Category: Reviews

What kind of vehicle is the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD? What does it compare to?

The 2024 GMC Sierra HD is a full-size, heavy-duty pickup that shoulders up against other big rigs such as the related Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, as well as the Ram 2500 and Ford F-Series Super Duty.

Is the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD a good truck?

Capable, comfortable, and unabashedly block shaped, the GMC Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD come in three cab sizes, two bed lengths, two powertrain options, and essentially seven trim levels. In short, there’s a configuration for anyone who plans on towing 10,000-pound loads or more on the regular. It earns a TCC Rating of 7.0 out of 10, though safety and fuel economy ratings—where these trucks perform worst—are incomplete so the rating skews high. (Read more about how we rate cars.)

What’s new for the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD?

The redesigned heavy duty follows in the big and broad tracks of the related Chevrolet Silverado HD, but GM distinguishes them a bit more with two new trims this year in the AT4X off-road rambler and the ultra-luxe Denali Ultimate grade.

The blocky freight-train ends wear new bumpers, and a few new wheel designs grace the sides of this big boy, which comes with standard or long beds, as well as regular, extended, or crew cabs. Excluding the Pro, every Sierra HD gets the brand’s 6-way power liftgate as well as side and corner bed steps that make getting up and out of the beds a bit easier.

The big changes come inside, with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 13.4-inch touchscreen standard on all but the Pro models. Buttons and dials still simplify the controls, and a column-mounted gear shifter remains, so the Sierra 2500HD hasn’t gone all digital.

The 6.6-liter gas V-8 carries over, but GMC swapped out the 6-speed for the Allison 10-speed automatic also used on the revamped turbodiesel. With a new turbocharger and boosted output to 975 lb-ft of torque (up from 910 lb-ft), the 6.6-liter turbodiesel V-8 results in quicker passing moves and more power throughout the band. Towing peaks at 36,000 pounds for the 3500HD dually with rear-wheel drive, but even the diesel 2500HD with a crew cab can tow more than 21,000 pounds.

The crew cab models have more interior space than other passenger vehicles. The versatile seating has hidden storage underneath and storage pockets in the rear seat backs to let occupants lose stuff in a variety of places.

In addition to the standard trailering packages and the 14 available camera views, the redesigned heavy is safer on roadways for all users. Standard driver-assist tech includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection at speeds under 50 mph, lane-departure warnings, and automatic high beams. Mid-level and above trucks get blind-spot monitors, which are key for a vehicle this long, as well as dual truck and trailer side mirrors.

How much does the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD cost?

The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD costs $48,200, including a $1,895 destination fee. That’s for the Pro regular cab with a long bed and several towing features. It escalates from there with SLE, SLT, AT4, AT4X, Denali, and Denali Ultimate trims.

SLE and above grades come well equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. At the other end of the spectrum is the new Denali Ultimate, with features ranging from a 15.0-inch head-up display to a built-in Kicker audio system in the 6-way power tailgate. It’s $95,000.

Where is the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD made?

At the Fort Wayne Assembly in Roanoke, Indiana.

How fast is the Honda CR-V?

Quick enough to resolve any qualms you might have about hybrid performance. The Sport hybrid’s the quicker CR-V, in fact, thanks to a tech-savvy powertrain. Neither CR-V is truly quick, but the hybrid can scoot to 60 mph in under eight seconds thanks to a combination of a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and a pair of electric motors. With a total output of 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, the CR-V leans heavily into its 1.4-kwh battery pack and taps its power to smooth out launches and feed in torque when it doesn’t truly need the engine’s help.

The hybrid system does its chores without much fuss, and tweaking its drive modes—Eco, Normal, Sport among them—might be the only way you hear the crossover switch from electric to gas power. The CVT even offers simulated gear changes. Honda does pump some simulated engine sounds into the vehicle in Sport mode, and like so many of those fake noise generators, we wish we could turn it off.

Without the hybrid, the CR-V’s slower. The 1.5-liter turbo-4 kicks out 190 hp and 179 lb-ft, and offers three drive modes—Econ, Normal, and Snow—but none of them trigger the kind of acceleration that charms the Toyota RAV4 Prime or even a Ford Escape with the 2.0-liter turbo-4. The CR-V’s simply responsive, moderately gaining pace as the pedal’s mashed, and mostly quiet in terms of wind and road noise; it’s the thrash of the engine you’ll hear as its CVT passes through an infinite number of ratios, without much eagerness and without much reluctance, as if to answer the call for power with a simple, “fine.”

