The 2021 Chevy Silverado Duramax Diesel Faces Trouble

by Gabrielle DeSantis

We’re getting a little tired of saying goodbye to diesel engines, so we hope the 2021 Chevy Silverado Duramax engine sticks around. However, the Chevy Silverado 1500 diesel engine may need to make some changes to survive. 

The 2021 Chevy Silverado Duramax engine needs updating 

2021 Chevrolet Silverado RST | Chevrolet

First of all, for a little background information, the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 can be equipped with the 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine Duramax diesel engine. It generates 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. 

It gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and up 33 mpg on the highway, giving it the best-in-class fuel economy. It costs about $2,390 to upgrade to the Duramax engine. This is a pretty good deal because the Ford PowerStroke diesel engine is a $4,995 upgrade. 

But the Ford PowerStroke diesel engine just got dropped, so we’re worried about the future of the Duramax. The PowerStroke was dropped because it wasn’t a prevalent option, and the hybrid engine is more efficient. 

Silverado Duramax issues 

The 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine in the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 may have a design flaw. People quickly pointed out that an oil pump belt resides in oil, and it needs to be inspected at 150,000 miles. 

It’s an oil belt, not a chain or gear drive. Also, you have to drop the transmission to service the belt. That’s a lot of work and costs about $1,000 for a mechanic to do the inspection. But at least it’s a one-time inspection. 

Some people claim that the engine can be damaged from belt failure, but there isn’t much-supporting evidence to back up this claim. Hopefully, the 3.0-liter has good self-preservation software and doesn’t rely on the driver paying attention to the oil pressure and all to detect a problem. 

Plus, the Duramax lost the automatic start-stop feature, which ruffles some feathers. This decision was made to preserve semiconductor chips during the ongoing global shortage. 

This way, large General Motors trucks, and SUVs can still be manufactured without delays. As a result, the fuel economy is lowered, and the way the truck drives is a little different. But some drivers prefer not using the start-stop feature. 

Will the 2022 Silverado have the Duramax engine? 

A white 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 towing a boat
2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 | Chevrolet

The aging Chevy Silverado is due for a total interior refresh and may gain exterior changes as well. The 2021 Chevy Silverado will be similar to the 2022 model until the 2022i updates emerge later in the year. 

As the exterior and interior changes to gain the General Motors Global B electrical architecture, the engines may need to be reworked. The Duramax’s design may not be cut out for the job, especially when hybrid and electric powertrains are on the way. 

The future of the Duramax engine remains uncertain as rivals drop diesel powertrains. But the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has caused a few delays for the new 2022 Silverado. So, we will have to wait a little longer than expected to learn more. But we would love to see this engine in the upcoming 2022 Chevy Silverado ZR2 model! 

RELATED: The Chevy Silverado Leaves The Nissan Titan In The Dust

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What Is the Most Reliable Used Toyota 4Runner Model Year?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Toyota 4Runner is a well-loved rugged SUV that Toyota originally released in the 1980s. Those throwback models are pretty cool, but those looking for a reliable used SUV are more likely to shop in the fourth or fifth (current) 4Runner generations, depending on their budget. It’s actually not difficult to find a good used 4Runner, but what is the most reliable used Toyota 4Runner model year?

WASHINGTON, USA 2017 Toyota 4-Runner | Samuel Corum/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

Are fourth generation Toyota 4Runner models good used SUVs?

A grey 2009 Toyota 4Runner on the trails, the 2009 Toyota 4Runner is one of the best used three-row SUVs under $15,000
2009 Toyota 4Runner | Toyota

For someone looking for a capable and reliable used SUV, the fourth generation Toyota 4Runner is a good place to look. These 4Runner models came with either a standard 245 hp 4.0 liter V6 or an optional 4.7 liter V8 that makes up to 265 hp. The fourth 4Runner generation is reliable in general, and the generation ran from 2003-2009. However, there are more reliable years than others. 

