Author: Michael S. Cole

Expanding Your Horizons: Top Cars Under $30,000 in 2024 With car prices on the rise, finding a reliable and feature-rich vehicle under $30,000 might seem challenging. However, stretching your budget from $25,000 to $30,000 unveils a plethora of impressive options. From compact sedans to SUVs and even a few trucks, the market offers a diverse range of vehicles that cater to various tastes and needs. Here’s a deep dive into some of the standout models you can consider: 2024 Buick Envista Base Price: $23,995 Key Features: Stylish design, refined interior with large screens, punchy turbo engine. Drawbacks: No AWD option,…

The Evolution and Best Picks of Midsize SUVs for 2024 Buying an SUV in the early days was synonymous with buying a midsize model. Vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota 4Runner transformed the off-roading niche into a mainstream family transportation segment. These models served as the foundation for various SUV categories based on size, capability, and luxury, crafting the diverse market we see today. Modern-Day Midsize SUVs Today’s midsize SUVs—many of which are technically crossovers—offer a plethora of options to cater to different family needs and lifestyle preferences. From three-row family movers…

The Best Midsize Pickup Trucks of 2024: A Comprehensive Review Pickup trucks continue to dominate the American automotive landscape, known for their versatility and rugged utility. However, many of the larger models come with substantial price tags, creating a niche for midsize trucks that offer a blend of comfort, off-road prowess, and luxury without breaking the bank. The 2024 lineup of midsize trucks has something for every buyer, from efficient budget models to high-end off-road warriors. If you’re in the market for a midsize truck, read on to discover the best options available for 2024 and a peek into 2025…

Top Affordable Cars Under $30,000 for 2024 The rising costs of modern vehicles have made finding affordable yet high-quality cars increasingly challenging. Those searching for vehicles under $25,000 may find their options dwindling swiftly. However, stretching the budget just a bit further to $30,000 opens up a plethora of excellent choices, spanning cars, SUVs, and trucks. Below, we’ll explore some standout options that blend affordability with quality, style, and performance. 1. 2024 Buick Envista Base Price: $23,995 Highlights: Stylish design, refined interior, punchy turbo engine. Drawbacks: No all-wheel-drive option, restricted cargo space due to fastback design. The Buick Envista impresses…

Best Compact Trucks in America: Ford Maverick vs. Hyundai Santa Cruz There was a time in the not-too-distant past when choosing the best compact truck in America was a daunting challenge. Virtually every major automaker offered a small pickup, with models such as the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody, and Toyota Tacoma populating dealer lots across the country. Over time, however, these vehicles evolved into larger midsize trucks, leaving a noticeable gap in the compact truck segment. In 2022, this changed when Ford and Hyundai reentered the compact pickup market with the Maverick and Santa Cruz, respectively. Here, we…

Thrilling Developments Unveiled in the 2024 Automobile Awards Season The automobile awards season has taken an exciting turn as two highly prestigious competitions near their climactic finishes. Focusing on two of the premier events, the World Car of the Year 2024 and the Car of the Year (also recognized in some circles as the European Car of the Year), enthusiasts and industry insiders alike are keeping a close eye on the results. European Car of the Year 2024: A New Champion Emerges First, let’s dive into the Car of the Year 2024 award, which was announced with much anticipation at…

The Underdog Allure: Why Wagons Are Cool Again Wagons haven’t always enjoyed a reputation for being cool. Once upon a time, models like the Ford Country Squire or the Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser cemented the wagon’s status as dreary family transport. Iconic pop culture representations like Clark Griswald’s Wagon Queen Family Truckster turned them into punchlines, with minivans and SUVs pushing them towards near extinction. In America, at least. But make no mistake—those days are behind us. If yesteryear’s land yachts filled you with dread, today’s wagons are likely to turn your head instead. The European Influence While American wagons fell…

The Leading Trends in Hybrid Sedans for 2023 and Beyond The automotive industry is currently dominated by two significant trends: full electrification and the rise of SUVs. However, electric vehicles (EVs) aren’t yet the ideal solution for everyone. Many drivers still prefer the classic appeal of lower, sleeker, and nimbler sedans or fastback hatchbacks. Amidst this, traditional hybrid cars have emerged as a compelling option, providing impressive fuel economy and a refined driving experience. Consequently, we’ve compiled a list of the best hybrid sedans currently available, including models right on the verge of launching in 2025. Understanding Traditional Hybrids Before…

Electrification That Thrills: 5 EVs That Pack a Punch One of the hottest topics among car enthusiasts today is electrification. While some purists lament the shift from roaring gas engines to quieter electric motors, claiming that EVs cannot deliver the same exhilarating driving experience, the truth is more nuanced. Yes, electric vehicles (EVs) may not produce the visceral engine noises some drivers crave, but they also bring an unprecedented level of performance that internal combustion engines simply can’t match. This new era of speed and agility is nothing short of electrifying. Below, we examine five EVs that prove electric propulsion…

Driving a subcompact vehicle might not have been appealing in the past, but times have changed significantly. Subcompact cars were once seen as the least desirable among the automotive spectrum, often labeled as econoboxes or even worse. However, it is high time to erase those negative stereotypes from memory. Despite being termed "subcompact" due to their smaller size compared to "compact SUVs," these vehicles can offer practicality and value that might surprise you. They cater to buyers with moderate space and budget needs, departing from the traditionally dismal image of subcompact vehicles. Surprisingly, subcompact SUVs today are competitive and impressive,…