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Test Drive: 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT

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Chevrolet Trailblazer LT

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT AWD in Midnight Blue Metallic

2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT AWD

Miles driven: 440

Fuel used: 13.6 gallons

CG Report Card
Room and Comfort B+
Power and Performance C+
Fit and Finish B-
Fuel Economy A
Value B+
Report-card grades are derived from a consensus of test-driver evaluations. All grades are versus other vehicles in the same class. Value grade is for specific trim level evaluated, and may not reflect Consumer Guide’s impressions of the entire model lineup.
Big & Tall Comfort
Big Guy B+
Tall Guy A-
Big & Tall comfort ratings are for front seats only. “Big” rating based on male tester weighing approximately 350 pounds, “Tall” rating based on 6’6″-tall male tester.
Drivetrain
Engine Specs 155-hp 1.3-liter
Engine Type 3-cylinder
Transmission 9-speed automatic
Drive Wheels AWD

Real-world fuel economy: 32.3 mpg

Driving mix: 30% city, 70% highway

EPA-estimated fuel economy: 26/30/28 (mpg city/highway/combined)

Fuel type: Regular gas

Base price: $25,600 (not including $995 destination charge)

Options on test vehicle: Adaptive Cruise Control Package ($620), Convenience Package ($620), Driver Confidence Package ($345)

Price as tested: $28,180

Quick Hits

The great: Fine passenger and cargo room within tidy exterior dimensions; good selection of available safety and convenience/technology features

The good: Fuel economy; pleasant ride and handling

The not so good: Some so-so cabin materials; a bit noisy in highway driving

More Chevrolet price and availability information

John Biel

What size crossover or SUV is right for you? That’s certainly a unique calculation based on multiple factors, with an answer specific to each buyer. Even without knowing you, though, we feel pretty confident in saying the right-sized one is out there because the manufacturers keep making more slot-fillers all the time.

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT

Chevrolet expands its SUV roster for 2021 with the Trailblazer, a new “large subcompact” SUV that revives the name of a midsize body-on-frame SUV that Chevy sold from 2002 to 2009.

Take the latest from Chevrolet, the 2021 Trailblazer, a subcompact that brings the brand’s count of SUV nameplates to seven, from the subcompact Trax to the hulking full-size Suburban. In the Chevy size-and-price hierarchy, it fits between the Trax and the compact Equinox. Trailblazer is built from a new General Motors global vehicle architecture intended to be the basis for a number of small sedans and crossovers; its closest kin in U.S. showrooms is the Buick Encore GX that bowed as a 2020 model.

Test Drive: 2020 Buick Encore GX Essence

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT

The Trailblazer’s dashboard layout is clean and straightforward.  LT models come standard with Chevy’s excellent Infotainment 3 system, and choosing the Convenience Package upgrades the touchscreen to an 8-inch display.

The Trailblazer, which recycles a name used on body-on-frame U.S.-market Chevy SUVs from 1999 to 2009 (as the TrailBlazer), comes in five trim levels: L, LS, LT, ACTIV, and RS. The L comes solely with front-wheel drive, but all others can be had with front- or all-wheel drive. Consumer Guide got its first taste of the new Trailblazer as an AWD LT with a price that started at $26,595 (including delivery) but grew to $28,180 with options.

All AWD Trailblazers come with a 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission, but in LS and LT jobs, this counts as an upgrade over their standard 1.2-liter turbo three. (A continuously variable transmission is standard in FWD Trailblazers, even those with the larger engine.) Thus, adding all-wheel capability adds $2000 to an LS or LT, but $1500 to the ACTIV and RS.

Test Drive: 2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT

There’s decent space for adults in both the front and rear seats. The LT is a midline trim level in the Trailblazer lineup, and it comes standard with cloth upholstery. Stepping up to the ACTIV model gets you simulated leather.

The Trailblazer rests on a 103.9-inch wheelbase and stretches out to a full 173.5 inches, which makes it 3.1 and 9.5 inches shorter, respectively, than the Equinox. AWD jobs have a full eight inches of ground clearance, 0.5 inch higher than the front drivers.

Though we categorize it as a subcompact, the Trailblazer hovers right on the line between our subcompact and compact SUV classes. As one of the roomiest vehicles in its class, it boasts comfortable space for four adults. (With the driver’s seat set for this 5-foot, 10.5-inch reviewer, he had legroom to spare when occupying the seat behind.) Headroom is ample in both rows. With all seats up there is room for 25.3 cubic feet of cargo on a flat load floor; when the 60/40-split second-row seats fold almost flat, capacity grows to 54.4 cubic feet. In models from the LS on up, the front passenger seat back folds to make space for long objects.

Test Drive: 2020 Chevrolet Equinox Premier

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT, Cargo Space, rear hatch

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is has 25.3 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the rear seats, and 54.4 with the rear seats folded. That’s shy of the Kia Seltos (26.6 and 62.8, respectively) but still one of the best in the subcompact class.

Appointments are, let’s say, somewhat basic through the LT level. Spongy, padded surfaces are few and far between. The test truck’s seats were covered in standard fabric dressed up with patterned accent panels. The steering wheel and shifter knob had leather wrappings that were part of an adaptive cruise control option package that also included a pull-down center armrest for the rear seat and a 4.2-inch color driver-information display within the instrument cluster. Automatic single-zone air conditioning and an 8-inch touchscreen for the easy-to-use Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system were extra-cost upgrades over the manual A/C and 7-inch screen that are standard in LTs.

