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Miami Herald
16 hours ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Some Compact SUVs Are Posers. We Tell You Which Ones
Boasting woodsy, rugged names and rugged styling, it's easy to be lured into believing that any such compact SUV will serve you when venturing off-road. If all you're doing is trotting down a gravel path, heck, you can do that in a Toyota Camry. Scared of driving in the snow? Throw snow tires on it. However, for those who crave off-road ability in a compact package, the number of posers far outweighs those equipped with the extensive array of features and systems needed. Let's separate the posers from the real deal. Despite being 21 inches longer than the original Bronco, the 2025 Bronco Sport seems closer to the original than its larger, modern sibling. A turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four and an eight-speed automatic transmission provide 250 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive, front tow hooks, underbody skid plates, a standard 18:1 crawl ratio, and a front camera are standard, as is a torque-vectoring rear differential and 7-mode Terrain Management System that alters the throttle, transmission, brake response, steering effort, and the all-wheel-drive system depending on mode. In addition, the Sasquatch Package, offered on Outer Banks and Badlands trims, adds revised steel bumpers, a front bull bar, rear recovery hooks, more ground clearance, and 29-inch all-terrain tires. The Badlands trim also comes with Bilstein rear dampers, while the Outer Banks gets a twin-clutch rear differential. Yes, it lacks a traditional transfer case with a low range, and it shares its platform with the Ford Escape, but it's no poser, with 8.8 inches of ground clearance and 7.4 inches of wheel travel. Added to the CR-V line-up for 2026, the first off-road variant of Honda's most popular vehicle disappoints. While Honda's first TrailSport model, the Passport TrailSport, added the sort of gear you'd expect, the CR-V must make do with off-road rubber, some software changes below 12 mph, TrailSport badging, modestly revised fascias, and hill descent control, which is unavailable on other CR-Vs. You also get exclusive Ash Green paint. But that's hardly enough to merit paying more. Just buy a cheaper CR-V trim and add your own off-road tires. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain delivers 204 horsepower to all four wheels while delivering an EPA-rated 38 mpg, although premium fuel is recommended. While not a true boulder basher, its off-road rubber works wonders in snowier climes, and can be kept on year-round, making it ready for freakish weather any time. While far from the most refined compact SUV, the Jeep Compass Trailhawk does deliver the goods for trekking into the forest primeval. Powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, it generates 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. Jeep's Active Drive 4x4 system comes equipped on the Trailhawk with a lockable first gear 20:1 crawl mode. There are also selectable Auto, Snow, Sand/Mud, and Rock off-road driving modes, along with 8.5 inches of ground clearance, skid plates, red front and rear tow hooks, hill-descent control, 19 inches of water fording ability, and a 2,000-pound towing capacity. On the flip side, the Compass' eight-year-old design and handling aren't as refined as its competitors, but it does look like a Jeep Grand Cherokee that's been left in the dryer too long. For some, that and its abilities may be enough to seal the deal, but it's getting a full redesign for 2026, making it possible to snag a great deal on a 2025. This is another compact SUV that's all hat, no cattle. Oh sure, the 2025 Nissan Rogue Rock Creek Edition looks more roguish, with its unique gloss black front grille and front fascia, gloss black mirrors, tubular roof rack, 235/65R17 Falken Wild Peak all-terrain tires, water-repellent leatherette seats with red accent stitching, and piano black dashboard trim, but that's all. Its 8.2 inches of ground clearance is unchanged from other Rogue models, and the approach and departure angles are no different. Like the Honda, it at least has all-wheel drive, hill descent control, and an around-view monitor, making it easier to venture into fields of rocks and fauna. Power comes courtesy of a 1.5-liter Variable Compression Turbo three-cylinder engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission that produces 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. While the engine is supposed to provide superior performance with excellent fuel economy, it seems to never be quite good enough at either, delivering an EPA-rated 29 mpg on regular unleaded. We prefer the honesty of other Rogue models, which don't promise what they can't deliver. You could buy a 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness, but