Welcome to the Hooniverse News! As always, this is a weekly recap of the biggest stories in the automotive industry without the fluff or bull. This week: Aston Martin’s new Super Tourer is here, BMW hits the 5 Series with the Ugly Stick, Ford EVs will soon have access to Tesla Superchargers, and Lexus shows us more of the all-new GX.

Aston Martin DB12

Aston Martin unveiled the replacement for the DB11 this week, but it might not look terribly different at first glance. That’s because the DB12 (no DB13 I guess) is more of an evolution or a fine tuning of the previous design. Certain aspects of the car look identical to the last model, but there’s enough different here that it’s worthy of a new model name. The high-performance GT gets a new face, a new engine, and new tech, plus an interior design that’s far less busy and more elegant.

As you could have guessed, it’s called the DB12 because it has a V8 engine under that long bonnet. As with other engines in the Aston lineup, it’s borrowed from Mercedes-AMG and is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. This one is kicking out a ridiculous 671 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s more power than even the optional 5.2-liter V12 in the DB11 made. They say the DB12 can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 3.5 seconds and top out at 202 mph.

Design-wise, Aston channeled the DBS Superleggera with a bigger front grille and a redesigned front splitter to go with it. It’s different enough that it looks like its own thing, but the similarities are uncanny. What’s definitely DB12-specific is the new headlight design. And what’s practically a direct carryover from the DB11 and DBS is everything from the floating C-Pillar (which they definitely didn’t borrow from Nissan) on back.

The interior represents probably the biggest update on the car. It’s much more sleek and “open” with a slanted touch screen and plenty of physical buttons to operate everything. Notably, the push-button gear selection is gone in favor of this wild new invention called a gear lever. Overall, this is quite the improvement over the last generation of Aston interior designs that tried too hard to be like sports cars when the end result was just a bit awkward at times.

No word on a launch date or pricing info yet.

[Source: Aston Martin]

BMW Uglifies the 5 Series

BMW designers found themselves in a panic after having run out of cars in their lineup to ruin. Fortunately, the day was saved when someone remembered nobody’s done anything with the 5 Series in a few years. The end result is this, a fatter sedan with none of the elegance and simplicity of older models. But at least it doesn’t have shitty grilles like the other half of the lineup.

A range of new gas and diesel (Europe only) four and six-cylinder engines with a 48-volt mild hybrid system plus a fully-electric i5 model will be available at launch. Two plug-in hybrid models will join them next year. There’s been plenty of attention given to the chassis to improve ride quality and stuff. I guess it’ll still be enjoyable to drive too. The i5 is pretty quick because the top model has up to 601 horsepower and 605 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s pretty good I guess. And the 5 Series has a vegan interior as standard which honestly should be something other brands adopt as well.

But that styling though. It’s clear they took the same approach as with the new 7 Series in that they began by making the car as thick as possible to the point that it’s creeping closer to crossover territory. And the rest of it just looks like someone took the 2 Series Gran Touring, one of the most clumsy-looking cars I’ve ever seen, and stretched it over the 5 Series chassis. It’s like one of those weird ass amateur renderings of the next-gen 5 Series some kid on Instagram would use to earn clout actually became a reality.

And while the kidney grille is actually somewhat grounded in reality, higher-end models with advanced driver assistance features literally just have the sensor array strapped on to the front of the grille and blocking part of the design. It’s just so weird and awkward and stupid. BMW really doesn’t know what they’re doing anymore. When they inevitably ruin the 3 Series, they’ll well and truly be dead to me and I will no longer acknowledge their existence.

[Source: BMW]

Tesla opens up Superchargers to Ford owners

In EV news that truly shocked the industry (sorry), Ford and Tesla have managed to work out a deal in between one of Elon’s “how to make Twitter worse” brainstorming sessions. Starting early 2024, Tesla will open up its Supercharger network to Ford owners. And I’m not talking about a squatted F-250 with smoke stacks double parking at a station. I mean Ford EVs charging at Tesla Superchargers.

CEOs Jim Farley and Elon Musk announced it in a Twitter Space last night just as Ford confirmed the news via press release. Even then it was hard to believe. This is a massive deal. The one advantage that nobody could deny Tesla was their bulletproof Cybertruck windows Superchargers. Strategically placed around the country to allow for easier long-distance travel and with rapid charging times, it’s their crown jewel. Ford is the first 3rd party to be allowed access.

Now that’s not without some changes that may or may not be welcomed with some owners. Ford is changing their charging ports from the Combined Charging Standard to the North American Charging Standard. This war over charging ports is one that I was better off not knowing about, but in a nutshell, Tesla uses NACS and most others use CCS. Ford will offer an adaptor that along with a software update will allow them to charge on a Supercharger with an existing Ford EV. Starting in 2025, all new Ford EVs will be built with the NACS ports built in. Some Ford people have discussed the possibility of featuring both ports simultaneously, but that’s a long ways away and is subject to change.

[Source: Ford]

Lexus GX teased again and we like what we see

Lexus says the all-new GX will be revealed on June 8th and based on this teaser image, we like what we see so far. The body-on-frame SUV will clearly adopt a boxier and more rugged look with wide fenders to house some potentially serious off-road wheel/tire setup. The GX has been a long time favorite among the overlanding crowd (just ask Ross), and they certainly seem to be leveraging that reputation with this new model. I’m excited even if I’m nowhere near Lexus’s’sss target market.

[Source: Lexus]

What’s your news for the week?

So that’s all I’ve got for you this week, so now it’s your turn. If you saw anything, fixed something, broke everything, or otherwise did anything even remotely car related that you want to share with your fellow hoon, sound off in the comments.

Have a good weekend.

The post The News for May 26th, 2023 appeared first on Hooniverse.

Welcome back to the Off the Road Again podcast! We’ve missed you. The focus is on the off-road adventure, but we also dabble in all things SUVs, truck, and van, and maybe even some rally cars.

Join Ross & Chris for an exciting episode of the podcast featuring Paul Schmucker from Everyday Driver. We dive into the world of high-performance luxury vehicles and explore some of the most impressive rides on the market today, including the all-new Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro.

In this episode, we’ll take a deep dive into the Cadillac Escalade-V, the Mercedes-AMG G63, the iconic Porsche 928, and the latest addition to the Toyota family – the Sequoia TRD Pro. Learn what sets these vehicles apart from the competition.

But that’s not all! We’ll also discuss some of the most exciting trips and experiences that Paul has had behind the wheel, including trips to the Nurburgring and Spa-Francorchamps. Hear first-hand what it takes to tackle some of the most challenging and thrilling tracks in the world and get some insider tips and tricks for taking your driving skills to the next level.

So, whether you’re a fan of luxury performance vehicles or interested in the latest addition to the Toyota lineup, join us for an informative and engaging discussion. Don’t miss our latest podcast featuring Paul Schmucker from Everyday Driver, as we explore the Cadillac Escalade-V, Mercedes-AMG G63, Porsche 928, and the all-new Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro.

The post Paul Schmucker, Everyday Driver – Off The Road Again Podcast: Episode 157 appeared first on Hooniverse.

With the 2024 Toyota Tacoma dominating the headlines this week, there hasn’t been much else happening in the industry. So as I do occasionally, I’m opening the comments to you, the hoons that make this website what it is. There’s no use in digging up boring business news that will put everyone (myself included) to sleep. Nor is it worth covering some “special edition” that will be completely forgotten by the next quarter.

You all know the drill by now… not least because I’ve had to do this more and more often lately. If you saw anything, fixed something, broke everything, or otherwise did anything even remotely car related that you want to share with your fellow hoon, sound off in the comments.

Have a good weekend.

The post What’s your news for the week? appeared first on Hooniverse.

It’s normal to expect a new car to become better than its predecessor. That’s progress after all, right? But what if a new generation of a car was so objectively and subjectively better in nearly every way? What if what once was a car I loathed for being slow, boring, ugly, and obsolete, suddenly transformed itself to become something completely different? I spent a week with the new 2023 Toyota Prius Prime and my world has changed. This car has reinvented itself in the modern automotive landscape. And the results are pretty wonderful. 

