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      in Car Reviews

      Rough Trail Ahead: 2020 Ford Ranger Level 3 Off-Road Package

      by

      Recent rains have changed the trail. Runoff from the nearby peaks combined with gusty winds have increased the severity of the terrain since the last time we drove a truck through here. The ruts are larger, the sandy sections are deeper, and new rocks, some the size of beanbag chairs, have found their way into our path. As Mike Tyson said, “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth,” and the Mojave Desert just landed an uppercut.
      If we were driving a standard-issue 2020 Ford Ranger with the FX4 off-road package, we’d undoubtedly spit some blood on the canvas and grow a set of wings. But this Ranger is fitted with the Level 3 Off-Road package, which not only increases its ground clearance but adds power, a set of 32-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires, and a front-end battering ram, which Ford prefers to call a powder-coated steel front bumper. Until Ford decides to sell the Ranger Raptor in the United States and really take on the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, and Jeep Gladiator Mojave, this is as off-road capable as its mid-size Ford pickup gets.

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      Jessica Lynn WalkerCar and Driver

      Dirty Looks: Ranger Level 1 Off-Road Package

      Ford Ranger Gets Badass Off-Road Packages

      This is a sequel of sorts. A few weeks ago, we reviewed the 2020 Ford Ranger Level 1, which is available now, along with the also cleverly named Level 2 Off Road package. Ford says the Level 3 package will be available next summer and will include everything you get in the Level 1 and 2 packages (essentially, the lift and extra power) plus a winch-capable bumper supplied by ARB, a Ford Performance chase rack that bolts to the top of the bed, a Rigid 40-inch LED lightbar, and a Ford Performance exhaust. The additional hardware not only adds function but also greatly increases the pickup’s intimidation factor. Sedan drivers skedaddle like frightened children when this Ranger fills their mirrors.
      All three packages include suspension hardware that lifts the Ranger’s front end by about two inches, leveling off its stance and increasing ground clearance. New stiffer-than-FX4 front springs are paired with Fox Racing dampers. But don’t confuse these 2.0-inch monotube dampers with the beefier units fitted to the F-150 Raptor, Ranger Raptor, Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, or the Jeep Gladiator Mojave. Those 2.5-inchers feature an internal bypass and remote reservoirs for even more control. Level 2 and 3 Rangers also include a butch set of dark-gray wheels shod with knobby BFGs that measure 265/70R-17. Up front, ground clearance improves to 11.8 inches, and rear clearance climbs from 8.9 inches to 9.8.

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      Jessica Lynn WalkerCar and Driver

      Mark Wilson, Ford’s vehicle personalization manager, is quick to point out that the shock tuning is the work of Ford Performance, not Fox. It isn’t exactly their best work. The ride is firm on the highway and over most trails, and the rear suspension, which retains its factory leaf springs, kicks you up out of the seat. Big shots and landings are handled well, but it doesn’t soak up the terrain as much as beat it into submission, bludgeoning you and your passengers along the way. Basically, it’s bouncy and doesn’t deliver the supple ride of a Raptor.
      You can pound your way through high-speed fire roads at a respectable 30-35 mph, but the Ranger’s aging chassis and cab structure, which date to 2011, quiver like they’ve been put in a paint shaker. Over rough, whooped-up sections, your pace is limited to just 10 mph as the front end pogos violently. Any faster and you risk damage as it begins to crash down on its bump stops.

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      Jessica Lynn WalkerCar and Driver

      The modded Ranger is a capable climber, though. Even with the transfer case in two-wheel drive, you can lock the rear end and make your way up grades that would require four-wheel drive in some other trucks. Although its wheel travel and suspension articulation lag most of its rivals, that locking rear differential (part of the FX4 package) and additional ground clearance save its bacon. Compared to a stock Ranger, the Level 3’s approach angle improves from 28.7 degrees to 34.8 degrees—improving on the Ranger Raptor’s 32.5 degrees—and its breakover angle goes from 21.5 degrees to a very respectable 23.8 degrees, besting the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon on that metric. Although it’s still without a locking front differential, which is standard on a Colorado ZR2 and Gladiator Rubicon, Level 3 scrambles its way up almost any hill when you drop it into low-range four-wheel drive.
      While the Ranger’s terrain-management system lacks a dedicated rock-crawling mode (oddly, it includes one for grass), that bulldog front bumper radically improves its ability to navigate a rock garden. Fabricated from 0.2-inch plate, it only adds about 20 pounds to the nose of the truck, and its angled corners help expose the front tires so they can climb up and over large obstacles.

