Toyota – Latino Traffic Report

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 No Responses »

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.

Toyota to Partner with Latin GRAMMY Winning Singer-Songwriter, Ela Taubert

Noticias Comments Off

May 312025

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Toyota just announced a year-long partnership with Colombian pop phenom, Ela Taubert, who recently released her highly acclaimed debut album ‘Preguntas A Las 11:11’. The dynamic collaboration aims to redefine the journey of music discovery for young fans while providing a genuine connection with Toyota’s commitment to supporting emerging artists on their road to success.The partnership will engage with Toyota fans and provide them with opportunities to experience Taubert’s music that mixes melodic pop and Latin sounds. To help access to her music throughout the year, Toyota will serve as the presenting sponsor of her much anticipated international tour, with U.S. tour stops to be announced soon.

“Our partnership with Ela Taubert is an exhilarating step forward in our commitment to innovation and cultural connection,” said Dedra DeLilli, vice president marketing communications, Toyota. “We are thrilled to be joining her on this blossoming musical path to bring an immersive music experience that resonates with the passions of the next generation.”

Most recently, Taubert joined Toyota at the Sueños Music Festival, as the featured artist performing a special set at the Toyota Music Den (TMD), an intimate experiential space giving fans a front row seat to some of the most talented emerging artists. Held in Chicago, Illinois, other artists joining the lineup at the TMD included Latin boy band sensation, DND (Do Not Disturb) from Miami, California singer/songwriter Eddie Zuko, Venezuelan artist Kobi Cantillo, and DJs Gio Sandz, Chava and Latin EDM DJ and producer 2Deep.

Along with the music stage, the TMD space featured numerous fan activities, including vehicle interactions—showcasing the Land Cruiser and Prius Prime plug-in—that bring music to life and include fan favorite giveaways.

Taubert’s music will continue to be featured in other Toyota projects this year. She will appear on Sounds of the Road, presented by Toyota and SiriusXM, an exclusive performance and interview series featuring emerging and established artists. Her episode, launching later this year, will be in Spanish and the first time the series features a Latin artist.

Fans can view exclusive content from Sueños and stay in the loop of the exciting partnership and upcoming tour by following Toyota Latino on Instagram and Facebook.

Yaris Here, Yaris There, Yaris Everywhere!

Used Car Diary Comments Off

Apr 182025

This little Yaris lives in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

ODO 231,988

I get a little thrill when I see another Yaris on the road. It reconfirms the confidence I have in my 2007 Bunny and that like the Energizer mascot, she’s gonna keep going and going—more than 230,000 miles and still counting! I see them on the road locally everyday, but I recently spotted a Bunny doppelganger in a more exotic locale, Puerto Rico (above). Such a treat to own a reliable and fuel efficient (34 average mpg the last time I did the math) form of transportation, and she’s super cute too.

Bunny and Friends

Generous Gas Savers: From SUVs to EVs

Features Comments Off

Feb 062024

Remember when the auto industry looked at hybrids with a stink eye? That was back when in 1999 when the modern versions first emerged. According to Axios, electrified vehicle sales—hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and electric vehicles (EV)—reached 17.7 percent of auto sales in the United States in 2023 with the Honda CR-V hybrid leading hybrid sales. Government mandates for increasing fuel economy combined with fluctuating gas prices, encourage car buyers to seek vehicles that save gas or better yet, don’t use gas at all. With that in mind, Latino Traffic Report (LTR) offers this list of recently tested gas savers for our readers to consider.

Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

When Toyota announced plans to build the 2022 Corolla Cross, it created an immediate buzz. Many wondered if Toyota could or should attempt to improve on the top-selling Corolla by making it sportier and more versatile, i.e. a compact crossover? Enter 2023 and Toyota has taken the Cross one step further by introducing a hybrid version, the Corolla Cross Hybrid.

On the outside, the hybrid version differs from its gas-powered sibling with unique front and rear styling. The test model, Corolla Cross HV HSE, also came with the available two-tone paint, and 18-inch alloy wheels. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is standard on all Cross hybrids.

Assembled in Huntsville, Alabama at the brand-new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant, the hybrid is available in three new grades: S, SE and XSE. As a hybrid, it’s is also priced above its gas-powered sibling.

