2025 Nissan Frontier Is a Midsize Workhorse
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Nissan's small pickup might be one of the brand's most interesting machines that doesn't carry the GT-R badge. Once dubbed Hardbody, the small Nissan pickup has duked it out with giants in the small-to-midsize truck world for almost half a century. The latest iteration joined the Frontier's history books in 2022 as the D41-generation pickup. This truck replaced the long-running-if-not-old D22-generation rig, which ran from 2007 to 2021. This new truck significantly updated the Frontier, but it kept the 3.8-liter V6 mill that joined the platform in 2020. The 3.8-liter V6 is good for 310 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque. That power travels through a nine-speed automatic before hitting the rear axle, or the four-wheel-drive system. For '25, Nissan has also updated the interior with a larger infotainment screen, increased the towing capacity, and slightly revised the styling.
On this episode of Quick Spin, Autoweek executive editor Tom Murphy hops behind the wheel of the 2025 Nissan Frontier and puts it through its paces. Murphy takes you on a guided tour of the Frontier and highlights some of his favorite features and changes. Later, Murphy takes you along for a live drive review. Joining these segments, Murphy chats with host Wesley Wren about the 2025 Nissan Frontier, the competition, and the world of midsize trucks. Closing the show, the pair breaks down what makes the 2025 Nissan Frontier special.
Tune in below, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever podcasts are played.
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Car and Driver
a day ago
- Car and Driver
2026 Ford Mustang Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview While hybrid and electric people-movers are all the rage these days, the Mustang proves that American muscle is alive and well—in Ford's stable, at least. America's favorite pony continues to deliver on its 40-plus-year reputation as an affordable sports car in either fastback or convertible form. A 315-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder offers a more contemporary approach to tire-roasting, but a 480-hp 5.0-liter V-8 is still available for eight-cylinder loyalists who can't live without a baritone soundtrack. Both EcoBoost and GT models are potent enough steeds, but the 500-hp Dark Horse is the way to go if performance is a top priority. Regardless, the Mustang's tasteful blend of retro and modern touches is the perfect example of advancements not spoiling a timeless recipe. What's New for 2026? A new FX appearance package is now available on GT Premium models, paying homage to one of the Mustang's most iconic eras. The package celebrates the third-generation Fox-body 'stang, complete with callback exterior styling accents and a retro cabin redesign. A pair of new wheel designs are on offer as part of the kit; Performance-Package-equipped models get rad Oxford White wheels reminiscent of the fan-like shoes found on the old Mustang Cobra, while the remaining models get a revised version of the Mustang's existing 19-inch split-five-spoke wheels, also painted in white. The Oxford White theme continues with the badging, grille nostrils, and optional white-out taillights on Performance Package variants. Inside, the cabin features plaid perforated leather seat inserts, silver and blue contrast stitching, and carbon fiber trim from the Dark Horse. Independent of the FX package, a new aqua-ish Adriatic Blue Metallic paint option is available on all Mustang models, and the Orange Fury hue also returns after being discontinued in 2019. Ford says that the order books for the 2026 Mustang will open in late June. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Ford Mustang is expected to start around $34,000 and go up to $70,000 depending on the trim and options. EcoBoost $34,000 (est) EcoBoost Premium $40,000 (est) EcoBoost Convertible $42,000 (est) EcoBoost Premium Convertible $45,000 (est) GT $49,000 (est) GT Premium $53,000 (est) GT Premium Convertible $58,000 (est) Dark Horse $66,000 (est) Dark Horse Premium Coupe $70,000 (est) 0 $25k $50k $75k $100k $125k The turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost has nothing to be ashamed of performance-wise, but we're still at a point in time where a V-8 exists, and we recommend taking advantage of it— particularly with the six-speed manual in the GT coupe. Sure, it's $10k and change more than the four, but as it's said, buy experiences, not things; with the Mustang GT you get both. You can also add a GT Performance package for roughly $5000 extra. That gives you 19-inch wheels, big Brembo calipers, a 3.73-geared Torsen differential, as well as some sweet appearance bits. