Unique Unibody Pickups: Honda Ridgeline vs. Ford Maverick

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Ford Media touted that the Ford Maverick will get better fuel economy than a Honda Civic. It then became apparent that this truck is poised to compete with a ridiculous range of vehicles. But Honda also offers a unibody pickup truck to North American truck shoppers––the Honda Ridgeline. So how do these two unique unibody pickup trucks compare?

When it comes to Honda Ridgeline vs Ford Maverick it’s no apples to apples comparison. But the unique unibody construction these trucks share make the head to head rundown unavoidable. How do they stack up?

Spec to spec: Honda Ridgeline vs. Ford Maverick

2021 Honda Ridgeline | Honda

One of these unibody pickup trucks is in the midsize group, while the other is a true compact pickup truck. The midsize 2021 Honda Ridgeline’s entire lineup runs a 3.5 liter V6 that creates 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. For the Honda truck, all-wheel drive is standard and the powertrain pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission. 

On the other hand, the all-new 2022 Ford Maverick is here to change the pickup truck game. It’s a ute, a true compact pickup truck with smaller dimensions and a standard 2.5 liter hybrid powertrain that generates 191 hp, sending that to the front wheels. The other engine option for the Ford Maverick is a 2.0 liter turbocharged inline-four with 250 hp and the option for all-wheel drive. 

The Ford Maverick’s hybrid powertrain dominates in terms of fuel economy

The 2022 Ford Maverick Won't Go Over $36k With Every Added Spec
The 2022 Ford Maverick Won’t Go Over $36k With Every Added Spec | Ford

The EPA hasn’t released official stats for the 2022 Ford Maverick. However, according to Ford Media, the hybrid version of this unibody pickup will get 40 mpg on the highway, 33 mpg in the city, and 37 mpg combined. Honda’s unibody truck gets up to 24 mpg on the highway, 18 mpg in the city, and 21 mpg combined. 

That said, we have no word from Ford or the EPA in terms of the kind of mileage drivers will see in the 2.0 liter turbocharged option. Considering the Maverick is a hybrid, it’s really no surprise that this portion of the face-off ends in a landslide win for Ford’s new compact pickup truck. 

Towing tournament: which truck is more capable? 

a blue 2022 ford maverick with bikes and a surf board in the bed
2022 Ford Maverick | Ford

When it comes to towing, the larger V6-powered truck is the clear winner. However, the Ford Maverick can actually handle quite a bit considering its smaller size and more efficient powertrain options. The 2021 Honda Ridgeline tows up to 5,000 lbs, with a payload capacity of 1,583 lbs. 

On the other hand, the 2022 Ford Maverick’s base configurations provide a towing strength of 2,000 lbs. 4,000 lbs is possible, but the tow package must be added. So as far as carrying or pulling a heavy load goes, the Honda Ridgeline is the best bet.

How much smaller is the Ford Maverick than the Honda Ridgeline? 

all-new 2022 Honda Ridgeline posing off-road with two honda dirt bikes in the pickup bed
2021 Honda Ridgeline | Honda

These unibody pickup trucks are definitely different in size. The 2022 Ford Maverick sits on a 121.1 inch wheelbase and measures 199.7 inches long. On the other hand, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline rides on a 125.2 inch wheelbase with a nose-to-tail measurement of 210.2 inches. 

Ford’s little ute has a 5 ft. bed that is 6 ft long with the tailgate down. Over in the midsize segment, the Ridgeline has a 5 ft. truck bed that expands to nearly 7 ft. when the tailgate is dropped down. Each is a versatile vehicle, but the Honda Ridgeline is clearly larger than the new Maverick. 

Honda Ridgeline vs. Ford Maverick

The 2022 Ford Maverick and the 2021 Honda Ridgeline are essentially in a league of their own. The only other unibody pickup truck is the all-new 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, which will go on sale later this year. But really when it comes to choosing one or the other in the battle of the Honda Ridgeline vs Ford Maverick it will come largely down to preference, budget, and priorities.

Each is a great city truck. The Honda Ridgeline starts in the high $30,000s while the Ford Maverick’s prices begin in the low $20,000s. Both are reasonably capable, depending on the buyer’s needs. If you want a larger truck with a V6, the Honda unibody truck is the way to go. But for buyers seeking a hybrid option wth car-like fuel economy, they’ll want to check out the Ford Maverick.

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What Is Mazda Zoom-Zoom?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

There are some marketing gimmicks that fizzle out almost as soon as they launch. But others hit the nail on the head and resonate for decades. Mazda is a brand that found its voice with a historic marketing campaign. “Zoom-Zoom” began as a series of commercials two decades ago and lives on in the Mazda ethos today. You might remember those ads well, thanks to the catchy “zoom, zoom, zoom” jingle.

