U.S. News Rightfully Names the 2021 Range Rover Evoque 1 of the Most Luxurious Vehicles

by Gabrielle DeSantis

There are many luxury car brands on the market. Few are as well-known as the Land Rover Range Rover. However, for folks who want a Range Rover but don’t need a big SUV, Land Rover has the Range Rover Evoque. Here’s a look at why the 2021 Range Rover Evoque is rightfully one of the most luxurious cars of the year.

How the 2021 Range Rover Evoque fared

2021 Range Rover Evoque | Jaguar Land Rover

According to U.S. News, not only is the Evoque one of the most luxurious SUVs on the market right now, but it’s also likely the best offroader in its segment. This is a pretty good claim to fame since the subcompact luxury SUV segment the Evoque is in is very competitive. Popular SUVs like the Lexus UX or the Mercedes-Benz GLA Class are also part of the segment, yet U.S. News said that the Evoque was better offroading than many of them.

Luxury is where the Evoque really shined. U.S. News wrote that the Evoque’s interior was not only “handsome and stylish,” but it was also “spacious and comfortable.” As such, it’s no surprise that U.S. News gave the luxury SUV the nod, but no ranking. Regardless, the Evoque is in good company with other luxury SUVs like the BMW X5 and the Genesis GV80 that also made the list.

The 2021 Range Rover Evoque’s luxurious interior

According to U.S. News, despite being great for offroading, the Evoque has a very comfortable ride. Combined with its standard luxury features such as leather upholstery and a 10-inch touchscreen display, it makes the Evoque one of the most luxurious SUVs available.

The Evoque also has a 7-inch driver information display and many comfort features such as dual-zone automatic climate control. The Evoque has some tech that the regular Range Rover doesn’t have. It uses the Pivi Pro infotainment system, and it’s a far superior system to what the regular Range Rover uses right now.

U.S. News wrote that the Evoque has a long list of other tech and safety features that are standard, such as a voice recognition system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a surround-view parking camera system, among many others.

How much does this luxury SUV cost?

The luxurious and high-tech interior isn’t the only selling point of the Evoque. It’s one of the best SUVs to go offroad, partially because it comes with all-wheel drive as standard. With that being said, despite all those great standard features, the Evoque only starts at approximately $43,000.

For shoppers looking for a luxury SUV, that’s an excellent deal. But of course, for those looking to add features onto their Evoque, it’ll cost a bit more. For example, according to U.S. News, the most expensive option for the Evoque is the R-Dynamic HSE trim starting at about $53,000. The mid-tier trim is the SE, and it’ll start at about $48,000.

There are plenty of interior upgrades available for the Evoque as far as options go. The Evoque’s already luxurious seats can come with heating and massage capabilities, and its 10-inch touchscreen can be paired with another 10-inch touchscreen. And of course, fun features such as a cabin air purification system as well as a head-up display are also available.

RELATED: Allergies Beware – the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Is Here

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The 2021 Chevy Bolt Just Killed the 2021 Porsche Taycan on Consumer Reports

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Y’all don’t need me to tell you that the EV segment is ramping up quickly. Only five years ago, EVs were seen as a success if they could go over a couple hundred miles and manage to find a charger that could get you back on the road within 24 hrs. Tesla has clearly laid the path, but now we have luxurious sports car EVs like the 2021 Porsche Taycan and more practical offerings like the 2021 Chevy Bolt. 

2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV | Chevrolet

Consumer Reports has finally tested enough EVs to start getting a better overall picture of the segment. And that picture shows the 2021 Chevy Bolt Killing the 2021 Porsche Taycan.

Consumer Reports picks the 2021 Chevy Bolt over the 2021 Porsche Taycan

The 2021 Porsche Taycan debut showcase images features a champagne color option
2021 Porsche Taycan | VW Group Media

Consumer Reports is nothing if not consistent. They seem to consistently prefer safety, reliability, and comfort over anything else. However, it is still a bit shocking to see the 2021 Chevy Bolt receive an overall score of 78/100, while the 2021 Porsche Taycan only got a 63/100. It may seem crazy, but CR always shows their work. 

Is the 2021 Chevy Bolt a good car? 

A red 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV driving, the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV is one of the cheapest new electric cars of 2021 and killed on Consumer Reports
2021 Chevrolet Bolt | Chevrolet

Right off the bat, Consumer Reports gave the Chevy Bolt a 5/5 on predicted reliability. Its reliability will carry it a long way here, especially when you consider the 2021 Porsche Taycan scored a 2 / 5 on reliability. Predicted owner satisfaction, noise suppression, and fuel economy (obviously) all landed strong scores. The 2021 Chevy Bolt is hitting all the Consumer Reports notes. 

