Tag Archives: 2022

Fiat Introduces Colorful Options, Drops Gray Cars

In 2022, more than 65 percent of new cars sold in the United States were white, black, or gray. Gray cars, in particular, accounted for just over 18 percent of total sales. However, Fiat is not impressed by these statistics. The Italian automaker has decided to stop producing gray cars and instead focus on offering more vibrant color choices.

Fiat’s current model range in the European market, including the 500, 500 Hybrid, Panda, and Tipo, already comes in a diverse array of shades. Some of the available colors are Gelato white, Sicilia orange, Paprika orange, Passione red, Blu Dipinto di Blu, Italia blue, Venezia blue, Rugiada green, Foresta green, Rose gold, and Cinema black. And now, Fiat is planning to add a new color option to its palette.

BMW iX5 Hydrogen: Everything You Need To Know

BMW unveiled the hydrogen-powered iX5 in 2022, as part of its commitment to sustainable mobility. BMW joins other companies like Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai in exploring the potential of hydrogen-cell-powered vehicles. The BMW iX5 is an SUV that offers fast and efficient performance without the need for lengthy battery charging. Refueling is done at hydrogen stations, similar to traditional gasoline vehicles. BMW is preparing for a future where hydrogen-cell-powered vehicles may become dominant, and they are currently hand-building 100 test versions of the iX5 at their Munich factory.

Related: Automakers Deeply Invested In Hydrogen-powered Cars

The BMW iX5 Makes Nearly 400 Horses

White BMW iX5 Hydrogen
BMW
Rear shot of BMW iX5 Hydrogen on a test drive in the freezing temperatures of northern Sweden

The BMW iX5 combines fifth-generation fuel cell technology with an electric motor, making 395 horsepower and 524 pound-feet of torque. This SUV can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds. It offers an impressive 313-mile range according to the European cycle, or about 250 miles as per the stricter EPA ratings. The iX5 can be refueled in just three to four minutes, similar to a traditional gasoline vehicle. These features make fuel cell technology a promising option that offers both power and range. The iX5 is currently undergoing testing in harsh winter conditions in northern Sweden, demonstrating its safety and performance in low temperatures.

Related: Hydrogen Electric Vehicles: The Next Big Thing In The Automotive Industry?

It Is An X5 With A Different Heart

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen's interior
BMW
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen’s interior

The BMW iX5 is based on the X5 model. It features the iconic kidney grill with a blue accent and a closed-off design for improved aerodynamics. The SUV is equipped with sleek headlights, big intakes, and aerodynamic 22-inch wheels with blue accents. The flared arches give it a sporty look, and it has ‘BMW I Hydrogen Fuel Cells’ stickers to distinguish it from the regular X5. The iX5 also has frameless doors, flush door handles, and an aggressive rear design. The interior follows a blue accent theme on the dashboard, gear lever, and door panels, creating a luxurious and well-designed cabin. It features two screens for the driver and infotainment, and it is expected to offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Related: 10 Reasons To Get Excited About Hydrogen Electric Vehicles

The Promise Of Hydrogen Fuel Cells

BMW iX5 Hydrogen in white
BMW
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen getting refueled

Hydrogen fuel cell technology offers several advantages over electric and gasoline-powered vehicles. It provides a long-range, quick refueling times, and emits only water vapor as a byproduct. However, there are challenges related to hydrogen fueling infrastructure and the cost of obtaining hydrogen. Despite these challenges, the ongoing investment in hydrogen fuel cell technology suggests that it has the potential to become a viable and accessible option in the future. Just like electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell technology may overcome its limitations with further advancements and become a promising solution for carbon-neutral transportation. BMW’s rigorous winter testing and research efforts demonstrate their commitment to being a market leader in fuel cell technology when it becomes more widely available.

The Controversial Tech Behind The Missing Titanic Submersible

CBS reporter David Pogue was part of a Titan crew in 2022, during which he revealed some concerning details about the design of the submersible vessel. Pogue mentioned that the vessel was operated using a modified Logitech F710 wireless game controller, with custom sticks replacing the direction joysticks for improved navigation.

There is a comparison to be made with the U.S. Navy’s use of Xbox 360 controllers for its submarines. However, there is an important distinction: the Navy utilizes the controller to operate periscopes, not for maneuvering the submarine itself. Furthermore, the Logitech F710 is an inexpensive controller that was first introduced over a decade ago. Given the gravity of the situation, it seems peculiar to rely on such an old and economical controller for such a critical task.