The LT does stand out from lesser Trailblazers by virtue of its LED fog lamps, heated power mirrors with body-color caps, silver-painted roof rails, specific 17-inch alloy wheels, silver-painted front and rear lower fasciae, remote-starting capability, keyless access, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats. Some other features included in the base price are a 6-speaker audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone compatibility, forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking (including for pedestrians), lane-keeping assist, automatic headlight high-beam control, and teen-driver monitoring. In addition to options already mentioned, the test truck came with added satellite radio, rear USB charge ports, and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts among other things.

Test Drive: 2020 Hyundai Kona Ultimate

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT

All-wheel-drive Trailblazers come standard with a turbocharged 1.3-liter 3-cylinder engine that makes 155 horsepower and is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. LTs come standard with 17-inch gloss-black alloy wheels.

The 1.3-liter engine generates 155 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 174 lb-ft of torque at 1600 rpm—13 percent more horsepower and almost 7.5 percent more torque than the 1.2-liter engine makes. That quickly reached torque peak makes a Trailblazer with the 1.3 acceptably lively from a standstill, and the stepped-gear transmission helps it get up to easily maintained highway speed without much fuss. The “big” engine’s downside is that it lacks smoothness at idle or lower speeds, and it’s not particularly quiet. In CG’s testing, the AWD Trailblazer was a solid 30-mpg vehicle—this reviewer averaged 30.1 mpg from 66.3-mile trip with 45 percent city-type driving. However, the suspicion is that a 3-cylinder engine ought to enable it to do better than 26 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined, which are its EPA fuel-economy ratings.

Chevy’s newest small ute is an easy and alert handler, and it tackles pavement bumps reasonably well. However, a bit of road noise does get through in highway driving. All-wheel drive is selectable as a drive mode (“Normal” and “Sport” are the others) in situations where traction help is deemed necessary.

Convenient controls are handy to use, and cabin storage space for incidentals is at least varied if not abundant. On balance, the new Trailblazer strikes us as a price-conscious vehicle, at least to the LT level, where it’s better than austere but hardly plush. Perhaps that’s the right fit for you.

First Spin: 2020 Mazda CX-30

Chevrolet Trailblazer LT

Chevrolet’s new small crossover SUV boasts spunky styling and excellent interior room for its size. Acceleration from its 3-cylinder engine is better than you might expect (at least in around-town driving), the ride is decently absorbent for a small vehicle, and a good range of safety and technology features are available.

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2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT Gallery

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT

Written by: The Daily Drive staff on November 2, 2020.

Test Drive: 2021 Toyota Venza XLE

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2021 Toyota Venza

2021 Toyota Venza in Blizzard Pearl white paint

Venza2021 Toyota Venza XLE

Class: Midsize Crossover SUV

Miles driven: 141

Fuel used: 3.4 gallons

CG Report Card
Room and Comfort B+
Power and Performance B
Fit and Finish A-
Fuel Economy A
Value A
Report-card grades are derived from a consensus of test-driver evaluations. All grades are versus other vehicles in the same class. Value grade is for specific trim level evaluated, and may not reflect Consumer Guide’s impressions of the entire model lineup.
Big & Tall Comfort
Big Guy A-
Tall Guy A
Big & Tall comfort ratings are for front seats only. “Big” rating based on male tester weighing approximately 350 pounds, “Tall” rating based on 6’6″-tall male tester.
Drivetrain
Engine Specs 219-hp 2.5L
Engine Type 4-cylinder hybrid
Transmission CVT automatic
Drive Wheels AWD

Real-world fuel economy: 41.5 mpg

Driving mix: 60% city, 40% highway

EPA-estimated fuel economy: 40/37/39 (city, highway, combined)

Base price: $36,000 (not including $1175 destination charge)

Options on test vehicle: 12.3-inch JBL Premium Audio ($2050)

Price as tested: $39,225

Quick Hits

The great: Smooth hybrid powertrain delivers excellent fuel economy; generous list of standard equipment, including safety features

The good: High-class interior trimmings; sleek styling inside and out

The not so good: Cargo volume isn’t as good as most class rivals; not all testers like capacitive-touch controls

More Toyota price and availability information

John Biel

If you need any further proof that there are lots of crossover sport-utilities on the market, the fact that automakers seem to be running out of names could be a tip-off. Consider that Blazer, Bronco, and Passport—all discarded nameplates from SUVs big and small—have lately come out of mothballs. Now Toyota is reaching into its recent past for Venza, the label you’ll find on the tailgate of a two-row midsize crossover added for the 2021 model year.

2021 Toyota Venza

Toyota revives its Venza nameplate for 2021 on a sleekly styled 5-passenger midsize crossover SUV that comes solely with a hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive. Upscale interior appointments also come standard.

The Venza badge previously graced a 5-passenger midsize crossover that Toyota sold in the U.S. from 2009 to 2015. It was a bit more car-like than the new product, and where the last-decade Venza came with a choice of 4-cylinder or V6 power and front- or all-wheel drivelines, the Venza for the Twenties is solely hybrid powered with AWD.

Test Drive: 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

2021 Toyota Venza XLE

The Venza’s cabin has a pleasant, classy feel. Our XLE tester was equipped with the $2050 JBL Premium Audio option, which also adds a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and Toyota’s Dynamic Navigation.

One way this Venza picks up where the last one left off is in model offerings. Ascending LE, XLE, and Limited trims are again available, with prices beginning at $33,645 including delivery. Consumer Guide sampled an XLE that started at $37,175 but tacked on 9-speaker JBL premium audio with navigation on a big 12.3-inch touchscreen to reach $39,225. (One extra we would have liked to see is the new “Star Gaze” panoramic roof that uses electrochromic technology to switch from transparent to frosted at the push of a button, but it’s a $1400 option reserved for the Limited.)

