Watch: 7 Cars Imported Illegally Got Destroyed: It’s Ugly to See

by Gabrielle DeSantis

First off, this did not happen in the US. The destruction of these seven desirable vehicles happened in Indonesia. The Genesis and Solara we can live with, but it is the McLaren and 911 Porsche that makes us cry. 

Indonesia’s Bureau of Customs destroys illegally imported vehicles no matter how rare or valuable

Illegal Philippines vehicles smashed | Indonesian Bureau of Customs

Indonesia has its own way of dealing with illegal vehicles. The Bureau of Customs has no choice but to <a href="http://<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgmanews%2Fvideos%2F218514070114339%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true">destroy illegal property. And if it is a McLaren 620R, then so be it. This is the sad fate of many illegally seized vehicles all over the world. 

In this case or cases, the cars were imported between 2018 and 2020. These seven cars were imported illegally. The story behind some of them is not known, but as for the McLaren, we know the details through social media. 

Why was the McLaren smashed?

Illegal Philippines Porsche smashed
Illegal Philippines vehicles smashed | Indonesian Bureau of Customs

The person importing the McLaren claimed it was a Porsche Cayman. He thought it would sneak by customs and he would pay less in taxes than what it actually was. So this was a clear case of tax dodging and Indonesia does not take the crime lightly. 

Back in 2017 Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte came down hard after a wave of illegally imported vehicles showed up. He ordered that such vehicles be destroyed, in part to send a message to importers that there would be no second chance for the contraband. Even if it was a rare McLaren 620R.

Besides this latest batch of seven seen here, an additional 14 discovered at another port were also smashed. These 21 were preceded by an additional 17 the government destroyed earlier this year. So, yeah, we’d say they’re very serious about sending a message. 

Over $1.1 million in illegal cars were destroyed in this smash-fest

Illegal Philippines vehicles smashed
Illegal Philippines vehicles smashed | Indonesian Bureau of Customs

Valued at over $1.1 million, this latest group includes the aforementioned McLaren and Porsche 911 C2S. But there was also a 2007 Bentley Continental Flying Spur, Hyundai Genesis, Toyota Solara, and others that were not noted. The method of destruction was a garden-variety backhoe continually smashing against the vehicles. 

Illegally importing vehicles appears to be quite a problem in the Philippines. Back in 2018, there were almost 100 illegally imported vehicles destroyed. They were valued at $6 million. The destruction was also displayed to the public to drive the point home. 

Of course, the question becomes if destroying them is meant to be a deterrent, but large quantities of vehicles continue to be imported illegally, then is it working? We would say not. And if this many are being brought in illegally and discovered, how many sneak through without detection?

RELATED: WATCH: Police Crushed Ferrari 458 Spider, Owner Sues

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The Best New Cars Under $40,000 According to TrueCar

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Shopping for a new car can be an expensive endeavor. Plenty of new cars will have you spending upwards of $40,000. The good news is that you don’t have to spend $40,000 when car shopping. The even better news is that TrueCar recently revealed its picks for the best new cars under $40,000. Let’s find out what they are.

The 2022 Honda Insight is one of the best new cars under $40,000

2022 Honda Insight | Honda

The 2022 Honda Insight isn’t just one of the best new cars under $40,000, TrueCar reports. It’s also a remarkably fuel-efficient new car that’s designed to make the most out of every gallon that you put into it. In fact, this year’s model comes equipped with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, both of which deliver an EPA-estimated 55 mpg in the city and 49 mpg on the highway. According to the EPA, the Insight saves drivers $4,000 in fuel costs over five years when compared to the average new car.

As for how much the 2022 Honda Insight actually costs? Opt for a base model, and you can anticipate spending $25,210 on this affordable new hybrid. Upgrade to the range-topping Touring, and the Insight costs approximately $29,240. But if you aren’t looking to spend quite that much? TrueCar reports that the 2022 Honda Insight comes stock full of standard features, including remote engine start, Honda Sensing, and an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. 

The 2021 Honda Accord is a favorite among new car shoppers

The 2022 Honda Insight isn’t the only new Honda that made TrueCar’s list. In fact, the 2021 Honda Accord also found itself among the best new cars under $40,000. Though, that shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. The Honda Accord has been a favorite among its segment for quite some time. For good reasons too.

