Category: Reviews

What kind of vehicle is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class? What does it compare to?

The GLS-Class is Mercedes’ biggest SUV, with seats for up to seven and a longer body than the boxy G-Class brute. Opulent in Maybach trim, incredibly swift in AMG spec, it’s a rival for vehicles such as the Cadillac Escalade, BMW X7, even the Bentley Bentayga.

Is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class a good SUV?

A capable and capacious SUV, the 2024 GLS-Class should post a rating close to that of the 2023 version, which scored a 7.5 out of 10 on the TCC scale. We’ll update this preview and score once we’ve had the chance to drive it. (Read more about how we rate cars.)

What’s new for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

With the return of V-8 engines to last year’s GLS lineup, the 2024 changes come primarily in an updated exterior and interior, meant to tide over the big three-row crossover SUV until it’s effectively replaced by the battery-electric EQS SUV. No firm date for the GLS’ retirement has been announced, though.

Benz has blended in bigger front-end air intakes with a gloss-black frame on the standard versions of the GLS, which receive a fresh four-slat grille. The revamp updates the GLS’ styling neatly, though the rest of its softly contoured two-box body remains largely the same. AMG editions still get monochrome paint schemes and 21-to-23-inch wheels and gain more badging and red brake calipers, while the Mercedes-Maybach GLS flaunts two-tone paint, optional 23-inch wheels, and a welter of logos: the air intakes brandish arrays of mini-Maybach logos, Maybach puddle lamps light the ground at each door, and one does the same at each sideview mirror. If a Maybach logo has somehow gone missing, chances are it’s to be found here.

Inside, the GLS’ central screen now accepts touch inputs, and offers three distinct displays—one with minimal information, one that looks like a conventional set of dials, and one that rings its gauges in red. An Off-Road mode turns the touchscreen into a virtual display of the ground below the GLS’ front end, thanks to the minor miracle of inexpensive HD cameras.

The base GLS 450 sports a 375-hp 3.0-liter inline-6 with 369 lb-ft of torque teamed with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that boosts output by 20 hp and 148 lb-ft as needed, to propel the SUV to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The GLS 580 swaps in a mild-hybrid, twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 rated at 510 hp, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque from the mild-hybrid system. It hits 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. The Maybach GLS pushes the same engine to 550 hp; 0-60 mph times stay the same. 

At the top of the performance range, the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 carries over with its outrageous 603-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8, with mild-hybrid add-ons and a 0-60 mph sprint of just 4.1 seconds. 

In many test drives of previous years of GLS SUVs, we’ve enjoyed their well-composed ride—though AMG versions are considerably stiffer in the knees—thanks to standard adaptive damping and an air suspension, as well as active roll stabilization that counteracts cornering forces with offsetting suspension stiffness. Though it’s decidedly more firm, the setup in the GLS 63 allows it to corner with eerie flatness. 

All-wheel drive comes standard, and an Off-Road Engineering Package for the GLS 580 remaps the standard air suspension for an additional 1.2 inches of ground clearance. The GLS can tow up to 7,716 pounds.

The GLS-Class SUV soars inside, where its S-Class-style interior seats families and totes luggage better than any other Mercedes vehicle sold in the U.S. Synthetic leather comes standard, but leather wraps around seats in other editions. On some models, a six-seat interior swaps the middle-row bench for captain’s chairs. 

On the infotainment front, two 12.3-inch displays nestle under one pane of glass, dominating the dash and controlling navigation or ceding control to Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Benz upsells a kit of advanced driver-assist technology that adds adaptive cruise control and automatic lane changes to the standard set of features, which includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and a driver-attention monitor. 

How much does the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class cost?

It’s likely the price will rise from last year’s base of about $83,000 for the GLS 450. The GLS 580 should check in at under $110,000, while the AMG version should list for above $140,000 with its standard heated and cooled front seats, panoramic sunroof, adaptive headlights, and Burmester surround-sound audio. As for the Maybach GLS, don’t expect much change from a $175,000 bill.

Where is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class made?

In Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

If the Telluride has an Achilles’ heel, it’s the 291-hp 3.8-liter V-6. While smooth and powerful enough to lug as much as 5,500 pounds, this big V-6 lacks any sort of electrification and thus guzzles fuel. It’s rated at just 21 mpg combined with optional all-wheel drive. 

