EV Review: 2026 Cadillac Optiq

 Cadillac, Reviews  No Responses »
Jun 032026
 


Lacking a controversial owner, Cadillac may not grab headlines for its electric vehicles (EVs) but the brand has quietly built up its lineup to five and Latino Traffic Report just got to test drive one of its newest nameplates, the 2026 Optiq. With a competitive electric range, the Optiq has another advantage over other EVs, it’s a Cadillac.

The test model, Optiq V-Series, arrived in a Nimbus Metallic (powder blue) exterior color, a welcome break from the dull-as-dishwater shades of grey offered by other EV makers and worth the added $635. Available in five trims, a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) option is new for 2026. When launched last year, all Optiqs came with all-wheel drive (AWD), as did the test model, which was also a V-Series, the top-of-the-line trim.

As mentioned, this EV is a Cadillac, a brand that has built a reputation for luxury but also innovation including many firsts like air conditioning, introduced by the brand in 1964. Inside, the test model featured quilted, heated, and cooled leather seats in the front in Sky Cool Gray with blue accent piping. Silver and blue aluminum accented the dash and door panels and the center consul combined carbon fiber with silver faceted accents in the cup holders and controls.

Cadillac’s attention to detail with premium features also applies to technology, like super cruise control that allows for autonomous driving by adjusting speed, steering, and braking to keep a certain distance from the vehicle in front of it. A three-year subscription to super cruise is included, but adaptive cruise control that operates like super cruise but still requires drivers to keep hands on the steering wheel, is standard.

For those in colder climates, the Optiq includes heated wiper park to keep windshield wipers from sticking to the ice or frost, as well as heated side mirrors, and the Safety Alert Seat provides blind spot and collision warnings with an effective haptic alert that feels like a slight vibration in the seat along the sides.

Luxury technology includes the AKG Studio, 19-speaker stereo with Dolby Atmos, a 33-inch configurable LED display that connects the instrument cluster to the Google infotainment touchscreen, heated rear seats, and a hands-free liftgate. The rearview mirror offers a choice between a camera view, which can be distracting, or normal.

The most important equipment on the Optiq, its powertrain, utilizes GM’s Ultium EV architecture, featuring an 85-kilowatt-hour, 10-module battery pack and a 400-volt electrical system that drives one (RWD) or two motors, as on the AWD version.

While the AWD version on other trims can generate up to 440 horsepower and 498 lb.–ft. of torque, the as-tested V-Series Dual Motor AWD has a high-output AWD system tuned for 519 horsepower and 650 lb.–ft. of torque. The Optiq also offers a selection of drive modes to fine tune its performance.

But with EVs, it’s the charging experience that owners must adapt to and Cadillac provides two methods for home charging—a chord that can plug into a 110/120- or 240-volt outlet simply by attaching the correct plug. During the test drive, it did take a moment to figure out how to remove the plug attachment but simply pull the wrong one off to attach the right one.

Charging with a 110 outlet is a much slower process though faster than the estimated time of one mile-per-hour that was conveniently displayed on the IP. For those using a 110 outlet, it will be important to recharge every night rather than waiting a day or two. With a 240 outlet, a full charge will take about six hours and result in an estimated range of 303 miles. Click here for more charging tips.

Pricing for the Optiq starts at $2,695 including destination fees. The as-tested price came to $78,526.

Sí: The Cadillac Optiq offers a competitive electric range of 303 miles but with heightened luxury and advanced technology.

No: Home charging with a conventional 110/120 outlet is possible but slow.

 

Plug-in Hybrid Review: 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV

 Kia  Comments Off on Plug-in Hybrid Review: 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV
Mar 302026
 


Kia introduced the Sportage, its first sport utility vehicle (SUV), in 1993 as a 1994 model. Fast forward to today, and it’s the brand’s top-selling model. The Sportage line-up to includes six gasoline-powered, five hybrid models, and in 2023 it expanded further to add two plug-in hybrid electric models (PHEV), the first entries for Kia in this segment. Latino Traffic Report recently tested the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV X-Line Prestige. It offers a decent electric range complemented by an impressive list of creature comforts.

