2022 Subaru Forester Gets Major Updates

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Subaru Forester has been around since the late ’90s. Subaru has manufactured and produced five generations of the Forester thus far, and the nameplate doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. Thankfully, the next Forester has received some major design updates reinvigorating the nameplate and adding some much-needed flair to the exterior. As a result, the 2022 model is exactly the change that the Forester needs.

Subaru’s old faithful crossover

The Subaru Forester | Robert Hradil Via Getty Images

The Subaru Forester has never been the flashiest crossover on the market. Some consumers would even call its simplistic exterior design boring compared to some emerging crossovers like the Honda-HR-V. The Forester is decades old and far from the new kid on the block, but it does have history on its side.

With that history comes a strong reputation of reliability. The Subaru Forester is a dependable, all-around crossover with off-road capabilities. It was never meant to be the fastest or flashiest vehicle in its class. Its job is to deliver a predictable experience that consumers can trust and have trusted for a very long time.

What the Subaru Forester has done well

A Green 2021 Subaru Forester driving in the rain.
The 2021 Subaru Forester | Subaru

The popular crossover comes equipped with standard safety options like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and forward-collision warning. These features are optional on most crossovers, making the Forester one of the safest SUVs in its class. The biggest complaint consumers have is its lack of power.

The 2021 Subaru Forester receives high ratings amongst consumers. It boasts many standard driver-assist features. It also gets major kudos for including standard all-wheel drive. Ranging from $24,795 to $34,895, the 2021 Forester is also affordable, with enough trim options to satisfy all types of consumer wants and needs. But has the Forester become boring?

The Forester reinvigorated

The 2021 Subaru Forester Sport | Subaru

The 2021 model was recognized as reliable by consumers and experts alike, but few have considered the crossover to be exciting. That’s where the redesign comes in. According to Car and Driver, the Japanese automaker is ready to spice things up with the crossover’s latest exterior design.

The first noticeable change on the small SUV is its reworked grille. The automaker deviated from the flat lines it formally used and transitioned to a sportier honeycomb design. New wheels and chunkier headlamps also give the Forester an updated look. Subaru’s newest iteration will be offered in three new colors: Brilliant Bronze, Cascade Green Silica, and Autumn Green.

But wait, there’s more

The exterior isn’t the only update on the 2022 Subaru Forester. The new Forester will offer upgraded camera sensors as well as even more driver-assistance features. It is expected to use the same unimpressive powertrain that some consumers dread, but Subaru is definitely keeping the crossover relevant with these welcome new improvements and additions.

The 2021 Subaru Forester was the crossover that reminded auto enthusiasts why the nameplate has been around so long. The 2022 Subaru Forester will show consumers that the crossover is here to stay and can keep up with the times. Things are looking up for Subaru’s popular off-road crossover vehicle.

RELATED: Ford Bronco Sport vs. Subaru Forester: More Capable SUV?

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The 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 Can’t Catch the Ford F-150

by Gabrielle DeSantis

As much as the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 tries, it can’t seem to catch up with the 2021 Ford F-150. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 lags behind the Ford F-150 on the list of the best trucks for 2021, and let’s see why. 

The 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 vs. the 2021 Ford F-150 

2021 Chevrolet Silverado RST | Chevrolet

According to the U.S.News, the 2021 Ford F-150 currently outranks the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 on the list of the best full-size pickup trucks for 2021. The Silverado is in third place, and the F-150 is in second place. Meanwhile, the 2021 Ram 1500 has secured the top spot. 

But these rankings are subject to change as new information about these vehicles is released. U.S.News ranks vehicles based on various factors determined by reviews performed by credible critics and third-party data sources. 

Each truck is evaluated based on how it drives, its handling, its safety ratings, reliability rankings, interior comfort, strength, fuel economy, and more to determine its score. The Silverado has a score of 8.0, and the F-150 has a score of 8.9. 

Why does the F-150 rank higher than the Silverado? 

The 2021 Ford F-150 was redesigned for 2021. As a result, it has class-leading towing and hauling capabilities, a powerful engine lineup that includes a hybrid option, and an easy-to-use infotainment system. But U.S.News noted that it is less upscale and comfortable than the Ram 1500. 

The 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 is favored for having an excellent towing capacity, powerful engine options, and intuitive tech features. But U.S.News noted that it doesn’t ride as smoothly as competitors and has a less upscale interior. 

You can get started in a Chevy Silverado 1500 for about $29,300. The Ford F-150 begins at about $29,290, making them pretty competitively priced options. 

When properly equipped, the Ford F-150 can tow up to 14,000 lbs and carry a payload of up to 3,250 lbs. The Chevy Silverado 1500 can tow up to 13,300 lbs and carry a payload of up to 2,280 lbs. 

