Driven Car Reviews

New York Times contributor and Emmy Award-winning automotive journalist Tom Voelk looks at all things cars.

2025 Nissan Murano Platinum Bumps Up Against Luxury Competitors 05/12/2025

2025 Nissan Murano Platinum Bumps Up Against Luxury Competitors The 4th generation Nissan Murano has been a long time coming. Last redone in 2014, the 2025 version gets fresh Ariya-inspired design, new engine tech and, drumroll please, a 9-speed transmission. That’s right, no more CVT. It’s strong competition for Chevy Blazer, Honda Passport and Mazda CX70, but could distract Acura RDX, Lexus LX and Lincoln Aviator shoppers. Tom Voelk checks out a fully loaded Platinum AWD model on a snowy day. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/35831455

I Bought a High-Performance EV. The Deals Are Incredible. 05/06/2025

I Bought a High-Performance EV. The Deals Are Incredible. Yes, I’ve FINALLY bought an EV. How does a guy that drives a different vehicle every week decide on a personal car? Very slowly. And carefully. I break down what I was looking for and why I got what I got. The plan is to cover this car more in the future. But know this- there are some amazing values out there and, if you’re patient, it’s possible to score over 50% off the original MSRP or more on low mileage cars after just a couple years. Plus there’s a fire sale on Tesla vehicles. Wonder why? /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/35832770

2025 Chevy Trax is Affordable Transportation Done Right 05/05/2025

2025 Chevy Trax is Affordable Transportation Done Right You might not need inexpensive transportation, but friends and family might. I spent a week in the Chevy Trax. Fully loaded? Under $28K. GM executed about perfect here. It’s not overly fast (hey it’s a budget priced car) but it’s refined, roomy and looks great inside and out. Most people think it’s a $40K car. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/36329200

Genesis Unveils the Magma Racing GMR-001 Hypercar! 04/27/2025

Genesis Unveils the Magma Racing GMR-001 Hypercar! On the eve of the New York International Auto Show, Genesis took the wraps off its new Genesis Magma Racing GMR-001 Hypercar at Genesis House. Since you can't be there, I shot the introduction video and unveiling. It will be laying the groundwork for the team’s 2026 WEC debut, and then the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Designed at Genesis Design Europe under Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke, the powertrain and chassis are being developed in partnership with ORECA Motorsport. No words here, just video. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/36329250

The Genesis X Gran Equator Concept Should Be Built Right Now 04/27/2025

The Genesis X Gran Equator Concept Should Be Built Right Now On the eve of the New York International Auto Show, Genesis unveiled the X Gran Equator concept at Genesis House. No words here, just video. But it speaks for itself. Genesis did not talk about power trains, but looking at the front it’s likely electric. Long of hood with a split tailgate, it’s clearly aimed at the one percent. And check out the interior with loads of leather pouch storage and not a touch screen to be had. Enjoy this video of the unveiling! And hope that it gets built. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/36329225

Tour the 2025 New York International Auto Show 04/27/2025

Tour the 2025 New York International Auto Show Can’t come to the 2025 New York International Auto Show? Tom Voelk has all the reveals and highlights so you can check it out from your couch. At 125 years old, the NYIAS is the oldest auto show in the US. You could spend a day checking out everything, or watch as Tom packs it into 20 minutes of highlights. Concepts. SUVs. Electric Vehicles. Exotics. Plus the newest of the new. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/36328565

2025 Acura ADX A-Spec AWD is Big News in a Small Package 04/02/2025

2025 Acura ADX A-Spec AWD is Big News in a Small Package People want refinement, style, comfort, utility and pride of ownership out of a car. Acura offers up the all-new ADX compact crossover. Starting at $36,350 with shipping, it undercuts Audi Q3, BMW X1, Lexus UX, Mercedes GLA and Volvo XC40 on price but delivers on features. It’s the entry level SUV that Acura has needed for a while. Tom Voelk travels to the San Diego, CA region to test out an ADX A-Spec Advance AWD in Urban Grey paint to see if the “Integra of crossovers” has a winning formula. Tom attended an Acura sponsored event to review the ADX. Opinions remain his own. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/36329025

2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the Best One Yet 01/17/2025

2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the Best One Yet Chevy’s Equinox is one of the most popular crossovers in class. For 2025 it gets a major overhaul with a new rugged approach to design. Simply put, it’s a sizable improvement over the outgoing generation. Tom Voelk checks out a lightly optioned all-wheel drive ACTIV version with it’s General Grabber all-terrain tires and finds it doesn’t take a lot of extras to make it a solid competitor. And yes it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/34783965

