by Gabrielle DeSantis

These days, with so many options to choose from, buying a new lawn mower can make for a somewhat overwhelming experience. The same can be said if you’re on the hunt for an electric push lawn mower. With so many options to choose from, how do you decide which is the best electric push lawn mower for your yard? The good news is that Bob Vila recently highlighted its picks for the best electric push lawn mowers. Let’s find out what they are.

Are electric push lawn mowers any good?

First things first, let’s talk about whether or not buying an electric push lawn mower is a good idea. While you’re likely familiar with gas-powered lawn mowers, there are plenty of reasons to consider an electric lawn mower instead. In fact, according to CNET, electric lawn mowers tend to be quieter than their gasoline-powered kin. Electric lawn mowers require less maintenance too.

And when it comes to usability? CNET reports that electric lawn mowers tend to be easier to maneuver than gas-powered ones. That’s, more than anything else, a result of them being lighter than gas lawn mowers. For example, CNET reports that while the EGO Power Plus 56-Volt 21-in Push Cordless Electric Lawn Mower weighs 62.6 pounds, the Craftsman M250 160-cc 21-in Self-Propelled Gas Push Lawn Mower weighs in at 90 pounds.

Perhaps the only downside to choosing an electric lawn mower is that you will have to charge it. While gas-powered lawn mowers require fuel, electric lawn mowers must be charged on the regular. The good news is that plenty of electric mowers boast runtimes ranging between 20 and 45 minutes once charged.

The Snapper XD 82V MAX is one of the best electric push lawn mowers

Now, let’s talk about Bob Vila’s top picks for the best electric push lawn mowers. Take, for instance, the Snapper XD 82V MAX. This electric push lawn mower comes powered by 82-volt batteries and includes two 2.0Ah batteries. “While each battery has 45 minutes of runtime for a total of 90 minutes, the rapid charger allows users to tap into a third battery when needed,” Bob Vila added.

As for what else this electric push lawn mower has to offer? Boasting a 14-inch wide cutting deck, this mower comes with a clipping chute, a mulching cover, and a bagger. It also features a seven-position height adjustment along with an ergonomically designed padded foam handle. Bob Vila reports that the Snapper XD 82V MAX’s push-button start and throttle bar also further contribute to a “comfortable and easy mowing experience.” As for how much this mower will cost you? You can anticipate spending roughly $399 on the Snapper XD 82V MAX.

The WORX WG779 40V Power Share gives you the best bang the buck

Mowing. | Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Perhaps the Snapper XD 82V MAX is too expensive for your budget. If that’s the case, don’t fret. Bob Vila also recommends another, more affordable lawn mower. In fact, unlike the Snapper XD 82V MAX, the WORX WG779 40V Power Share boasts a starting price of $255. If you’re shopping for a new lawn mower under $300, that price is pretty hard to argue with.

But the WORX WG779 40V Power Share doesn’t just give you the most bang for your buck. According to Bob Vila, this mower is one of the best electric push lawn mowers and comes outfitted with features often seen on more expensive models. It also boasts a total cutting capacity of 13 inches and features ergonomically designed handles to keep your hands in a comfortable position. Weighing in at just 30 pounds, Bob Vila reports that this electric lawn mower is easy to maneuver too.

The Greenworks Pro GLM801601 is the best electric push lawn mower

A man using a Greenworks electric push lawn mower. Greenworks makes one of the best electric push lawn mowers, according to Bob Vila
Greenworks mower. | Artyom GeodakyanTASS via Getty Images

When it comes to the best overall electric lawn mower, Bob Vila recommends looking no further than the Greenworks Pro GLM801601. According to Bob Vila, this electric lawn mower offers up a “healthy balance of runtime, power, and charging time.” It runs on Greenworks’ 80-volt system and comes equipped with two 2.0Ah batteries for a combined 60 minutes of total runtime. With a rapid charger, charging this mower’s batteries takes only 30 minutes too.

This 21-inch electric lawn mower makes nary a compromise when it comes to features too. In fact, Bob Vila lauded it for coming standard with features like a clipping chute, a mulching cover, and a bagger for clipping management. It also features push-button start, an ergonomic padded handle, and a throttle lever. As for how much it will cost you? Opt for this mower, and you’ll be spending at least $499 on it.

How to choose the best electric push lawn mower for your yard

Shopping for an electric push lawn mower doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, with Bob Vila’s recommendations in mind, shopping for the best electric lawn mower for your yard is a fairly easy feat. First, determine how much you’re willing to spend on your next lawn mower. Then, consider which features you value most. After that? It’s time to head to your local hardware store to check these electric lawn mowers out for yourself. 

RELATED: The Best Lawn Mower Brands According to Bob Vila

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by Gabrielle DeSantis

Small cars aren’t always suited to everyone’s lifestyle, especially if you have a big family. However, sedans are excellent as daily drivers because of their compact dimensions and smaller turning radiuses. Better gas mileage is also a big perk, especially if with a Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid.