Test Drive: 2019 Honda Passport Elite

2021 Toyota Venza XLE

The rear-seat area is spacious and comfortable, though headroom can be tight for passengers above 6 feet tall. Central HVAC controls and dual USB charging ports are standard.

XLE standard equipment includes 19-inch super-chrome-finish alloy wheels, hands-free power liftgate, rear cargo cover, leather-wrapped steering wheel, “Softex” leatherette-and-fabric seats, power 8-way-adjustable driver’s seat, 7-inch color vehicle-information display, wireless smartphone charging, Smart Key access to doors and tailgate, push-button starting, and dual-zone climate control. The infotainment system (with 8-inch touchscreen) incorporates satellite and HD radio; Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility; Bluetooth wireless technology; and Toyota Remote Services. Driver assists are a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking assist with automated braking. Plus, all Venzas get Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 features: a pre-collision system with low-light pedestrian and bicycle detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning with lane-keep assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, and road-sign assist.

The Venza does for Toyota what many other manufacturers have done, and that is cover both ends of the midsize crossover space. Venza’s 105.9-inch wheelbase actually matches that of the compact RAV4, but at 186.6 inches overall, the newcomer is five inches longer between the bumpers—though eight inches shy of the 3-row Highlander. The Venza is built from the Toyota New Global Architecture K platform already in use by several other vehicle lines. It rides a suspension of struts in front and independent multiple links in back. Like some of today’s other two-row midsize debutantes (think Chevrolet Blazer and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport for instance), Venza is a little more style-driven than the usual midsize ute, with a more sweeping profile than the vehicles between which it fits.

Test Drive: 2019 Chevrolet Blazer Premier

2021 Toyota Venza XLE

With the rear seats up or down, the Venza’s cargo area isn’t as large as most two-row midsize SUV competitors’. There’s 28.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, and 55.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. For comparison, the Ford Edge’s respective cargo-area measurements are 39.2 cubic feet and 73.4 cubic feet.

How, then, can the Venza hope to stand out in an already-busy field? Two words: Powertrain. Driveline. Alone among U.S.-market crossovers it will be a) powered by nothing but a hybrid powerplant and b) driven through all four wheels. A 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine is mated to three electric motors and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for 219 system horsepower. The AWD system electronically enlists a rear-mounted electric motor to drive the rear wheels when needed to help reduce front wheel slip or improve cornering. Up to 80 percent of available torque can be directed rearward.

The Venza is nicely responsive in around-town driving. It is quiet, and essentially seamless when going from electric to internal-combustion power. In highway driving, the CVT gives the effect of a prompt geared-transmission kickdown when passing power is called for. Three drive modes—“Normal,” “ECO,” and “Sport”—are available to drivers. Sport mode is supposed to sharpen throttle response, but from where this driver sat, any gain was evanescent. ECO tunes the throttle and climate-control system for greater fuel efficiency. The Venza handles very easily, effectively shelters passengers from most road shocks, and brakes with less of the vagueness that traditionally plagues hybrids.

Should I Buy a Car or Crossover?

The Venza does for Toyota what many other manufacturers have done, and that is cover both ends of the midsize crossover space. Venza’s 105.9-inch wheelbase actually matches that of the compact RAV4, but at 186.6 inches overall, the newcomer is five inches longer between the bumpers—though eight inches shy of the 3-row Highlander. The Venza is built from the Toyota New Global Architecture K platform already in use by several other vehicle lines. It rides a suspension of struts in front and independent multiple links in back. Like some of today’s other two-row midsize debutantes (think Chevrolet Blazer and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport for instance), Venza is a little more style-driven than the usual midsize ute, with a more sweeping profile than the vehicles between which it fits.

All Venzas come with the same powertrain: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder paired with three electric motors for a total output of 219 system horsepower. XLE models come standard with 19-inch “super chrome” alloy wheels in place of the LE’s 18s.

Official EPA fuel-economy numbers are 40 mpg city/37 highway/39 combined on all Venza trim levels. Those are class leading numbers, and we actually did a bit better during our time with a pre-production test vehicle: In 141 miles of 60 percent city driving, we averaged 41.5 mpg.

Inside, four adult passengers will find fairly good head- and legroom. (The rear seat is slightly too narrow to get three grown-ups across it comfortably.) A compact lithium-ion battery pack for the electric motors fits under the rear seats, saving room for passengers and cargo. Owners can stash 28.8 cubic feet of stuff behind the second row. The space extends pretty far forward, but the roof rake that gives the Venza its sporting look reduces the height of objects that can be stored near the back. Rear seats fold flat for added capacity, and there’s some bonus hidden space under the floor if you’re willing to let your goods take their chances with the spare tire.

Test Drive: 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited

2021 Venza

The Venza puts an emphasis on sleek, rakish styling. In addition the the full-width LED taillight, XLE and Limited models get a full-width center high-mounted stop light as well.

The XLE interior is comfortable and attractive for the price. There’s more soft-touch area than you’ll find in some pricier vehicles. Among other things, the colorful vehicle-information readout in the instrument cluster monitors hybrid-system function. Even on the uplevel infotainment system setup and access is fairly straightforward, but everything—including climate controls—is operated via capacitive controls which requires a lot of repetitive pushes to get desired settings. Personal-item storage is varied and abundant enough to be serviceable, but nothing more.