Then again, the Telluride’s luxury-grade ride—even with the biggest wheel options—earns our nod. Good steering heft makes it almost fun to drive, too. 

The interior can easily swallow four adults in the front and middle rows. Teenagers will be happy enough in row three. The second row is offered with either individual captain’s chairs or a three-piece bench, too. 

Top-notch safety scores are augmented by a good array of crash-avoidance tech. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitors come on every Telluride, as do LED exterior lights. A surround-view camera system is optional and worthwhile given the beefy roof pillars. 

How much does the 2024 Kia Telluride cost?

The 2024 Kia Telluride should cost less than $38,000 to start, which nets synthetic leather seats, wireless smartphone mirroring, and good crash-avoidance features. The mid-level EX seems worth the price hike given it adds real leather, power tailgate, power-adjustable front seats, and a few other niceties. 

Where is the 2024 Kia Telluride made?

In West Point, Georgia. 

New last year, the Ioniq 5 started with a clean slate: new battery-electric architecture, new name, new look. Since then it’s been joined by the Genesis GV60 and Kia EV6 on its EV skateboard, but it’s no less distinctive. Hyundai pays design homage to its past with the Ioniq 5—which really looks like and should be dubbed the Pony. The 1980s-era hatchback shape has some exquisite details, from the crisp LED lighting to the deep V-shaped creases in its door panels. Inside it’s spanned by twin digital displays and doles out some of the same spare but sporty ethos, while also doling out great interior room. Riding on a 118.1-inch wheelbase, the Ioniq 5 has more space between its front and rear wheels than a three-row Palisade SUV. The tall-wagon interior has a flat floor and lots of elbow room for up to five passengers; it’s a shame the driver’s seat doesn’t go low enough for everyone to sit in supreme comfort.

Swift and sure-footed, the Ioniq 5 comes with either a 58-kwh battery pack with single-motor rear-wheel drive, or a larger 77.4-kwh battery pack with single-motor rear-wheel-drive and 225 hp or dual-motor all-wheel-drive with 320 hp. It’s silent, of course, and strong enough to hit 60 mph in 5.0 seconds with the bigger pack and rear-wheel drive—and to hit 303 miles of EPA-rated range in its most efficient model. With its sharp steering and very absorbent ride, the Ioniq 5 hits a sweet spot in handling that masks its size without masking any of the excitement generated by its battery pack. 

Charging that pack from 10% to 80% can take as little as 18 minutes on a 350-kw DC fast-charger like those at Electrify America stations.

The IIHS dubs the Ioniq 5 a Top Safety Pick+, and all versions come with adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, and active lane control. Blind-spot monitors and a surround-view camera system are options.

How much does the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 cost?

The base Ioniq 5 SE Standard Range costs $42,785 before any tax credits or incentives. That gets you a hatchback with navigation, satellite radio, cloth upholstery, heated front seats, a sliding second-row seat, and a twin 12.3-inch digital display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. We like the SEL with its standard wireless smartphone charging, power tailgate, and synthetic leather upholstery, for $49,785.

Where is the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 made?

In South Korea. 

Most models come with a 353-hp 5.3-liter V-8, while an upsized 420-hp V-8 is fitted to higher-end versions. An optional turbodiesel ups fuel economy from 18 mpg to 24 mpg combined, though it’s a costly upspend from the factory. All use a 10-speed automatic transmission to deliver power to the rear wheels—or, optionally, all four. 

The Tahoe has a firm but comfortable ride and decent handling for something that weighs as much as a small village. 

It’s big and pretty spacious inside, though the separate ladder frame means a heftier step-in and less foot and leg room than crossover models such as the Toyota Grand Highlander. Most Tahoes have seating for seven or eight, although a nine-passenger model with a front-row bench seat is available. 

Mixed crash-test ratings are a concern, but Chevy does fit a lot of crash-avoidance tech to all versions of its Tahoe. 

How much does the 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe cost?

Chevy wants upward of $56,000 for a base Tahoe. With four-wheel drive, leather seats, and a few more features, a typical Tahoe LT will set you back north of $62,000. That’s a better buy than the Z71, even though we can’t argue with that model’s red tow hooks.

Before you grab a Cadillac Escalade, check out the Tahoe High Country. It’s downright luxurious for $90,000 or so. 

Where is the 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe made?