Powered by a 1.6-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 177 horsepower and 195 lb.–ft. of torque and matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, the Sportage PHEV powertrain also includes a 66.9-kW electric motor and 13.8 kWh lithium polymer battery provide additional power. Equipped with all-wheel drive with Terrain Mode adds a selection of off-road surfaces: snow, mud and sand (new for 2026). To help improve on road performance, the PHEV offers a choice of three drive modes: Eco, Sport, and MyDrive.

For anyone who hears the word plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and wonders how it differs from a typical hybrid, beyond the acronym, and why anyone would spend extra for one, here’s the deal. Like a hybrid, the PHEV combines fuel combustion and battery power to extend a vehicle’s fuel economy. Unlike, the hybrid, however, the PHEV can be charged to increase its electric power range, not as far as a purely electric vehicle (EV), but enough to get you to and from work, or the grocery store, or some other quick errand, without using gasoline. In the case of the Sportage PHEV, that amounts to a 32-mile range.

Charging can be done at home on a 110v outlet or with a 220v quick charger that cuts charge time to two hours. The plug, however, had an odd configuration that limited charging during the test but owners will undoubtedly figure it out. The Sportage PHEV average 32.8 miles per gallon (mpg) but jumped to 54 mpg on highway drives.

As a Sportage PHEV with the X-Line Prestige trim, the test model sits at the top of the line-up.  This does increase expectations for extra bells and whistles and it didn’t disappoint. It’s refreshed exterior design, improves its curb appeal plus the test model came in a matte grey paint finish adding to its premium status.

The Prestige trim included a healthy list of standard features plus some fancy ones too, like a 12.3-inch center touchscreen for infotainment and other onboard functions, a blind-spot collision warning system, and smart cruise control with a distance setting and Stop and Go, among other features.

Fancy equipment on the test model included a 12.3-inch configurable instrument cluster (IP)—Kia has striking graphics on its vehicles—a head-up display, blinds-spot view camera in the IP, ventilated front seats to go along with the heated ones that come standard, plus heated rear seats, among other features.  Both 12.3-inch screens are connected to give an impressive, sweeping view along the dash.

The longest running nameplate from the Kia brand, pricing for the Sportage starts at $30,285. The as-tested price came to $49,730.

Sí: The Kia Sportage PHEV offers a decent electric range as well as good gasoline fuel economy.

No: The test model was fairly pricey so that the Sportage may compete above its weight class.


Sports Sedan Review: 2025 Hyundai Elantra N

 Hyundai, Reviews  Comments Off on Sports Sedan Review: 2025 Hyundai Elantra N
Nov 232025
 


            The Elantra may have been refreshed for 2024, but the new look is such a departure from the 2024 model that it could be called a redesign, and it’s a winner. Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently tested the Elantra N, the sportiest Elantra in the lineup. For car buyers who have a need for speed but not the budget to buy a sports car, the N just might do.

The N utilizes the N Grin System (NGS), including a red NGS button below the steering wheel that injects super power for 20 seconds, and N shifters as well that infuse energy when needed. It’s got the engine rumble that you want on a sports sedan, plus a rear spoiler, and ventilated brake rotors.

The a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, developed specifically for the N, produces 276 horses and 289 lb.–ft. of torque. That may seem modest for a sports car but it’s almost double the power of the entry-level powertrain. It’s matched to an eight-speed dual clutch transmission.

Fuel economy is respectable. It averaged 26.7 mpg but it measured 31 mpg when it arrived so it can exceed the EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 20/27 mpg.

First launched in 2012, the N brand represents Hyundai’s high-performance vehicles or “everyday sports cars,” taking technology from Hyundai’s motorsport competition. Launched in 2021, the Elantra N completed the N lineup.

Inside the racing theme comes through with body-hugging front seats with suede inserts and an illuminated N on the headrest, digital effects flash along the 10.25-inch gauge cluster and 10.25-inch center infotainment screen and when the N-shifter is engaged, you see a ring of fire very similar to the Batmobile’s exhaust. The touchscreen also displays powertrain functions when in N-mode but it’s distracting and it would be preferable to keep your eyes on the road.

