Driven Car Reviews

2027 Rivian R2 Performance First Drive- When Smaller is a Big Deal.

The wait is finally over. The all-new 2027 Rivian R2 is one of the most anticipated electric vehicles on the market, and I got behind the wheel of the flagship Dual Motor Performance model during a test drive in Bellevue, Washington. This is not my normal video review. It's a consumer test drive much like you would take, only a lot more cameras stuck all around the vehicle. In this first-drive review, Rivian's Dan Lake walks us through the new R2 before I hit the road for a real-world drive and share my impressions. I'll also cover pricing, range, charging, cargo space, interior features, off-road capability, and what separates R2 from its larger sibling, the R1S. The R2 Performance packs 656 horsepower and 609 lb-ft of torque, offers an EPA-estimated 330 miles of range, and starts in the high-$50,000 range. Rivian hopes this smaller, more affordable SUV will bring the brand to a much larger audience.

2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness Review. Real Off-Road Capability or Just the Look?

Subaru's Forester is back with the Wilderness treatment the brand is known for. There's extra ground clearance, an off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, upgraded cooling, and of course, Subaru's signature symmetrical all-wheel drive. In this in-depth review, Tom Voelk tests the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness both on road and off pavement to see how much real capability it adds — and what you give up in the process. As always, this review is about the good, the bad, and the mildly annoying.

2026 Nissan Leaf Review- The Affordable EV That Finally Gets It Right

The 2026 Nissan Leaf is all-new and more refined. Plus it's more affordable than most EVs on sale today. Starting at $31,500 (yeah, including shipping), it delivers real-world range, upgraded tech, and the everyday comfort Nissan is known for — without drifting into luxury-car pricing. After living with the Leaf for a full week, I dig into real-world range, charging speeds, interior usability, ride quality, and how it stacks up as a practical electric vehicle. The third-generation Leaf is so improved, Nissan could've given it a new name.  Remember, Leaf was a finalist for the NACTOY 2026 North American Utility of the Year.

2026 Subaru Outback- More Space, Less Wagon

  The Subaru Outback is new for 2026 and it's a solid choice for brand loyalists (and they are a faithful bunch). Will current owners return for another Outback now that it has moved away from the wagon look and embraced a more SUV-like design?   In this full review of the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT, I test the turbocharged 2.4-liter Boxer engine, evaluate the new interior, improved infotainment system, EyeSight Highway Hands-Free Assist, cargo space, ride quality, towing capability, and off-road performance. In other words, pretty much everything. A bonus- some thoughts on the rugged Outback Wilderness after driving it at Mudfest 2026. The new Outback offers more cargo room, improved technology, great visibility, and increased utility. But the styling is proving... polarizing.

2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS is Roomy Rapid Transit

Some sporty vehicles are more show than go. The 2025 Chevy Blazer EV SS earns its performance letters but stays chill. With dual motor AWD, it delivers up to 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. That should get the kids to school. And the enhanced suspension keeps it under control without a punishing ride.   Tom Voelk travels to North Carolina and the Ten Tenths Motor Club in the shadow of Charlotte Motor Speedway to check out the SS on road and track. And welcome Tedward to the drive!   CORRECTION- The Blazer EV SS Tedward and I drove retails for $62,490 with destination and Performance Package before any tax incentives. Not sure why I gave it a $10K discount while reading my notes. Tom attended a General Motors program to produce this review. Opinions remain his own.

Scout Motors Traveler and Terra Full Tour Inside and Out

Have a deposit down on a Scout Motors Traveler or Terra? Maybe you're curious about what Volkswagen's revival of the brand will look like. For sure they're packed with heritage. Team Scout brought its prototype vehicles to Mudfest 2026 to show the members of the Northwest Automotive Press Association what to expect when the Traveler SUV and Terra pickup start arriving in 2028. Tom Voelk offers up loads of visuals that show what the vehicle should look like, inside and out.

A Cherokee That Parks Itself? Testing the Jeep ParkSense

The new 2026 Jeep Cherokee has a lot tech in it. For starters, a hybrid powertrain comes standard. And ParkSense self-parking technology is available in the top trim Overland version as an option. Self-parking systems are not new, but the Jeep tech is especially easy to figure out. It works when parallel plus forward and backward perpendicular parking. You may not need it on the trail but, for the spatially challenged, it could be handy in urban situations. We've all wished this tech on those who hold up traffic while they try to wedge their vehicle into a slot. Awkwardly.  Tom Voelk gives it a try without looking at the owner's manual, because that would be cheating.