In Arlington, Texas.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Prime crossovers haven’t yet hit showrooms, but it’s expected to carry over with relatively few minor changes for the new model year. This preview will be updated as more specs and data are confirmed.

What kind of vehicle is the 2024 Toyota RAV4? What does it compare to?

The top-selling crossover SUV in the country is a common sight thanks to its sporty looks, big interior, and wide range of trim levels and engine options. Shop the 2024 RAV4 against the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Nissan Rogue. 

Is the 2024 Toyota RAV4 a good SUV?

While a redesign isn’t far off, the 2024 RAV4 remains a strong overall choice. Its good fuel economy in hybrid form and its zippy looks help it earn a high score on the TCC scale.  (Read more about how we rate cars.)

What’s new for the 2024 Toyota RAV4?

The RAV4 moves into 2024 with the same low-slung, edgy style with which this generation debuted back in the 2019 model year. The squared-off front end and low-roof profile give off rugged vibes, which the RAV4 can mostly uphold in TRD Off-Road and Adventure trim levels. Inside, look for a busy, blocky cabin with a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen or an optional 8.0-inch display. 

The 203-hp 2.5-liter inline-4 that’s standard across the line provides adequate, if some grumbly, grunt. Better by far is the optional hybrid, which is quicker and can fire off 40 mpg combined. Yep, that’s right: economy-car mpg in an SUV capable of fitting five passengers and their luggage. 

The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid lowers its fuel-economy estimate to 38 mpg combined, but it can travel more than 40 miles on a full charge. It’s also the fastest and smoothest of the group, making it a commuting champ. Just try not to pay well over list price for one, as many dealers are wont to ask. 

The RAV4’s interior doesn’t break records for luxurious trim, but its layout is simple enough and it’s just so spacious. It’s also well-equipped with standard automatic emergency braking and other driver-assistance tech, all of which help it earn terrific crash-test ratings. 

How much does the 2024 Toyota RAV4 cost?

Figure around $29,000 for a base RAV4 LE, based on 2023 prices with an uptick for inflation, but it’s worth saving up for the $32,000 or so RAV4 Hybrid LE. Not only does it come with all-wheel drive, its nearly 10-mpg improvement may not take that long for a typical buyer to recover. 

The range climbs quickly through dressier XLE, sportier SE and XSE, rugged-looking Adventure, and genuinely rugged TRD Pro models before culminating in the not-that-luxurious Limited. 

Where is the 2024 Toyota RAV4 made?

In Georgetown, Kentucky, though plug-in models are shipped over from Japan. 

Five drive modes affect the steering, alter the damping, tweak the traction control settings, and adjust drive noises in the cabin. That last bit can be shut off.

Terrain mode raises the air suspension from a standard ground clearance 10.1 inches up to 11.9 inches. An Extract mode maxes the four-corner air suspension out at 15.9 inches. The Extreme Off-Road package comes with five steel skid plates running from the front bumper to the rear axle for a flat, protected floor. The package includes rock rails and a 17-view camera system with two cameras with built-in washers mounted in the middle of each axle. 

In our testing it got out of deep mud without much problem, but even a vehicle as capable as this couldn’t overcome the most sodden conditions on a steep hillside on terrain that was described as mashed potatoes. Still, the SUV climbs off-road better than the truck, thanks in part to a greater breakover angle of 34.4 degrees (32.2 in the truck) and a friendlier departure angle of 49 degrees (38.4 in truck). 

An Off-Road mode acts like a Baja mode, dropping the suspension to normal and limiting traction control enough to approximate a Drift mode. 

The standard rear-axle steering of up to 10 degrees helps it clear tight corners but also demonstrates the Hummer EVs biggest show-off feature: Crab Walk. Moving in phase with the front wheels, the Hummer EV can scrabble diagonally up and down the banks of a mud pit, a hillside, or a parking lot. At about 180 degrees of steering wheel input, it surpassed the 10-degree threshold of rear-axle steering, so if you keep turning the steering wheel it will actually turn, but not with the same tight turning circle of 35.4 feet if it were in Normal mode.

How fast is the GMC Hummer EV?

The three motors conspire to make 1,000 hp (830 hp in the SUV) and 1,200 lb-ft of torque; employing the Watts to Freedom mode, which lowers the suspension to a ground clearance of about 6.5 inches, the bulldog lifts from 0-60 mph in 3.0 seconds (3.5 in the SUV). 

