Should You Buy the 2021 Mazda CX-30 or 2021 Hyundai Kona?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Is the 2021 Mazda CX-30 or 2021 Hyundai Kona a better midsize SUV? Consumer Reports looks at several categories when deciding, including reliability, road test, and safety features. Let’s examine each of these to see which SUV Consumer Reports thinks is the better choice. 

2021 Hyundai Kona | Hyundai

The 2021 Hyundai Kona’s road test score is higher 

Although their overall scores are very similar, the 2021 Hyundai Kona’s Consumer Reports road test score is higher, at a 76 to a 64. What makes the Kona’s score higher?

The brakes on the Kona score higher than the CX-30. While the CX-30’s brakes are excellent, at a 5/5, the Kona’s brakes score a perfect 5/5. The Hyundai Kona can brake from 60 mph on dry pavement in 129 feet and 131 feet on wet pavement. On the other hand, the CX-30 takes 133 feet to brake on dry pavement and 147 feet on wet pavement.

It’s worth noting that the 2021 Mazda CX-30 gets a better acceleration score, at a 3. It can reach 0 to 60 in 8.7 seconds. The Kona’s acceleration isn’t great, at a 2/5. It takes the Kona 11.1 seconds to go from 0 to 60. 

Reliability in both the 2021 Hyundai Kona and 2021 Mazda CX-30 Is Fantastic

You can’t go wrong with either the Mazda CX-30 or the Kona in terms of reliability. They each score a 5/5 in Consumer Reports’ metrics. The 2020 also had an excellent reliability rating, with just the power equipment noted as less-than-perfect. The 2020 Kona had no problem areas.

Surprisingly, these high reliability scores don’t necessarily translate to happy owners. Although the predicted owner satisfaction in the Mazda CX-30 is a very good 4/5, owner satisfaction in the Kona is just a 3. The predicted satisfaction driving experience for the 2021 Hyundai Kona is just a 67, and comfort is a 56. Contrasting this with the Mazda CX-30, the driving experience is an 87 and the comfort is a 78.

Their safety ratings and features are nearly identical

Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking for the city, lane keeping assistance, and lane departure warning are all standard in the 2021 Hyundai Kona. So are a rear view camera, anti lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and daytime running lights. 

Optional are blind spot warning, pedestrian detection, and rear cross traffic warning. Automatic emergency braking for the highway isn’t an option in the 2021 Hyundai Kona.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 comes with even more. Standard are forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking for the city and highway, lane keeping assistance, lane departure warning, and pedestrian detection. So are a rear view camera, anti lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and daytime running lights. 

Optional are blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning. 

As you can see, it’s a pretty tight race between these two subcompact SUVs. Their scores are almost identical, and even the subcategory ratings are strikingly similar. Still, the 2021 Hyundai Kona beats the 2021 Mazda CX-30 by one point, and with its slightly higher road test score, it makes sense. Still, you really can’t go wrong with either the 2021 Hyundai Kona or the 2021 Mazda CX-30.

RELATED: 4 Consumer Reports Recommended Three-Row SUVs With Captain’s Chairs

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Why Was the 1993 Land Rover Defender 110 Added to the NHTSA’s Blacklist?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Different car models are sold in different countries because they don’t all meet the regulations of every country. The United States has rigorous safety and emissions regulations, in addition to other market restrictions. This means there is quite a list of banned cars in the U.S. that also can’t be imported. This list includes some models of the Land Rover Defender 110. While the Defender 110 was on the NHTSA’s blacklist, the 1993 model year was still eligible to be imported.

The Land Rover Defender 110 made the blacklist

An old Land Rover Defender model | Michael Kovac/Getty Images

The Land Rover Defender has been around since 1983. This four-wheel-drive, off-road vehicle was based on the original Land Rover from 1948. The Defender 110 was first sold in North America in 1993, says Automoblog. However, U.S. regulations required that this version was a modified model.

The Defender didn’t pass the U.S. Department of Transportation’s new safety regulations for 1998, and Land Rover then ended its sales in the U.S. One of its big issues was that it didn’t have airbags or other modern safety features, points out Motor1. Production of the Defender 110 ended entirely in 2016 before returning recently in 2020.