The most reliable Toyota 4Runner model year from the fourth generation is 2008. The 2008 Toyota 4Runner is recommended by Vehicle History. In addition, the 2008 4Runner earned the Dependability Award from J.D. Power. 

It boasts a “Great” reliability score of 87/100, and was the No.1 SUV in its class according to consumers. The 2007 model year earned a Quality award and also came out on top as the No. 1 SUV among its competitors.

J.D. Power also gave the  2004 and 2005 Toyota 4Runner model years each a Quality Award. Vehicle History reports that the early model years are less reliable than those produced after 2005. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean used SUV buyers should avoid these, it just means that shopping between the years 2005 and 2009 are the best models for the fourth Toyota 4Runner generation. 

How reliable is the Toyota 4Runner? 

A white 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD pro climbing rocks on mountain trails
2020 Toyota 4Runner | Toyota

According to J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, the Toyota 4Runner is one of the most reliable SUVs money can buy. For this reason, it is a great choice for a used SUV. The current fifth generation started in 2010. That means even a 10 year old Toyota 4Runner will have similar body and interior style to the 2021 models that are fresh on the lot. 

But which fifth Toyota 4Runner generation models are the best? According to J.D. Power reliability ratings, the 2010-2013 4Runners all have “Great” reliability scores. Consumers named the 2010, 2011, and 2012 model years No. 1 and the 2012 Toyota 4Runner took a No. 2 spot. 

The 2014-2016 Toyota 4Runner model years all came out on the high end of “Average” J.D. Power reliability scores with ratings between 78/100 and 80/100. For the last two decades, the rough and tumble 4Runner has remained in the top 5 in its class. 

2017 is the most reliable used Toyota 4Runner model year 

While virtually every model has the potential to be a good reliable used SUV, the 2017 model year is the most reliable used Toyota 4runner model year. The fifth and current generation started in 2010 and most are equipped with a 4.0 liter V6 engine. Both the 2018 and 2017 models earned the No. 1 spot from consumers according to J.D. Power. However, the 2017 model has a higher reliability rating. 

In addition, the 2017 Toyota 4Runner earned a J.D. Power Dependability Award. This capable used SUV has a reliability rating of 88/100. In 2017, the 4Runner added some trim levels and from here on offers three designated TRD models.

That said, 4Runner models hold their value well so even used models tend to be pretty expensive. J.D. Power reports an average price for a used Toyota 4Runner to be between $23,992 – $49,884.

This is a good off-road SUV, but it’s not for everyone

a 2017 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro on Display at an indoor auto show
2017 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro | Raymond Boyd/Getty Images

The 2017 Toyota 4Runner is a good reliable used SUV. In fact, it’s the most reliable Toyota 4Runner model year. A utilitarian off-roader, the 4Runner also offers a wide range of trim levels.

However, U.S. News and World Report points out that the number of available advanced safety features is pretty slim. Combine that with rugged ride quality and low fuel economy and it’s easy to see that, although it certainly has its niche appeal, the Toyota 4Runner isn’t for everyone. It may be a capable used SUV, but it doesn’t always tick all the boxes for particular buyers.

RELATED: There Are Definitely Good Used Cars to Buy Under $10,000

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What Are the Top 10 Luxury Car Brands?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Luxury car brands have come a long way in recent years. Technology is more affordable than ever, which has made luxury cars more affordable. Which luxury car brands are at the top of the list for new cars these days?

Volvo is one of the top luxury car brands

Volvo is one of the best luxury car brands | Volvo

U.S. News has a list of the best luxury car brands of 2021. Volvo has a reputation for building safe and sophisticated luxury cars. Some of the popular cars from Volvo include the 2021 Volvo S60, the XC40, and the XC90. Volvo luxury vehicles tend to be a bit more minimal but get a lot of features right. Refined, safe, and a variety of drivetrains make this brand a good pick.

