The 2021 Honda Ridgeline Is Actually Safer Than the 2021 Toyota Tacoma

by Gabrielle DeSantis

2021 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

Pickup truck shoppers have lots of options to choose from these days. Toyota has been making solid trucks for year, and Honda’s trucks have been winning awards. The 2021 Honda Ridgeline is safer than the 2021 Toyota Tacoma according to NHTSA safety ratings, proving that Honda is starting to get things right with their pickup. 

Safety features between the 2021 Honda Ridgeline and 2021 Toyota Tacoma are basically the same

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Both Honda and Toyota know that incorporating standard safety features into their pickup trucks makes them safer. Both the 2021 Honda Ridgeline and 2021 Toyota Tacoma come with forward collision warning. This alerts the driver when it senses an imminent collision. They both also come with city and highway emergency braking systems, as well as pedestrian detection.

Lane departure warning in both the Honda Ridgeline and Toyota Tacoma are standard. Lane keeping assist is standard only in the Honda Ridgeline. 

Although both the Ridgeline and Tacoma come with rear view cameras, blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are optional in both. 

Both the Honda Ridgeline and 2021 Toyota Tacoma come with anti lock brakes, traction and stability control. They both also have daytime running lights. 

Airbags are equal in the Ridgeline and the Tacoma

Front and rear side airbags are standard in both the Honda Ridgeline and the Toyota Tacoma. So is head protection with rollover. 

IIHS crash test ratings are a draw

The IIHS does front moderate overlap testing, which measures how well a pickup truck does when its front left hits a barrier at 40 MPH. There was no difference in how the Honda Ridgeline and the Toyota Tacoma performed in this test. Both the Ridgeline and Tacoma got good marks in this. 

Likewise, the Ridgeline and the Tacoma both got good marks for the front small overlap driver and acceptable for the front small overlap passenger. 

Side crash test ratings, rear crash and roof crash were good for both the Honda Ridgeline and the Toyota Tacoma. 

The NHTSA crash test ratings favor the 2021 Honda Ridgeline

The NHTSA overall crash score, overall frontal-crash, overall frontal-crash driver and overall frontal-crash passenger were all five stars for the Honda Ridgeline. On the other hand, the Toyota Tacoma scored just four stars in all of these categories. 

All of the side crash tests for the Honda Ridgeline are five stars: overall side, overall side-crash, side-crash driver, side-crash, rear passenger and side pole-crash. Although the Toyota Tacoma received a five star overall side-crash and side-crash rear passenger rating, it only has a four star side-crash driver and side-pole crash test rating. The advantage here goes to the Ridgeline. 

Rollover ratings for both the 2WD and 4WD 2021 Honda Ridgeline and the 2021 Toyota Tacoma are four stars, so this is a draw between the Honda and Toyota. 

So which is the safer pickup truck, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline or the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?

Consumer Reports tested both vehicles and found that the routine handling, emergency handling, and braking was better in the 2021 Honda Ridgeline. Combined with the IIHS and NHTSA test ratings, and it’s clear to see that the 2021 Honda Ridgeline is the safer pickup truck.

The post The 2021 Honda Ridgeline Is Actually Safer Than the 2021 Toyota Tacoma appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

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2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 Review: A Surprisingly Gratifying Crossover

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Mercedes-AMG brand has a reputation. A reputation for being powerful, fast, and luxurious all rolled into one package. When the time came for a premium compact crossover, the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 fit the bill. The smaller GLA model offers a roomy cargo area for those who want an SUV and the opulence of an AMG model.

Is the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 a good car?

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 | David Alpert / Amanda Cline

The GLA 35 has all of the looks you would expect from a new Mercedes-AMG vehicle. The front end comes complete with the classic Panamericana grille, while the back end shares similarities with the GLA 45. The curb weight comes in at 3,653 pounds.