Additionally, the submersible reportedly only has a single button inside for turning it on, with the rest of the control systems relying on computers and digital displays. This is similar to the trend in modern cars, where buttons and dials are being replaced by touch screens. While this design was intended to make operating the submersible easier, it could become problematic if the vessel loses all electrical power, especially since it relies on Starlink for communications.

Bentley Batur Completes Development, Gears Up For Production Start

The Bentley Batur, which made its debut in August 2022, has finished its on-road development phase. The British luxury brand can now begin production of 18 models for its customers.

Prior to the production phase, Bentley conducted extensive testing with two pre-production Baturs. These vehicles underwent real-world testing, covering a total of 18,641 miles, and were evaluated for a combined period of 58 weeks. Car Zero, one of the pre-production models, featured a lively Purple Sector body with a Gloss Dark Titanium grille adorned with Black Crystal elements. As for Car Zero-Zero, it sported a Marina Teal body and was specifically utilized for development in Europe and high-speed driving on closed circuits.

15 Most Reliable American Cars According To Consumer Reports

2022 was an excellent year for the automotive industry. It saw new leaps and bounds for electric and hybrid cars. Some cars had new tech like wireless charging, voice activation, and even air purification systems. And while 2022 was great for new features, the year was not so kind to American car manufacturers. 2022 Consumer Reports had mostly Asian manufacturers in the top spots (Think, Toyota, Honda, and Mazda). Only Lincoln made the top 10, with Buick in the 11th spot.

But just because a car didn’t make it in the top 10 doesn’t mean that it’s not reliable. New technology can be the culprit for a car not being on the list, not necessarily mechanical maladies. So if you’re worrying that your car isn’t in the top 10, don’t fret. There are still many things to love about American cars.

Here are the most reliable American vehicles, according to Consumer Reports.

Updated on June 14, 2023: Since 2022 is gone and half of 2023 has been swept under the rug, we have decided to refresh and update this list of reliable American cars. The original 2022 models have been left, so you know what vehicle to look for in a slightly used car. However, we have added some of the top 2023 American models to give you some extra choices.

Related: Most Reliable Car Brands in 2022

15 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee: 63/100

A parked 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Hybrid
Jeep/Stellantis
Three-quarters shot of a 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Hybrid charging

Jeep has never really been high on reliability lists. In 2022, they ranked 23 out of 24 car manufacturers, almost putting them dead last. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the highest on Jeep’s list of reliable cars. The Jeep Grand Cherokee 2022 has been redesigned with better fuel economy, a more luxurious cabin, and more refinement. This car is a great midsize SUV that is predicted to last a long time, but you might be better off with some of its other competitors, such as KIA, Hyundai, or Honda, given Jeep’s overall reliability record.

14 2022 GMC Yukon: 73/100

A driving 2022 GMC Yukon Denali
GMC
Front and side view of a 2022 GMC Yukon Denali

Placing just two spots above Jeep at 21 out of 24 car manufacturers is GMC. GMC is another one of those companies with average reliability over the years, but the 2022 GMC Yukon is one of GMC’s more reliable cars. This three-row SUV is quiet, comfy, and has excellent towing capacity (7,500 – 7,900 pounds). The newly redesigned independent rear suspension offers a smoother ride and better handling. When maintained, it is predicted to last 200,000 to 250,000 miles, making it a decent choice if you’re looking to buy a new SUV or if you need something to haul your boat and motorcycle around.

13 2022 Tesla Model Y: 73/100

2022 Tesla Model Y
Tesla
A front 3/4 outdoor shot of a 2022 Tesla Model Y

Tesla has always been at the cutting edge when it comes to new technology in its cars, but they are the relatively new kid on the block and have some things to figure out. The 2022 Tesla Model Y is no exception to this rule. Tesla came in at 19 out of 24 manufacturers, which isn’t the best. Most of the problems come from paint, weatherstripping, rear-hatchback, and its climate system. Many people who buy these cars are thrilled with them, but you can expect to pay more in overall maintenance costs due to new technology. Overall, it is one of the few fully electric vehicles on the market right now, and that alone can save you money in the long term.

