*Prices may vary depending on location, vehicle condition, and other aspects.

Chevrolet Bolt EV

Leading the charge in affordability, the Chevrolet Bolt EV is an excellent option for drivers looking for an electric vehicle that offers value and range. With a starting price that dips below $30,000 at your local Chevrolet dealer, this compact hatchback provides up to 259 miles of driving on a single charge, making it ideal for both city commuting and weekend road trips. The Bolt’s roomy interior, intuitive tech features, and impressive cargo space make it a versatile option for those who want a practical yet fun-to-drive EV.

Even though the Chevrolet Bolt EV isn’t currently in production, it’s still a smart buy if you can find a used or certified pre-owned model at a Chevrolet dealer. The Bolt is known for its reliability, so even if it is only a few years old, it remains one of the best budget-friendly EVs on the market.

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf has long been a popular choice for those venturing into the world of electric vehicles. With models available well under $30,000, the Leaf offers up to 226 miles of range, depending on the configuration. While it may not boast as much range as some competitors, the Leaf’s affordability, user-friendly technology, and strong reliability make it a fantastic option for budget-conscious drivers. Its compact size is perfect for city driving, and with a variety of trims available, there’s a Leaf to suit just about anyone’s needs.

Kia Soul EV

The Kia Soul SUV has always been known for its quirky design and spacious interior, but the electric version brings a whole new level of appeal. Priced affordably in the used market, the Kia Soul EV offers a fun driving experience with around 243 miles of range. Its boxy design allows for ample cargo space, and the Soul EV comes packed with advanced tech features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and active safety features. This makes it a strong contender for families and anyone who values a bit more room in their EVs.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a great option for those seeking an affordable yet stylish EV. Its futuristic design, spacious interior, and competitive driving range make it a standout in the EV market. Even in the pre-owned category, a lightly used Ioniq 5 can be found for under $30k, offering cutting-edge features and excellent performance. With its fast-charging capability and a range of up to 303 miles, this vehicle proves that affordable EVs can be both high-tech and highly
capable.

Toyota bZ4X

For those who want the reliability of a Toyota combined with the benefits of electric power, the Toyota bZ4X offers a great solution. This compact SUV provides an impressive range of up to 252 miles and includes Toyota’s well-known safety and driver assistance technologies. While it’s a newer model, you can still find pre-owned versions hovering just below the $30,000 price point, making it a solid option for anyone interested in a long-term investment in EV technology.

Go Green; Save Green With These Affordable EVs

Affordable electric vehicles are no longer a rarity, and options like the Chevrolet Bolt EV prove you can get a reliable, efficient, and fun-to-drive EV without spending a fortune. Whether you visit a Chevrolet dealer or explore other brands, there’s a wide range of budget-friendly EVs that will meet your needs while helping you reduce your carbon footprint.

The post Affordable EVs Under $30k first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

The post Affordable EVs Under $30k appeared first on Ride4Watts.com.

Mechanics Weigh In On a Long-Standing Debate

The Toyota Camry and Honda Accord are popular mid-size sedans with reputations for quality and reliability. Drivers have been arguing over which is better for years, but few mechanics have weighed in on the question. Now, that’s changed.

The Results Are In

One TikToker, AccurateAuto, surveyed all six mechanics at a local Colorado shop, asking whether they preferred the Toyota Camry or the Honda Accord. As the employees passed around the camera, the answer was surprisingly clear.

Five of the six mechanics surveyed chose the Toyota Camry, while only one picked the Honda Accord.

While those results show a clear winner among professional mechanics, it’s still a close call for many drivers and even some mechanics. The last one surveyed in the video points out, “Those are really close to the same,” before tossing his lot in with Toyota.

What’s the Difference?

Both the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord are top-rated vehicles. Their designers target similar audiences, and the two mid-size sedans fulfill essentially the same purposes. So, what’s the difference?

First, as Car and Driver reports, the Camry has a broader range of engine options. The Toyota mid-size sedan also has available all-wheel drive, while the Accord is front-wheel-drive only. Mechanics describe the Camry as more reliable, but some drivers find the Accord provides a more exciting experience behind the wheel.

For some drivers, the question of looks plays a prominent role. The Honda Accord has sharper lines that create a more modern style, which was implemented during its 2023 redesign. The Toyota is set for a redesign in 2024, so no one knows what the next generation will bring style-wise.

