The Nissan Z Brings Back Datsun- Hide Yo Supra, Hide Yo Wallet

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Nissan just hit Toyota where it hurts: right in the nostalgia. The new Nissan Z debuted in New York last night, and its sights are set on the Toyota Supra in every metric. From power to price, to performance, you can bet we’re about to witness a JDM battle we haven’t seen since I was in diapers. Moreover, this new “halo car” signals a tonal shift for Nissan, which desperately needs to revive the brand.

Row your own under $40,000

I’m already picking out new shift knobs in my mind | Nissan

By now I’m sure you’ve heard. The Nissan Z is back. Rather, it’s finally been rebuilt. Frankly, the old model was, in many ways, the last of an old breed. Or maybe we just thought the formula was gone. In fact, this, and the new Subaru/Toyota 86 signify something of a resurgence in the small 2+2 RWD sports car. I’m not mad.

You can read more on the specifics here (thanks Matthew), but the headlines are promising. The Nissan Z will have either a 9-speed auto or a good ol’ six-speed manual. Plus, there’s right around 400 hp for right around $40,000, per Nissan. Cheap (ish) speed indeed. However, I’d like to talk more about why we should be excited, rather than what there is to be excited about. More specifically, why the new Z looks so promising.

Why does the Z look better than before?

The new, very yellow, Z complete with bronze wheels from the factory
Say it with me: factory bronze wheels | Nissan

With that in mind, let’s talk about looks. First, there’s a lot of retro nods, from the old-school “Fairlady” badge to the front grille and headlights, to the proportions. And of course, those 300ZX inspired tail lights (below). So, let’s talk a little about the roof. Much like the Mustang Mach E, the Nissan Z uses a black roof to hide the height of the car. Our eyes are drawn lower down because of it. The Supra uses a similar trick with the blacked-out a-pillars and roofline.

Nissan was able to take away a lot of the visual weight of the old design in doing this, along with flattening out the hood. From the side, this trick works wonders. It’s also something the Supra can’t really pull off because of its BMW heart, with the motor right on the hood. And that is exactly why this, on the surface, holds more appeal than the Supra. The Nissan Z is a less diluted product. The Nissan FM chassis is decades old, but it’s all Nissan. And that’s something the JDM purists want.

Can the Nissan Z push the brand forward?

The new Nissan Z's "Fairlady Z" badge on the rear bumper
The taillights aren’t the only Z-throwback | Stanislav Kogiku via Getty Images

So, on paper, the Nissan Z is a real competitor to the Supra. Also, bronze wheels are always good. But Nissan needs more out of the Z. This is their halo car. The design and ethos that will carry the brand into the (likely electric) future. Because of that, which Nissan knows, this thing has got to be a banger of a sports car. Nissan has more to lose with the Z than Toyota ever did with the Supra. And who doesn’t love rooting for the underdog?

RELATED: This Toyota Supra Continues a Worrying Trend for Millenials and Gen Z

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5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Buy a 90s Honda or Acura

by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you’re currently in the market for a used car, then you have probably noticed that prices for them have spiked. However, if you’re really in a pinch and only have a few thousand dollars to spend, then buying an older Honda or Acura from a private party has probably crossed your mind. And why not?

In the 90s, Hondas and Acuras were built well and they have proven their reliability over time. They’re also easy to modify – if you’re into that kind of thing – and best of all, you can still pick one up for cheap, even in these crazy times. However, here are five reasons why buying an older Honda or Acura might not be the best idea.

1. Many Honda and Acura cars from that era are prone to being stolen

An older model Acura Integra is seen in a parking lot. Acura’s Integra topped the most stolen car list of 2004. | (Photo by Tim Boyle/Getty Images)

It’s fairly common knowledge that older Hondas and Acuras are prone to getting stolen, and unfortunately, that’s still the case in 2021. In fact, Value Penguin reported that the Honda Civic is still the most stolen car in the U.S., followed by the Honda Accord.

Thieves target these older Hondas because they’re so easy to steal and the parts can be sold very easily without a trace. If you really want to buy a Honda or Acura from the 90s, then we suggest equipping it with a two-way aftermarket alarm and perhaps a kill switch.

2. Some older Hondas don’t age well

1997 Honda Civic
1997 Honda Civic | Wikimedia Commons

Considering it’s 2021, you have to remember that some of the 90s Hondas and Acura that you’re most likely looking at are nearly 30 years old. And while it’s safe to say that they were built slightly better than the cars in the 70s, a 25-year-old car is still… old.

That being said, some of the cars that you might find on Craigslist or other classifieds can have rust, dents, or other structural issues that could negate their cheap prices. However, if you find a 90s Honda or Acura that you really want, we suggest getting it checked out by a mechanic before you commit to purchasing it.

