http://www.toledoblade.com The Latest News from Toledoblade.com (v5) Wed, 21 Oct 2026 04:01:42 GMT en-us hourly 1 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/18/how-general-motors-is-simulating-its-way-to-autonomous-driving/stories/20261018031 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/18/how-general-motors-is-simulating-its-way-to-autonomous-driving/stories/20261018031#comments Sun, 18 Oct 2026 11:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/18/how-general-motors-is-simulating-its-way-to-autonomous-driving/stories/20261018031 WARREN, Mich. — At the General Motors Global Technical Center in suburban Detroit, hundreds of volunteer, real-world drivers have hopped inside a Cadillac Lyriq electric vehicle or other popular GM models and experienced all sorts of things while in the car: regular roadway driving, driving up and down hills, construction, rain, nearby traffic, and other scenarios. In this image from video, General Motors senior researcher Akilesh Rajavenkatanarayanan plays Candy Crush on a tablet mounted in a Cadillac Lyriq while it is in "eyes off" mode during a simulated drive Sept. 18 at the automaker's Global Technical Center in Warren, Mich. In this image from video, a display screen on the dashboard of a Cadillac Lyriq indicates the vehicle is in "Eyes free active" mode during a simulated drive Sept. 19 at General Motors' Global Technical Center in Warren, Mich. In this image from video, Maureen August, General Motors Research Development senior manager, discusses a driving simulation with a colleague inside a control room Sept. 18 at the automaker's Global Technical Center in Warren, Mich. In this image from video, a control room display shows data and video from a simulated drive taking place at General Motors' Global Technical Center on Sept. 18 in Warren, Mich. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/17/hyundai-santa-fe-vs-nissan-pathfinder-three-row-suv-comparison/stories/20261017009 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/17/hyundai-santa-fe-vs-nissan-pathfinder-three-row-suv-comparison/stories/20261017009#comments Sat, 17 Oct 2026 11:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/17/hyundai-santa-fe-vs-nissan-pathfinder-three-row-suv-comparison/stories/20261017009 With prices ballooning everywhere, finding a large family vehicle that fits your budget has become harder than ever. That’s why the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan Pathfinder are appealing. The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe offers eye-catching boxy styling, abundant driver assist features and easy-to-use tech, and it's available with a hybrid powertrain. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder provides pleasing power, usable infotainment, and scores high for a spacious cabin and a third row that can accommodate bigger kids or even adults. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/10/behind-the-wheel-the-5-future-vehicles-you-need-to-watch-for/stories/20261010008 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/10/behind-the-wheel-the-5-future-vehicles-you-need-to-watch-for/stories/20261010008#comments Sat, 10 Oct 2026 11:13:33 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/10/behind-the-wheel-the-5-future-vehicles-you-need-to-watch-for/stories/20261010008 Fall is typically when automakers release the majority of their models for the new year. Most will be continuations of prior designs, but there’s also a good number that are all-new or getting major redesigns. The 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid, a fourth-generation small SUV, debuts with a new hybrid powertrain that promises up to 38 mpg in combined city/highway mileage. In a major departure, the 2027 Toyota Highlander is all-electric, with no gas engine offered. Toyota cites a range of up to 320 miles. Designed to go head-to-head with the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7, the new 2027 Audi Q9 is meant to bring full-size luxury SUV buyers into Audi showrooms. The 2027 Slate Truck is a new bare-bones electric vehicle from a new manufacturer, and it bucks pretty much every automotive trend of the last few decades. This photo provided by Chevrolet shows the 2027 Silverado. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 gets a significant update for 2027, allowing it to better battle key rivals like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. (Courtesy of General Motors via AP) https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/03/behind-the-wheel-the-top-5-midsize-suvs/stories/20261003006 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/03/behind-the-wheel-the-top-5-midsize-suvs/stories/20261003006#comments Sat, 03 Oct 2026 11:14:36 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/10/03/behind-the-wheel-the-top-5-midsize-suvs/stories/20261003006 Small SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are very popular, but what if you’re looking for something roomier? Fully redesigned, the 2026 Subaru Outback has a more upscale interior and improved technology features while still delivering plenty of versatility. The midsize 2026 Honda Passport will appeal to families and adventurers alike thanks to its spacious back seat and cargo area. The 2026 Mazda CX-70 offers sporty performance and an upscale interior, both of which help it stand out from its main rivals. The 2026 Toyota Crown Signia comes standard with a hybrid powertrain and delivers an EPA-estimated 38 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a two-row midsize SUV, leans into its near-luxury status and features while providing the off-road capability Jeep is known for. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/27/chinese-auto-companies-ev-technology-5-minute-ultrafast-charging/stories/20260927069 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/27/chinese-auto-companies-ev-technology-5-minute-ultrafast-charging/stories/20260927069#comments Sun, 27 Sep 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/27/chinese-auto-companies-ev-technology-5-minute-ultrafast-charging/stories/20260927069 HONG KONG — Chinese electric vehicles’ ultrafast charging is only getting faster. Visitors look at a Geely Galaxy E8 electric car during the Auto China 2024 in Beijing in 2024. A BYD electric vehicle charges at a dealership in Camacari, Bahia state, Brazil, in 2025. A chamber with sub-zero temperatures to showcase the battery charging technologies at the BYD booth during Auto China 2026 in Beijing on April 24. Electricity can be seen as a demonstration of CATL's Naxtra battery working in -50 celsius environment at the CATL booth during Auto China 2026 in Beijing on April 25. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/26/behind-the-wheel-electric-suv-showdown-rivian-r2-vs-tesla-model-y/stories/20260926007 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/26/behind-the-wheel-electric-suv-showdown-rivian-r2-vs-tesla-model-y/stories/20260926007#comments Sat, 26 Sep 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/26/behind-the-wheel-electric-suv-showdown-rivian-r2-vs-tesla-model-y/stories/20260926007 The Tesla Model Y has been the sales king of small electric SUVs since the moment it arrived. The Rivian R2 is a charming electric SUV that distills everything Edmunds likes about the three-row Rivian R1S into a smaller, more affordable package. The Tesla Model Y offers a spacious interior, plenty of range, and advanced driving features that make long trips less tedious. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/19/behind-the-wheel-budget-suvs-honda-hr-v-vs-kia-seltos/stories/20260919010 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/19/behind-the-wheel-budget-suvs-honda-hr-v-vs-kia-seltos/stories/20260919010#comments Sat, 19 Sep 2026 11:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/19/behind-the-wheel-budget-suvs-honda-hr-v-vs-kia-seltos/stories/20260919010 Crossovers have become a popular choice for buyers who want the practicality of an SUV without the size and expense of a larger vehicle. The 2027 Kia Seltos is an excellent little SUV, with an appealing base price, lots of standard features, and a surprisingly roomy cabin given the small footprint. The 2027 Honda HR-V is a practical SUV that nails the basics. It offers a fantastic value with an upscale-feeling interior, generous passenger room, and larger-than-average cargo space. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/12/4-things-buying-certified-preowned-car/stories/20260912010 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/12/4-things-buying-certified-preowned-car/stories/20260912010#comments Sat, 12 Sep 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/12/4-things-buying-certified-preowned-car/stories/20260912010 Shopping for a used vehicle can be nerve-wracking even for seasoned veterans. Regardless of how well you know the mechanical workings of the modern automobile, buying a used car is always a gamble. If you’re one who likes to minimize risk, buying a certified preowned model can reduce some of the uncertainty. Certified pre-owned vehicles cost more but deliver added peace of mind through inspections by factory-trained technicians, automaker warranties, and more. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/07/inexpensive-new-cars-are-becoming-tougher-and-tougher-to-find/stories/20260906044 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/07/inexpensive-new-cars-are-becoming-tougher-and-tougher-to-find/stories/20260906044#comments Mon, 07 Sep 2026 10:12:32 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/07/inexpensive-new-cars-are-becoming-tougher-and-tougher-to-find/stories/20260906044 Car salesman Bob Kain recalls the first time he saw a luxury car with a $25,000 sticker price at his family dealership. It was 1989, and the car was a Ford Crown Victoria. A customer looks at vehicles for sale at an AutoNation Toyota dealership in Hayward, Calif. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/05/behind-the-wheel-plug-in-hybrid-suvs-toyota-rav4-vs-hyundai-tucson/stories/20260905006 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/05/behind-the-wheel-plug-in-hybrid-suvs-toyota-rav4-vs-hyundai-tucson/stories/20260905006#comments Sat, 05 Sep 2026 10:30:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/05/behind-the-wheel-plug-in-hybrid-suvs-toyota-rav4-vs-hyundai-tucson/stories/20260905006 If you’re looking to reduce your gas bills but buying an electric vehicle just isn’t for you, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid or 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid might be a smart solution. The plug-in hybrid 2026 Hyundai Tucson. The plug-in hybrid 2026 Royota Rav4. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/04/us-diesel-prices-hit-a-record-high-of-5-85-on-average-as-the-iran-war-disrupts-the-flow-of-fuel/stories/20260904073 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/04/us-diesel-prices-hit-a-record-high-of-5-85-on-average-as-the-iran-war-disrupts-the-flow-of-fuel/stories/20260904073#comments Fri, 04 Sep 2026 11:37:51 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/09/04/us-diesel-prices-hit-a-record-high-of-5-85-on-average-as-the-iran-war-disrupts-the-flow-of-fuel/stories/20260904073 CHICAGO — Diesel hit a new record price in the U.S. on Friday, soaring to an average of $5.85 a gallon for the first time ever as the six-month war with Iran disrupts the world’s flow of fuel. A nozzle pumps diesel into the fuel tank of bus in Orange, Calif., April 7. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/31/japanese-automakers-nissan-and-honda-agree-to-work-together-on-software-for-cars/stories/20260831069 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/31/japanese-automakers-nissan-and-honda-agree-to-work-together-on-software-for-cars/stories/20260831069#comments Mon, 31 Aug 2026 10:34:16 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/31/japanese-automakers-nissan-and-honda-agree-to-work-together-on-software-for-cars/stories/20260831069 TOKYO — Japanese automakers Nissan and Honda entered a deal to jointly develop computer parts and software for vehicles set to enter the market in fiscal 2029, both sides said Monday. The Honda and Nissan dealerships are shown in Carmel, Ind., Aug. 6. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/29/behind-the-wheel-sport-coupe-tests-pits-honda-prelude-vs-toyota-gr86/stories/20260829008 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/29/behind-the-wheel-sport-coupe-tests-pits-honda-prelude-vs-toyota-gr86/stories/20260829008#comments Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:17:22 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/29/behind-the-wheel-sport-coupe-tests-pits-honda-prelude-vs-toyota-gr86/stories/20260829008 Fun-to-drive coupes have been on the wane in the past few decades, which makes it worth paying attention when a new one shows up. The 2026 Honda Prelude is showcased at the LA Auto Show in Los Angeles on Nov. 20. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/22/behind-the-wheel-save-money-and-gas-with-a-used-hybrid-vehicle/stories/20260822010 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/22/behind-the-wheel-save-money-and-gas-with-a-used-hybrid-vehicle/stories/20260822010#comments Sat, 22 Aug 2026 10:30:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/22/behind-the-wheel-save-money-and-gas-with-a-used-hybrid-vehicle/stories/20260822010 Buying a used car can be a smart money move. The Toyota Prius' redesign in 2023 brought headturning looks and improved performance to accompany its longstanding fuel efficiency. The 2023 Honda Accord is a roomy midsize sedan that, with its redesign, offers a hybrid powertrain with appealing efficiency and satisfying acceleration. The 2023 Honda CR-V is a small SUV that offers roomy seating, a smooth ride, and plenty of cargo space, plus an available hybrid powertrain. The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a three-row midsize SUV that can seat eight passengers and deliver fuel economy of up to 36 mpg combined. The 2023 Lexus RX is a luxury small SUV that's sought after by shoppers. It offers two hybrid powertrains, one that's more fuel-efficient and the other that's more performance-oriented. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/15/behind-the-wheel-the-cars-that-won-t-be-around-next-year/stories/20260815011 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/15/behind-the-wheel-the-cars-that-won-t-be-around-next-year/stories/20260815011#comments Sat, 15 Aug 2026 11:09:13 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/15/behind-the-wheel-the-cars-that-won-t-be-around-next-year/stories/20260815011 A small number of vehicles are discontinued every year. The Ford Escape is in its last year of production. The small SUV offers comfortable seating, a smooth ride quality, and easy-to-use controls as well as hybrid and plug-in powertrain options. The Volkswagen ID.4 is a small all-electric SUV that you may be able to get for about $10,000 off the sticker price. The Jaguar F-Pace is a luxury SUV that you may be able to score a deal on as Jaguar transitions to a fully electric lineup. The Toyota GR Supra sports car is going out of production. It boasts a 382-horsepower engine, an engaging driving experience and an available manual transmission. The base mode of the Tesla Model S has all-wheel drive and an EPA-estimated range of 410 miles. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/10/ford-s-extremely-expensive-bet-on-a-very-cheap-truck-fathom/stories/20260810020 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/10/ford-s-extremely-expensive-bet-on-a-very-cheap-truck-fathom/stories/20260810020#comments Mon, 10 Aug 2026 10:25:34 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/10/ford-s-extremely-expensive-bet-on-a-very-cheap-truck-fathom/stories/20260810020 Ford is the undisputed global leader in pickup trucks. The F-Series is the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. — of any kind — since 1981. Its latest pickup, the Ford Fathom, will cost a downright cheap $28,350, which should set it up to be a massive seller. Ford F-150 pickup trucks for sale in Encinitas, Calif., on Oct. 20, 2025. An employee polishes the 2025 Ford Maverick Hybrid pickup truck during the Los Angeles Auto Show, in Los Angeles, on Nov. 21, 2024. Ford has spent billions beyond the usual costs developing the Fathom, a smaller electric pickup truck that goes on sale in 2027. The unveiling of the F-150 Lightning outside of Ford's headquarters in Dearborn, Mich. on May 19, 2021. Ford F-150 Lightning trucks under production at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, Mich. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/08/behind-the-wheel-the-best-suvs-for-towing-in-2026/stories/20260808018 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/08/behind-the-wheel-the-best-suvs-for-towing-in-2026/stories/20260808018#comments Sat, 08 Aug 2026 11:30:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/08/behind-the-wheel-the-best-suvs-for-towing-in-2026/stories/20260808018 Choosing the best new SUV for your needs can be difficult, especially if you plan on using it for towing. Small SUV: Properly equipped, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Midsize three-row SUV 2026: Properly equipped, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 pounds. Full-size SUV 2026: Properly equipped, the 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer can tow up to 10,000 pounds. Luxury SUV 2026: Properly equipped, the 2026 Lincoln Navigator can tow up to 8,700 pounds. Electric SUV 2026: Properly equipped, the 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ can tow up to 8,000 pounds. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/01/behind-the-wheel-the-5-best-midsize-three-row-suvs/stories/20260801012 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/01/behind-the-wheel-the-5-best-midsize-three-row-suvs/stories/20260801012#comments Sat, 01 Aug 2026 12:13:19 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/01/behind-the-wheel-the-5-best-midsize-three-row-suvs/stories/20260801012 Size, space and utility have made the three-row SUV a mainstay of American family life. But with more than dozen mainstream models on the market, choosing one can feel daunting. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade has been redesigned and features new styling and a roomy interior fitted with premium features and materials. The redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride's spacious cabin, smooth ride, and generous list of standard tech features make it an easy SUV to drive every day. The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is an excellent choice for those who want to maximize passenger comfort and space without upgrading to a full-size SUV. The 2027 Ford Explorer stands out for its quick acceleration and engaging driving experience. It also offers a special Tremor version that is better equipped to handle dirt roads and light-duty off-road trails. The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas works well as a roomy family hauler with plenty of space for people and their cargo. It also comes with many standard features. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/01/millennials-are-trying-to-make-minivans-cool-again/stories/20260801004 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/01/millennials-are-trying-to-make-minivans-cool-again/stories/20260801004#comments Sat, 01 Aug 2026 12:12:35 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/08/01/millennials-are-trying-to-make-minivans-cool-again/stories/20260801004 NEW YORK — They see them rolling, but maybe they won’t be hating. A 2026 Honda Odyssey at a Honda dealership on April 15 in Highlands Ranch, Colo. The 2026 Toyota Sienna at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November, 2025. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/27/us-ev-sales-are-down-but-not-out-here-s-why-automakers-won-t-pull-the-plug/stories/20260726033 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/27/us-ev-sales-are-down-but-not-out-here-s-why-automakers-won-t-pull-the-plug/stories/20260726033#comments Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/27/us-ev-sales-are-down-but-not-out-here-s-why-automakers-won-t-pull-the-plug/stories/20260726033 A quick glance at U.S. electric vehicle sales might give the impression EVs are a niche product, unable to shake Americans’ love affair with gas-powered trucks and SUVs. An electric vehicle charges in Monrovia, Calif. Chinese-made vehicles including BYD cars (L) wait to be transshipped for export at a port in Suzhou, in China's eastern Jiangsu province on April 27.