Cautious First Step

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2024 Honda Prologue marks the automaker’s first foray into the all-electric SUV market.

After a week behind the wheel of the top-tier Elite trim, it’s clear that Honda has crafted a competent electric vehicle, albeit one that plays it safe in a rapidly evolving segment.

At first glance, the Prologue’s design is refreshingly normal. Its handsome, well-proportioned exterior could easily be mistaken for a conventional gasoline-powered crossover. This approach may appeal to buyers seeking a familiar aesthetic in their transition to electric driving.

Inside, the Prologue showcases Honda’s strengths in interior design. The cabin is logically laid out, with high-quality materials and solid construction throughout. Spaciousness is a key selling point, with ample room for passengers and cargo alike.

The integration of Google-based infotainment and standard features such as heated seats and wireless smartphone compatibility add to the appeal.

On the road, the Prologue delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. The suspension strikes a good balance between ride comfort and handling, while the responsive steering provides confidence in various driving situations.

The Honda Prologue’s handsome, conventional styling helps ease the transition to electric driving for buyers accustomed to traditional SUV designs.

However, acceleration lacks the exhilarating punch found in some electric competitors, and driving enthusiasts may find the overall experience somewhat uninspiring.

Range anxiety shouldn’t be a significant concern for most buyers. The EPA-rated range of 273 miles for the AWD Elite trim (up to 296 miles in 2WD configurations) is competitive for the class.

DC fast charging capabilities of up to 150 kW allow for reasonably quick top-ups on longer journeys.

Honda’s comprehensive charging solutions, including partnerships with major charging networks and home installation options, should help ease the transition for first-time EV buyers. The inclusion of charging credits and multiple package options is a thoughtful touch.

Safety is well addressed with Honda Sensing, the brand’s suite of driver assistance technologies, coming standard across all trims. These systems work unobtrusively to provide peace of mind during daily driving.

However, the Prologue’s pricing strategy may prove challenging for some potential buyers. Starting at $47,400 for the base EX trim and climbing to $59,750 as tested for our fully-loaded Elite model, the Prologue commands a premium over similarly-sized gasoline-powered alternatives.

A spacious, well-crafted cabin with ample technology showcases Honda’s strengths in interior design, making the Prologue a comfortable daily driver.

While the available $7,500 federal tax credit helps offset this cost for many buyers, it still positions the Prologue at the higher end of the non-luxury EV SUV segment.

Ultimately, the 2024 Honda Prologue represents a solid, if somewhat conservative, entry into the electric SUV market. It delivers on Honda’s core strengths of practicality, comfort and build quality, wrapped in an attractive and familiar package.

For Honda loyalists or those seeking a no-fuss transition to electric driving, the Prologue makes a compelling case.

However, in a rapidly evolving EV landscape filled with innovative and sometimes quirky offerings, the Prologue’s play-it-safe approach may leave some buyers wanting more. Its competence is commendable, but it lacks the exciting performance or cutting-edge features that might set it apart from the growing competition.

For buyers prioritizing reliability, familiarity and Honda’s reputation for quality, the Prologue offers a comfortable stepping stone into the world of electric vehicles. But those seeking the bleeding edge of EV technology or thrilling performance may want to look elsewhere or wait to see how Honda evolves its electric offerings in the future.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?
2024 Honda Prologue Elite ($57,900). Options: Premium paint ($455). Price as tested (including $1,395 destination charge): $59,750
Wheelbase: 121.8 in.
Length: 192 in.
Width: 78.3 in.
Height: 64.7 in.
Power: Dual electric motors (combined 288 hp, 333 ft. lbs.)
Range: Up to 296 miles
MPG Equivalent: 99 city, 84 highway

RATINGS

Style: 9
Performance: 6
Price: 4
Handling: 6
Ride: 7
Comfort: 7
Quality: 9
Overall: 7

WHY BUY IT?

The 2024 Honda Prologue offers a familiar and practical electric SUV experience with competitive range, making it an appealing option for those transitioning from traditional gasoline vehicles to EVs.

Posted in Honda

Practicality Meets Adventure

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition is a compelling blend of practicality and rugged appeal, catering to buyers who want the efficiency of a hybrid with a dash of outdoor capability.