According to MotorTrend, the Ioniq Hybrid has the best fuel economy of all other new small cars. Besides its fuel-sipping nature, what else makes the Ioniq Hybrid special?

The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid’s efficiency

The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid gets 59 mpg combined city/highway, with 60 mpg on highway drives. Those numbers are only for the base Ioniq Blue, but the other trims are still quite efficient. All three upper trims are rated for 54/56 mpg city/highway.

In real-world testing, Consumer Reports found that the Hyundai Ioniq SEL’s mileage dropped by 12 mpg during city driving. But it outperformed its EPA estimate on the highway, earning 60 mpg. CR also estimates that drivers will spend only around $555 for every 12,000 miles.

How the competition compares

The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid’s EPA estimates threaten to topple the Toyota Prius from its spot as the most recognizable hybrid. The Prius gets only up to 56 mpg combined, and it has a less powerful engine. It offers the advantage of optional all-wheel drive, but many shoppers also find the Prius ugly compared to the Ioniq.

The Hyundai Ioniq also beats its Elantra sibling, which gets only 54 mpg combined. The Mitsubishi Mirage is the most competitively priced on MotorTrend’s list, but it’s difficult to enjoy with its puny engine. The Nissan Versa rests at the bottom of the list, but it’s still rated for a nice 36 mpg combined. 

The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid’s other highlights

The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid comes with an electric motor paired with a four-cylinder gas engine, producing 139 hp combined. It needs almost 10 seconds to reach 60 mph, so it’s definitely not the speediest hybrid. MotorTrend says it’s good on handling, but the heavy steering wheel needs frequent adjustments to stay on course.

Like most small cars, the Ioniq Hybrid is also easily unsettled by harsh bumps in the road. And the brakes need plenty of stopping distance, not helped by the mushy pedal feel. CR noted the Ioniq performed decently on its avoidance maneuver test, even if body lean was still noticeable at times.

The interior isn’t exactly upscale, either, but the materials are what you’d expect at the Ioniq’s base price. Hyundai also went the extra mile to use sustainable materials, such as sugarcane composites, to build the interior. Plus, the driver’s seat sits low, but visibility is great, with large windows and narrow roof pillars.

The seats themselves are comfy, too, whether you choose cloth or leather upholstery. Taller riders might not have enough legroom in the backseat, and some critics say the seats aren’t supportive on long trips. The interior is also noisy thanks to the Ioniq’s underpowered engine and excessive winds on the highway.

Smartphone integration, AUX and USB ports, Bluetooth, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen come with the Blue trim. Physical buttons are also located under the screen, though MotorTrend warns that the HVAC controls are confusing. The Hyundai Ioniq Blue also boasts an excellent suite of standard safety features.

With all of its standard features and impressive gas mileage, the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is an outstanding value at $23,400. The top-tier Limited, equipped with even more convenience and safety technology, maxes out at $31,400. 

RELATED: The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Electric Makes up for Poor Range

The post The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Deservedly Landed at the Top of This List appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The color of a car is something you should consider during the car buying process. Some car colors are easier to take care of than others, and it can help with your resale value, too. Buyers often look at the appearance of a vehicle when making a purchase, according to KBB. With that in mind, it’s time to take a look at the easiest car colors to maintain, and wether it’ll help you out when the time comes to sell.

White cars help hide swirl marks

A white Toyota 4Runner | Scott Olson via Getty Images

White is a classic choice. There’s a reason that every fifth car, truck, and SUV you see on the road is a white one. This color’s popularity is exactly why it’s so great. It is the safe choice, after all. Happily, manufacturers put some effort into making their white paint stand out. Cadillac is a notable mention in this regard. The brand’s Crystal White has a fantastic shine. However, the color is somewhat of a mixed bag when it comes to maintenance.

If you’ve ever owned a pair of white shoes you’ll know exactly what I’m on about. White paint looks great when it’s clean, but it will show dirt quickly. Thankfully, it’ll hide streak marks and minor imperfections well. However, it’s best to avoid the automatic car wash and keep your paint in good nick. Happily, the next candidate hides paint imperfections and dirt better.

Gray cars and SUVs hide dust well

A grey Honda Civic can be one of the easiest car colors to maintain
A gray Honda Civic | Patrick Fallon via Getty Images

Gray is another color you’ll see out and about frequently. Like white, it is one of the easier car colors to maintain. It’s arguably even more popular than white. Once again, you can count them on the highway and see for yourself. Additionally, there’s a little more variation in shades of white, which can help in resale appeal. Volkswagen’s United Grey Metallic and Carbon Black come to mind.