Thanks to a longer and wider and stiffer body, the latest CR-V has more ways to damp out road harshness. The suspension continues to pair front struts and a multilink rear suspension, but has stiffer subframes that let Honda give it more relaxed spring rates and damping. It leans like most crossovers, but resolves its ride motions with more maturity than, say, a Bronco Sport. The tires have plenty of sidewall, the steering has good on-center feel without much weight as it moves away from the middle, and the CR-V’s shocks know when to let it hang loose. It’s smoother but also more responsive, a magical combination that the CR-V just nails while rivals wander out on the ride-and-handling margins.

What kind of vehicle is the 2024 Cadillac CT5? What does it compare to?

The Cadillac CT5 is a sporty, sleek fastback-styled sedan that undercuts more expensive rivals such as the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Acura TLX. 

Is the 2024 Cadillac CT5 a good car?

The lineup is a great value across the board, and the CT5-V Blackwing model throbs with acceleration and grip. It earns a TCC Rating of 6.8 out of 10. (Read more about how we rate cars.)

What’s new for the 2024 Cadillac CT5?

Not much, just a new extra-cost paint option.

The CT5 lineup starts with the endearing yet rather basic Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport versions, and graduates to the CT5-V and fierce CT5-V Blackwing models. All share a fastback shape with a proper trunk, instead of a hatchback that had us fooled at first sight. The V versions don’t boast about their performance positioning like the old Cadillac CTS-V, but rest assured, there’s plenty of power.

Base models get a 237-hp turbo-4 that works fine for everyday use, though the twin-turbo V-6 is an obvious temptation, rated at 335 hp (or, even better, 360 hp in CT5-V form). These rear-wheel-drive CT5s all get a 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth, fast shifts. All-wheel drive is available.

The CT5-V Blackwing is a beast all its own, with a 668-hp supercharged V-8 that’s the most potent engine ever stuffed into a Cadillac. The 6-speed manual transmission is particularly delightful, but the 10-speed automatic makes it even quicker to 60 mph. 

All CT5s boast fantastic handling, and even the V versions can be comfortable daily drivers thanks to adaptive dampers. 

EPA ratings run the gamut, ranging from the mid-20s combined for the 4-cylinder to excessive consumption for the Blackwing. 

The CT5’s cabin is comfy though it lacks the special touches that spark delight in Swedish and German rivals. The 10.0-inch touchscreen is easy to use and includes convenient, reliable wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Upholstery choices from synthetic leather surfaces to several grades of genuine hides cover firmly-bolstered front seats. Rear passengers could use a bit more head room.

The CT5 plays the hits with standard driver-assistance tech, with more crash avoidance options on the menu. Cadillac’s limited hands-free Super Cruise system is available on higher-end models, including the Blackwing. 

How much does the 2024 Cadillac CT5 cost?

Based on 2023 pricing for the entry-level models, the CT5 lineup begins at about $40,000, including a $1,395 destination fee, but speeds to above $100,000 in the top Blackwing configuration. 

Even with all-wheel drive and select options, a well-outfitted Premium Luxury model can likely be had for about $50,000, but we can’t blame anyone for considering the sublime V models, which start at about $54,000.

Where is the 2024 Cadillac CT5 made?

In Lansing, Michigan. 

How fast is the Cadillac CT4?

It’s downright quick in some versions. The base model features a 237-hp 2.0-liter turbo-4, while the optional 2.7-liter turbo-4 increases output to 310 hp or, in the Premium Luxury and CT4-V trims, 325 hp. The 2.7-liter turbo-4 falls short of the German competition in terms of smoothness and responsiveness. 

The base engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while a 10-speed automatic provides slick shifts with the 2.7-liter turbo-4. 

The CT4-V Blackwing is even better, with a twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6 that produces 472 hp and 445 lb-ft of torque. It takes 3.9 seconds to hit 60 mph, and offers spectacular acceleration from any speed. For even more fun on the back roads, opt for the 6-speed manual with downshift rev-matching.

Underneath, all versions share a stiff chassis that balances agile cornering with a comfortable ride. The CT4-V adds magnetic dampers that moderate the stiffer tuning and stickier rubber, while the Blackwing ticks up a couple notches for track day fun. Firm, easily modulated brakes and spectacularly responsive steering emphasize the V models’ fun factor. 

As full electrification takes over, the CT4-V Blackwing is a notable parting gift from internal combustion engines.

What kind of vehicle is the 2024 Cadillac XT6? What does it compare to?

The 2024 Cadillac XT6 is a spacious three-row SUV that’s a good match for the Hyundai Palisade and Volvo XC90.

Is the 2024 Cadillac XT6 a good SUV?