Some other Toyota crossovers may hold more passengers or be more space efficient. However, the revivified Venza plugs a gap in the brand’s SUV hierarchy with a stylish and nicely equipped alternative.

Car Shopping Tips: Test Drive Checklist

2021 Toyota Venza

Outside of the Ford Explorer and Toyota’s own Highlander, the revived-for-2021 Venza is the only hybrid available in the mainstream midsize SUV class. Its excellent fuel economy is a key selling point, but the generous list of standard and available features, comfortable ride, and classy cabin also make the Venza a compelling choice.

Check out the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast

2021 Toyota Venza XLE Gallery

Toyota Venza XLE

Written by: The Daily Drive staff on August 18, 2020.

News: Ford Pumps Up the Electric Volume on its Crown Jewel

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2021 F-150 Adds Hybrid, Confirms Full Electric Version

It’s only been five years since the last major redesign of the Ford F-150, not a long time historically in the truck world, but with competition heating up both in the traditional competitors and newcomers, Ford is pushing forward with the introduction of the all-new 2021 F-150, a remake of its best-selling and most lucrative model.

2021 Ford F-150, Ford, news, full-size pickup, electric pickup, hybrid pickup, electrification

A new look for the F-150 (1 of 11)

The goal of the introduction this week, hosted by Ford spokesperson Dennis Leary and featuring a variety of Ford employees and F-150 customers, was to show that Ford is well-aware that its industry-leading position (best-selling truck for the past 43 years) is not something assumed, but an achievement to be re-earned every year. The 2021 Ford F-150 has a very simple goal—maintain and expand that market lead for another year or two.

Highlights of the introduction (some detail below) included the presentation of a new full hybrid model and confirmation that a full-electric version is coming. The other big takeaway is that electrification in a pickup take a significantly different form that in a sedan. In a truck application, the emphasis of a large battery is less on propulsion and zero emission miles than on providing a mobile power source for tools and toys.

Next year’s F-150, which will go on sale this fall, follows the typical pickup mold of offering a dizzying number of options in an attempt to provide a potential pickup for every possible buyer. The completely redesigned truck (every one of the aluminum exterior panel is new) will offer six engines, 13 different wheels and 11 grille options in a half-dozen trim levels.

Fuel Economy Focus

2021 Ford F-150

Aerodynamics & tough pickups don’t always go together

Although no official fuel economy numbers are available, Ford pointed out that it was the most aerodynamic pickup the company has ever designed, employing grille shutters, a new automatically deploying air dam and new cab and tailgate geometry to reduce drag and reduce fuel consumption on all models.

The new hybrid F-150 will use an all-new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, augmented by a 35-kW/47-horsepower electric motor. A 10-speed transmission and 1.5 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery (mounted between the frame rails so it doesn’t take up any passenger or cargo space) complete the powertrain.

The all-electric F-150 will come in 2022, according to Ford COO Jim Farley. When it arrives, it will likely face several competitors, including the Rivian R1T, GMC Hummer, Tesla Cybertruck, Lordstown Endeavor and Nikola Badger.

Electrification on the Job

Back to the present, Ford sees electric power as another tool for the job. The 2021 F-150 will come up with up to 7.2 kilowatts (kW) of exportable power, enough to run a generator and a variety of power tools through 120-volt and/or 240-volt outlets.

2021 Ford F-150

Plugs for all your jobs

Inside Ford has added a variety of high-tech features that point out how mainstream the modern pickup has become. One clever addition is that, with a few quick shifts of hardware, the center console can become a desk big enough to hold a laptop. Above that center console half of the F-150 lineup will have 12.0-inch touchscreen displays, matching what’s becoming the standard for the segment. The display will come equipped with Sync4, the latest version of Ford’s infotainment system. Ten new advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are going to be available.

Recognizing the variety of uses a truck might undergo, Ford has designed the front seats to recline 180 degrees, so not only is the pickup and office, but also a bedroom. Under the backseat is a lockable storage unit for stashing away valuables or expensive tools.

The Most List

What a pickup needs is a most list and Ford has drawn up a long one. The stated goal of the 2021 F-150 is to be able to tow the biggest load in its class, carry the heaviest payload, have the most horsepower and torque and also have the longest range.

2021 Ford F-150

More tech than seen in a pickup before

Don’t expect the competition to take this lying down, but Ford also had other news last week that went well beyond the news about the redesign of its best-selling product. The company laid out a goal of becoming of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 with three areas of focus that account for  95 peercent of the companies CO2 emissions:

  • Vehicle use
  • Supply base
  • Facilities

On the vehicle side, it’s putting $11.5 billion through 2022 into the Mustang Mach-E, Transit Commercial and fully electric F-150. It expects all of its manufacturing plants to use 100 percent locally sourced renewable energy by 2035.

Story by Michael Coates

Make sure to opt-in to the Clean Fleet Report newsletter (top right of page) to be notified of all new stories and vehicle reviews.

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For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out Gardena Nissan TODAY!

