Driven Car Reviews

2023 Genesis Electrified G80 Delivers Quiet Luxury

It looks like any Genesis G80 (and that’s a good thing) but the Electrified G80 is, well, electrified. It’s quiet. It’s quick. The dual-motor drivetrain makes 365 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque shoots this luxo sedan to 60 miles-an-hour in under five seconds. It charges fast too with an 800V architecture. Tom Voelk checks out a fully loaded model (since it’s the only way the E G80 comes) and finds it to be as normal as an EV can be. Too bad it can only be bought in 8 states.

All-New 2023 Lexus RX500h F SPORT Performance Is The RX For Fun

All-New 2023 Lexus RX500h F SPORT Performance Is The RX For Fun

2022 Ford Bronco Raptor Is Ready For Anything

The regular Ford Bronco is an overachiever on and off the trails. The Bronco Raptor turns that ability up to 11. It’s got a whole new suspension, a twin turbocharged 3-liter V6 that makes 418 horsepower and the intimidating look that Raptors are famous for. The most powerful Bronco ever, it’s got what it takes to tackle anything you point it at. Just remember, it starts at $70,000… if you can find one. Tom Voelk takes it on and off road.

Hyundai Kona N Is Bang-For-The-Buck Performance

Don’t have BMW or Porsche money but want a performance machine that satisfies the driving enthusiast in you? Hyundai offers up the Kona N to scratch that itch. More power, bigger brakes, adjustable dumpers, an electronic limited slip differential and much more make it a blast to pilot. Tom Voelk looks at a loaded Kona N with 8-speed transmission because it’s the only way you can get one.

The 2022 Taycan 4 Cross Turismo Is Porsche’s Bargain EV

Porsche is about performance and engineering excellence, its vehicles are not meant to be inexpensive. That said, the Taycan 4 Cross Turismo is the best EV value the automaker offers. Feature for feature, it actually costs less than the base rear-wheel drive Taycan sedan. And it’s much more practical too. Tom Voelk drives a lightly optioned Taycan 4 Cross Turismo dipped in optional Chalk paint and finds it to be an excellent build for those looking for a long-range all-wheel drive electric v...

The 2022 Nissan Rogue Gets A Techy New Powertrain. Does It Work?

The 2022 Nissan Rogue ditches its naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine for a turbocharged variable compression engine with 3 pistons. The VC tech first appeared in Infiniti vehicles. The goal? Better power with increased efficiency. To see how well it works, Tom Voelk road trips from Seattle, WA to Bend, OR to check out the power delivery and fuel economy. He’s driving a fully loaded Platinum AWD model in Caspian Blue Metallic.

The 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor Is Affordable Off-Road Fun

The compact Maverick pickup has been a grand slam home run for Ford. To make it more appealing, the Blue Oval folks are adding an off-road oriented Tremor model. It adds an inch of  ground clearance, new shocks and springs plus a more sophisticated all-wheel drive system with a twin-clutch rear-drive unit with a differential lock feature. Available on XLT and Lariat trims, the package will add $2,995 to the price. Ordering begins in September, set your calendar.  

Toyota Crown Returns As A Raised All-Wheel Drive Hybrid Sedan

We haven’t seen the Crown in U.S. Toyota showrooms for 50 years. The 2023 model returns as a lifted sedan, because we’re all competing with SUVs for visibility now. Replacing the Avalon, all Crowns will be hybrids (there are two different versions including the turbocharged Hybrid Max with 340 horsepower) and all models get all-wheel drive traction. Tom Voelk travels to Austin, TX for a preview of this very unique approach on the four-door sedan.

All-Electric Ford F-150 Lightning XLT Has The Power To Move You

Worried that electrifying America’s best-selling vehicle will ruin the experience? The 4WD all-electric 2022 F-150 Lightning actually improves it for most owners. Tons of torque, wicked fast, and luxury car quiet, it’s a refined ride that tows up to five tons with a payload capacity of 2,235 pounds. Tom Voelk drives a F-150 Lightning XLT model equipped with the Tow Technology Package and the 320-mile Extended Range Battery in Antimatter Blue.

The 2023 Honda HR-V Grows Up And Adds Refinement.

Honda’s HR-V was always an affordable compact crossover. The second generation 2023 model is larger… on the outside. With a new independent rear suspension, it’s far more comfortable for road trips now. It trades the Fit architecture for a Civic-rich platform with better seats and best-in-class cabin. It does lose the rear Magic Seat and the wedgy design though. Tom Voelk travels to Stevenson, WA to check out the Sport and EX-L models, both with improved Real Time AWD.   