It’s a decent choice overall. We like the 2024 XT6 for its plush ride and spacious enough interior. Cadillac includes good infotainment tech and offers the innovative Super Cruise system. Overall, the XT6 earns 6.3 out of 10 on the TCC scale. (Read more about how we rate cars.)

What’s new for the 2024 Cadillac XT6?

For 2024, the XT6 gets a small price hike across the lineup, two new extra-cost exterior color options, and new accent packages on the Sport trim.

The XT6 wears Cadillac’s latest styling, though it’s not as complex here as on its contemporaries, with a sporty nose that flows into a traditional two-box shape that culminates with a dull tail end. The cabin is as roomy as it is dull.

The entry-level turbo-4 produces 235 hp, which this 4,400-pound SUV may push to its limits. The 3.6-liter V-6 in Premium Luxury and Sport models is a better choice, with a 9-speed automatic transmission, strong acceleration, and a refined feel. The optional all-wheel-drive system is less appealing thanks to its front-wheel-drive mode, which ostensibly saves fuel but requires deactivation by the tap of a button in snow or other slippery conditions.

With the turbo-4, the XT6 rates up to 23 mpg combined, while V-6 models with all-wheel drive drop to just 21 mpg. 

The XT6 stretches nearly 199 inches long, which makes a big SUV with a spacious cabin in the first two rows. The third row is snug, but it’ll work for children. Cargo capacity behind row three is below average, but the huge cabin provides plenty of passenger and luggage space behind the first two rows.

Strong crash-test results are bolstered with plenty of advanced safety tech. Cadillac’s available Super Cruise system is the real charmer, which is expensive but enables limited hands-free driving on many highways. For a road warrior, it’s worth the cost. 

How much does the 2024 Cadillac XT6 cost?

The XT6 starts at about $52,000, including the $1,395 destination charge, but we’d budget another $6,000 for the mid-tier Premium Luxury version. With all-wheel-drive and a few other upgrades, you can keep it at about $64,000. 

Where is the 2024 Cadillac XT6 made?

In Spring Hill, Tennessee. 

Lexus hasn’t talked full fuel economy ratings yet, but expect a 17 mpg combined rating. That’s only 1 mpg better than the old V-8 rating.

A hybrid is said to be on the way, but Lexus hasn’t provided any details or timing.

The GX should ride and handle better thanks to a new double-wishbone front suspension, a multilink rear suspension, a longer wheelbase by 2.4 inches, and a 3.7-inch wider stance. Adaptive dampers will be available, but an air suspension will not.

The GX will seat up to seven passengers, but only in certain trims, and Lexus hasn’t detailed which ones, yet. Some GXs will have a 60/40-split second-row bench seat while others will offer second-row captain’s chairs. The available third row will be power or manual folding depending on the trim; it won’t fold flat into the floor due to being mounted on the floor above the solid rear axle. Lexus hasn’t released interior specifications for space for humans or cargo yet, but the automaker noted that luggage space has improved over the outgoing model.

Inside the GX goes digital with a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.0-inch touchscreen. The dashboard still features a horizontal design motif, but has been lowered for better forward vision. Off-road controls are grouped on the center console by the shifter. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be standard while a head-up display will be available.

Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control are standard. A surround-view camera system will be available.

How much does the 2024 Lexus GX cost?

Lexus hasn’t talked pricing for the 2024 Lexus GX 550, yet, but expect a starting price around $60,000 and fully loaded models to top $75,000. It will be offered in six trims, including Premium, Premium+, Overtrail, Overtrail+, Luxury, and Luxury+.

The 2024 GX 550 comes with up to 12 cupholders (depending on the trim), six charging ports (only four on Overtrail), a 120-volt AC inverter, and a 10-speaker audio system. A wireless smartphone charger and 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system will be available.

Where is the 2024 Lexus GX made?

The 2024 Lexus GX will be made in the automaker’s Tahara plant in Japan.

The most powerful and efficient TX will be the 550h+ plug-in hybrid that pairs a 3.5-liter V-6 and three electric motors for a combined output of 406 hp. Lexus hasn’t said how much torque this powertrain will have, but Toyota’s planetary-gear hybrid system steps in for shifting duties for the plug-in hybrid and all-wheel drive will be standard. 

Base turbo-4 models will be the least efficient with an expected EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. The 500h hybrid models increase that expected rating to 24 mpg combined. The efficiency king will be the 500h+ plug-in hybrid with an expected 30 mpg combined rating and 33 miles of electric driving range.

