Listen to the 2023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Shriek

by Gabrielle DeSantis

It’s no secret that hotter, sharper versions of the C8 Chevrolet Corvette are in the works. And one of the most anticipated is the track-focused Corvette Z06. But with the COVID-19 pandemic throwing wrenches in the works, no one was sure when the Z06 would show up. That is, up until Chevy released its new teaser video.

The C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is coming in loud for 2023

2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8.R | Chevrolet

Ever since it debuted on the 2001 C5 Corvette, the Z06 trim has been the ‘Vette to get for track-day enthusiasts. And starting with the last-gen C7 model, the street-going car has been developed alongside the race car, further strengthening the track connections. Combine that with the C8 Chevrolet Corvette’s mid-engine layout, and you have a recipe for a sharp supercar. Not to mention plenty of hype.

The hype arguably dimmed slightly in recent months, though, owing to the relative lack of new C8 Corvette Z06 developments. While rumors of its release have circled for months, ‘regular’ C8 demand and pandemic-related supply issues seemingly delayed it. But in a recent teaser video, shown below, Chevrolet revealed that the wait is almost over.

As it’s a teaser, the video doesn’t explicitly reveal any technical details about the C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06. But it does deliver a dose of what the Z06’s exhaust sounds like, interspersed amongst visuals of racetracks and tree-lined streets. And it confirms that the C8 Z06 is coming for the 2023 model year.

Will the 2023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 use the rumored flat-plane-crank V8?

The 2020 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray 6.2-liter V8
2020 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray 6.2-liter V8 | Chevrolet

So, we know the C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is happening and it’s on the way. But although the teaser doesn’t show the car at all, it might reveal a key detail about its engine.

To be sure, the 2023 Z06 won’t deviate from the C8 Chevrolet Corvette’s rear-wheel-drive mid-engine layout. And it’s safe to assume its powerplant will be a V8. However, it might not be the same 6.2-liter V8 found in the regular C8. That’s because the engine in the teaser video doesn’t sound like a pushrod-actuated V8, MotorTrend says. Nor does it sound like the supercharged V8 the C7 Z06 used. Instead, it sounds like a naturally-aspirated flat-plane-crank V8, like the one in the C8.R race car.

Flat-plane-crank V8s are a rarity amongst American cars, which is why the recently-deceased Shelby GT350 was so unique. But while they vibrate more than ‘conventional’ cross-plane crank V8s, they’re also lighter, more compact, and rev both faster and higher, MotorTrend explains. Plus, flat-plane engines don’t suffer from the same exhaust-gas scavenging issues as cross-plane engines, so they tend to be more powerful. That’s why Ferrari supercars and high-end sports cars like the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series use them.

It’s worth noting that Chevrolet hasn’t confirmed that the C8 Corvette Z06 uses a flat-plane-crank V8. However, MotorTrend claims that an anonymous GM insider confirmed this detail. Furthermore, MotorTrend says the 5.5-liter V8 will make 615-625 hp and roughly 480 lb-ft of torque. If that’s true, that would make the C8 Z06 more powerful than the C8.R.

When will we learn more about it?

Given that it’s designed around track driving, the 2023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will likely offer extra aero features, bigger brakes, and wider, grippier tires, Road & Track muses. Though as of this writing, Chevrolet has neither confirmed nor denied this.

But Chevrolet did confirm when it would release more information about the mid-engine super sports car. The automaker plans to announce 2023 Z06 availability in fall 2021. So, mark your calendars and prepare your ears.

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RELATED: This Limited-Edition 2022 Chevy Corvette Looks Like a Champion

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3 Best Compact SUVs of 2021 According to TrueCar

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Compact SUVs are a popular segment, and myriad models are available. Some of the better options include the usual suspects, including the Hyundai Tucson. But one of the most popular crossovers, the Toyota RAV4, is also a solid choice in one specific version. Here’s a look at the three best compact SUVs of 2021, according to TrueCar.

The 2021 Ford Escape provides plenty of value

TrueCar recently published a list of the 10 best compact SUVs right now, and many SUVs on the list weren’t unexpected. For example, the Volvo XC60, Kia Niro, Infiniti QX50, Ford Bronco Sport, Toyota RAV4, Tesla Model Y, and Nissan Rogue all made the top 10, but none was in the top three.

The third-best compact SUV of the year, according to TrueCar, was the Ford Escape. TrueCar liked the Escape because of how sporty it looked and how economical its powertrain options were. On top of that, the Escape had plenty of cabin and cargo capacity, and Ford gave the Escape a lot of smart features. 

