Pilgrim Motor Press - An Automotive Engineer's Point of View

2020 Honda CR-V

For every model redesign, there is an expectation that the new version has naturally inherited the best traits of the previous generations while also continuing to push the design forward into the next era. It’s a simple formula in concept, however, it is not always easy to pull-off.

Older generations of the CR-V featured clever design details, spacious cabins, and were engaging to drive and that’s very much how one can describe this generation as well. However, now the CR-V design’s later years, it feels a step behind its rivals’ premium feel yet it can’t be beaten when it comes to ultimate utility and driver engagement.

2020 Toyota Highlander

With expectations of a new design every five years, the automotive market doesn’t take kindly to models that don’t continuously push their boundaries. That is especially true of the crossover market, where an ever-increasing number of new players means that even the Toyota Highlander, the segment’s best selling model since 2016, needs to take some calculated risk.

And sure enough, the Toyota Highlander went big with its 2020 redesign and is impressive in nearly every regard.

2020 Toyota Corolla Hatchback

As one would rightfully suspect, the Corolla Hatchback has a lot in common with the Corolla sedan (which is a good thing) but one peek around at its backside, and it becomes instantly clear that the stylists went for some added edge. The focus on styling may have cost some utility points but for the individual seeking practicality and a sense of individuality, the “HB” is an appealing small car.

2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon EcoDiesel

Putting context to the phrase: “It’s a Jeep Thing”.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Ecodiesel

There is a bond between people whose sense of off-road adventure has brought them to the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. It’s simply diagnosed as “a Jeep Thing” but what does it mean?

It may be beyond me to pin it down, but after experiencing the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with the all-new 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel, I at least came away with a better understanding.

Here are my eleven most distinguishing take-aways.

2020 Nissan Frontier Receives a Surprising Update

As the 2020 Nissan Frontier rolls down the assembly line for one final year looking very much the same as it did 15 years ago, there’s a significant upgrade hiding underneath in the form of an all-new powertrain. Even though it may be the result of fortunate timing of events rather than some sort of farewell tribute, the Frontier’s notable improvements in power, emissions cleanliness, and fuel efficiency are certainly worth a celebratory dance.

Kia Niro EV

Practical, powerful, and efficient, the Niro EV is easy to like although the current charging rate from commonly found charging stations means there’s still some pre-planning necessary – especially for longer trips away from a guaranteed charging spot. With an unlimited range of near guilt-free power, the Niro EV is a pretty fun runabout, while its crossover styling cues and an interior with physical buttons and knobs make it feel instantly familiar.

But before stepping into the land of power plugs and kWh, here are ten EV-specific characteristics that are worth knowing:

2020 Chevrolet Equinox AWD Premier 2.0T

The Chevrolet Equinox competes in the same segment as the venerable Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 where high-quality designs, materials, and assembly are expected. Its strong sales might indicate that Chevrolet has landed a home run, however, taking a closer look shows that there are a lot of opportunities for improvement.

2020 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport Touring

The Civic constantly reminds me of how good of a car it is. Not only is it available in many different flavors – coupe, sedan, and hatchback form with regular, sporty, and super sporty performances, but its the quick-reacting chassis, ergonomically friendly controls, and a plethora of storage cubbies are what make the Civic a very easy car to enjoy.

However, its aging design and the continued onslaught of newer competition have revealed several blemishes in its armor and some of those shortcomings are noticeable during everyday use. But are they significant enough to ruin the charm of this Hatchback Sport Touring model?

2020 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser is unquestionably over-built for typical day-to-day commuting though simply knowing that “it can” is a big part of its allure. Its reputation as being one of the most dependable over-landing adventure vehicles in existence is held with little debate, however, as its capabilities have increased with each successive generation, so has its size, price, and appetite for fuel – almost to absurdity. Is it still relevant in today’s climate where SUV’s require fewer compromises than ever before? That’s what I set out to determine.

2020 Ford Ranger Lariat

Right off the bat, let’s note that this is a very different truck than what Ford last sold as a Ranger in 2011. That specific design had become very familiar because it went unchanged in the U.S. for most of the ’90s and 2000s. Taking a look at this 2020 Ranger, it couldn’t be much more different. From its swept-back windshield and high shoulders to the efficient and powerful powertrain, the latest Ranger represents today’s world view of what a mid-size pickup should be, but does that work for America?