Automotive Reviews
Archived
Back-catalog of reviews written before 2008.
2005 Honda Accord Hybrid
Nov 23rd
Honda’s Accord has a well-deserved reputation as the Dell or Hewlett-Packard PC of the automotive world, offering years of largely maintenance-free, high-tech service without any pesky need to know exactly how it works. The Accord doesn’t talk to you, and doesn’t want to; it wants to go about its business and leave you free to go about yours.
Had it not been our job to do so, we might not have even noticed that the last Accord to grace the test fleet was a hybrid-electric car. Following in the footsteps of the Honda Insight and Civic Hybrid, the new-for-2005 Accord Hybrid brings improved fuel efficiency to the middle class. Offering improved fuel economy and emissions and giving up almost nothing in return, the Accord Hybrid is about as close to a win-win prospect as you can get these days. More >
2006 Ford Explorer
Nov 23rd
How does a vehicle remain the best-seller for fifteen years, especially in a category that’s as hotly contested as the mid-size SUV market? Easy–by being the most versatile vehicle out there. Considering that there are about two hundred SUVs currently on the market, that’s saying something.
The Ford Explorer has always done a great job of filling the roles of several vehicles at once. It’s a family hauler, a rugged towing vehicle and a capable off-roader, all at the same time. For 2006, what looks like a light revision is actually a thorough reworking. This SUV’s body may look more or less the same behind those revised headlights, but the frame and interior are all-new. Don’t worry, Explorer fans, the truck’s versatility hasn’t changed, but some of its more annoying habits are no more. More >
2005 Ford Expedition King Ranch
Nov 23rd
Ford’s multi-talented Expedition SUV is competent, powerful, and updated for 2005 with a host of evolutionary improvements. This full-size SUV is more efficient, more powerful and safer, if not particularly exciting to the eyes. That’s probably part of the reason that Ford has expanded the F-150′s King Ranch trim package to the Expedition for 2005. New engines and electronic throttle control probably don’t excite Joe Consumer, but saddle-style Castano leather and big, Texas-style badges are sure to grab his eye.
Roomy and quiet, the Expedition is able to please trailer-towers and soccer moms alike. The design is conservative, with a boxy face and molded body-sides, and there are so many Expeditions running around that one barely notices them at the curb any more. The square, upright design is favored by customizers because it’s one of the few vehicles that doesn’t look completely cartoonish rolling on 22″ or 24″ wheels. The Expedition is available in six trim levels. More >