Test Drive: 2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

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2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum, Moon Dust

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum AWD in “Moon Dust” metallic silver paint (a $425 option)

2015 Audi Q52020 Toyota Highlander Platinum AWD

Class: Midsize Crossover SUV

Miles driven: 298

Fuel used: 14.0 gallons

CG Report Card
Room and Comfort A-
Power and Performance B+
Fit and Finish A
Fuel Economy B
Value B+
Report-card grades are derived from a consensus of test-driver evaluations. All grades are versus other vehicles in the same class. Value grade is for specific trim level evaluated, and may not reflect Consumer Guide’s impressions of the entire model lineup.
Big & Tall Comfort
Big Guy A
Tall Guy A
Big & Tall comfort ratings are for front seats only. “Big” rating based on male tester weighing approximately 350 pounds, “Tall” rating based on 6’6″-tall male tester.
Drivetrain
Engine Specs 295-hp 3.5-liter
Engine Type V6
Transmission 8-speed automatic
Drive Wheels AWD

Real-world fuel economy: 21.3 mpg

Driving mix: 45% city, 55% highway

EPA-estimated fuel economy: 20/27/23 (city, highway, combined)

Fuel type: Regular gas

Base price: $48,800 (not including $1120 destination charge)

Options on test vehicle: Special color ($425), carpeted floor mats/cargo mat ($318), cargo cross bars ($350), universal tablet holder ($99)

Price as tested: $51,112

Quick Hits

The great: Expanded cargo volume; long list of comfort and convenience features; classy cabin trim

The good: Pleasant ride and driving manners; satisfying acceleration

The not so good: Third row seat is best suited for kids

More Highlander price and availability information

John Biel

More Highlander with more to it is Toyota’s plan for its 3-row midsize crossover sport-ute in 2020. It is redesigned on a new platform that’s 2.4 inches longer overall—with the added length at the rear to expand cargo volume—and gifted with several new convenience features. Considering the exceptional contenders in the class, particularly the all-new Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, the moves were practically mandatory.

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

The Highlander grows a bit larger with its redesign for 2020, and most of that space comes aft of the rear wheels to improve cargo room. The roof cross bars on our test vehicle are a $350 accessory option.

The redone Highlander comes in five gas and four hybrid trim levels, all with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. Consumer Guide tested a top-of-the-heap gas-engine Platinum with AWD. Base price, with delivery, is $49,920 (the torque-vectoring all-wheel drive adds $1950 to the cost of a Platinum), and the test vehicle came to $51,112 with extra-cost Moon Dust paint and a trio of relatively inexpensive options.

First Look: 2021 Toyota Venza

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

The top-line Highlander’s interior gets a bit ritzier with the 2020 redesign, boasting handsome satin-metal-look accents, upscale leather, and classy stitching. The center console houses drive-mode controls; an electronic parking brake; and on/off switches for the traction control, snow mode, hill-descent control, auto stop/start systems.

The sole engine offering for gas-only Highlanders is the carried-over 295-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 mated to an 8-speed automatic. (A 2.7-liter four that had been the base engine in prior years has been dropped for 2020.) Smooth and powerful overall, the V6 responds well from a standing start, and takes advantage of snappy transmission kickdown for good passing power in highway driving. There’s a slim improvement in eagerness when “Sport” mode is activated. In a 78-mile test stint with 30 percent city-type driving, this reviewer recorded 20.8 mpg. The EPA projects a V6 AWD Highlander for 20 mpg in city use, plus 27 mpg on the highway and 23 combined.

Test Drive: 2020 Ford Explorer Platinum

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

The Highlander’s second row is spacious enough for adults to ride in comfort. Our test vehicle was equipped with captain’s chairs (which come with a floor-mounted cupholder), but a bench seat is available for 8-passenger seating. Just visible on the front passenger seat back is the universal tablet holder, a $99 accessory.

Ride and handling are examples of classic crossover execution, with driving ease and passenger comfort at the forefront. The ’20 Highlander’s size gain isn’t just in body length. The wheelbase is stretched by 2.4 inches as well, a factor in ride that is nicely composed and resistant to most bumps. The only handling issue this tester encountered was a need for regular steering correction in blustery crosswinds.

First Spin: 2020 Toyota Highlander

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

The Highlander’s third-row seat is best suited for children, and passengers small and limber enough to climb back there easily.

With the expanded body dimensions, cargo capacity is increased regardless of seating configuration—maximum capacity with the flat-folding second- and third-row seats retracted has been raised to 84.3 cubic from 78.6 cubic feet in 2019. The Highander Platinum comes standard with a hands-free power liftgate. A sizeable left sidewall indent and some wide, shallow space under the rear cargo floor (with a slot for stowing the cargo cover when not needed) add to the vehicle’s cargo-carrying flexibility.

Numerous features added for 2020 finally bring the Highlander up to par with the rest of the field. They include Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone connectivity, Amazon Alexa compatibility, Qi wireless charging, a 10-inch head-up display (with speedometer, road-sign recognition, and navigation information in V6 models), a Wi-Fi hotspot, an infotainment touchscreen expanded to 12.3 inches, and a digital rearview mirror that can project an unobstructed camera image in the mirror. All are standard on the Platinum. Another upgrade, this one built into all Highlanders, is the 2.0 version of the Toyota Safety Sense package of safety and driver-assistance features: forward-collision warning with emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning and mitigation, automatic high-beam headlights, lane-trace assist, road-sign recognition, and full-speed adaptive cruise control.

Test Drive: 2020 Kia Telluride SX

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

There’s 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the Highlander’s third-row seats, which grows to 84.3 cubic feet with both the second- and third-row seats folded to create a smooth, level load floor.

There’s more to the Highlander Platinum. Other standard features are 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and fog lights, heated power mirrors with puddle lamps, panoramic sunroof, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Upholstery is leather. Power-adjustable front seats are heated and ventilated, and the second-row captains chairs are heated. The climate system is trizone; the audio setup is an 11-speaker JBL unit with satellite radio. Rear obstacle detection with automatic braking and blind-spot/rear cross-traffic alerts are included too.