Located at the top of the lineup and in typical Hyundai fashion, the N comes loaded with bells and whistles, including Bose premium audio, a wireless phone charger, the blind spot warning system, and a proximity key with push button start among other features.

All adjustments, however, were manual, from the steering wheel to the front seat—up and down, forward and back and while the rear seat does fold flat, it’s a bench and not split 60/40, with a rear chassis brace between the bench and the trunk.

The N may not have the power of a true sports car but it’s certainly faster and sportier than most sedans plus it was nice to be able to get in and out of it with ease and carry more than just one bag of groceries.

As-tested pricing for the 2025 Elantra N came to $37,070.

Sí: The Elantra N provides sports car enthusiasts with a more affordable performance sedan, loaded with bells and whistles.

No: The manual seating controls detracted from its position at the top of the lineup.

 

Premium SUV review: 2025 Lexus LX 700h

 Lexus, Reviews  Comments Off on Premium SUV review: 2025 Lexus LX 700h
Nov 042025
 


First introduced in 1996, the Lexus LX (then the LX 450) was also the first sport utility vehicle (SUV) Lexus offered. Sitting at the top of the Lexus lineup, it’s also considered a flagship model. For 2025, the LX lineup includes the first hybrid version, the LX 700h, which Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently tested, and the new Overtrail trim for off-road enthusiasts, also included on the test model.

When a Lexus arrives for a test drive, it’s not a stretch to prepare for a premium ride that stands out with a handsome exterior design and plush interior with lots of bells and whistles. When the  LX 700h arrived, its Earth exterior color with black accents on the door handles, and the now iconic spindle grille, checked one box. Several premium features on the inside checked the second box, starting with the heated and cooled leather seats in the front with a massage function, normally found only on premium models.

It had seating for seven with a power folding rear seat but the second row flipped up manually with a lever for access to the third row that was split 50/50 and folded with the push of a button. The LX can also be equipped with just two rows of seating. It had a configurable instrument cluster, ambient lighting, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with infotainment functions on top and hybrid vehicle functional information below, a wireless phone charger, plus real wood accents, another feature usually reserved for premium models.

Powered by a 3.4-liter V6 hybrid twin turbo engine with 457 total horsepower and matched to a ten-speed automatic transmission, it can tow up to 8,000 pounds. Fuel efficiency was not as impressive as expected for a hybrid. It has an EPA estimated economy of 19 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. It averaged 20.4 mpg during the test drive which is just above the average estimated mpg.

The Overtrail trim includes front and rear locking differentials, a 2,400W AC inverter, off-road all-weather floor liners, 33-inch All-Terrain tires and 18-inch wheels, and a front skid plate. A full spare tire is now standard on the LX.

The LX competes in a premium segment and it has the trappings to do it. Consumers in this segment may not be as sensitive to price but when the cost reaches six figures, the competition tightens. Pricing for the LX starts at $106,850, the as-tested price came to $118,510 but that’s not the most one can pay for this premium SUV.

Sí: Beautifully outfitted inside and out, the LX 700h will compete nicely in its segment.

No: Fuel economy could be more impressive on a hybrid.

 

 

Compact SUV Review: 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

 Mazda, Reviews  Comments Off on Compact SUV Review: 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid
Oct 312025
 


According to the New York Times, sport utility vehicles officially outsold sedans in 2015 but within the SUV market, compact SUVs sit at the top. The reasons are simple.  They’re nimble, easy to park at the grocery store, fuel-efficient and versatile, components that made SUVs so popular that cars almost became obsolete. Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently tested the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus and it certainly suits its segment.

Powered by a 2.5-liter hybrid (new for 2025) engine with 219 combined horsepower and 163 lb.–ft. of torque, the test model averaged 32.5 miles per gallon (mpg) but the CX-50 has an EPA estimated city/highway mpg of 39/37 so it could do better. It seemed to stretch its gas range during the test driving when it showed 320 miles to empty with only a quarter of the15.9-gallon tank depleted. According Mazda’s media page, the “hybrid offers over 100 miles of extra driving range compared to CX-550 2.5 S models,” assisted by the hybrid’s electric motors.