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      Jessica Lynn WalkerCar and Driver

      Be careful, though: The skid plate beneath that bumper is weak sauce compared to the thick aluminum piece Toyota bolts to the front of a Tacoma TRD Pro. The thin steel plate does cover most of the Ford’s front end, and there’s another that protects the transfer case, but the rear differential is naked and vulnerable. We scraped it on rocks and dragged it along the ground more than once without issue, but regular trail runners will want some aftermarket armor. We also skillfully dinged up those Dyno Gray wheels. Their angled spokes look great, but they protrude proud of the tire sidewall and easily kiss rocks. Alloy grinding over granite is not a pleasant sound.
      When we hit a sandy wash, however, the upgraded Ranger felt most at home. The ride is rough here as well, but the Ranger is agile, its quick steering facilitating easy control of high-speed slides. The Level 2 and Level 3 packages also recalibrate the pickup’s turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four, increasing boost from 19.5 psi to 24.2 psi and horsepower from 270 to 315. Torque climbs from 310 pound-feet to 370. What’s more, the usable power is moved lower in the rpm range, with the EcoBoost’s power peak arriving 1000 rpm sooner and its torque peak 500 rpm lower. You will need to use premium fuel, 91 octane or higher, to unlock that extra boost.

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      Jessica Lynn WalkerCar and Driver

      There’s still some turbo lag off idle, which is most noticeable in the slowest crawling maneuvers. In the paved world, the 2.3-liter always supplies enough thrust and the 10-speed transmission is ready with the right gear, especially in Sport mode, which holds lower ratios longer. The exhaust system isn’t going to win any Grammys, but it doesn’t drone on the highway like Toyota’s TRD system.
      The last Ranger four-by-four we tested hit 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and covered the quarter-mile in 15.0 seconds. This truck should come close to matching those numbers. Ford says fuel economy also shouldn’t be affected. “I had less than a 0.5-mpg drop over 8000 miles in my personal truck,” Wilson said. “And I wasn’t babying it, I was enjoying it.”
      Most buyers are expected to have their Ford dealer or a local four-by-four shop do the dirty work, but you can save quite a bit of scratch and install all the parts yourself. They fit any 2019 or 2020 Ranger four-wheeler. The kit even supplies DIYers with a tool to rejigger the speedometer and odometer to work with the taller tires.

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      Jessica Lynn WalkerCar and Driver

      Despite its imperfect suspension tuning, the Level 3 Off-Road package does improve the performance of the Ranger. The truck may have beaten us up a bit along the way, but it scraped and clawed its way through a seriously nasty trail that a standard Ranger FX4 could not have tackled. It’s disappointing that the Level 3 kit doesn’t include a locker for the front differential. “We thought,” Wilson explained, “that might take it beyond what the normal customer could install in his driveway with simple hand tools.”
      It would have also driven up the price, which already blows up the piggy bank. At $8995 not including installation, the Level 3 package costs twice as much as the Level 2 package, which is the best value of the three. And it cranked up the price of this Lariat-spec truck to $55,905. That’s F-150 Raptor money.
      Which one do you think Iron Mike would choose?

      Specifications

      Specifications
      2020 Ford Ranger SuperCrew Lariat 4×4 Ford Performance Level 3 
      VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, rear/4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door pickup
      BASE PRICE $44,585
      ENGINE turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.3-liter inline-4, 315 hp, 370 lb-ft
      TRANSMISSION 10-speed automatic
      DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 126.8 inLength: 210.8 inWidth: 73.3 inHeight (C/D est): 73.1 inCurb weight (C/D est): 4500 lb
      PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) 60 mph: 6.6 sec1/4 mile: 15.1 secTop speed: 110 mph

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      in Car Reviews

      2020 Osprey Defender Reimagines the Classic Land Rover Defender

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      Jeremy M. LangeCar and Driver