The Chevy Bolt unseated the Tesla as the go-to EV a few years ago by giving a 200-mile range for far less than Tesla’s $70,000 price tag. The 2021 Chevy Bolt might look a bit spartan and boring, but its 200 hp electric motor delivers snappy, guilt-free torque, making for a surprisingly fun driving experience. 

Like the 2021 Porsche Taycan, the Bolt may surprise you with its planted cornering and tight handling. But that’s not really what the Chevy Bolt is about. 

You will need a 240-Volt connector to charge the Bolt and, thanks to its long 250-plus-mile range, it can take up to 10 hours to charge from empty. Though the charge time shouldn’t bother too many drivers, the Bolt seems to aim more at the city-commuter type, making a full charge every day less necessary. Charging costs will vary depending on geography, but on a national average of 12 cents per kWh, running the Bolt equates to a low 3.3 cents per mile.

It should come as no surprise that the $36,500 (starting price) Chevy Bolt isn’t the most beautiful and comfortable interior ever made. CR describes the interior as “modern” but “cheap and flimsy.” 

Is the 2021 Porsche Taycan a good car? 

The black Porsche Taycan in Mayfair, London. The Taycan is Porsche's first series production electric car.
The Porsche Taycan | Martyn Lucy/Getty Images

Its low predicted reliability score is a real killer here. However, the 2021 Porsche Taycan makes up some ground for being one of the more thrilling EVs on the market. The Porsche Taycan’s performance scores are all green across the board. The Porsche Taycan is an undeniably exciting car that will help consumers get more excited about the segment as a whole. But is it better than the 2021 Chevy Bolt? 

The downside of all that exciting EV power is a relatively low range and long charging times. The 2021 Porsche Taycan 4S’s EPA-rated range is 227 miles; the lowest-rated Tesla Model S – the Taycan’s biggest competitor – is currently 348 miles. This isn’t that bad compared to the Bolt, but the Porsche Taycan starts at nearly double the highest trim-level Chevy Bolt at $79,900. The top trim can run up to a whopping $187,600. 

The 2021 Porsche Taycan still a Porsche 

A white Porsche Taycan car is displayed during the 19th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, also known as Auto Shanghai 2021, at National Exhibition and Convention Center.
The Porsche Taycan | Zhe Ji/Getty Images

Although the 2021 Porsche Taycan is more of a sports car than a luxury car, Porsche still builds the interior to meet the Porsche expectation. Through the car, Porsche’s quality and reputation are shown in spades. That being said, it isn’t plush or showy in any way. In fact, the interior really drives home the sports car pedigree with no fancy materials like wood or fancy leather stitching. 

Even though the Taycan can be a rude sports car, it is still supremely quiet and surprisingly comfortable. The suspension feels confusingly soft for handling road imperfections but also plenty stiff enough to rip through the corners and remain flat and composed, as any Porsche should. 

The 2021 Porsche Taycan might be more fun but the 2021 Chevy Bolt is the better all-around car

Consumer Reports is confident in their assessment of the Chevy Bolt, not only great for its price but great, period. The Bolt evened the playing field, allowing more people to participate in the EV wave by keeping prices reasonable. The 2021 Taycan is also a key part of EV progress by offering something for enthusiasts. This should help EVs have a greater reach and bring some much-needed buzz to the segment. 

RELATED: Only 4 Electric Cars Were Recommended by Consumer Reports for 2021

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Here Are 2 of the Best Used SUVs Under $10,000

by Gabrielle DeSantis

In recent years, more and more car buyers are turning to crossovers and SUVs for their ability to accommodate more people and things. However, SUV models are typically priced in a higher price bracket than a traditional sedan. For those shopping on a thrifty budget, these are some of the best used SUVs under $10,000. 

2008 Toyota Highlander interior | Toyota USA

Each of the following models is either a crossover or SUV that ticks three of the major boxes that smart buyers prioritize when shopping for a used model. These SUVs have high reliability ratings from places like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. In addition, each model here earned high safety ratings from the International Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Plus, pricing for each one falls in the $10,000 range. 

The Honda CR-V is a smart and utilitarian choice for used SUV shoppers

A rear quarter view of a green 2009 Honda CR-V parked in the city.
2009 Honda CR-V | Honda Media
  • Class: small crossover SUV
  • Average price: $7,150-$11,800
  • IIHS Top Safety Pick years: 2007-2009

The Honda CR-V is a tried and true crossover SUV from a trusted Japanese automaker. It offers versatile cargo space. In addition, the Honda CR-V boasts good reliability ratings in virtually every model year. 

This is one of the best used SUVs Under $10,000 because it offers good fuel economy, a choice between two Honda powertrains, and all-wheel drive is available. To find a used Honda CR-V for less that $10,000, shoppers will want to look primarily at the second generation. This Honda CR-V generation ran from 2007-2011.