Let’s get the technical specs out of the way. The 2023 Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid vehicle that combines a 2.0L 4-cylinder (150-hp) gas engine with an electric motor (160-hp) that creates a total system output of 220-hp. No word on total system torque but based on how unexpectedly this car hauls ass from a dead stop it is safe to say that figure starts with a two as well. The car weighs approximately 3,500 lbs and is built on the Toyota TNGA-C chassis architecture. The battery is a 13.6-kWh unit, however, a full charge from 0% indicated 11.6 kW of power added, which would indicate the usable battery capacity is somewhere under 12 kWh. The car can charge up to 3.5kW on a Level II charger which takes approximately 4 hours for a full charge from 0%, or roughly 12 hours plugged into a standard 120v outlet in your garage. 

Did you know someone who used to get bullied in high school but grew up and when you see them again a decade later they became uncomfortably attractive? Well, that’s the story with the new Prius. It stole the headlight design from a Ferrari SF90. Its windshield is raked as steeply as an LC500’s. The design is smooth, uncluttered and is about the most attractive egg-shaped car I’ve ever seen in modern memory. 

Luckily the car doesn’t just look good, it drives great too. I was surprised at just how well the car was not only damped daily driving but also how well the body roll was controlled. Steering isn’t communicative, but it is well-weighted with a good ratio that lets you turn to where you need to go precisely without much drama. The chassis feels solid, which lets the dampers and suspension sort out any bumps. It’s comfortable, and confidence-inspiring. I am dumb, so I took this car up to some canyon roads that I typically take sports cars to, and not surprisingly the 195-width all-season, low-rolling resistance tires don’t provide much grip. But the car didn’t fall flat on its face either. There’s a competent handling car, in there. 

Odds are you aren’t buying a Prius for handling, though, so you’re focused on finding an efficient daily driver and the new Prius Prime is the king of efficient cars that still carry a gasoline engine under the hood. In pure hybrid driving, I saw an average of 45-50mpg for most of my driving. However, I did take the time to charge the car up each night and sometimes out around the city when level II chargers were available. As such, I averaged 80mpg over my time with the car. I used 10.4 gallons over 831 miles. With $56.88 spent on gas and $16 spent on 64kw of power taken from ChargePoint chargers taken throughout the city, that comes out to $0.08 per mile. That’s cheap. Mind you, I did take this car on a few longer road trips with two days of my week with the car driving over 200 miles in a day. These longer travel days dropped my fuel consumption average quite a bit as on the other days I barely used the gas motor at all. 

I treated this car like an EV with training wheels. In the XSE Premium trim that I drove, the range is advertised at 39 miles with the 19” wheels, while the lower SE trim with lighter and smaller 17” wheels is advertised at 44 miles of EV range. During my drive, I averaged over 4 mi / kW, one day seeing as high as 5 mi / kW (though that was nearly all downhill). I found achieving 45 miles of EV range to be easy, even in the XSE Premium trim. On one occasion during a 44-mile trip from Ontario, CA to Pasadena, CA I made the trip with an indicated 14 miles of EV range left after I arrived which would indicate a total of 58 miles of EV range on that particular trip. That’s a wildly optimistic scenario with a 1000ft of elevation drop, but just goes to show the EV range on this car will easily get you above the advertised range and more than the average US daily commute of 41 miles total. 

One very cool option available on the XSE Premium trim is the 850w solar panel roof for $650. At first, it seems like a gimmick. But I’m happy to report it might be useful to some. I found the solar panel on several days during my week with the car added nearly 1kW of power over the course of 6-8 hours while being outside on a beautiful sunny day. That’s 3-4 miles of range added each day. Completely free, doing absolutely nothing. While I wouldn’t say that’s exactly Earth-shattering if you can add several hundred miles of pure EV range that easily every year, that starts to add up. It may take over 6 years or more to break even on the money you spent on the option, but the added range from doing absolutely nothing is just some nice peace of mind. Think of it this way: In a post-apocalyptic world, this might be one of the few cars that can get you around assuming the tires are still working. 

What good is all this solar charging and driving dynamics if the interior isn’t any good? I am happy to report the interior is for the most part fantastic for the price point with a few small caveats. Let’s start with what’s great: It is luxurious for the segment and filled with great tech. The new Prius is adorned with an assortment of soft-touch materials, great design, and in the XSE Premium, lots of leather too. The heated and cooled seats are comfortable, there is plenty of storage (a pair of sunglasses can fit in the #hiddencompartment), and despite the steeply raked A-pillars, visibility is great out front. While it might appear that rear visibility isn’t optimal, the digital rearview mirror available on upper trim levels is fantastic for situational awareness. The new 12.3” infotainment screen is snappy and effective. The only flaws that would prevent me from calling it “perfect” is the desire for a dedicated home screen and the placement of the volume knob over on the passenger side. The JBL sound system lacks bass but has a lot of clarity and great sound even with the volume turned up all the way with little distortion. The cabin is quiet, too. The experience makes it feel less like a Prius successor, and more like a new Lexus CT200h. 

Plug-in Hybrids seem like a weird compromise between pure electric cars and a regular hybrid. For today’s current infrastructure, however, it has perks from the best of both. Here in California, you can get HOV exemption stickers for EVs that allow you to drive in the carpool lane even if you’re driving alone and this car qualifies for that. At many shopping centers and places of interest, EV charging stations are more commonly located in optimal spots close to the entrances. It’s like VIP parking. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) may be cutting edge but the state of the charging network in 2023 is still not up to par with the convenience offered by gas stations. Ask anyone how their experience has been with Electrify America chargers on a road trip, and I am willing to bet money they roll their eyes. The Tesla Supercharging network is still the standard to beat when it comes to fast charging a BEV, but despite how expansive the network has become, some stations are now frequently experiencing longer waits to gain access to a charger for 15-30 mins on a road trip. 

What is so great about a Prius Prime? On a road trip, you can get in and just start driving without a second thought. No worries about route planning or dealing with charging stations that are still a deliberate thought for EV owners. Using almost exclusively electricity for daily driving but providing no hassle road trips make this a very versatile mode of personal transportation. Is gas $7.00 a gallon again when you’re trying to get to work? Just charge up, and you might still only see a gas station once every few months depending on how you drive. Regardless of what fuel is moving you down the road, the Prius Prime allows you to efficiently get you to where you need to go no matter what is cheaper or more convenient. You can make six Prius Primes for every average BEV when it comes to lithium usage and you’re burning about one-fifth the gas of an average car if you charge up enough. I would say this makes it a better car for the environment than a certain 9,000-lb EV with a 212-kWh battery.

As much as I have loved to talk about all of the reasons I fell in love with the Prius Prime, it wasn’t perfect and there were a few things about it where it really fell short. My biggest gripe with the car was the 3.5 kW charging speed. It’s slow, even by today’s standards when other PHEVs can accept 6-11 kW Level II AC charging speeds. At that standard, a simple trip to run errands or get dinner can turn into something that lends you enough EV range to cover a daily commute. This also helps free up charging stations if the car can top off in an hour rather than four. It would greatly expand the use of the EV mode on the car. As of now if you don’t have a charger installed in your garage, the case for the Prime over the regular Prius (that is nearly $4,000 cheaper) goes down significantly. My other big gripe with the car is interior space and packaging. Sure, it’s luxurious… but only for those under 6 feet tall and if you don’t have to carry much with you. I couldn’t even fit two checked bags in the trunk without first removing the cargo cover and then crushing one bag. If you’re an Uber driver, the deeper trunk of the regular Prius might fit the bill but I really don’t see where Toyota got the 19 cu-ft of trunk space that was quoted, it’s a shallow cargo space. 

This car does have some stiff competition, too. For about the same price as a fully loaded XSE Premium, you can get a Tesla Model 3 as they are currently cratering in price and if you are willing to dip into getting a full EV and don’t mind the build quality of a dollar store toy or the reliability of a 737 Max, it will ultimately be a better buy once you factor in dollar per mile cost. If all you care about is cost and efficiency, you can get a fully loaded Corolla Hybrid for about $6,000 less than a base Prius Prime XE. The difference in fuel economy would probably take you nearly a decade to recover the difference in fuel-saving costs. With higher interest rates in 2023, the more you spend on a car has a bigger impact on your payment and for some, it might not be worth it. The last hurdle to me recommending this car to you:  Dealer markups. Only 10,000 Prius Primes will make it to the US this year. I have already asked a few local southern California dealerships and you can expect to pay several thousand dollars over MSRP to buy some of the first few examples. If you pay a dealership over sticker price for a car that was designed to save you money at the pump, you are doing it wrong. 