As a hybrid Premium Plus trim, the test model sits at number six of the available ten packages to choose from and as such, it came with fancier features like 19-inch hybrid wheels in a split black and machine polished finish, bright roof rails and exhaust pipes, automatic power-folding side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink garage door opener, six-way power passenger seat and two-position memory setting for the powered driver seat. As an added treat, the test model also had a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled seats, and multiple drive modes, including a trail mode for off-roading since all CX-50 models come with all-wheel drive.

The styling on the hybrid model is also unique, starting with unique wheel designs, a different lower front bumper design, and the availability of a new red leather interior option.

The CX-50 added one more plus, it was uncomplicated. Setting the preset channels was intuitive, reading the instrument cluster, where only the center dial was digital, was easy, and general operation was normal, in a good way. Adding versatility, the rear seats folded flat easily, exposing 56.3 cubic feet of cargo room.

If you can’t afford the hybrid, it’s nice to know that all CX-50s come with the most essential safety feature, a blind spot monitor. Pricing for the 2025 CX-50 starts at $31,995. The as-tested pricing came to $41,920 with destination fees.

Sí: The Mazda CX-50 hybrid is fuel efficient, easy to maneuver, and versatile, like most compact SUVs, but it stands out with added premium features.

No: As tested pricing was a little steep.


Off-road SUV Review: 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Trailhunter

 Reviews, Toyota  Comments Off on Off-road SUV Review: 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Trailhunter
Oct 042025
 


Redesigned for 2025, the all-new Toyota 4Runner also comes with an all-new model, the Trailhunter. Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently test drove the 4Runner Hybrid Trailhunter and it doubles down on the 4Runner’s off-road heritage.

As a member of the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) LTR’s editor has had many opportunities to drive the 4Runner on some challenging off-road courses at TAWA’s annual Truck Rodeo. The 4Runner stood out among other contenders for its comfortable ride, rock climbing, and off-road agility. While the most recent test drive did not afford an off-road test, this massive version of the nameplate, built specifically for off-road enthusiasts, inspired lots of confidence that it’s up to the task.

It’s 33-inch tires with 18-inch bronze finished wheels enhance road hugging while the Everest/mineral (teal) exterior color added visual appeal. The distinctive Trailhunter badge finished the look.

Mechanically, the Trailhunter is ready to climb, but climbing into it may take an extra effort for the vertically challenged. With a ground clearance of 10.1 inches, it sits on a high-strength boxed, steel-ladder frame and features a multi-link coil rear and double wishbone front suspension with the Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism that increases suspension articulation with the push of a button. Available off-road tech is standard on the Trailhunter, like the Multi-Terrain Monitor system that helps the driver see potential obstructions, an electronic locking rear differential, the Multi-Terrain Select system that offers a choice of Mud, Dirt, and Sand for targeted offroading, the next-generation CRAWL Control that acts as a low-speed, off-road cruise control, and Downhill Assist Control that limits the speed on tricky descents.

It’s powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter, four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with 326 horsepower and 465 lb.–ft. of torque paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission that can tow up to 6,000 pounds. Located on the passenger side A-pillar, the low-profile high-mount air intake did issue a hissing sound on the highway and the engine itself sounded a little like a diesel.

Inside, the dash, accented by the new 14-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch instrument panel, and gray SofTex seats with yellow stitching and piping all reflected a rugged theme. The second-row seats flipped up manually to improve access to the cargo area but they can also fold flat for a maximum 82.6 cubic feet of space.

Don’t expect good fuel economy, even on the hybrid. The EPA estimated fuel economy is 23 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 24 mpg on the highway but it averaged 17.7 mpg on the test drive and engaging the adaptive radar cruise control took more effort than it should.

This distinctive and super loaded Trailhunter comes at a cost that will single out true off-road enthusiasts. Pricing for the 2025 4Runner starts at $42,220 but the as-tested price came to $69,893.

Sí: The 2025 Trailhunter is well-equipped to function as intended, especially offroad.

