The 2022 Ford E-Transit Might Be a Much Bigger Deal Than the 2022 Ford Lightning

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Pickup trucks are the most popular vehicles in the world. So, when the electric truck switch was flipped, and seemingly every major automaker decided to start building one, it looked like the EV push had some steam behind it. The truth is, electric trucks like the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning are awesome and helpful, but electric vans like the 2022 Ford E-Transit are the real ticket. 

2022 Ford E-Transit | Ford

While selling more EVs of any kind – especially the large, fuel-guzzling pickup trucks – is great, think about the impact that electric vans could have. All of the Amazon, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and endless other delivery vehicles all of a sudden not using gasoline or diesel would make a tremendous difference in carbon emissions. 

Make way for the 2022 Ford E-Transit van

The new electric Ford Transits parked together
2022 Ford E-Transit | Ford

The 2022 Ford E-Transit was made to support a wide variety of commercial and personal needs. According to MotorTrend, Ford made the cargo area highly configurable to accommodate as many uses as possible. 

As noted by MotorTrend, the classic cargo van variant will be sold in three different lengths and three different roof heights. The payload will max out at 3,800 pounds, while cargo capacity maxes out at 487.3 cubic feet, the same as the ICE Transit. Understanding that the electric camper van aspect of the 2022 Ford E-Transit cannot be overlooked, Ford is also offering a chassis cab and cutaway model. 

What are the specs for the electric transit van? 

Front of the 2022 Ford E-Transit van.
2022 Ford E-Transit | Ford

The upcoming Electric Ford Transit van is borrowing the same running gear as the new Ford Mach-E. Ford planted the 266-hp and 317 lb-ft of torque electric motor right in the middle as the motoring gods intended it. The motor sends all the power to the rear wheels and stores its delivery power in a 67kWh battery pack. Since the motor and batteries are both stored in the middle, under the floor, the powertrain takes up zero storage space. 

Ford is clearly making a big play with the 2022 Ford E-Transit by giving it all the coolest electric features. The 2021 Ford F-150 hybrid has one of the most useful features even given to a pickup truck, the built-in power generator. Ford is also giving the gift of mobile power to the E-Transit, which should send camper van builders over the moon. 

The only trouble for camper van builders will be the E-Transit’s low range. Ford says that this silent delivery machine will only get a range of 125 miles. This makes getting deep into the woods a bit more challenging. 

How much will the electric Ford Transit van cost? 

According to MotorTrend, Ford has marked the low-roofline, short wheelbase 2022 Ford E-Transit as starting at $44,990. Amazingly, that is only $1,600 more than the gas-powered version of the Ford Transit van.  

If the major delivery services adopt the electric Ford Transit, that would be a major step in the right direction toward dealing with the global climate crisis.

In many ways, the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning coming soon is one of the most significant changes to the new car market. Taking the most popular truck of all time and making it electric shows that Ford is willing to put both feet in on the EV movement. However, the E-Transit might just prove to be even more significant if the other major delivery vans follow suit.

RELATED: The Tiny eBussy Camper Van Is One of the Most Affordable EVs, and It’s Coming to America

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Top 3 New Toyota SUV Models According to Consumer Reports

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Toyota SUVs and crossovers are popular cars for families. But which ones are the best? According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Toyota Highlander, 2021 RAV4 Prime, and the 2021 Toyota Venza are the top three new Toyota SUV models. 

2021 Toyota Highlander | Toyota

All three of these models are crossover SUVs, meaning they are built on a unibody platform and not a truck frame. The crossover segment has grown tremendously over the last several years. The popularity of these Toyota crossover vehicles only solidifies how appealing this segment is to modern consumers. Let’s take a look at why Consumer Reports thinks these are the best Toyota crossover SUVs you can buy. 

1. The 2021 Toyota Venza is making a stunning comeback as a luxurious hybrid crossover

A white 2021 Toyota Venza driving through a dark city
2021 Toyota Venza | Toyota

New for 2021, the Toyota Venza brings bag an old nameplate with a brand new hybrid crossover. The 2021 Toyota Venza received a road test score of 75/100 from Consumer Reports. It also earned a predicted reliability rating of 4/5 with a matching 4/5 predicted owner satisfaction rating. 

Consumer Reports recommends the all-new Venza and gives it a Green Choice badge. This hybrid slots between the Toyota RAV4 and the three-row Highlander. The 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine and electric drive produce up to 219 hp. Additionally, the 2021 Toyota Venza gets an average of 37 mpg. 

When driving the Toyota Venza, we agree that this hybrid crossover is a “pleasant-enough” vehicle that “rides comfortably and handles soundly.” additionally, the upper trims boast an upscale interior. In fact, it almost parallels Lexus models like the Lexus NX. 

Downsides include some tricky controls and what COnsumer Reports calls “pronounced” tire and engine noise. However, for a starting price of $32,670, the 2021 Toyota Venza comes with all-wheel drive, front crash warning (FCW), automatic emergency braking (AEB), blind spot warning (BSW), and pedestrian detection as standard equipment.

2. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a plug-in hybrid is the fastest new Toyota on the market

A 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime parked, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is one of the least reliable Toyota models
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime | Toyota

When we tested the RAV4 Prime, the Toyota rep attending the event specifically noted that this is the fastest new Toyota you can buy. A 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine gives the Prime 302 hp in combination with the electric drive. And it does feel quick. 

 “With its electric drive and 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the Prime produces a combined 302-hp, which makes it feel very quick.”

Consumer Reports

Due to the fact that the 2021 RAV4 Prime’s powertrain includes an electric motor, it can go about 40 miles solely on electric power. The battery takes about 5 hours to get a full charge from a 240-volt outlet. It’s a quicker quieter version of the gas-powered RAV4 crossover. 

Not only is it one of the best Toyota crossover SUV models you can buy, but it also qualifies for a $7,500 EV tax break. It’s also standard with all-wheel drive, FCW, pedestrian detection, AEB, and BSW. Plus, the RAV4 includes rear cross warning in the standard equipment package. 

For a starting price of $38,350, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is a hybrid crossover with a Consumer Reports road test score of 85/100. This top toyota SUV model earned a predicted reliability rating of 3/5 and a predicted owner satisfaction score of 4/5.

3. The 2021 Toyota Highlander is the best Toyota SUV according to Consumer Reports

A red 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid driving
2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid | Toyota

The current fourth-generation Highlander is a comfortable and spacious three-row SUV for families that want a solid and versatile vehicle with a quality interior. Consumer Reports says the 2021 Toyota Highlander has a “smooth powertrain” and “handling is sound and secure.” A 295 hp V6 allows this Toyota crossover SUV to get 22 mpg on average. 

While a bit less powerful, the hybrid Toyota Highlander gets an average of 35 mpg. This three-row family crossover SUV can offer seating for seven or eight. However, the third row is very cramped––best for children. It also comes with a healthy list of standard equipment for a starting price of $35,085. 

But all-wheel drive costs an extra $1,600 or $1,950 for upper level trims. Consumer Reports scores the 2021 Toyota Highlander 84 total. An 86/100 road test score, 4/5 predicted reliability score, and predicted owner satisfaction rating of 4/5 combine to make the best Toyota crossover SUV you can buy––according to Consumer Reports. 

Top 3 Toyota SUV models 

a red 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime is one of the best Toyota crossover SUV models shown here in red driving at speed in a tunnel
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime | Toyota

According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Toyota Venza, 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime, and the 2021 Toyota Highlander are the top 3 Toyota SUV models. In fact, while none of these are perfect, they are near perfect for the right buyers. At the very least, if either of these fit the bill for what you’re shopping for they are worth a test drive.

RELATED: What Is the Biggest Toyota SUV?

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2022 Chevy Silverado vs. 2021 Chevy Silverado: Is the New Model Worth Waiting For?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

In 1999, Chevrolet introduced the light-duty Silverado pickup truck. Now in its fourth generation, the dependable hauler has become one of the best-selling trucks on the market. New engine options, structural changes, and the addition of advanced safety features put the 2021 Chevy Silverado at the head of its class. But what about the 2022 model?

Is it worth skipping the current model to wait for the 2022 Chevy Silverado? Let’s find out.

Differences between the 2021 and 2022 Chevy Silverado

The 2021 (left) and 2022 Chevy Silverado 2500HD | General Motors

The new 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 is getting a significant refresh, while the medium-duty and heavy-duty models will see only minor changes, GM Authority reports.

Exterior improvements include new rear and front fascia designs. A change in the appearance of the wheels, along with new color choices, will be available for several trim levels.

The 2022 Silverado’s interior will have an all-new cockpit featuring an overhauled dash, center console, and center stack. A significantly larger infotainment screen will complement the new fully digital instrument gauge cluster, and a new gear selector replaces the column shifter.

Technology abounds in the 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 with the introduction of Google Automotive Services, which provides drivers instant access to live traffic feeds, maps, and location search features. The luxurious High Country trim will include a semiautonomous driving and towing system.

Increased payload capacity, modifications to the rear suspension, and enhanced towing capabilities make the Silverado 1500 an attractive choice for owners of small boats and RVs. The 2022 Chevy Silverado ZR2 will offer all the necessary bells and whistles for drivers looking to enjoy off-road adventures.

The 2022 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD will see only minor changes with the deletion of several exterior colors and the addition of a multi-flex tailgate. The medium-duty trucks will have a slight change in equipment with new exterior colors and the option of a 6.6-liter L8T V8 gas-powered engine.

So, is the 2022 model worth waiting for? 

With so many improvements in the works, it makes sense to wait for the 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 if you don’t need a truck right now. According to GM Authority, production will begin on September 20 on the regular cab and crew cab configurations. Double cab production is slated to start on September 27.

If you have your heart set on an HD model, you might want to find a deal on a 2021 model because the MSRP of next year’s model will be slightly higher, and not many changes are anticipated. Production on the 2022 HD trucks began on July 12.