a revised rendition comes out for 2026, sporting 9.3 inches of ground clearance and greater suspension travel. It also wears wider 235R17 Yokohama Geolander All-Terrain footwear, boasts a higher 3,500-pound towing capacity, and gains a rear differential temperature sensor. It makes for a capable performer, with an approach angle of 23.5°, a ramp breakover of 21°, and a departure angle of 25.5°. Power comes from a horizontally-opposed 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission that has a shorter final drive ratio to enhance low-speed crawling. It's rated at a non-too-powerful 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. Nevertheless, it can hold 800 pounds on its roof while stationary and 176 pounds when moving. Yes, it gets a visual upgrade to denote its abilities, but it also receives functional ones, like underbody protection and bumper tow hook covers. Inside, the interior is sheathed in animal-free, water-resistant StarTex upholstery, and its X-Mode system comes with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud driving modes. While not the hard-edged off-roader of its American competition, there's enough here to trundle into the unknown with some confidence. For the 2025 model year, Toyota discontinued the most off-road-capable RAV4 models, namely the RAV4 TRD Off-Road. This leaves the 2025 RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition. Unlike the TRD Off-Road, the Woodland has no skid plate, no rear driveline disconnect, no crawl control, no hill descent control, nor a multi-terrain select system with mud, sand, rock, dirt, and snow drive modes. What it does have is Falken WildPeak all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a TRD-tuned off-road suspension, and electronic all-wheel drive. It's powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission that produces 219 horsepower and an EPA-rated combined fuel economy rating of 39 mpg. All RAV4 Hybrid Woodlands come with selectable Eco, EV, Sport, Normal, and Trail drive modes, with the latter working as a virtual limited slip differential, according to the automaker. Toyota once produced a true off-road worthy RAV4, but its discontinuation after 2024 proves that RAV4 owners want the fashion, not the function, of off-roading. What this comparison proves is that a number of SUV owners seem to like their car's image and the promise of capability, whether it actually has it or not. One suspects it's the SUV's packaging they appreciate: the high step-in height and riding position, the flexibility of carrying lots of people or cargo, and the ability to overcome freakish, unexpected changes in weather. But most compact SUVs don't deliver to the extent most buyers think, particularly Japanese ones. The last one that did, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, shown above, is now history. The reality is that if you need a capable off-roader, American-nameplate vehicles offer the capability you crave for true off-roading. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Auto Blog
18 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
I Drove the All-New 2025 Honda CR-V TrailSport. Here's My Brutally Honest Review
Yet another SUV in off-road guise The 2026 Honda CR-V is well-known and widely driven, being the most popular Honda sold in America, with more than 400,000 of them sold last year. While Toyota takes all kinds of credit for its hybrids, Honda deserves its share of credit, as nearly half of CR-V buyers justifiably choose the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder hybrid driveline. It returns better EPA-rated fuel economy than its conventional turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder sibling, as high as 43 mpg in combined city/highway driving vs 30 mpg. It also delivers more power, at 204 horsepower for the hybrid versus 190 for the conventional powertrain. Since Honda recommends 91 octane fuel, you'll want to use as little gasoline as possible. 0:03 / 0:09 Thinking about buying a Toyota RAV4? These 5 rivals might change your mind Watch More 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport — Source: Honda What makes the Honda CR-V an American favorite Regardless of which driveline you choose, you'll find the Honda CR-V has self-assured handling and a spacious interior that offers 104 cubic feet of passenger space and a generous 36 cubic feet of cargo room. It's a fairly quiet place, with a roomy back seat and nice interior furnishings. If it's within your budget, the Honda CR-V Hybrid is the model to choose. It starts with the front-wheel-drive Sport Hybrid, at $37,025 including destination charge, and ascends through the Sport Hybrid AWD, TrailSport Hybrid AWD, Sport-L Hybrid FWD, Sport-L Hybrid AWD, and Sport Touring Hybrid AWD, topping out at $43,645. Non-hybrid versions are more affordable, with the LX FWD starting at $30,920 including destination charge, climbing up through LX AWD, EX FWD, EX AWD, EX-L FWD, and EX-L AWD at $38,295. All CR-Vs come with a continuously variable automatic transmission. 