Inside, the TX dashboard looks similar, albeit larger and wider, as the NX and RX with an 8.0–inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.0-inch touchscreen canted towards the driver. A larger 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster will be available as will a head-up display. Both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be onboard. 

Every TX will feature three rows of seats with seating for six or seven passengers. The second row, depending on trim, will be a set of captain’s chairs or a 60/40 split-folding bench seat. Models with the second-row captain’s chairs can be optioned with a removable center console providing storage or easier access to the third row without moving the second-row seats. Behind the third row, there’s 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the third row and that expands to 57.4 cubic feet, and with both the second and third rows folded there’s 97 cubic feet of space for all the cargo.

Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitors, adaptive cruise control, and active lane control are standard, while a surround-view camera system will be available.

How much does the 2024 Lexus TX cost?

Lexus hasn’t said, but we expect a starting price in the low $60,000 range with top-spec models topping $70,000.

Charging for devices will come standard with seven USB-C charging ports and three power outlets. Audiophiles will take note of the available 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. 

Where is the 2024 Lexus TX made?

For the first time in history this Lexus will be made in the U.S., at Toyota’s plant in Princeton, Indiana. It’s the same factory that churns out Highlander and Grand Highlanders. 

What kind of vehicle is the 2025 Volvo EX30? What does it compare to?

The 2025 Volvo EX30 is the Swedish brand’s smallest electric crossover, slotting in below the XC40 Recharge. It’s smaller than the Polestar 3, Tesla Model Y, and Genesis GV60.

Is the 2025 Volvo EX30 a good SUV?

We won’t know until we drive it some time next year, but Volvo intends to market the battery electric vehicle as an affordable small urban crossover with a range of up to 275 miles. It emphasizes efficiency while not skimping on features, and sustainability by having the lowest carbon footprint of any Volvo ever built. Combine that with the design and low starting price, and it already appeals to us. (Read more about how we rate cars.)

What’s new for the 2025 Volvo EX30?

The EX30 looks the part of a new Volvo, with a pixelated take on Thor’s headlights binding the front ends of the small crossover with short overhangs. A tall, flat face stamped with the Volvo badge is split with a diagonal line drawing the tuck of the lower bumper up into the crease of the hood. Scalloped door panels run parallel with a high belt line that creates broad shoulders holding up the greenhouse. A black floating roof makes it look, in profile, like a more proportional take on the rounded BMW i3 but in classic Volvo wagon style. In back, split rear taillights climb up the sides, with a C-shape clamping the badge over the tailgate.     

As with other Volvo Cross Country models, the EX30 Cross Country rides a bit higher and has more of an off-road theme, with skid plates on the front, rear, and side, as well as black panels on the front and rear bumpers. It’ll ride on 19-inch wheels, though 18-inch wheels with distinct tires are available. If that doesn’t set it apart, the small Swedish flag on the hood should do the trick. 

The EX30 can be had with four interior “rooms” with distinct expressions and varying degrees of sustainability. Volvo noted a denim room composed in part of waste material from the denim recycling process. Recycled plastic made of old window frames, responsibly sourced wood, fiber made of flax seed, upholstery made in part of recycled water bottles, and other reused materials highlight the differences on the interior. 

A 12.3-inch touchscreen oriented vertically and flanked by vertical vents highlight dash. Volvo says it moved the glovebox to beneath the touchscreen. There does not appear to be an instrument cluster, similar to Tesla models. With a flat floor, the EX30 features a sliding center console with a lower storage shelf, and a storage box slides out to the rear so rear passengers can stow valuables. 

The EX30 will come in two powertrain choices, with a single-motor rear-wheel-drive model serving as the base model. A nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery chemistry reported to be 69 kwh in size promises an estimated range of 275 miles. 

A dual-motor all-wheel-drive model represents the biggest development leap for Volvo. This Twin Motor model has an output of 422 hp, and a quoted 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds, which is the quickest production vehicle ever. 

Volvo says the AWD version can DC fast charge from 10-80% in about 27 minutes at a peak rate of up to 153 kw.

Full dimensions were not available at press time, but Volvo says its low center of gravity and even weight distribution result in some “nimbleness” in the city.

Volvo rolls out its latest safety features with an automatic emergency braking system that detects pedestrians and cyclists. A new system alerts exiting passengers to possible dooring incidents from approaching cyclists, scooters, or runners. It also features an updated version of Volvo’s park assist that helps drivers wedge into parallel, perpendicular, or diagonal spots by taking over steering, throttle, and brake inputs. 

What kind of vehicle is the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia? What does it compare to?

The 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia is a small luxury sedan with a wide range of performance. Competitors include the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series.

Is the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia a good car?

