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Car and Driver
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
Ford Recalls More Than 1 Million Vehicles with Backup Camera Issue
Ford is recalling more than one million vehicles over an issue with the center infotainment screen and rearview camera systems. The recall covers vehicles across the Ford and Lincoln lineups and includes cars from the 2021 through 2025 model years. Documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said the rearview cameras may fail to work, resulting in a frozen or dark infotainment screen while the vehicle is backing up. Ford announced a massive recall of 1,075,299 vehicles due to an issue that may freeze the center infotainment screen or display a black screen while backing up. The huge number of recalled vehicles spans a large swath of both Ford and Lincoln's lineups and covers several model years. Marc Urbano | Car and Driver The 2021–2024 Bronco, F-150, and Edge and the 2023–2024 Escape, Corsair, and F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, and F-600 trucks are all part of the recall, according to documents from NHTSA. Also involved: the 2022–2024 Expedition, 2022–2025 Transit, 2021–2023 Mach-E and Lincoln Nautilus, the 2024 Ranger and Mustang, and the 2022–2024 Navigator. Documents associated with the recall said that a software error within the Ford Sync infotainment system may lead to unexpected system resets. This may cause the screen to freeze or go blank, leading to frozen, delayed, or missing backup camera information. The documents show that there are no warning signs before the error occurs. Ford Documents associated with the recall show that Ford is aware of one minor crash related to the recall issue that resulted in property damage, though the automaker is not aware of any injuries related to the issue. To remedy the issue, owners will be asked to bring their vehicle to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software updated—though this update isn't available yet. When it becomes available, vehicles with over-the-air update capabilities can be fixed with an OTA update instead of requiring a trip to the dealer. Ford and Lincoln dealers have already been notified of the recall, and owners will receive notification letters starting June 16. Additional owner notification letters will be sent once a remedy is available, with NHTSA anticipating that to occur in the third quarter of this year. Jack Fitzgerald Associate News Editor Jack Fitzgerald's love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1. After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn't afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. Read full bio
Car and Driver
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
Honda Planning New Hybrid System for Large Vehicles Later This Decade
Honda announced a next-generation hybrid powertrain that will arrive in 2027, which is intended to be less expensive to produce. A specific hybrid setup is being designed for large vehicles in the North American market, with Honda targeting "powerful driving performance" and "high towing capability." Beginning in 2027, Honda will launch 13 new hybrids globally over four years. It's becoming a trend. Over the past several years, most automakers announced ambitious plans to convert most, if not all, of their lineups to electric power, typically with a deadline of around 2030. Now many automakers are backtracking on these plans, and Honda is the latest to declare a rethinking of its EV transition. In a press briefing in Japan today, Honda said it will launch a next-generation hybrid powertrain in 2027—including a specific system for large vehicles in the United States—and emphasized the importance of hybrids as it scales back its shift toward electric powertrains. Honda's EV goals hadn't been quite as bold as other brands, with the Japanese automaker originally aiming to have EVs represent 30 percent of its global sales by 2030. But even this mark is too high, the automaker now believes. Honda cites "uncertainty in the business environment" and "the slowdown in the expansion of the EV market," which it says has been caused by "changes in environmental regulations" and "changes in trade policies of various countries." Marc Urbano | Car and Driver The hybrid system in the 2025 Honda Civic. While EV adoption hasn't taken off at the rate Honda expected, the company is seeing strong demand for its current hybrid models and will invest even more in this segment. Honda plans to further hone its two-motor hybrid system, which will be paired with a next-generation platform that will focus on reducing weight and a new all-wheel-drive electric drive unit that will feature "highly precise and responsive motor control." Honda aims for these advancements to lead to 10 percent better fuel economy than its current hybrid system. Specifically, Honda says that the North American market will get a new hybrid system meant for larger vehicles, which Honda says will provide "powerful driving performance, high towing capability, and high environmental performance." Honda says this will be fitted to products that show up in the latter portion of this decade, and we think a next-generation Pilot seems like a likely choice. Starting in 2027, Honda plans to launch 13 next-generation hybrid models globally over four years, and these new hybrids will wear the simplified "H mark" logo that was originally intended for Honda's EVs. The H Mark Honda Reveals a New 'H' Logo for EVs Honda also wants to make its hybrids less expensive, with a goal to cut the cost of its next-generation system by over 50 percent versus the system it launched in 2018 and by over 30 percent compared to the system that arrived in its cars in 2023. An expected increase in hybrid sales volume will contribute to this cost reduction, Honda says, as will more efficient production processes and the use of more common parts across models. Honda Honda still plans to launch the radical 0 Saloon EV in 2026. Honda also reemphasized its plans for a new advanced driver-assistance system that will be able to handle operations like acceleration and steering during an entire drive route, including both highways and surface roads. Honda says this new system will arrive in both EVs and hybrids in North America and Japan starting around 2027. Caleb Miller Associate News Editor Caleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan.
