by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you’re anxious to see Nissan’s new all-electric SUV, the Nissan Ariya, which should debut in late 2021, doesn’t sound like it would disappoint. Since its current electric SUV, the Leaf, has a reputation for dependability, it will be interesting to see how the Ariya stacks up. 

According to U.S. News, Ariya’s styling won’t offer too many changes when it finally hits the dealership lots. What can we expect with it and is it worth buying?

What’s does the 2022 Nissan Ariya look like?

The 2022 Nissan Ariya | Zhe Ji/Getty Images

The only surprise that comes from the design of the 2022 Nissan Ariya is that it’s almost identical to the concept car that we saw at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. It’s quite unusual to see the stylistic design remain the same all the way to the production vehicle. It happens, but it’s really rare. 

With this model, we see that it has a black grille, small projector LED headlights, and boomerang-shaped running lights adorning the front of the SUV. In the back, we see wrap-around tail lights, and the sharp-looking slope extending from the roof and down the rear. 

On the other hand, we see much of the same style in other SUVs in the lineup. The Nissan Murano and the Rogue both have that same coupe-like slope in the back, albeit at varying degrees, though. So, maybe they just couldn’t come up with a better design than the one they had for the concept car. 

Will it be worth it?

The Ariya is Nissan’s second shot at an all-electric vehicle behind the Leaf. The two models offered for the Nissan Ariya are the Standard Range and the Long Range versions. The Standard model offers a 63 kWh battery pack, while the Long Range has an 87 kWh battery. 

No matter which one you choose, you will still have the option to pick either a front-wheel or an all-wheel drivetrain. The FWD model has only one electric motor that powers the front wheels. In a 0 to 60 mph run, the Ariya clocks in a 7.5 second time. In the AWD version, there are two motors that run the front and back wheels. 

Speed, however, is a little faster with a 5-6 second 0 to 60 mph acceleration time. When it comes to driving range, you could get around 300 miles, provided you have the Long Range with the 87 kWh battery. The other version only gets around 210-220 miles. 

Looking at its performance, it really doesn’t seem worth it, unless you choose the Long Range model and the all-wheel drivetrain. Plus, the first version in a redesign year is typically untrustworthy. The Standard version won’t offer much unless you’re looking for something to get around town in. But, even then, there are plenty of other SUVs available that would offer more value. 

What features will the 2022 Nissan Ariya have?

If you’re looking for optimal storage space, the Nissan Ariya has an average amount when compared to others in the class. Behind the rear seats, you get 23 cubic feet of storage and 60 cubic feet if you fold down the rear seats. What’s a little disappointing, though, is the fact that it doesn’t have a “frunk,” or front truck area. That could’ve brought a substantial amount of more space to compete with its rivals. 

When it comes to tech, you will get a 12.3-inch dual touchscreen infotainment system that offers smartphone integration. Other available amenities that the Nissan Ariya has, include a moonroof, head-up display, and its semi-autonomous driving feature known as the ProPilot system.

Pricing for this model is not known yet, but what we do know is that it should start around $40,000 for the Standard version. It should begin production soon and arrive in late 2021. 

When Nissan finally rolls out the Ariya on U.S. soil, we won’t likely see much difference in the styling than what we saw with the concept vehicle. Since the design isn’t really all that bad, though, it’s not likely to be a deal-breaker. 

RELATED: The 2022 Nissan Ariya Is a Huge First Step for the Automaker

The post Don’t Expect Many Changes From the Style of the 2022 Nissan Ariya Concept appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Chevy Tahoe is one of the first three-row vessels that comes to mind when someone mentions a family vehicle. It’s an icon of mobility, highly capable of moving a lot of people and things. However, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas puts one particularly important Chevrolet Tahoe feature to shame. 

Chevrolet Tahoe | Michael Brochstein/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

At a glance, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas looks significantly different than the larger 2020 Chevy Tahoe. It’s easy to see the two and assume that cabin and cargo space is vastly larger inside of the Tahoe. Some buyers may look to the 2020 Tahoe to save some money since the all-new 2021 version is out and in high demand.  

a white 2020 Volkswagen Atlas on display at an auto show
The Volkswagen Atlas | MARK RALSTON/AFP via Getty Images

But apparently, not everything is as meets the eye. Let’s compare the cargo space between the Atlas and the Tahoe to find out a bit more about these two popular family SUV models. 

How much cargo space does a 2020 Chevy Tahoe have? 

