Driven Car Reviews Oct 9, 2025

15 Vehicles. 15 Auto Writers. Which Car Wins 2025 NWAPA Drive Revolution?

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Term

internal combustion engine

An internal combustion engine is what most cars use to run. It works by burning fuel inside the engine to create power that moves the car.

Car

Mazda MX-5

The Mazda MX-5 is a small sports car that is very fun to drive. In the U.S., people usually call it the Miata instead of its official name.

Car

Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a small sports car that is fun to drive and easy to handle. The first generation of this car came out in 1989 and is loved by many for its enjoyable driving experience.

Term

six-speed manual transmission

A six-speed manual transmission is a type of gear system in cars that lets you change gears manually. It has six different gears, which helps the car perform better and gives the driver more control.

Car

Volkswagen Tiguan

The Volkswagen Tiguan is a small SUV that is popular for its good looks and useful features. The 2026 version has some new updates that make it even better.

Term

wood veneer

Wood veneer is a thin layer of real wood used in furniture and cars to make them look nicer. It gives a fancy touch to the inside of a vehicle.

Car

The Toyota Corolla is a small car that many people buy because it's reliable and saves gas. It's been around for a long time and is known for being a good choice for getting from place to place without spending too much money. Many people trust it to be a safe and efficient car.

Car

Toyota GR Corolla

The Toyota GR Corolla is a sportier version of the regular Corolla, made for people who enjoy driving and want a fun experience.

Term

turbocharged

Turbocharging is a way to make an engine more powerful without making it bigger. It uses a special device to push more air into the engine, which helps it produce more power.

Term

horsepower

Horsepower is a way to measure how strong an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the more powerful the engine is.

Term

carbon fiber

Carbon fiber is a super strong and light material used in cars to make them faster and more efficient by reducing weight.

Term

center of gravity

The center of gravity is the point where a car's weight is balanced. Lowering it helps the car stay stable and handle better when turning.

Car

Chrysler New Yorker

The Chrysler New Yorker is an old luxury car that was known for being very comfortable and having a lot of space inside. It was popular many years ago and is now considered a classic. People talk about it because it represents a different time in car design and luxury.

Term

manual six-speed gearbox

A manual six-speed gearbox is a type of transmission that lets you change gears yourself, which can make driving more fun and give you more control.

Term

eight-speed automatic

An eight-speed automatic is a type of transmission that shifts gears by itself, making driving easier and often more efficient.

Term

chassis enhancements

Chassis enhancements are upgrades to a car's structure and suspension that help it handle better and drive more smoothly.

Car

Dodge Charger

The Dodge Charger Daytona is a new electric car that looks and feels like a traditional muscle car. It's designed to be exciting to drive, even though it's powered by electricity instead of gasoline.

Term

Brembo brakes

Brembo is a brand that makes really good brakes for cars. They help the car stop quickly and safely, especially when driving fast.

Car

Lucid Air

The Lucid Air is a fancy electric car that can go a long distance on a single charge. It's designed to be very comfortable and has lots of high-tech features.

Term

DreamDrive

DreamDrive is a system in some cars that helps with driving, allowing the car to drive itself in certain situations without needing the driver to hold the steering wheel.

Term

BlueCruise

BlueCruise is a feature in some Ford cars that lets you drive without using your hands on the steering wheel on specific roads.

Term

SuperCruise

SuperCruise is a feature in some Cadillac cars that allows you to drive without using your hands on the steering wheel, but it checks to make sure you're paying attention.

Car

Lucid Gravity

The Lucid Gravity is a fancy electric SUV that will have lots of space and high-tech features. It's made by a company that focuses on luxury electric cars, and people are excited about it because it promises to be very comfortable and powerful. It's part of the growing trend of electric vehicles.

Term

EV

An EV is a car that uses electricity to run instead of traditional fuel like gas.

Car

Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang Mach-E GT is a sporty electric SUV that is part of the Mustang family. It has powerful features and can drive all four wheels, making it faster and more fun to drive.

Term

0-60 time

0-60 time is how long it takes a car to go from a complete stop to going 60 miles per hour. It's a way to measure how fast a car can speed up.

Term

kilowatt

A kilowatt is a way to measure how much power something uses. In electric cars, it helps show how quickly the car can charge its battery.

Car

Genesis GV60

The Genesis GV60 is a fancy electric SUV from the luxury brand Genesis. The 2026 version has some new features that make it even better.

Car

Genesis GV70

The Genesis GV70 is a fancy SUV that has a lot of luxury features and a smooth ride. It's part of a newer brand that wants to compete with well-known luxury car makers. People are interested in it because it looks nice and feels comfortable to drive.