That means the all models come with an improved Toyota Safety Sense suite that includes pre-collision warning with emergency braking, dynamic radar cruise control, road sign assist to read speed limits, and the all-important blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert. Also standard on the top-of-the-line test model were premium LED head lamps, taillamps and fog lamps, Softex-trimmed seats with the addition of heated front seats and a power driver’s seat.

Happily, the Toyota Audio Multimedia System, with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and USB-C charge ports is standard on all trims. Users can interact with the system through intuitive touch and voice activation controls.

Under the hood is a peppy 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 196 horsepower. Fuel savings being the optimum question for a hybrid, it has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 45 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. It averaged 38 mpg during the test drive. Adding to that is 63.8 cubic feet of cargo room with the second-row seat folded flat.

Having spent a week in the Cross Hybrid, LTR can confirm that a more versatile and fuel-efficient Corolla was definitely a good idea. Pricing for the 2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid starts at $29,320 and the as-tested price for the Corolla Cross Hybrid XSE came to $37,208. All prices include destination fees.

Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid

Freshened in 2021, the Hyundai Santa Fe didn’t just get a modified exterior, that year also introduced a new hybrid powertrain with AWD and extensive new driver safety and convenience features. LTR recently tested the 2023 Santa Fe Hybrid Limited AWD. In typical Hyundai fashion, the hybrid brought an extended package of luxury features, like a panoramic moonroof, leather seating with heated and cooled front seats, and heated rear seats, combined with a respectable average fuel economy of 29.8 miles per gallon on the test drive.

Powered by a 1.6 inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 178 hp and 195 ft.–lb. of torque and matched to a six-speed transmission with paddle shifters, the hybrid did have a turbo delay when accelerating but switching to the Sport mode, one of three available, seemed to cure that. The hybrid propulsion system is the first application of its kind in the Hyundai SUV line-up.

Advanced technology included smart cruise control, surround view and blind spot monitors, Blue Link connected services for three years, and Harman Kardon premium audio. Unique to Hyundai, is the blind spot camera that displays in the instrument cluster, which is preferable to displaying in the entertainment screen, as others have done, which is distracting.

For fans of the Santa Fe, particularly its design, 2023 will be the last year to purchase one as the fifth generation, all-new 2024 Santa Fe is coming and it marks the debut of a completely new look for Hyundai. Judging from initial images, it borrows design cues from Ford on the headlamps, and Land Rover on the silhouette. Pricing for the 2023 Santa Fe Hybrid starts at $37,545 with destination fees. The as-tested price came to $43,115.

Lexus NX 350h

LTR had the unique opportunity to test two versions of the Lexus NX 350, the gasoline-powered and most recently, the hybrid version, NX 350h. Like its sibling, the 350h includes the lux styling and amenities that Lexus is known for, but as a hybrid, it’s the top-of-the-line model, which promises a little more features, as well as impressive fuel economy.

Fully redesigned from the inside out in 2022, it’s powered by Lexus Hybrid Drive system that pairs the fuel injected 2.5-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 189 horsepower with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators that assist with acceleration and passing. It has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 41 mpg in the city and 37 on the highway. The test model achieved 32.5 mpg during the week-long test drive.

Standard safety features on the test model included the essential blind-spot monitor, Road Sign Assist, and Dynamic Radar cruise control.

The beautifully finished interior on the test model included tan heated and cooled leather seats, wood accents, and the huge and optional 14-inch touchscreen (the 9.8-inch is standard) that comes with a three-year trial for Drive Connect location guidance services like Cloud Navigation, Destination Assist, and Intelligent Assistant. The larger screen also included Lexus Interface that guests can use a Bluetooth handheld device, smart key or manual login to access. Lexus Interface also incorporates a Voice Assistant available through voice activation or accessible via a button on the steering wheel.

Other standard features included the Head-Up Display, a power moonroof, and Intuitive Parking Assist. The steamlined door handles fit nicely into the door panel but opening the door took a little figuring out.

The test model also included 18 stand-alone options varying in price from a key glove ($25) to 20-inch alloy wheels ($1,310) and which added an extra $10,000 to the starting price of $48,795. Other interesting options included power folding heated rear seats, the Mark Levinson audio system, and a panoramic view monitor.

As-tested MSRP came to $58,445. Pricing for the 2024 NX 350h starts at $44,665.