The Toyota Camry is a clear winner for most when it comes to interior comfort. While both have spacious cabins, the Camry features higher-quality materials.

So Is the Toyota Camry Really a Better Car?

Everyone is entitled to their opinion about the battle of the mid-sized sedans, and few people are shy about sharing them. All it takes is a quick look at the comments section of AccurateAuto’s video to see that the debate rages on.

Some brand enthusiasts cite impressive longevity in their Honda Accords despite a general tendency for the Camrys to be more reliable. Mechanics typically agree on a professional level that the Camry is the better car, but some find the Accord more fun to drive.

Choosing between the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord is a personal decision. Drivers who prioritize style and a fun driving experience may be willing to trade some comfort and reliability. Most agree that they’ll like the Accord.

Vehicle owners looking for the most reliable family sedan have different priorities. They generally prefer the Camry. Either option is good for buyers who want a practical, high-quality car with advanced safety features and plenty of room for the whole family.

The post Toyota Camry vs. Honda Accord first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

The post Toyota Camry vs. Honda Accord appeared first on Ride4Watts.com.

This isn’t an award to be taken lightly. The council takes the assessment of more than 1,200 available cars in 2024, measuring the pollutants generated and emissions and ensuring the vehicles exceed all standards. This plug-in hybrid Toyota edged out the greenest electric vehicle, which is the Lexus RZ 300e. Its kind of interesting that Toyota-branded vehicles hit these top two spots.

This Prius offers plenty of power

Being the greenest car doesn’t mean that the Prius Prime is fun or exciting. Thankfully, the new styling, improved power, and excellent handling tackle that challenge for us. This new version of the Prius Prime uses a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gas engine and electric motor to deliver 220 horsepower. This power is sent to the front wheels, making this car more efficient during the drive.

In addition to excellent power, the Prius Prime can be driven up to 44 miles on electric power, which is an improvement over the 25 miles provided by the previous version.

What does the Toyota Prius Prime SE include?

The SE trim is the base model of this Toyota plug-in hybrid car. To be called the greenest car, the Prius Prime must also be affordable, which means the base model receives this distinction. Also, the XSE and XSE Premium models can only travel up to 39 miles on electric power.

The Toyota Prius Prime SE gives you:

• • Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
    • Forward collision warning with pedestrian detection
    • Low-speed automatic emergency braking
    • Lane-departure warning
    • Lane-keeping assist
    • Lane-change assist
    • Front cross-traffic detection
    • Road sign recognition
    • Adaptive cruise control
    • Automatic high-beam headlights
    • Blind-spot monitoring
    • Rear cross-traffic alerts
    • Rear seat reminder
    • Safe Exit Assist
    • Traffic Jam Assist
  • Bi-LED headlights
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Heated power side mirrors
  • Active grille shutters
  • Smart Key keyless entry
  • Push-button starting
  • Heated tilt/telescoping steering wheel
  • Single-zone climate controls
  • 7-inch digital instrument cluster
  • 8-inch infotainment touchscreen
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • SiriusXM satellite radio
  • Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Rearview monitor
  • Toyota connected services
  • 6-speaker audio system
  • 6 USB-C charge ports

  The only available options for the base SE trim is the front and rear park assist with automatic braking.

  What does the next trim offer?

  Moving up to the XSE trim reduces the electric driving range by five miles but gives you more than the Toyota Prius Prime SE. This middle trim of Toyota’s popular PHEV gives you:

  • 8-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support
  • SofTex simulated leather upholstery
  • Automatic headlights
  • 19-inch wheels
  • Heated front seats
  • Smart Key entry system
  • Folding rear-seat armrest with cupholders
  • Wireless charging pad
  • Auto-dimming interior mirror
  • Front and rear park assist with automatic braking

  The XSE trim provides more options than the base SE model. This middle trim can be had with:

  • Digital Key
  • Fixed glass roof
  • 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen

  Does the XSE Premium trim appeal to you?