After a week behind the wheel, it’s clear that this special edition RAV4 delivers on its promises, even if it doesn’t rewrite the compact SUV rulebook.

At the heart of the Woodland Edition is Toyota’s proven hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a total system output of 219 horsepower.

This setup provides adequate, if not thrilling, acceleration while delivering impressive fuel economy figures of 38 mpg in the city and 35 on the highway. For many buyers, this balance of performance and efficiency will be the RAV4 Hybrid’s strongest selling point.

On the road, the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension tuning strikes a good balance between comfort and control, soaking up road imperfections without feeling overly soft.

Steering is light, making the RAV4 easy to maneuver in urban environments despite its SUV proportions. However, enthusiasts seeking engaging dynamics may find the overall driving experience somewhat bland.

Clad in eye-catching Army Green paint with black accents, the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition’s rugged aesthetic hints at its enhanced off-road capabilities.

Where the Woodland Edition sets itself apart is in its off-road-oriented additions. The TRD-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and increased ground clearance give this RAV4 more capability when the pavement ends. While it’s not a hardcore trail machine, it’s more than capable of handling light off-road duties and unpaved roads with confidence.

Visually, the Woodland Edition makes a strong statement. My tester’s Army Green paint with a black roof looked particularly striking, complemented by bronze-colored TRD wheels. The rugged aesthetic is further enhanced by black exterior accents and badges. It’s a look that should appeal to outdoor enthusiasts without being overly aggressive.

Inside, the RAV4’s cabin remains a study in practicality. The layout is intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and operate. Material quality is good, if not class-leading, with plenty of soft-touch surfaces in key areas.

The new-for-2024 Weather Package, which adds heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, is a welcome addition for colder climates.

Cargo space is generous, and the standard 1.25-inch rear activity mount adds versatility for those who frequently carry bikes or other outdoor gear. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats easily expand the cargo area when needed.

The RAV4 Hybrid Woodland’s cabin prioritizes functionality and comfort, with intuitive controls and ample cargo space for outdoor adventures.

Toyota’s latest infotainment system is a marked improvement over previous iterations, with responsive touch inputs and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The available 11-speaker JBL audio system delivers crisp, powerful sound that music enthusiasts will appreciate.

Safety remains a strong suit for the RAV4, with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 coming standard. This suite of driver aids includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking, providing peace of mind for daily driving.

At $38,334 as tested, the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition represents solid value in the compact SUV segment. While it’s pricier than base RAV4 models, the added features and capability justify the premium for the right buyer.

However, the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland isn’t without its compromises. The hybrid powertrain, while efficient, doesn’t provide the instant torque some drivers might expect from an electrified vehicle. Road noise is also more pronounced than in some competitors, likely due in part to the all-terrain tires.

Ultimately, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition succeeds in its mission to offer a more adventurous take on the popular compact SUV without sacrificing the practicality and efficiency that have made the RAV4 a bestseller.

It’s a vehicle that makes a strong logical case for itself, even if it doesn’t stir the soul like some more performance-oriented rivals.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland ($34,945). Options: Woodland water package ($925), two-tone paint ($500), door sill protector ($199), faceless HomeLink mirror ($175), wheel locks ($65), fog light accent ($175). Price as tested (including $1,350 destination charge): $38,334

Wheelbase: 105.9 in.
Length: 180.9 in.
Width: 73 in.
Height: 67 in.
Power: 2.5-liter four cylinder plus electric motors (combined 219 horespower)
Transmission: Continuously variable
Fuel economy: 38 city, 35 highway

RATINGS

Style: 7
Performance: 6
Price: 8
Handling: 7
Ride: 5
Comfort: 6
Quality: 9
Overall: 7

WHY BUY IT?

The RAV4 offers an appealing mix of efficiency, practicality and light off-road capability, wrapped in distinctive styling that stands out from the compact SUV crowd.

Posted in Toyota

Genesis Elevates G70

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2024 Genesis G70 offers a series of thoughtful updates that elevate an already impressive package, further solidifying its position as a formidable competitor in the luxury sports sedan segment.