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport — Source: Honda The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid can tow up to 1,000 pounds in Hybrid trim, or 1,500 pounds with the non-hybrid driveline. The payload capacity for the hybrid is 840 pounds, while non-hybrid variants have a capacity of 1,106 pounds. Front-wheel drive is available on all trims except for TrailSport and Sport Touring trims, which get standard all-wheel drive only. All-wheel drive is available on lesser trims for an additional $1,500. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport — Source: Honda For 2026, the Honda CR-V can be optioned with a 10.2-inch infotainment screen, 46% larger than before, while the standard touchscreen is now two inches larger, measuring 9 inches. A wireless smartphone charger, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are now standard. There are new wheel designs, of course, and hybrid models are notable by their exterior blackout trim around the windows. Low-speed traction control has been improved. A new twist to a perennial bestseller 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport — Source: Honda Of course, if you noticed an unfamiliar name among the trim levels, it's the TrailSport Hybrid, a trim level slowly spreading across the Honda vehicle lineup to entice off-road buyers. First seen on the 2022 Honda Passport midsize SUV, it continues on the redesigned 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport, which adds all-terrain 31-inch tires on 18-inch wheels, an off-road tuned suspension, recovery hooks, skid plates, roof rails, a heated windshield and an integrated Class III trailer hitch with harness that can yank 5,000 pounds of your favorite towable plaything. While it lacks a way to lock the Passport TrailSport into low gear, engaging Sport mode and manually shifting into first gear comes close. One would expect such additions to the 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport. 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport — Source: Honda Given its mainstream audience, you wouldn't expect it to traverse truly challenging terrain, but you might expect more than what Honda delivers. While we love the CR-V, we come away disappointed by the TrailSport. The 2026 CR-V TrailSport Hybrid package includes revised trim garnishes to the front and rear fascias, unique badging, logos stitched into the headrests, off-road tires, revised software at speeds below 12 mph, and standard hill descent control, which isn't offered on other CR-Vs. Still, there's little here to encourage true off-roading, which even the Passport possesses, such as underbody skid plates and tow hooks. More tellingly, the TrailSport's 16.1-degree approach angle and 21.3-degree departure angle are no different than those of the CR-V Sport Hybrid, meaning you might save money by adding your own off-road tires and getting as much dirt-tromping proficiency. Even its 8.2 inches of ground clearance is offered on other trims. Venturing into some modest off-road conditions, one that might lift a tire in the air, but the conditions provided are otherwise not much of a challenge. So yes, we find the CR-V executes its tasks flawlessly, but one gets the sense you could do it in any CR-V, or even in a Honda Accord. 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport — Source: Honda Thankfully, Honda's fitting of off-road tires does little to affect the handling on-road, although you feel the rubber working its heart out to maintain grip while cornering. Regardless, grip is still surprisingly good, as is road feel, which is far greater than you'd expect. Steering is well-weighted, and body lean is moderate. Bump absorption is fairly good, and the CR-V has a notably quiet cabin at speed, particularly for a Honda. Its driveline also makes it easy to drive smoothly. In fact, the qualities that make the Honda CR-V such a nice SUV to drive remain intact, revealing how little it has really been changed on the TrailSport. 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport — Source: Honda Final thoughts 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport We love the improvements made to the CR-V for 2026, and were enthused when first hearing of its new TrailSport trim. But the reality proves disappointing, as the changes are minor at best and do not add much to the CR-V's current capabilities. That the majority of CR-V buyers will never contemplate going off-road is something Honda executives know, and they say they tailor each TrailSport package to its model line and buyers. That is certainly true here. Given the paucity of upgrades, one wonders why Honda even bothered to offer it. Then again, the same could be said of similar efforts from Toyota and Nissan. We did love the exclusive Ash Green paint and off-road wheels, and the exclusive trim toughens the CR-V's looks. If that's all that you require, we have the SUV for you. About the Author Larry Printz View Profile