As for maintaining the paint itself, it depends more on the shade of gray than anything. Lighter shades will hide dust and road debris a little less than darker shades but will hide paint imperfections better. Conversely, darker shades of gray (especially ones about 50 shades or so darker) will hide dirt and grime better, but light scratches are far more visible. Our last candidate is somewhat of a hybrid as far as popularity and maintenance goes, and a strong choice.

Silver is one of the easiest car colors to maintain

A silver Audi R8 sports car at an auto show in Los Angeles
A silver Audi R8 | David McNew via Getty Images

Silver offers arguably the best of both worlds here. There can be a great variation in shades of paint, helping with appeal. It’s also just dark enough to hide dust and pollen, and light enough to hide small imperfections. Bearing that in mind, any of these colors are great candidates, though there are some edge case scenarios where more unique colors shine, as the article below points out. This said, silver paint is arguably the easiest car color to maintain, and its mass appeal will help your resale value.

RELATED: Avoid Matte Paint If You Like Your Car – Do This Instead

The post These Are the Easiest Car Colors to Maintain appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

There are loads of safe SUVs you could buy, so how do you decide between them? In some cases it may come down to which SUV is safer, but even then things can be close. Take the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2021 Ford Edge. Both SUVs have similar (and very good) crash test ratings. Yet one has a slightly better rated advanced safety system. Let’s see why the Hyundai Santa Fe has better safety features than the Ford Edge.

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe | Hyundai

What safety features are important for an SUV to have?

A red 2021 Ford Edge races down the highway.
2021 Ford Edge | Ford

Part of various safety organizations’ ratings include how many safety features come standard in a vehicle. Both the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2021 Ford Edge have a good amount of safety features. They both come with forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking for the city. Highway automatic emergency braking comes standard in the Ford Edge, but isn’t even available in the Hyundai Santa Fe. 

Both the Santa Fe and the Edge come standard with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are standard in the Edge but only optional in the Santa Fe. 

Rear view camera, anti lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and daytime running lights all come standard in both the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2021 Ford Edge. 

That’s great, but how effective are their safety features?

A gold 2021 Ford Edge travels over a bridge.
2021 Ford Edge | Ford

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety measures the effectiveness of safety features. They rate crash prevention between vehicle-to vehicle as well as vehicle-to-pedestrian. Points are awarded on a scale of 0-6 and result in an assessment of basic, advanced, or superior. 

Vehicle-to-vehicle ratings in both the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2021 Ford Edge were both superior. The IIHS tested how well each SUV did at preventing a collision at 12 and 25 mph. Having forward collision warning is an advantage to a vehicle’s final score. Automatic emergency braking is a must for a superior rating.

The IIHS began including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking systems after research by the related Highway Loss Data Institute found that these advanced safety features are effective at low and moderate speeds. 

Both the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2021 Ford Edge are IIHS Top Safety Picks. They have good crash test ratings, though not identical. Some of the subsets of crash test categories vary, and are worth checking out if safety is a priority in your car search. 

The Hyundai Santa Fe is better at not hitting people

A white 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe drives through the mountains.
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe | Hyundai

If you just want to know which SUV has a better safety system, consider this: the Hyundai Santa Fe performed better in the IIHS’ vehicle-to-pedestrian crash prevention tests. While the 2021 Ford Edge got only an advanced, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe got a superior. 

To do these tests, the IIHS runs six tests at different speeds. The tests include a perpendicular test, which simulates an adult walking across the road in front of a vehicle traveling at 12 and 25 mph. It also conducts a perpendicular child, which involves a simulated child running into the road with parked vehicles obstructing the view of the test car. This test is also run at 12 and 25 mph. 

Finally, the IIHS runs a parallel adult test, which simulates an adult in the right lane of traffic near the edge of the road, walking away from the vehicle. This test is run at 25 and 37 mph. 

It’s the vehicle-to-pedestrian tests where the Hyundai Santa Fe shines. In the crossing adult test, the Santa Fe avoided a collision at 12 and 25 mph, while the Edge only nearly avoided a collision at 12 mph and reduced impact speed by 23 mph in the 25 mph test. 

The Santa Fe also avoided a collision in the crossing child test at 12 mph and reduced impact speed by 20 mph in the 25 mph test. On the other hand, the Edge always hit the child. In the 12 mph test it reduced the speed by 11 mph, and in the 25 mph test it reduced speed by 20 mph. 

Both SUVs avoided hitting the parallel adult at 25 mph. The Santa Fe also avoided a collision at 37 mph and issued a warning 1.9 seconds before impact. The Edge didn’t avoid a collision but it did reduce speed by 22 mph and issued a warning 1.8 seconds before impact. 

No one assumes they’re going to hit a pedestrian, so everyone should consider these safety features when shopping for a new car. It’s easy to see why the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe has an advantage over the 2021 Ford Edge.

RELATED: The Deadly Mistake You May Make All the Time

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