A brown 2021 Chevy Tahoe is parked outside of a house.
Redesigned 2021 Chevy Tahoe | Chevrolet

The 2020 Chevy Tahoe is a large three-row SUV that has high predicted reliability ratings. But its shortcomings prompted some big changes in the most recent fully redesign of both the interior and exterior, according to U.S. News and World Report

One of the Chevy Tahoe’s calling cards has always been its size. Chevrolet’s Suburban takes the cabin space up a notch, but the Tahoe is still plenty spacious. However, the 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe fell a bit short. According to Car and Driver, the 2020 Tahoe can manage only four carry-on suitcases behind the third row.  

Behind the third row seat, the 2021 Chevy Tahoe offers more cargo space now that it’s fresh off a redesign. In fact, the newest Chevrolet Tahoe is a much more spacious SUV than before. So let’s talk a little more about the tighter space inside the 2020 model. 

Behind the third row, the 2020 Chevy Tahoe is a family SUV that offers just 15.3 cubic ft. of cargo space. This isn’t small, but compared to rivals it falls short. Behind the second row, there are 51.7 cubic ft. and with all the seats down the 2020 Chevy Tahoe offers 94.7 cubic ft. The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas offers even more. 

Is the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas interior nice? 

a gray Volkswagen Atlas on display at a show next to a new VW type 2 electrified bus
2020 Atlas | Erik Voake/Getty Images for Volkswagen

Car and Driver call the Atlas a “competent SUV lacking the upscale feeling of some of its rivals.” It also describes the interior as “spartan” or “uninspiring.” On the other hand, C/D also commends the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas for offering great value and loads of interior space for people and stuff. In fact, before the Tahoe’s recent redesign, the Volkswagen Atlas put the Tahoe’s cargo specs to shame. 

Behind the third row, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas can also fit 4 carry-on suitcases. However, its measurement is over 5 cubic ft. larger than the Tahoe at 20.6 cubic ft. behind the second row, the 2020 Atlas offers 55.5 cubic ft. of room and with all of the seats down, Atlas drivers get 96.8 cubic ft. of cargo space. 

Is the Atlas better than the Tahoe? 

These are two very different SUVs. Neither of them offer fantastic fuel economy. The Chevy Tahoe will obviously be the better vehicle if you need a bigger brute for things like towing and hauling. However, most buyer probably think that the Tahoe is always a better option in terms of cargo space. 

But it turns out that until the recent redesign, the 2020 Chevy Tahoe fell short in terms of cargo space. In fact, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas put that surprising Chevrolet feature to shame. Both of these family SUVs are good options, and the choice will obviously always be subjective to the buyers. That said, if cargo space is a high priority, you may find your family rolling around in a Volkswagen––not a Chevrolet. 

RELATED: These Chevy Heavy Duty Pickup Trucks Are in a Weird Top Spot

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by Gabrielle DeSantis

You need to check out the 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R. This new high-performance model of the Honda Ridgeline transforms this truck into a more capable beast with a more aggressive look and higher quality materials. 

The 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R is coming 

2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R rendering | Honda

According to Pickup Truck News, the 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R is in the works. The Ridgeline is one of the most dependable options in the market, so it’s time to catch up to rivals that offer high-performance variants such as the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and Jeep Gladiator Rubicon. 

The Ridgeline Type R is expected to have a more bold and aggressive appearance to attract drivers to its sportier attitude. It will need a sharper appearance to match its added muscle and to stand out against other trim levels. 

It’s safe to expect a unique blacked-out grille design with LED headlights and a more aggressive front bumper to highlight the front fascia. This will be paired with broader air vents and large air intakes. 

But remember, the R in Honda Type R stands for racing. So instead of being lifted for off-roading, the Ridgeline Type R could be lowered. It’s expected to ride on sporty 19-inch wheels. 

How much power will the Ridgeline Type R have? 

You can’t upgrade a truck for racing without increasing engine power. That’s why the 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R could gain more power. Rumors suggest that it will use the same 3.5-liter V6 engine that it currently has, only it will be retuned. 

This engine provides 280-hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The exact numbers haven’t been released, but it could pump out 400 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. According to Edmunds, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. This is fast for a midsize truck but a little lacking for a racer. 

This increased amount of power could help the Ridgeline tow more than 5,000 lbs too. All-wheel-drive could come standard, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see a rear-wheel-drive variant for a sportier performance. Also, the VTEX system and direct-injection fuel system will be available. 

How much does the Honda Ridgeline Type R cost? 

a red 2021 Honda Ridgeline driving on a country road
2021 Honda Ridgeline | Honda

We’re still waiting to learn more, but the 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R is expected to begin at about $50,000. This would make the Type R more expensive than the Black Edition Honda Ridgeline, which is currently the top trim level. 

