The first RAV4 was a true game-changer, but no one knew at the time just how big of a market shift it would create. Much has changed in the two decades since then. Compact crossover SUVs have grown in actual size, and segment growth shows no signs of abating. RAV4 is the currently the best-selling vehicle in its class, doubling volume over the last five years to sales of nearly 408,000 in the U.S. in 2017. That makes RAV4 Toyota’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S., and the best-selling non-pickup truck in the country.

The 2019 RAV4 is, in essence, disrupting the segment it created. It is bringing more sport and more utility back while enhancing the agile handling, everyday comfort and exemplary fuel efficiency that made RAV4 the segment leader it is now. All told, the 2019 RAV4 is designed to tackle urban, suburban and great outdoor adventures with equal aplomb. The look is tougher, and there’s greater capability with a new type of all-wheel drive, yet the ride is smoother and quieter, with new comfort touches inside.

The 2019 Mazda3 sets a new milestone as the first production model to lead Mazda into a bold new era. Blending beautiful design and exhilarating driving dynamics, Mazda3 was developed to inspire and create an emotional bond with its customers in two very distinct ways. A completely new design approach was taken when styling the sedan and hatchback, each embodying strikingly different personalities.
As a brand that keeps purist drivers in mind, Mazda continues to champion the manual transmission, offering Mazda3 Premium package front-wheel drive hatchbacks with an available SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission.

I finally made it to summer vacation which, as you know, means I’m up in Maine. And this year’s workhorse is the 2019 GMC Acadia; a 3-row, midsize SUV that was last redesigned 3 years ago. It has done a yeoman’s job of everything I’ve asked of it thus far and if you’re considering one here are 10 things you need to know.

With choking traffic and a growing level of ineptitude from behind the wheel, driving is usually anything but an enjoyable experience. So as Americans we try and isolate ourselves in big SUVs and I get why. But when a hot little hatchback like this shows up the driver within is exhumed. This is the new Hyundai Veloster N and it’s the most new car fun you can have for under $30k. https://testdrivenow.com/2019-hyundai-veloster-n/

Volkswagen has a new halo model and no it’s not a W8 or a Phaeton. They’ve named it the Arteon and it picks up where the CC left off, offering VW shoppers a more stylish alternative to the Passat. MSRP of this one with no options is $42,790.  It’s a car I’d be happy to drive every day and with 4MOTION it’s a perfect year-round family car with some flair. https://testdrivenow.com/2019-volkswagen-arteon/