Term

DC fast charging

DC fast charging is a way to charge electric cars much faster than regular charging, so you can get back on the road quickly.

Car

Volkswagen Id

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a new electric van that looks like the old VW Microbus, which many people loved. It's designed to be roomy and practical while being good for the environment. People are excited about it because it combines a classic look with modern electric technology.

Term

electric range

Electric range is how far an electric car can go before it needs to be charged again. The ID. Buzz can go about 234 miles on a full charge, which is okay but not the longest distance available.

Car

Hyundai Ioniq 9

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a new electric SUV that runs on batteries instead of gas. It's designed to be eco-friendly and has a modern look. People are talking about it because it's part of a trend towards cars that are better for the environment.

Car

Hyundai Ioniq

Term

front fascia

The front fascia is the front part of a car, including things like the grille and headlights. It's important for how the car looks and how it moves through the air.

Car

Jeep Wagoneer

The Jeep Wagoneer S is a new electric SUV from Jeep that looks like a modern version of their classic Wagoneer. It's designed to be spacious and high-tech.

Car

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Term

dual motor setup

A dual motor setup means the car has two electric motors, which helps it drive better, especially in slippery conditions. It usually makes the car faster and more stable.

Term

trail rated

'Trail rated' means the vehicle is built to handle tough off-road conditions, like rocky trails or steep hills. It's a badge of honor for Jeep vehicles that can perform well in those situations.

Car

Kia EV6

The Kia EV6 is a new electric car that looks cool and can drive a long way on a single charge. It's made by Kia, a brand that's becoming more popular for electric vehicles. People talk about it because it's a good option for those looking to switch to an electric car.

Car

Polestar 3

The Polestar 3 is a new electric SUV made by a brand that's part of Volvo. It aims to be a high-quality car that looks good and is good for the environment. People are interested in it because it combines luxury with being eco-friendly.

Car

Toyota Grand Highlander

The Toyota Grand Highlander is a bigger SUV that can fit more people and stuff inside. It has three rows of seats, which is great for families or anyone who needs extra room. People like it because it's useful for carrying a lot of passengers or gear.

Car

Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage is a small SUV that looks nice and has a lot of features to make driving easier. It's been updated recently to keep up with other cars in its class, making it a good choice for people who want a reliable and stylish vehicle. Many people talk about it because it's a great option for everyday use.

Car

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that has a lot of room inside and is great for families or anyone who needs space. It's popular because it's reliable and can handle different types of weather and roads. People often talk about it when discussing good options for a family car.

Car

Honda Crv

LIVE

Normally, I give you a review of one car.

This time, it's 15, kind of, sort of.

I'm Tom Volk in Ridgefield, Washington, at the Alina Xeno & Resort for Drive Revolution,

which is put on by the Northwest Automotive Press Association.

This is not a manufacturer's event.

This is sponsored by journalists.

There are 15 writers, and we're driving 15 cars.

He drives every vehicle, and then we score at the end to let you know what's good.

Drive Revolution is a competition, and WAPA journalists will be giving out five trophies.

Best ice vehicle, best hybrid, best electric vehicle, best value, and best overall.

Drive Revolution is kind of automotive speed-gating.

We only get about a half an hour in each vehicle.

This will not be my best photography piece.

Check out my car reviews for that.

But I will be able to give you a lot of good information,

so you know what you might want to test drive.

Let's start with the internal combustion engine segment.

In most of the world, this car is the MX-5.

In America, we refuse to call it anything but the Miata.

And if you think about it, that's an acronym.

Miata is always the answer, and it is.

Full disclosure, I own a first generation, and it's always joy.

Like all Miatas, the fourth generation is like a jetpack.

It's a car that you wear.

Handling is direct and sporty without dislodging loose fillings.

And the six-speed manual transmission remains the best you can buy, regardless of price.

There's a retractable hardtop version, but for the full open roadster experience,

the softtop is best.

Trust me, I know this.

It's not overly powerful, but it's quick enough.

And sorry, big and tall people, this isn't for you.

Some of the ergonomics are a little wonky, and owners need to pack lightly.

One of the older platforms at Drive Revolution, it's aged like a fine wine.

My vote for most improved would be the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan.

This is a very nice vehicle.

It's the only ICE SUV in the competition.

It has great exterior design that looks more expensive than its price tag.

Same with the interior, this being the top trim.

It has a Volvo vibe about it.

This is real wood veneer.

Tiguan is roomy, a family of four will find it comfortable and spacious.

And the driving dynamics are top notch in class.

Until the more powerful engine shows up, enthusiasts will find it light on power.