Test Drive: 2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

The lone powertrain offered on non-hybrid Highlanders is a carryover 3.5-liter V6 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Twenty-inch alloy wheels are standard on Limited and Platinum models.

Passengers will find the top-line Highlander eminently habitable. There’s fine head- and legroom in the front two rows on comfortable seats. You’ll be able to fit actual adults in third-row seats, albeit not for long, and they can’t be taller than about 5-foot-10. Plenty of soft, pliable surfaces are deployed about the cabin. Audio controls are essentially intuitive and easy to work on the big, colorful horizontal touchscreen. (External volume and tuning knobs are handy.) Climate relies on lots of repetitive-push buttons, but second-row passengers get a thorough bank of controls that they can work for themselves. Personal items can be stashed in a big, configurable console box that also houses the flip-up wireless charger pad; the good-sized glovebox; a small pull-out drawer to the left of the steering column; a pouch on the back of each front seat; and large pockets in all doors. There are open cup holders in the console, in the floor-level tray between the second-row seats, and in the hard-plastic sidewalls of the third row.

It’s a good thing for the Highlander—and those thinking of buying one—that it has been brought in line featurewise with the new and well-equipped competitors in its group. But catching up isn’t leading. Shoppers in this segment have several excellent choices and can afford to be choosy. Perhaps they’ll find that more Highlander is just what they need.

Test Drive: 2019 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

The redesigned 2020 Toyota Highlander gains a number of enhancements–including more space and some welcome new features–that help it keep pace with the formidable competition in its segment.

Listen to the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum Gallery

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum

Written by: The Daily Drive staff on June 8, 2020.

Road Test: 2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

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Entry Crossover Hitting Above Its Weight

Made To Do More. Explore The Possibilities. Rugged and Ready. A Penchant for Adventure.

These are just a few of what Kia wants you to experience with the all-new 2021 Seltos. Clean Fleet Report spent a week in the highly optioned Seltos SX Turbo AWD, and came away with a smile and satisfaction of having experienced much on Kia’s wish list.

2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

The sleek side view

Smooth Operator

The all-wheel drive (AWD) Kia Seltos SX has a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that, running on 92 octane, produces 175 horsepower (hp) and 195 pound-feet of torque (lb.-ft.). Our zero-to-60 times were around 9.0 seconds, which was plenty peppy for the 3,317-pound Seltos. For best performance, the seven-speed DCT (dual clutch transmission) automatic has three driver-selectable drive modes–Normal, Smart and Sport. For fuel economy we stayed in Smart, while turning the selector wheel all the way to the right, we found Sport for more spirited driving.

The EPA rates the 1.6L turbo at 25 mpg city/30 highway/27 combined. In 260 miles driving throughout Southern California we averaged 28.1 mpg. But on a 175-mile all-freeway run, with the smart cruise control set at 65 mph, we averaged a stout 33.5 mpg.

Driving Experience: On the Road

There is a slight bit of hesitation when accelerating from a stop, but it is not to be confused with turbo lag. When launching the Seltos SX there seems to be a momentary turbo lag, but what is felt is the DCT automatic engaging. The DCT is a manual transmission at heart and, for some additional fun, place the shift lever into the manual setting and shift through the seven gears manually. If you are not a fan of a DCT, Kia offers the Seltos with its version of a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT), called an ITV, for Intelligent Variable Transmission. A CVT/IVT has no gears and no shifts, so it is smooth accelerating or decelerating.

2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

The SX shoes

The 18-inch machined alloy wheels, which are unique to the SX trim, are shod with Kuhmo 235/45 all-season tires. On certain paved surfaces there was noticeable road noise transmitted to the cabin. The wider tires not only help with handling, but also with stopping.

The Seltos SX AWD makes use of torque vectoring, which increases traction by predicting which wheel will best utilize power in a given road situation. This enhances stability in corners and gives the vehicle more connection to the road. The good steering feel and the AWD system gave a solid, stable command of the road, with high-speed freeway ramps able to be attacked over the posted speed limit. There was little affect by passing big rigs, and the body roll when pushing corners a bit too fast was minor and nothing that wasn’t predictable or manageable.

For additional traction on snow-covered or icy roads, there is a Lock button that locks the center coupling, offering sure-footed traction up-to about 25 miles per hour. This is a handy feature when the roads get sloppy and tricky.

The Seltos SX is composed, and for a subcompact crossover, the overall ride was pleasant, encouraging long road trips. While not sporty, the Seltos SX is fun and easy to drive.

All-New: In and Out

The 2021 Kia Seltos slots between the Soul and Sportage, carving-up Kia’s crossover offerings with even a sharper knife. The Seltos shares the platform with the Hyundai Kona (which Clean Fleet Report really liked), but the Seltos has been stretched by one inch in the wheelbase and eight inches in length. The exterior of our test Seltos was painted in Starbright Yellow with a black roof, a color combination that brought out its personality. Small crossovers can blend together, but not the Seltos as its styling is unique.

2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

Angles from every angle

Available in five trim levels of LX, EX, S 2.0L, S 1.6T, and SX, the Seltos has a smooth exterior with a few well-placed sharp angles. Clean Fleet Report’s SX model had LED headlights with a stacked design separating the daytime running lights and fog lights that are located on the outer corners in the bottom fascia. For a cool factor, the SX upgraded the signature tiger nose grille with a horizontal LED light bar that runs nearly the complete length of the grille.