Ford Mach-E GT is the Fastest Mustang Mortals Can Buy. No V8. No Apologies.

The Mustang Mach-E is the quickest Mustang money can buy (unless you have the funds for a GTD). Unleashing 480 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque (or 700 lb-ft with the $995 Performance Upgrade), GT's standard dual-motor AWD snaps off 0-60 runs in 3.3 seconds. This electric SUV/hatchback/Mustang adjacent machine accelerates most with the best. It goes around a corner impressively too. In this full review, I check out the 2025 Mach-E GT (2026's are pretty much the same) in classic Pacific Northwest rain.

The Automaker That Takes Design Very Seriously? Kia. Surprised? Here's Why...

Think great automotive design is only for high-end luxury and performance vehicles? Not necessary. Starting 20 years ago after stealing Peter Schreyer from the Volkswagen Group, Kia has quietly built an impressive portfolio of original award-winning automotive design. Tom Voelk travels to Milan, Italy for Design Week 2026 to show how the company is serious about staying true to its concept car designs. Kia's Global Head of Design, Karim Habib (formerly of BMW, Infiniti and Mercedes Benz) offers interesting insight, stuff you may not have thought about when it comes to the way your car looks. Plus, a close look at the Vision Meta Turismo concept. Tom was attended a Hyundai/Kia event to produce this story. All editorial content is his own opinion.

A New Car for Under $24,000? Check Out the 2026 Nissan Sentra.

Can't afford luxury transportation? The new 9th generation Nissan Sentra offers the luxury of transportation, starting at $23,845 (yup, with destination). That's something of a unicorn in today's new-car market.  Tom Voelk checks out a fully loaded SR at just under $32K, but know that all Sentras come with the same engine, transmission, and suspension. For buyers that need the peace of mind a new car with a warranty brings, Sentra might be the answer. Of course, there are others to cross shop- Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia K4, Mazda3, Toyota Corolla and Volkswagen Jetta.  Pro tip, a loaded SL is the sweet spot at $29,235.     

2027 Hyundai IONIQ 3 Brings Fun, Practicality and the Art of Steel… to the Rest of the World

The new 2027 Hyundai IONIQ 3 has a lot going for it. It's affordable (starting at €30,000), roomier than a car this size has any right to be, and debuts Hyundai's new Art of Steel design language. But Americans will look longingly at it from across the pond since it's (for now at least) not coming the Land of the Free. Though parts of it, like the new design approach and the Android Automotive-based Pleos Connect infotainment system will show up on our shores. Tom Voelk travels to Milan, Italy for Design Week to check out what we in the U.S. can't have.   Tom attended a Hyundai sponsored event to produce this video. Opinions remain his own. 

2026 Jeep Cherokee Is Back... as a Hybrid

Built on Stellantis' new STLA Large platform, the all-new Cherokee is now hybrid-only. My how it's grown! It's aiming squarely at heavy hitters like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage. With standard all-wheel drive, significantly improved fuel economy, and a smooth hybrid system, it's clearly targeting mainstream buyers—not just off-road enthusiasts. And it's very roomy.

The 2026 Trailseeker is the Perfect Subaru For High Gas Prices

The new Subaru Trailseeker has Outback practicality, EV efficiency, and enough off-road credibility to handle the forest service roads you and your dog will point it at. In this full review, I break it all down- performance, range, charging, interior tech, and how it compares to its twin—the Toyota bZ Woodland. Yes, they share a lot. But Trailseeker might be the smarter buy. With standard AWD (hey, it's a Subaru), 375 horsepower and a starting price under $46,000 (about the same price as an Outback), this is the quickest Subaru you can buy right now. But is it the best one for everyday drivers? If you're considering an EV but still want Subaru practicality (and room for the dog), this might be the one to watch.

The Hyundai IONIQ 6 N Turns it Up to 11

Hyundai has made it official- the IONIQ 6 N is coming to the North American market in late spring / early summer of 2026. Is it one better than the legendary 5N? There's certainly reason to believe that. 6N gets upgraded performance electronics and a new suspension for a lower center of gravity. Plus it's more aerodynamic. Tom Voelk travels to Hyundai Design North America in Irvine, CA to talk to Hyundai's Michael Evanoff to discover what's different when it comes to the high-performance IONIQ 6N.  Hyundai provided travel to California for this video.