The Porsche 911 Turbo S Lightweight. Fast Meets Faster.

If the Porsche 911 is the sports car’s sports car, the Turbo S is the 911’s 911. One of the quickest cars on planet Earth, it’s twin turbo flat-6 engine makes 640 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Tom Voelk checks out a well-optioned 2021 model in Gentian Blue, equipped with the $10,340 Lightweight Package. It’s like leaving your fourth grader behind for a smidge more performance.

The 2023 Cadillac Lyriq EV Is The Future Of Cadillac

The all-electric Lyriq is the most important vehicle Cadillac has launched in a generation. This first-drive at the press event in Park City, Utah is a deep dive into its performance, ride quality, interior, interface and Ultium battery technology. Plus, there’s that awesome grille. Tom Voelk drives a Debut Edition 340 horsepower rear-drive model with a 102kWh Ultium battery pack and finds General Motors is finally getting Cadillac back onto “The Standard of the World” track.

Living With Ford's 2022 Maverick XLT Is Easy

The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup, that might be a better choice that a full-sized truck… or even a car. Affordable, fuel efficient and easy to drive, Maverick can replace the family car if you don’t need a lockable trunk. Tom Voelk checks out an XLT model powered by the 2-liter EcoBoost engine and finds that size matters. Also, a quick look at Maverick’s only real competitor, the Hyundai Santa Cruz.   Remember- The Maverick is in short supply. Chances are dealers will charge over MS...

Chevy Bolt EUV Gets A Huge Price Cut And Super Cruise

The Chevrolet Bolt EUV (which is kind of different from the Bolt EV) is affordable and packed with tech and features like Super Cruise handsfree driving. Now it comes with a significant price cut. Starting at $28,195, it’s one of the best deals in the electric vehicle world. Tom Voelk checks out a fully loaded Premier model with heated and vented seats, a punchy Bose sounds system and range of 247 miles.

The Updated 2022 Jaguar I-Pace EV Is The Driver’s SUV

The 2022 Jaguar gets a lot of welcome upgrades. It adds a lot of extra standard equipment, gets a significant price drop, and it charges faster. One thing has changed- It’s loads of fun to drive, maybe the best handling EV made. Tom Voelk checks out a well-equipped EV400 HSE model  (the only version available in the US) and finds it’s a joy to bend into a corner. If only it travelled a little farther on a charge.

The 2022 BMW i4 M50 Is A Wicked Fun Way To Electrify Your Ride

All the thrills of a BMW M car and zero emissions? That’s the 2022 BMW i4 M50. All electric. All-wheel drive. All grins. There’s 536 horsepower and 586 lb-ft of instant torque for your right foot to play with and it’s all enjoyed from a lovely well-crafted cabin. From the exterior that’s nearly identical to a Grand Coupe 4-Series to the silent powertrain, it’s a stealthy way to have a great time on twisty roads. The range? Well… that depends. Tom Voelk checks out a well-optioned M50 and find...

The 2023 Nissan Z Is A Gift To Sports Car Lovers Everywhere.

The 240Z is an automotive legend. Now, 50 years later there’s a 7th generation- the Nissan Z (no more numbers) and it pays homage to the best of what came before. It’s powered by a 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged 3-liter V6 and can be had with a 9-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. And well equipped, it’s priced at around $41,000 (with shipping, naturally). Tom Voelk offers up full driving impressions of a Performance model (no teases) from outside of Las Vegas, Nevada.

2022 Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge PHEV Goes Farther (And Quicker Too).

The More Rugged 2023 Kia Sportage X-Pro Is All The SUV You Need

This is a follow up to the all-new 5th generation Kia Sportage, featuring the more rugged X-Pro model with off-road tires and extra ground clearance. Is it a poser or a truly capable machine? For many, it really is all the SUV needed. Tom Voelk heads to Palm Springs, CA to see what it will do.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Goes Big (And Now The X-Pro Goes Off-Road Too)

To grab a larger slice of the pie from Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the fifth generation Kia Sportage gets a big redesign. Literally. It goes from smallest to among the largest in class with best-in-class rear legroom and cargo room. There's also a fuel efficient hybrid powertrain (a plug-in is coming), plus there's a new X-Pro model designed to travel rugged terrain to get you to the good mountain biking trails. Sportage is now a serious contender. Tom Voelk travels to Palm Spri...

Best SUV And Pickup Comparison Test. 20 Competitors Fight For The Mudfest Trophy.