However, while the Escape looks sporty, TrueCar wrote that it wasn’t that fun to drive, especially compared to its peers. Furthermore, while the Escape had plenty of cabin space, its cabin doesn’t use the best materials. Regardless, since the Escape starts at about $27,000, it’s an affordable compact SUV that provides a lot of value to families.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime ranks high for its powertrain

2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime | Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Though the regular RAV4 was in sixth place, the RAV4 Prime, the plug-in hybrid version of the RAV4, ended up in second place on TrueCar’s list. The main reason why the RAV4 Prime did so well was simple. The regular RAV4 is pretty good as is, but the Prime makes it even better. Not only does the RAV4 Prime get a PHEV powertrain, but it also gets all-wheel drive as standard.

The RAV4 Prime gets about 40 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on highways, according to TrueCar, and that makes it economical. Furthermore, because it’s a PHEV, it can also go about 42 miles in battery-only mode, and that’s a fine range for short commutes. That said, while the RAV4 Prime improves on the RAV4 in many ways, unfortunately, Toyota had to make some adjustments that hurt the PHEV. 

Obviously, it won’t be cheap, as the RAV4 Prime starts at about $39,000, about $12,000 more than the regular RAV4. Furthermore, to make room for the battery pack, the RAV4 Prime lost some cargo capacity when compared to the regular RAV4. 

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson tops them all

Although the Hyundai Tucson is in the 2022 model year, it’s been available in the U.S. since 2021. Regardless, it’s earned its spot at the top, mostly thanks to the fact that it’s the first model year of the fourth generation of the Tucson. According TrueCar wrote, one of the best things about the Tucson is its abundant cabin and cargo space. 

Not only that, but the 2022 Tucson’s interior also has a sophisticated style. Plus, Hyundai packed the Tucson with myriad standard safety features. TrueCar wrote that those safety features were “user-friendly.” However, the same can’t be said for the Tucson’s infotainment system. 

The Tucson isn’t a perfect compact SUV, and TrueCar said that it has “finicky touch-sensitive controls.” Furthermore, though it’s a comfortable and spacious SUV for any family, it’s not very sporty. That said, there are three economical powertrain options available. Furthermore, because the Tucson starts at about $26,000, it’s a compact SUV that many families can afford.

RELATED: Hyundai Snags Disney to Drive ‘Unprecedented’ 2022 Tucson Debut

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The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Is Great if you Don’t Need Speed

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Have you allowed your eyes to feast on the new Hyundai Tucson? It’s about time to take a serious look. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson has an attractive unique look that brings the heat. However, it may only look the part. 

Is the 2022 Hyundai Tucson worth buying? 

2022 Hyundai Tucson | Hyundai

Yes, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson is an excellent SUV to consider. It sports a brand new look that turns heads and is filled with value. You can get standard in the new Tucson for about $24,950, and plenty of standard features are included. 

Along with its new aggressive and confident style, the interior has been upgraded to include luxury materials and upgraded tech, such as a 10.3-inch digital gauge display. However, buyers attracted to its sporty look and racing feel may be disappointed. 

The 2022 Tucson is a little sluggish 

According to MotorTrend, the 2022 Hyundai Tucson is underpowered. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. This amount of power is great on paper, but it took the Tucson 9.3 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. 

The 2022 Tucson Hybrid might be a little faster. It has a 1.6-liter turbo I4 engine that’s paired with a 1.5-kWh battery to generate 226 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. But according to Driving.Ca, it sounds more impressive than it is. The Hybrid Tucson can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds, but this is slower than competitors such as the Toyota RAV4 Prime. 

While the acceleration is awkward, the transmission doesn’t help improve the sporty feel. It’s stingy and hesitates with downshifts. But on a positive note, the handling provides an excellent grip and is pretty responsive. 

But critics can’t ignore the Tucson’s stiff ride. It’s not too harsh or bumpy, but it’s notably firmer than rivals. A softer suspension would be a better match for its sluggish acceleration. It would also increase comfort for daily drivers. 

What do critics like about the Hyundai Tucson? 

2022 Hyundai Tucson interior
2022 Hyundai Tucson interior | Hyundai

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson PHEV offers a 32-mile electric range. Plus, the Plug-in Hybrid Tucson has an estimated fuel economy of 70 MPGe. With the 7.-kW onboard charger, you can fully recharge the battery in about two hours. 

But it will have to be connected to a Level 2 charging station. With the gas-powered Tucson, you get an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and up to 33 mpg on the highway. This is an average fuel economy. 

