: 5
Cayman: 5

Points: 16.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Test Drive: 2018 Dodge Durango SRT
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14 of the Most Reliable Cars to Buy in 2018

Steven Symes
May 15, 2018

It wasn’t that long ago that having to replace a car’s engine was considered to be pretty routine. Most reliable vehicles still needed some love and attention in the form of maintenance and repairs. These days, plenty of cars will make it past 200,000 or even 300,000 miles on the original engine if they’re cared for properly.

If you're looking for a reliable car today, there’s an excellent range of vehicles to choose from. In other words, you don’t have to necessarily drive something boring, super expensive, or similar to what your dad likes. We've put together a list of some of the most reliable cars you can buy in 2018.

Most Reliable Cars in 2018

Toyota Prius

Yes, this is the car many people curse for going too slow on the road, but people who buy these are interested in saving on gas, not going fast. That somewhat complex hybrid powertrain is surprisingly reliable, despite all the hand-wringing about it when the Prius first exploded in popularity.

The current generation of the Prius not only has a more premium feel, but the chassis is also significantly stiffer. That means a more engaging driving experience, if you care about that sort of thing. Then there’s the 54-mpg combined rating, meaning you can visit the gas station only occasionally.

Hyundai Tucson

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There’s a ton of subcompact SUVs on the market these days, but one of the best for reliability is the Hyundai Tucson. The Tucson was voted as one of the IIHS Top Safety Picks for 2018, making this SUV great for transporting your loved ones safely.

Yes, you can squeeze five people in this vehicle, but four is a much more realistic number. Still, if you stay on top of servicing, this crossover could be your reliable commuter.

You’re not going to burn a bunch of rubber with the Tucson, but it can come in handy when you want something reasonably utilitarian, which also isn’t a pain to fit in tight parking spots. In addition to fitting in some unique tight spots, you won't catch yourself being stranded thanks to the SUV's clever structure and advanced technologies.

Dodge Challenger

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Just because you want something reliable doesn’t mean you have to go with a boring car. The Dodge Challenger ranks high in reliability studies, a fact that surprises many. While the Challenger certainly can shred plenty of rubber, it also has a unique and show-stopping look that helps you stand out from the droves of boring sedans and crossovers.

Make no mistake, you also get plenty of comforts and technologies, making the Challenger great for long trips. It truly is a modern, and reliable, muscle car.

Buick LaCrosse

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How does getting 35 mpg on the freeway with a premium sedan sound? The Buick LaCrosse delivers just that, plus you won’t be dealing with as many issues as you might with other options.

As a semi-luxury option, the LaCrosse can be had with a nice mix of features, all at reasonable prices. For example, the panoramic moonroof tilts and slides, allowing light and fresh air to flow into the cabin. A power rear sunshade helps to cool things off in the summer, while active noise cancellation creates a serene environment.

Toyota Tacoma

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It wouldn’t be a vehicle reliability list without the Taco, a truck that’s won over the hearts of many in North America. Finding one used at a reasonable price can be next to impossible, thanks to the reputation it’s earned for being ultra-reliable.

The current generation has some smart features. For example, all models provide a GoPro mount on the windshield, so recording your adventures is easier. Also, if you opt for a TRD model, they gain goodies like special skid plates and Rigid LED fog lights.

Audi Q3

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Most Audis haven’t earned a reputation for reliability, but the Q3 is a standout in numerous reliability studies. Both trims come with a nice array of standard equipment, so you’re not only getting something that runs well, but that also is feature-rich.

Among the highlights is a parking system plus, which bundles together a rearview camera and acoustic sensors for the front as well as the rear. Premium Plus models dress up the interior with Aluminum Satellite inlays, while full LED headlights illuminate your pathway better.

Chevrolet Malibu

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The midsize sedan segment is packed full of harsh competition, so the fact that the Chevrolet Malibu has risen toward the top for reliability is that much more impressive. The current offering includes your choice of either a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a turbo 2.0-liter. Both run efficiently, with the larger engine delivering solid performance. A Hybrid model with a 1.8-liter engine is also available for anyone who wants to be a gas miser.