Since the GLA 35 is essentially the bigger, better version of the GLA 250 / 250 4 Matic, it makes sense the AMG badge was summoned. The overall dimensions of the 35 came in at 174.6 inches long, 79.5 inches wide (with the mirrors), and 62.5 inches high; it is similar in size to the 250. (The 250 was 173.6 long/79.5 wide/63.5 high).

The interior display covers the driver’s dashboard and the center of the dashboard. It can be configured to follow the three styles, Classic, Sport, and Supersport. These coincide with the Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ drive modes.

More than 73% of the parts on this car were created in Germany, while the car itself was fully assembled in Germany. There is more plastic in the dashboard area than it needs, but it appears it would be easy to clean. The upgraded 19-inch wheels make a lot of noise on the road and make the cabin loud. If you are concerned about that, you could go with the smaller wheel option.

How much horsepower does the GLA 35 AMG have?

A black 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 | David Alpert / Amanda Cline

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The AMG-enhanced 2.0L inline-four turbo engine gets 302 horsepower at 5,800 and 6,100 rpm. 295 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 to 4,000 rpm. It goes from 0-60 miles per hour in 5.1 seconds. This SUV also comes with the AMG eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 35 is only offered in all-wheel-drive, but this made an impact in the heavy rain. I was able to drive through the rain without issue even with a lot of standing water.

One area that impressed me was the suspension during hard corners. The GLA handled like a dream and did not roll around like some SUVs tend to do. The AMG adaptive ride control sports suspension dampening did its job when called upon. It offers three stages for whatever street you might be traversing that day.

While this small SUV might not have enough mean-sounding AMG grumbles or off-the-line speeds, it is right for a certain audience. For instance, those who liked the CLA line but wanted more room. If you are looking for extra power, the GLA 45 might be a good upgrade option. It has many similar features but is a bit faster where the 35 isn’t.

However, the price of the 35 is a better deal for those who want the upgraded performance without a higher price. The bottom line? This is still a fun SUV that is fast enough to satisfy most divers. It was reactive when it needed to be trying to cross multiple lanes of traffic.

The interior ambiance is welcoming

The interior of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 interior | David Alpert / Amanda Cline

This compact SUV has room for five passengers. It comes with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and enough ambient lighting to fuel your supercar dreams. The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is a welcome and easy-to-navigate system. Some drivers yearn for real buttons, which are included below the screen for easy access to climate control.

The power sport seats in the front adjust with ease. The interior color compliments the outside, and the AMG styling looks fresh. However, some drivers might find the white color offputting, especially those with children. Steer clear of this option if that applies to your situation. The back seats fold down and recline as necessary for extra cargo room.

The light Neva Grey interior might be a bit intimidating for those with families, but it didn’t accrue any imperfections in our time together. The brushed aluminum trim reflected nicely against the blue and red interior lights, as shown above. The three air vents in the middle of the dashboard offer sufficient air, even in the hot Florida sun.

The ride isn’t the most comfortable on the planet, but it has room for road trips should the room be needed. Since the 2021 model is a bit bigger, you get the extra room and the higher quality that AMG provides. One suggested addition is the optional air-conditioned and heated front seats. For the extra $500, it makes a big difference.

Is the Mercedes-AMG worth buying?

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 front end
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 | David Alpert / Amanda Cline

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Long story short, the AMG version is worth buying at $47,550. The one photographed here is priced at $53,230 due to a few upgrades. If you are looking for a similar SUV, the 2021 GLA 250 starts at $36,230. The 2021 GLA 250 4MATIC SUV starts at $38,230.

If you are looking for something sportier and smaller, the smaller CLA 250 coupe starts at $37,850. The CLA 250 4MATIC coupe starts at $39,850. For the 2021 AMG 35 CLA, the price starts at $47,850. The AMG CLA 45 starts at $55,350.

The GLA 35 comes equipped with the Nappa leather steering wheel ($400) and upgraded 20-inch wheels ($750). This SUV also came with the Multimedia Package ($1,295). MBUX navigation, map updates, and speed assist are included.

