Chevy’s Equinox is one of the most popular crossovers in class. For 2025 it gets a major overhaul with a new rugged approach to design. Simply put, it’s a sizable improvement over the outgoing generation. Tom Voelk checks out a lightly optioned all-wheel drive ACTIV version with it’s General Grabber all-terrain tires and finds it doesn’t take a lot of extras to make it a solid competitor. And yes it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto    

Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N is brilliant on the race track. Does that mean a punishing and high-strung dynamic during everyday driving? Maybe not. Tom Voelk snags one for a week to see if the range, charge speed and utility are ready for family hauling when not chewing up a raceway. This is after all, on Tom’s short list of cars to buy.

Here’s my Top 11 List for 2024 folks, the cars, trucks and SUVs that I feel offer value, design, utility and innovation. It’s hard to narrow down, competition is fierce. But here ya go. Happy New Year! It’s going to be interesting…

Like the first-generation Hyundai Kona, gen two is available with gas and all-electric powertrains. Bigger, roomier, more refined and quicker to charge now, Kona Electric should be more appealing to more buyers. Make sure you buy the right model though since the SE’s battery and motor are different. Tom checks out a loaded $42,440 Limited model at an event in Monterey, CA. He figures the sweet spot is the SEL that retails for some four grand less.

Tom attended a Hyundai event for this review and spent limited time with the Kona Electric. He opinions remain his own.

Premium vehicles are all about sophistication. It’s a good argument for the BMW i5, a fully electric 5 Series. Packed with tech, refinement and a dollop of Ultimate Driving Machine dynamics, electrification might be the best way to experience the 5 Series (though ICE and PHEV version are available). People admiring the design may be oblivious it’s missing a gas powertrain. It’s just that subtle. And no trips to the gas station. Tom Voelk checks out a rear-wheel drive eDrive40 model.

Want enthusiast grade driving dynamics at a reasonable price? Hyundai offers bang-for-the-buck with the Elantra N. Upgraded for 2024, there are some real changes that make it a better car, things like improved brakes and forged aluminum alloy wheels. And at just under $35,000 it’s fully loaded with grippy sport seats, adjustable suspension and Bose sound. And yes, there’s a 6-speed manual. Tom Voelk checks it out on an autocross course at WeatherTech Laguna Seca.

Tom attended a Hyundai sponsored even for the review. Opinions are his own. Accuracy is important.

Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N is equipped with N Drift Optimizer. In the hands of N Brand Vice President JooN Park, the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 tires are shown no mercy. Watch as he obliterates the rear rubber in short order. For now, full driving impressions of the IONIQ 5 N are under embargo, but I’ll be sharing my experience at Weather Tech Laguna Seca soon. A hint? It’s a must see. Subscribe and click notifications so you don’t miss it.

Is F-150 is too big? Maverick too small? The new 2024 Ford Ranger is a tiny bit larger than the outgoing model and that adds big benefits. 4-foot-wide material sheets load between the wheel wells. The cabin gets a more inviting look. It has the smoothest turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in its class. It goes down the road in a relaxed manner (due in part to its mid-sized form factor). Tom Voelk checks out a well-equipped XLT 4x4.

Want fun, affordability and practicality from your next ride? The Mazda3 enters the chat. Starting at $25,400, the Carbon Turbo is the sweet spot at 33 grand, adding turbocharged power and all-wheel drive. It’s roomy enough to handle a small family and engaging enough to entertain enthusiastic drivers. Plus, the Carbon Editions are easy to buy (if only because there are no color or option choices). Tom Voelk drives the sedan (and really there are plenty of 4-door choices).

Kia’s Carnival has always offered space and comfort. The refreshed 2025 model adds something big- a hybrid powertrain for significantly better efficiency. How does it stack up against the hybrids in Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica? Tom Voelk travels to Detroit, MI for a first look at the top trim SX Prestige trim. Kia brought Tom to Michigan for this preview. His opinions remain his own.