Boasting a starting price of $24,970, at its most expensive, this year’s Accord costs approximately $36,900. But when it comes to the most popular Honda Accord trim? TrueCar suggests taking a gander at the Honda Accord EX-L. This particular trim costs $31,290 and comes well-outfitted with features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, a wireless phone charger, a blind spot information system, leather-trimmed seating, a one-touch power moonroof, and more. 

The 2021 Toyota Prius Prime is a fuel-efficient new car under $40,000

Much like the 2022 Honda Insight, the 2021 Toyota Prius Prime is a fuel-efficient new car. It’s also one of the best new cars under $40,000. It comes equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, a battery pack, and a continuously variable automatic transmission. This year’s model also delivers an EPA-estimated 54 mpg combined city/highway and a 133MPGe combined city/highway. The 2021 Toyota Prius Prime can drive up to 25 miles on electricity alone, too, TrueCar reports.

Available in three trim levels, the most popular Toyota Prius Prime trim is reportedly the XLE. This particular trim level starts at $30,000. It includes a slew of great features too. In fact, slip behind the wheel of this fuel-efficient new car and enjoy premium interior amenities like SofTex-trimmed heated front seats, Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging, and an 11.6-inch touchscreen display featuring premium navigation.

The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq is both affordable and remarkably fuel-efficient

A white 2021 Hyundai Ioniq EV driving, the 2021 Hyundai Ioniq EV is one of the best new cars under $40,000
2021 Hyundai Ioniq EV | Hyundai

The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq found itself among the best new cars under $40,000 too. This year’s Ioniq starts at $23,400 and, according to TrueCar, is a tempting option for car shoppers who do a lot of driving. It’s not only available with a hybrid, plug-in, or electric powertrain, but it also comes well-stocked with standard features, including push-button start, dual automatic temperature control, and an 8-inch touchscreen display featuring both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

When it comes to the most popular Hyundai Ioniq trim level? TrueCar reports that the EV Limited is a favorite among new car shoppers. It starts at $38,815 and boasts an estimated range of up to 170-miles. This year’s new Ioniq Limited also comes standard with leather seating surfaces, a Harmon Kardon premium audio system, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen display featuring navigation.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is the best new car under $40,000

Last but certainly not least is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata, which, according to TrueCar, is the best new car under $40,000. “The midsize family sedan’s low starting price and class-leading warranty bolster its outstanding value, while upscale styling, agile handling, and a spacious interior make it a compelling everyday driver,” reports TrueCar.

They aren’t wrong either. This year’s model starts at $23,950. Opt for the range-topping Limited, and you’ll be spending approximately $33,950 on this affordable new car. Regardless of which trim you choose, this year’s new Hyundai Sonata also comes standard with three years or 36,000-miles of complimentary vehicle maintenance, which is pretty hard to beat when shopping for a new car. 

Which new car is the best option for you and your budget?

When it comes to the best new cars under $40,000, TrueCar highlighted several options that are worth checking out. But when it comes to choosing the best option for you and your budget? That’s going to take a test drive.

RELATED: The 6 Most Improved New Cars and SUVs of 2021 According to U.S. News

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The 2021 Lexus RX and the 2021 BMW X5 Are Both Safe – But Only One Is an IIHS Top Safety Pick

by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you’re in the market for a new midsize luxury SUV, you’ve probably considered both the 2021 Lexus RX and the 2021 BMW X5. So which is safer, the Lexus RX or the BMW X5? The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash-tested them both. They each got great ratings, but only one is a Top Safety Pick award. 

2021 BMW X5 | BMW

What is an IIHS Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ award?

A silver 2021 Lexus RX against a white background.
2021 Lexus RX | Lexus

An IIHS Top Safety Pick award is given to a vehicle with good ratings in all of the IIHS crash tests. These tests include the driver-side small overlap front, the passenger-side small overlap front, and the moderate overlap front. In addition to these front crash tests, the vehicle must get a good score in the side crash tests, roof strength, and head restraint tests. 

Additionally, any Top Safety Pick must have an advanced or superior in both the vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian tests. Available headlights must have a good or acceptable rating. 

How crashworthy are the 2021 Lexus RX and 2021 BMW X5?

The 2021 Lexus RX and 2021 BMW X5 both got a good small overlap front: driver-side score. Within this category are subcategories, including structure and safety cage, driver injury measures, and driver restraints and dummy kinematics. Overlap tests measure how well a vehicle does when part of the front hits a barrier. Additionally, the small overlap front: passenger-side category and subcategories were all good for both. So were the moderate overlap front subcategory results. 

