The Versatile 2024 Ford Maverick Lariat FX4 | #600

In the latest episode of “The Drive,” host Alan Taylor spoke with automotive journalist BJ Killeen about the Grand National Roadster Show’s 75th anniversary at the Pomona Fairgrounds. The event attracted a record turnout, with BJ walking about 20,000 steps through the exhibits. Highlights included a timeline of past winners and George Barris’s iconic vehicles, such as the Batmobile. Bill Ganahl was honored as Builder of the Year, while Troy Trepanier received the MBR award for his 1976 Ford. BJ and Alan compared top builders like Trepanier and Chip Foose, and discussed their views on Tesla and its CEO, appreciating efforts to combat government corruption but expressing mixed feelings about Tesla vehicles, especially the Cybertruck. In industry news, Honda and Nissan have ended their partnership, leading Nissan to implement cost-cutting measures. Meanwhile, Hon Hai Precision Industry has acquired a stake in another manufacturer, and Georgia is developing smart traffic lights for emergency vehicles, while Illinois tests a GPS-based roadway fee collection system.

Karl Brauer, Automotive Industry Analyst, Forbes Autos Contributor, North American Car and Truck of the Year juror and board member, and Executive Analyst for ISeeCars.com, highlighted the most reliable cars for the money based on vehicle lifespans and ownership costs. The Honda Civic stands out as the top choice, priced around $27,560 with an average lifespan of 13.7 years and an annual ownership cost of about $2,006. The Toyota Corolla follows closely at around $25,218, lasting 11.6 years with an annual cost of approximately $2,166. Other notable mentions include the Mazda 3, Honda Accord, Subaru Impreza, and Toyota RAV4, among others. This analysis used consistent criteria for evaluating reliability and value. Recently, Karl drove the 2025 Lexus LX700H, an exciting new luxury SUV built on the LC300 platform. It features a turbocharged V6 engine with hybrid technology, boasting 700 horsepower and priced between $115,000 and $142,000. Karl also test drove the 2025 Bentley Continental GT, priced around $350,000. With 771 horsepower, it accelerates from zero to sixty in just 2.8 seconds. This model is Bentley’s first plug-in hybrid, capable of 40 miles on electric power. It combines a 4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with advanced suspension for a remarkable driving experience.

George Kennedy, co-founder of Cartender.com and VP of the New England Motor Press Association, recently test drove the 2026 Toyota Crown, which replaces the Avalon. Built on the Highlander chassis, the Crown combines Japanese and American design elements, offering SUV-like ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and a hybrid option well-suited for Northeastern driving. Kennedy praised its luxury feel and ride quality, though consumer response remains uncertain. He also tested the 2025 Hyundai Sonata, a strong contender in the mid-size sedan market, often compared to the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. The Sonata offers a practical array of features, including a 191-horsepower engine and a sportier M line model with 290 horsepower. Despite the SUV trend, the Sonata stands out for its handling and low center of gravity. Its 10-year or 100,000-mile warranty enhances its value, reflecting Hyundai and Kia’s evolution into serious competitors in the automotive market. During a recent winter vehicle testing event by the New England Motor Press Association, vehicles were evaluated for performance under challenging conditions. Notable models included the GMC Sierra EV, which impressed with its mid-gate functionality and handling in heavy mud, and the Land Rover Defender, known for its advanced features such as locking differentials and adjustable suspension. One tester likened the Defender’s versatility to that of a Billy goat, highlighting the reliability differences among brands. The event highlighted the importance of year-round functionality in winter vehicles. Results will be featured in “Up Shift,” the Lars Anderson Auto Museum’s official magazine, and on the Nampa website.

Brian Moody, the Executive Editor of AutoTrader.com and KBB.com, recently announced the 2025 Best Buy awards, now in their 11th year. This year, the Toyota Camry won the Best New Model award for its exclusive hybrid design, praised for its comfort, large touchscreen, JBL audio system, panoramic sunroof, and heads-up display. In the Best in Class categories, the Kia Telluride was awarded both Best Midsize SUV and Best Three-Row Electric Vehicle for the new Kia EV9. The Telluride excelled with strong resale value, while the EV9’s long-term potential is still being assessed. Moody reminisced about the Telluride’s debut at New York Fashion Week. Kelley Blue Book’s Best Buy awards highlighted the Ford Maverick as the best compact truck, commended for its hybrid and gas options, impressive payload and towing capacity. Other winners included the Toyota Tacoma (best mid-size truck), Ford F-150 (best f...