Who makes the best SUV, crossover or pickup? Mudfest, an independent competition put on by the Northwest Automotive Press Association, is all about finding that out. In this two-day comparison event, 23 automotive writers assess 20 different vehicles in five different categories. They look at everything from a Subaru Forester Wilderness to a Rolls Royce Cullinan. And this year, the competition is tighter than ever. Tom Voelk show you how it’s done from The Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, ...

The 2022 BMW xDrive50 iX Is The Electrified (And Polarizing) SUV Of The Future

2022 iX xDrive50 review. If you want to haul the family in an eco-friendly way but can't do it by bicycle, BMW offers the all-electric iX xDrive50 SUV for your consideration. Built using a more sustainable way in factories powered by renewable energy, the iX seats five, packs powerful performance (516 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque), and is rated to travel up to 324 miles on a charge. It also sports, well, controversial styling inside and out. Tom Voelk checks out a well-equipped iX xDri...

The 2022 Mercedes EQS 580 EV Is The Future of S Class Luxury

There are few vehicles as silky as a Mercedes S Class. Now the all-electric EQS 580 is here to challenge that smoothness. With a silent purpose-built EV architecture, acoustical glass and the most aerodynamic body in the business, this luxury sedan is whisper quiet. The 56-inch Hyperscreen and impressive ambient cabin lighting looks straight out of Star Trek. And with 516 horsepower and 631 lb-ft of torque, this dual motor all-wheel drive machine is powerful too. Does it reach the EPA rated ...

The 2020 Hyundai Venue Is A Small Crossover With Big Value

The Nissan All-Electric Ariya Crossover Has A 300 Mile Range! (And Available AWD)

Nissan has unveiled the production Ariya crossover and it looks every bit as good as the concept shown at the 2019 Tokyo Moto Show. It about the size of a Rogue, but inside has the space of a Murano. And, the battery is liquid cooled! Tom Voelk takes a first look at the Ariya, including the innovative e-4ORCE all-wheel drive system that can help your passenger with car sickness. Ariya will be available in the summer of 2021. Nissan provided the running footage and photos for this video. 

2022 GMC Hummer EV Is 9,000 Pounds Of Bad Boy Tech

The 2022 GMC Hummer EV continues the excessive ways of the H1 and H2. The difference is, this fully electric version with 329 miles of range is stuffed with technology. Four-wheel steering, Crabwalking, 60 miles-an-hour Watts to Freedom sprints in three seconds plus an air suspension that gives it 16 inches of ground clearance. Tom Voelk travels to Phoenix, AZ to try it all with an Edition 1 Hummer EV pickup. Plus the latest version of Super Cruise handsfree driving.

The Acura NSX Type S Is Forbidden Fruit

The second generation Acura NSX is going out with a bang. The last 350 made will be Type S models. More show. More go. More Stop. Sadly they're all sold out. Don't forget this is a hybrid. A really fun hybrid. Tom Voelk checks it out at Sonoma Raceway.

2022 Volvo C40 Recharge EV Lets You Go All Electric. Safely.

Nealy every automaker offers an electric car nowadays. Volvo’s second full EV is the C40 Recharge. Similar to the XC40 Recharge, it drops the X and the squared-off back end. C30 has more of a coupe silhouette. The interior is rich in recycled materials and it’s packed with the newest interface that runs the Android Automotive user interface. How does its range and charge speed compare to other modern EVs? Tom Voelk travels to Palm Springs, CA to check one out in Fjord Blu . And true to Volvo...

2022 Acura MDX Type S Is An Asphalt Hauling Machine That’s Good For Hauling The Family

Hard working parents deserve a little fun. The 2022 Acura MDX Type S delivers driving excellence plus a lot of people and cargo too. Seating up to seven, the Type S improves on the already impressive MDX with true torque vectoring SH-AWD. There’s more power from a new turbocharged V6, air suspension (an Acura first) and adaptive dampers (an MDX first). For audiophiles, the new ELS Studio 3D Signature sound system could be the best audio in any vehicle. Tom Voelk checks out a MDX Type S Advan...

The 2022 Kia EV6 GT-Line Is A Brilliant Mainstream Electric Crossover

The all-new Kia EV6 is the first purpose-built electric car from the brand. Sharing its E-GMP platform with Hyundai Inoniq5 (but little else), the EV6 is available with two battery sizes in rear and all-wheel drive. The “Opposites Unite” design language turns heads, the cabin has unique styling featuring recycled materials and in moderate temperatures, it should easily hit it’s 309-mile range. Tom Voelk checks out a well equipped GT-Line rear wheel drive and finds it fun to drive and ready t...