So, should you buy a 2023 Prius Prime? That depends. Do you commute under 40 miles a day? Do you have access to a Level II AC charger at home or at work every day? Do you hate traffic and want a nice comfortable commuter car? Do you hate frequent gas station visits but don’t want to worry about EV charging potentially making you late for work or ruining a road trip? Do you want to make a Civic SI owner feel insecure at a stoplight? Yes, buy the Prius Prime. It’s awesome for making your life easy and doing it in style. Hell, I’d even say the car is fun. 

Should you lease a 2023 Prius Prime? Even better than buying. The new EV tax credits have a strange leasing loophole. Let me explain. There are a lot of new requirements for an EV to get the $7,500 tax credit many used to get, one being that it must be made in America. While this doesn’t meet that requirement (The final assembly is in Japan), any EV fleet vehicle will still receive this credit. It just so happens that leased vehicles fall under this fleet vehicle category. The $7,500 discount can be applied to your lease payment which may in fact make it closer to that of say, a Corolla lease payment. Factor in being able to buy the car at the end of your lease, and suddenly this becomes the deal of the decade. However, there is a time limit on this current credit as it stands and that could change in the near future. 

Ultimately, I really loved this car. It merges the best of the EV and gas car world and gives you the best of both worlds to make a car that is truly right for the needs of most people in 2023. This is a Lexus PHEV gaslighting as a relatively affordable Toyota. It’s overbuilt and shares sports car-like qualities with a car that gets world-class efficiency. It’s a fun driver’s car that can also take all the stress out of traffic. Accelerating from a stop light will put a smile on your face. If you want to dip your toes into the EV experience, I would highly recommend this car. There are few cars that come to mind that bring about such a low dollar-per-mile cost while providing such a comfortable, fun, and luxurious driving experience. I wouldn’t just say it’s a great value, this car represents what one hundred years of innovation and progress in the auto industry can provide to you that you’ll be happy to own for decades to come.

The Prius is cool now. Automotive glow-up of the decade. 

The post 2023 Toyota Prius Prime – The Greatest Glow-Up in Automotive History?  appeared first on Hooniverse.

After what was the most needlessly drawn out series of teasers in recent memory, Toyota has finally unveiled the long-awaited 2024 Tacoma. The all-new fourth-generation midsize truck is the last of the group to get a much needed redesign, but when you’re selling twice as many units per year as your next closest rival, you can afford to take some extra time. When deliveries commence later this year and into early 2024, it’ll arrive with modern styling borrowed from its bigger sibling, all new powertrains including a segment-first hybrid, and multiple off-road-ready trims including the brand new Trailhunter model.

New looks and the world’s biggest chin

Beginning with the styling first, it’s easy to see where designers got their inspiration. From every angle inside and out, it’s basically a smaller Tundra minus the obnoxiously large grille. But what it lacks in grille size it makes up for with the single largest air dam I’ve ever seen on a passenger vehicle which most certainly won’t impact its ability to negotiate challenging terrain, such as unmowed grass and transitioning onto a slightly steep driveway. Besides the Jay Leno chin, the high mount headlamps, integrated roof and tailgate spoilers, various intakes, and sharply chiseled body lines might as well be a direct carry over. It translates nicely into a smaller truck though, and it also gives us some big clues into what the next-gen 4Runner will look like as well. The upper body panels are all made with aluminum for weight reduction purposes.

And while other trucks are slowly taking away options for cab configurations and bed lengths, the Tacoma keeps some of those options alive. Depending on the trim level, you can opt for an XtraCab (extended cab) and a six-foot bed or a Double Cab with a five-foot bed. The range-topping Trailhunter combines the Double Cab and six-foot bed, and it seems that’s the only one which offers that configuration.

The cabin is also very similar to what’s in the Tundra. It looks far more modern now and is well-equipped with 8″ or 14″ multimedia touchscreen displays, a 7″ or 12.3″ digital gauge cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a wireless charging pad. Gas models have three times more storage space under the rear seat compared to the last-gen truck, and the rear seatback can fold down flat. They even added MOLLE panels on the center console and door panels for more versatile storage, I guess because they figured overlanders would appreciate being able to put them to use for once. Another party trick is an available ten-speaker JBL sound system, including an externally coupled subwoofer and a JBL FLEX portable speaker that docks into the upper dashboard.

A wide variety of trim levels are offered now – SR, SR5, TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off Road, Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter.

Strengthened chassis built for off-roading

It’s not just the body that’s new, the chassis is too. Built on Toyota’s TNGA-F global truck platform (same as the Tundra and Sequoia) and featuring high-strength steel with blanking and laser welds, plus strengthened frame crossmembers, it’s much more rigid than the prior generation. That allowed them to push the off-road capabilities with new and improved off-road models and features.

The strengthened body allows for safe mounting of rooftop tents and they’ve made it easier with integrated attachment holes for roof rack rails combined with a roof channel sealer to ensure a watertight seal. They also added an integrated high lift jack pint into the rear frame end. And while rear leaf springs remain standard on most trim levels, the TRD and Trailhunter models upgrade to multi-link rear suspension with coils for off road use. In fact, every trim level has its own suspension tuning to best fit the needs of its expected owners. And upgrade to the Limited trim and you’ll get new Adaptive Variable Suspension which adjusts damping forces as the road conditions change.

Last couple things to mention in the chassis department: it’s been fitted with electronic power steering, an electronic parking brake, radar cruise control, a brake hold function, and a revolutionary, ground-breaking new feature that will forever change the midsize truck segment and the auto industry as a whole. I’m of course talking about the Tacoma’s first-ever four-wheel disc brakes(!!!), which is something that came with my 2002 F-150 with fucked clearcoat and a rear window that won’t stop leaking.

Full towing and payload specs aren’t published yet, but what we know so far is you can expect up to 6,500 pounds of towing and 1,709 lbs of payload. This will depend greatly on powertrain and whether you’ve opted for an off-road model or not.

From a laughable powertrain to a segment-first

Now for some of the bigger news we were all eagerly anticipating, the Tacoma is finally using an engine developed this millennium. Every Tacoma will be powered at least in part by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine. Its power output depends on the trim though, as the baseline SR trim is capped at 228 horsepower and 243 lb.-ft. of torque. For all other grades, its output is a good 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque. That puts it pretty much right in the middle of its competition. EPA estimates on fuel mileage are not available yet and Toyota didn’t even try to speculate on those numbers.

But there’s one thing no one else has in their midsize truck right now – a hybrid powertrain. The Toyota i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain is the most powerful powertrain ever offered in the Tacoma, which honestly isn’t saying very much, but it’s still a big deal. It’s available on most models and standard on the TRD Pro and Trailhunter. It uses the same 2.4-liter turbo but adds a 48-horsepower electric motor integrated into the transmission and is powered by a 1.87 kWh NiMH battery pack. Total system power is 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. Toyota claims that’s enough power for it to ascend an 8% interstate grade without needing to downshift. Considering the gutless V6 and archaic five-speed combination that powered the last-gen Tacoma with the same level of enthusiasm as a teenager taking the trash out, this is quite the glow up.

Another thing no one else has right now is three pedals. The six-speed manual features auto rev-matching and anti-stall technology, but it plays with ever so slightly less power than the automatics do. Manual-equipped Tacomas are restricted to 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. But for the “no manuelle, no buy” crowd that exists in every forum and Reddit thread, here’s your next truck to buy used in 6 years.

Ready for adventure – TRD Pro and Trailhunter

If you want some off-road action in your new Tacoma, you’ll probably have to ditch that air dam the second you bring it home from the dealer. The fact that something which hangs so low is standard on all lower trim levels and something called the TRD PreRunner is a real headscratcher. But once you get past that, you’ll be able to enjoy a Tacoma that was made ready for adventure right from the get go.

RWD Tacomas gain an automatic limited-slip differential while 4WD models have an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high/low range and an auto LSD as well. An electronic locking rear differential is standard on the three TRD models and Trailhunter. The new and luxurious Limited grade has full-time 4WD with a center locking differential. They also added an available front sway bar disconnect that greatly increases articulation at the push of a button. The more hardcore Ford Broncos have that but I can’t think of any other pickup with that option (I Googled – couldn’t find confirmation). That’s a huge addition for the Tacoma, and it’ll even work with “Toyota-approved” lift kits.

The Tacoma that offers the best ground clearance and maneuverability is the TRD Pro. Ground clearance is 9.5 inches, running ground clearance is 11 inches, approach angle is 33.8 degrees, breakover angle is 23.5 degrees, and departure angle is 25.7 degrees.