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The Mustang's base powertrain is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine rated at 315 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque mated exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It's a solid-performing setup, but the 5.0-liter V-8 is the heart of the Mustang. Rated for 480 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, it can send power through either the ten-speed automatic or, preferably, a six-speed manual. Ford says an optional performance exhaust increases output to 486 horsepower and 418 pound-feet. The Mustang Dark Horse is a track-focused step up from the GT that uses a 500-hp version of the 5.0-liter V-8. Essentially an evolution of the beloved Mach 1 of the previous generation, it has adaptive dampers and 19-inch Pirelli P Zero PZ4s, but gummy Pirelli Trofeo RS track-worthy tires are available via an optional handling package. Ford has improved the ride and handling balance with every generation, and the latest Mustang shows improvements across the board, including better steering feel and feedback. The Dark Horse's standard adaptive dampers go a long way to tame the brutality that is often part and parcel of performance vehicles wearing track-focused rubber. 0–60-MPH Times At our test track, a Mustang GT with the performance exhaust system ripped to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds; the EcoBoost wasn't too far behind, hitting 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. At 4.1 seconds, the Dark Horse only shaved one second off the GT's time, but it went on to cross the quarter-mile marker in 12.5 seconds at 115 mph. The Dark Horse did shine during our recent 0-to-150-to-0 speed test with a time of 29.7 seconds, beating a Toyota Supra 3.0. View Photos Ford Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released fuel economy information for the 2026 Mustang yet, but last year's four-cylinder model was good for up to 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. With the V-8, those estimates fell to 16 mpg city and 24 highway. On our 75-mph highway fuel economy route, a GT model with a six-speed manual returned 24 mpg; the Ecoboost model with the automatic transmission delivered 32 mpg. We'll update this section with 2026 EPA fuel economy estimates when they become available. For more information about the Mustang's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The Mustang's interior design is a mix of new and retro. We found the seats to be plenty supportive, and the standard 12.4-inch instrument cluster is a massive leap ahead of the previous car's. The configurable display can be customized to fit the needs of most red, white, and blue patriots, with selectable colors, gauges, and even a 'calm' screen that reveals only the most necessary details. If you're feeling nostalgic, the cluster can be configured to look similar to the 1987 Mustang's analog gauges—and a second analog throwback screen that takes its looks from the 1967 'Stang is available as an over-the-air update for all seventh-gen models. Ambient lighting and a driver's display adapt to whichever drive mode you've selected. Base Mustangs come with cloth seats and available micro-suede vinyl inserts, while the Premium level adds stitched bits and pieces from door trim to dashboard. Opting for the FX package on GT Premium models injects some extra retro flair, with plaid seat inserts and silver-and-blue contrast stitching. Ford has also introduced a Remote Rev function that allows the car's engine to blast up the RPMs with a simple click from the key fob while you admire the sounds from outside the car. View Photos Ford Infotainment and Connectivity An available 13.2-inch infotainment screen using Ford's Sync 4 software flows from the gauge cluster toward the center of the car behind a curved glass panel. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on this system, and an optional wireless smartphone charger helps drivers reduce the clutter of charging cables. Amazon Alexa and Ford Streaming allow voice commands to replace knob-turning or button presses, and every Mustang comes with Ford Power-Up software capability, allowing for over-the-air updates for later software and vehicle function improvements. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The Mustang is available with an impressive suite of driver-assistance technology named Ford Co-Pilot360. For more information about the Mustang's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard adaptive cruise control Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Available active pothole mitigation (included with Performance Pack) Warranty and Maintenance Coverage The Mustang has a solid but average warranty. However, unlike Chevy, Ford doesn't provide a complimentary scheduled maintenance visit. Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2024 Ford Mustang GT Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe PRICE Base/As Tested: $44,090/$62,425 ENGINE DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection Displacement: 307 in3, 5038 cm3 Power: 486 hp @ 7250 rpm Torque: 418 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm TRANSMISSION 6-speed manual CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 15.4-in vented disc/14.0-in vented disc Tires: Pirelli P Zero PZ4 F: 255/40R-19 96Y R: 275/40R-19 101Y DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 107.0 in Length: 189.4 in Width: 75.4 in Height: 55.0 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 55/30 ft3 Trunk Volume: 13 ft3 Curb Weight: 3947 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 4.2 sec 100 mph: 9.5 sec 1/4-Mile: 12.5 sec @ 114 mph 130 mph: 16.5 sec 150 mph: 23.5 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.0 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 10.0 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 9.0 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 155 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 153 ft Braking, 100–0 mph: 312 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.99 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 18 mpg 75-mph Highway Driving: 24 mpg 75-mph Highway Range: 380 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 17/14/23 mpg 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe PRICE Base/As Tested: $60,865/$73,205 ENGINE DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection Displacement: 307 in3, 5038 cm3 Power: 500 hp @ 7250 rpm Torque: 418 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm TRANSMISSION 6-speed manual CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 15.4-in vented disc/14.0-in vented disc Tires: Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS F: 305/30ZR-19 (98Y) R: 315/30ZR-19 (100Y) DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 107.0 in Length: 189.7 in Width: 75.5 in Height: 55.2 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 55/30 ft3 Trunk Volume: 13 ft3 Curb Weight: 3975 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 4.1 sec 100 mph: 9.7 sec 1/4-Mile: 12.5 sec @ 115 mph 130 mph: 16.4 sec 150 mph: 23.2 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.0 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 9.4 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 8.8 sec Top Speed (mfr's claim): 166 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 142 ft Braking, 100–0 mph: 278 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 1.07 g EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 17/14/22 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
USA Today
2 days ago
- USA Today
Toyota's EV evolution: Three new models are coming to redefine the brand
Toyota's EV evolution: Three new models are coming to redefine the brand Show Caption Hide Caption Self-driving tech coming to personally owned vehicles Waymo & Toyota have announced a partnership to co-develop autonomous vehicle platforms, aiming to integrate Waymo's self-driving technology into Toyota's POV's. Cheddar The vehicles are an overdue response to critics who said Toyota was hostile to electric vehicles. 3 new EVs are the Lexus ES, the Toyota bZ Woodland and the Toyota CH-R. Toyota showcased the upcoming vehicles in May at its North American HQ in Plano, Texas. Critics who believed Toyota would remain a perpetual EV laggard are about to be proven wrong. The world's largest automaker was slow to begin its deployment of electric vehicles, but it's a legendarily fast follower. Toyota measures twice and cuts once, and the cutting just began. Toyota and Lexus brands will make up for lost ground with three new EVs slated for sale in the United States this year and next ― Lexus ES, Toyota bZ Woodland and Toyota CH-R. That's on top of major upgrades to the pair it already sells here, the lackluster Toyota bZ4X, now badged the bZ, and Lexus RZ. What took them so long The vehicles are an overdue response to critics who said Toyota was hostile to electric vehicles. Company statements praising the hybrids it specialized in at the expense of EVs fostered that impression, even suggesting the two related and complementary technologies were somehow at odds. They're not, and the spin toward hybrids understandably infuriated environmental groups who had been among Toyota's biggest supporters as the automaker popularized the fuel-saving technology in the early 2000s. EV updates: Toyota's electric vehicle is about to get a major upgrade. Here's why it could use one It was dizzying to hear the automaker that rode the Prius to global leadership cast as an environmental villain. The disappointing 2023 bZ4X, Toyota's first mass-produced EV, fueled arguments that Toyota only talked a good environmental game. My recent drive of a 2026 bZ ― Toyota dropped the "4X" for model year 2026 ― proved Toyota took the criticism seriously, reworking its drivetrain and other systems with unusual haste. Toyota's