Car and Driver
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview Kia offers this hybrid version of its Carnival minivan alongside a gas-only van powered by a V-6. Although the Carnival Hybrid is slightly down on power compared to the V-6 model, it's able to accelerate just as quickly and doesn't feel lacking for oomph on the road. Your reward for buying the slightly more expensive hybrid version is improved fuel efficiency—we saw 29 mpg with the hybrid in our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, compared to 28 with the V-6. The Carnival Hybrid goes up against Toyota's all-hybrid Sienna lineup as well as the plug-in hybrid version of the Chrysler Pacifica. The Carnival siblings remain among our favorites in a strong crop of minivans. What's New for 2026? A year after its introduction, there are no major changes to the Carnival Hybrid. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid is expected to start around $43,000 and go up to $55,000 depending on the trim and options. LXS $43,000 (est) EX $45,000 (est) SX $50,000 (est) SX Prestige $55,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k $70k $80k $90k The Carnival Hybrid is offered in four trims, starting with the entry-level LXS and topping out at the loaded SX Prestige. We think the EX represents the best value because it comes with extra features, including a power tailgate, a wireless smartphone charger, a larger infotainment touchscreen, and 19-inch wheels. Engine, Transmission, and Performance All Carnival Hybrids come with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that's augmented by a 72-hp electric motor to drive the front wheels. This combination amounts to 242 horsepower, which is slightly less than the nonhybrid Carnival's 287-hp V-6 engine provides. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. In our test drive, we found the Carnival Hybrid to be as powerful, refined, and pleasant to drive as the standard model. The ride is smooth, the cabin is quiet, and handling is secure. The hybrid has different settings for the regenerative braking system that can slow the car at varying levels when you lift off the brake. But we found that, on downhill stretches, selecting the higher levels fill the battery, causing the regeneration to shut off. 0–60-MPH Times In our testing, the Carnival Hybrid got to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, tying the 2025 Carnival V-6 nonhybrid we tested. View Exterior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA rates the Carnival Hybrid at 33 mpg combined, 34 mpg city, and 31 mpg highway, a significant boost over the nonhybrid model. In our real-world 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, the Carnival Hybrid achieved 29 mpg, slightly below its official rating. For more information about the Carnival Hybrid's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The Carnival Hybrid's dashboard and front-seat area are both modern and accommodating. A large center console offers plenty of small-item storage, while an optional dual-screen infotainment system with a digital gauge display gives you easy access to the van's connectivity features. The upscale SX Prestige trim comes with leather upholstery and can be ordered with reclining second-row seats that have pop-up footrests. While these provide a relaxing way for passengers to while away the hours on a long road trip, they cannot be removed or stowed in the floor as in rival minivans, which limits the Carnival's maximum cargo space and versatility. A panoramic sunroof is optional and provides a large opening over the second row so the kids can get some fresh air. In our testing, we fit 14 carry-on suitcases behind the third row of seats and a whopping 48 in total with all seats folded. That's a ton of cargo space, but it should be noted that both the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and Honda Odyssey proved slightly more spacious. View Interior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity While a single 8.0-inch infotainment screen is standard, dual 12.3-inch displays that stretch across two-thirds of the Carnival Hybrid's dashboard are optional, with one serving as a digital gauge display and the other performing infotainment duties. A voice assistant is integrated into the infotainment software and occupants can verbally ask the car to perform tasks such as opening a window, adjusting the climate control, or navigating to a destination. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard. Seven USB ports dot the Carnival's cabin; two other power outlets are also included. A rear-seat entertainment system is optional starting on the SX trim and features two 14.6-inch displays that provide access to streaming services. The system is Bluetooth-enabled for headphones, so the kids can watch Bluey and Paw Patrol while you drive in peace. A 12-speaker Bose stereo is available but limited to the top-spec SX Prestige trim. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Kia offers many standard driver-assistance features, including lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, and blind-spot monitoring, all of which help the Carnival compete with the Pacifica Hybrid, the Sienna Hybrid, and the Honda Odyssey. For more information about the Carnival's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Kia's warranty trumps its rivals', with a powertrain policy that spans 10 years or 100,000 miles. Unlike the Sienna, though, the Carnival Hybrid doesn't come with any complimentary scheduled maintenance. Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-motor, front-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door van PRICE Base/As Tested: $53,995/$56,760 Options: Rear Seat Entertainment package, $2500; carpeted floor mats, $265; SX Prestige Seat package, $0 POWERTRAIN turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 1.6-liter inline-4, 178 hp, 195 lb-ft + AC motor, 74 hp, 224 lb-ft (combined output: 242 hp, 271 lb-ft); 1.2-kWh (C/D est) lithium-ion battery pack Transmission: 6-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 12.8-in vented disc/12.8-in disc Tires: Continental CrossContact RX 235/55R-19 105H M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 121.7 in Length: 203.0 in Width: 78.5 in Height: 69.9 in Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 61/56/43 ft3 Cargo Volume, behind F/M/R: –/87/40 ft3 Curb Weight: 4985 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 7.8 sec 1/4-Mile: 16.1 sec @ 87 mph 100 mph: 25.0 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 9.3 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 4.7 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 6.0 sec Top Speed (C/D est): 115 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 180 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.80 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 29 mpg 75-mph Highway Driving: 29 mpg 75-mph Highway Range: 550 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 33/34/31 mpg More Features and Specs
Car and Driver
14-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
Brake Recall Affects 274K Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators
The Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator (2022 to 2024 models) are being recalled due to a potential brake issue. The full-size SUVs' front brake lines can become damaged, leak brake fluid, and then cause the front brakes to not work properly. The recall affects 273,789 models, which Ford says will need to be inspected and possibly repaired by a dealer. Ford is issuing another brake-related recall that once again affects the Expedition full-size SUV as well as its more luxurious counterpart, the Lincoln Navigator. Unlike last month's recall, which involved 2017–2018 models, the latest one affects newer 2022–2024 models. In total, Ford is recalling nearly 274K units, including 223,315 Expeditions and 50,474 Navigators, though only 1 percent of that population is expected to have the defect. Marc Urbano | Car and Driver The recall stems from an issue with the SUVs' front brake lines, which can contact a part of the engine air cleaner and become damaged. That can lead to leaking brake fluid and reduced brake function, which would increase the risk of a crash. That's according to a recall report that Ford filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on May 9. In the previous recall, a potential brake-fluid leak was the result of a faulty master cylinder. Ford is telling Expedition and Lincoln Navigator owners involved in the recall to take their vehicles to a dealer to be inspected. If the brake line or air-cleaner outlet pipe needs to be replaced, it will be covered free of charge. Ford says dealers are expected to be notified by today, and owners are expected to be notified by May 30. Eric Stafford Managing Editor, News Eric Stafford's automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a journalism degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual '97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a '90 Honda CRX Si. Read full bio
Car and Driver
11-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
What Kind of Maintenance Does an Electric Car Need?
In general, battery-electric cars need less lifetime maintenance than gasoline ones. The battery, electric motor(s), and power electronics rarely need service at all. Items shared with gasoline cars need the same amount of maintenance. Conventional wisdom has it that the only items you need to service on an electric car are the tires, wiper blades, and cabin air filters. It's not far from the truth: In general, an EV does need less regular maintenance over the course of its life than an equivalent gasoline car. There's no engine oil or transmission fluid to monitor. Most EVs don't even have transmissions. Like any car, EVs do need windshield washer fluid. They also need brake fluid. But overall, their brake components last far longer because regenerative braking takes over a lot of that task. Do electric cars cost more or less to service than regular cars? Over their lifetime, EVs usually cost less to service. For instance, Ford says maintenance costs for its F-150 Lightning electric pickup over 100,000 miles or eight years are 40 percent lower than the cost of regular service and parts for a gasoline F-150. Do I need to replace the battery? Do the electric motors need regular servicing? Do the brakes on an electric car need regular servicing? Marc Urbano | Car and Driver 2024 BMW i4. What parts of an electric car need regular servicing? How often do you have to replace the tires on an EV? Car and Driver 2025 GMC Hummer EV. John Voelcker Contributing Editor John Voelcker edited Green Car Reports for nine years, publishing more than 12,000 articles on hybrids, electric cars, and other low- and zero-emission vehicles and the energy ecosystem around them. He now covers advanced auto technologies and energy policy as a reporter and analyst. His work has appeared in print, online, and radio outlets that include Wired, Popular Science, Tech Review, IEEE Spectrum, and NPR's "All Things Considered." He splits his time between the Catskill Mountains and New York City and still has hopes of one day becoming an international man of mystery. Read full bio