With the Defender 110 only sold in the U.S. for a few short years, there is a lot of interest in importing the vehicle. Vehicles older than 25 years don’t have to meet current regulations, but the NHTSA used to have the 1993 Defender 110 on its list of nonconforming motor vehicles that could be imported even before the model was more than 25 years ago.

What is the NHTSA’s blacklist?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is tasked with deciding which vehicles are safe for use in the United States, says duPont Registry Daily. The NHTSA has a long list of foreign cars that aren’t permitted to be imported, according to HotCars. These vehicles don’t meet the regulations, ranging from everyday cars to luxury sports cars.

There are currently Land Rover models that appear on the NHTSA’s blacklist. The NHTSA says the 2016 Land Rover Defender 110 Adventure, 2013 Land Rover Defender 110 Hunter, and 2000 and 2001 Land Rover Defender 130 are not eligible for importation for show or display. The NHTSA does say that the 2016 Land Rover Defender Celebration Autobiography and the 2016 Land Rover Defender Celebration Heritage are both eligible for importation for show or display.

The new Land Rover Defender

The Land Rover Defender returned to the United States for the 2020 model year. This Defender is still boxy, says Car and Driver, but it is all new. The 110 has four doors, and the 90 has two doors. However, these numbers no longer indicate wheelbase measurements. The design is more practical and utilitarian than most Range Rover models, although the Defender and the full-size Range Rover share the D7 architecture.

The Defender’s primary engine is a mild-hybrid P400 six-cylinder. The system produces 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, giving it more than twice the output of older Defender engines, points out Car and Driver. It will zip from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Meanwhile, the 2015 model could do 0 to 62 mph in 12.7 seconds.

A 296-hp two-liter P300 four-cylinder turbocharged engine is also available, and it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds. Buyers in Europe have two diesel engines to pick from as well. The new 2020 Land Rover Defender comes with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, and the old manual transmission is no longer available. It features great off-road capabilities with a ground clearance of 11.5 inches and a wading depth of 35 to 43 inches.

While the NHTSA doesn’t permit all Defenders to be imported, some can legally be brought into the United States. That does include the 1993 Land Rover Defender 110. However, the new Defender, introduced in 2020, should be considered since it’s being sold in the U.S.

RELATED: Illegal Vehicles Banned in America

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2021 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro: Which Is the Best AWD SUV?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Shopping for the best four-wheel drive (4WD) SUV to hit the trails with? Chances are, you’ve got both the 2021 Jeep Wrangler and the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro on your list. But of the two rugged new SUVs, which is the best 4WD SUV for your trail-riding needs?

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offers plenty of options

When compared to the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler offers a slew of options to choose from. All models come standard with 4WD. This year’s Wrangler is also available in two body styles, both a two-door SUV or a more spacious four-door SUV. All Jeep Wrangler models come standard with a removable soft-top too. However, all Jeep Wrangler models are also available with a hardtop. 

And when it comes to what’s under the hood? Jeep Wrangler models can be had with two different 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engines, a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine, a 6.4-liter V8, or a 2.0-liter turbo engine. Perhaps even more enticing is the all-new Wrangler 4xe, a plug-in hybrid Jeep that offers up to 21 miles of electric-only range, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) reports. 

As for the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro? It comes standard with a 4.0-liter V6 engine. It also comes standard with part-time 4WD. Unfortunately, the TRD Pro doesn’t offer any additional engine options. In fact, the 4Runner only offers one engine option. It can only be had as a four-door SUV too. 

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro does have its advantages

2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro | Toyota

While the 2021 Jeep Wrangler offers significantly more options when it comes to what’s under the hood, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro does have its advantages. Take, for example, the 4Runner TRD Pro’s max tow rating. This year’s model is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. Meanwhile, all Jeep Wrangler models max out at 3,500 pounds.

The 4Runner TRD Pro also boasts better reliability ratings than its Wrangler competition. In fact, Consumer Reports awarded the 2021 Toyota 4Runner a five out of five reliability rating. Meanwhile, the organization gave this year’s new Jeep Wrangler a two out of five predicted reliability rating. The 4Runner also earned significantly higher scores in Consumer Reports’ road tests. 