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If you haven’t seen the inside of a Malibu in a while, prepare to be surprised. The cabin has a fit and finish that borders on luxury. Parents will appreciate the Teen Driver system, which encourages responsible driving habits.

Mercedes-Benz GLC

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For a more luxurious and utilitarian vehicle that still will go the distance for reliability, the Mercedes-Benz GLC is a great choice. It replaces the GLK, which also ranked well on multiple studies. While the relatively high cost of maintenance might scare more budget-friendly shoppers away, when compared to other premium European SUVs, this one offers fewer problems.

You can get the GLC in a few varieties, including the 350e hybrid, if you’re also looking to cut down on fuel consumption. Among the impressive equipment is Attention Assist, which monitors 70 different items related to your driving to watch for signs of your being distracted or too tired. A powered rear liftgate and power-folding mirrors are among the many convenience items. All these features are supposed to function well for the long-term, so you’re not visiting the dealer for issues constantly.

Lexus ES

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Some people may call it “vanilla,” but the Lexus ES is undeniably well-built and reliable. Not everyone is a fan of the large spindle grille or sharp-angled headlights. If you can get past the looks, what you get is a smooth-riding, efficient, and roomy car. In fact, the backseat features so much space that three adults can fit without being scrunched.

The ES was one of the first luxury vehicles to get a hybrid powertrain, which is still very much part of the lineup. Also in the mix is a Mark Levinson sound system with 15 speakers, the Lexus Safety System suite of technologies, and selectable drive modes.

Chevrolet Traverse

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If you want to take a lot of people somewhere but hate the feeling of a harsh-riding and cumbersome SUV, the Chevrolet Traverse is a breath of fresh air. Not only does this crossover rank high on reliability studies, but it will also remind you of a driving a car.

Unlike some newer crossovers, there are no ridiculously tiny seats, and the third row has excellent legroom. If that sounds too good to be true, the cargo area behind the rear seats is pretty decent.

If you go with the fully-loaded models, the interior can be downright luxurious. But, the more budget-friendly models are still nice enough to be quite enjoyable from day to day. Among the long list of available equipment, the Traverse includes a hands-free power liftgate, 4G LTE mobile WiFi, and a smart Rear Seat Reminder feature that guards against parents forgetting their child in the vehicle.

Lexus GS

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Yes, another Lexus. The GS is a sedan you might gloss over, but really it’s worth taking a closer look at it and even testing one out. While it has the smoothness of the ES, its styling is arguably more refined and it packs the punch to back the aesthetic aggression up.

Rear-wheel drive makes the vehicle a blast, especially when combined with the 3.5-liter V-6 that’s tuned to produce 311 horsepower. This large sedan can dash from 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. You can control shift points on the 8-speed automatic transmission via paddles mounted to the steering wheel.

If that’s not enough, the F-Sports model has Adaptive Variable Suspension and a Torsen limited-slip differential for amazing handling, even at the car’s limits.

Naturally, this car is about more than just fun behind the wheel. The exterior looks edgy, but the interior serves up loads of soft luxury through well-contoured seats, a power rear sunshade, auto-dimming mirrors, front seat heaters/ventilation, and more. The optional navigation system uses a 12.3-inch screen to show maps and 3D views of cities in surprising detail.

If you need additional help finding a particular place, Lexus Enform Destination Assist puts you in touch with a live agent at any time of day, every day of the year.

Ford Expedition

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It just got a complete makeover, but the previous generation of the Ford Expedition earned a reputation as a vehicle you can rely on day after day. Like the Suburban, the interior is exceptionally spacious in every way, so transporting a crew of tall and large adults isn’t a problem.

The MAX models also feature a rather large cargo area, so you could take everyone on a big Costco run or extensive road trip without slapping a roof pod on the SUV.

There’s plenty to love about the Expedition, besides its reliable nature and size.

For example, if you go for a Platinum model, it adds luxuries like power-folding third-row seats, heated and ventilated front seats, power-deployable running boards, a panoramic moonroof, enhanced active noise control, voice commands, satellite radio, blind spot monitoring/rear cross-traffic alerts, and more.