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Has Something For Everyone (If You Can Find One)

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in such a wide variety of trims, powertrains and even sizes, there’s one for almost every want and need. From basic to luxurious, the Grand Cherokee covers all the bases. There’s even an audiophile McIntosh sound system. No wonder Jeep has sold over 7,000,000 of them over the years. Tom Voelk checks out a V6 Overland 4x4 with the Off-Road Package with a tow rating of 6,200 pounds and finds it to be a good choice for families that want to explore the ...

2022 Jaguar F-Type P450 Is The Snarling V8 Sports Coupe That's Off Your Radar

2022 Jaguar F-Type P450 Is The Snarling V8 Sports Coupe That's Off Your Radar

2022 Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing Is The Brand At Its Best

For years, Cadillac V cars were a curiosity. Hotrod performance from the luxury brand was unexpected fun. But the Cadillac CT5 V-Series Blackwing is another best-in-class performer and it’s lofty performance is no longer an anomaly. It begs the question- Is Cadillac a better performance brand than a luxury marque? How does it compare to the CT4 V Blackwing? Does it compete with Audi RS5, BMW M5, Alfa Romeo Giulia Qudrafoglio, and Mercedes AMG C 63 S? Tom Voelk answers those questions and mor...

2022 Audi RS e-tron GT Is A Powerful Reason To Switch To An Electric Vehicle.

Switching from gasoline to electric is an easy decision if you’re shopping the 2022 Audi e-tron GT. And the high-performance RS is an even easier sell, if you have the money. It looks great, has terrific range, excellent fast charging speed and looks, well, like an Audi. It’s based on the same architecture as Porsche’s Taycan and shares some of its goodness. But the e-tron GT has its own appeal and character. It competes with Tesla Model S, Lucid Air and Mercedes EQS. Tom Voelk takes a look ...

The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid Is The Perfect Electrified SUV. For Some.

Pure electric vehicles don’t work for everyone. The Ford Escape plug-in hybrid does. The concept is simple enough, charge the 14.4 kWH battery and it’s fully electric for 37 miles. After that it defaults to a regular hybrid with an EPA rated average of 40 MPG. And the Escape PHEV is a useful crossover that does the chores well. Fun to drive too. But if you want all-wheel drive with your plug-in….  maybe visit a Toyota dealership for a RAV4 Prime or get Escape’s fancy sister, the Corsair Gran...

2023 Toyota Sequoia Is Reborn As A Hybrid SUV

Because there’s a new Tundra pickup, it only makes sense that Toyota is rolling out an all-new Sequoia. The 2023 model replaces the second-generation that’s as old as its namesake. And it’s a hybrid now! The only powertrain is the i-Force Max twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor sandwiched in between it and the 10-speed transmission. With 3-rows it’ll carry up to eight adults (though word is the 2nd row does not slide fore and after and headroom in the 3rd row is reduced). The back row of th...

The 2022 Infiniti QX60 SUV Is Exactly What The Brand Needs

No doubt, the 2022 Infiniti QX60 is a big improvement over the outgoing model. A 9-speed transmission replaces the continuously variable unit. The user interface is a big step forward. The design, inside and out is fresh and up to date. Tom Voelk checks out a fully optioned Autograph model and finds that Infiniti’s new approach is successful. Mostly. Looking at you big shiny things in back. And yes, it will haul the whole family.

Ford’s 2022 Bronco Raptor Is Real, And REALLY Capable.

The wait is finally over! Ford has spilled the details on the new Bronco Raptor that will be available to order in March of 2022. The Bronco Raptor is based on the 4-door model but heavily modified. There’s over 400 horsepower from the twin turbo V6 EcoBoost engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, standard 37-inch tires and a beefed-up… well, everything is toughened, improved and reinforced. Tom Voelk has all the details on the Ford Bronco Raptor and why you might want one. Especially if ...

Ford’s 2022 Bronco Raptor Is Real, And REALLY Capable.

The wait is finally over! Ford has spilled the details on the new Bronco Raptor that will be available to order in March of 2022. The Bronco Raptor is based on the 4-door model but heavily modified. There’s over 400 horsepower from the twin turbo V6 EcoBoost engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, standard 37-inch tires and a beefed-up… well, everything is toughened, improved and reinforced. Tom Voelk has all the details on the Ford Bronco Raptor and why you might want one. Especially if ...