seldom the first with a new technology. Its reputation for quality and durability rests on continually refining proven systems, not being first to market. It's unlikely Toyota's upcoming burst of EVs will break much new ground, but it'd be a shock if they don't work pretty much as advertised, first time and every time. Toyota's not an early adopter. The millions of people who buy its vehicles don't want it to be. Toyota's unprecedented EV rollout Toyota showcased the upcoming vehicles in May at its North American HQ in Plano, Texas. I drove the bZ there and expect to drive all of them, over the next few months. I'll report on them as it happens. Prices for all the vehicles will be announced closer to when sales begin. All should come with Tesla-style NACS charging ports. Until then, here's what we know by model: 2026 Toyota bZ Renamed and vastly improved from its predecessor ― the 2022-25 bZ4X ― this compact SUV now has competitive range and power. Key facts: On sale this fall Maximum range increases 25% to 314 miles Power increase more than 50% to 338 hp Faster New lights and body-color exterior trim salvage what had been a cluttered appearance 2026 bZ Woodland A midsize SUV developed alongside the nearly identical Subaru Trailseeker, the Woodland shares its architecture with the bZ, but is about is about 6 inches longer. We can hope it doesn't share the Subie's cloying slogan: Powered by love. Key facts: On sale early 2026 Standard all-wheel drive 375 hp Up to 260 miles range 8.3 inches of ground clearance 3,500-pound towing capacity 2026 Toyota CH-R The sporty little 2026 CH-R revives the name of an oddly styled little SUV, but graces it with looks reminiscent of the bigger Toyota Crown Signia hybrid. A compact, expect it to fit between the bZ and Woodland. With its arrival, the Toyota brand will have entries in three key vehicle segments. The new CH-R aims to be Toyota's first sporty EV, promising 0-60 mph in about 5 seconds. Key facts: On sale in 2026 338 hp 290-mile range 74.7 kWh battery 2026 Lexus RZ Lexus' first EV, the midsize RZ, gets updates in line with the bZ. A bigger battery increases range, new motors boost power, and charging speed improves. It will also be the first Lexus EV to have a model in the brand's performance sub-brand, F Sport. The RX 550e F Sport will reach 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Key facts: On sale this fall Up to 402 hp 300-mile range Bigger battery 'M Mode' mimics a manual transmission, via paddle shifters More shade from glass roof 2026 Lexus ES Lexus' popular midsize sedan gets the biggest changes in its history, moving to a new architecture that supports both EVs and hybrids. The car is longer, wider and taller than the current ES. The sleek ES is by far the brand's best looking sedan ever, embodying the Lexus theme: 'Experience elegance and electrified sedan.' The 2026 ES raises two immediate questions: Will there be a plug-in hybrid? Does the ES foreshadow an EV version of the next-generation Camry? Key facts: On sale in 2026 Front- and all-wheel drive 338 hp from ES 500e Up to 300-mile range 0-60 mph 5.4 seconds Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@ Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
Miami Herald
2 days ago
- Miami Herald
Shopping for a Honda Ridgeline? Here's What Experts Say You Should Look at Instead
When it comes to the mid-size truck category, the 2025 Honda Ridgeline is undoubtedly one of the best choices for drivers who want a truck but don't really need one. We say that because the Ridgeline looks like a truck and does everything a truck needs to do, but it drives more like a minivan. Its comfortable ride and refined driving dynamics make it a go-to choice for those who only use its truck features around five percent of the time. Let's face it, the other 95 percent of the time, those drivers are using their trucks for mundane tasks like driving to the grocery store, dropping the kids off at school, or other activities. In that case, the Ridgeline is perfect with its accommodating rear seat area, in-bed trunk, and clever storage options. The Honda Ridgeline is also very powerful with its 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. With that kind of power, the Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds and nearly 1,600 pounds of payload, which is on track with its rivals. However, for the truck lovers who want a little more off-road capability, at the expense of a smoother ride, there are better options in the class. Here are four other options that are worth checking out if the Honda Ridgeline is too soft. The 2025 Toyota Tacoma is easily one of the most popular trucks in the segment as well as the entire automotive market. Opting for the Tacoma will give buyers the same equipment found on the Honda Ridgeline, but in a rougher, tougher package. The Tacoma utilizes a body-on-frame architecture for added