The new Tucson has more cargo space and passenger room than the previous generation. There are 38.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 80.3 cubes total. You’ll find that there’s plenty of space for installing child’s seats. 

You can relax in the comfortable interior with its quiet ride and spacious seats. The layout provides an excellent view of the road, and everything is easy to reach. But there could be more physical buttons and dials instead of touchscreen controls. 

An 8.8-inch touchscreen comes standard, but you can upgrade to a 10.3-inch screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included. Be sure to take advantage of the Hyundai digital key smartphone app, which can unlock the doors and has remote start. 

Standard safety features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. You can add adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. 

If you can get past the sluggish acceleration, the Hyundai Tucson is a great option to consider. It includes tons of features with its price and provides a luxurious feel for comfortable trips and commutes.

RELATED: 3 Reasons to Pass on the 2021 Hyundai Tucson

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The Tesla Model S Plaid vs Pininfarina Battista

by Gabrielle DeSantis

As cars get more powerful, we’re reaching the point where they can’t get any faster. Both the Tesla Model S Plaid and the Pininfarina Battista boast shocking similar 0-60 times, they’re both expensive, and they’re both luxurious. And yet, they couldn’t be more different. One is a fast car while the other is a ridiculous hypercar. And a deeper dive into these electric cars may prove we’re hitting our speed limit.

Tesla Model S Plaid | Tesla

The Tesla Model S Plaid is the affordable and attainable option

The Tesla Model S is a 4 seater sedan, a car that would fit the lifestyle of most people (minus the pricetag and electric car drawbacks). Its interior is comfortable and its touchscreen is usable. Sure, there’s the odd yoke steering wheel, but beyond that, the Tesla is your typical road car. The only difference an added bonus of ludicrous speed.

Paying homage to the movie Spaceballs, “going Plaid” is the equivalent of going beyond light speed. And with 1050 horsepower from the tri-engine layout, the Model S does just that. On a prepared track and under the perfect circumstances, the car gets from 0-60 in 1.98 seconds. According to Motortrend, however, in the real world, the Plaid does it in 2.28 seconds. That’s still wicked fast, and proves how effective electric powertrains can be.

But the Model S Plaid is also attainable. At least, it’s more attainable than the Pininfarina, but more on that in a moment. The Model S Plaid costs just under $125,000 and can be ordered on Tesla’s website by anyone with the coin. The Battista, on the other hand, is a bit more exclusive.

The Pininfarina Battista is an ultra rare powerhouse

Pininfarina Battista Electric Hyper Car In Parking Lot
Pininfarina Battista Electric Hyper Car | Pininfarina

Okay, by a bit more exclusive, we mean a lot more. The car will cost $2.6 million dollars (that makes the plaid look cheap), though that price tag does reflect the fact that only 150 will be made. This includes the five cars being fitted with more power to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Pininfarina. In essence, this electric hypercar is bred to be on the track and look good while doing it.

The power figures alone are enough to prove that: in total, the car makes 1900 horsepower. Top speed? 218mph. But perhaps the most interesting factoid is how close the Pininfarina’s 0-60 time is to the Tesla Model S. On a prepped track, the Tesla can make the sprint in 1.98 seconds. Pininfarina claims the Battista will do it in 1.9. That’s only .08 seconds faster (or .3 seconds depending on the surface) than the Model S Plaid. A couple hundredths of a second faster for a hypercar that costs a couple million dollars more. It begs the question: have we hit our limit?

When will we hit our top speed?

Pininfarina Battista racing on the track
Pininfarina Battista | Pininfarina

Alright, let’s talk science: the original theory was that the fastest a car could ever accelerate was linked to how fast something accelerates due to gravity (9.8m/s). After crunching the numbers, that’d mean a car would have to get to 60mph in 2.7 seconds in order to beat gravity, which our two contenders have. But the variables being taken into account haven’t changed.

Friction with the road and air pressure are clearly putting up a fight. The horsepower difference between the Tesla and the Pininfarina is 850, and yet that only takes .3 seconds off the 0-60 time. But how about this: if the difference were double that, at 1700, would this theoretical hypercar be .6 seconds faster? The answer would likely be no. It might be .15 seconds faster, but to know for sure you’d have to grab a calculator and figure out some exponential growth. In other words, it’s complicated.

As is the dynamic between these two cars. Their 0-60 times make them comparable, but in every other way they’re opposites. One will be used as a grocery getter and the other will be put on display, rarely seeing the light of day. Though the do have one other thing in common: I want to drive them both.

RELATED: Is the Tesla Model S Plaid the Fastest Production Car You Can Buy?

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