Related: Tesla Reliability and Repair Costs – The True Story

12 2022 Ram 1500: 75/100

A parked 2022 Ram 1500 Longhorn Limited
Ram Pressroom
Front and side view of a 2022 Ram 1500 Longhorn Limited

Placing much higher on Consumer Reports’ list is the 2022 Ram 1500. Ram placed at 16 out of 24 manufacturers, making it a more reliable option than the GMC Yukon. And obviously, this is a truck on a list of cars, but the high-ranking American cars are slim on Consumer Reports lists, so we elected to include it. The 2022 Ram 1500 dropped pounds to improve fuel economy and add more passenger room. It can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles depending on your use. And with an average annual repair cost of $691, it won’t break the bank for quite some time.

11 2022 Ford Maverick 78/100

Light Blue 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid-front
Ford
Front three-quarter shot of a light blue 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid speeding in a free highway

Ah, yes, another truck on our list of cars. Unfortunately, the highest-ranking car on Consumer Reports for Ford was a truck. Go figure. Ford ranked 18 out of 24 car manufacturers, putting two spots below RAM. These trucks can last for up to 14 years and 200,000 miles, making them a good choice if you want a truck that will last a long time and has a lot of power. It even has a hybrid option that gives it decent MPG at 42 in the city and 33 on the highway. Outscoring every pickup in its class, the 2022 Ford Maverick is a small truck that can be bought on a budget and can withstand time for years to come.

10 Cadillac XT5 2022: 79/100

Cadillac ranked in between Ram and Ford at 17 out of 24 manufacturers. With a nice mix of luxury and reliability, the 2022 Cadillac XT5 is at the top of Cadillac’s most reliable cars for the year. Consumer Reports placed it in its top 10 most reliable cars of the year, with a reliability rating of 89 out of 100. And while it doesn’t have the same appeal or drivability as one of Cadillac’s sedans, it is still a sleeper in terms of comfort and reliability. You won’t get Mercedes-level luxury, but you’ll get a pretty standard SUV that will last you for years to come with proper care and maintenance.

Related: 10 Most Unreliable SUVs Of 2022

9 2022 Chevrolet Traverse: 82/100

Chevrolet Traverse
Chevrolet
A front 3/4 action shot of a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse

Chevy ranked 20 out of 24 car manufacturers, according to Consumer Reports. The most reliable car out of Chevy’s lineup is the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse. It is a three-row crossover that gives the Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot a run for their money. Consumer Reports gave it a reliability rating of 82 out of 100, making it one of the more reliable cars on this list. It is predicted to last 12 to 17 years and upwards of 200,000 miles. On the road, the 2022 Chevy Traverse offers a smooth ride that you won’t complain about but won’t brag about, either.

8 2022 Chrysler 300: 83/100

A parked Chrysler 300s
Chrysler
Side view of a Chrysler 300s

Chrysler wasn’t included in 2022’s Consumer Reports since it was acquired by Stellantis in 2021, so we’ll take its 2021 information and see where it ranks. In 2021, Chrysler ranked 12 out of 28 manufacturers. That makes Chrysler, in general, pretty reliable. And one of the most reliable Chrysler cars is the 2022 Chrysler 300. Chrysler’s flagship luxury sedan offers plenty of room and comfort for your average buyer. Reports state that the 2022 Chrysler 300 can last up to 200,000 with minimal repairs needed. This makes it a great choice if you’re looking for luxury and reliability.

7 2022 Buick Encore: 84/100

2022 Buick Encore GX white
Buick 
2022 Buick Encore GX parked in front of a building 

Coming in at the second-highest spot on the list is Buick. Buick ranked 11 out of 24 manufacturers for 2022. And coming in as one of Buick’s most reliable cars is the 2022 Buick Encore. The 2022 Buick Encore is a subcompact SUV that is a size smaller than the Toyota RAV4 or the Honda CR-V. The 2022 Buick Encore is expected to reach 200,000 miles with regular maintenance and is predicted to be reliable for many years. This car is meant to blend luxury with a small carbon footprint. This car is perfect for a small SUV that is easy on gas and the eyes.

Related: 10 Most Reliable SUVs According To Consumer Reports

6 2022 Lincoln Corsair: 87/100

A parked 2022 Lincoln Corsair
Lincoln
Front and side view of a 2022 Lincoln Corsair

The 2022 Lincoln Corsair came in at 10 out of 24 manufacturers, with a reliability rating of 87 out of 100. The Corsair has plenty of standard features, a silky smooth ride, and a base 250 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with upgradable options for more power. This is a luxury vehicle, though, which means it comes with new technology that could be prone to breaking down. With a predicted 10-year price of $11,000 in regular maintenance fees, this car could put you back more than others on this list. Either way, if you bought one, it could be a solid choice.