More specs on that TRD Pro include red aluminum front TRD upper control arms, Fox internal bypass 2.5″ manual modal Quick Switch 3 shocks, FOX Internal Floating Piston bump stops for tackling the harshest terrain, and 33″ Goodyear Territory R/T tires. And making sure none of those impacts make it to your ass, it’s equipped with IsoDynamic Performance Seats that use an air-over-oil shock absorber system allowing for vertical and lateral seat movement. It can be turned off if desired.

The new halo truck for the Tacoma lineup though is the Trailhunter, an overlanding-ready adventure truck straight from the factory. Toyota worked with Australian-based ARB to co-develop Old Man Emu position-sensitive 2.5″ forged monotube shocks with rear external piggyback style remote reservoirs, a steel rear bumper, robust rear recovery points, and a bed utility bar with removable MOLLE panels. ARB engineers worked with Toyota engineers on-site for this model, so it was far more than just a “hey sell us some accessories” sort of arrangement. The OME shocks along with the 33″ Goodyear Territory R/T tires boost up the Trailhunter an additional 2″. That plus the high-clearance trail exhaust tip and low-profile high-mount Trailhunter Air Intake can be put to good use on the harshest routes. There are of course loads of underbody protection measures, such as rock rails and hot-stamped high strength steel skid plates.

No matter which Tacoma you get, it’ll be ready for just about any adventure you can throw at it.

So far there’s no word on pricing.

The post The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is finally here appeared first on Hooniverse.

Welcome back to the Off the Road Again podcast! We’ve missed you. The focus is on the off-road adventure, but we also dabble in all things SUVs, truck, and van, and maybe even some rally cars.

Ross and Chris discuss the BMW X7 that Ross tested. Ross also spent some time with the Mini Clubman S. Chris traveled with both the Chevrolet Suburban and the Toyota Sequoia to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

The post Colorado Trip, BMW X7 & Mini Clubman S – Off The Road Again Podcast: Episode 156 appeared first on Hooniverse.

It feels good to get in and push it in a car like the Porsche 718 GTS 4.0. That’s because the steering feel is excellent, the power is perfect for the platform, and the six-speed manual gearbox is wonderfully tuned. The entire package adds up to one of the all-time great driver’s cars.

[Disclaimer: Porsche tossed me the keys to the 718 and included a tank of fuel.]

The post The Porsche 718 GTS 4.0 is a nearly perfect drivers car appeared first on Hooniverse.

My 1986 Jaguar XJ6 was a fun car to own. I think it’s one of the all-time great sedan designs. The interior was comfortable. And having a Chevy V8 under the hood certainly didn’t hurt the ownership experience. Still, during my few years with the car, I only put a few thousand miles on it. Rather than have it sit around, I figured the time was right to move it on to the next owner, and to get it there I wanted to test out one of the online auction houses. So I sold my car on CarsandBids.com.

Before we dive into the process, I want to say that nothing about this was sponsored. I never spoke to Doug Demuro (owner of C&B) before listing my car or anything like that. The reason I chose Cars and Bids is that I like the engagement of the comment section on the listings, my car seemed to fit the mold for the type of car that would do well enough over there, and there’s no cost to a seller to list your vehicle.

To kick start the process, I reached out to a photographer friend named Mike Villa. He typically shoots weddings but I know he has a good eye and is skilled at what he does, and he also likes things that go vroom. We set a day and time, I cleaned up the car, and he set to work snapping the pics.

Once I had my photos, I went to C&B and clicked on the Sell a Car button at the top of the page. Once you do that, you have to enter some basic info on the car, provide a few photos, and then submit your vehicle for review. I got an answer back fairly quickly, which I believe is because the car is somewhat interesting. Cars and Bids said they’d be happy to list the car, which means I then needed to fill out more information, provide a lot more photos, and also provide some video clips if I could.

Cars and Bids assign someone to your account for the duration of the listing. You can interact with them via a chat window on the C&B site. The response times are great. And within a week, they had a draft of my listing ready for me to review. From there, it’s a matter of approving your listing, making sure all your stuff is uploaded, and then C&B works to figure out a day and time to start your listing. Typically these roll out in the morning in half-hour increments and then the auction runs for a week. And it’s a good idea to be available to answer and any all questions that arise in the comments.

I’ll be honest in that I was incredibly nervous to sell this car via an auction. Not because I put it out there with No Reserve price or anything like that, but because I wanted to make sure I listed the car as accurately as possible. It’s easy to walk through every bit of the good and bad with a buyer when you do it in person. Over the Internet though? I had a bit of anxiety that I would miss something.

Interestingly, though, I did have someone reach out and say they were local and would love to see the car in person. I was happy to oblige. And not long after, a father and his son were eyeballing the Jag up close. We fired it up and they drove it up and down the block. When they came out, I could tell them that the antenna for the radio doesn’t work, which is something I forgot to mention in the listing since I only play music through my phone. I could talk about the scratches a foster dog put into a fender when he got scared in the garage. And I could more easily talk about all of my personal joys and frustrations with this machine. It was great to see them smile when giving the car a closer look.

The real action, of course, happens on that final day and often in that final hour of your listing. Going into the last day, I was already sitting at a number I could be fine with in terms of dollar amount. I paid $6,000 for the car, originally. Right away I had to fix an issue with the cooling fans not turning on and then I had the AC system fixed. I swapped on the BBS wheels, which cost me about $1,200 if I remember correctly and then I also put on fresh Vredestein tires which were given to me for free. So with the auction sitting north of $5,000, I felt ok with losing a bit but not seeing the car sell for $1,000 or something like that.

Then it started to rise.

Bids get coming in and soon the Jag was sitting around $10k. I couldn’t believe it. My wife asked why I was yelling at no one here at my desk in my garage. I tried to explain what was happening. But the bids continued to climb. Eventually, the bidding stopped… at $14,000. My jaw was on the floor.

Behind the scenes, C&B quickly provides you with the contact information for the winning bidder and they provide a checklist for next steps. I was a bit surprised but rather happy to find that the listed contact number was the same one of the father who came along with his son to look at the car. And the car is for the son, who is excited about the adventure that comes with owning a Jaguar. Never has a sentence been more bang on, yet also gives me a happy feeling that they know what they’re in for.

They asked if they could pick the car up later in the week with a cashier’s check in hand. I said that would be perfect. So when the day arrived, I wiped down any dust, pulled the car into the driveway, and had the keys, original wheels, all of the paperwork from the engine swap, and anything else I could think of, ready to go.

I waved goodbye to the new owner… and immediately started typing various terms into the search bar on Craigslist and FB marketplace. I haven’t purchased anything yet. But I’m definitely looking.

The post I sold my Jag on Cars and Bids and it was a great experience appeared first on Hooniverse.

Hey, we talk about actual automotive news in this one! On the list of things we cover, we’ve got the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, Hyundai N Vision 74 Concept, Toyota Tacoma about to be revealed, Lamborghini Sterrato, and an R34 Nissan Skyline that sold for crazy money.

If you’d prefer the audio-only version, head to https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hooniverse or check us out wherever you normally get your podcast party on. We’re on Apple, Google, and more.

The post Hooniverse Podcast: Episode 364 – Actual Auto News? appeared first on Hooniverse.

Welcome to the Hooniverse News! As always, this is a weekly recap of the biggest stories in the automotive industry without the fluff or bull. This week: Porsche brings RS goodness to the Boxster for the first time, Ford finally gives us the new US-spec Ranger, some teasers from Lexus for two new SUVs, plus your news for the week.

Porsche 718 Spyder RS

As rumors of the next-generation Boxster being all-electric spread further, Porsche is unleashing the most powerful and radical gas-powered version yet. For the first time ever, the mid-engine roadster is getting an RS version just as its hard-top counterpart (Cayman) got last year. The goal was to build a Boxster with the most engaging and audibly pleasing driving experience imaginable. And a direct copy/paste of the Cayman GT4 RS in a Boxster with a manual soft top is certainly the best way anyone could have done it.

