Model Tested: 2015 Lexus LX570 5-door SUV Engine: 5.7-liter V-8 gas, 383 horsepower 403 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, full-time four-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 12/City—17/Highway—14/Combined Base Price: $82,930 As Tested: $90,720 Performance: Very smooth, powerful V-8 Ample torque Smooth, solid highway ride Confidence … read more

One of my favorite small crossover SUVs — the Honda CR-V — got a facelift for 2015. Five trim levels are offered with no options, and a new, top-of-the-line Touring model debuts. The functional, compact crossover boasts room for five adults and lots … read more

Model Tested: 2015 Chrysler 200S AWD Engine: 3.6-liter V-6 gas, 295 horsepower 262 lb-ft torque Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission all-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 18/City—29/Highway—22/Combined  Base Price: $28,925  As Tested: $35,985  Performance: Excellent V-6 engine Very good acceleration Paddle shifters Smooth highway ride Sporty AWD … read more

 Model Tested: 2015 Ford Transit 250 HR (high roof)  Engine: 3.2-liter I-5 turbo diesel, 185 horsepower 350 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, rear-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 18/City—25/Highway (estimated; EPA ratings not required) Base Price: $35,285 As Tested: $45,945 Performance: Excellent torque Good acceleration Smooth, … read more

When Akio Toyoda became president and CEO of Toyota, one of his very first public pronouncements was, “Toyota will build no more boring cars.” So far, he’s been a man of his word. The 2014 Avalon — the first built under his regime … read more

Model Tested: 2015 Infiniti Q60S Coupe LTD Engine: 3.7-liter V-6, 330 horsepower 270 lb-ft torque Transmission: 7-speed automatic, rear-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 19/City—27/Highway—22 Combined Base Price: $49,650 As Tested: $50,925 Performance: Sport tuned performance suspension Athletic handling, but not harsh Great open road touring … read more

Model Tested: 2015 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD Z71 Crew Short Box Engine: 3.6-liter V-6, 305 horsepower 269 lb-ft torque  Transmission: 6-speed automatic, four-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 17/City—24/Highway—20 Combined Base Price: $34,115 As Tested: $36,710 Performance: Solid performance; strong, but not a sports car Pleasant highway … read more

 Model Tested: 2015 Subaru WRX  Engine: 2.0-liter flat-4 Boxer, 268 horsepower 258 lb-ft torque  Transmission: 6-speed manual, all-wheel-drive  EPA Ratings: 17/City—23/Highway  Base Price: $29,695  As Tested: $30,490  Performance: Exhilarating power Very responsive turbocharger Even more exhilarating handling Excellent all-wheel-drive all-weather traction Nimble Great … read more

Model Tested: 2015 Nissan NV200 Cargo Van SV Engine: 2.0-liter I-4, 131 horsepower 139 lb-ft torque Transmission: CVT automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 24/City—26/Highway—25/Combined Base Price: $21,710 As Tested: $24,345 Performance: Passable power Strong side winds can be problematic Smooth CVT transmission Impressive fuel … read more