http://www.toledoblade.com The Latest News from Toledoblade.com (v5) Wed, 19 Aug 2026 04:09:43 GMT en-us hourly 1 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. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/26/backup-power-automakers-vehicles-electric-ford-kia-general-motors/stories/20260726044 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/26/backup-power-automakers-vehicles-electric-ford-kia-general-motors/stories/20260726044#comments Sun, 26 Jul 2026 11:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/26/backup-power-automakers-vehicles-electric-ford-kia-general-motors/stories/20260726044 DETROIT — Winter Storm Uri, the multiday freeze that slammed Texas in February, 2021 and pummeled the state’s power grid, has been on Kenneth Kovar’s mind ever since. Though the resident of New Braunfels, northeast of San Antonio, didn’t lose power at the time, he wasn’t able to run his septic tank — it is independent from local systems. He had to fill his toilets with water from his backyard pool. Unsold 2026 F-150 pickup trucks sit in a long line outside a Ford agency April 12 in Centennial, Colo. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/25/behind-the-wheel-electric-luxury-sedans-lexus-es-vs-mercedes-cla/stories/20260725013 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/25/behind-the-wheel-electric-luxury-sedans-lexus-es-vs-mercedes-cla/stories/20260725013#comments Sat, 25 Jul 2026 11:15:59 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/25/behind-the-wheel-electric-luxury-sedans-lexus-es-vs-mercedes-cla/stories/20260725013 The Lexus ES and Mercedes-Benz CLA are two luxury sedans you might be familiar with. The ES is Lexus’ comfort-oriented midsize sedan, while the CLA is a relatively affordable entry point to getting a new Mercedes. The 2026 Lexus ES 350e will impress you with its spacious and comfortable interior that's packed with standout technology features. The 2027 Mercedes CLA 250+ is the least expensive car Edmunds has tested that has more than 400 miles of real-world range. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/19/after-a-year-of-tariffs-automakers-still-resistant-to-moving-production-to-u-s/stories/20260719029 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/19/after-a-year-of-tariffs-automakers-still-resistant-to-moving-production-to-u-s/stories/20260719029#comments Sun, 19 Jul 2026 12:35:03 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/19/after-a-year-of-tariffs-automakers-still-resistant-to-moving-production-to-u-s/stories/20260719029 Toyota announced two weeks ago it would do something other automakers have been reluctant to do — shift some production from Mexico to the United States. An aerial view of newly imported cars parked at the automobile terminal at the Port of Los Angeles. Despite paying billions in tariffs, automakers have continued to import vehicles rather than shut foreign production and build new U.S. factories. A semi-truck carrying new Toyota Tacomas at the U.S.-Mexico border in San Diego, Calif. A worker assembles electronic car keys at a manufacturing plant in Mexico. The small, handheld remote controls are assembled in Mexico, but they cross borders in North America several times before being finished, like countless other auto parts and products. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/18/behind-the-wheel-this-is-how-to-stretch-your-new-car-buying-dollars-in-2026/stories/20260718007 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/18/behind-the-wheel-this-is-how-to-stretch-your-new-car-buying-dollars-in-2026/stories/20260718007#comments Sat, 18 Jul 2026 11:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/18/behind-the-wheel-this-is-how-to-stretch-your-new-car-buying-dollars-in-2026/stories/20260718007 With new-vehicle prices hovering near record highs and monthly payments consuming a growing share of household budgets, many shoppers are looking for ways to make every car-buying dollar go further. And with ample options for where, when and how to buy, it’s not hard to do. A shopper passes by an unsold 2026 Cooper S John Cooper Works 1965 Victory Edition hardtop on display in the showroom of a Mini dealership June 26 in Highlands Ranch, Colo. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/11/behind-the-wheel-the-best-used-sedans-for-under-15-000/stories/20260711012 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/11/behind-the-wheel-the-best-used-sedans-for-under-15-000/stories/20260711012#comments Sat, 11 Jul 2026 10:45:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/11/behind-the-wheel-the-best-used-sedans-for-under-15-000/stories/20260711012 According to Edmunds data, the average transaction price of a 3-year-old used vehicle is more than $30,000. This is a big discount compared with buying new, but it’s still potentially out of reach financially for a lot of people. Fortunately, spending about half that can still get you a car with a compelling combination of comfort, reliability, fuel economy, and modern technology. The Honda Civic is a longtime popular choice for a small sedan that offers peppy acceleration and solid fuel economy as well as solid construction. Aim to find a 2016 Civic, pictured, the year it received a redesign and a new optional turbocharged engine. The Kia Forte is a stylish and quiet small sedan that offers an extensive list of available features. The 2019-2021 model years should work with a $15,000 budget cap. The Mazda 3 is a small sedan with a sense of style to match its fun-to-drive demeanor. Buyers should look for a third-generation model produced from 2014 through 2018. The Toyota Corolla is a sensible, comfortable choice for a small sedan that offers an appealing list of advanced driver assist features. You should be able to find a 2015 to 2017 Corolla for under $15,000. The Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan that offers more space for passengers and their cargo than the other sedans on this list. The 2019 Malibu, pictured, is worth a look for its revised styling and updated infotainment tech. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/04/behind-the-wheel-30-000-ev-comparison-chevrolet-bolt-vs-nissan-leaf/stories/20260704018 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/04/behind-the-wheel-30-000-ev-comparison-chevrolet-bolt-vs-nissan-leaf/stories/20260704018#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 12:37:45 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/07/04/behind-the-wheel-30-000-ev-comparison-chevrolet-bolt-vs-nissan-leaf/stories/20260704018 Many new electric vehicles are prohibitively expensive for car shoppers. But there are a few relatively low-cost options that provide plenty of usable range and utility. The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt is an affordable EV that is back on the market with more range, quicker charging, and improved technology features. The 2026 Nissan Leaf, a small EV, has been redesigned with flashier styling and a max EPA-estimated range of more than 300 miles. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/30/ford-recalling-more-than-741-00-vehicles-because-of-park-system-issue/stories/20260630093 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/30/ford-recalling-more-than-741-00-vehicles-because-of-park-system-issue/stories/20260630093#comments Tue, 30 Jun 2026 15:15:45 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/30/ford-recalling-more-than-741-00-vehicles-because-of-park-system-issue/stories/20260630093 DETROIT — Ford is recalling more than 741,000 vehicles in the United States because a transmission issue might damage the park system, which could increase the risk of a crash or injury. The company logo is shown on the grille of an unsold 2026 F-series pickup truck on the lot of a Ford dealership Nov. 2, 2025, in Littleton, Colo. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/27/taylor-automotive-transfers-ownership-employees/stories/20260624005 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/27/taylor-automotive-transfers-ownership-employees/stories/20260624005#comments Sat, 27 Jun 2026 13:07:13 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/27/taylor-automotive-transfers-ownership-employees/stories/20260624005 Employee ownership at Taylor Automotive Group isn’t just a line in a news release — it’s how people are talking to each other.  Since last week’s announcement, staff have been walking the halls saying, “Good morning, owner… have a great evening, owner, In front of a new Hyundai, Steve Taylor, Jr., left, and CEO Peter Demczuk, right, stand with employees at Taylor Hyundai of Toledo on June 23 in Perrysburg. Taylor Automotive has transitioned to a 100 percent employee-owned company through a new Employee Stock Ownership Plan. Steve Taylor, Jr., works at Taylor Hyundai of Toledo on June 23 in Perrysburg. Steve Taylor, Jr., works at Taylor Hyundai of Toledo on June 23 in Perrysburg. In front of a new Hyundai, Steve Taylor, Jr., left, and CEO Peter Demczuk, right, stand with employees at Taylor Hyundai of Toledo on June 23 in Perrysburg. Taylor Automotive has transitioned to a 100 percent employee-owned company through a new Employee Stock Ownership Plan. Peter Demczuk, CEO, left, and Steve Taylor, Jr., work at Taylor Hyundai of Toledo on June 23 in Perrysburg. Sales associates William Mays, left, and Chad Hamlin work at Taylor Hyundai of Toledo on June 23 in Perrysburg. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/27/behind-the-wheel-hybrid-suvs-jeep-cherokee-vs-subaru-forester/stories/20260627009 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/27/behind-the-wheel-hybrid-suvs-jeep-cherokee-vs-subaru-forester/stories/20260627009#comments Sat, 27 Jun 2026 11:07:45 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/27/behind-the-wheel-hybrid-suvs-jeep-cherokee-vs-subaru-forester/stories/20260627009 Two new hybrid SUVs have hit the market in the last two years from brands known for their outdoorsy images: the Jeep Cherokee and the Subaru Forester. This photo shows the 2026 Jeep Cherokee. Jeep's small SUV is all-new and comes with a standard hybrid powertrain that gets an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined. The 2026 Forester Hybrid small SUV gets an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/20/behind-the-wheel-save-on-gas-with-these-five-used-plug-in-hybrid-vehicles/stories/20260620010 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/20/behind-the-wheel-save-on-gas-with-these-five-used-plug-in-hybrid-vehicles/stories/20260620010#comments Sat, 20 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/20/behind-the-wheel-save-on-gas-with-these-five-used-plug-in-hybrid-vehicles/stories/20260620010 Are you looking to buy a