Porsche confirms the powertrain is identical to what was created for the Cayman GT4 RS. The Boxster Spyder RS uses the same 4.0-liter naturally-aspirated flat-six engine lifted from the 911 GT3 but slightly retuned to produce roughly 493 horsepower and 332 lb.-ft. of torque. Porsche’s insanely quick seven-speed PDK is the only transmission available, but anyone who’s used one can’t be too upset about that. 0-62 mph takes just 3.4 seconds. And there’s nothing between your ear holes and the wonderful noise it makes through a standard stainless steel sport exhaust system. Just like the Cayman GT4 RS, the Boxster Spyder RS has strategically-placed air inlets just behind the headrests for enhanced and unfiltered induction noise.

Aerodynamics are only slightly changed from what’s seen on the GT4 RS, otherwise the body is basically just like the Cayman’s but with no roof. It still has a standard carbon fiber-reinforced plastic hood with a wide air outlet over the bumper, two NACA ducts for brake cooling, and sideblades for enhanced downforce. But the front splitter is a tiny bit shorter in the Boxster Spyder RS and the big rear wing is replaced by a ducktail-style spoiler.

Other performance improving hardware is largely unchanged from the GT4 RS. That includes standard Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with RS tuning and a 30mm reduction in ride height, Porsche Torque Vectoring with mechanical limited-slip differential, ball-jointed suspension bearings, and 20-inch forged aluminum wheels. Porsche says they set up the chassis to have razor-sharp steering precision as well as agile and extremely neutral handling. But if you want to, the ride height, camber, track, and anti-roll bar can all be adjusted individually. One thing that does change though compared to the GT4 RS is the Spyder RS’s spring and damper rates which have been reduced to achieve a more relaxed, “characteristically convertible-style” set-up.

Things like pricing and launch dates have not been announced yet.

[Source: Porsche]

Ford finally shows US-spec Ranger, Ranger Raptor

One of our fellow off-road experts already covered the details surrounding the Ranger Raptor, which is coming to the US for the first time later this year. Go there for all the glorious details. But the Raptor wasn’t the only thing they talked about. The latest international Ranger that’s been on sale in ‘Straya and Southeast Asia for over a year is finally arriving in US showrooms later this year. We can expect the same all-new styling as we’ve seen already, a bunch of new interior technology, and widened range of EcoBoost engines to power it all.

The Ranger is built on a strengthened and fully-boxed steel frame that’s been torture tested down under. The wheelbase and track have been extended two inches compared to the last model. Towing capacity is nearly best-in-class at 7,500-pounds (Chevy Colorado just beats it by 200 pounds) and it has a payload capacity of 1,805 pounds (which seems to be class-leading, for now) – for the most part, those numbers are similar to what the outgoing Ranger could do, depending on equipment and specification. When it comes to body configurations, that’s been decided for you. Every new Ranger is a SuperCrew cab configuration with a five-foot bed and I don’t expect that to change, except maybe for future Ford Pro contractor versions.

What hasn’t changed is the standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder gas engine which still produces a respectable 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque along with a ten-speed automatic to put that power down to the ground. What is new however is the addition of the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 from the F-150 and Bronco which produces 315 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s not some special engine reserved for the Raptor or anything either (Raptor has a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6), you can get that in the regular Ranger. That’s a ton of power for such a small truck.

Moving inside, it’s just about the same as what we saw in the international truck last year. There’s a big screen for infotainment in the middle, two available digital gauge cluster sizes, and more storage solutions like an upper glovebox, bigger door pockets, rear storage bins under the seats, and fold-flat rear seat backs. The bed will be easier to access through side steps integrated into the body just behind the rear tires (which are wide enough to fit two feet). An available 400-watt power inverter with an outlet in the bed will prove to be useful as will the widened cargo area between the wheel wells which is now more than four feet wide.

The Ford press release did not talk pricing or launch dates, but I’ve seen a base price of roughly $34,000 mentioned and ordering books should open within the next two months.

For more info on the rad as hell Ranger Raptor, check out our earlier coverage here.

[Source: Ford]

Other coverage from the week

In addition to the Ranger Raptor coverage, there were also teasers from Lexus for two new vehicles – one of which is something entirely new. Lexus teased the TX, which our best guess has it as the fancier version of the Toyota Grand Highlander.

There’s also the GX, a replacement to their old-school body-on-frame 4WD SUV which might as well be considered ancient by today’s standards, however awesome it may be (so, every Toyota). The GX has earned a reputation for being a serious off-roader disguised as an upper class suburban family hauler – just ask Ross. So this could be a chance for Lexus to lean into that further and deliver a more rugged, adventure-ready SUV straight from the factory, as suggested by the mud featured prominently in the teaser shots.

[Source: Us]

What’s your news for the week?

So that’s all I’ve got for you this week, so now it’s your turn. If you saw anything, fixed something, broke everything, or otherwise did anything even remotely car related that you want to share with your fellow hoon, sound off in the comments.

Have a good weekend.

The post The News for May 12th, 2023 appeared first on Hooniverse.

A new day and a new Lexus teaser. This time it is the 2024 Lexus GX.

It appears that the front end will not have the extreme “Predator” face. The last generation of GX really leaned into this look and has turned some people away from the truck.

Potentially we will see the GX on the same architecture as the Sequoia, Grand Highlander, and yesterday’s teased Lexus TX. Pure speculation is that the GX will have the 3.4L twin-turbo powertrain. We’re basing that hypothesis entirely on the “342” being a part of the license plate numbers.

The rear badge and structure look similar to that of the current Sequoia styling.

We will have to wait and see for the actual debut of this SUV. It is definitely time for an all-new redesign. The current generation has been around since the 2010 model year. And the only major changes were a facelift to the exterior for the 2014 model year. The current GX is old. It’s older than the Ford Ranger which is finally getting a new model this year as well.

The post All-New 2024 Lexus GX Teaser appeared first on Hooniverse.

It’s happening! The Ford Ranger Raptor is finally coming to North America in 2023 with the rest of the 5th Generation of Rangers.

Purposeful Design

Let’s dive into the Ranger Raptor’s design. We’re talking confident and modern styling that’ll turn heads on the streets. Those LED projector headlights are like spotlights, while the signature C-clamp lighting adds that extra touch of flair. And oh boy, the grille is a bold statement with the now classic Raptor F-O-R-D lettering, sitting above an all-steel bumper. Integrated front and rear tow hooks are ready for action, and the LED taillights create a cool C-clamp link back to the front.

Check out those flared fenders with functional fender vents – they’re not just for show. They’re housing 33-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain KO3 tires on 17-inch wheels. And here’s the kicker – you can opt for beadlock-capable wheels with bead locks. What’s that mean? It’s like having an off-road cheat code, allowing you to run super low tire pressures for tackling sand and rocky terrains like a pro.

The Ranger Raptor takes it seriously, starting with a thick front bash plate made of high-strength steel. It’s like a shield for your off-road adventures. And they didn’t stop there – the engine, transfer case, and fuel tank have their own dedicated shields, ensuring you can go wild without any worry about damaging the components below.

Tech & Comfort

Step inside the Raptor’s cab, and you’ll find it built for performance. The sport steering wheel comes with cast magnesium alloy paddle shifters, ready for quick transmission control. And don’t miss the signature Raptor centering mark in a vibrant Code Orange color – it’s a subtle reminder that you’re in for an adrenaline-pumping ride. Plus, those six overhead upfitter switches make it a breeze to add and power up your off-road lights, gear, 12-volt fridge/freezer, etc.

Now let’s get connected. The Ranger Raptor has your back with features like a 360-Degree Camera and Front View Camera, giving you a clear view of your off-roading conquests. And for those remote locations, they’ve got you covered with Zone Lighting, ensuring darkness won’t stand a chance. Also, included is the class-exclusive Pro Trailer Backup Assist, because even when you’re towing boats and campers in those far-off places, the Raptor’s got your back.

Inside, it’s all about being informed and entertained. There is a high-resolution 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch center touchscreen running SYNC® 4A. It is compatible with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto wireless smartphone connectivity – no cords needed. And if you’re craving an audio experience to match your adventure, the Bang & Olufsen® sound system will rock your world.

Ranger Raptor Suspension – Time for Some Sweet Jumps

The real reason we are interested in the Ranger Raptor. The suspension of this beast is what makes it special. It’s not your average suspension. We’re talking about a purpose-built system, complete with lightweight aluminum upper and lower control arms. The rear suspension takes it up a notch with a long-travel setup featuring a Watts linkage and trailing arms, giving you the control and confidence to dominate off-road challenges.