So, what does “Zoom-Zoom” really mean, and how can it still inspire consumers to consider Mazda vehicles?

The Mazda brand, defined

A silver Mazda prototype at the Paris Auto Show on display in September 2006 (Photo by Pool BENAINOUS/DE MAGLAIVE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

Some brands change their image or mission over time, but Mazda has remained consistent. It’s an automaker defined by sporty, fun, and performance-driven vehicles. The Japanese brand launched its first vehicle in 1931 with a tricycle truck, the Mazda-go. By the 1950s, the company was cranking out four-wheel trucks and officially launched its first passenger vehicle, the R360 Coupe. The automaker broke into the U.S. market in 1970 with the R100 coupe, and by 1978, the RX-7 had already earned a reputation for peak performance in the sports car segment.

Ford Motor Company claimed 25 percent ownership of Mazda in 1979. And 10 years later, the MX-5 Miata debuted at the Chicago Auto Show, History.com reports. It earned the 2000 Guinness World Records title of “best-selling two-seat convertible.” To really appreciate the history of the Mazda lineup, you can explore the some 120 vehicles in the Mazda Classic Automobile Museum Fey in Germany. According to Mazda, this museum is home to an iconic collection of stunning historical models.

The introduction of the ‘Zoom-Zoom’ tagline

You might remember the commercials. Peppy Mazda vehicles zip along winding mountain roads when a young lad pops his head into the frame and whispers, “Zoom-zoom.” Those commercials launched in October 2000, but the message of the campaign continues.

“Zoom-Zoom” represents a “love of motion” and the innocent perception of fun as a child, Autobytel reports. There is an excitement and joy of youth built into every Mazda experience. While those original commercials no longer air, “Zoom-Zoom” lives on as the name of the automaker’s magazine, sharing stories from owners and promoting “Zoom-Zoom” moments submitted by consumers. 

The latest Mazda models that carry on the ‘Zoom-Zoom’ tradition

“Zoom-Zoom” traditions may represent the stylish and dynamic performance of the early RX-7 and Miata models. But today’s Mazda vehicles embody the same spirit. The 2021 CX-30, CX-9, and CX-5 all demonstrate the fun-to-drive traits of their predecessors. And the 2021 Mazda3, Mazda6, and MX-5 Miata all demonstrate the brand’s ability to still create top-performing and experience-driven cars.

Every model today is built with the driver experience in mind, keeping with the feeling of childlike enthusiasm from behind the wheel. The automaker calls it the “unmistakable bond between car and driver.” And it speaks to the expertly crafted components, intuitive features, and inspiring handling. The CX-5 earns reviews that say it’s like the Miata but with all-wheel drive. And Mazda USA shared its recent Consumer Reports win as one of the “Best Car Brands for 2021.”

The “Zoom-Zoom” tradition began as an ad campaign. But it has transcended a brand slogan. Mazda defines itself as an automaker of sporty and fun vehicles and has created a community of car fans around it.

RELATED: The Mazda CX-5’s Depreciation Isn’t the Best or the Worst

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There Are a Few Reasons to Not Pick the 2021 Cadillac XT5 Over Competitors

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The XT5 demonstrates the luxurious style that has been a trademark of Cadillac as buyer trends continue to favor SUVs over sedans. As the company’s best-seller in 2020, the XT5 continues to be the gem in the automaker’s crown as the only model in their lineup to earn the blessing of Consumer Reports in 2021.

Owning any luxury SUV comes at a price, but you will have to look for a higher trim package rather than a standard trim for true luxury if you choose the 2021 Cadillac XT5. Those who hope to save some cash due to the higher price tag while getting what they pay for might want to consider other XT5 competitors in the 2021 midsize luxury SUV class.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 has plenty of features that will excite

2021 Cadillac XT5 | General Motors

There are still plenty of features available on the Cadillac XT5 to get excited about despite it sitting at the bottom of the MotorTrend list of midsize luxury SUVs in 2021. This includes decent performance, comfort and handling, adequate space, and user-friendly infotainment.

Like its older sibling, the XT6, the XT5 offers two powertrain packages that are adequate for the platform, showcasing a 2.0-liter turbo-four with 237 hp and 258 lb-ft torque, giving 21/26-28 mpg on its base package. The same 3.6-liter V6 with 310 hp and 271 lb-ft torque, featured in the Camaro, is found in the second package, but with a dismal fuel economy of 18/25-26 mpg.