The appealing side view has a gently sloping windshield with chrome rack rails, black rear view mirrors with slim LED turn signals, a black color-keyed shark fin antenna and an integrated spoiler over the rear hatch window. The sides have minimal chrome, with the strip below the windows ending in an attractive design element on the rear pillar. The horizontal LED taillights are connected by a chrome eyebrow strip, which houses the slim back-up lights. The concave design of the hatch includes the Seltos and SX badges. The black bumper has a chrome strip with simulated exhaust ports that looked odd, but the flat silver plate on the bottom of the rear fascia looks sharp.

Climbing inside, the cabin includes ample leg and headroom for two six-footers up front with the rear seat providing good space and comfort for two adults–three for short trips. Clean Fleet Report was driving the 2020 Seltos SX, which came with what Kia calls Sofino leatherette seats. The driver seat was heated and 10-way power adjustable with lumbar, while the passenger gets manual adjustments. We like that the outlook on the road, with 7.3 inches of ground clearance, was higher than a sedan, but not as high as a SUV. The rear seat center armrest has cup holders, and if there are no passengers out back, fold down the 60/40 split rear seat for additional storage area. With the rear seat folded flat, at 5’9”, I was able to lie down, so being able to sleep in the Seltos in a pinch is an added benefit. The rear storage area has a convenient feature where the floor panel can be dropped-down about two inches, producing additional space for taller items.

2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

Even the speakers have angles

Our Seltos SX came with a 10.25-inch touchscreen housing Kia’s UVO telematics and navigation. The eight-speaker Bose sound system, with a subwoofer, produced excellent sound for AM/FM//MP3/and Sirius/XM. Android Auto Apple CarPlay, Siri Eyes Free, with smartphone integration via Bluetooth, complete the audio system. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has controls for audio, telephone and cruise control. Big thanks to Kia designers for the knobs and wheels to control the radio and automatic temperature control. A note about the speakers. First, the grilles are multi-dimensional, giving a unique look compared to a basic flat speaker cover. Second, the Bose system has sound-connected mood lighting that pulsates with six color themes that change colors and intensity based on volume level. You will need to visit your Kia dealer at night to check-out this cool feature.

Other features are heated and power side mirrors with turn signals, USB ports, wireless charging, sliding front center armrest, cargo cover, rear passenger vents and USB ports, automatic climate control, remote and push button start.

Safety and Warranties

2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

The SX shoes

The Seltos comes with an extensive list of standard and optional safety features. Make sure to speak with your Kia sales rep for what safety features come with which trim level. If you are looking to save a few dollars on your Seltos purchase, don’t skimp on the advanced driver safety assistance systems (ADAS).

Safety items include front, side and curtain airbags, forward collision avoidance, stability control, smart cruise control with stop and go, blind spot collision warning and collision avoidance, park assist with front and rear sensors, vehicle stability management, traction control, hill start assist, tire pressure monitoring system, engine immobilizer, lane keeping assist and departure warning, and rear cross traffic alert.

Since the 2021 Kia Seltos is new, it has not been rated by the National Highway and Safety Administration (NHTSA) or The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Seltos comes with these warranties:

  • Powertrain – 10 years/100,000 miles
  • Basic – Five years/60,000 miles
  • Roadside Assistance – Five years/60,000 miles

Pricing

The 2021 Kia Seltoscomes in five trim levels with base prices, including the $1,120 destination charge, ranging from $23,110 to $28,990. Clean Fleet Report’s Seltos SX with the 1.6L turbocharged engine, AWD and with $475 in options, had a MSRP of $29,485.

Observations: 2020 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

Kia has designed the 2021 Seltos to appeal to buyers looking for something a bit larger than smallest crossovers and a bit smaller than midsize crossovers. Sort of a Goldilocks kind of thing.

2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD

Goldilocks?

For versatility, ride, style, fuel economy, and standard and available safety equipment, the 2021 Kia Seltos is hard to beat. But does it meet everything Kia pointed out made the Seltos so special? Did it make us want to do more? Explore the possibilities? Was it rugged and ready? and did it have a penchant for adventure? Yes, Yes, Yes and Yes. We can easily see an owner using the Seltos for commuting, weekend errands and filling it with camping gear and heading off into the vast unknown. The AWD inspires confidence for on road driving and mild off-roading.

In January 2020, Kia announced it will be offering 11 electric vehicles by 2025, with the first model hitting showrooms in 2021. With the Seltos being all-new for 2021, it is too early to speculate on future changes. But since Kia currently sells two electric vehicles (the Soul and Niro), as well as two plug-in hybrids (Niro and Optima) and two hybrids (Niro and Optima), don’t be surprised if the Seltos gets some sort of electrification in the coming decade. Since it shares the Kona platform and the Kona already has an EV, it’s not too much of a stretch. One advantage of the Seltos being at least a hybrid, would be fuel economy that would easily pass the magic 40 mpg mark. Until then, visit your Kia dealer and test drive what Clean Fleet Report feels is one of the best entry-level crossovers on the market. We don’t think you will be disappointed.

Make sure to opt-in to the Clean Fleet Report newsletter (top right of page) to be notified of all new stories and vehicle reviews.

Whatever you buy, Happy Driving!

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Disclosure:

Clean Fleet Report is loaned free test vehicles from automakers to evaluate, typically for a week at a time. Our road tests are based on this one-week drive of a new vehicle. Because of this we don’t address issues such as long-term reliability or total cost of ownership. In addition we are often invited to manufacturer events highlighting new vehicles or technology. As part of these events we may be offered free transportation, lodging or meals. We do our best to present our unvarnished evaluations of vehicles and news irrespective of these inducements.