Consumer Reports recommends every model year in the generation except for one. The 2007 model year did not get the recommendation. However, it did earn the title of IIHS Top Safety Pick. 

The Toyota Highlander is a sensible used SUV for those that desire third-row seating

a light silver blue 2008 Toyota Highlander on display at an indoor auto show
2008 Toyota Highlander | Scott Olson/Getty Images
  • Class: Midsize SUV 
  • Average price: $8,525-$13,700
  • IIHS Top Safety Pick years: 2008-2010

The Toyota Highlander offers third-row seating for those that need more accommodation for passengers. As with most Toyota SUVs, the Highlander holds its value well. Because of that, it can be more difficult to find one in this price range. However, they are out there for used car buyers with enough patience to peruse the market long enough to find a good deal. 

This is another safe family crossover SUV with good safety ratings and high reliability. In fact, Consumer Reports recommends every Toyota Highlander model it’s ever tested. For anyone looking for one of the best used SUVs under $10,000, buyers need to shop the 2010 model year or older. 

Singing a similar tune as the Honda CR-V, the Highlander is another one that buyers virtually can’t go wrong with. That said, it’s still important for buyers to research each model they look at. If you can find a Toyota Highlander in this price range that’s been properly cared for, it’s likely to serve you family well for quite some time despite its age. 

Finding the best used SUVs under $10,000

The interior dash view of a 2010 Honda CR-V EX-L
2010 Honda CR-V EX-L | Honda Media

Ensuring that a model has received proper maintenance and care for the duration of its life is the most important piece of information to verify when buying a used model. Both the Honda CR-V and the Toyota Highlander are used SUV models that standout in terms of both safety and reliability. They are 2 of the best used SUVs money can buy.

RELATED: Are Used RVs and Camper Vans Under $5,000 Worth it?

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Consumer Reports Suggests This DIY Fix For a Dented Bumper

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Modern cars are far safer than the steel giants of the old days. Part of what makes new cars safer is the crumple zones and soft plastics that absorb the force of a crash. The downside of this is little fender benders, and small mistakes have a much bigger impact on your soft plastic bumper than the old steel slabs of the olden days. Luckily, Consumer Reports has a handy DIY fix for your car’s dented bumper. 

How to fix a dented bumper? 

Because most bumpers these days are merely thin plastic things shaped like a bumper, the fix can be fairly easy, but it will take some patience. The time and frustration is worth it as a new bumper can easily run past $1,000. So, as Consumer Reports suggests, get your ducks in a row, get the necessary tools and give yourself ample time to do this DIY fix for a dented bumper.

Step one is finding a way to access the inside of your bumper. This will likely require the removal of the fender liner. This is the space in front of the wheel (or behind it depending on if you are doing the front or back bumper) that lines the wheel well. These parts can be manually detached by simply unclipping the liner. 

The second step must be done carefully as not to damage the bumper further. Heat the dented area of the bumper with a heat gun, hot water, or even a strong hairdryer. This heat will make the plastic more mailable and able to be formed back to its original shape. Be careful not to use too high of heat or heat the same spot for too long as this will ruin the paint or even melt the bumper. Like making good ribs, keep the heat low and slow. 

Lastly, you will apply pressure to the heated and softened damaged area and push the dent back out. The material’s memory should pop itself back out to its original shape with little fuss. If there are multiple smaller dents, you may have to use a tool to apply more precise pressure. This also may take a few tries as the area needs to be heated and soft when you push. If the bumper cools, you may have to reapply heat to get the dent out. 

Are new cars harder to work on than vintage cars? 

This is a serious dividing line for many automotive enthusiasts. The old head’s camp believes that the older cars have less technology and computers; thus, they can be fixed much more easily. This same camp will also argue that the plastics and “cheap” materials used in modern cars are more likely to break. Unlike steel, you can’t rework plastic and such. 

The other camp who cape for modern cars and their computers and plastics is that because there is a computer inside, diagnostics and, in turn, repairs are much simpler and faster. Instead of having to hand time your car or fool with a carburetor, new cars can simply be programmed to run better and more efficiently. And of course, now that we know how to DIY fix a dented bumper, that will likely fall into a pro for the new car folks. 

Consumer Reports make it clear which side they’re on

Truck hauling off a Chevrolet Fleetline | Bob Grannis/Getty Images

Aside from the maintenance and repair work, Consumer Reports is all about safety and reliability. In this aspect of new vs. old, the old dogs simply can’t compete with the new crop of cars and trucks. 

From a simple DIY fix for a dented bumper to endless safety tech and far better crash test ratings, it is hard to argue against the practicality of newer cars. However, the old steel land ships offer heart and emotion to car ownership and repair. Either way, fixing a dented bumper doesn’t have to blow up your bank account – just get a nice hairdryer. 

RELATED: 3 Questions You Should Ask the Mechanic Before Paying

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