      Between 1993 and 1997, Land Rover imported fewer than 7000 Defender 90s to North America. If you want one, prepare to pay up; prime, low-mileage examples trade for around $100,000. Even the nicest North American Specification (NAS) Defender, however, is old enough to buy beer and wasn’t exactly a paragon of reliability on the day it arrived at the dealer lot. By now, even a good one will likely present leaks from above (the ill-sealing doors) and below (transmission, transfer case, and the 182-hp Rover V-8, which is actually a Buick aluminum-block design from the early 1960s). But what if you could have the Jeepy, er, blocky charm of an NAS D90 combined with modern horsepower and amenities for about the same price as a nice, used one? For those who care more about driving than originality, Osprey Custom Cars in Wilmington, North Carolina, builds some of the nicest Defenders that never were.
      Company founder Aaron Richardet began restoring Defenders in 2009 and eventually realized a truism that applies to any sufficiently thorough restoration: If you’re replacing nearly every component anyway, you may as well just start from scratch. “We’ll do it either way, as a restoration or from the ground up,” Richardet said, “but you end up at about the same price.”

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      Jeremy M. LangeCar and Driver

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      Defender parts are plentiful, and Osprey constructs its trucks from a combination of OEM, aftermarket, and rebuilt components. The frame of the truck we drove was new, galvanized and powder-coated (the old belt-and-suspenders approach to corrosion prevention). Its General Motors-sourced 5.3-liter V-8, while more modern than the NAS Rover V-8, was rebuilt. Richardet likes the 5.3-liter V-8 for Defender builds, but GM Performance doesn’t offer it as a crate engine. “The 5.3 is really perfect for Defenders,” he said. “GM had this engine dialed. It’s happy at the amount of power it makes, and it runs cool. You see plenty of Tahoes and Suburbans with these things in them running around with 300,000 miles.” As installed in this Defender, Osprey claims 325 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque.
      The 5.3-liter is hooked to a 6L80E six-speed automatic transmission that’s programmed to keep engine revs low unless you really hoof the throttle, in which case the stubby four-by-four unleashes a bellicose holler through its Cherry Bomb muffler and accelerates with an urgency totally at odds with its toolshed-on-wheels proportions. An automatic-equipped NAS Defender from the ’90s will frequently downshift out of top gear at highway speeds, its old Rover V-8 fighting ongoing skirmishes with the wind. The Osprey has no such problem, but high-speed interstate travel isn’t really its forte. You can build a Defender as fine as you please, but doing 75 mph in one will still feel like you’re riding Skylab out of orbit.
      It’s better to take it easy, roll down the front windows and unzip the plastic rear ones on the canvas top. Activate your heated seat if it’s chilly, crank some air conditioning if it’s not. The Osprey doesn’t offer the sophisticated luxury of, oh, a Jeep Wrangler, but it does marry that jaunty old-school Defender charisma with modern features: LED headlights, remote start, a 7.0-inch Pioneer touchscreen with a backup camera. The four side-facing rear seats mean that the Osprey seats six, provided the four in back don’t mind extended eye contact (or avoiding same). It’s an agreeable way to go get some ice cream.

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      Jeremy M. LangeCar and Driver

      While Osprey doesn’t offer an official warranty, there’s a tacit understanding that the company will support the product if gremlins creep up. Richardet and his team put shakedown miles on each new build, and in this case we helped with that. A two-hour highway drive exposed an occasional hiccup in the driveline that turned out to be a transmission calibration issue. Osprey worked it out after we surrendered the truck, since this one was on its way to its new owner the week after we sampled it. Even at more than $100,000, these trucks don’t linger long in the showroom.
      Osprey will build you a Defender considerably nuttier than this one—one recent LS3-powered Defender pickup cost nearly $200,000—as will companies like Himalaya and East Coast Defender. But at this price, in this spec, Osprey’s creation represents the Defender Singularity, the point where new and used prices intersect. You don’t get that Land Rover “Solihull Warwickshire” numbered build plate, but you do get power, reliability, and heated seats. The Osprey is also notable for what you don’t get. After driving it for two weeks, it didn’t leave a spot on our driveway.
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      in Car Reviews

      Tested: 2020 Porsche Macan GTS Settles the Ride-vs.-Handling Feud

      by

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      Michael SimariCar and Driver

      Chassis engineers have a tough and largely thankless job. Ride quality remains in a long-standing feud with handling, and the engineers’ job is to negotiate a peace that works for the vehicle and for the customer. After driving the 2020 Macan GTS, we’d say that Porsche’s engineers deserve a Nobel Peace Prize for brokering such a satisfyingly sporty compromise.

      HIGHS: Balanced chassis, steers like the sports cars, refined ride.