rigidity, which helps it navigate over rocky terrain while maintaining composure under normal driving conditions. Furthermore, the Tacoma underwent a makeover for the 2024 model year, which included a new look, more features, and updated powertrains. Instead of a V6, the Toyota Tacoma is now propelled by a standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and sends it to either the rear wheels or all four, depending on the configuration buyers choose. There is also an upgraded 278-horsepower i-Force hybrid variation for those seeking more power and fuel efficiency, as the upgraded engine is more fuel efficient than the V6 found in the Ridgeline (19 city/24 highway). With that kind of power, the Tacoma is able to tow up to 6,000 pounds and up to 1,680 pounds of payload. Inside, the Tacoma boasts seating for five and plenty of in-cabin tech, including an available 14-inch infotainment system that's connected to a JBL premium audio system, heated and ventilated seats, and plenty of safety features. The Tacoma also has many different trim levels to suit a variety of budgets, including a Trailhunter trim that comes well-equipped with plenty of off-road-ready features. Ultimately, it's a formidable competitor in the mid-size truck category and should not be overlooked. The 2025 Nissan Frontier is another rugged choice that can run circles around the Honda Ridgeline in an off-road setting. The Frontier strikes a good balance between off-road capability, comfort, and affordability. It's powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, which makes it more powerful than the Honda Ridgeline. The Frontier has also been updated for the 2025 model year with new exterior enhancements, like a new front bumper and grille, as well as new wheel choices on the PRO-X trim level and a new orange color. More importantly, the Frontier now comes with an optional 12.3-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and a new 360-degree camera system, which the Ridgeline doesn't have. It can also tow up to 7,150 pounds and has an available six-foot bed length, which is longer than the one in the Ridgeline as well. Lastly, the Nissan Frontier undercuts the Ridgeline in price by nearly $10,000 at every trim level, which makes it a stellar choice for truck lovers on a budget. The Ford Ranger poses a threat to the Honda Ridgeline with its compelling blend of performance, technology, and versatility. The Ranger offers a range of potent engine choices, which include a base 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 that makes 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter V6 that makes 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. With all that power, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds and carry up to 1,805 pounds of payload. Inside, the Ranger features a user-friendly cabin that boasts a range of advanced technologies, including a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, and wireless phone integration. It also has plenty of safety and driver-assist features to keep everyone safe and on the road. If all of those features aren't convincing enough, it's worth noting that the Ranger starts at around $33,000, which is much cheaper than the Honda Ridgeline, making it a great value at every trim level. The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado is a robust entry in the pickup truck segment because it excels in performance and technology. The Colorado is powered by a standard 2.7-liter TurboMax engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination allows the Colorado to tow up to a whopping 7,700 pounds. Power aside, the Chevrolet Colorado also has a tech-rich cabin that comes equipped with an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless phone integration, and an 11-inch digital gauge cluster to give the driver all the pertinent information. It also has plenty of safety features and comes in a number of trim levels, including the Trail Boss and ZR2 trim levels, which come with rugged off-road features like lifted suspensions, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. Pricing for the Colorado also starts at around $33,000, which is far less than the Ridgeline's $40,000 starting price. Although the 2025 Honda Ridgeline is undoubtedly a safe choice for truck buyers who need a truck but don't intend to do much truck-worthy things like rock crawling or advanced off-roading, there are more capable options in the market. Trucks like the Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Ford Ranger are all better equipped for towing, hauling, and off-roading, and they even cost less than Honda's pickup, Of course, this doesn't mean that buyers should completely cross the Ridgeline shopping list as it's still a good option and deserves a look for anyone that's in the market for a mid-size pickup truck. 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