3. Older Hondas and Acuras aren’t as safe as newer ones

Three cars collided requiring three people of four people involved to be transported to St. John Regional Medical Center by Gold Coast ambulances.
Three cars collided requiring three people of four people involved to be transported to St. John Regional Medical Center by Gold Coast ambulances. | (Photo by Steve Osman/LA Times via Getty Images)

When it comes to driving, safety is the most important factor. There’s a reason why new cars come with driver-assist features and a multitude of airbags. Honda from the 90s, however, do not. In the late 90s, Hondas and Acuras did come with dual airbags, in addition to some structural reinforcement, but that was the extent of their safety features back then.

That’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning to buy an older Honda as many of those Civics and Integras were like tin cans on four wheels. Although, those lightweight body structures did make them more fun to drive.

4. The perception of owning an older Honda is not too favorable

Two 1995 Honda Civics parked next to each other
Two 1995 Honda Civics parked next to each other | Wikimedia Commons

Believe it or not, the saying “I drive a 1999 Honda Civic” doesn’t have the same effect in 2021 that it did back in 2000. Thanks to movies like The Fast and the Furious, the allure of driving what is widely known as a “tuner car” isn’t too favorable nowadays, especially if you’re older than 16.

Of course, you really shouldn’t care what other people think about your car. But if you’re the type that does, then you might want to buy a newer Honda to maintain your street cred when someone asks you, “What kind of car do you drive?”

5. A 90s Honda can quickly turn into a money pit

This reason is mostly aimed toward the Honda enthusiasts that like to modify their cars. A typical Honda tuner will purchase a car, like a Civic or Integra, for around $3,000 and then start modifying it. All is well since parts are very cheap for these cars and you can find replacement parts at junkyards pretty easily.

However, those cheap parts can quickly add up. One day, you’ll be spending a couple of hundred dollars on an aftermarket intake and before you know it, you’ll be dropping a couple of grand on a turbo kit. The modification bug bites hard when it comes to these older Hondas and Acuras, so if you must buy one, then consider exercising some restraint.

An older Honda or Acura might be tempting, but it can lead to headaches

Buying a 90s Honda or Acura can be a great solution if you just need to be mobile and don’t have a lot of money to spend. But just remember that buying one can lead to headaches if it gets stolen or becomes a money pit. They’re great cars, just proceed with caution.

RELATED: Why Are Used Car Prices Skyrocketing Right Now?

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5 Best Electric SUVs for 2021 According to TrueCar

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The age of the electric vehicle has arrived. Electric cars have been on the road for years. In addition, multiple electric trucks are available for pre-order. And now, drivers seeking something in the middle have a range of electric SUVs to choose from.

Wondering which electric SUV is right for you? The TrueCar website just released its list of the best electric SUVs of 2021. Read on to find out how the top five electric SUVs stack up.

1. Tesla Model Y

Tesla CEO Elon Musk views the new Tesla Model Y | Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images

The Tesla Model Y is a taller, roomier version of the tried-and-true Model 3 sedan. It is comfortable for five adults, with an additional 68 cubic feet of cargo space. The Model Y does offer a third row of seating, but these seats are too small for most adults. The Model Y also features a panoramic moonroof, in-car WiFi, collision warning, and remote engine start.

This electric SUV performs exceptionally; U.S. News & World Report noted it has “excellent driving range for an EV, and its efficiency ratings are outstanding.” Estimates put the Model Y at 115 MPGe for city driving and 106MPGe for highway driving; the vehicle’s maximum range is an impressive 326 miles.

The Model Y handles and accelerates well. But performance comes at the cost of some ride comfort. Overall, TrueCar ranked the Tesla Model Y the best electric SUV of the year. We agree, naming it the best AWD EV of 2021.

The Model Y starts at $39,990. The most popular Model Y trim level is the Performance AWD, starting at $62,190.

2. Ford Mustang Mach-E

A red Ford Mach-E at the SUV's unveiling. The Ford Mach-E is one of the best Electric SUVs of 2021
Ford reveals the Mustang Mach-E | Photo by MARK RALSTON/AFP via Getty Images

Ford made a dramatic entrance to the electric car market with the Mustang Mach-E. You might expect an electric SUV with this storied nameplate to be sporty, and the Mach-E does not disappoint: it accelerates quickly and handles well. TrueCar notes that this Mustang expertly balances performance and ride comfort.

What you might not expect from a Mustang is a luxurious interior and feature set. But the Mach-E delivers in both these categories as well, securing its place among the best electric SUVs. We have raved about the fabulous Ford Mustang Mach-E here on Motorbiscuit. TrueCar specifies, “The design and feature set feels decidedly premium.” 

The Ford is rated at 100 city/86 highway MPGe for a 300-mile maximum range. Best of all, it is priced in the $40,000 range, with the popular Select AWD model starting at $46,695.

3. Volkswagen ID.4

A yellow Volkswagen ID.4 on display in Germany. The Volkswagen ID.4 is one of the Best Electric SUVs of 2021
Volkswagen ID.4 on display | Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images

The award-winning Volkswagen ID.4 is a sensible electric SUV choice: it is slightly less expensive than its competitors, but TrueCar notes it is not quite as fun to drive as the class leaders and lacks in rear legroom. 