  If you want the most equipment available for the Toyota Prius Prime, you’ll skip the SE and XSE trim and head for the XSE Premium. This top trim gives you:

  • Fixed glass roof
  • Power hatchback
  • Driver’s seat memory settings
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Digital Key
  • 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen
  • 8-speaker JBL audio system

  This top trim can also be upgraded with some great options. Some of these are:

  • • Digital rearview camera mirror
    • Heated rear seats
    • Solar-charging roof
    • Advanced Technology Package
      • 360-degree camera
      • Advanced Park self-parking assistant

  The Digital Key is a really cool feature

  Eventually, features like Digital Key will be standard, but for now, you can have this in the top two trims of the Prius Prime. This feature turns your phone into a key and allows you to share access with other drivers. If your friends need to borrow your car, they can, and you get to control how long they have access to your Prius Prime.

  Added electric power from the solar roof

  The top trim can be had with a solar roof that adds enough extra power to the battery to run a few of the items you need to enjoy while driving. This isn’t a replacement for a battery charger for the electric drive system, but it can give you a little more juice for the climate system or lights.

  The Toyota Prius Prime SE is the greenest car offered right now, with the higher trims coming in close to the base model. Will you choose a Prius Prime as your daily driver?

The post Toyota’s New Car Wins the Title for Greenest Car first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

The post Toyota’s New Car Wins the Title for Greenest Car appeared first on Ride4Watts.com.

Hybrid SUVs are becoming increasingly popular, combining the versatility of an SUV with the fuel efficiency of a hybrid powertrain. As new models fill our local dealerships, we can look forward to a host of new hybrid SUVs.

2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid is the king of the compact crossover market, offering a smooth ride, advanced tech features, and excellent storage space. It has a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine delivering 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. It also features a three-mode drive system (ECON/Sport/EV) to help you save fuel or crank up the power.

The 2024 CR-V Hybrid balances performance and efficiency, making it one of the most exciting hybrid SUVs on the market.

2024 BMW X5 Hybrid

The 2024 BMW X5 is a luxury SUV that stands out with its blend of performance and refinement. It has a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, paired with an electric motor that adds even more power. Those who want an SUV with more eco-friendliness can opt for the plug-in hybrid powertrain that allows it to travel up to 30 miles on electric power alone.

This BMW also features a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display. The X5 Hybrid is perfect for green luxury.

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is a larger version of the popular Highlander SUV. This big brother of the Highlander offers more space and comfort for passengers and cargo. It has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors for extra oomph. This rig’s hybrid system delivers up to 36 mpg combined.

You’ll love the 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital rearview mirror, and a JBL sound system. The Grand Highlander Hybrid brings Toyota comfort to a larger package.

Hybrid SUVs Offer the Best of Both Worlds

With their blend of efficiency, performance, comfort, and versatility, hybrid SUVs like the Honda CR-V Hybrid, BMW X5 Hybrid, and Toyota Grand Highlander are compelling choices in the market today. As automakers continue to expand and improve their hybrid SUV offerings, this segment is poised for even more growth in 2024 and beyond.

Drivers interested in an SUV with excellent fuel economy would be wise to consider one of these exceptional hybrid models. Stop by your local auto dealerships and explore these fantastic rides for yourself today.

The post 3 Amazing Hybrid SUVs for 2024 first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

The post 3 Amazing Hybrid SUVs for 2024 appeared first on Ride4Watts.com.

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf is an ideal choice for buyers who want to switch to an EV and have a short commute. Lease deals for this model tend to be pretty affordable. For example, $289 per month for three years. Like most affordable small EV models, the Nissan Leaf features a fairly short range of 149 miles on a full charge in the base trim.

Kia EV6

Increasing numbers of EV models are crossovers. The Kia EV6 is a sleek and sporty model with agile handling that gives it a fun driving experience. The cabin approaches luxury quality with many upmarket materials and styling. Recent lease deals on this crossover are for the Wind trim, which features a range of 310 miles and RWD. The EV6 Wind makes 225 horsepower. Inside, you’ll find modern features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, smartphone connectivity, and heated front seats.

Kia Niro EV

Kia has several lease deals on EV models right now. The Kia Niro is another one that makes a good choice for the first-time EV buyer. The Niro features FWD, a single-speed transmission, and an electric motor to make 201 horsepower and 253 miles of range. The base trim offers some decent standard features, like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless charging, and heated front seats.