Genesis Electrified G80

While hybrids have improved gas mileage, the best gas saver is one that doesn’t use gas at all, or electric vehicles (EVs). Genesis joined the EV market with the 2023 Electrified G80 sedan. Initially, the challenge for EVs was their limited range. The restricted range at the onset—as well as charging infrastructure or lack thereof—labeled them as secondary vehicles, limited to city driving. The Electrified G80 hit the market with an impressive range of 282-miles enough to take on a road trip from Austin to Johnston City or roughly 100 miles round trip, and the childhood home of President Lyndon Baines Johnson. It handled the challenge nicely although it did lose 20 miles of range compared to the actual mileage of the trip.

The latest Genesis exterior design is a head turner. Distinctive without looking overworked, the signature Crest Grille has been adjusted for the EV to make it more aerodynamic.

Inside, the premium sedan did not disappoint, with Nappa leather seats, matte wood trim, and a huge 14.5-inch HD screen for the infotainment system and a 123-inch digital instrument cluster. For an added touch, Genesis sourced various natural or recycled materials for its interior such as leather with natural dyes for the seats, console, and rear seat armrest, recycled wood, and environment-friendly, recycled PET fabrics.

Safety features were also well represented with a blind-spot monitor, smart cruise control, and forward and parking collision avoidance, among other features.

While charging infrastructure for EVs has improved, especially with onboard technology that helps drivers locate the nearest charging stations, during the test drive, the Electrified G80 would not charge from a the standard 110-volt home outlet. Another concern about EVs is their incompatibility to extreme weather, which made charging in hot Texas weather tough and expensive. While the quick charger cut off after 20 minutes, the 20 miles of charging that was successfully added cost $10. The only extra feature was the Hallasan Green exterior paint ($575). Available in only one trim, the as-tested MSRP came to $81,495.

Plug-in Hybrid SUV Review: 2023 RAV4 Prime XSE

Reviews, Toyota Comments Off

Nov 162023

For SUV buyers who want versatility but would also appreciate better fuel economy and premium features, Toyota has an option, the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid. It’s not an EV per se but it does allow owners to plug-in at home, still with a 120-volt outlet, and get 42 miles of electric range. That range enhances the EPA estimated fuel economy to an average of 94 miles per gallon (mpg) while driving on combined power. The average gas fuel economy is 38 mpg.

Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently test drove the 2023 RAV4 Prime XSE with all-wheel drive. Charging at home produced a range of 43 miles, which was a little better than the EPA estimate. It also achieved an average fuel economy of 36.9 mpg during the test drive.

Some newer electric vehicles EVs require owners to purchase a Level 2 charger or install a 240-volt outlet to charge so the ability to fully charge with a 120-volt outlet added convenience to the experience. However, because the charge plug was located on the right side rather that the left, it had to be backed into the garage to charge, which was a little inconvenient.

Like all hybrids, RAV4 Prime represent the top-of-the-line trim which brings premium features to the test model like its impressive 10.5-inch multimedia display (a seven-inch display is standard) that was easy to manipulate, particularly when setting presets. The 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster, however, was a little more difficult to configure and a bit plain.

Available in a choice of SE or XSE grades, the top-of-the-line XSE comes equipped with an 11-speaker JBL Premium Audio including subwoofer and amplifier. The test model came with heated and cooled seats with red accent stitching, heated outboard rear seats, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob with red stitching, and USB A and C ports, happy news for older cell phone owners, and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Any model that includes a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert as a standard feature gets an immediate advantage on the competition, and that includes the RAV4 Prime. Additional safety features on the test model included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, and dynamic radar cruise control, among other features.

As a RAV4 it still offers the utility expected with three drive modes, from Eco to Trail, for better versatility and 33.5 cubic feet of rear cargo room for enhanced utility.

It’s powered by a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with 176 horsepower and 165 lb.–ft of torque. On the road, the engine did not lag and the steering feel was tight and confident. The two-tone exterior color combination added $425 to the price and the Premium Package added $2,585 as well as a color head-up display, a panoramic roof, and a foot activated liftgate.

Pricing for the 2024 RAV4 Prime starts at $44,835. The as-tested MSRP came to $51,918.

Sí: The RAV4 Prime presents a premium option for SUV fans who want better fuel economy.

No: Placing the charging outlet on the right side made it awkward to charge.

EV Review: 2023 Toyota bZ4X

Reviews, Toyota Comments Off

Sep 172023

Toyota may have been slow to join the electric vehicle (EV) bandwagon but that’s about to change. All-new for 2023, the bZ4X starts a process at Toyota to grow its EV inventory. Toyota plans to expand to around 70 electrified models globally by 2025.

