Automakers launch a renewed wave of budget-minded models as priced-out customers seek less expensive ways to get a new vehicle for themselves.
Consumer Guides
More Affordable Jeep Wagoneer S Limited Makes Surprise Chicago Debut
If you’ve been looking at one of the new Jeep Wagoner S Launch Edition models but can’t quite get your head around the $71,995 starting price – before factoring in delivery fees – the off-road brand rolled out a more affordable option at the Chicago Auto Show Thursday, the Wagoneer S Limited. And while it may be more than $6,000 cheaper, the “mid-range” model still has a lot going for it, starting with a 500-hp all-wheel-drive electric drivetrain. Headlight.News has more on the new model – and other Jeep news.
First Look: 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
Subaru is upping its game with the next-gen Forester Hybrid making its debut at the Chicago Auto Show. It introduces a newly developed “strong” hybrid system that not only delivers as much as 10 mpg better fuel economy but enhances the performance of the brand’s familiar Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system for go-anywhere traction. Headlight.News has more.
First Look: 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is Ready for Adventure
Subaru has built a reputation for providing go-anywhere vehicles – and it’s taken things to the next level with the introduction of its Wilderness line-up, off-road-oriented models equipped with beefier tires, higher ground clearance and other upgrades. At this week’s Chicago Auto Show, we got a first look at the latest entry, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness.
First Drive: Lexus LX 700h Delivers More Power, Better Mileage – and New Off-Road Package
Lexus adds a new hybrid to its line-up with the launch of the 2025 LX 700h. It boosts mileage, of course, but delivers more muscle, as well. The new SUV flagship takes things to new levels of luxury while also introducing a beefier new off-road package. But expect to...
Study Finds Automatic Emergency Braking Cuts Front-Rear Crashes in Half — But Automakers Are Suing to Block it From Being Standard
The car in front of you slams on the brakes. But you’re busy adjusting your vehicle’s climate settings and don’t notice. Luckily, your SUV is equipped with automatic emergency braking. It flashes a warning on the windshield, blares an alert and then slams on the brakes without your assistance, preventing a crash. A new study finds that vehicles with AEB technology are 49% less likely to be involved in front-to-rear crashes. Yet, a trade group representing a broad list of automakers has sued the federal government over rules that would make sure the technology is a standard feature by 2029.
Trump Tariffs Threaten Auto Industry’s Vast Manufacturing System and Could Mean a Big Hit for Buyers
Pres. Donald Trump has warned he may announce tariffs of up to 25% against two major trade partners, Canada and Mexico, as early as Saturday, February 1. Additional tariffs targeting China may also be announced. The potential impact could be felt far and wide — especially in the auto industry, with manufacturers facing a threat to profits and consumers facing the risk of higher prices. Some familiar vehicles could also disappear from the market, especially entry-level models.
VW Pulls the Plug on U.S. Version of the ID.7 EV
Volkswagen is the latest automaker to back off on its EV roll-out. The automaker told Headlight.News that “due to the ongoing challenging EV market” it has scrapped plans to introduce the ID.7 sedan to the U.S. market – though it will continue to be offered in Europe, China and a number of other markets.
Better Range, more Power, Lower Price for 2026 BMW iX
BMW is making some big news with the 2026 update of its battery-electric iX. The crossover will arrive in showrooms mid-year with a new base package that comes in about $10,000 less than the outgoing package. And while the 2026 BMW iX may not get much in the way of design changes, the “mid-cycle” refresh does deliver what EV buyers are most likely to appreciate: better range and improved performance.
First Drive: 2025 Toyota 4Runner – Something for Everybody
If you’re planning to check out the 2025 Toyota 4Runner be prepared for choice overload. Not only has the automaker given the midsize SUV a complete makeover but it’s added more trim packages — including a 1st-ever Trailhunter. But once you sort through the nine options you’ll find a competent option for whatever your needs as, as Headlight.News discovered during a first drive. Here’s our review.
Jeep Boss Intends to “Grow the Brand Back”
Jeep is making one of the riskiest moves in its storied history, rolling out its first global EV, the Wagoneer S. It will be followed by a flood of new models this coming year, part of a push by the off-road marque to “grow the brand back” after several unexpectedly disappointing years. Headlight.News looks at what Jeep has coming and how it will face its ongoing challenges.
First Drive: Jeep Wagoneer S Electrifies on First Drive
The new Jeep Wagoner S marks a major milestone for the Stellantis off-road brand as its first global all-electric vehicle. The 2-row SUV made its debut in New York last May but we’ve only now gotten a chance to see whether it can deliver on all its promises. To find out, Headlight.News headed out to San Diego this past weekend to put the electric Jeep through its paces.