Subaru Solterra

The new Subaru Solterra has both purchase and lease deals available. This EV offers a range of 220 miles, and it comes standard with AWD and a decent ability to perform off-road. The Subaru Solterra uses two electric motors to make 215 horsepower. Some of its all-terrain features include hill ascent and descent, selectable drive modes for different conditions, and grip control. Standard interior features include wireless smartphone connectivity and an eight-inch touchscreen.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has been on the market for a few years but was recently refreshed to offer more range and efficiency. Lease deals are available for most models of this sleek crossover. The Ioniq 5 boasts plenty of standard features, including a safety suite, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and wireless smartphone connectivity.

Nissan Ariya

The Ariya is another new crossover with a handsome, modern appearance. It offers exceptional efficiency and plenty of standard equipment. The range for the Nissan Ariya goes up to 304 miles and AWD is available. Nissan offers a long list of standard features, and some lease deals allow you to choose additional options on top of the basic model.

Toyota bZ4X

This is Toyota’s new EV crossover, and it offers a comfortable cabin with simple furnishings. The bZ4X powertrain maxes out at 252 miles, which is roughly standard for this crossover segment. Standard equipment on this Toyota EV includes wireless charging, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, and five USB ports.

Finding EV lease deals is relatively easy, but it may depend on your local area and what your nearby dealerships are offering. Lease deals may also change from month to month.

The post Best Electric Cars To Lease first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

The post Best Electric Cars To Lease appeared first on Ride4Watts.com.

America Loves Small Trucks, But Toyota Drags Its Feet

The call for a Toyota rival to the hit Ford Maverick compact pickup grows louder every day. Everyone from Toyota dealers to loyal customers is pleading for a fun-sized truck to compete with the Maverick’s runaway success. Yet despite the overwhelming demand, Toyota remains tight-lipped on any official plans.

Steve Gates, chairman of the Toyota National Dealer Council, is one of the loudest voices urging Toyota to take on the Maverick. With three Toyota and one Ford dealership, Gates has seen the Maverick mania firsthand.

“The quality small truck is Toyota’s DNA,” said Gates. “We hear stories all the time from people who long for another small Toyota truck. I think the volume opportunity is huge without affecting Tacoma and Tundra sales.” According to Gates, the Maverick sells as fast as every Ford dealer makes them available, with no end to the order backlog in sight. But surprisingly, Maverick sales haven’t even dented demand for Ford’s Ranger or F-150.

Toyota Admits Interest But Stays Quiet

Even Toyota’s North America CEO, Dave Christ, acknowledges the Maverick is squarely in Toyota’s sights. “We’ve obviously watched Maverick closely,” Christ admitted. “Could there be an opportunity there? I’m sure the market exists because Maverick’s done reasonably well.”

With Christ openly stating the demand and potential value of a small pickup, why is Toyota holding back? A compact truck built on the new Corolla Cross platform seems like an obvious win. But so far, Toyota is keeping mum on any official plans.

America Clamors for Small Trucks

The roaring popularity of the Maverick at Ford dealer locations across the country proves compact pickups are making a huge comeback. Ford can’t build them fast enough to satisfy demand. Even the Maverick’s only competition, the Hyundai Santa Cruz, sees strong interest, too.

Although the Santa Cruz can tow more and offers luxury features, it comes at a higher cost. The Maverick provides rugged utility and fuel efficiency at an affordable price. That’s why shoppers are looking for an alternative to the massive, costly pickups that currently fill the market. This combination of usefulness, efficiency, and value in smaller pickup packages has sparked a small truck frenzy.

Toyota Missing Out on Hot Market

From dealers to diehard fans, the masses have spoken. They want a Toyota Maverick fighter. Something to compete against the lineup at the local Ford dealer. Compact pickups represent Toyota’s heritage and a potential sales goldmine. Yet Toyota drags its feet instead of jumping on this opportunity.

Maybe Toyota is playing it extremely close to the vest with secret truck plans. All signs point to Toyota missing out by ignoring the red-hot small truck market. America is begging for another compact pickup legend, but is Toyota listening? The window for Toyota to win big with a Maverick rival grows smaller every day.

The post Toyota Dealers Begging for a Ford Maverick Fighter first appeared on Ride4Watts.com.

The post Toyota Dealers Begging for a Ford Maverick Fighter appeared first on Ride4Watts.com.