And there is no option for a hybrid powertrain, at least in the U.S.

But as I said in my full review, Farfegnuggen is back.

Toyota's Corolla is known for miles per gallon.

This one, smiles per gallon.

It's the GR Corolla, and it's a hoot to drive.

It's hardly your on Edna's Toyota.

All-wheel drive with adjustable power bias, front to rear, check.

Turbocharged three-cylinder engine, pumping out 300 horsepower.

You got it, Toyota.

A carbon fiber roof lowers the center of gravity.

And man, this thing can carve up the twisties.

Steering is as direct as a New Yorker in a hurry.

Want a manual six-speed gearbox?

It's a thing and saves two grand over this crisp eight-speed automatic.

Also, there are four doors and a usable back seat.

Chassis enhancements mean the cargo hold loses some functionality.

The cabin is a bit basic and dark, and the ride quality is stiff,

the least comfortable in the drive revolution competition.

But this would be a blast on the track.

Moving to battery electrics.

If there was a trophy for the electric vehicle least like an electric vehicle,

it would certainly go to the Dodge Charger Daytona because, you know, it's a Dodge.

Have you heard about the Fratsonic performance sounds?

They can be turned off, but...

Where's the fun in that?

This is the Frat Boy at Drive Revolution.

It's an automotive party.

It looks like a muscle car, launches like a muscle car,

but handles better because of the heavy battery in the floor.

Too many reviews focus on the fake engine note.

Not enough on how engaging this is to drive.

It has excellent steering, and as equipped, there's Brembo brakes,

and all the driving parameters are adjustable.

Plus, the cabin is a fun place to work from.

Solid materials and dramatic ambient lighting.

While the back seat is roomy,

folks in the family way will want to get the four-door.

This looks like a coupe, but Charger is a usable hatchback.

Trips to lows will be a cinch.

Optimized for power, the 241-mile range is on the low side.

Like many modern vehicles, there aren't many hard controls.

And this is a big boy.

Personally, I'd prefer this in 9-10th scale.

But hey, Dodge doesn't do modest.

If the Charger is a little too boy racer for you,

this might be the answer.

The Lucid Air recently updated.

This has been a Drive Revolution winner in the past.

For good reason.

The sheet metal is fresh, clean, and timeless.

I suspect it'll still draw eyeballs 20 years from now.

Cabin is soothing and, no pun intended, airy.

Light on plastic-y stuff, heavy on the natural.

Lucid keeps updating the air.

The software is improved.

And DreamDrive's semi-autonomous tech is now hands-free,

like BlueCruise and SuperCruise.

Air charges extremely fast

and has the excellent efficiency that Lucid is known for.

The back seat is the automotive equivalent of a California king.

There's loads of cargo room too.

The only reason you'd need the gravity SUV

would be a higher seating position and three rows of seats.

My biggest gripe is adjusting the mirrors

and steering wheel through the touchscreen.

Call me old-fashioned.

Too many EV shoppers overlook this sedan.

This is the 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT all-wheel drive.

There are some changes.

That's something that Ford doesn't get credit for in this vehicle.

For example, the shifter has moved from down here

up to here, save space on the console.

And BlueCruise 1.5, which is true hands-free driving,

now does automatic lane changes.

The GT's 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds will engage the driver,

but won't enrage neighbors since it's swift,

but silent.

That stealth factor is underappreciated with EVs.

This is one of the few electrics that has both loads of room

in the front seat and storage in the nose.

More powerful than standard Mach-Es,

the dual-motor GT still manages a solid 280 miles of rated range.

Pretty good.

And it's happy to haul the family and do the chores

when not ripping through curvy pavement.

Mach-E's charge speed at 150 kilowatts is an average,

so are cabin materials considering the price.

Traditionalists are still hung up on the Mustang name,

but times change and the Mach-E outsells the Ice Mustang.

Just saying.

Next up, the 2026 Genesis GV60 newly refreshed,

my nominee for most dramatic shift lever.

Okay, it's not really a lever.

It's kind of a crystal ball.

Also, most stylish key.

Speaking of style, the 60 has its own unique look,

a little bulbous and this quirky line,

a reminder that the stylish electrified GV70 has been 86.

Once inside the Genesis, it wows with impressive materials and accents.

It wins the trophy for blue interiors hands down.

If we gave one, it really pops.

Most automakers would call it a day inside the cabin.

Genesis commits to the hue all the way to the cargo hold,

which has a lot of space.

This is the performance all-wheel drive trim

and built on the EGMP architecture,

which means it DC fast charges quickly

and is rated to travel 252 miles and that's a smidge low.