Life With Hyundai IONIQ 5 N 01/13/2025

Life With Hyundai IONIQ 5 N Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N is brilliant on the race track. Does that mean a punishing and high-strung dynamic during everyday driving? Maybe not. Tom Voelk snags one for a week to see if the range, charge speed and utility are ready for family hauling when not chewing up a raceway. This is after all, on Tom’s short list of cars to buy. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/34783935

The Best Vehicles of 2024 01/09/2025

The Best Vehicles of 2024 Here’s my Top 11 List for 2024 folks, the cars, trucks and SUVs that I feel offer value, design, utility and innovation. It’s hard to narrow down, competition is fierce. But here ya go. Happy New Year! It’s going to be interesting… /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/34783885

2024 Lincoln Nautilus is More Than Just a Huge Screen 11/01/2024

2024 Lincoln Nautilus is More Than Just a Huge Screen Lincoln’s Nautilus is new for 2024 and the big news is a huge screen. 4 feet wide, it dominates the interior. Does it work or is it just a gimmick? Tom Voelk checks out a loaded AWD Reserve III trim with the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine ($1,500 buys the more powerful hybrid powertrain). The display is impressive but hardly the only thing to like about this 5-seat SUV. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/33257157

2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Gets More Room and Style 10/30/2024

2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Gets More Room and Style Like the first-generation Hyundai Kona, gen two is available with gas and all-electric powertrains. Bigger, roomier, more refined and quicker to charge now, Kona Electric should be more appealing to more buyers. Make sure you buy the right model though since the SE’s battery and motor are different. Tom checks out a loaded $42,440 Limited model at an event in Monterey, CA. He figures the sweet spot is the SEL that retails for some four grand less. Tom attended a Hyundai event for this review and spent limited time with the Kona Electric. He opinions remain his own. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/32351587

2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 is Ultimate Stealthy Refinement 10/29/2024

2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 is Ultimate Stealthy Refinement Premium vehicles are all about sophistication. It’s a good argument for the BMW i5, a fully electric 5 Series. Packed with tech, refinement and a dollop of Ultimate Driving Machine dynamics, electrification might be the best way to experience the 5 Series (though ICE and PHEV version are available). People admiring the design may be oblivious it’s missing a gas powertrain. It’s just that subtle. And no trips to the gas station. Tom Voelk checks out a rear-wheel drive eDrive40 model. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31953752

2024 Hyundai Elantra N is Big Affordable Fun 10/28/2024

2024 Hyundai Elantra N is Big Affordable Fun Want enthusiast grade driving dynamics at a reasonable price? Hyundai offers bang-for-the-buck with the Elantra N. Upgraded for 2024, there are some real changes that make it a better car, things like improved brakes and forged aluminum alloy wheels. And at just under $35,000 it’s fully loaded with grippy sport seats, adjustable suspension and Bose sound. And yes, there’s a 6-speed manual. Tom Voelk checks it out on an autocross course at WeatherTech Laguna Seca. Tom attended a Hyundai sponsored even for the review. Opinions are his own. Accuracy is important. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31953677

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is a Tire Shredding Machine 10/26/2024

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is a Tire Shredding Machine Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N is equipped with N Drift Optimizer. In the hands of N Brand Vice President JooN Park, the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 tires are shown no mercy. Watch as he obliterates the rear rubber in short order. For now, full driving impressions of the IONIQ 5 N are under embargo, but I’ll be sharing my experience at Weather Tech Laguna Seca soon. A hint? It’s a must see. Subscribe and click notifications so you don’t miss it. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31056873

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited AWD is Sleek and Sixy 10/23/2024

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited AWD is Sleek and Sixy Hyundai’s all-electric Ioniq 6 has racked up dozens of awards and accolades. It’s fast, rides well, charges quickly and wears daring Streamliner design sheetmetal. If you’re looking for a curvy EV with the most squares, this is your sedan (and you don't see many 4-doors these days).. Tom Voelk snags one from Hyundai for a week for a full shakedown and finds it be one of the most enjoyable electric sedans on the market. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31523422