Lincoln also produces reliable luxury cars

The Lincoln brand focuses mostly on luxury SUVs and crossovers over cars. Lincoln is known for large luxury SUVs, but there has been a change to meet market demand. The Lincoln Corsair, Aviator, and Navigator are all popular choices. For 2021, the vehicles switched from a heavy V8 to a more efficient twin-turbo V6. The Aviator also got a plug-in hybrid powertrain option. As the brand killed off the MKZ and Continential this year, the overall reliability of the lineup should improve.

Jaguar is also a luxury car brands

The 2022 Jaguar I-Pace Black parked on a highway road in the desert
2022 Jaguar I-Pace Black | Jaguar USA

Almost the opposite of Lincoln, Jaguar is a luxury car brand with a light interest in SUVs. Since consumers seem interested in crossovers and smaller SUVs these days, Jaguar added the F-Pace compact SUV for 2021. This offers a few different engine options. Jaguar also has the XJ and F-Type in the lineup. Unfortunately, Jaguar is not known for reliability. The cars are expensive to buy and expensive to fix, which leaves something to be desired.

Everyone knows BMW offers reliable luxury cars

BMW is known for being a luxury car brand with some fast cars and SUVs in the lineup. BMW offers sedans, SUVs, convertibles, and even the occasional race car. Much like the others on the list, the subcompact BMW X1 SUV and the BMW X7 have been added to appease customers. The 3-Series, 2-Series, 4-Series, 8-Series, and Z4 are also in the mix. BMW tends to have a pretty big lineup, and all of the vehicles sell relatively well, except the 2-Series.

Mercedes-Benz is a well-rounded luxury car brand

The Mercedes-Benz brand is fairly synonymous with luxury across the world. Like BMW, Mercedes-Benz has an extensive lineup with a variety of cars and SUVs. The S-Class and the SL are classic offerings, while the new crossover and smaller SUVs are popular and reliable. Plus, the AMG vehicles offer more power for buyers who appreciate such an option. The interiors are top of the line, and the designs of the vehicles certainly turn heads. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz has a few new performance-based cars like the AMG-GT that have been popular. The new A-Class and GLB offer a more affordable entry-level vehicle for the luxury car brand.

No your eyes don’t decieve you, Kia is on the list

In recent years, U.S. News would not include Kia on a luxury car brand list. However, times are changing, and Kia is too. The Kia 900 and Stinger vehicles have both stepped up for the brand, and buyers have noticed. Both of these vehicles have above-average predicted reliability ratings, plus the industry-leading Kia warranty. The Stinger and 900 have a lot to offer drivers, and it is likely Kia continues to expand the luxury car offerings in the future.

Audi was included, but not for reliability

Audi sells many models in the U.S., including sedans, coupes, crossovers, and even a supercar. In years past, the reliability ratings for Audi haven’t been great. The brand has improved that, with most of the lineup scoring at least average reliability ratings. Audi offers the A3, A4, A6, A8, A5, A7, TT, and R8. For SUVs, the Q3, Q5, Q7, and Q8 are offered. Though the vehicle names are anything but creative, the extensive lineup is still impressive. Don’t overlook the Quattro all-wheel drive system, either.

Tesla vehicles are packed with luxury and technology

Tesla offers only electric vehicles, and that it does well. Tesla once offered a roadster and eventually offered a Cubertruck, but mostly focuses on sedans and an SUV. The new Tesla Model S has made quite a splash for its impressive speed numbers, while the Tesla Model 3 is an all-around crowd-pleaser. The Model X SUV and Model Y crossover have a little more room for families. These are fairly expensive, except the Model 3, but have enough technology to make it worthwhile.

Genesis is new but solid reliable luxury car brand

An image of a 2021 Genesis G80 parked outdoors.
2021 Genesis G80

The Genesis brand is another one that U.S. News might not have included a few years back. Part of the Hyundai brand, Genesis focuses on luxury sedans and SUVs with high safety ratings. With that, the reliability ratings are also worth nothing. The Hyundai warranty is 10-years, 100,000-miles, which matches the Kia warranty. U.S. News suggests the 2021 Genesis G70 as the top-rated luxury small car on the list.