After a week test driving the 3.3T RWD model, it’s clear that Genesis has honed the G70’s winning formula to near perfection.

At the heart of this G70 is the carryover 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6, producing a robust 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant is an absolute gem, delivering smooth, linear acceleration with a satisfying growl. While I didn’t have the opportunity to test the new 300-horsepower 2.5-liter base engine, the performance of the V6 leaves little to be desired.

On the road, the G70 strikes an impressive balance between comfort and sport. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering excellent feedback that allows the driver to place the car with confidence.

The suspension is firm but not punishing, providing agile handling without sacrificing too much ride quality. It’s a setup that invites spirited driving while remaining livable for daily use.

Visually, the G70 continues to turn heads. The Kawah Blue paint on my tester is particularly striking, highlighting the sedan’s athletic proportions and elegant design cues. Genesis’ signature grille and quad headlights give the G70 a distinctive face that stands out in a crowded segment.

Clad in eye-catching Kawah Blue paint, the 2024 Genesis G70’s athletic proportions and distinctive design cues make it stand out visually.

Inside, the G70’s cabin impresses with its premium materials and thoughtful design. The quilted leather trim on the door panels of my tester adds a luxurious touch that wouldn’t be out of place in a car costing thousands more. All controls are ergonomically placed and intuitive to use, a testament to Genesis’ focus on user experience.

The new touch-type climate controls and frameless rearview mirror, standard for 2024, further enhance the cabin’s upscale feel. The infotainment system is responsive and easy to navigate, though the screen’s position atop the dash may not be to everyone’s taste.

One of the G70’s standout features is its value proposition. At $56,250 as tested, this fully loaded 3.3T model undercuts similarly equipped German rivals by a significant margin. Still, it doesn’t feel like a compromise, offering comparable — and in some cases superior — build quality, materials and features.

The Lexicon audio system deserves special mention, delivering crisp, powerful sound that music enthusiasts will appreciate. It’s just one example of how Genesis goes above and beyond to deliver a premium experience.

Premium materials, including quilted leather and a new frameless rearview mirror, elevate the G70’s cabin to a level that belies its relatively accessible price point.

However, the G70 isn’t without its compromises. Its firm ride and road noise levels, while appropriate for a sports sedan, may be too aggressive for buyers seeking a purely luxurious experience. Rear seat space is also tight compared to some competitors, a consequence of the G70’s compact dimensions.

Fuel economy, rated at 18 mpg in the city and 27 on the highway, is decent for a powerful V6 but falls short of more efficient four-cylinder rivals. Those seeking maximum efficiency might want to consider the new 2.5T engine option.

Ultimately, the G70 remains a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts who want luxury car amenities without sacrificing engagement. It offers the performance and handling to satisfy BMW cross-shoppers while delivering a level of luxury and value that sets it apart in the segment.

For buyers who prioritize driving dynamics and are willing to trade some comfort for a more visceral experience, the G70 hits a sweet spot. It’s a car that feels special every time you get behind the wheel, whether you’re carving up a back road or simply commuting to work.

The 2024 updates, while subtle, refine an already excellent package. They showcase Genesis’ commitment to continuous improvement and its ability to compete head-to-head with established luxury brands.

The G70 is no longer an upstart challenger. It’s a legitimate contender for the crown in the compact luxury sports sedan segment.

At A Glance

What was tested? 2024 Genesis G70 3.3T RWD ($49,950). Options: Sport prestige package ($4,400), premium paint ($650). Price as tested (including $1,250 destination charge): $56,250
Wheelbase: 111.6 in.
Length: 184.4 in.
Width: 72.8 in.
Height: 55.1 in.
Engine: 3.3-liter twin turbocharged V6 (365 hp, 376 ft.-lbs.)
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 18 city, 27 highway

Ratings

Style: 9
Performance: 9
Price: 7
Handling: 9
Ride: 6
Comfort: 7
Quality: 8
Overall: 8

Why buy it?

The 2024 Genesis G70 3.3T offers an intoxicating blend of performance, luxury, and value, delivering a premium sports sedan experience that rivals more expensive European competitors.

Posted in Genesis

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