Our focus is on vehicles that offer the best fuel economy in their class. We also feature those that are among the top mpg vehicles in their class. In addition, we aim to offer reviews and news on advanced technology and the alternative fuel vehicle market. We welcome any feedback from vehicle owners and are dedicated to providing a forum for alternative viewpoints. Please let us know your views at publisher@cleanfleetreport.com.

First Look: 2021 Toyota Sienna

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2021 Toyota Sienna Limited

2021 Toyota Sienna Limited

Toyota’s Sienna minivan is currently one of the oldest contenders in its segment, with a basic design that dates back to the 2010 model year. That’s about to change in the near future; Toyota unveiled the all-new fourth-generation version of its long-running minivan today via an online webcast. The 2021 Toyota Sienna is redesigned from the ground up, gaining flashier styling, a topline Platinum trim level, a host of new comfort and safety features, and a standard hybrid powertrain on all models.

2021 Toyota Sienna

Yep… all 2021 Siennas are now gas-electric hybrids. The new standard powertrain is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors for a total output of 243 horsepower. Toyota estimates the new Sienna will achieve up to 33 mpg in combined city/highway driving. For the record, the Chrysler Pacifica is the only other minivan to offer a hybrid version. The Pacifica Hybrid is a plug-in-hybrid, which must be plugged in and charged for optimal efficiency, but it does offer up to 30 or so miles of pure-electric driving range on a full charge. The new Sienna is a “regular” hybrid that doesn’t need to be plugged in, but can only drive in pure-electric mode for short distances before the gas engine kicks in.

2021 Toyota Sienna Platinum

2021 Toyota Sienna Platinum

The Sienna retains its available all-wheel drive in addition to front-wheel drive, but the AWD system is now hybrid based; instead of a transfer case and a driveshaft from the gasoline engine, the rear wheels are powered by a separate electric motor. The gasoline engine only powers the front wheels, and the hybrid AWD system can send up to 100 of the vehicle’s torque to the front wheels, or split the torque at a ratio of up to 20 percent front/80 percent rear in slippery conditions. The Sienna can no longer lay claim to being the only minivan available with AWD—the refreshed-for-2021 Chrysler Pacifica is set to offer it as well—but the Sienna will be the only minivan to combine AWD with a hybrid powertrain.

Toyota’s press release stated that the Sienna’s design team “thought carefully about how to combine the practical attributes of a minivan with the emotional desire for having a more personalized driving experience.” The exterior styling is a bit more assertive than before, with curvaceous shapes and pronounced bodyside wheel-flare bulges. The sporty XSE trim level gets more-aggressive styling touches, including dark-finish 20-inch wheels and unique front and rear bumpers.

Inside, a driver-oriented “Bridge Console” center console places the shifter and cupholders within easy reach, while creating a large open area below for a purse or other cargo. The available “Super Long Slide” second-row captain’s chairs are aptly named; they slide up to 25 inches to optimize cargo space or provide limo-like legroom, and can be equipped with an ottoman feature for La-Z-Boy recliner comfort. There is also a stowable middle seat for eight-passenger capacity.

Test Drive: 2019 Toyota Sienna SE Premium AWD

Sienna Bridge Console

2021 Toyota Sienna XSE

The Sienna wouldn’t be a modern minivan if it didn’t offer a lengthy list of available comfort and convenience features in addition to those decadent second-row seats. Among these are a 10-inch color head-up display, power-tilt/telescopic steering column with heated steering wheel, hands-free power sliding side doors and rear liftgate, seven USB ports, Wi-Fi connectivity, 1080P HD rear-seat entertainment system, 12-speaker JBL-brand audio system, and up to 18 cupholders. There’s also an available on-board vacuum cleaner, on-board refrigerator, and a 1500-watt inverter with 120V AC outlet to power camping equipment.

All Siennas will come standard with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 suite of safety equipment, as well as a new Rear Seat Reminder that alerts the driver to check the rear seat for passengers or cargo when exiting the vehicle. Available features include a digital rearview mirror, which can replace the regular mirror’s image with a digital display from the rear camera, in case passengers and/or cargo block the view; Toyota’s Driver Easy Speak feature, which uses the audio-system speakers and a microphone to transmit the driver’s voice to the rear seats; and a Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan, which provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna is slated to go on sale in late 2020.

2020 Chicago Auto Show: 2021 Chrysler Pacifica AWD

CG Says:

Today’s minivan market is populated by nicely executed family haulers that offer a bewildering array of features—the class leaders are close enough in overall performance, space, and fuel economy that the best choice for you might boil down to which features you value the most.

The Chrysler Pacifica offers handy Stow ‘n Go second-row seats that fold into the floor for unbeatable passenger/cargo hauling convenience, as well as the efficiency of a plug-in-hybrid powertrain. The Honda Odyssey offers versatile Magic Slide second-row seats that adjust side-to-side as well as fore and aft, as well as the ability to control vehicle functions through a smartphone app.

Though it too offers a broad range of desirable equipment, the ace up the 2021 Toyota Sienna’s sleeve will likely be its standard hybrid powertrain, and the fact that it offers the efficiency of a hybrid powertrain with the all-weather traction of AWD. Toyota hasn’t yet released pricing, so we’ll be curious to see how competitive Toyota can keep the Sienna’s MSRPs while offering the hybrid powertrain across the board.

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2021 Toyota Sienna XSE

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Written by: Damon Bell on May 18, 2020.on May 19, 2020.