Miami Herald
21-06-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Nissan Rogue Generations Overview: How It Became The Top-Selling Nissan
Many years after Honda and Toyota established their grip on the compact crossover segment with the CR-V and RAV4, Nissan arrived on the scene with the Rogue. Like those crossovers, the Rogue aimed to be a little bit of everything to buyers: Cheap enough, practical enough, and with a bit more rough-road capability than a sedan or hatchback. Over three generations, the Rogue has gone on to become Nissan's best-selling model in the United States; only the Sentra is anywhere close to it in 2025 so far. Here's an overview of each Rogue generation and how the crossover has changed through the years. This Nissan Rogue's model years were from 2008 to 2013, after going on sale in 2007. It had slightly oddball styling from the front, even after a mid-cycle refresh for 2011. Power comes from a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, with front-wheel drive being standard and all-wheel drive an option. From the Nissan Rogue's first year, all models used a CVT, and this has generally been one of the Rogue's weak points. Not only did the CVT create a noisy, unrefined driving experience, but this transmission was unreliable, even leading to a class-action lawsuit filed against the brand. If you're willing to live with the CVT and keep up with maintenance, the rest of the Rogue package is pleasant enough. Efficiency was good, crash-safety scores were high, and the Rogue was practical enough. It's a pity that this model was held back by a lackluster powertrain. Related: Toyota RAV4 Generations Overview: Evolution Of The Crossover Pioneer Manufactured for the 2014 to 2020 model years, the second-gen Rogue was a larger and more handsome crossover. Nissan managed to free up enough space for an optional third row, something that set apart the T32 from most rivals, although it could only offer up 31.4 inches of legroom in this back row. The company persisted with its CVT transmission and the same 170-hp four-cylinder engine, so there was no improvement in performance. Reliability remained an issue with the CVT, so much so that Nissan extended the warranty on second-gen Rogues, but that was merely a Band-Aid on a bullet wound. For the 2017 model year, the Rogue gained a hybrid model with 176 hp - it returned up to 34 mpg combined, as opposed to the non-hybrid model's 29 mpg. Overall, the second-gen Rogue was more practical but continued to be let down by sluggish acceleration and CVT issues. Despite this, Rogue sales in the USA reached over 400,000 annual units in 2017 and 2018, the last time it achieved this level of sales success. Related: Hyundai Tucson Generations Overview: How This RAV4 Rival Has Evolved On sale since the 2021 model year, the T33 is the current generation of the Nissan Rogue. Inside and out, this is a big leap forward, with the T33 boasting the smartest of all Nissan Rogue body styles and a plush interior, especially on top trims, which get features like quilted leather upholstery. Initially, Nissan stuck with its 2.5L four-pot with 181 hp, but this was soon replaced by an all-new 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine. This smaller mill had variable compression technology, allowing for a better balance of power and economy. Its 201 hp and 225 lb-ft were better than before, and FWD models can achieve 33 mpg combined. Unfortunately, Nissan continued to stick with a CVT, spoiling the driving experience. In December 2013, an investigation into engine failure was also opened, concerning the 1.5-liter unit, continuing a theme of powertrain maladies that have affected all generations of the Rogue. We do know that a new Rogue Hybrid is on the way, and this will fill a major gap in the Rogue lineup, since the RAV4 and CR-V both have more powerful hybrid options. We only hope this model achieves the performance, refinement, and reliability to match the many strong attributes of the T33. Related: This Is The Most Reliable Nissan Rogue Model Year Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Malaysian Reserve
20-06-2025
- Automotive
- Malaysian Reserve
Customers Can Now Buy a Used Honda CR-V in Raleigh, North Carolina