Don’t count out the Porsche brand

Porsche is a luxury car brand that does it all! The Porsche 911 was even rated the most dependable car of 2021 by J.D. Power. The brand has won the Best Luxury Brand from U.S. News for two years in a row, and that’s no surprise. Porsche offers the Boxter, Cayman, and 911 for smaller cars. The Panamera is a newer four-door sports car option, and the Taycan is a new electric option. The Cayenne and Macan also satisfy the SUV categories. Porsche is a well-rounded brand that can be expensive but also offers a reliable lineup for buyers.

Overall, brands have been pivoting to listen to market demand, and buyers seem to notice. While some luxury car brands focus on either cars or SUVs, it is becoming more likely to have a more well-rounded lineup. Don’t overlook the reliable luxury cars and warranties. While some of these might cost more upfront, the safety and technology could pay off down the line.

RELATED: Post Malone Took His 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan on a NASCAR Track in His New Music Video

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America Needs More Compact Pickup Trucks Like the Hyundai Santa Cruz

by Gabrielle DeSantis

When it comes to pickup trucks, Americans really only have two options as far as segments go. They can go big with a full-size pickup like the Ford F-150 or go a bit smaller with a midsize model like the Toyota Tacoma. However, Hyundai now has an even smaller option with the Santa Cruz, and the American automotive market could use more compact pickup trucks like the model that the Koren automaker has dubbed a “sport adventure vehicle.”

The success of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz

2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz | Hyundai Motor Company

Hyundai is pretty new to the American truck industry, but Hyundai made a smart choice right out of the gate. Rather than competing with trucks that are already pretty popular, Hyundai decided to make a truck in a segment with little competition. The Santa Cruz is a compact pickup, and that small size has allowed the Santa Cruz to excel in certain areas compared to bigger trucks.

Not only that, but Hyundai has made sure that the Santa Cruz is, first and foremost, a Hyundai. It’s a very comfortable truck, and it’s also packed with practical features. As such, it’s no surprise that, like many other Hyundai models, the Santa Cruz has received great reviews from car critics. Obviously, this Hyundai model falls behind the bigger trucks when it comes to payload capacity or towing capacity. However, that’s not why people like the Santa Cruz.

At the end of the day, different car segments will have different advantages and disadvantages. Santa Cruz owners likely understand the disadvantages that come with buying a compact pickup truck. However, the main draw of compact pickup trucks comes from everything related to their size.

Why we need more compact pickups like the Santa Cruz

As Car and Driver wrote, the compact trucks of the past no longer really exist in America, outside of the Santa Cruz. The midsize trucks of today are about the same size and have the same capabilities as the full-size trucks of the past. As such, many people who might need a truck, but don’t need all that size and power, have nothing to buy right now other than this new Hyundai model. 

After all, that extra size and extra power come at a price, literally. According to Car and Driver, the Santa Cruz, being a true compact truck, starts at about $25,000, far more affordable than the F-150, which can cost up to $75,000. Furthermore, that big size has a lot of disadvantages. For example, full-size trucks will be hard to park, and they’re also going to be pretty inefficient in terms of fuel economy compared to compact trucks.

There are also convenience and safety issues. Big trucks are simply going to be a hassle to get into and out of. On top of that, according to Consumer Reports, big trucks can actually create a blind spot in the front that can be dangerous for pedestrians or folks driving in smaller cars. Compact trucks solve both of these issues.

Other upcoming compact pickup trucks

While America used to make many compact trucks, automakers in other countries continue to do so. As such, there are plenty of foreign compact trucks, like the Ram 700, that’ll probably never get sold in America. However, things are changing. Ford unveiled the 2022 Ford Maverick, a compact pickup truck that’ll compete with the Santa Cruz. Furthermore, the Chevy Montana has recently been announced as a competitor to the Maverick.

If the Maverick, Montana, and Santa Cruz prove successful, it won’t be long before other automakers start introducing newer and cooler compact pickup trucks for American customers.

RELATED: The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Is Special for More Than Just Its Looks

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