2024 Ford Ranger XLT 4x4 is Right-Sized Capability 10/21/2024

2024 Ford Ranger XLT 4x4 is Right-Sized Capability Is F-150 is too big? Maverick too small? The new 2024 Ford Ranger is a tiny bit larger than the outgoing model and that adds big benefits. 4-foot-wide material sheets load between the wheel wells. The cabin gets a more inviting look. It has the smoothest turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in its class. It goes down the road in a relaxed manner (due in part to its mid-sized form factor). Tom Voelk checks out a well-equipped XLT 4x4. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31525912

2024 Mazda3 Carbon Turbo AWD Sedan is Stealthy 4-Door Fun 10/20/2024

2024 Mazda3 Carbon Turbo AWD Sedan is Stealthy 4-Door Fun Want fun, affordability and practicality from your next ride? The Mazda3 enters the chat. Starting at $25,400, the Carbon Turbo is the sweet spot at 33 grand, adding turbocharged power and all-wheel drive. It’s roomy enough to handle a small family and engaging enough to entertain enthusiastic drivers. Plus, the Carbon Editions are easy to buy (if only because there are no color or option choices). Tom Voelk drives the sedan (and really there are plenty of 4-door choices). /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/33257122

2025 Kia Carnival MPV Hybrid is an Efficiency MVP 10/20/2024

2025 Kia Carnival MPV Hybrid is an Efficiency MVP Kia’s Carnival has always offered space and comfort. The refreshed 2025 model adds something big- a hybrid powertrain for significantly better efficiency. How does it stack up against the hybrids in Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica? Tom Voelk travels to Detroit, MI for a first look at the top trim SX Prestige trim. Kia brought Tom to Michigan for this preview. His opinions remain his own. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/33256832

2025 Kia K4 is a Better Forte (Especially With Turbo Power) 10/19/2024

2025 Kia K4 is a Better Forte (Especially With Turbo Power) The new Kia K4 sedan is a lot more than a Forte with a name change. Available in the fall of 2025, it gets dramatic new sheetmetal and a powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder. How does it compare to Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mazda3, Subaru Impreza and Volkswagen Jetta? Tom Voelk travels to Detroit, MI to preview the top trim GT-Line Turbo model. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/33257047

Chevrolet Silverado EV RST Goes The Distance 10/15/2024

Chevrolet Silverado EV RST Goes The Distance With a bladder busting range of 440 miles, the impressive 2024 Chevy Silverado EV RST packs a punch. It's all here- Fast 350kW charging, dual motor 4WD, 0-60 in 4.5 seconds, four wheel steering, air suspension, vehicle-to-home power ability and Super Cruise. Quiet, comfortable and surprisingly nimble there's a lot to like... so long as you have $96,500 to spare for a pickup truck. Tom Voelk and John Voelcker team up and spend a day with the Silverado EV. They have some thoughts to share, especially about the new interface. Tom attended a press event sponsored by General Motors. Opinions remain stubbornly his. CORRECTION- The interface screen is 17.7 inches, not 17.1 if that makes a difference in your purchasing decision. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31526002

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV is Electrification for the (Normal) People 10/14/2024

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV is Electrification for the (Normal) People EVs cost less to operate, fuel at home and can be fun to drive. Chevrolet adds something radical with the new Equinox EV- normalcy. It’s a compact SUV with loads of room and 319 miles of reach, practically eliminating range anxiety. Can Chevy appeal to the masses? It just might with a starting price of $35,000 before any tax credits. Tom Voelk teams up with Car and Driver contributing editor John Voelcker in Detroit, MI to find out. They drive a mid-level front-wheel drive 2LT with Super Cruise and check out life without Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Tom attended a GM sponsored event to produce this video. His opinions remain true. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31526102

This Is One Tough EV Charging Installation! 10/12/2024

This Is One Tough EV Charging Installation! I have finally installed 240V Level 2 charging at my home. What took so long? Well, my house is over 100 years old, the garage is detached, set into the side of a hill and made of concrete. So no matter how complex the job, it can be done! It's probably much easier for most people, but you might learn something here. For starters, don't skimp on the charger (I ended up with a hardwired ChargePoint Home Flex). Unintended bonus? My wife is super happy how quickly her Chevy Volt charges now. It's a big update from 120V Level 1. Helpful links to buy ChargePoint Home Flex (FYI, I make no commission) ChargePoint- Amazon- https://amzn.to/4cz3anR /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/30173108