How do the Silverado 1500 and F-150 perform? 

A 2021 Ford F-150 driving
2021 Ford F-150 | Ford

With the 5.3-liter V8 engine, the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about seven seconds. The transmission shifts smoothly, and the handling is secure, but the steering can be light, and bumps are felt in the cabin. 

With the new hybrid powertrain, the 2021 Ford F-150 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.7 seconds, but the powertrain lacks smoothness at lower speeds. The steering is responsive, and the truck feels incredibly nimble. The ride is pretty smooth too. 

Both the Silverado and F-150 have a spacious interior with plenty of legroom. However, the Silverado feels a little dated, and the F-150 provides a little more visibility. The Silverado’s massive hood can limit what you see ahead. 

Both trucks offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the graphics could be sharper in the Silverado 1500. The Ford F-150 provides more modern features, such as the available 12-inch center touchscreen. 

It seems like the Ford F-150 is currently ranking ahead of the Chevy Silverado because it recently had a refresh. However, once the Chevy Silverado receives a total redesign, it might pull ahead of the competition. 

RELATED: Will the Electric Ford F-150 Actually Be Affordable?

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Ignoring Reality Maybach Adds Length, V12 Power, and Calf Massage

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The big, bold, and burly 2021 Mercedes Maybach flagship is bucking convention, carbon footprints, and trends, by offering everything including the kitchen sink. It’s now longer, with V12 power, and just for grins it even has a calf massager. And no, we’re not kidding. C’mon, it’s a Maybach.

Called the Maybach S-Class it is Mercedes’ flagship sedan meant to rival Rolls-Royce

Mercedes Maybach S-Class | MB

Officially called the Maybach S-Class, it is available now only in Europe. First off, it is seven inches longer than your standard S-Class LWB. All of that extra length is found in the rear passenger area. Externally, you can tell it’s the top-of-the-line by the vertical chrome strips in the grille, chrome trim on the hood, fixed quarter lights in the C-pillars, and new wheels. 

For a real exclusive look, you can opt for the two-tone that breaks at the beltline. Visually, it adds length, plus exclusivity. It is applied by hand and adds an extra week to the time it takes to assemble the Maybach. 

The 2021 Maybach’s interior looks like something from the disco era

Mercedes Maybach S-Class interior
Mercedes Maybach S-Class | MB

Inside, it is all-new for 2021. Besides the calf massager, there is all of that 1980s disco blue edge lighting. Or should it be called “edgy lighting?” Yikes! It may be exaggerated in the Mercedes-supplied images. If not, then you’ll need sunglasses morning, noon, and night, inside this thing. 

Other 2021 Maybach interior features new this year are the electrically operating rear doors, front seat backrests, “high quality” wood surrounds, active noise cancellation, and that lighting which is said to be adaptive. 

Yes it’s true, the 2021 Maybach has a calf massage function

Mercedes Maybach S-Class V12
Mercedes Maybach S-Class | MB

Now, about the calf massage function. It is integrated into the calf rests for the executive seats in the rear only. While you’re having your calves massaged, you can check out the chilled champagne found in the fridge that holds up to 10 liters. For your champagne, Mercedes provides a set of silver-plated champagne flutes as an option. No, we’re not kidding. 

To help separate the Maybach from the standard S-Class the rear wheel arches have been redesigned with an added cavity. The cavity allows Mercedes to add extra sound-deadening material for that extra hush ride. Adding to that is thicker laminated glass, noise-optimized tires with foam absorbers added, and that noise cancellation system. 

As stated earlier, with the 2021 Maybach you get your choice of either the S580 4Matic powered by a 4.0-liter V8 or the S680 4Matic with that 6.0-liter V12. With the V8 you get 496 hp and stepping up to the V12 gets you 603 hp. If you opt for the V12 it is only available with all-wheel-drive; a first for Mercedes. 

There is no word on if or when this ne-plus-ultra Maybach will be available in the US. For Europe, it will be in showrooms fairly soon. 

RELATED: It’s Not Your Bach, It’s Maybach

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2022 Honda Civic Touring vs. Toyota Corolla Apex: Which Compact Sedan Wins?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Among the Toyota Corolla’s main rivals, the Honda Civic is one of the fiercest. And for 2022, the Honda Civic gets a significant update. However, the Corolla hasn’t exactly been stagnant. 2021 saw the release of the sporty limited-edition Toyota Corolla Apex. But which compact sedan reigns supreme? YouTube team The Straight Pipes decided to find out.