An additional Ford feature includes Sync Connect. Getting Sync Connect allows the possibility of 4G LTE connectivity through an onboard mobile WiFi hotspot, which accommodates up to 10 devices at once. Another option to keep passengers happy on the go is the rear entertainment system, which can play live cable television or even content streaming from a mobile device.

Kia Rio

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If you still associate the Kia brand with seas of cheap, hard plastic and large body panel gaps, it’s time you give it a second look. Kia has gone through a transformation of late, and while not a premium line, it delivers a level of quality that rivals many older competitors.

The Rio subcompact car has a solid reputation for reliability, so if you need a commuter or kid vehicle that will go the extra mile without breaking down, it’s a great option to consider.

While not flashy, the Rio is an overall decent-looking car inside and out. You can get some nice upgrades, like a 7-inch UVO infotainment touchscreen, autonomous emergency braking, Apple CarPlay, 3 USB charging ports, leather upholstery, a 60/40 split-folding back seat, to name a few.

Under the hood is the trusty 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that supplies 130 horsepower and 119 lb.-ft. of torque. You can pair it up with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, which is a nice choice to have.

Lexus RX

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If your neck of the woods is like many, the sheer number of Lexus RX SUVs on the road is almost daunting. Apparently, that’s partly because you can’t kill the things, so it’s an attractive option for hassle-free vehicle ownership. On top of that, the RX has a build quality that’s tough to beat, from the tight body panel seams to the well-composed interior.

Take one for a cruise on the highway, and you’ll notice the cabin insulation keeps the vehicle quiet, even at high speeds, for a serene environment.

You have choices with the Lexus RX, thanks to the availability of a hybrid model, which has been around for quite some time. Even though Toyota is well-known for extensive testing, the fact that these technologies have been vetted through years of customer use only means your experience should be trouble-free.

If you want some thrills, the F-Sports model features special suspension tuning and a special Sport S+ mode that prove to be more engaging. Added to that is a whole range of impressive luxuries and technologies.

A touch-free power rear liftgate means you can place an elbow or hand near the vehicle badge and the hatch opens automatically. Multi-zone climate control means the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers can all choose a setting they desire. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen extends out of the top of the dash, so you can manage the sound system, get directions, and even answer phone calls without looking down.

Current Post Tags
Ford: 10
Chevrolet: 10
Mercedes-Benz: 10
Hyundai: 10
Dodge: 10
Toyota: 10
Kia: 10
Buick: 10
Lexus: 10
Audi: 10
Commuter: 5
Ownership: 10

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Safest Cars of 2018: The List Has Shrunk to Just These 16 Models

Jason Unrau
May 8, 2018

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6

I don’t think anyone second guesses their safety when they’re behind the wheel. Perhaps there are a couple exceptions for cars such as the Fiat 500 and the notoriously dinky Smart Fortwo – who’d feel safe in a collision with one of those cars? But after the 2018 IIHS Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick Plus rankings, you might question how secure you actually are.

For 2018, only 16 models made the IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus list. As a comparison, 69 models made the list in 2017. The severe decrease is due to more stringent criteria that now includes a "good" or "acceptable" rating for a passenger-side small overlap front crash-worthiness test. In addition, cars need to have a good rating in five other crash tests, an advanced or superior rating in front crash prevention, and good headlight ratings.

Thus, the field of the safest cars in 2018 has been whittled down to just these 16. Let us know – would you choose one of the following cars specifically because it's on the safest cars list? Comment down below!

Safest Cars in 2018

2018 Kia Forte Sedan

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It’s far from the most expensive vehicle listed here, but the 2018 Kia Forte is one of the safest cars you can buy. This is due to a modification in design for 2017 and beyond that reinforces the front end and the door structures. But it only applies to the sedan – the Koup doesn’t cut it.

For the 2018 Kia Forte sedan to get the 2018 IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus rating, it must be the EX trim equipped with Premium Plus package. It also needs the HID headlights with adaptive front lighting to get the nod.

2018 Kia Soul

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One of only five small cars on the list of 2018’s safest cars is the 2018 Kia Soul. It might be a surprise as it looks like a sporty little subcompact SUV, but it ranks high up there. Don’t be fooled, though – only a very select Kia Soul fits the build as one of the safest cars.