5 2023 Chrysler 300: 77/100

2023 Chrysler 300s rear
Chrysler
Shot of the 2023 Chrysler 300s’ rear

The 2023 Chrysler 300 has been improved upon from the previous years (maybe not as much as the 2021 model), giving it the top place for an American car on the list of large cars, ranking number 2/4 overall. The 300 has long been one of those luxury cars that families across the nation have gone to for cross-country trips, which they still do, but with the addition of the smaller 3.6-liter V-6, it is now a very reliable in-town daily driver. One that will not break the bank when it comes to guzzling fuel.

4 2023 Tesla Model S: 78/100

Tesla Model S
Tesla
Three-quarter view of the Tesla Model S

Based upon the statistics over the last couple of years, ranking number 4 out of 15 in the luxury compact car segment is a good feat for an American car. Tesla is a company that has grown to success within a couple of years and will continue to grow as long as they offer reliable and safe models. The 2023 Tesla Model S features an electric motor for the front axle, and one for the back, to help accelerate the car from 0 to 60 in under two and a half seconds. The best part; the Tesla Model S has a range of up to 405 miles on a single charge.

Related: 10 Most Unreliable Pickup Trucks

3 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid: 80/100

A Yellow Ford Maverick
Ford
A yellow Ford Maverick being driven on a country road

It seems like the same models are repeatedly on the list printed out by Consumer Reports every year unless there has been a significant facelift. The 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid shows this by again appearing as the number one American small pickup in overall score ratings by Consumer Reports. The Hybrid Maverick Hybrid came in number 1 out of 12 in the compact truck segment, featuring a 2.5-liter engine combined with an electric motor to create a front-wheel-drive truck that produces up to 191 horsepower.

2 2023 Lincoln Corsair: 84/100

White 2023 Lincoln Corsair
Lincoln
Front 3/4 view of a white 2023 Lincoln Corsair

The 2023 Lincoln Corsair is not as common as the Lincoln Aviator or Navigator, but the data shows that it is a much better buy if you can handle having a compact SUV because it was able to gain a ranking of 5 out of 37. The Corsair has a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine or a plug-in hybrid with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional for an added cost.

1 2023 C8 Chevrolet Corvette: 87/100

Red 2023 Chevrolet Corvette 3LT Convertible
Mecum Auctions
A front 3/4 outdoor shot of a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette 3LT Convertible

Not much can be said about the Chevrolet Corvette that you do not already know. If you don’t, you have some significant reading to do. The one thing that may not be common knowledge is that out of all the American vehicles on the market, the Corvette has one of the best overall rankings from the people at Consumer Reports. The C8 also topped the list for the most satisfying car of the year. It received an overall ranking of 87 out of 100, achieving number 1 out of 24 sports cars that they tested. So, what could possibly be better than a fire-breathing sports car that can shoot 0 to 60 in under 3.0 seconds while still giving you the ride expected out of a top-notch sports car?

New Hybrid Version of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe Spotted During Testing

Back in January of 2022, Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe was spotted by our spies for the first time. Now, 18 months later, we still have yet to see the final production version. However, some new spy shots have emerged of a plug-in hybrid prototype, spotted by Spanish publication Motor.es. The tell-tale sign is the yellow stickers, indicating the presence of a PHEV.

The charging port cap on the rear bumper also confirms that this sports car is an electrified vehicle. Other notable features include 20-inch wheels with Pirelli tires measuring 295/35 ZR20, and carbon-ceramic brakes, recognizable from their gold calipers. The car’s recognizable Panamericana grille is flanked by various air intakes, hinting that this is probably a high-end model in the lineup.

BAC Expands US Operations, Brings Bespoke Program Closer To Customers

BAC, the Briggs Automotive Company, ended 2022 by building its 150th Mono and expanding its retail network around the world. This year, the company will continue to grow, with the bespoke manufacturer expanding its dealer network with three new locations across the US.

The three new dealerships will be Philadelphia, Greenwich, and Newport Beach. BAC partnered with RDS Automotive Group to operate the facilities, including servicing and aftersales. The expansion will make it easier for customers to access the BAC Bespoke process, a customization program offered for the Mono.