The Ranger Raptor is equipped with the next generation of FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks. These bad boys are coilovers at the front and have piggyback reservoirs at the rear. What’s the big deal, you ask? Well, they keep the heat in check, ensuring uninterrupted performance all day long. No overheating means more off-road activities.

The Ranger Raptor is built on a beefed-up foundation. They took the already sturdy Ranger’s fully boxed frame and reinforced it to handle the punishing demands of off-road adventures. We’re talking reinforced front frame rails, front shock towers, rear shock brackets, suspension mounting points, and other critical areas.

FOX Shocks

The FOX Live Valve Internal Bypass system works its magic by adjusting damping performance based on the Ranger Raptor’s Drive Modes. There are seven modes. We’ve got Normal, Tow/Haul, Sport, Slippery, Off-Road, Rock Crawl, and Baja modes. Each one is carefully crafted to provide you with the perfect blend of on-road comfort, off-road control, capability, and ride quality. It’s like having a chameleon suspension that adapts to your every whim.

But wait, there’s more! These selectable drive modes don’t just tweak the suspension. They appropriately adjust the tuning of the engine, transmission, ABS calibration, traction control, steering, and throttle response – even the instrument cluster and touch screen get in on the action. And let’s not forget the active valve exhaust system, which can be tuned to several modes including Quiet, Normal, Sport, and Baja settings.

And for those tricky spots on your off-road adventures, fear not! The Ranger Raptor comes equipped with Trail Control. As a result, it’s like having a trusty co-pilot that manages the throttle and brakes while you navigate those difficult tasks.

Powertrain – Turbo Everything

The Ranger Raptor doesn’t just have an amazing suspension. Additionally, it’s also packing some serious muscle under the hood. We’re talking about a Ford Performance tuned twin-turbo 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine that’s ready to unleash mayhem on any terrain. Brace yourself for 430 lb.-ft. of torque and a best-in-class 405 horsepower – making it the most powerful Ranger ever built. The engineers designed this beast for performance on gravel, dirt, mud, and sand.

It all starts with a compacted graphite-iron cylinder block. This baby will handle the heat and deliver maximum power. What really sets it apart is the race-bred anti-turbo-lag system. When you’re in Baja mode and want that boost on demand, this system keeps those turbochargers spinning for up to three seconds even after you’ve released the throttle. All things considered, it’s like having a turbocharged adrenaline rush at your command, especially when you’re sliding the truck like a pro.

The mighty EcoBoost engine is bolted to a class-exclusive 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission*. Combined with an advanced four-wheel drive system, including a new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case, and front and rear locking differentials, the Ranger Raptor is unstoppable. It’s like having the ultimate off-road ally that adapts to any terrain and conquers it with ease.

Desert Proven

Now, the Raptor family is no joke. We’ve got the F-150 Raptor, F-150 Raptor R, Bronco Raptor (Braptor if you prefer), and now the Ranger Raptor. It’s like a family reunion of performance beasts ready to conquer the toughest challenges. And don’t underestimate the Ranger Raptor – a pre-production model that proved its worth by winning the stock midclass category of the Baja 1000 this year, completing the difficult course in 26 hours and 21 minutes. Afterward, just for kicks, it drove almost 200 miles back home to California. Now, that’s what we call a true adventure!

Opinion Time

I want some seat time! Also, I want Braptor seat time. However, this sounds like a sweet, sweet truck. Ford did not release pricing information yet. Which could be its largest negative. Higher car prices have not really stopped most buyers from placing orders for vehicles.

It looks like a decent formula for a great truck. What makes the other Raptors great is the suspension and Ford definitely emphasized that on this truck as well. I haven’t driven the 3.0L EcoBoost. But I did drive a 2.7L EcoBoost Bronco and a 392 Wrangler back to back. I loved the 392 and really enjoyed the 2.7. However, more power and torque from the 3.0 is a welcome party guest. I definitely think there will be some treating the Ranger Raptor as a party in the desert.

Colorado ZR2, Canyon AT4X. Tacoma TRD Pro and Frontier Pro-4X should all be on notice.

The post Introducing the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor appeared first on Hooniverse.

Lexus is teasing a new vehicle, the 2024 Lexus TX. No release date was shared, and just one image.

All I can see when I look at the name is the Lexus Texas, pronounced as “Lejas Tejas.”

My gut/sources tell me this is a Lexus version of the Toyota Grand Highlander. The rear structure is almost identical to the Grand Highlander’s C & D-pillars. Rear taillight shape is similar, and the up-turn of the bodywork above the corner of the rear bumper is close as well.

Some Gas Required

A fuel door indicates that at least some fuel is on board. Not a great location for an EV charging port, so more than likely a gas engine. Hybrid would potentially be the max of its electrification. A plugin hybrid would be a welcome addition, but not likely. The Grand Highlander’s Hybrid MAX powertrain produces 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. These are respectable numbers, but we have not seen mpg data for the Grand Highlander. Speculation is that Toyota is targeting 34 mpg from combined driving.

I look forward to picking up a Lexus TX on the pre-owned market. What’s not to like? 3 rows of seats, a hybrid powertrain, probably ~30+ mpg, and $80,000+ for the new ones. I’d love a depreciated Lejas Tejas!

The post 2024 Lexus TX Teaser appeared first on Hooniverse.

Welcome back to the Off the Road Again podcast! We’ve missed you. The focus is on the off-road adventure, but we also dabble in all things SUVs, truck, and van, and maybe even some rally cars.

Ross and Chris welcome Tim and Kelsey from Dirt Sunrise to the show to hear about their incredible journey traveling the world in offroad vehicles.

Join us as we delve into the amazing stories of their travels, including navigating treacherous terrain in remote locations, discovering hidden gems, and experiencing unique cultures along the way. Tim and Kelsey have seen it all and they’re here to share their adventures with you.

As passionate offroad enthusiasts, Tim and Kelsey bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. They discuss the challenges of traveling in different countries, the importance of preparation and planning, and share valuable tips and advice for anyone interested in embarking on their offroad adventure.

So, whether you’re an experienced offroader or just starting, this podcast is the perfect way to learn more about the exciting world of offroad travel and adventure. Tune in to Off The Road Again with Tim and Kelsey from Dirt Sunrise, and join us on a journey you won’t forget. Follow Tim & Kelsey on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

The post Dirt Sunrise, Tim & Kelsey – Off The Road Again Podcast: Episode 155 appeared first on Hooniverse.

The 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X is the slightly fancier sibling to the Colorado ZR2. Does it have the same off-road chops though? Absolutely, thanks to 33″ tires, Multimatic spool valve dampers, front and rear lockers, and trail cameras. We got to put it through its paces on the off-road trails near Asheville, North Carolina.

[Disclaimer: GMC paid for our travel and lodging for this trip.]

The post 2023 GMC Canyon AT4X – First Drive! appeared first on Hooniverse.

Ron and I wander through a few fresh auction results from Bring-A-Trailer. We discuss Ron’s potential switch-up of his automotive objects of desire. I tease a new project. Then we dive into your questions.

Links from the show:

Coyote-Powered 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback 6-Speed

No Reserve: 1984 500SL Mini Go-Kart by Lorinser

No Reserve: 2007 Honda Element SC

No Reserve: 46k-Mile 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Silver Arrow

Hoonigan-Modified 2000 Ford F-150 XL 2JZ 6-Speed

If you’d prefer the audio-only version, head to https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hooniverse or check us out wherever you normally get your podcast party on. We’re on Apple, Google, and more.

The post Hooniverse Podcast: Episode 363 – Silver Arrow FIRE SALE! appeared first on Hooniverse.

In case you hadn’t heard, Hyundai Motor Company announced last month that their luxury Genesis brand will go all-electric by the year 2030. To say that is ambitious is an understatement, but they are well on their way. My last two Genesis loaners, the last G80 and the GV60, were both EVs. This week we’re reviewing the 3rd EV in the lineup, the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70. Let’s see how it stacks up as a daily driver, and whether it’s $74K price tag is worth considering.

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 Overview

The first thing you need to know about the EV GV70 is that it will only be sold in select retailers in 22 states across the country. See below to see if you are in, or adjacent to, one of said states. Dealerships can be weird about selling outside of their state or region, as I found out trying to purchase an entry-level Defender up near Long Island, NY. They informed me that they prefer to only sell them to the tristate area, but they would ship one to Texas. Anyway, I’m getting off-topic here, moving on.