Genesis GV60 is quick, nimble, and sporty in a luxurious way.

The Volkswagen ID Buzz.

Everybody loves the look of the Volkswagen ID Buzz.

This machine makes anyone within 200 feet smile.

Could be the nostalgia, might be the minimalist styling.

They're seating for up to seven.

Headroom is epic in case you're transporting NBA players

and anyone tall or small will appreciate the electrochromic dimming roof.

Much of the buzz will keep owners in their happy place

and not everything.

Range on this single motor first edition is modest at 234 miles.

Physical controls are at a premium.

Getting into this is a step up

and the seats don't fold into the floor.

Though they are removable, you could haul a fridge in here doing that.

The ID Buzz has personality.

It's a van that people will want to be seen in.

Maybe you need three rows but don't want a van,

which seems to be a pretty common take these days.

In that case, the all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 9 might fit the bill.

It's sister.

The key ED9 looks completely different.

Hyundai takes a more formal luxury path with the Ioniq 9.

Interesting touches are these flourishes

and check out the inlaid badge treatments.

It's very upscale.

There's the usual pixel treatment found on all Ioniqs,

even subtle squares within the front fascia.

This top calligraphy trim is not inexpensive.

At nearly $80,000 has tested.

And nitpicking, this panel looks like a Monet painting of crumpled tinfoil.

The 9 is a very deep car that will require a long review to truly explain,

but it's roomy and flexible.

Charges fast with a native Naxport and even with dual motor all-wheel drive

has an impressive 311 miles of range.

I think folks don't realize that Jeep has a fully electric vehicle.

This is off people's radar screen.

Wagoneer S, not the Swagoneer, has a grand Cherokee from the future vibe.

The grille is unlike any seven-slot design Jeep has executed before.

This moves with a dual motor 4ye setup but is not trail rated,

so stay away from the Rubicon trail with the CV.

The range wouldn't be an issue.

It's rated at 294 miles.

Jeep has brought the limited trim.

It looks good in here with subtle ambient lighting strips and supportive seats.

The back seat is accommodating.

The trunk is big, especially if you count the space under the floor.

Some people don't like shiny black panels in their vehicles

and I long for the days when hard buttons were plentiful.

Quiet, comfortable and powerful, Wagoneer S feels less like a Jeep, more like a Chrysler.

And shouldn't it be called Wagoneer E?

Kia EV6 has always been one of the better mainstream electric vehicle choices.

It's actually been around for a while and has gotten its mid-cycle refresh.

The changes in back are subtle.

It's more noticeable up front, especially the Kia StarMap lighting elements

found on the rest of its lineup.

The battery is slightly larger.

This dual motor GT line trim is rated to go 270 miles on a juicing

and it's entertaining on the road with excellent handling and brisk acceleration,

zero to 60 in under five seconds easy.

Like Ioniq 5, it uses the EGMP platform known for its rapid DC fast-charging ability.

There's a NAX port now.

The driving position is raised up a bit.

The sleek exterior design masks its height.

EV6 is roomy and the space is used efficiently,

though I find the cabin a bit dark with average visibility, especially out the back.

I did a full review of the Polestar 3 a while back.

Since then, a lot has changed.

It is now made in the United States and the software is so much better.

The 3 is assembled in South Carolina, thanks to its ties to Volvo.

That's evident in the design DNA.

This is a looker.

The build quality is noticeably improved over the Chinese built 3 I first profiled.

A Polestar rep on hand demoed the improvements made to the software

and sure enough, things are better.

Great graphics remain.

I still feel some functions are too deep in the menu,

but it can be customized and I didn't have the time to futz with it.

Materials have a techie look, love the visual pop of these,

and the seats get my vote for best at drive revolution.

Style and performance don't come cheap though.

The sticker on this is nearly $92,000.

The highest at the competition, angle hard.

All of the hybrids, HEVs at drive revolution are family oriented.

This is the Toyota Grand Highlander Nightshade Edition.

It's got three rows for efficiently moving a large clan.

Grand Highlander gets the job done.

There's definitely more usable passenger and cargo space compared to the standard Highlander.

Available with an ice powertrain, I feel the all wheel drive hybrid is worth the upgrade,

if only for the extra refinement.

Nightshade's black accents are distinctive and while the cabin is spacious,

the atmosphere is dark and the materials are monotone.

Check out a lighter colorway if that bothers you.

The price is getting up there at nearly 57 grand as tested.

On average, every gallon of gas will get you 34 miles down the road.

Plus, Toyota is known for its tried and true hybrid systems.

There is a more powerful max hybrid powertrain, but it's not as efficient.