      There’s nothing particularly exotic about the suspension hardware. The Macan GTS comes standard with air springs paired to Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) adaptive dampers. The two are tuned and work to smooth broken pavement, and despite the optional 21-inch wheels with small sidewalls, the suspension never crashes or sends ugly vibrations through the structure. With the push of a console-mounted button (or a turn of the steering wheel-mounted dial, part of the $1360 Sport Chrono package), the dampers tighten just enough up to savagely attack corners. At the test track, the Michelin Latitude Sport 3 tires stick with stability up to the high 0.94-g lateral limit.

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      Michael SimariCar and Driver

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      Tested: New Macan Turbo Remains an SUV Benchmark

      Responsive and accurate steering seems to have been plucked right from a 718 GTS. Our German-spec test vehicle came equipped with the optional PSCB tungsten-coated brake rotors ($3490) that can be identified by their mirrored finish and white brake calipers. Porsche continues to dial in the pedal feel of this system. When it debuted on the Cayenne, the brakes felt grabby with too much initial bite. On the GTS, the brakes react with a firm and linear stroke. Stops from 70 mph occur in a sports-car-like 155 feet.

      LOWS: The engine lacks the punch and character of competitors, smallish rear seat, pricey.

      While we like the Macan GTS’s chassis, the powertrain isn’t as inspiring. The GTS uses the same twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 found in the Macan Turbo, tuned down from 434 horsepower to 375 horsepower in GTS trim. Porsche’s V-6 lacks the character and punch of the BMW X3 M’s twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six and the angry exhaust of Mercedes-AMG’s twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 that powers the GLC63. The GTS sprints from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and rips through the quarter-mile in 12.6 seconds at 107 mph—a Macan Turbo is 0.4 second quicker in both measures. Some credit for those stellar times goes to the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic’s launch-control system that revs the engine to 4600 rpm before engaging the clutch.

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      Michael SimariCar and Driver

      The Macan GTS starts at $72,650, a hefty $12,300 less than the Turbo. Spotters will be able to differentiate the Macan GTS by its blacked-out exterior trim and tinted LED light housings in the front and rear. On the inside, the interior is largely unchanged since the 2018 refresh. We particularly liked the faux-suede coverings on the door panels and center console as well as the inserts of the more aggressively bolstered, GTS-exclusive power seats. A lengthy list of options awaits buyers, and our test GTS came lavishly equipped at $98,160.
      Buyers will also have to accept a smallish rear seat in the Macan. Adults won’t be very comfortable back there. But if the Macan is replacing a sports car, that’s an easy compromise to make. If you’re coming from a more spacious SUV, bending on the Macan GTS’s rear-seat space brings the reward of a sublime ride-and-handling compromise that seems more than worth it to us.

      Specifications

      Specifications
      2020 Porsche Macan GTS
      VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
      PRICE AS TESTED $98,160 (base price: $72,650)
      ENGINE TYPE twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injectionDisplacement 177 in3, 2894 cm3Power 375 hp @ 6700 rpmTorque 383 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm
      TRANSMISSION 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
      CHASSIS Suspension (F/R): multilink/multilinkBrakes (F/R): 15.4-in vented, tungsten-carbide-coated disc/14.0-in vented, tungsten-carbide-coated discTires: Michelin Latitude Sport 3, F: 265/40R-21 101Y N2 R: 295/35R-21 103Y N2
      DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 110.6 inLength: 184.5 inWidth: 76.1 inHeight: 63.0 inPassenger volume: 96 ft3Cargo volume: 18 ft3Curb weight: 4468 lb
      C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 3.9 sec100 mph: 10.8 sec130 mph: 20.5 sec150 mph: 33.4 secRolling start, 5–60 mph: 4.9 secTop gear, 30–50 mph: 2.7 secTop gear, 50–70 mph: 3.6 sec1/4 mile: 12.6 sec @ 107 mphTop speed (mfr’s claim): 162 mphBraking, 70–0 mph: 155 ftBraking, 100–0 mph: 306 ftRoadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.94 gStanding-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.2 sec.
      C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 20 mpg75-mph highway driving: 27 mpgHighway range: 530 miles
      EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/city/highway: 19/17/22 mpg

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      in Car Reviews

      Tested: 1979 Chevrolet LUV vs. 1979 Toyota 4wd

      by

      From the November 1979 issue of Car and Driver.
      Soft, powdery Chrysler-proving­ grounds dirt is coming in the window. A choking pea-soup fog churned up by four madly spinning tires engulfs Toyota’s LUV 4wd pickup as I wrestle it, bucking and howling, toward the rim of the Soup Bowl.
      The Soup Bowl is part of Chrysler’s off-road-vehicle testing facility, a ravine that gouges ten stories deep into the overgrown Chelsea, Michigan, landscape. There are about a half-dozen trails out of the bowl, some as steep as 45 percent. From the top, you feel as though you were standing in the upper deck of Yankee Stadium. The people at the bottom look very small.