But the interior and exterior upgrades will be worth it. A sporty steering wheel, leather seats, Type R badging, and contrast stitching will make things pop. The layout will remain close to its current setup but could include more advanced and driver-focused tech. 

The additional standard features could include a bigger tachometer. Plus, a clutch pedal and a new gearbox could be available. This makes us wonder if a manual transmission is in the works. At the least, paddle shifters are expected. 

The new Ridgeline Type R is expected to be available at the beginning of 2022, so we could learn more by the end of the summer. This truck already has one of the smoothest and sportier rides available, so the racing additions will really take things up a gear. 

RELATED: The Honda Ridgeline Tried Off-Roading and Surprised Everyone

The post The 2022 Honda Ridgeline Type R Is a Brand New Beast appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Whether you buy a car new or used, depreciation will start to rear its ugly head over time. But what if you could buy a car that appreciates in value over time? No, we’re not talking about investing in a classic car that’s more of a showroom piece than a daily driver. We’re talking about these five older Japanese sports cars that actually could make you richer in the future.

The Honda S2000 offers top-down fun and a hefty return on investment

2009 Honda S2000 | Honda

Introduced in 1999 for the 2000 model year, the Honda S2000 was the successor to the S600 of the 1960s. True to the original driver-centric form that Honda originally intended, the S2000 offered buyers a thrilling driving experience that wasn’t hindered by modern electronics and driver-assist aids. That’s right, its high-revving 2.0-liter engine produced 237 hp and could spin up to 8,800 rpm, making the S2000 one of the most engaging driver’s cars to date. What’s even better is that it was rear-wheel-drive and only came with a six-speed manual transmission.

According to Albon, you could pick up an S2000 in the early 2010s for around $10,000. But nowadays, their value has doubled as many S2000s are now selling for around $20,000 to $30,000 regularly. If you’re able to pick one up now, you could be sitting on a gold mine in the future.

The Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 was an under-the-radar icon

It might be really hard to find a Mitsubishi 3000GT nowadays, let alone a VR-4 model, but it’s worth the effort. The 3000GT VR-4 was powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine that made 300 hp and 308 lb-ft of torque. To supplement this monstrous engine, the 3000GT VR-4 was equipped with all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering for better handling. According to Motor Trend, this beast of a car was able to go from 0-60 mph in just 4.8 seconds, which was respectable at the time.

You can currently find Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 models selling for anywhere between $25,000 to $40,000. However, those prices have been trending upward as only 16,000 VR-4 models ever made.

The Toyota MR2 Turbo offers some twitchy rear-end fun

a white 1992 Toyota MR2
1992 Toyota MR2 | Wikimedia Commons

The second-generation Toyota MR2 Turbo still turns head to this day, despite being 30 years old. You can blame its aggressive, low-slung look for that. But what makes it more attractive is its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 200 hp and is mated to a slick-shifting five-speed manual transmission. Add a rear-drive, mid-engine configuration in the mix and you have a Japanese pocket rocket that’s as fun to drive forward as it is to drive sideways.

About 10 years ago, you could find clean MR2 Turbos for sale for around $10,000. Nowadays, you can expect to pay around $15,000 to $25,000 for a clean model. It’s a steep price to pay, but you might be able to make it all back in the future.

The Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 has comfort and power

Mitsubishi Galant VR-4
Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 | Wikimedia Commons

The Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 was only produced for the 1991 and 1992 model years, so it’s exceptionally rare. What made the Galant VR-4 so special was that it was a family sedan with a Lancer Evolution drivetrain. That’s right, this special Galant made 240 hp, thanks to its 4G63 2.0-liter engine, and it only came in an all-wheel-drive configuration.

Only 3,009 of these models were ever made in the U.S., so finding one can be tough. But if you do find one, then you can expect to pay around $10,000. That doesn’t sound like a lot for a rare car, however, that could be in your favor considering it will be rarer in the future.

The Mazda RX-7 is tough to find, but worth it

Mazda RX-7
Mazda RX-7 | Wikimedia Commons

Lastly, who can forget the Mazda RX-7? While it can be hard to find a highly-coveted, third-generation RX-7, is still worth the time and effort to do so. The third-generation RX-7 was a sleek-looking, rear-drive coupe powered by a twin-turbo rotary engine that produced 255 hp and 217 lb-ft of torque, according to Automobile.

Right now, you can expect to pay around $25,000 for a 93-95 Mazda RX-7 and up to $40,000 for one in near-showroom condition. Yes, it’s a lot to pay, but you can only imagine how much an RX-7 will be worth in the near future.

RELATED: Are Japanese Cars Really More Reliable?

The post These 5 Japanese Sports Cars Could Make You Richer in the Future appeared first on MotorBiscuit.