The 2022 Honda Civic Sedan Touring keeps an old engine but gets new looks, more tech, and better handling

2022 Honda Civic Sedan | Honda

The 2022 Honda Civic Sedan brings something—well, two things—from the 2021 model. That would be its engines. The lowest two 2022 Civic Sedan trims get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that, as before, makes 158 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque. And the EX and Touring trims, like their 2021 counterparts, have a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Plus, the 2022 Honda Civic Sedan only has one transmission: a CVT.

However, the 2022 version of the 1.5-liter engine is slightly more powerful. The 2022 Honda Civic Sedan Touring The Straight Pipes drove makes 180 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque, 6 more hp and 15 more lb-ft than before. So, while the 2022 Civic Sedan is slightly heavier, on paper, the automaker claims it’s just as fast. Car and Driver’s initial testing contradicts those claims, but the publication notes it tested a low-mileage example.

The black front seats and dashboard of a 2022 Honda Civic Sedan Touring
2022 Honda Civic Sedan Touring front interior | Honda

Powertrain aside, the 2022 Honda Civic Sedan is significantly reworked compared to the 2021 model. It’s slightly longer and stiffer, MotorTrend notes, with a wider rear track. Its suspension and electric power steering have also been retuned. With grippier tires, reckons “the Civic Touring would pull an impressive imitation of a Volkswagen GTI.”

While the 2022 Honda Civic Sedan’s exterior resembles the Accord, the compact’s interior apes the overseas “chic” e, MT says. And it comes packed with tech. All 2022 Civics come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a digital driver’s display, LED headlights, and the Honda Sensing driver-assistance suite with lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control. Plus, a 7” touchscreen with a physical volume knob.

The range-topping Touring, though, has even more tech. It gets a 9” touchscreen, Bose audio system, fully digital gauge cluster, navigation, wireless charging, and parking sensors. Also, leather-trimmed seats and wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE Apex puts more ‘sport’ in the sensible sedan

A silver 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition
2021 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition | Toyota

Among the 2021 Toyota Corolla’s multiple trim levels, the Apex Edition is limited to the SE and XSE. And based on the features on the Corolla Apex in The Straight Pipes’ video, it appears the hosts tested an SE model.

Compared to the 2022 Honda Civic Sedan Touring, the 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex is down on power. Under its hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 169 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. However, unlike the Civic Sedan, the Corolla Apex offers something besides a CVT. Of the 6000 Corolla Apex Editions Toyota is selling in the US, 120 have a six-speed manual. And while the XSE trim has more standard features, on the Apex Edition models, the manual is SE-only. Plus, it features hill-start assist and downshift rev-matching.

A side view of the black front seats and dashboard of a 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE Apex Edition
2021 Toyota Corolla XSE Apex Edition front interior side | Toyota

In terms of performance features, every 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex has stiffer springs, a lower ride height, stiffer anti-roll bars, and re-tuned dampers. It also has a catback exhaust, retuned electric power steering, and grippy summer tires are a no-cost option. And the Corolla Apex also gets lighter-weight aluminum wheels, sport seats, and a body kit with a front spoiler, rear diffuser, and optional rear spoiler.

Trim-wise, the 2021 Toyota Corolla SE Apex sits roughly in the middle of the Corolla lineup. That means its standard features include keyless entry, an 8” center touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 ADAS suite. Said ADAS suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking. However, the Corolla SE Apex doesn’t offer blind-spot monitoring, not even as an option.

Which compact car did The Straight Pipes prefer?

When The Straight Pipes tested the 2020 versions of the Civic and Corolla, the Honda won. And in the case of the 2022 Honda Civic Sedan Touring vs. 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex, the Civic won again.

Acceleration-wise, both compact sedans are fairly even. But the 2022 Civic delivers solid handling without the ride quality drawbacks of the Corolla Apex’s suspension. Yes, the Corolla Apex corners well, and with minimal body roll. But on normal roads and highways, it’s “way too stiff” and “bouncy,” The Straight Pipes found. And while it has that manual transmission, the 2022 Civic Hatchback, Si, and Type R will offer one, too.

As far as interior quality and tech are concerned, the seats in the Toyota Corolla SE Apex have better bolstering. And its infotainment system has a few more hard buttons. Plus, it’s about $3000 cheaper. However, the touchscreen in the 2022 Honda Civic Sedan Touring is larger and has a better resolution. Plus, the Civic’s lane-centering assist is slightly better than the Corolla’s version. The Honda also has more interior space overall.

In short, although the 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex has some sporty sparkle, the 2022 Honda Civic Touring is the better compact sedan.

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RELATED: Consumer Reports: Mixed Feelings About the 2022 Honda Civic

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