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      Chrysler has generously allowed us access to its off-road preserve so that we might get better acquainted with the first two efficiency-era off-road trucks: the Toyota 4wd and Chevrolet LUV four-by-four mini-pickups. It never even occurs to us that this will also be an opportunity to roar, slide, bounce, wiggle, and thump through the Michigan countryside unmolested by the authorities. Not for a second.
      One obvious fact marks these two Japanese-built pick-’em-ups as the first of tomorrow’s four-by-fours: they’re far more fuel-efficient than their much larger domestic counterparts. A LUV, for instance, will travel 20 EPA city miles on every gallon, about 25 percent farther than a comparably equipped full-grown Chevy pickup. The government, to no one’s surprise, has duly noted the fuelishness of Blazer-class rigs and will slowly legislate them out of existence with new 4wd fuel-mileage standards that start in 1980. And interest in the big rigs has already faded significantly, ever since OPEC first dialed back the flow of crude. If you have any doubt that mini-trucks are the answer, just try to find a dealer that has any in stock.

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      Aaron KileyCar and Driver

      It’s been that way ever since Subaru pioneered the tiny 4wd vehicle back in 1978 with its BRAT and 4wd wagon. But those were gentlemen off-road machines, transformed sedans intended for light-duty use. The LUV and the Toyota, on the other hand, are trucks, built with all the heavy-duty functionalism that that term implies.
      Both of these trucks have been with us a while. Isuzu sent the LUV over from Japan at the beginning of 1979, and Toyota had its all-wheel-driver on the market in mid-year. If a 4wd pickup seemed like a good idea way back when fuel was flowing relatively freely, it’s positively inspired now.
      Still, there’s more to their attractiveness than good fuel economy. Like their 2wd siblings, these 4wd trucks are lighter and more compact than the domestic pickups. The LUV, at 2780 pounds and 173.8 inches in length, is at least a half­-ton lighter and a foot and a half shorter than Chevy’s home-grown pickups. Numbers like these make the LUV and the Toyota more nimble, more maneuverable, and easier to park than the chunky full-sized brands.

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      Aaron KileyCar and Driver

      We have only one self-imposed restriction during the testing: we will not jump the trucks under any circumstances, because we have learned the hard way that production four-by-fours will twist themselves into scrap iron when you make like Evel Knievel.
      The first event is Free-Form Driving Around, wherein we charge up and down every one of the Soup Bowl’s trails. The trucks throw up blinding clouds of dust that settle on every interior surface and pack dirt into our every pore. Hell, there’s even dirt in my teeth. But we do not jump the trucks.
      Event number two is the first head-to­-head clash, a sophisticated off-road test thought up by technical trendsetter Don Sherman. It’s called Let’s Race Up That Hill. Time and again we attack the slopes, with front hubs locked, transfer cases in low range, and gear levers in first. Door handle to door handle, we scrabble up the steep, soft grades, the trucks bucking and jumping and throwing rooster tails of dirt—sometimes into the cabs. Now and again the trucks get hung up and slither sideways toward each other. We even race up the hills backwards in our search for a winner—but mostly just for the fun of it. And it is fun, rollicking good fun, punctuated with howling tires and howls of laughter. Amazingly enough, only once is there body contact, and it’s light.

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      Aaron KileyCar and Driver

      The first confrontation is judged a draw. Both trucks seem to have equal helpings of traction and climbing prowess, though the Toyota does exhibit the more colorful climbing style: the fuel system, for some mysterious reason, starves intermittently, causing the engine to surge on and off at full throttle, and the chassis jackhammers whenever the tires lose their grip. The LUV, by comparison, is much more sedate—but no more adept.
      Four-wheel-drive trucks, of course, are expected to do much more than just climb out of ravines. So to deepen our understanding of these two mini-mites, a change of venue is called for. Chrysler, you may know, builds tanks for the government—and they have to test them somewhere, right? The “somewhere” turns out to be a perfect site for a trail-riding comparison.