TOTAL COST OF POTHOLE COMPENSATION COULD HAVE FILLED AN ADDITIONAL 340,000 POTHOLES LAST YEAR, FINDS CITROËN UK REPORT

  • Exclusive Citroën UK research reveals damage compensation paid to road users in 2022 could have filled an additional 340,000* potholes.
  • More than £22.7 million** was paid out in damage compensation last year.
  • Total compensation payments since 2017 could have filled more than 2.3m potholes***.
  • Since 2017, more than 1,100 people have been injured on roads in England and Wales, 355 ‘seriously’ and 16 ‘fatally’, due to a ‘defective road surface’.
  • Average lifespan of a UK road now stands at 116 years‡‡.
  • From 1 May – 30 June, Citroën UK is offering a Free Pothole Damage Inspection for Citroën owners, which covers damage caused to wheels, suspension, and tyres.

Go to: FREE Pothole Damage Inspection (citroen.co.uk)

 

Compensation payments made by local authorities in England and Wales, to road users who suffered damage to their cars due to poor road surfaces, could have paid for an additional 340,000 potholes to be filled in, according to exclusive research by Citroën UK.

 

Comparing Department for Transport as well as Asphalt Industry Alliance figures, Citroën found that in the last year, local authorities in England and Wales spent a total of £93.7m fixing over 1.4m potholes, at an average cost of £66.93 per repair‡‡. Over the same timeframe, total compensation claims of £22.7m were paid out to road users. These costs are made up of payouts equaling £11.6m, and staffing costs spent handling claims of £11.1m. The money used on compensation claims could have filled in an additional 340,000 potholes.

 

Since 2017, a total of £139.9m has been spent on damage compensation, which could have filled an additional 2.3m potholes. At the same time, between 2017 and 2021 (the most recent data available), police forces in England and Wales recorded 1,114 accidents on the roads that resulted in injury due to a ‘defective road surface’, with 355 people ‘seriously injured’ and 16 killed. Serious injuries are classed as those that require hospitalisation as an in-patient, including fractures, severe cuts, burns and internal injuries ††.

 

The research found a worsening picture on Britain’s roads. The frequency roads being resurfaced, on average, is now every 116 years, up 46 years from a lifespan of 70 years estimated in 2022. The average cost of filling a pothole rose to £66.93 in the latest data set, up from £63.18 the year before, and 300,000 fewer potholes were filled in compared the previous year. The one-time catch-up cost (the total cost of repairing roads back to a condition when the network can be managed cost effectively), now stands at £14.2bn – up from £12.64bn in 2022‡‡. In 2017, the one-time catch-up cost stood at £12.6bn – it dropped to £9.3bn in 2018, before gradually rising in the years since.

 

As part of its commitment to safety, driver well-being, comfort, and serenity, Citroën is offering a Free Pothole Damage Inspection for Citroën owners, including checks for damage caused to wheels, suspension, and tyres. The offer is available until 30 June at participating retailers.

 

The Free Pothole Damage Inspection includes checks on areas most commonly affected by poor road surfaces. Tyres are checked for damage, bulges, cuts, and tread depth. Wheels are checked for cracks and damage too. Key suspension components, such as coil springs and ball joints are also inspected. Retailers will also check tyre pressures and adjust these back to the recommended levels as part of the process. Where possible, retailers will also offer wheel alignment – at an additional cost.  

 

Many Citroën models – such as New C5 X – benefit from Citroën’s Advanced Comfort® Programme, with enhanced suspension and supportive seating for a smoother ride. All versions of New C5 X feature Citroën’s Progressive Hydraulic Cushion® technology, which integrates hydraulic bump stops into the suspension system to better control compression and rebound on damaged surfaces.

 

Inside, New C5 X comes as standard with Advanced Comfort® seats. With broad cushions and seat backs, they combine high-density foam at the heart of each seat, and a thick 15mm layer of extra textured foam on the surface, to keep occupants comfortable and relaxed when on the road.

 

Greg Taylor, Managing Director of Citroën UK, said: “The 2023 ALARM report shows that the UK faces an 11-year and £14.2-billion backlog of road repairs. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that millions are spent each year on damage compensation for motorists. To help drivers avoid the worst of pothole damage, Citroën is glad to offer a Free Pothole Damage Inspection at participating retailers from 1 May – 30 June.”