In both cases, the nose lifts, it pins in your seat, and the high seating position and large proportions of the Hummer EV cause a feeling unlike any other vehicle. 

Beyond the straights, the rocking turns to rolling. It’s just too tall and heavy.  

One pedal drive and regen braking in the Hummer EV

Pending brake size and type disclosure from GMC, the Hummer does as good a job of braking as accelerating, thankfully. The truck pitches forward a bit more than the SUV, but in either case the grab is good.

There are three different ways to engage regenerative braking, which might be two too many. An L setting in the console shifter is the most consistent, but settings in the touchscreen can suit the driver’s taste. The one-pedal paddle on the steering wheel is more difficult to modulate into a stop; it’s best used for those last few feet of travel. 

Hummer EV Tow/Haul mode

The Tow/Haul mode monitors lateral G forces, and if it detects a sway event, it adjusts rear axle steering and could apply the brakes to increase the amplitude of yaw, according to GMC. We haven’t towed with either vehicle, but GMC rates the truck with a towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, and a payload of 1,300 pounds. Specs for the SUV were not ready at press time.

Our driving experience is limited to the 3.5T, which uses an effortless and smooth 8-speed automatic to deliver ample power, even without the launch control feature. The GV70’s four-wheel independent suspension system walks a fine line between being billowy and buttoned-down; Electrified GV70 crossovers have better damping thanks to a prodigious 1,063-pound weight gain due to batteries.

Despite the sporty feel, the GV70’s interior comfort is on par with rivals such as Lincoln and Volvo, both known for excellent seating. The GV70’s optional 16-way power-adjustable driver’s seat features massage function as well as bolsters and cushions that adjust automatically according to the selected drive mode. 

With more rear headroom than the larger GV80 and more legroom than the GV70, two adult passengers will be perfectly comfortable, though three across will be tight. The rear seats have a 40/20/20 split, and can recline or fold down to open up nearly 57 cubic feet of cargo room.

The exceptional list of standard safety features adds value with tech such as adaptive cruise control, active lane control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors. The options represent some of the best tech available across the industry, such as a blind-spot camera system and radar-based rear occupant sensor. You can even see images of your GV70 remotely via smartphone with the surround-view camera system.

How much does the 2023 Genesis GV70 cost?

The 2023 GV70 starts at $43,995, including destination. The 2.5T and 3.5T models are sold in Standard, Select, Advanced, and Sport Prestige grades. Synthetic leather upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats, a 14.5-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, navigation, and satellite radio are standard across the lineup.

The 3.5T Sport Prestige, $65,995, is at the top of the lineup with upgrades such as an electronic limited-slip rear differential for more sporty driving dynamics, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, carbon fiber interior trim, second-row heated seats, and a head-up display. Wireless smartphone connectivity is not available at any price.

The Electrified GV70 starts from $66,975. Genesis says it’s for sale in 15 states and qualifies for the latest iteration of the electric-car tax credit, but not all of it since its battery pack does not hail from the U.S., Mexico, or Canada. A $73,775 Prestige version has most of the gas-powered Prestige’s equipment. All versions have a 5-year/60,000-mile warranty with 3 years/36,000 miles of free maintenance, concierge service, and loaner vehicle.

Where is the 2023 Genesis GV70 made?

Most continue to be built in Ulsan, South Korea, while the new Electrified GV70 will be produced in Montgomery, Alabama.

It’s slightly less efficient due to the larger footprint of the CR-V. Wider, longer, and sporting a longer wheelbase, the new CR-V stretches into Passport proportions with vast cargo space and roomy enough seats to fit five adults. 

Exterior styling reflects the CR-V’s growth and the sedate LX and EX trims could easily be mistaken for the Volkswagen Tiguan with its high-shouldered hood and simple body panels. A broader front grille channels the mid-size Passport, while thin A-pillars nod to the latest Civic. The Civic’s influence carries over inside, with dark metallic trim and tasteful accents that instill a sense of calm. 

The Sport and Sport Touring hybrid models add some pop with black wheels and dark exterior trim elements.