Once you acknowledge that EV GV70s are only available in half the country, you pick your powertrain (there’s only one) and move on to the package section. Genesis, like their Hyundai and Kia brethren, keep things pretty simple. You get the base Advanced or pay $6,800 for the Prestige.

As you can see below, our tester was maxed out with said Prestige package which adds stuff like:

• Nappa leather upholstery
• Microfiber suede headliner
• Heated second-row seats
• Heated steering wheel
• 15-speaker Lexicon sound system
• Head-up display
• 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster

Now, don’t expect to get a lot of color options. There are only four in fact, black, silver, and two versions of the same gray. And if all colors cost more money, that makes the base price technically a bit higher than stated, no?

All-in, including that extra Savile Silver paint upgrade, and you’re at $74,350, assuming that limited availability doesn’t come with an additional mark-up! Let’s get into the details a bit and see if it’s worth the MSRP.

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 AWD Prestige Inside & Out

Dull mandatory color upgrades aside, Genesis is killing it with exterior design lately. I’m not all-in on the split headlights, but I love how integrated it looks with the split taillights (which I love). Overall it’s such a nicely flowing design and, as many have stated, emulates some pretty high end stuff from Bentley, etc. which isn’t a bad thing. Genesis went with the huge luxo-SUV grille but it’s much more integrated and attractive than some stuff from other companies (hi Lexus!). Speaking of that, the wheels are a little blingy, but like a lot of other Hyundai and Kia designs they are interesting and unique so I dig em. Overall, the EV GV70 gets a high rating on exterior styling and it very much matches the price tag.

The interior is similarly well-designed and appointed, with high quality materials throughout the cabin. I’ll get my biggest gripe out of the way early, the color shows every speck of dirt. Check out that armrest in the top middle of the gallery above, even on a relatively low mileage vehicle it’s already pretty dirty. It’s hard to say how it would be for an owner to keep it clean on a regular basis, maybe automotive journalists are just dirty people, I’m not sure. I bathe regularly.

From a technology perspective, the massive 14.5-inch touchscreen is fantastic and easy to use. While Genesis fell slightly into the “oh damn we forgot the screen, just tack it onto the top of the dash” trap, the resolution and usability are both first rate. I did find it interesting that the smartphone connection was done via regular ole USB, while USB-C is available as a charging option. Not that I care, I’m just getting to the “OK pick one” phase.

From a comfort and convenience perspective, everything is just as it should be. The quilted leather seats are massively comfortable and the 37.2 inches of rear legroom is great considering the compact size of the EV GV70. Cargo capacity is 28.9 cubes with the rear seats in place, which isn’t massive, but it handled daily driver and hockey practice pretty well. Fold the seats and you’re looking at 56.9 cu. ft. which is more than reasonable for a compact SUV.

Cool feature – the button to open the rear hatch is built into the bottom of the wiper! It gives the rear an even cleaner design while keeping the button up high where it’s easy to push.

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 AWD Prestige On The Road

Out on the road, like most EVs, it’s quite quick. Genesis cites 429 horsepower and that electric torque hits hard and fast. Like a lot of EVs it starts to run out of steam as speeds increase, likely related to the 4,982 pound curb weight as well. There are multiple drive modes, but I didn’t notice a massive difference in driving experience between them. You see a small alert pop up on the bottom of the 12.3-inch driver’s information screen to let you know that it’s changed.

On the EV side, I think it’s kind of cool that there is a “driver-only” HVAC setting. I have seen that on some other vehicles, but it’s a practical feature when you’re cruising solo and want to save some range. Like other Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis EVs you can use the paddles to change the EV GV70s driving behavior. With multiple pulls you can move things over to one-pedal driving, a quick graph on the dash shows what phase you are in.

Summary

The plan to go all-electric is certainly ambitious, the G70, G90, and GV80 are all still petrol-powered. However, the lessons learned from the EV GV70, the EV G80, and the purpose-built all-electric GV60 have likely set the wheels in motion pretty well. There are a handful of other compact luxury options, from the class-leading Tesla Model Y, to the recently released Lexus RZ 450e (which I’ve just been driving) and the Audi Q4 e-tron. The Electrified GV70’s $65,850 starting price is higher than all of the other EVs noted above, but in the end this EV GV70 is pretty impressive. So, time will tell if it will take away some sales from some of the competition.

The post 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 AWD Prestige: Review appeared first on Hooniverse.

Hauling a big-bore ATV is no small feat for a light-duty pickup, especially when that four-wheeler is the monster Polaris Scrambler XP 1000 S. Payload ratings and springs suited for people moving as much as they are for moving mountains makes for a hit-or-miss experience in terms of how well the truck does with nearly a half-ton of added weight in the bed. But for a 2500-class truck, hauling a quad is pretty simple: Load it up, tie it down, and go. That makes the question for the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 Denali Ultimate, not a matter of whether it can handle the job, but whether the luxuries help justify the near-$95,000 price tag.

Is Ultimate worth the name?

In all fairness, I didn’t think the Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate was worth its $80,840 (as-tested) price tag. Naturally, that meant approaching the 2500 Denali Ultimate with skepticism, especially after having very recently spent a week with the near-perfect Ram 2500 Rebel. The Sierra 2500 Denali Ultimate had its work cut out for it in convincing me of its merits.

Let’s get the obvious out of the way. The 6.6-liter turbocharged V8 Duramax diesel engine and Allison transmission it’s paired to are both fabulous. Power is endless, shifts are reassuring, and the level of refinement is supreme for a powertrain that a few generations ago still felt archaic. In comparison, the aforementioned Ram 2500’s engine is substantially louder, but also a little more responsive. There’s no complaints with the GMC’s engine though; it’s well beyond what most truck buyers will ever need, which makes it laughably under-stressed even when loaded down with the heavy ATV that I put in its bed.

Severely underwhelmed by my menial test…

Speaking of, the truck only burned about one-third of a tank of diesel over the 250 miles I put on it, half of which it spent carrying the big Polaris four-wheeler. That’s excellent fuel economy, and while I suspect the gauge was a bit optimistic, I don’t doubt the 36-gallon tank would help the truck run well over 500 miles on a single fill. That’s excellent news for those long treks in the saddle with a trailer in tow. Better even is the torque, which makes climbing highway hills a non-event altogether.

As for how the Sierra’s bed manages the ultra-wide Polaris Scrambler XP 1000 S, it simply couldn’t have cared less. Usually, ATVs’ tires fit between the wheel wells, frequently scrubbing the sidewalls to fit. Due to the Scrambler’s extra width, we had to drive it over the wheel wells so the front tires would be parked back on level ground. No issue for the Sierra. Quad tied down and ramps stowed underneath the ATV, we could even close the tailgate to its halfway mark. On the road, the truck was entirely unphased by the weight. Unfortunately, visibility is compromised, as is to be expected, and understood that it will be such, but the digital rearview mirror becomes useless as the camera sits next to the third brake light, thus just giving you a view of the quad’s nose. It might help at night if you want to check to make sure your cargo is still there, at least.

Whole ‘lotta money…

As a truck, the Sierra 2500 Denali Ultimate is fantastic. The ride quality is even reasonably supple, it’s quiet at speed, and of course it does truck stuff brilliantly. But here’s the problem for potential buyers. Is the Ultimate package worth it? As a reference point, I built a similarly-optioned Denali on GMC’s website. Given, it doesn’t have the huge infotainment system of the topographic-themed interior, but the MSRP of the truck came to $87,210. A lowly SLT with as many options as can be tacked on runs around $82k. What the Denali Ultimate brings to the table just doesn’t cut the mustard in my book.

For example, the grab handle used for climbing into the truck is wrapped in leather, but only about half of it, which leaves cheap plastic exposed at either end. Then there’s the Bose stereo, which is quite underwhelming in how it sounds given the level of insulation the truck provides from the road. Worse is the stereo built into the Multipro tailgate, which simply sounds like a cheap speaker bought off Amazon. Aspects like these make you question the need for them at all, which is a bummer on a truck that’s otherwise quite nice and that costs this much.

I get the Denali portion; it does bring additional niceties that make it special and a better place to spend time than the trims below it. To justify the Ultimate package, you either need to really be a diehard GMC Denali fan or one of the National Parks its name is derived from.