vehicle that will help you avoid today’s high gas prices? The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is sleek and stylish, but even more exciting are its 50-plus miles of all-electric range and high fuel economy. The 2024 Tucson Plug-in Hybrid is just like a regular Tucson but with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that can drive more than 30 miles on all-electric power. The 2024 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is a comfortable and versatile three-row SUV that gets great mpg thanks to its 30-plus miles of electric range. This photo provided a 2021 BMW X5. The plug-in hybrid version of the X5 is ideal for those who want a luxury SUV that can go 30-plus miles on all-electric power. This photo provided shows a 2020 Porsche Panamera. A plug-in hybrid version of a Panamera has less than 20 miles of all-electric range but fully delivers all of the refinement you expect of a premium luxury sedan. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/19/taylor-automotive-family-announces-100-percent-employee-ownership/stories/20260619095 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/19/taylor-automotive-family-announces-100-percent-employee-ownership/stories/20260619095#comments Fri, 19 Jun 2026 17:18:08 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/19/taylor-automotive-family-announces-100-percent-employee-ownership/stories/20260619095 The Taylor Automotive Family has officially become 100 percent employee-owned, the company announced Friday. Stephen D. Taylor II works inside his office at Taylor Hyundai in Perrysburg in 2024. From left, Tom Cole, Taylor Ambassador Toledo, Danielle Edwards, marketing communications manager for Leading Families Home, Stephen Taylor, owner of Taylor Automotive, Stephanie Reighard, executive assistant for Leading Families Home, and Terry Crosby, Taylor Ambassador Toledo, at Taylor Hyundai in Perrysburg in 2024. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/13/edmunds-five-best-used-performance-cars-for-less-than-25-000-1/stories/20260613008 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/13/edmunds-five-best-used-performance-cars-for-less-than-25-000-1/stories/20260613008#comments Sat, 13 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/13/edmunds-five-best-used-performance-cars-for-less-than-25-000-1/stories/20260613008 If you like the idea of owning a fun-to-drive car but can’t afford a new one, this summer is an ideal time to consider buying used. Right now, quite a few performance cars that might have been out of reach for you when new can be had for less than $25,000 on the used market. This photo provided by BMW shows a 2018 2 Series coupe. Benefitting from elements pulled from more expensive models in the BMW lineup, the 2 Series boasts plenty of features for the money and strong performance. This photo provided by Edmunds shows a 2008 Corvette. Driving is believing when it comes to this American icon. The Corvette is silly fast in any form, and it's more pleasant as a daily driver than anything this capable has a right to be. This photo provided by Mazda shows a 2019 MX-5 Miata. Thanks to its light weight and nimble handling, a Miata is best enjoyed with its top down while driving along a twisty road. This photo provided by Subaru shows a 2018 BRZ. The BRZ is blessed by rear-wheel drive, superb steering, balanced handling and an easy-to-drive nature. This photo provided by Edmunds shows a 2018 Golf GTI. One drive in a GTI and you'll understand why this model has become something of an icon since its American debut in 1983. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/12/dana-pleased-by-its-deal-to-acquire-eaton-mobility/stories/20260612076 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/12/dana-pleased-by-its-deal-to-acquire-eaton-mobility/stories/20260612076#comments Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:32:27 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/12/dana-pleased-by-its-deal-to-acquire-eaton-mobility/stories/20260612076 Maumee-based Dana Inc. believes it has positioned itself to become the world’s top powertrain supplier as a result of an agreement with Eaton Corp. that was announced this week. Dana Inc. headquarters in Maumee. https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/06/behind-the-wheel-electric-suv-showdown-revamped-toyota-bz-vs-tesla-model-y/stories/20260606010 https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/06/behind-the-wheel-electric-suv-showdown-revamped-toyota-bz-vs-tesla-model-y/stories/20260606010#comments Sat, 06 Jun 2026 11:28:42 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/business/automotive/2026/06/06/behind-the-wheel-electric-suv-showdown-revamped-toyota-bz-vs-tesla-model-y/stories/20260606010 Once you’ve decided to buy an electric vehicle, the exciting but tricky part is choosing which one to get. For a growing number of car shoppers, an electric SUV makes the most sense for everyday life. This photo provided by Edmunds shows the 2026 Model Y. The Model Y offers a spacious, comfortable interior, quick acceleration, and over 300 miles of range. (Courtesy of Edmunds via AP) This photo provided by Toyota shows the 2026 bZ. The 2026 Toyota bZ isn't flashy, but a comfortable cabin and intuitive tech make it a great daily driver. (Courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. via AP)