Side crash test ratings were also all good. These subcategories contain similar elements to the front crash tests: overall, structure and safety cage, driver injury measures. There’s also driver head protection and rear passenger injury measures, as well as rear passenger head protection. 

The roof test, head restraints and seats in the 2021 Lexus RX and 2021 BMW X5 all got good scores including overall, dynamic rating and seat/head restraint geometry. A strong roof keeps SUV occupants safe in the event of a rollover. Additionally, head restraints and seat ratings are important because neck injuries and whiplash are common car accident injuries. 

How are the crash prevention systems in the RX and X5?

Both crash prevention systems in the 2021 Lexus RX and 2021 BMW X5 were superior. Crash prevention systems keep vehicles from getting into accidents in the first place (and finding out just how safe their SUV is). 

However, neither the 2021 Lexus RX and the 2021 BMW X5 had good headlights. Headlights are important because you need to be able to see the road. This is especially important to avoid accidents at night. The headlights in various Lexus trim levels range from poor to acceptable. Even worse, the headlights for some of the 2021 BMW X5 trim levels were poor. 

Overall, which is safer, the Lexus RX or BMW X5? If you’re looking for a midsize luxury SUV that the IIHS finds crashworthy, both the 2021 Lexus RX and 2021 BMW X5 have good crash test results. The headlines make a difference, so shop carefully. 

RELATED: The Audi Q7 Is Almost Perfect

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The 2021 Chevy Colorado Is Dominating the Toyota Tacoma

by Gabrielle DeSantis

We have to give it up for the 2021 Chevy Colorado! It currently outranks the 2021 Toyota Tacoma. As the Chevrolet Colorado climbs the ranks, it feels like an underdog, but it has earned its current position. But why does it rank ahead of the Toyota Tacoma? 

The 2021 Chevy Colorado vs. the 2021 Toyota Tacoma 

2021 Chevy Colorado | Chevrolet

According to the U.S.News, the 2021 Chevy Colorado currently ranks ahead of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma on the list of the best compact trucks for 2021. The Colorado is in third place, while the Ford Ranger is in second place and the Honda Ridgeline sits in the top spot. The Toyota Tacoma is all the way down in fifth place. 

The U.S.News ranks vehicles based on various factors based on reviews by respected critics and third-party data that includes the performance, strength, value, interior quality, safety ratings, reliability, and more. As new information is released, rankings may change. 

Why does the Colorado rank ahead of the Tacoma? 

RELATED: How Many Miles Will a Chevy Colorado Last?

The 2021 Chevy Colorado ranks highly for having a high towing capacity, capable V6 and turbo-diesel power trains, an easy-to-use infotainment system, and a smooth ride with responsive handling. 

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma ranks highly for having outstanding off-roading capabilities, a long list of standard features, and an easy-to-use infotainment system. It has fewer positives listed than the Colorado. 

You can get started in the new Chevy Colorado for about $25,200. The Toyota Tacoma begins at about $26,400, so they’re pretty competitively priced. The Colorado gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and up to 30 mpg on the highway, while the Tacoma gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. 

The Colorado has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder base engine with 191 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. The 3.6-liter V6 engine provides 308 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. If you go with the turbocharged 2.8-liter four-cylinder engine, you’ll get 181 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. 

The Tacoma has a 2.7-liter four-cylinder base engine that provides 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. You can upgrade to the 3.5-liter V6 engine for 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. 

When properly equipped, the Chevy Colorado can tow up to 7,700 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,550 lbs. The Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,685 lbs. Both can tow campers, boats, and more. 

How do the Colorado and Tacoma perform? 

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma going off-roading, the Tacoma TRD Pro is one of the best new off-road pickups according to Edmunds
2021 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

With the V6 engine, the 2021 Chevy Colorado can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.3 seconds, which is pretty good. The transmission is pretty smooth, and the firm suspension limits body roll. A little wind and road noise may enter the cabin.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.2 seconds. The transmission is smooth, and the brakes are precise. Thicker side-window glass cuts down on road noise, and it’s a little bumpy compared to rivals. 

Taller drivers may find the larger seats in the Tacoma to be more comfortable. It might also be easier to fit child seats in the Tacoma. Both trucks have adequate storage space for smaller items. 

The Toyota Tacoma has an edge against rivals for having more off-roading capabilities. But the Chevy Colorado can tow a little more and offers a smoother ride. We recommend giving both options a test drive.

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