Another package added to this compact SUV was the premium Mercedes package. That offers keyless go, hands-free access, auto-dimming mirrors, and power fold-in mirrors ($800).

The GLA 35 gets an estimated 23 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway. The annual fuel cost is estimated to be $2,250. The tank size comes in at 12.7 gallons and costs just under $50 to fill. For one tank, the compact SUV gets an average of 318 miles.

Overall, if you are in the market for an AMG but aren’t convinced about the higher prices of the coupes and bigger SUVs, the 2021 GLA 35 fits right in. If you have ever been in the non-AMG GLA, you will probably be able to tell the difference right away. While the GLA 250 is still a nice ride, the GLA 35 AMG is way more fun in comparison.

The post 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 Review: A Surprisingly Gratifying Crossover appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

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2021 Toyota Tacoma Sales Are off to a Record-Breaking Start

by Gabrielle DeSantis

For years, the Toyota Tacoma has earned subpar reviews compared with its compact pickup rivals. Toyota hasn’t given this model a full redesign in many years, leaving it less luxurious than most other trucks. Though it excels in off-roading, its underpowered base engine forces consumers to spend more money on higher trims. But even as the Tacoma remains mostly unchanged for the 2021 model year, sales are climbing.

In fact, almost 91,000 units have already sold this year, GoodCarBadCar reports. So what makes the 2021 Toyota Tacoma worth buying?

The Toyota Tacoma’s 2021 sales figures

The Toyota Tacoma saw a strong start in January when it sold 18,878 units. So far, it had its strongest month in March when it sold 26,993 units. If the Taco continues to sell over 20,000 units each month, it’ll crush its previous years’ records. 

Other global markets have also experienced increased Tacoma sales. Canada saw 1,884 units sell last month, a huge jump from the 613 units sold in May 2020. So far this year, 4,359 units have sold in Canada, putting the Tacoma on track to surpass 2020 sales in that country.

U.S. sales in previous years

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The Toyota Tacoma sold 248,801 units in 2019, making that its most successful year in the States. However, save for February, the Tacoma has already broken all of its sales records for 2019 during the past four months. Sales are also up compared to 2018, another successful year for the Toyota Tacoma.

Despite lackluster reviews, the Tacoma has always sold more units than rivals such as the Honda Ridgeline and Chevy Colorado, GoodCarBadCar shows. However, the Colorado is playing catchup, too. So far, it has sold 24,084 units for 2021, more than a quarter of its total units sold last year.

Who should buy a Toyota Tacoma?

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The 2021 Toyota Tacoma comes standard with a relatively weak 2.7-liter four-cylinder producing 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. According to Consumer Reports, it lacks the quickness of trucks with V6 or diesel engines. Fortunately, buyers can choose an optional V6 on all trims for a little less than $2,300.

The V6 makes 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. With the optional tow package, a V6-equipped Tacoma can trailer up to 6,800 pounds. This engine is also relatively efficient, but some critics say the automatic transmission is a little clunky.

Even with the capable V6, the Toyota Tacoma still doesn’t have the best handling. CR testers report that it wobbles over the steadiest pavement and that the steering lacks feedback. Cabin noise was also very pronounced in past models, but the 2021 Tacoma boasts better insulation.

The Tacoma TRD Off-Road model also has a stiffer suspension, which doesn’t improve its ride quality. However, this trim also comes with the most adventuring add-ons, including a locking rear differential and crawl control. CR recommends getting the TRD Sport instead. It has a gentler sport-tuned suspension and available leather-trimmed seats.

This is probably because the Tacoma’s standard seating arrangements aren’t very accommodating. The seat cushions are too hard for long-term comfort, and legroom is cramped for passengers. Drivers have to deal with a short ceiling and a front seat that rests too low. Additionally, the steep step-in height can become annoying over time.

However, CR’s testers appreciate the many safety features that come on even the standard trim. All the controls are also easy to master, though the buttons are too far from the driver.