Offered in two grades, XLE and Limited, in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive (FWD and AWD), Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently had the chance to review the bZ4X Limited AWD, the top-of-the-line model. While the electric range did not meet expectations, it did offer the comfort and convenience of an SUV with added premium touches.

Toyota defines electrified vehicles to include hydrogen fuel cell electrics, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and now battery electric vehicles. According to the automaker, electrified vehicles accounted for about a quarter of Toyota’s total sales volume in the United States last year.

Size enhances the bZ4X’s capability and versatility. The compact SUV is 3.7 inches longer than the RAV4, at 184.6 inches with a 6.3-inch longer wheelbase. For added convenience, cargo volume comes to 27.7 cubic feet behind the second row, but the second row does fold flat for added cargo volume.

The bZ4X comes standard with a 12.3-inch widescreen Toyota Audio Multimedia system with a three-year trial to Drive Connect that gives access to the voice activated Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Also included as a three-year trial service, the Toyota App allows users to stay connected to their bZ4X with Remote Connect to activate headlights, unlock the rear hatch, and remote start the vehicle, among other commands and provides an easy-to-use map (essential on EVs) to find nearby charging station locations.

The test model included the available fixed panoramic roof and a power sunshade and heated and ventilated seats in the front and heated seats in the back.

Favorite standard safety features on all models include a blind spot monitor, tire pressure monitor with a view of each tire, and dynamic radar cruise control.

While the list of standard features is impressive, the bZ4X did have functional challenges, particularly regarding plug-in charging. According to Toyota, the test model should have an EPA estimated max range of 222 miles (the more basic XLE trim can reach a max range of 252), however, it only had 189 miles of range when delivered and during the weeklong test drive, the maximum range achieved from home charging was 149 miles. While it should charge with a conventional 110-volt outlet, Toyota does recommend installing a 220-volt outlet for quicker home charging. The 100-plus-degree Texas heat could also have hampered charging. Hot or cold, EVs don’t like extreme temperatures and EV buyers should take that into consideration.

Removing the charge chord required unlocking the vehicle and while this seemed bothersome at first, considering the rise in stolen charge cables, perhaps it’s worth the bother, especially for those without a garage.

For added convenience, however, Remote Charging capabilities, including checking the charge status, are also included with Remote Connect on the bZ4X and one year of unlimited complimentary charging at all EVgo-owned and operated public charging stations nationwide.

Pricing for the 2023 bZ4X starts at $43,350. The as-tested price came to $52,468.

Sí: The bZ4X comes with a healthy list of premium and convenience features.

No: The electric range is not competitive, especially when charging on a 110v outlet.

Toyota and SHPE Award Latino Scholars

Noticias Comments Off

Mar 022023

Nunca Pares Scholarship winners, (left to right): Tyler McBride, Sr. manager, Brand, Growth Audiences, Cross Vehicle Line Marketing, Vehicle Marketing and Communications, Toyota Motor North America; Ruben Bonett, Giana Aguilar-Valencia, and Maximiliano Pombo Hernández.

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Toyota’s Nunca Pares (Never Settle) Scholarship campaign, in partnership with the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), has awarded three Latino students with a $25,000 scholarship each.

The scholars were celebrated at a ceremony held at Toyota’s North American headquarters in Plano, Texas on February 28:

Giana Aguilar-Valencia – Junior at DePaul University, studying computer science
Ruben Bonett – Junior at Texas A&M University, College Station, studying electrical engineering
Maximiliano Pombo – Junior at Texas A&M University, College Station, studying computer science

With these scholarships, Toyota joins SHPE in the shared mission of expanding science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) opportunities for Hispanic-heritage students. Each student demonstrated unyielding determination to making their dreams come true.

“We recognize these students for their commitment to creating solutions for a better tomorrow,” said Tellis Bethel, group vice president, Social Innovation, Toyota Motor North America. “Driving educational opportunities to Hispanic students is important to the development of future innovations for a more equitable and sustainable society. We’re excited to see how far these students go and to have the opportunity be a part of their continued educational journey.”

For more than 20 years, Toyota has engaged with SHPE on a regional and national level, including participation in their national conference. Toyota’s college programs with SHPE encompass recruitment efforts, co-ops, internships and scholarships.

