It would seem that hybrid king Toyota has pushed back against battery electric vehicles. But it does make a BEV- the bZ4X. With a range of up to 252 miles, it’s available in front and all-wheel drive. How does it drive? Tom Voelk drives a front-wheel drive Limited model and finds it to be a solid performer with an excellent driving dynamic. Charging speed and curve? That might be the deal breaker for those that travel long distances.

An all-new Sequoia doesn’t come around all that often. The third generation has a few surprises. For starters, it packs a hybrid powertrain with a 10-speed transmission. And the TRD Pro model gets forged-aluminum wheels wearing 33-inch all- terrain tires, extra underbody protection and an off-road tuned suspension with Fox internal bypass coil-overs. And in Solar Octane paint, it will show up all traffic cones everywhere. Tom Voelk takes the TRD Pro on pavement and off-road to see if it can live in both worlds.

It’s no secret that buyers have migrated to crossovers and SUVs. Now it seems like people want a little more machismo from their machines, even if it’s just looks. Nissan adds a little extra bravado to the Pathfinder with the Rock Creek model. It adds extra ground clearance, a heavy-duty roof rack, all-terrain rubber, an off-road suspension and a bunch more stuff. Even more power from the V6 engine. Tom Voelk takes it off road, on rock, that’s near a creek (get it) to see if it really improves capability.

The Chevrolet Bolt is a great electric vehicle with some 250 miles of range at a starting price of $26,600. The slightly larger EUV model can now be had in Redline trim. Is it just stripes and wheels or does it add some bolt to the Bolt? Tom Voelk checks out a fully loaded Premier Redline in Silver Flare Metallic that retails for less than $38K before any state or federal tax incentives. And that’s equipped with the true handsfree Super Cruise system. There is that pokey DC fast charge rate though…

It’s been a while since the Lexus LX has been totally revamped. The all-new LX 600 is more powerful, better planted and runs with an all-new architecture with roots shared with the Tundra pickup. And there’s a new Ultra Luxury model that offers those in back massaging seats and entertainment choices. It’s not without its compromises though. Tom Voelk checks the top-of-the line model in Nori Green and finds the $130K price tag… ultra. Note- This is a 2022 model, 2023 LX 600s are pretty much the same.

It’s quicker, handles better, delivers up to 57 miles per gallon and you won’t feel the need to drive wearing a disguise. The 2023 Toyota Prius is better in almost every way and not by just a small amount. And the svelte design language is something you’ll see more of out of Toyota. Tom Voelk travels to San Diego, CA for a deep dive into the all-new 5th generation Prius. He teams up with Ryan Douthit from Driving Sports TV to check out the ugly duckling that has become a swan. They drive an Limited AWD model in Wind Chill Pearl.

I get to drive a lot of vehicles, some 80 in 2022. These 11 are the ones that I think are worth looking at, the cars and trucks that are a great combination of value, features, design and capability. The ground rules- each one needs to be less than $100K or so reasonably optioned (that means no GMC Hummer EV or Porsche Taycans, which are terrific in what they do). I choose from a wide variety of categories that people actually buy, so not everything is a performance car. Check it out and see if you agree.

Three-row SUVs and crossovers offer families loads of flexibility and space. That’s great, until it’s time to fuel up. The all-wheel drive Toyota Highland Hybrid is rated by the EPA to get 35 miles per gallon in both city and highway driving. Does it? Tom Voelk takes a Bronze Edition model round trip from Seattle, WA to Bend, OR to see if it’s possible (and if it’s comfortable).

The second-generation Kia Niro can be had as a fully electric vehicle with a solid range of 253 miles. It’s got style to put a smile on your face when walking up to it. And it’s a practical hatchback (though the Kia marketing team wants you to see it as an SUV). But no car is perfect and Niro is up against cars that charge faster and cost less. Tom Voelk checks out a top trim Wave model just outside of San Diego, CA and finds it to be quiet and comfortable.