2026 Chevy Traverse Z71- Big Space. Big Tech. 4-Cylinder Engine?

The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse competes in crowded 3-row family SUV segment. It goes up against heavy hitters like Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Toyota Grand Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, and the upcoming second generation Kia Telluride. Traverse delivers huge space, solid comfort, good tech, and the option of GM's excellent Super Cruise. There is that turbo 4-cylinder sound though. In this review, I cover the off-road flavored Z71 that lands at $57K as tested. Here are positives, drawbacks, real-world comfort, cargo room, tow ratings, and whether the turbo-four delivers enough grunt (and grace) for a big family hauler.

Hyundai Crater

Honda Prelude is Back With a Retro Name and a Forward Attitude

After missing in action for over two decades, Honda Prelude returns as a performance 2+2 with a hybrid powertrain. Scheduled to hit showrooms in late 2025, the 2026 Prelude gets Civic Type R's dual-axis strut front suspension, four-piston Brembo aluminum front calipers, and an adaptive suspension. Linear Shift Control simulates cog swaps plus there's a new S+ Shift mode. Tom Voelk previews Honda's grand touring-oriented sport hybrid.

2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ is All-Electric Luxury Done The American Way

There's nothing quite like the 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ. Fully electric, it slays range anxiety with an EPA-rated range of 460 miles and can take on 100 miles of travel in just 10 minutes. Efficient? No. The IQ achieves its mission the good old fashioned American way- throw a lot of resources at it (the pack is rated at 205kWh for starters). It's large, it's heavy and it's polarizing. But darned if it isn't impressive. Tom Voelk checks out a Premium Sport trim dipped in Deep Space Metallic paint and Harbor Blue cabin. At 155 grand as tested it's a pricey machine, but easily half the price of a Celestiq for the glass half full crowd.

First Look! The All-New 2027 Second Generation Kia Telluride!

Hard to believe it's been some six years since the Kia Telluride hit the scene. Apparently internally, it's been known as the "Selluride" since it's such a hot commodity, dealers can't keep them in stock, even though production has been increased every year since it's launch. It's been a huge win for Kia and has helped to reset the brand's image. So gen two is very important. 

All New 2026 Nissan Leaf is Improved in Every Way

The Nissan Leaf was an EV pioneer but it's been long in the tooth for years. The all-new third generation is improved in every way with up to 303 miles of range, faster charging speed and a liquid cooled battery pack. Plus NACS! It's affordable, starting at under $30,000. Tom Voelk and Autoblog's Cole Attisha check out a loaded Platinum + trim with features found only on premium vehicles just a few years ago. It's not overly fast, but it is a quiet comfortable cruiser with new found style.       

Best Vehicles of 2025! The Driven Top 11 List!

Automotive writer Tom Voelk drove over 100 vehicles in 2025. What are his favorites? These 11, a wide mix of cars, trucks, and SUVs with ICE, hybrid and EV powertrains. Here's Tom's year in review as he goes over what he enjoyed the most. Many of these are finalists for the North American Utility, Car and Truck of the Year Award. And many are affordable with nearly half available under $40,000 well equipped. Though a few crest well over $100K.

Jeep Cherokee is Back With Hybrid Power for 2026

It's been a few years since Cherokee cast a shadow in Jeep showrooms. Coming in late 2025, the 6th generation rights that wrong. Powered by a turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid making 210 horsepower, it should average 37 miles on a gallon of gas. Bigger and roomier (30% more cargo room for starters) it gets a square-jawed design for those that loved the original look. Tom Voelk previews the 2026 Cherokee that looks to take on RAV4, CR-V, Tucson, and Sportage.

The Ford Maverick Lobo is Party up Front, Business in Back

If the mullet is business in front party in the back, the new 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo reverses that. It's a sportier version of Ford compact trucklette. The 4 ½ foot bed will help to get the chores done. For a good time on twisty roads Lobo gets a specially tuned suspension, dual clutch torque vectoring rear differential and specific Lobo drive mode for tight autocross courses. Tom Voelk checks out a well-equipped model that MSRPs for some $43K. Yeah, Maverick isn't the bargain it once was.