The 2018 Kia Soul needs to have optional autonomous braking, as well as the Primo Lit package or Technology package where you’ll get HID headlights. That narrows down the field... a little.

Current Post Tags
Safety: 15
Mercedes-Benz: 10
Hyundai: 10
Genesis: 10
Subaru: 10
Toyota: 10
Kia: 10
BMW: 10
Lexus: 10
Lincoln: 10
Commuter: 5
Crash Test: 15
IIHS: 15

Points: 22.0000 Recency: -3.0 -1.0%Kia Forte Earns an IIHS Top Safety Plus Rating
name: Crash Test type: Driving
name: IIHS type: Driving
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name: Safety type: Driving

Points: 21.0000 Recency: -3.0 -1.0%Top 5 Safest and Least Safe Automobiles
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12 of the Greatest Classic American Muscle Cars of All Time

The Ford Mustang is one of the best classic muscle cars

Jason Unrau
April 26, 2018

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5

The mid-sixties through the early-seventies were an amazing time in automotive engineering, especially for muscle cars. Those classic muscle cars were loud, they were fast, and they were gorgeous. It was what dreams were made of for young kids right through to retirees in that time.

That passion continues decades later. It’s been almost 55 years since the Ford Mustang was introduced, sparking the fervor for an affordable domestic sports car. No question, there isn’t a segment of the auto industry that gets as much attention, or debate. Or sometimes outright conflict.

Of course, there are some classic muscle cars that are popular, and others that could make an argument for being the best. We have 12 of those models listed here, in no particular order, of course.

Ford Mustang

It’s been in continuous production since the initial release in 1964. The Ford Mustang is certainly one of the most popular classic muscle cars of all time. Ford just hit 10 million copies sold of the original Pony Car. Amid the boos and hisses from Bowtie-lovers and Mopar guys, it would be really hard not to lead off with the Ford Mustang.

Its early years are the ones that most car lovers gravitate toward. The three main variants were the Ford Mustang convertible, the fastback, and the hardtop coupe. Over the years, a sports roof was used from time to time, and the Mustang nose was always familiar.

Some of the most muscular and sought-after Mustangs are the ones with performance packages. The Mach I, Boss 302 and Boss 429 are just a few that get the motor running, and are the ones you’d truly consider a muscle car, not just a pony car. And that's before you get into the even hotter Shebly versions like the GT350 and GT500 that make the Mustang even hotter.

Chevrolet Camaro

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The first-generation Chevrolet Camaro is arguably the best Camaro, ever. Its reason for existence was simple: to beat the Mustang. When it was first introduced, a definition for its name was also advertised as such: “A Camaro is a small, vicious animal that eats Mustangs.” Since then, the two have been fierce rivals, always trying to one-up the other.

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This first-gen Camaro was hot as hell, and still is. The simple body lines with bulging rear wheel wells give it an imposing stance. It’s a beast to drive too, with engine options including the ever-popular 350c.i. V8 and a behemoth 396c.i. V8 powerplant.

You could get the early Camaro in either hardtop coupe or convertible. And you could have yours as the standard Camaro build, the Super Sport (SS), the Rally Sport (RS), or the Z/28 model. If you have one of these classic muscle cars today, it commands a good buck every time. The first-year model, with the vent windows and round parking lights in the grille are the most popular, but there's nothing wrong with the 1968 and 1969 cars either.

Current Post Tags
Ford: 10
Chevrolet: 10
Camaro: 5
Mustang: 5
Dodge: 10
Pontiac: 10
Plymouth: 10
Charger: 5
Chevelle: 5
Challenger: 5
Performance: 6

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Points: 16.0000 Recency: -5.0 -1.0%Ford Mustang Gets a 10-Speed Transmission
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10 Facts You Might Not Know About RUF Porsches

Steven Symes
March 30, 2018

Pages: 1 2 3 4

While technically not Porsches, RUF has made a name for itself by transforming Porsche chassis into something more. Each RUF Porsche model pushes the limit further, making them highly desirable and much more expensive than Porsches.

Funny enough, RUF got into the car business before the Porsche brand existed. It dabbled in a little of this and a little of that. But it was in working with Porsche chassis that the name really became a legend.