Despite its flaws, the Giulia can be a blast to drive and exudes charm. With competitive pricing and great performance, it earns 6.4 out of 10 on the TCC scale. (Read more about how we rate cars.)

What’s new for the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia?

The Giulia’s core lineup goes mostly unchanged, though Alfa Romeo updates the front and rear lighting and the front grille design. With LED adaptive matrix headlights, new smoked glass taillights, and a new configurable instrument cluster, the Giulia’s look and feel go a little more high-tech.

Two new limited editions join the lineup, as well. The Competizione sits below the Quadrifoglio with great performance and a ton of luxury features, while a 100th anniversary edition Giulia Quadrifoglio is limited to just 100 cars across the globe.The Giulia’s curvy and svelte body has a distinctive profile with nods to the brand’s heritage in the shield-shaped center grille. The cabin is attractive yet reflects the Giulia’s lower pricing relative to its European competition.

The base 280-hp 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine sends power to the rear or to all four wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission in all models but the Quadrifoglio. That gets a Ferrari-derived twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 good for 505 hp. The base engine is quick enough for most, with reasonably efficient ratings of 27 mpg combined, while the Quadrifoglio is simply rapid.

The Giulia complements its speed with sharp and immediate responses that can feel manic through town but shine on winding roads. The cabin boasts standard leather seating, an 8.8-inch touchscreen, and driver-assistance tech like adaptive cruise control.

How much does the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia cost?

As of this writing, pricing is not yet available for the 2024 Giulia lineup, except for the new Competizione model. With rear-wheel drive, the Competizione costs $53,115, including a $1,595 destination fee. The all-wheel-drive model adds $2,000.

We expect pricing to carry over from 2023 with just minor increases. That means about $46,000 for a base Giulia Sprint with rear-wheel drive, or $48,000 with all-wheel drive. This model should satisfy most shoppers with amenities like leather upholstery, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Figure about $12,000 more for the Estrema trim, with cabin and suspension upgrades, or about $83,000 for the top-tier Quadrifoglio’s impressive performance.

Where is the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia made?

In Italy.

Full charging details haven’t been released yet, but the ID.Buzz will have a max charge rate of 170-kw and can recharge from 10% to 80% in 25 minutes. We expect it to have a driving range of just over 250 miles.

The ID.Buzz rides on the same MEB electric vehicle platform as the ID.4 crossover SUV. VW stretched the platform for a wheelbase of 127.5 inches and it measures more than 16 feet long overall. The electric van is as wide as the three-row Atlas crossover SUV, but stands 5.0 inches taller. 

While it shares the same front strut and rear multi-link suspension design as the ID.4, albeit retuned for ID.Buzz duty, it should ride better than its crossover SUV sibling thanks to the longer wheelbase. The upright driving position, massive amount of glass around the cabin, and nearly non-existent front overhang should provide an incredible view of the road and surroundings. 

Full interior specs with legroom and cargo space numbers haven’t been released yet, but the ID.Buzz will have three rows of seats. A second-row bench with seating for seven will be standard while captain’s chairs will be optional, taking seating capacity down to six. The second row can fold 60/40 and recline up to 16 degrees, and on models equipped with the mid-row bench seat the bottom can slide fore and aft up to 7.9 inches. Both the second and third row can fold flat, and an available accessory that bolts to the floor behind the third row can create a completely flat floor to sleep on. The center console mounted between the front seats feature divided storage cubbies and can be removed for more open space. 

Inside, the reincarnated VW Bus goes digital with few buttons, while the remaining controls are touch-based. A 5.3-inch digital gauge cluster resides behind the steering wheel while a 12.9-inch touchscreen houses most vehicle controls. Touch-based climate and audio volume sliders are ported over from the ID.4, but they are backlit in the ID.Buzz. A head-up display is available while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Everyone should be able to charge with eight USB-C ports, a 110-volt outlet under the front passenger seat, and a 12-volt outlet in the cargo area.

Every ID.Buzz comes standard with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitors, active lane control, and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view camera system and automatic park assist will be available.

How much does the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz cost?

Volkswagen hasn’t said how much the ID.Buzz will cost when it arrives in the second half of 2024. Expect VW to cash in on the peace, love, and nostalgia with an expected price starting around $65,000.

The ID.Buzz will be well equipped with 12-way power front seats that are heated and cooled, and double as massagers. The outboard seats in the second row will be heated as well. A heated steering wheel and heated windshield washer nozzles will be standard while a heated windshield will be available. Audiophiles will take note of the available 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. 

Where is the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz made?

In Hanover, Germany.