Looking for a luxury midsize SUV that lets you traverse a stream and navigate boulders on your drive? The 2023 Defender is an off-road beast and also well-mannered for driving in the city. It’s loaded with features and tech and has robust performance, but it’s not as opulent as some rivals and fuel efficiency isn’t…
The Outlander is a three-row compact crossover from Mitsubishi. It’s not top of mind for most drivers but it’s a decent vehicle and a vast improvement over older models. The 2023 Outlander has an upscale interior, comfortable ride, ample cargo space, good fuel economy, and lots of standard features and tech, all at a relatively…
Updated 3/21/2023 PORTLAND, Ore., – Pump prices are ticking down in most states, driven by crude oil prices that fell to their lowest level in more a year and a half. For the week, the national average for regular unleaded dips three cents to $3.44 a gallon. The Oregon average slips three cents to $3.88.…
The Honda CR-V Hybrid gets a makeover for 2023 and is one of the top small hybrid SUVs. It has peppy handling, good fuel economy, an upscale cabin, lots of standard features, and plenty of cargo space. Base Price: $38,600As Tested: $39,845Horsepower: 203Mileage: 40 mpg city/34 mpg highway/37 mpg combined The CR-V Hybrid was launched…
Updated 3/14/2023 PORTLAND, Ore., – Gas prices continue their upward trek in many states as the annual switch to summer-blend fuel puts upward pressure on prices. However, the price pop could be winding down as demand and the global cost of crude oil have fallen. For the week, the national average for regular unleaded adds…
The NX 450+ is the plug-in hybrid version of Lexus’ compact luxury SUV. It has the smooth ride Lexus is known for, comes well-equipped with lots of features and tech, and can go up to 37 miles on all-electric power. Once the gas engine kicks in, regular hybrid mode delivers an average of 36 mpg.…
Updated 3/7/2023 PORTLAND, Ore., – Gas prices are rising across the country, mostly due to the seasonal switch to summer-blend gas. This blend is designed to lower emissions during warmer weather and is more expensive to produce. Increased demand for gas is also putting upward pressure on prices. For the week, the national average for…
Wagons are versatile. They have the space and versatility of an SUV but often better handling and fuel efficiency. The 2023 Volvo V60 Cross Country is a sophisticated luxury wagon with lively driving dynamics that’s loaded with features and tech. Definitely not like the station wagons of the past! Base Price: $54,100 As Tested: $63,585…
PORTLAND, Ore., – A new survey from AAA shows that Americans are becoming more apprehensive about fully self-driving cars. At the same time, people are very interested in partially-automated vehicle technologies, which are widely available on newer vehicles. This year’s survey finds that 68% are afraid of fully autonomous vehicles. This is a 13% jump…
West Coast Prices Continue to Edge Up, due in part to Switch to Summer-blend Gas Updated 2/28/2023 PORTLAND, Ore., – While most states are seeing small to moderate declines this week, Oregon and other West Coast states as well as some states in the Great Lakes area are seeing pump prices climb. The increases on…