Maybe you’ve seen some RUF Porsche models at different car show, saw a video about them once, or have been lucky enough to watch one in action. How many of the following facts did you already know?

1. The RUF R56.11 is a bit of a mutt

This car came from Alois Ruf’s personal desires to blend the qualities of the Porsche 356 and 911. From the 911, this model gets the brake system, steering, and suspension. As for the drivetrain, it’s a genuine mix of the two Porsches.

In the rear sits an air-cooled flat-four engine. It contains two overhead cams. The cylinder heads, cylinders and pistons come straight from the 911 series. So does the 5-speed manual gearbox.

Basically, you get the best of both worlds, and a result which is unlike anything else.

2. The RUF Turbo R is ready for the track

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RUF used an integrated roll cage, similar to the one in the CTR 2, when it launched the Turbo R in 1998. That design element alone makes this car ideal for track runs. The rear-seat delete also gets rid of the pretense that this vehicle is a people mover or something you’d take to the mall. A small sports steering wheel also lends itself to flat-out driving on a track.

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Of course, you could drive the Turbo R on the street and still have a great time. RUF custom designed the leather upholstery, plus used signature green instruments. Even the rear seat delete has a carpeted and finished appearance.

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Porsche: 10
Performance: 6
Modification: 5

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Toyota Yaris vs Hyundai Accent: Which Subcompact Is Best for You?

Evan Williams
March 7, 2018

Let's look at a Toyota Yaris vs Hyundai Accent comparison. These are two subcompact cars that offer two very different approaches to affordable transportation.

One aims at safety, the other at features and value. When you're looking at some of the lowest cost cars on the market, is the subcompact box a penalty, or just a smaller version of what their bigger siblings offer? This is the 2018 Toyota Yaris vs Hyundai Accent, head to head.

Toyota Yaris

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For 2018, Toyota refreshed the hatchback Yaris. It wasn't a big redesign, but it did add some needed updates. On the outside, a new front fascia dropped the chrome strip from last year for a sleeker look. Inside, there is a new instrument cluster and an updated infotainment system.

The Last Four-Speed Automatic in America

Under the short hood of the Toyota Yaris hatch is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque. The car is offered with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. That's right, a four-speed. It's the last new car in America to come with a four-speed automatic.

That lack of gears doesn't make for a bad powertrain. The 1.5-liter four pulls the car more quickly than you would expect from such a small displacement. Credit that to a car with a curb weight well under 2,400 lbs. With little weight, little power is needed.

It's not fast, but it's adequate. The engine revs happily, even under control of the automatic. It's not quiet at higher revs, but it's not a harsh noise. It wouldn't pass muster in an Avalon, but it's more than acceptable here. The four-speed isn't a liability either. While it serves as a reminder of cars of the 1990s, it's a breath of fresh air when compared to many current nine and 10-speed autos and it's preferable to a CVT.

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The Yaris is a tall hatch, but it doesn't feel tippy. The suspension isn't going to be confused with sporty, but the light weight and small 15 and 16-inch tires offer plenty of sidewall to absorb bumps and imperfections.

Toyota has loaded up the Yaris with active safety features. It doesn't get the brand's full suite, but it does have Safety Sense C. That means pre-collision emergency braking, lane departure alerts, and automatic high beams. Standard on all trims.

Inside the Toyota Yaris

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Inside, the tall Yaris has a tall driver's seat and a low dash. It gives great visibility, but comes with some issues. The steering wheel does tilt, but it doesn't tilt very high. Similarly, the seat doesn't go down close to the floor. For drivers who are big or tall, the gap between the bottom of the wheel and the seat cushion is small. The wheel was hard against my thighs when driving, not overly comfortable.

The Yaris has a very practical interior, with good space for its size, but it looks like the interior of a low-cost car. Hard plastics on the dash and steering wheel were acceptable when this car launched in 2013, but the state of the small car has moved on.

Hyundai Accent

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Enter the Hyundai Accent. Also redesigned for 2018, but this time it's all new. The bodywork makes it look like a scaled-down version of the Elantra, which is no bad target.

The Accent offers a 1.6-liter four that makes 130 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is standard on the base SE trim, with six-speed automatics for the rest of the line.