2022 Cadillac CT4 V Blackwing Is Black Art Performance

The 2022 Cadillac CT4 V Blackwing is what happens when a wallflower sedan gets infused with superpowers. The twin-turbo V6 belts out 472 horsepower. The Brembo brakes will stop a train. And when it’s not slicing up a track, the Blackwing is a docile grocery getter. All of that and it’s available with one of the best manual 6-speed transmissions on the planet (or choose a 10-speed automatic). Tom Voelk checks out a well-equipped V Blackwing on an empty backroad and finds General Motors doesn’...

2022 Lexus ES 300h F Sport Review. Lots Of Show, Not As Much Go.

The 2022 Lexus ES 300h F Sport sedan is designed to appeal to younger and more diverse buyers. And it’s a handsome hybrid outside and in. Without sacrificing any Lexus polish, it keeps the brand’s promise of comfort and quietness. Gets 44 miles to the gallon too. Just don’t think it’ll pin you against the seat. Automotive specialist Tom Voelk checks out a well-equipped model in a week all-wheel drive would be handy. Or snow tires at the very least.     

The All-Wheel Drive Volkswagen ID.4 Is Chill In The Snow

Volkswagen’s ID.4 electric vehicle is now available with all-wheel drive and it’s amazing how much difference an extra motor can make. It adds much more power and extra traction, perfect for a winter snow storm that hit Seattle on Christmas day. Automotive specialist Tom Voelk takes a Pro S AWD out onto the slick hilly streets of the Emerald City to see if an EV can handle the Pacific Northwest’s nasty mix of ice and snow. And don’t forget the ID.4 isn’t just the most affordable AWD EV, it’s...

How Ford Built Maverick So You Can Make It Uniquely Yours

Ford’s new Maverick compact pickup is turning out to be a smash hit. One big reason? Flexibility. The engineers designed the affordable trucklette from the ground up to be easily customized by owners. Want to install an air compressor or LED lighting in the bed. Easy. Need to haul bikes but can’t afford an expensive rack? Ford has easy-to-follow instructions on how to build one on a budget. And it tows up to two tons. With respect to Paul Simon, there must be 50 ways to hack your Maverick. T...

The New Lexus Interface Is Better In Every Way. Here’s Why…

For years, the user interface that Lexus offered depended on an unloved trackpad without any kind of touchscreen. It was… well, not good. So Toyota Connected Services engineers started from scratch and designed an all-new version in-house from it’s Plano, Texas headquarters . The result is unimaginatively called Lexus Interface, but manages to be a much better experience. A voice activated system much like Siri and Google Assistant, there isn’t really much of a home screen. The much-loathed ...

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain Is Bold Statement In An SUV Filled World

Many car buyers have shifted to SUVs to haul the family. Looking to stand out from the pack? The Mercedes E450 All-Terrain is the sleekest luxury sport ute money can buy. Okay, it’s a station wagon. But it offers all the utility of an SUV in a package that’s easier to load. And, it runs with a mild hybrid system. Tom Voelk checks out a well-equipped 2021 model and ponders the question- when did station wagons become the radical choice?

The Best Cars And Trucks Of 2021. And Tom Turns It Up To 11.

2021 was a great year for vehicles (and kind of a lousy one for many of us humans). Automotive specialist Tom Voelk looks at the positive and picks the best cars, trucks and SUVs from what he’s driven over the past year. His choice for Vehicle of the Year can be had for as little as $21,500. So there are some surprises in this list. As a This Is Spinal Tap fan, Tom turns it up to 11. Maybe 12. This year, the unveiling comes from Hawaii’s Big Island. Because, why not?

The 2022 Porsche GTS Sport Turismo EV Is Performance Anyone Can Live With (Well… Those With Money)

I’ve pushed the Porsche Taycan GTS sedan at Willow Spring International Raceway and learned that fade-free electric performance can be a truly beautiful thing. But how does this track monster behave in the real world? The GTS Sport Turismo gets the same street/track personality and adds a wagon-like rear to make performance driving practical. It’s the best of all worlds, if you have the disposable income for an EV that begins at around $135K. Tom Voelk zooms up it California’s famed Angeles ...

The 2022 Porsche Taycan GTS Is A Track Monster (And A Powerful Argument For Electrification)

There are many good reasons for buying an electric vehicle. The most powerful one is desire. People will crave EVs when they make the driving experience better. The Porsche Taycan GTS is that car. It’s the perfect ambassador for performance lovers needing a grocery getter and a track tool without compromise. Comfortable for everyday driving, the GTS is happy to carve up Willow Springs International Raceway. That’s where Tom Voelk drives the sedan version (GTS is also available as the more pr...