In the end, the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 Denali Ultimate is best suited for those who spend a lot of time behind the wheel with decent weight in the bed or on a trailer. Whether the Ultimate is worth ponying up the extra dough for over a standard Denali is a question that prospective buyers will have to answer for themselves, as from our point of view nothing gained by stepping up to the Ultimate trim is worth spending extra for. As-is, the Sierra 2500 is a great truck, one excellent at effectively everything it sets out to accomplish, and it makes for an incredible ATV hauler.

The post The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 Denali Ultimate is an epic ATV hauler appeared first on Hooniverse.

Welcome back to the Off the Road Again podcast! We’ve missed you. The focus is on the off-road adventure, but we also dabble in all things SUVs, truck, and van, and maybe even some rally cars.

Ross and Chris welcome Mike & Dan to the show! Join us for an exclusive podcast episode featuring Mike Levine, North America Product Communications Director at Ford Motor Company, and Dan Edmunds, Technical Editor for Car & Driver.

In this episode, we dive into the world of off-roading and desert camping. Also discussed is the Ford F-150 Raptor R, Bronco Desert Racer, 911 Dakar, and more. Mike and Dan share their expert insights on the design, performance, and capabilities of these vehicles, and discuss how Ford is pushing the boundaries of off-road engineering.

If you’re a fan of off-roading or just curious about the latest advancements in the field, this podcast episode is a must-listen. So buckle up and join us for an exciting conversation with two of the top minds in the automotive industry.

The post Mike Levine (Ford Motor Company) & Dan Edmunds (Car & Driver) – Off The Road Again Podcast: Episode 154 appeared first on Hooniverse.

Welcome to the Hooniverse News! As always, this is a weekly recap of the biggest stories in the automotive industry without the fluff or bull. This week: Porsche will race Le Mans with a killer tribute livery for the 963, McLaren is reportedly working on a P1 successor, Ford may show the new Ranger in the US next month, Lia Block will drive the Hoonipigasus up Pike’s Peak, plus your news for the week.

Porsche will race Le Mans with special tribute livery

For the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Porsche Penske Motorsport will be sending their three 963 LMDh prototypes to the grid with special tribute liveries to commemorate Porsche’s rich history with the race. Penske Motorsport is running the works team for the Porsche 963 and Porsche loves a good tribute, so the opportunity was perfect. The design was revealed today as the FIA World Endurance Championship descends upon Spa-Francorchamps for the Le Mans dress rehearsal.

“This year, we are celebrating 75 years of Porsche sports cars. Motorsport, and endurance racing in particular, is a core element of our Porsche DNA. Therefore, the 100th anniversary of the Le Mans 24 Hours also has a special significance for the Porsche brand as well,” says Detlev von Platen, Member of the Executive Board, Sales and Marketing. “The color scheme of the three works race cars connects both anniversaries. Every color on the Porsche 963s has its own Le Mans history. And we are very proud of every single one of them.”

It features fifteen stripes in seven different colors, which flow from the front and flare out at the rear. The colors of each stripe relate to a specific car with an iconic livery, and I bet you can already tell which one is which. Orange is for the legendary Gulf design, pink is for the also legendary Pink Pig, green and light blue commemorate the “Hippie” livery as well as the iconic Martini design, and dark blue is a nod to the Rothman’s paintwork from the 80s. Red is heavily featured as it’s part of the base design for the factory-run 963s, but the red section in the middle is to commemorate the Salezburg-Porsche 917 from 1970, Porsche’s first overall winner. A yellow stripe down the middle pays tribute to the Porsche RS Spyder which saw great success in ALMS with none other than Penske. To differentiate between the three racing cars, fins on each engine hood have different colors: black for the No. 5 car, white for the No. 6 and red for the third No. 75.

As far as tribute schemes go, it’s hard to get any better than this. Porsche will be represented by numerous teams at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in both Hypercar and GTE-Am classes. The factory-run 963s will be driven by Dane Cameron (USA), Frédéric Makowiecki (France) and Michael Christensen (Denmark) in the No. 5. Sharing driving duties in the No. 6 sister car are the WEC drivers André Lotterer from Germany, Kévin Estre from France and Laurens Vanthoor from Belgium. Felipe Nasr (Brazil), Nick Tandy (United Kingdom) and Mathieu Jaminet (France) share the No. 75 cockpit.

[Source: Porsche]

Report: McLaren P1 successor due in 2026

According to the kings of the inside scoop, Automotive News (sub required), McLaren is working on a successor to the famed P1 hybrid supercar. The P1, along with the Porsche 918 and LaFerrari, were the first to show what hybrid power was truly capable of when engineered for performance. They flipped the notion of boring and dull hybrids completely on its head by achieving a level of performance no one could’ve imagined back then. Supercars and hypercars are a dime a dozen these days, but these were in their own league. And now at least one of those manufacturers is planning round two.

AN‘s sources were dealers who had just attended a special presentation from McLaren. They went on to say the car will feature another hybrid V8 powertrain, as the P1 had, but be much more powerful than the 903 horsepower the P1 had to settle for. Some other key figures they threw out there was that the new hybrid system would be 70% lighter than what was in the P1, which probably means a smaller battery. They also talked about 3D-printed suspension parts, something a few boutique manufacturers have already been experimenting on with great success. And because McLaren needs to continue to justify their midfield F1 team, it’ll have aerodynamic elements inspired by their rolling billboard of an F1 car.

And that’s about all there is to say about it right now. We’ll be sure to follow up on this in three years if anyone is still around or if the world hasn’t plunged into some new crisis by then.

I wonder how well that comment will age.

[Source: Automotive News via MotorAuthority]

Ford may finally show the new Ranger in the US next month

It’s been a long year and change waiting for Ford to talk about the new Ranger for the US market in literally any capacity. Since they unveiled the all-new Ranger and Ranger Raptor in the Australian and Southeast Asian market last year, the midsize truck war has been slowly rekindling back in America with a new Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon, a new Nissan Frontier, and Toyota teasing the announcement of a new teaser of the announcement for the new Tacoma. But Ford has been completely silent on the new Ranger stateside aside from a comment about how we’d see it launch here as a 2024 model.

But now Ford Authority says they’ve received a tip that it’ll debut next month. Next month is of course only two days away, so I guess any day now. Based on Ford Authority‘s understanding, the 2024 Ranger was scheduled to enter production at the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant around the same time in order to meet that whole ‘launch as a 2024 model’ deadline. No one seems to know if that’s still the case. But seeing as the world has known what this thing will look like (more or less, depending on market-specific design requirements) for over a year now, it’s not out of the question that we’d see a reveal for the US market just days or weeks before it enters production.

Either way, it’s a new midsize truck coming to America. Finally. And despite Ford delaying a truck rollout to the US by over a year, it’ll probably still manage to go on sale and enter production before we know what the new Tacoma even looks like.

[Source: Ford Authority]

Lia Block will drive the Hoonipigasus up Pike’s Peak

Last year, Hoonigan Racing Division and BBi Autosport set out to build the ultimate Pike’s Peak hill climb car in collaboration with Ken Block. They came up with the Hoonipigasus – a car with a really silly name but a dead serious attitude. It has insane aero suitable for high altitudes, 1,400 horsepower, AWD, and GPS-controlled suspension for the perfect calibration for every corner. But it never got to see its potential unleashed. Due to some mechanical gremlins they weren’t able to iron out in time, Ken Block never got to make a full speed run all the way up the hill. And with his tragic passing earlier this year, it looked like it would never go up the hill at all – obviously, the least of anyone’s worries.

But this week, Lia Block, Ken’s oldest daughter and rising motorsport star in her own right, announced she’d be taking it up Pike’s Peak this year. Not for any sort of timed run, but as a tribute run. In her Instagram post, she admitted she wasn’t ready to take on the mountain in anger with a car that not even her dad got to get fully acclimated with. And no one who’s familiar with the sort of cars Ken had dreamt up could blame her. But she did hint that it would be a way to get her feet wet on the legendary mountain – perhaps as a warmup run.

Whether she drives it anywhere near her limit or not, it’ll be an incredible moment for Ken Block fans and for fans of Pike’s Peak. And one thing’s for sure: when that car goes up that mountain, there won’t be a dry eye in the house. Go get ’em, Lia.

[Source: @liablock]

What’s your news for the week?

So that’s all I’ve got for you this week, so now it’s your turn. If you saw anything, fixed something, broke everything, or otherwise did anything even remotely car related that you want to share with your fellow hoon, sound off in the comments.

Have a good weekend.

The post The News for April 28th, 2023 appeared first on Hooniverse.