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      Aaron KileyCar and Driver

      The tank-testing course is a twenty ­foot-wide, serpentine swath cut from the undergrowth, twisting and turning in a mile-long loop. The surface ranges from ankle-deep sand to hard-packed dirt. The loop is bounded by trees, shoulder-high banks, and ditches, while the center of the trail—the part that passes under a tank’s belly—rises high enough to form a natural divider between the outer and inner lanes in some places. It’s high enough to flip a truck.
      The able Mr. Sherman again hits on an excellent test procedure. “Let’s race,” he suggests. And race we do, in 2wd this time—it’s easier to hang the tail out in the corners—on what could easily pass for a special stage in a pro rally. We bounce, wallow, tilt, slide, and buck furiously around the course, whipping the dust into a smoke screen; at times I can’t so much as see the end of my hood.

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      Aaron KileyCar and Driver

      The Toyota’s lighter and quicker power steering makes feverish steering corrections easier, but its added height and resulting tippiness—it’s five inches taller than the LUV—make it more intimidating to drive hard. The power difference between the two doesn’t even come into play. The result is another dead heat.
      The afternoon’s foray in, around, and through the wilds of Chelsea has led us to the surprising conclusion that, in the brush, neither truck is more capable or more fun than the other. Their relative equality is especially curious considering the differences in their designs and specifications. The Toyota went in as the overdog, and one look will tell you why: it’s as macho as the Duke was, standing tall enough to look a Blazer right in the eye. (We later discovered that it actually offers 1.5 inches less ground clearance than the LUV.) The Toyota’s 2.2-liter four has fifteen more horsepower and 27 more pound-feet of torque than the LUV’s 1.8-liter engine. And the Toyota sports 15-inch mud-and­-snow tires as opposed to the LUV’s 14-inchers. Nevertheless, the trucks’ tractive abilities and general off­road manners were as close as you’II ever find in two competing makes. Both were a ball to bash around in, and both stood up to our rambunctious romping without so much as a trace of fatigue. We hereby pronounce them fit for enthusiast use, and every bit as rugged as the Essex-class rigs of yore.

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      Aaron KileyCar and Driver

      All of this fun in the woods, however, makes it all too easy to forget that there’s a flip side to this story. Most off­-road vehicles spend the vast majority of their time on the road. And that’s just why we devoted but a single day to our off-road extravaganza. We lived with the trucks on the street for weeks.
      Unfortunately, neither of these trucks takes very well to the civilized life. In fact, few vehicles have spent more nights in the company parking lot than these two. If annoying traits were worth money, these two would cost a fortune: they accelerate as though loaded with a ton of bricks, they make your ears ring on the highway, and, worst of all, they have no affinity whatsoever for paved surfaces. They show their contempt for hard corners by lurching unnervingly and lifting their inside rear wheels in the fire-hydrant salute. And they both ride, well, like trucks, though the Toyota is by far the bigger pain in the butt—literally. Our test Toyota acted as if it had concrete for springs and wrought iron for shocks, bucking and jerking over every crack, wave, and bump in the road. It was otherwise easy to maneuver, nicely trimmed, and more than roomy enough, but the feeling that we were inside a giant Shake ‘n Bake bag took all the fun out of it. To be fair, Toyota tells us the long-bed, 110-inch ­wheelbase version rides better. But none was available for comparison, so we really can’t speak to the validity of that claim.

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      Aaron KileyCar and Driver

      The LUV, by comparison, had a more sophisticated way of dealing with the paved terrain. Its independent front suspension did a much better job than the Toyota’s solid-axle-leaf-spring arrangement. But we still can’t think of a sedan that’s as rough-riding as the LUV. And while the LUV doesn’t have any glaring faults, it does suffer because of the cumulative effect of a few smaller problems: the steering is heavy and slow, the engine is positively anemic, and the cab is cramped for six-footers.
      About the only thing these two do well on the street is hauling. Then they’re just wonderful. Both trucks’ payload capacities—the combined weight of passengers and cargo—are in the 1100-pound range. That’s a few hundred pounds less than larger four-by­-fours can carry, but unless you make a habit of hauling around bridge abutments, it ought to suffice.

