Pilgrim Motor Press

2020 Toyota Yaris

First off, the 2019 Toyota Yaris is a legitimate car. It may seem silly to state, but the decades of rental econoboxes have really tainted the small car image. The small Toyota hatchback can easily handle the daily demands of American life, from navigating tight parking, providing entertainment during the endless rush hour traffic, and even hauling a week’s worth of groceries or a trip to Home Depot. But is there enough charm in its minimalistic approach to put aside preconceived notions and ask the question of why not?

2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Known simply as the GTI, the small hatchback has earned an unyielding following. After spending time with the GTI, the power and refinement somehow made up for the quality shortcomings and I looked forward to every drive – even if it was during a brief snowstorm.

2019 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL

When it came time to redesign the Tiguan, VW’s image of the North American-market guided the design and specifications. It went from being one of the shortest five-seaters in the segment to be one of the longest – even allowing for an optional third row. The Tiguan seems to have traded in its enthusiasm for curves to become a natural highway cruiser.

Concept meets Production – Audi Q8

Luxurious goods like rear-wheel steering, soft leather, and a plethora of HD display screens grab the headlines but there’s another level of luxury found in the details that is equally as impressive.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the design of the Q8.

2019 Audi Q8

There are so many fields where the Audi Q8 illustrates its luxury car status, including its near -$90k price tag. In this market, the car has to perform not just as expected, but become a place that continuously impresses. The Q8 is a car about the details and minimizes any appearance of cost-savings.

2019 Honda Passport Elite

The all-new 2019 Honda Passport lands in the sweet spot between the smaller CR-V and larger Pilot. This particular space is becoming more relevant as consumer shift towards crossovers is unlikely to slow down. By utilizing much of the design and engineering of the Pilot, the Passport becomes more of a question of “Why not?” for the Honda exec’s. But does the Passport feel simply like an adaptation of the Pilot or did the development team create a uniquely themed product that can stand on its own?

2019 Toyota Prius XLE AWD-e

Many brands hope to develop instant name recognition but few have had their product’s distinct silhouette become synonymous with an entire category. The Prius has earned a place as the symbol of hybrid cars with its efficiency-focus engineering and now, it reaches into the all-wheel-drive arena with a motorized rear axle to better meet customer demand, of which, Toyota states, could make upward of a quarter of Prius sales.

2019 Honda Civic Touring

The 2019 Honda Civic is a slam-dunk, benchmark for the class. Its modern looks, expansive interior, excellent chassis dynamics, and powerful and efficient powertrain are a full package that has few faults. The previous-generation Civic took a dark turn after the great recession when Honda believed buyers would prefer a low cost, blend-in with the masses character. Thankfully, that era is behind us, and the current 10th generation will go down in history as one of the best Civics of all time.

2019 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk

The 2019 Jeep Renegade may not seem like it has received much of an update, but a new more powerful engine strengthens what was this once small ute’s weakest link.

Quick Trip: 2020 Outback Onyx Edition XT

2020 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT – $37,750 MPG: 23 City, 30 Highway

Its looks are immediately “Outback”, but this re-design is anything but a phone-in. The 2020 Outback Onyx XT rides on a new platform, carries more advanced features, and a high-class interior that all work together to achieve a more comfortable and livable daily ride that goes without taking away its ruggedness and capability – characteristic traits for this Outback. It’s a tricky formula that others have tried without achieving the same level of success.