Box, box, it's a very efficient shape.

It's the reason why Amazon uses boxes,

and the reason why Hyundai uses the square shape for the Santa Fe.

This is the hybrid.

Hyundai and hybrid start with the letter H, and there must be at least

a hundred of those consonants in the design.

Forgetting to the roof rack, this grab handle is located just over the back tire, very clever.

This is a three-row machine packed with features, lots of cubbies,

cupholders, dual phone chargers, and a surprising amount of physical controls for a modern vehicle.

It all looks more expensive than the price might suggest.

I found the driving dynamics to be especially refined.

It doesn't hurt that the EPA average is 35 miles per gallon with all-wheel drive.

At 5'9", I'm actually okay in the way back with belts for two,

and there's a climate zone and power in the calligraphy trim that Hyundai brought.

I get that some shoppers will find the square shape not to be hip,

but the Santa Fe is an impressive package.

Kia Sportage gets updated for 2026.

There are three powertrains, ice, plug-in hybrid,

and the one that we're driving, the standard hybrid.

The mid-cycle refresh keeps Sportage competitive

in the toughest slot of the automotive biz, the compact SUV segment.

It's up against CR-V and RAV4, among many others.

This SX Prestige is the top trim level and the most popular at over 50% of sales, says Kia.

It gives Sportage a premium feel inside.

There's a decent amount of room for passengers.

Despite the name, the driving experience is more comfort-oriented than athletic.

And know that choosing all-wheel drive over front drive

drops the fuel economy average significantly to 35mpg.

And there's this switchable control panel that's always in the wrong setting for me.

But Sportage is definitely worth a look.

All the cars have been driven and the results are in.

In the best internal combustion engine category,

the winner is the Toyota GR Corolla Premium Plus

with Mazda MX-5 Miata Club a close second.

For best battery electric vehicle,

Newapa riders hand the trophy to the Hyundai Ionic 9 Calligraphy.

Runner up is the Dodge Charger Daytona.

The best hybrid award is handed to the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy.

Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige takes second place in this category.

Best value?

That goes to the Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line with Kia Sportage Hybrid in second place.

And the winner of the Newapa Drive Revolution Vehicle of the Year award goes to

the Hyundai Ionic 9 Calligraphy with Lucid Air Pure as the runner up.

Drive Revolution takes a lot of work to put on, special thanks to our sponsors,

Aline Casino & Resort, Drive Shop and Page 1 that do the logistics and heavy lifting.

The manufacturers that took the time and expense to bring their vehicles to Drive Revolution.

Thanks for watching.

Hey, a reminder that my car reviews are a lot different.

Check those out.

People seem to like them.

Subscribe to the channel.

I'm on all the major social media platforms.

And if you have any questions, leave it in the comments.

I'm really good about getting back to people.

That's Driven.

I'm Tom Volk.

About this episode

Fifteen automotive writers gathered at the Drive Revolution event to evaluate a diverse lineup of vehicles, competing for various awards. Highlights include the spirited Toyota GR Corolla, the stylish Volkswagen Tiguan, and the innovative Hyundai Ioniq 9, which took home the Vehicle of the Year award. Each writer shares insights on performance, design, and practicality, providing a comprehensive overview of the best options in internal combustion, hybrid, and electric categories. The episode captures the excitement of testing multiple cars in a competitive setting, offering valuable information for prospective buyers.

0-60 time BlueCruise Brembo brakes carbon fiber center of gravity chassis enhancements DC fast charging DreamDrive dual-motor setup eight-speed automatic

Original notes

Take 15 vehicles, 15 automotive writers and two days of testing and you have Drive Revolution. Put on by the Northwest Automotive Press Association (or NWAPA), it's a competition to find the best ICE, HEV and BEV vehicles. NWAPA members also vote on best value and choose the NWAPA Drive Revolution Vehicle of the Year.

Here's the list of competitors-

2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack

2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT

2026 Genesis GV60

2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 Calligraphy Design

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy

2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Limited

2025 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD

2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige AWD

2025 Lucid Air Pure

2025 Mazda MX-5 Club

2025 Polestar 3 Dual Motor

2025 Toyota GR Corolla Premium Plus

2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Nightshade

2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line 4MOTION

2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz 1st Edition

Special thanks to the manufacturers that took the time to bring their vehicles and representatives to Ilani Casino Resort in Ridgefield, WA. Special thanks to the staff of DriveShop and Page one for logistics and organization. A shout out to John Vincent, Nik Miles, J.R. Chocco, Bengt Halvorson and Kristen Brown for their support.

Driven Car Reviews

Tom Voelk

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