“We’re excited to see this scholarship opportunity come to life for our members thanks to Toyota,” stated Monique Herrera, chief external relations officer, SHPE. “The Toyota Nunca Pares Scholarship gives these students the opportunity to continue pursuing their higher education goals by providing much needed financial support so they can achieve their dreams.”

Katya Echazarreta joined the ceremony to share her inspiring story. As an electrical engineer and the first Mexican-born woman to travel to space, Katya’s journey to becoming one of the youngest women in space exemplifies her resolve to be an example of success for others pursuing a career in STEM.

Toyota’s Nunca Pares brand campaign celebrates Latino’s collective spirit of pushing forward, to never give up on achieving their goals, regardless of the challenges. It was developed by Toyota’s marketing agency, Conill.

Sports Car Review: 2022 Toyota GR Supra

Reviews, Toyota Comments Off

Nov 232022

While Toyota excels at reliability, some say that accomplishment comes at the expense of an appealing design, but there’s at least one model in the lineup that represents the exception to that rule, the 2022 GR Supra. Latino Traffic Report recently drove the GR Supra 2.0 and it rumbles and speeds with the aplomb of a sports car, plus it looks good too.

To truly compete in the segment, a sports car needs to be fast. The Supra achieves this with a zero to 60 of 4.1 seconds. While the test model was powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbo engine with 255 horsepower and a 295 lb.-ft. of torque matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, a straight-six 3.0-litre engine with 335 hp/365 lb.-ft. of torque is available and new for 2023, so is a six-speed intelligent manual transmission, ramping up its sporty appeal.

Sports cars should also hug the road, especially on curves. The GR Supra did so on Austin’s famed FM 2222 assisted by a double joint type McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension.

If at all possible, sports cars should sound like they mean it. The as-tested Supra’s 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbo engine had a very nice rumble. It also had an EPA estimated fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. It averaged 28.6 mpg on the test drive.

As a base model, the 2.0 is a bit challenged when it comes to standard safety features but it did include auto-leveling headlights and pre-collision and lane departure warning. More sophisticated technology like a blind spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors came with the Safety and Technology package ($3,485). That’s a pricey investment and these features remain optional throughout the line-up, even on the top-of-the-line A9-CF with the manual transmission.

The interior included Alcantara seats with leather trim, a digital gauge cluster and 8.8-inch touchscreen display with a three-month subscription to XM satellite radio. It had knobs to making engaging the infotainment system easier but when programming preset channels, it was less than intuitive.

Don’t expect roominess or much storage capacity, that’s not where sports cars excel. But on the test drive, it seems a hand can get caught by the trunk lid. While it didn’t break any bones, it did bring up a daunting idea—there’s no exterior latch to release it so without the key fob in your pocket or a friend to release the trunk from the inside, a person could remain caught until he or she can flag down help. So be careful and don’t let your hand linger near the trunk.

Pricing for the 2022 GR-Supra starts at $43,645. The as-tested price came to $47,845.

Sí: The GR Supra perform as a sports car should and the combination of speed, performance, and rumble will put a smile on your face.

No: Be care of that trunk lid and safety features like the blind spot monitor should not be stuck in such a pricey optional package.

LTR Annual Truck Guide

Features Comments Off

Sep 262022

Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the auto industry have evolved from a fad to a trend that even includes the light duty pick-up segment. EV trucks, however, have just entered the market, and as such, Latino Traffic Report (LTR) has yet to get the chance to drive one but that doesn’t mean we will skip producing our annual truck guide. LTR tested the following models that many truck buyers might like to consider for their capability and strength.

Toyota Tundra Limited CrewMax 4×4

Headlamp detail.

Redesigned for 2022, the Toyota Tundra (above) continues to establish itself within the formidable full-size truck segment. Toyota took this redesign seriously, starting with a new, aggressive exterior, then adding more competitive capability.

The V8 engine has been replaced by a 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo, like the one on the test model, with 389 hp and 479 ft.–lb. of torque and a towing capacity of 12,000 pounds. With underseat storage in the back, maximum payload comes to 1,940 lbs.

Fuel economy has also improved to an EPA estimated 17 miles per gallon in the city (mpg) and 22 mpg on the highway. LTR averaged 16.7 mpg on the test drive. The hybrid version offers even more power and capability.

The test model or Tundra Limited CrewMax (four door), also included the available 14-inch touchscreen with the infotainment system that was very easy to program.