The extra power isn't as noticeable as you might expect, as the Accent tips the scales 344 lbs heavier than the Yaris with the automatic and nearly 170 heavier with the manual.

It still feels quick, in the way that only small cars can. The quick-shifting automatic lets you dart in and out of traffic, and offers plenty of power for highway merging. The engine is smoother and quieter than the Yaris. Quiet enough that it would sound at home in a larger, more expensive car.

The Accent's ride and handling make it feel like a small car that happens to be cheap, not a cheap car that is small. The light weight and tall height make it susceptible to wind gusts, but that is the biggest clue you're in a car of this class.

Inside the Hyundai Accent

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The Accent's extra weight comes from extra size. It rides on a 1.8-inch longer wheelbase and is 1.4-inches wider. That translates to slightly more rear legroom, but noticeably more hip room. 1.7-inches up front and an inch in the back. More importantly, it feels much wider. I was fighting with my passenger for elbow room in the Yaris, but not in the Accent.

The rest of the interior looks and feels like the larger and more expensive Elantra. This doesn't feel like a subcompact inside.

The SE model's 5.0-inch touchscreen audio system doesn't match up to the 6.1-inch system in the Yaris, but the 7.0-inch screen with Android Auto and Apple Carplay that is standard on SEL and Limited offers looks and connectivity that Toyota doesn't.

Hyundai doesn't spread the active safety features as widely as Toyota. Only the Limited gets forward collision avoidance, and lane keeping and automatic high beams aren't offered.

Toyota Yaris vs Hyundai Accent: The Verdict

At the pumps, the lower power, lower weight Yaris wins. It scores an EPA-rated 30 mpg city, 35 highway. The Accent is close at 28/38. Both come with small gas tanks, in the 11-gallon range, which means that even those figures lead to frequent highway fuel stops.

If you're looking for the most safety features for your dollar, the Toyota Yaris takes the prize. The same for max cargo space, since Hyundai has dropped the Accent hatch in the US. Behind the seats, though, the Accent's trunk beats the Yaris's small storage area.

Strangely, the Yaris doesn't offer heated seats in the US. Hyundai offers heated seats on the Limited, but doesn't offer the heated wheel that other markets get.

On the road, the Hyundai Accent looks and feels like it's a class above in interior materials, comfort and refinement. Hyundai has been playing catch-up for years, but the new Accent shows that they're starting to pull ahead.

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Toyota: 10
Accent: 10
Commuter: 5
Economy: 5
Yaris: 10

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12 Affordable Entry Level Luxury Cars for 2018 Models

BMW Series 2 is one of the best entry level luxury cars

Steven Symes

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5

If you want a luxury car that doesn’t come with a monthly payment to rival your mortgage, you’re not alone. Plenty of shoppers want the prestige, quality and overall experience of going with a luxury brand, without the financial hit. Fortunately, there are a lot of fantastic entry level luxury cars available in 2018.

Here are the entry level luxury cars from the premium car brands.

BMW 2 Series/3 Series

BMW has a legacy of making fun-to-drive and yet highly reliable cars that cater as much to luxury as to performance.

Some people argue that the company has lost sight of those roots, including certain BMW clubs. Still, there’s no denying the impressive nature of the 2 Series or 3 Series. Both are reasonably attractive vehicles, and they boast the feeling of excellent craftsmanship.

Mercedes-Benz CLA

[imageSource url="https://media.wheelscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/17C237_029.jpg" id="13461" class="right"]

Sure, some E-Class drivers look down at this “four-door coupe” as not being a true Mercedes, but it wears the same three-pointed start on the grille.

You might not find all the same amenities, but you should find enough to make the CLA a compelling option. Plus, the exterior design is undeniably sleek.

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Mercedes-Benz: 10
Genesis: 5
Tesla: 10
BMW: 10
Acura: 10
Audi: 10
Cadillac: 10
Lincoln: 10
Jaguar: 10
Infiniti: 10
Model 3: 5
Q50: 5
Luxury: 6
ILX: 5
Volvo: 10
3-Series: 5
MKZ: 5
CLA: 5
ATS: 5
XE: 5
A3: 5
G80: 5
S60: 5

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