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      Aaron KileyCar and Driver

      The “Michigan stopper” is what tractor pullers call a transfer: 43,000 pounds of movable weight that can be gradually applied to a skid that claws into the good earth. Properly adjusted, a transfer can develop enough resistance to stop a 2000-hp competition pulling tractor in its tracks. The stopper belongs to the Michigan Tractor Pullers, Inc., an association that promotes tractor-pulling events in the Midwest. They’ve agreed to help us with this final event, a head-to-head test of sheer pulling strength that’s about as subtle as arm-wrestling. Oh, sure, we know hooking a 4wd mini-pickup to a tractor-pull transfer sounds crazy. That’s because it is crazy.
      It takes quite a bit of figuring and testing and adjusting for the Pullers to lower the transfer’s resistance enough so that our mini-mites can budge it. That done, the trucks grunt out a couple of runs each. Power talks, and theToyota chugs its way to the 56-foot mark before stalling out, exhausted. The LUV can manage only an agonizingly slow 30-foot pull.
      Then someone jumps a truck. During a jaunt around the Saline Community Fairgrounds, one of the Michigan Pullers runs the Toyota off the end of a loading dock or something. He returns with the front axle pretzeled, but the truck is still drivable. Oh well, we tried to be good.
      The new generation of 4wd pickups has proved itself as able as the old guard in most respects. The Toyota and LUV four-by-fours are trucks through and through: rugged, a blast in the out-back, terrific for hauling gear, and lousy car substitutes.
      So there’s no need to worry about the future of four-wheeling in an energy-conscious world. The first of the new economical breed are here, and they are good. We confidently predict that tomorrow’s off-road rider will find his trails happy and his trucks fit.

      Specifications

      SPECIFICATIONS
      1979 Toyota 4WD
      VEHICLE TYPEfront-engine, rear-/4-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door pickup
      PRICE AS TESTED$6,702 (base price: $6,200)
      ENGINE TYPESOHC 8-valve inline-4, iron block and aluminum head, 1×2-bbl Aisan carburetionDisplacement: 134 in3, 2189 cm3Power: 95 hp @ 4800 rpmTorque: 122 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
      TRANSMISSION4-speed manual
      CHASSISSuspension (F/R): live axle/live axleBrakes (F/R): 11.8-in disc/10.0-in drumTires: Dunlop Snow Cruiser 78, H78-15
      DIMENSIONSWheelbase: 102.2 inLength: 171.1 inWidth: 66.5 inHeight: 65.9 inCurb weight: 2920 lb
      C/D TEST RESULTS30 mph: 4.0 sec60 mph: 14.3 sec80 mph: 32.7 sec1/4 mile: 19.8 sec @ 69 mphTop speed: 88 mphBraking, 70–0 mph: 214 ft

      1979 Chevrolet LUV
      VEHICLE TYPEfront-engine, rear-/4-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door pickup
      PRICE AS TESTED$7586 (base price: $6,247)
      ENGINE TYPESOHC 8-valve inline-4, iron block and aluminum head, 1×2-bbl Hitachi carburetionDisplacement: 111 in3, 1817 cm3Power: 80 hp @ 4800 rpmTorque: 95 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
      TRANSMISSION4-speed manual
      CHASSISSuspension (F/R): control arms/live axleBrakes (F/R): 9.8-in disc/10.0-in drumTires: BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A, F70-14
      DIMENSIONSWheelbase: 102.4 inLength: 173.8 inWidth: 63.0 inHeight: 60.8 inCurb weight: 2780 lb
      C/D TEST RESULTS30 mph: 4.3 sec60 mph: 16.3 sec80 mph: 37.9 sec1/4 mile: 20.6 sec @ 67 mphTop speed: 88 mphBraking, 70–0 mph: 222 ft

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      in Car Reviews

      Tested: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4Matic Drops the Hatchback Act

      by

      The previous-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA250 seemed conflicted about what it should be. It paired a carlike seating position and sporty hatchback driving verve with semi-butch exterior styling, and the result was a confusing product that failed to hit either mark. This time around, Mercedes decided to nudge the GLA closer to conventional crossover proportions, and that move paid off. The 2021 GLA is a more fully realized product, and it’s all the better for it.

      HIGHS: Increased passenger and cargo space, sharp handling, modernized features.