Comfort and handling remain positive attributes of the Cadillac XT5 due to a suspension system capable of delivering a quiet, comfortable ride with minimal body roll. Plenty of legroom at 41.2 inches is available up front, and a generous 39.0 inches for passengers are positive attributes. The XT5’s cargo space is competitive, showcasing 30.2 cubic feet with rear seats up and 63.0 cubic feet with them down.

Active and passive safety features on the 2021 XT5 continue to receive IIHS “good” and “superior” ratings. Drivers won’t divert their attention from the road to struggle with a mediocre infotainment system because the XT5 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is very intuitive.

Are there better options in the same class as the Cadillac XT5?

While Cadillac enthusiasts can continue to sing the XT5’s praises, obvious interior cost-cutting and an odd mixture of materials used in the cabin are major drawbacks to getting the true luxury buyers in this class expect to receive for their investment. The XT5 features an unrefined 9-speed automatic transmission that is a bit hesitant when downshifting.

The need to upgrade to premium trim packages to get the true luxury demanded by buyers in this class is perhaps the most difficult shortcoming of the XT5. Where midsize luxury in competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Lexus RX, and Land Rover Defender might cost more, their base models offer equal or more luxury features that are only available in premium trim levels of the XT5.

Essentially, those looking for true luxury in a midsize SUV can find it in the base models of Lincoln, Mercedes, Lexus, Land Rover, Porsche, and BMW models at a lower price than you will pay for premium packages of the 2021 Cadillac XT5.

Take a close look at the competitors before giving the nod to the XT5

Though Cadillac has maintained a reputation among luxury sedans throughout its history, it seems the brand name is struggling to stay among the leaders in its class of midsize luxury SUVs with the 2021 XT5. The XT5 has some redeemable qualities. You are apt to get more value for each dollar you spend when you invest in one of XT5’s competitors in 2021.

RELATED: There’s Only 1 Cadillac Model To Earn Consumer Reports Blessing in 2021

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The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe Looks Supercharged

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Y’all, it’s finally here. We get to see the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. We’ve been waiting months for this moment. Also, we hope it means that the Jeep Compass and Renegade 4xe will make it here from Italy soon. 

What we know about the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe 

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe | Jep

Behold the power! The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is finally here with all of its two-row glory. It looks similar to its larger Jeep Grand Cherokee L sibling, but it’s smaller without the additional third-row seat. Also, it features blue hooks and badging instead of red. 

A few unique styling cues include the charging port on the driver’s side front fender, revised C-pillar design, and a contrasting roof that slopes down to meet chrome trim. In case you didn’t know, this is a PHEV or plug-in hybrid. 

How much power does the Grand Cherokee 4xe have? 

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe will most likely share the same powertrain option as the Wrangler 4xe. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that’s paired with two electric motors and a 17.3-kWh lithium-ion hybrid battery to generate 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. 

The most potent engine of the current Grand Cherokee is a 6.4-liter V8 engine with 475 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. This is unless you upgrade to the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine with 707 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. It’s possible that the Grand Cherokee 4xe will gain a little extra muscle to remain on top as a towing and racing king. 

With the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, you can tow up to 3,500 lbs. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about six seconds. The Jeep Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,200 lbs, making it perfectly capable of hauling mid-sized campers and trailers. 

You get up to 21 miles of electric range with the Wrangler 4xe. It gets an EPA-estimated 49 MPGe. YOu should go for about 370 miles with a full charge and a full tank of gas. The Gasoline-powered Grand Cherokee gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and up to 26 mpg on the highway. 

Charging the Wrangler 4xe is easy, even at trailheads where Jeep installed Level 2 charging stations. With a Level 1 charger it takes about 12 hours to charge fully. It plugs into a regular 120-volt or home outlet. The Level 2 charge fully recharges the batteries in about two hours. 

Does the Grand Cherokee 4xe have good features? 

The tan-leather and wood-trimmed front interior of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve front interior | Stellantis

We don’t know much about the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe yet. It will be fully revealed during the upcoming New York Auto Show. Until then, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L may provide clues about the interior. 

It’s safe to expect the higher trim levels such as the Summit and Overland options to include premium leather upholstery, open-pore wood trim, and massaging front seats. Heated and ventilated seats could be available too. 

The Grand Cherokee L comes with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. You can opt for built-in navigation and Wireless Apple Carplay, and Android Auto. 

Standard safety features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and standard adaptive cruise control. 

We can’t wait to learn more about the Grand Cherokee L. We will watch for updates. The New York Auto Show is August 20 – 29th and will reveal tons of Jeep secrets. The Jeep Magneto and much more will help Jeep reach the Zero Emission, 100% Freedom goal.

RELATED: The 2022 Jeep Commander Could Make An Incredible Comeback

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