How much do these new 4WD SUVs cost?

A grey 2021 Jeep® Wrangler Rubicon 392 climbing up a sandy hill
2021 Jeep® Wrangler Rubicon 392 | Stellantis

If you’re shopping on a strict budget, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro may not be the best fit for you. While a base model 4Runner costs approximately $36,765, the TRD Pro rings in at $50,745. That’s a significant price difference. As for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler?

As it turns out, it’s a cheaper alternative to the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro. Base models start at $28,900, making it the ideal pick for those in the market for a new SUV under $30,000. Several Jeep Wrangler models cost well under $40,000 too.

Which is the best 4WD SUV for you?

If you’re planning to hit the trails anytime soon, you really can’t go wrong with either of these 4WD SUVs. But when it comes to choosing the best 4WD SUV for you? We recommend taking both the 2021 Jeep Wrangler and the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro out for a test drive. 

RELATED: 3 Best 4WD Trucks of 2021 According to TrueCar

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Chrysler and Dodge Minivans Investigated for Broken Sliding Doors

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Chrysler and Dodge’s minivans are no strangers in the complaint department. Owners have dealt with problems ranging from the Totally Integrated Power Module to various electrical issues. It’s not really surprising to see them back in the limelight because of another problem. 

According to Automotive News, owners are dealing with a frustrating issue with the 2016 model. There were so many complaints that the NHTSA is now involved.

What’s so appealing about the Chrysler and Dodge minivans?

Chrysler Service Bay | Getty Images

The Chrysler Pacifica and Voyager minivans are good vehicles for families that need extra room. They come with plenty of standard safety features, like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and forward-collision warning. 

You’ll find that these vans receive some of the highest safety crash test ratings, which most families look for in a vehicle. The Chrysler Pacifica comes in both a gas and a hybrid powertrain, which helps increase gas mileage. It’s even an award winner with the 2021 model. 

FCA has made quite a few changes following its merger with Chrysler, which is now under the Stellantis brand. The decision to eliminate a few of the vehicles from its lineup seemed a bit rushed. Dodge Grand Caravan ended its production run in 2020, despite some pretty decent sales figures. Last year’s models are still up for sale in the 2021 model year. Dodge also dropped the Journey as well.

What problem are they seeing with the Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country?

Some 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan and Town & Country minivan owners have been slightly upset by an annoying problem with the power sliding doors. They find that when they go to open it, the doors won’t budge. The remote fob, electronic controls, or mechanical handles will get it to unlatch or unlock. Some owners had an issue with only one of the doors, while others dealt with both not unlatching. 

NHTSA received about 476 complaints regarding this issue. Drivers reported that they had to have their passengers exit or enter the vehicle through the front, the other sliding door if it was operable, or the rear gate, which made it very inconvenient. 

According to Car Complaints, many owners felt it could be a safety issue if the doors don’t open when an emergency arises. Some drivers remarked that sometimes there would be a loud buzzing noise. This would happen when they locked or unlocked the door. 

How is it being addressed and will there be a recall?

At this time, there’s no recall issued for it, but NHTSA figures there are an estimated 233,084 vans that could be affected by this problem, so they’ve begun the process of investigating it. This is where they will contact the automaker to get the necessary data from their end. A spokesman for Stellantis said they would fully cooperate with the evaluation. 

It appears the issue isn’t new, and Chrysler has known about it for a few years. In 2016, the automaker issued a technical service bulletin to its service dealers. The instructions were to replace the door lock actuator for each door that was not unlatching to open up. The problem was sometimes covered under the vehicle’s warranty, but some had it happen after it expired, and they had to pay out of pocket. 

The investigation will determine whether a safety issue is found with the problem. If there is, investigators will send a request to Stellantis to issue a recall for the problem. If they don’t feel there’s a safety issue, they close the case with no further action required. 

Chrysler brand minivans are decent vehicles otherwise. Stellantis needs to step up and make good on fixing the locking problem and not have their loyal customers get stuck paying the bill. 

RELATED: The 2021 Chrysler Voyager L Is on the Right End of This List

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