Overall, the Toyota Tacoma isn’t the most comfortable truck, but it’s a good basic workhorse.

The post 2021 Toyota Tacoma Sales Are off to a Record-Breaking Start appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

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Consumer Reports Names a Total Shoo-In as the Best Pickup Truck of 2021

by Gabrielle DeSantis

In a freshly updated list of the 10 Top Picks of 2021, Consumer Reports named the best pickup truck of the year. And it’s the same unibody pickup truck that’s risen to the top in the eyes of critics across the board. From Edmunds to CarConnection and many more top-of-class rankings, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline is staking its claim as the practical truck that people actually need.

2021 Honda Ridgeline | Honda

Larger full-size trucks like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 remain obvious place-holders for awards like Edmunds’ Top Rated 2021 and MotorTrend Truck of the Year. However, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline keeps winning too. It’s the best midsize or compact pickup truck on nearly every list. And now, Consumer Reports has named it the best pickup truck to buy in 2021. In fact, full-sizers are mysteriously absent on Consumer Reports’ 10 Top Picks of 2021 list.

“Many pickup trucks are proud, hulking brutes. But these commercial-grade monsters are overkill for many suburbanites and weekend warriors. That’s where the genius of the Ridgeline comes in.”

Consumer Reports

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline: redesigned and better than ever

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For 2021, the Honda Ridgeline got a spiffy redesign. It remains a unibody pickup truck, but now sports more aggressive styling and all-wheel drive is standard across every trim level. It’s still part of the Ridgeline’s second generation, which Honda released for the 2017 model year.

The front end got fresh updates. In fact, Edmunds says Honda aimed to make the 2021 Honda Ridgeline “look more like a truck rather than a Honda Pilot SUV with a cargo bed out back.” The updated infotainment system also received a physical volume knob. This is a welcome addition, as the lack thereof is one of the more common complaints about the second-generation Ridgeline models thus far.

One of the fan-favorite redesign additions includes a new rear bumper that sports dual exhaust. Plus, there are new styling packages that come straight from Honda Performance Development. The 2021 Honda Ridgeline saw big changes for 2021 while keeping the same satisfying driving dynamics, comfortable cabin experience, and 3.5-liter V6 engine combined with a nine-speed automatic transmission (introduced in 2020) that creates 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

How much is the new Ridgeline pickup truck?

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There are four 2021 Honda Ridgeline trims to choose from. The base-level Sport trim starts at $36,490. This model, like all redesigned Ridgeline trucks, includes standard all-wheel drive and Honda’s safety suite that includes safety tech/driver-assist features like forward collision warning, emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.

The next level up gives you the RTL Ridgeline. This model starts at $39,470––which may seem a little steep. However, Consumer Reports recommends this trim as the best value.

Moving up the trims, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline offers the RTL-E and the Black Edition. These models start at $42,420 and $43,920 respectively. In addition, packages can be added to the trim levels.

For example, the Honda Performance Development (available on every trim) package costs an extra $2,800. The 2021 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition comes standard with the HPD package. There are also cool features like a lockable in-bed trunk (that can also be a cooler)––and the RTL-E and Black Edition versions get a truck bed audio system.

Consumer Reports 10 Top Picks of 2021

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Due to its ability to seamlessly balance the utility of a small truck with impressive road manners and a comfortable cabin, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline is the only pickup truck Consumer Reports added to its 10 Top Picks of 2021 list. In fact, it gives this midsize pickup truck accolades for a long list of achievements including best-in-class gas-powered fuel mileage, a “quiet and well-finished cabin,” and “car-like” comfort.

The bigger brutish full-size pickup trucks like the Ford F-150 and the Ram 1500 certainly have their appeal. Obviously, certain truck buyers need real workhorse payload and towing strength. However, given Consumer Reports’ love for all things truly practical, this truck landing on the 10 Top Picks of 2021 list just makes sense. It’s no surprise. Consumer Reports named a total shoo-in as the best pickup truck of 2021.

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