Argomenti trattati
Time passes quickly, and it is difficult to believe a year has gone by since I welcomed my Subaru WRX. I celebrated its purchase, and now I am replacing the brake pads for the second time. The car has not accumulated excessive mileage, but several spirited laps at the Virginia International Raceway (VIR) contributed to its wear. While upgrading to over 300 horsepower would be thrilling, the existing 271 horsepower is more than adequate, especially as my eldest learns to drive.
This past year also saw me bid farewell to my Daihatsu Rocky and welcome a 2000 Land Rover Discovery into my garage. Selling the Rocky was bittersweet, but the Discovery has yet to evoke any sorrow. My driving adventures continued as I tested numerous new vehicles and wrote several reviews. However, some intriguing insights often go unreported, such as the curious hidden flap in the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack labeled ‘VIN.’ Let us explore my 2025 Year in Review.
The facts
Recently, I had the opportunity to test drive the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness. Its unhurried acceleration reminded me of the much quicker 2003 Forester 2.5 XT, which achieved a thrilling 0-to-60 mph time of just 5.3 seconds, thanks to its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. In contrast, the latest model uses a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder, producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid variant stands out, generating 194 horsepower.
Shifting horsepower dynamics
It is interesting to compare the horsepower trends of the Forester over the years. While buyers may prioritize practicality, it is unusual to see a model lose horsepower over time. The 2006 Forester 2.5 XT Limited had a robust 230 horsepower, making it perplexing that today’s models have lower figures. If this downward trend continues, we could witness the 2046 Forester drop to a mere 130 horsepower, which is less than the standard 1991 Legacy. This raises questions about the future of performance in compact SUVs.
Innovative electric vehicle features
One exciting aspect of modern electric vehicles (EVs) is their design flexibility, particularly regarding the front end. Unlike traditional vehicles, many EVs do not require a grille, allowing manufacturers to experiment with aesthetics. For example, the GMC Sierra EV features an impressive light display when unlocking the vehicle, transforming the front into a dynamic light show. This innovation adds flair to everyday driving and enhances the EV experience.
Vehicle-to-load capabilities
Another underappreciated feature of some EVs is their ability to function as a mobile power source, known as vehicle-to-load (V2L). I tested this capability with a Kia EV6, attempting to power a saw on a job site. Unfortunately, the saw proved too powerful for the EV6’s V2L system, tripping the circuit. However, it sparked a conversation, with one worker humorously noting, “Wait until the Amish hear about generators on wheels.”
Technological advancements in engines
During my test of the 2026 Nissan Murano, I experienced the unique power delivery of the VC-Turbo engine. This innovative engine employs a variable compression ratio, allowing it to adapt its performance dynamically. Despite its complexity, it caters to mass-market appeal, powering various models, including the Rogue and Altima.
Recalls and reliability
Nissan issued a recall for previous VC-Turbo engines due to potential bearing failures, but the risk appears minimal, given the low number of warranty claims. With production numbers nearing 780,000, the VC-Turbo has maintained a solid reputation compared to other manufacturers facing their own challenges.
A glimpse into charging infrastructure
Last summer, a set of Tesla Superchargers was installed at a local grocery store, coinciding with the rise of the North American Charge Standard. My first experience charging a non-Tesla vehicle, a Ford Lightning Flash, revealed issues with charge port placement, complicating connections to the Supercharger. This highlights the need for better design in charge port locations to enhance user experience.
Charging speed disparities
Charging speeds vary significantly among vehicles connected to Tesla chargers. While some models can achieve over 150 kW, I experienced significantly lower speeds with a Lucid Air Touring, which barely reached 47 kW. This inconsistency raises questions about the charging ecosystem and its fairness towards competing brands.
What’s next
This past year also saw me bid farewell to my Daihatsu Rocky and welcome a 2000 Land Rover Discovery into my garage. Selling the Rocky was bittersweet, but the Discovery has yet to evoke any sorrow. My driving adventures continued as I tested numerous new vehicles and wrote several reviews. However, some intriguing insights often go unreported, such as the curious hidden flap in the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack labeled ‘VIN.’ Let us explore my 2025 Year in Review.0
This past year also saw me bid farewell to my Daihatsu Rocky and welcome a 2000 Land Rover Discovery into my garage. Selling the Rocky was bittersweet, but the Discovery has yet to evoke any sorrow. My driving adventures continued as I tested numerous new vehicles and wrote several reviews. However, some intriguing insights often go unreported, such as the curious hidden flap in the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack labeled ‘VIN.’ Let us explore my 2025 Year in Review.1