Rivian R2 and R3 Are the Next Big Thing in Smaller EVs 10/11/2024

Rivian R2 and R3 Are the Next Big Thing in Smaller EVs Love the Rivian look but find the R1S too large (or expensive)? The two-row R2 and even smaller R3 will right those wrongs. Rivian stopped by Seattle's University Village store to show off the upcoming R2 and sporty R3X. Expected sometime in 2026 with a range of at least 300 miles, the R2 has the luxury and features of R1S in a tidier package. R3X is for those looking for something even smaller but want the clever Rivian touches. Tom Voelk previews the R2 and R3X with the help of Rivian's Kenneth Tsang. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31525977

2024 Mudfest Picks the Best SUVs and Pickups 10/11/2024

2024 Mudfest Picks the Best SUVs and Pickups 20 SUVs and pickups. 20 automotive writers. One grand prize winner. Now in its 30th year, Mudfest is a two-day competition put on by the Northwest Automotive Writers Association. Held at The Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, WA, NWAPA members judge on and off-road capability, value, features, cargo room, efficiency and technology. It's a tough job, but someone has to do it. Thanks to The Ridge Motorsports Park, Alderbrook Lodge and Spa, member of NWAPA, and all of the manufacturers reps that traveled to Shelton, WA. Also, special thanks to the staff of Page One and DriveShop, Aaron Hansen, Erin Kemp, John Vincent, Nik Miles and Jim Redden for their hours of volunteer time. And a shout out to Martin Campbell, Tom Frisch and Doug Berger for additional photography /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/32351172

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is Breakthrough Performance 10/09/2024

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is Breakthrough Performance Typically, the formula for performance vehicles is to add power, stiffen the suspension and bolt on some sticky tires. Hyundai took things much further with the IONIQ 5 N, adding N e-Shift, N Active Sound +, N Grin Boost and more. Those Ns mean nothing to many now but they will soon. Deep and powerful, IONIQ 5 N has the potential to join the ranks of performance greats while doing double duty as a family hauler. Tom Voelk travels to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca to experience the all-electric 5 N with 221 miles of range and ultra-fast charging speed. Tom attended a Hyundai sponsored event to drive the IONIQ 5 N. Opinions remain his own. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/33264167

Dirty Dancing with Ford’s 2024 Mustang Mach-E Rally 10/09/2024

Dirty Dancing with Ford’s 2024 Mustang Mach-E Rally Cross a Mustang Mach-E with a Subaru WRX and you get the Rally. Ford starts with the updated performance bits of the 2024 GT, then adds an inch of lift, underbody protection, rally wheels with optimized tires and a Cessna sized wing. Perfect for getting to the trail head or running forest service roads at speed. Tom Voelk checks it out at DirtFish Rally School in Snoqualmie, WA with head instructor Jack Harrison. Pay attention, Jack’s tips will make you a better driver. Tom attended a Ford sponsored event to produce this video. Opinions remain his own. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/32351292

2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally Extreme Ride-Along With Vaughn Gitten Jr. 10/08/2024

2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally Extreme Ride-Along With Vaughn Gitten Jr. For good clean fun in the dirt, there’s nothing quite like the new 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally. And who better to demonstrate that than pro driver Vaughn Gitten Jr? Tom Voelk rides shotgun with JR on the back forty of DirtFish Rally School in Snoqualmie, WA to find out what 480 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque can do in the hands of a professional. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/33264192

2025 Toyota 4Runner is All-New... Finally 06/07/2024

2025 Toyota 4Runner is All-New... Finally At last, there’s an all-new Toyota 4Runner! The 6th generation gets a Platinum and Trailhunter trims for the first time. The V6 is gone, replaced by a turbocharged 4-cylinder i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder making 278 horsepower or the i-FORCE MAX hybrid 4-cylinder with up to 326 horses. Both get 8-speed transmissions. If that sounds familiar, 4Runner is based on the same TNGA-F architecture as the new Tacoma pickup. The 2025 Toyota 4Runner should go on sale in the fall of 2024. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31056828

2024 Ford Ranger XLT is Right-Sized Capability 06/04/2024

2024 Ford Ranger XLT is Right-Sized Capability Is F-150 is too big? Maverick too small? The new 2024 Ford Ranger is a tiny bit larger than the outgoing model and that adds big benefits. 4-foot-wide material sheets load between the wheel wells. The cabin gets a more inviting look. It has the smoothest turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in its class. It goes down the road in a relaxed manner (due in part to its mid-sized form factor). Tom Voelk checks out a well-equipped XLT 4x4. /episode/index/show/drivencarreviews/id/31056768

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