With a gallon of regular averaging a relatively cheap $2.57, crossovers and SUVs now comprise more than 50% of new vehicle purchases while pickup trucks have taken nearly 20% of the market for the first time in 15 years. But that doesn’t mean their buyers are eager to part with their hard-earned money. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, these are the least efficient for the 2020 model year…
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2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid Review By Auto Critic Steve Hammes. Ford has taken a bold approach here with the next generation of one of their most venerable nameplates. Returning to a rear-wheel drive platform that offers up to 29mpg – this is the all-new Explorer Hybrid. The Explorer is bigger inside and it feels it featuring new easier to maneuver 2nd row seats, a flat load floor that can carry 4’ wide items, and redesigned anchor points for easier child seat installation.  https://testdrivenow.com/2020-ford-explorer-hybrid/

MSRP as-tested: $55,270

2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk Review by TestDriveNow Auto Critic Steve Hammes.
Small SUVs are a dime a dozen but try and find one that can really get after it when the pavement ends and your choices dwindle to only a few. And it’s no surprise that Jeep offers one of the most capable with the Compass. It’s not perfect but it possesses a unique skillset that I like with a healthy dose of creature comforts – a fun alternative in the small SUV segment.  

The third-generation RDX (2019-20) is the first in a new generation of Acura models built on the resurgent luxury brand’s original and authentic Precision Crafted Performance brand values.  In setting their targets for the design and performance, the U.S. design and engineering team drew inspiration from both the Acura Precision Concept and Acura Precision Cockpit as well as the pinnacle representation of Acura performance, the NSX supercar. The RDX is the first all-new design drawing from the Concept styling and the advanced Cockpit technology. The RDX team’s ultimate goal was straightforward: to make the best RDX ever, a vehicle that sets the foundation for an entire new generation of Acura vehicles in terms of styling, performance, premium quality and technology.

Featuring a new Platinum White exterior color for 2020, RDX carries forward the next generation of Acura design, performance and technology that debuted on the all-new 2019 model, including the popular A-Spec sport appearance package. RDX delivers an exceptional driving experience thanks in part to its 272-horsepower (SAE net) turbocharged i-VTEC® engine and available Acura Super-Handling All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), along with a class-leading array of standard premium features and technologies, including AcuraWatch™ safety and driver-assistive technology, an ultra-wide panoramic moonroof, next-generation Acura JewelEye™ LED headlights, and next-generation Acura sport seats. The 2020 RDX also includes the critically-acclaimed True Touchpad Interface™, Acura’s groundbreaking user interface tailored around the driver. Also offered on RDX is the available ELS Studio 3D™ premium audio, a 16-channel, 710-watt system, featuring four ultra-slim Highline™ ceiling-mounted speakers to create a truly immersive listening experience.

The third-generation RDX has received the highest possible safety ratings of TOP SAFETY PICK+ (depending on selected headlights) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and is expected to repeat this feat for the 2020 model year.

When you fill your Wrangler cup all the way to the top this is what you drink; an Unlimited Rubicon with every option making it nearly as luxurious as it is capable. This is my first drive in one powered by a 2.0-liter turbo; one of three engine offerings for the 2020 model year. Base price is about $44,000 but this one has it all.  And it’s as fun to drive through the snow and mud as ever with a new turbo option that’s likely best suited for the Wrangler Sport . MSRP as-tested: $59,605 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4X4 Review By Auto Critic Steve Hammes https://testdrivenow.com/2020-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-4×4/