One of this VW’s strong points is its intuitive driver controls. The ID.4 is estimated at 104 city/89 highway MPGe for a total driving range of 250 miles.

Volkswagen offers the ID.4 for as little as $41,190, and the entry-level ID.4 includes features its entry-level competitors leave out. Still, most buyers opt for the Pro S RWD trim level, starting at $45,690. An AWD trim level is available as well.

4. Tesla Model X

A gray Tesla Model X and Elon Musk at a press event. The Model X is among the best electric SUVs of 2021.
Tesla Motors CEO, Elon Musk unveils Model X | Photo by Tim Rue/Corbis via Getty Images

This midsize SUV is beginning to show its age: it is not as plush as its class-leading rivals, lacks both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offers comparatively few personalization options.

But Tesla fans swoon over the beloved Tesla Model X for a reason. With standard AWD, the Model X is known for its astounding acceleration and incredible range. With an estimated 100 city/95 highway MPGe, the Model X has a maximum range of 360 miles.

One final drawback for the Model X is its hefty price tag: Base models start at $81,190 while the popular Performance model starts at $101,190.

5. Volvo XC40

A white Volvo XC40 recharge pure EV at a press event. The XC40 Recharge EV is among the best electric SUVs of 2021.
Volvo unveils the XC40 Recharge EV | Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images

Volvo recently unveiled an all-electric version of its popular XC40. This small SUV is resplendent with both luxury and safety features; the well-designed Volvo XC40 offers a user-friendly suite of tech and smart driver aids.

TrueCar points out that the handling does not feel “quite sporty.” Still, the XC40 can accelerate from 0-60 in 4.7 seconds.

The XC40 lags behind its competitors in interior space and costs a bit more than the class leaders. While ICE-powered XC40s start at $33,097, the Recharge Pure Electric trim level starts at $53,990. 

RELATED: The Safety Features the 2021 Volvo XC90 Has That the 2021 Tesla Model X Doesn’t

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Save Thousands With Kia Telluride Instead of the Nissan Armada

by Gabrielle DeSantis

We’ve got a battle of the family haulers for you today. Do you really need the 2022 Nissan Armada with its luxury bells and whistles, or will the 2021 Kia Telluride suffice? Is saving thousands with the Kia Telluride instead of the Nissan Armada worth it? 

The 2021 Kia Telluride vs. 2022 Nissan Armada 

The 2021 Kia Telluride is one of Consumer Reports best SUVs you can buy | Kia

The pricing for the 2022 Nissan Armada was just released. It starts at about $50,395. This price includes a $500 increase from the previous model year. But the 2021 Kia Telluride comes in as much cheaper, with an MSRP of about $32,190. 

But because the Telluride is about $18,000 less than the Armada, it may include less comfort, power, and convenience features. So, let’s see which one of these three-row SUVs suits your individual needs. 

Does the Telluride or Armada have more power? 

The 2021 Kia Telluride comes with a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds, which is average for its class. But it’s not exactly sporty. 

With the 2022 Nissan Armada, you get a 5.6-liter V8 engine with 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.7 seconds. Despite having more power, it’s only about one second faster. 

You can equip the Telluride with all-wheel drive and the Armada with four-wheel drive. The Telluride can tow up to 5,000 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,565 lbs. The Armada can tow up to 8,500 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,723 lbs. If you plan on towing larger trailers and campers, then go with the Armada. 

Both the Nissan Armada and Kia Telluride have smooth brakes with limited body roll. The Telluride may have a quieter interior. Also, the Armada has larger tires, meaning it can be a bit bumpier over rough roads. 

The Telluride offers an abundance of space in each row, but the front passenger seat is slightly limited on leg space. The Armada has a smaller third-row seat, and the captain’s chairs in the second row are fixed in place. 

Does the Armada or Telluride have better features? 

The 2022 Nissan Armada full-size SUV model in red parked outside of a house at sunset
The 2022 Nissan Armada full-size SUV model | Nissan Motor Corporation

The 2022 Nissan Armada has 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 95.4 cubic feet total. With the 2021 Kia Telluride, you get 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 87 cubic feet total. 

Both SUVs offer plenty of luxury touches such as heated and ventilated seats, open-pore wood trim, leather upholstery, and optional captain’s chairs. The power-folding third row in the Armada could be faster. 

The Armada comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the front, and dual 8.0-inch screens in the rear are optional. The Telluride has a standard 8.0-inch screen that can be upgraded to a 10.3-inch display. Both offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the Armada can connect wirelessly. 

Both the Armada and Telluride offer standard automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The Telluride also features standard forward-collision warning. 

The Nissan Armada may have a few extra luxury touches and offers a lot more muscle for towing. But the Kia Telluride provides plenty of power, space, and comfort. If you don’t need the extra bells and whistles, you can save thousands.

RELATED: Most Frustrating Issues 2021 Kia Telluride Owners Deal With

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