One of the most comfortable rides in the segment the Tundra now comes in a fully boxed frame that improves ride rigidity and capability.

Safety features on the test model included a blind spot monitor, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 with dynamic radar cruise control, pre-collision and pedestrian detection, and a rear seat reminder.

The test model was not without premium features like heated/cooled quilted seating as well as a heated steering wheel and the TRD Off-road Package ($3,085).

Toyota’s Texas-built truck also earned recognition from the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) who named it the Truck of Texas at its 2021 Truck Rodeo. This recognition was a first for the Tundra. It even scored a thumbs up from some tall Texans, not with TAWA, who took the time to give it a once over during the test drive.

Pricing starts at $35,950. The as tested MSRP came to $60,318.

Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew Cab LTD LTZ 4WD

Redesigned in 2019, the Silverado gets significantly updated for 2022, offering more choices, technology and premium accents. LTR drove the Silverado 1500 Crew Cab (four door) LTD LTZ.

Powered by four available engines including an enhanced version of the 2.7-liter turbo high-output four-cylinder engine, the test model came with the 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel inline six capable of 277 hp and 460 ft.–lb. of torque and matched to a ten-speed automatic transmission. This combination increases max towing by 4,000 lbs. to 13,300 lbs. plus it achieved an average fuel economy of 23.8 mpg on the test drive.

Adding to its capability, the Silverado has 89.1 cubic feet of standard cargo bed volume, 12 standard tie-downs, advanced trailering, plus the test model came with 120V power outlets in the bed and instrument panel. The test model also included the six-position Multi-Flex tailgate that configured into a step ladder for easier access to the bed. It took a little time to figure out, but once done it offered an essential leg-up, especially for the vertically challenged. The running boards were a plus too.

It came with the LTZ Texas Edition package ($3,160) that not only added Texas badging, a wise choice for selling a truck in Texas, but premium technology like wireless charging, adaptive cruise control, front pedestrian braking, and a safety seat that emitted a buzzing sensation under the thigh as a warning.

On the inside, the eight-inch-diagonal touchscreen (a 13.4-inch is available) engaged Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Heated and cooled leather front seats, a heated steering wheel, and Bose premium audio elevated the high-end feel on the test model. The oddest feature, however, was a full-time digital rearview mirror. Unlike a backup or sideview camera, the rearview camera stayed on throughout the drive, which proved a bit distracting. Luckily, it can be turned off to return to a traditional mirror.

Pricing starts at $36,795. The as-tested price came to $64,485.

Ford F-250 SRW 4×4 Crew Cab

While a redesign is rumored for 2023, the current model continues to set standards for capability in the segment. Known as heavy duties, Ford prefers to term its three-quarter and one-ton trucks “Super Duty.” Due to the rigors these big trucks face, the F-250 comes in six configurable trim levels for multiple applications. LTR drove the F-250 Lariat 4×4 Crew Cab (four door).

As mentioned, these are working trucks, although more and more are becoming family vehicles too, so capability is king. The F-450 is available with best-in-class maximum gooseneck towing of up to 37,000 pounds. The test model, however, had a max towing of 15,000 lbs. and payload of 3,550 lbs.

There are three available engines, a 6.2-liter V8, a 7.3-liter V8, and the as-tested third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V8 that delivers best-in-class 475 hp and 1,050 ft.–lbs. of torque. It was matched to an all-new 10-speed heavy-duty TorqShift automatic transmission.

With a 21-inch drop from the front seat, running boards will be essential for low statured folks, which the testmodel did include, as well as adjustable pedals, the ladder in the tailgate as part of the Lariat Ultimate Package ($3,495), and a tailgate drop button for added convenience.

For added confidence when behind the wheel of such a massive vehicle, a blind spot monitor and reverse sensing with a reverse camera were included. The available Pro Trailer Backup Assist also came with the test model for an added $2,730.

The standard FordPass Connect comes with a 4G LTE modem with Wi-Fi access for up to ten devices and charge up with wireless charging and USB-C ports.

As an added perk, the test model included an average fuel efficiency calculator, despite the fact that the EPA does not currently require city and highway fuel economy estimates on its Monroney. That rule may change in 2027. The test model averaged 18.6 mpg.

Pricing starts at $41,240. With $29,815 worth of optional features, including $10,495 for the diesel engine , the as-tested pricing came to $82,245.