No: Don’t expect impressive fuel economy, even on a hybrid, and its sticker price might be a shocker.

 

 

 

Sports Car Review: 2025 Toyota GR Supra 3.0 Premium

 Reviews, Toyota  Comments Off on Sports Car Review: 2025 Toyota GR Supra 3.0 Premium
Sep 162025
 


The Toyota Supra rejoined the Toyota lineup in 2019 as the 2020 GR Supra and Latino Traffic Report (LTR) got the chance to review it then and two years later. This month, a third GR Supra arrived for a test drive, the 2025 3.0 Premium. It reaffirmed itself as Toyota’s halo car.

The Supra has evolved over the years, adding a four-cylinder version and increasing power on the six-cylinder to its current level in 2021, and most significantly, offering a six-speed manual transmission option in 2023. It’s still available today, the four-cylinder, however, is not, but the model tested by LTR came with an eight-speed automatic transmission matched to the twin turbo, six-cylinder inline engine that can produce 382 horsepower, 368 lb.–ft. of torque and a zero-to-60 mph acceleration of 3.9 seconds. It’s that kind of acceleration that automatically generates a smile. The automatic transmission also comes with paddle shifters on the steering column for added sportiness, especially on a curvy road like Austin’s FM 2222.

Versatility and convenience are the Achilles Heel to a sports car, e.g. it’s cramped, there’s little storage, it’s hard to get in and out of (even in 2020 when I was a bit younger), and setting the presets for radio and Sirius XM wasn’t intuitive. But it is FUN TO DRIVE and with a sports car, that what matters most, plus it’s a head-turner.

Besides its power, like a sports car, the Supra sits on a stiff ride, specifically a double joint-type MacPherson front and multi-link independent rear suspension. Additional adjustments come from the Adaptative Variable Suspension, selecting the Sport mode, or engaging the Individual settings to fine tune it even more. Steering is tight and responsive.

The test model also came with hazelnut Alcantara leather seating and accents on the steering wheel, which was an improvement on the all-black interiors of the models that were tested previously.

While the design has remained largely the same, in an if-it-ain’t-broke-don’t-fix-it way, there have been come enhancements and if you’re looking for a sports car, the Supra lives up to its legend. But you better hurry; 2026 will be the last model year.

To mark its adiós, Toyota will introduce the GR Supra MkV Final Edition. To wear the GR badge, a vehicle must pass through rigorous testing by Toyota GAZOO Racing engineers. The final edition will come closest to embracing that racing heritage with chasis and suspension modifications, improved cornering, and a strengthened front stabilizer.

Pricing for the 2025 Supra starts at $58,695. The as-tested price came to $61,930.

Sí: The 2025 GR Supra captures its sporty heritage with impressive acceleration and handling that makes it fun to drive.

No: Like most sports cars, it’s cramped, hard to get in and out of, and has limited cargo room.


Plug-in Hybrid Review: 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV

 Mazda, Reviews  Comments Off on Plug-in Hybrid Review: 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV
Feb 112025
 


Some carmakers are all in when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs) while others prefer to offer as many fuel-efficient options as possible. Mazda appears to be in the latter camp, introducing the all-new 2025 CX-70 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently tested the Premium Plus trim and as the name implies, this trim sits at the top of the CX-70 lineup and as such, comes loaded with fancy features and innovative technology.

The mid-size two-row crossover SUV squeezes between Mazda’s CX-50 and CX-90 models. A hybrid plug-in makes up one of seven available packages, including non-hybrid models, and helps stretch fuel economy. It can also tow up to 3,500 lbs.
True to its trim level, the test model came with maroon heated and cooled leather front seating, and heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, blind spot monitor, a leather dashboard with accent stitching, and a second-row that folded flat with the push of a button or remotely. The black handles on the exterior accented the Copper Metallic exterior nicely.
With two 12.3-inch displays enhancing the interior on the PHEV, the infotainment screen was a little plainer and the interface a little clunky, while the display on the instrument cluster was nicer to look at as well as informative.

Powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine matched to an electric motor with  a 17.8-kWh battery pack, the PHEV powertrain produces a combined 323 horsepower and 369 lb.–ft. of torque (with the recommended premium gasoline). It’s matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission and adds drive modes—Sport, Off-Road, Towing and EV—for better performance.

The EPA estimated fuel economy on the CX-70 PHEV is an average of 25 miles per gallon (MPG) but grows to 56 mpg with the added 26 miles of electric range. It achieved 28.4 mpg on the test drive but without the electric range—the standard charging chord, usable on a 120v outlet—was not included on the test model.

Oddly, the shift knob placed Park to the left which was a little counter intuitive. Normally Park sits at the top of the stack but that spot was taken by Reverse which may take a little getting used to, especially when parking.
Pricing for the 2025 CX-70 starts at $41,820. With a $450 charge for the exterior paint and extra features from the Plus package, the as-tested MSRP came to $59,275.

Sí: The CX-70 plug-in hybrid offers the convenience of an SUV with extra miles of electric range for better fuel economy and a handsome design inside and out.

No: The infotainment system, especially setting presets, wasn’t intuitive.

 

Premium Hybrid Review: 2025 Lexus UX 300h

 Lexus, Reviews  Comments Off on Premium Hybrid Review: 2025 Lexus UX 300h
Feb 032025
 


Electric vehicles may grab headlines but hybrids continue to appeal to consumers. According to a Jan. 3, 2025 Reuters report, while EV sales lagged in 2024, “U.S. new-car sales in 2024 continued to rise from their pandemic lows, bolstered by replenished inventories, higher incentives, and surging demand for hybrid vehicles.”

Luxury hybrids are very much in the mix and that includes Lexus. The automaker introduced the UXh in 2018 as a hybrid-only model. Updated for 2025, the new 300h is the first Lexus powered by the fifth-generation hybrid powertrain.

Latino Traffic Report recently tested Lexus’s sporty compact SUV, equipped with the F Sport package that elevates its new powertrain with 196 total system horsepower.  Select the Sport S+ mode, one of four available, and the UXh really takes off and with a nice engine rumble taboot.

Replacing the UX 250h, the 300h is still a hybrid so one may also select the Eco mode for an EPA estimated fuel economy of 45 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway (Lexus hybrids tend to do better in stop-and-start traffic). The as-tested mpg came to 44.1 mpg.

Known for its glass-like exterior paint, Lexus bestows new colors on the 2025 UX 300h including Copper Crest that was featured on the test model. The 2025 model year also includes updated technology and safety features but the rear parking sensor was a little slow, pedestrians appeared before the sensor alarm was heard. Admittedly, driving experts will say, and rightly so, that it’s best to turn and look first before backing out, but safety tech like this should alert the driver in advance to more effectively serve as a preemptive warning.

The sporty theme continued on the inside with black bolstered seats with red accent stitching. New technology included shift by wire transmission, a vivid 12.3 touchscreen on the F Sport (the interface with Apple CarPlay was a little clunky), two Type C USB ports but luckily for those with older technology, a Type A USB in the center console was included as well. A 12V outlet, formerly used for a cigarette lighter, can also be employed for charging with the appropriate chord.

Only offered with a hybrid powertrain in the U.S., the 2025 UX 300h has a starting price of $37,490. The as-tested price came to $48,200.

Sí: The UX 300h offers impressive fuel economy in a sporty, fun package.

No: The parking sensor may need to be adjusted to provide a better preemptive warning.


Battle of the Hybrids: 2024 Toyota Prius Limited AWD vs. 2024 Sonata Hybrid Limited

 Hyundai, Reviews, Toyota  Comments Off on Battle of the Hybrids: 2024 Toyota Prius Limited AWD vs. 2024 Sonata Hybrid Limited
Dec 102024
 


The first gasoline-electric hybrid wasn’t made by a Japanese carmaker, but by a German one, Ferdinand Porshe in 1901 when he debuted the Lohner-Porsche Mixte. That car was a little ahead of its time but fast forward to today and hybrids have established a firm foothold in the car market, making up 20 percent of all vehicles sold in 2024, a new record in 2024.

Prius front seats.

Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently got to test drive two leaders in the market, the 2024 Toyota Prius and the 2024 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. With competitive fuel economy, these hybrids differentiate themselves when it comes to technology and performance.

Sonata front seats.

Named the 2024 North American Car of the Year by a jury of auto writers, the redesigned Toyota Prius stunned when it first appeared in 2023 with its innovative and progressive exterior design. LTR recently drove the Limited All-Wheel Drive (AWD) version and it impressed with its performance and elegance.

Refreshed for 2024, the Sonata’s new look could almost be called a redesign, it’s so much cleaner and refined—those upswept LED accents on the headlamps have been replaced with a linear strip from left to right. LTR recently test drove the hybrid version, specifically, the 2024 Hybrid Limited. The top-of-the line trim didn’t hold back on bells and whistles but some technology was a little quirky.

Powertrains

A 2.0-liter dual overhead cam (DOHC) four-cylinder engine and Toyota’s hybrid synergy drive system that produces 196 horses and 152 lb.–ft. of torque powers the Prius. It has an estimated fuel economy of 49 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 50 on the highway. It was just short of that on the test drive with an average of 43.3 mpg.

While the EV mode, one of four available, helps stretch fuel economy, the Sport mode had a lot to do with the Prius’s improved acceleration and power.

The EPA estimates that the Sonata Hybrid can achieve 44 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the highway. It averaged 44.1 mpg on the test drive.

It’s powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder DOHC with 150 hp and 139 lb.–ft. of torque and matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters to engage the Shiftronic manual shift mode which can improve performance.

Features and Technology

Hybrids and EVs sit at the top of most model line-ups, but the Limited with AWD is at the top of the Prius lineup. As such, it was packed with fancy features and technology, as well as lots of cubbies for storage. Interior details, like the configurable instrument panel, a 12.3-inch multimedia infotainment touchscreen, heated and cooled front seats, and a split panoramic sunroof stood out on the inside. Nice touches include a light strip along the dash that flashes when the car in front at a stop starts to move.

Seventeen-inch alloy wheels come standard on the Prius but the Limited gets 19-inch alloy wheels, a power hatch lid, and a digital key that allows smartphones to open doors instead of a physical key. A must-have safety feature, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, is standard across the lineup.

Like the Prius, the test model Sonata hybrid was the top-of-the-line model and similarly, included lots of extras like a color head-up display, panoramic sunroof, cooled as well as heated front seats, smart cruise control with stop and start, remote parking assist, and a blind spot monitor with a camera view displayed in the instrument panel (IP). Adding to the camera and tonal warning, the test model also included a haptic warning that vibrated the steering wheel. A basic blind spot warning system is standard on all Sonatas.

Both the IP and infotainment touchscreen measure 12.3 inches and included striking graphics. The tan leather seating enhanced the luxury feel on the inside.

On the down side

While the Prius does include a good assortment of helpful technologies, setting the adaptive cruise control was not intuitive and struggling with it became distracting. Another feature that seems unique to Toyota products is a camera view that engages at a stop light. It does provide a view of the surroundings but it’s more distracting than helpful.

The smart regeneration feature on the Sonata may help maximize battery power when coasting but it may also startle drivers at first. The effect was a bit harsh, noticeably slowing acceleration. Luckily, it can be adjusted or disengaged, if necessary. Also, while the rear seats do fold down, the pass through to the truck was partially obstructed and the smart release on the trunk was overly sensitive. It opened on its own in a grocery store parking lot once.

Pricing for the 2025 Prius starts at $29,485, including destination fees. The as-tested price came to $39,474. Pricing for the 2025 Sonata Hybrid starts at $27,995. The as-tested price came to $37,715.

Sí: Both the Prius and the Sonata Hybrid are handsome, inside and out, and the fuel economy makes them strong competitors in the segment. The Prius, however, has the edge when it comes to power, while the Sonata excels with striking graphics on two 12.3-inch display screens and extra technology like a blind spot camera and color head-up display.

No: Some tech was not as engaging or helpful as intended. Setting the adaptive cruise control on the Prius could be more intuitive and the smart regeneration on the Sonata has a negative impact on performance.

 

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