Keep in mind that the ongoing microchip shortage could change the production schedule. If time is not of the essence and you’re looking at Chevy Silverado HD models, consider waiting for the refresh expected on the 2023 model. 

The Chevy Silverado comes in various configurations and trims

Whether you’re looking for a heavy-duty workhorse, an off-road explorer, or a light-duty truck for everyday tasks, the Chevy Silverado lineup includes something for everyone.

The 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500, with an MSRP OF $29,300, comes in five configurations and eight trim levels. The light-duty version provides six powertrain options, from the 285-hp 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V6 to the powerful turbocharged 3.0-liter Duramax I6 diesel engine producing 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque.

The heavy-duty Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD are available with a 6.6-liter L8T V8 engine or a Duramax turbocharged diesel churning out 445 hp and an astounding 910 lb-ft of torque. The 2500HD starts at $35,300, and the 3500HD runs $36,500 to start.

The medium-duty Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD trucks are in their first generation. The 6.6-liter L5D V8 turbocharged diesel is the only engine available in these models. According to GM Authority, the current configuration will continue through the 2027 model year.

The medium-duty trucks are available as regular cab or crew cab dual rear wheel. Standard features include an up-fitter switch kit, exhaust brake, StabiliTrak, and non-locking rear differential.

But regardless of whether you opt for a 2021 or a 2022 Chevy Silverado, you’ll get an excellent truck.

RELATED:  Recall Alert: These Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Tires Are Still Dangerous

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These 2 Used Ford Cars Are Great Deals if You Want a Manual Transmission

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Used car prices have been surging lately, thanks to shortages in new vehicles caused by supply chain problems. But even though prices have been rising, it’s still possible to find a good deal on some used vehicles with manual transmissions. In fact, two Ford models with manual transmissions are on CarMax’s list of the best used cars for 2021. Read on to learn whether either might be a good choice for you.

CarMax’s roundup of the best used cars for 2021

Ford cars | Joe Raedle/Getty Images

To help car shoppers, CarMax puts together an annual list of the used vehicles it considers the best in various categories. The used vehicle retailer categorizes cars by price (under $10,000, $15,000, and $30,000) and more specific tags, such as car style, transmission style, and gas mileage. 

Many of the car style lists are impressively subdivided even further. For example, if you’re in the market for an SUV, CarMax divides its “best” SUV lists into categories such as AWD, Hybrid, Large, Midsize, Luxury, SUVs With 3 Rows, and SUVs With the Best Gas Mileage. 

But if you want a more budget-friendly option than an SUV, CarMax has you covered there too. Many of the models on its “Best Used Vehicles With Manual Transmission” list are quite affordable. The five models on the list for 2021 are the Ford Mustang, Honda Civic, Subaru WRX, Ford Focus, and Chevrolet Camaro. It’s noteworthy that Ford is the only manufacturer with two cars in the roundup.  

The Ford Mustang tops the list

Search Results

Number one on CarMax‘s list is the Ford Mustang, which has long been a favorite of those seeking power on the open road. It’s one of the most classic cars still in production, having enthralled motorists for over 50 years. CarMax touts the latest technology that can be found “both inside the cabin and under the hood, designed to make the Mustang a pleasure to drive as well as make it faster than ever before.” 

Though Mustangs aren’t the most economical cars, their costs can be lower when bought used with a manual transmission. If you’re looking to keep costs down while still taking advantage of relatively modern technology, CarMax gives the nod to the 2013 and 2014 models.

For example, the 2014 Ford Mustang GT Premium features a 4.2-inch color LCD, a Ford Sync voice-activated connectivity system, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. 

Prices for a 2014 Mustang vary widely depending upon mileage, location, and features. For instance, you can snag a Stang in Birmingham, Alabama, with 20,000 miles for $31,998. But a similar price in Wichita, Kansas, will get you a Mustang with twice the mileage on it. Meanwhile, a 2020 model with 11,000 miles will run you nearly $43,000 in Orlando, Florida. 

Ford’s other model on CarMax’s list is arguably the polar opposite of the Mustang.

The Ford Focus ranks 4th for manual transmissions

If a relatively new Mustang seems out of reach for your budget, a used Ford Focus might fit the bill instead. CarMax notes this compact car came into production to replace the discontinued Escort economy model, but it offers some luxurious options. For instance, the Focus boasts optional leather-trimmed seats and automatic temperature control. Standard features on 2013 to 2018 models include five-person seating, ABS, and an SOS Post-Crash Alert System. 

A Focus can easily cost less than half the price of a Mustang. For example, a 2012 Ford Focus with 60,000 miles in Albany, New York, goes for only $11,599, while a similar price in Scottsdale, Arizona, gets you one with 95,000 miles on it. If you had something newer in mind, you could find a 2018 Focus with only 2,000 miles for just under $17,000 in Warner Robins, Georgia. 

2018 is the latest model year available for the Focus. Ford discontinued the model’s production after that year. The Blue Oval now focuses less on sedans and more on its impressive lineup of trucks and SUVs. 

RELATED: Something Smells Funny With Ford’s New Mustang Mach-E GT Ploy

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