The base 1.5-liter turbo-4 mostly carries over with tweaks to the turbocharger that let it hit peak torque a little earlier and extend the same efficiency on the CR-V’s larger body. It’s never quick off the line, but it’s capable of bursts of passing power when needed. The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) does a predictable but slurred job of approximating shifts in shuttling power to the front wheels or available all-wheel drive. Honda introduced standard hill descent control and a new snow mode but we wouldn’t be too daring off-road. 

The Sport hybrids make a bigger splash with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a pair of electric motors that boost total output to 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid is more responsive, more efficient, and notably more refined, and there’s no sacrifice for the benefits—which loom large, at 37 mpg combined with AWD and 40 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. For the first time, hybrid models can tow up to 1,000 lb.

The CR-V’s larger proportions increase cargo and passenger volume. The big front seats can swallow smaller occupants in comfort, and 6-footers can act their size in rear seats that have more than 40 inches of leg room. Excellent use of small and large item storage, including a tiered cargo floor, extend cargo room to 39.3 cubic feet. Fold down the reclining 60/40-split rear seats and hit Costco, retrieve John from the dog groomer, and pick up Fido from school with 76.5 cubic feet of cargo behind the front seats. 

Honda equips the CR-V with so many standard safety features that there are virtually no driver-assist options. The automatic emergency braking system comes with a wider field of view, adaptive cruise control works down to a stop, active lane control and blind-spot monitors help drivers avoid crashes. The IIHS bestowed its highest safety honor with a Top Safety Pick+ designation. 

How much does the 2023 Honda CR-V cost?

The base LX costs $29,705, including a $1,295 destination fee. It comes with a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and 17-inch wheels. For heated front seats and a power driver’s seat, as well as dual-zone climate control and more stylish 18-inch wheels, step up to the EX for $32,405.

The $35,005 EX-L adds a 9.0-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone compatibility with a wireless charger, and an 8-speaker audio system, but the true value lies in the Sport trim that comes standard as a hybrid for $34,245. All-wheel drive adds $1,500 on Sport and EX grades.

On the range-topping Sport Touring, AWD comes standard. It has the EX-L gear plus a Bose audio system, a wi-fi hotspot, and 19-inch wheels.

Where is the 2023 Honda CR-V made?

In North America at one of three plants, in Ohio, Indiana, or Canada.

What kind of vehicle is the 2024 Mini Cooper? What does it compare to?

The 2024 Mini Cooper badge adorns a broad lineup of retro-style cars that nearly defy comparison. Perhaps consider the Kia Soul and BMW X1, if you’re not dead set on a Mini. 

Is the 2024 Mini Cooper a good car?

For what it is, the Mini Cooper remains a right good time. It drips with personality, offers thrilling handling, and can even be somewhat practical in the right configurations. It’s a 6.0 out of 10 on the TCC scale. (Read more about how we rate cars.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPY_-gVbfSg

What’s new for the 2024 Mini Cooper?

Mini has brought back a previously unavailable Classic trim level that helps lower the price of entry slightly. Additionally, most versions are once again available with a manual gearbox; the transmission choice was dropped for much of 2023. 

The Mini Cooper comes in four basic body styles: two-door, four-door, extended-length four-door (Clubman), and convertible. Each has the same basic styling and personality, plus a lengthy list of styling personalizations. 

Base cars deliver decent go with a grunty turbo-3. The turbo-4 that comes on the Cooper S is worthwhile, though. John Cooper Works models provide track-ready handling and 228 hp, but they’re awfully expensive. Most models are front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is available on certain Clubman versions. 

Fuel economy ranges from a low of 25 mpg combined to upward of 30 mpg combined for most configurations. Premium gas is needed, though. 

These cars have expressive styling, but their interiors are hardly practical. Such is the price to pay for personality. The most useful choice here is the delightful (if costly) Clubman, which has an SUV-rivaling 48 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.

An 8.8-inch touchscreen offers standard Apple CarPlay compatibility and a decent, BMW-like infotainment system. Automatic emergency braking comes on all, but Mini charges extra for blind-spot monitors, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control. 

How much does the 2024 Mini Cooper cost?

Figure about $26,000 for a base Mini Cooper this year, but that’s just the cost of entry. By the time you add the turbo-4 in the Cooper S and even begin to scratch the surface with extras, the Clubman body that we prefer can top $40,000.

A JCW model easily adds another $10,000. 

Where is the 2024 Mini Cooper made?

In England and the Netherlands.