Buyers looking for a reliable and well-equipped SUV can opt for a used Honda CR-V at Auction Direct USA. RALEIGH, N.C., June 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Drivers looking for a reliable and feature-packed SUV can now access an impressive selection of used Honda CR-V models at Auction Direct USA, located at 7601 Glenwood Ave in Raleigh, North Carolina. These pre-owned CR-Vs offer a smart balance of value, comfort and safety—making them a solid pick for individuals and families alike. Known for its durable design and practical layout, the Honda CR-V delivers convenience across the board. Many of the available models feature adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, which adjusts speed automatically based on surrounding traffic—great for I-540 and long stretches of I-40. The Blind Spot Information System (BSI) adds an extra layer of awareness when changing lanes, while Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration keep calls, messages and music easily accessible on the road. Inside, each CR-V is loaded with thoughtful features like dual-zone automatic temperature control, heated front bucket seats and a power moonroof that brightens up the cabin. Comfort meets function with cloth seat trim, a rear seat center armrest and a split folding rear seat that opens up additional space for everything from sports gear to grocery bags. The rear window defroster and rear wiper help maintain visibility in changing weather—ideal for North Carolina's varied seasons. In terms of safety, the CR-V is built with ABS brakes, electronic stability control, brake assist and a suite of airbags—including knee airbags and rear side-impact airbags. A rearview camera, fully automatic headlights and auto high-beam functionality help drivers stay aware of their surroundings both day and night. On the outside, features like body-color bumpers, heated mirrors, alloy wheels and a sporty spoiler make this SUV as stylish as it is functional. The CR-V's four-wheel independent suspension and traction control system provide a stable ride whether navigating city traffic or heading out for a weekend getaway. Anyone interested in exploring a used Honda CR-V can stop by Auction Direct USA or call 844-678-8048 to speak with a member of the expert service team. Test drives and appointments are available daily. Media Contact: Tony Kicinski, 844-678-8048, tonyk@
Auto Blog
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Honda Helps Keep Aging Cars Alive With New Parts Program
For Honda, Old School is Cool For decades, Honda has built its reputation on bulletproof reliability, clever engineering, and cars that often outlived their owners' expectations. Models like the Civic, Accord, CR-V, and Prelude have proven their salt as more than just dependable daily drivers – they were companions, project cars, or even family heirlooms. 0:02 / 0:09 Nissan's revolutionary self-driving tech hits Japan's streets Watch More Many Hondas from the 1980s and '90s are still running today, thanks to loyal owners and a strong aftermarket support. These cars weren't always flashy, but they forged deep emotional connections with people who came of age behind their wheels. The problem is that these discontinued Hondas are becoming increasingly challenging to maintain, with parts getting scarcer each decade. Thankfully, Honda has found a solution. Source: Honda Keeping Old Hondas on the Road To ensure that classic Hondas stay on the road, the company has announced it will begin globally supplying OEM-compatible parts for discontinued vehicles, starting in spring 2026. This is big news for enthusiasts, restorers, and long-time owners, who are struggling to find replacement components. Rather than abandon these aging models, Honda, with the cooperation of various partners, is investing in new solutions to continue supplying replacement parts that are no longer available. These solutions include 3D printing and 'remanufacturing,' which is essentially refurbishing used products and reselling them as functionally new products. Honda claims that these parts will meet the same performance and functional standards as the original ones, and are meant to preserve the function and performance of older Hondas. Original NSX Will Kickstart the Program Honda hasn't shared the list of supported models, but we know which one would kickstart the program. It will be the first-generation Acura NSX (or Honda NSX in other markets), which debuted in 1989. Yes, the mid-engine Japanese supercar is now 36 years old, and it will be the first vehicle covered under a new factory-backed restoration service launching in Japan that will operate in tandem with the parts program. This new offering will effectively replace the NSX Refresh Plan, which has been in place since 1993 and will officially end in summer 2025. Unlike the outgoing program, the new restoration effort will use both genuine and OEM-compatible parts to make service more accessible to a wider range of customers. More details are expected to be released in fall 2025, although Honda hinted that other enthusiast models could be included in the future, potentially classics like the Honda CRX or early Civic Si. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Source: Honda About the Author Jacob Oliva View Profile