      Leaning into the SUV side of things strikes us as a smart move, as it means that the new GLA250 aims at the heart of the subcompact luxury SUV market by providing a more relaxed and more practical package. The roofline is still slightly lower than the angular GLB’s, but the expanded dimensions provide more space for people and cargo while aligning with the mini-SUV aesthetic.

      View Photos

      Mercedes-Benz

      All Grown Up
      For 2021, the GLA250 is for a more mature client. The suspension delivers a comfier ride that doesn’t punish occupants over potholes. And yet despite this softening, the GLA maintains much of the last generation’s lively handling, and its steering is just as crisp as we expected. BMW’s X1 and X2 SUVs offer a higher level of driving acuity, but the Mercedes still offers a satisfying experience behind the wheel.

      Mercedes-Benz’s GLA250 Grows Up

      2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class Caps Entry-Level Line

      2021 GLA45 Shows AMG’s Wild Side

      Whereas the old model felt like a car from behind the wheel, the 2021 GLA has a taller seating position that gives it a more upright feel. A major complaint with the last GLA-class was its tight rear-passenger area and compact cargo compartment. The new model’s increased height and width makes the rear seat feel significantly more spacious, and six carry-on suitcases fit in the cargo area, one more than the last generation.

      LOWS: Not as quick as the last generation, fussy infotainment touchpad, confusingly similar to a GLB.

      View Photos

      Mercedes-Benz

      Our test car—a well-equipped GLA250 4Matic that carried a sticker price of $49,310—came with the optional instrument panel featuring two 10.3-inch monitors, one serving as a reconfigurable instrument cluster and the other handling infotainment functions. This setup is found across the Mercedes-Benz lineup and gives the GLA an appropriately modern feel. The large displays are part of the Premium package ($1750), but the base model’s 7.0-inch screens serve the same purpose. Mercedes’s latest MBUX software interface is standard, for better or worse, and offers voice and touchpad controls—although we prefer to simply touch the display itself to interact with the system.
      Cooled Jets
      Quietly and smoothly toiling away under the GLA250’s hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that’s shared with the CLA-class sedan and the GLB-class SUV. It makes 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque and is paired to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and, in the case of our test vehicle, all-wheel drive. (The non-4Matic model is front-wheel drive.) On the road, the GLA250 feels perky and quick, but its performance at our test track proved that it isn’t as rapid as the 2018 model we tested, which skipped to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds.

      View Photos

      Mercedes-Benz

      The 2021 GLA250’s acceleration numbers are still competitive, though. It went from zero to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds, just 0.1 second behind the last X2 we tested. The Mercedes is also neck and neck with the BMW through the quarter-mile, with the GLA posting a 14.8-second ET while hitting 94 mph. The X2 matches that time but falls 1 mph short of an outright tie. If the GLA250’s restrained performance doesn’t stir your sloejito, Mercedes is offering two AMG-tuned versions for this generation—the 302-hp GLA35 and the even hotter 382-hp GLA45.
      The existence of the AMG-branded GLAs allows Benz to tune the 250 model for refinement and practicality while still offering the niche buyer a more performance-oriented option. Although the redesigned GLA250 has lost some of its sporty character in the transition to its second generation, it’s now a more compelling package thanks to improvements in nearly every other substantive metric.

      Specifications

      Specifications
      2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4Matic
      VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
      PRICE AS TESTED $49,310 (base price: $39,280)
      ENGINE TYPE turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injectionDisplacement 122 in3, 1991 cm3Power 221 hp @ 5500 rpmTorque 258 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
      TRANSMISSION 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
      CHASSIS Suspension (F/R): struts/multilinkTires: Continental ProContact GX SSR, 235/50R-19 99H M+S
      DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 107.4 inLength: 173.6 inWidth: 72.2 inHeight: 63.4 inCargo volume: 15 ft3Curb weight: 3689 lb
      C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 6.3 sec100 mph: 17.2 secRolling start, 5–60 mph: 6.9 secTop gear, 30–50 mph: 3.8 secTop gear, 50–70 mph: 5.0 sec1/4 mile: 14.8 sec @ 94 mphTop speed (mfr’s claim): 130 mphBraking, 70–0 mph: 181 ftRoadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.86 g
      Standing-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.4 sec.
      EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/city/highway: 27/24/33 mpg

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      in Car Reviews

      Tested: 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE53 Coupe Puts a Premium on Design

      by

      View Photos
      Michael SimariCar and Driver

      Smack in the middle of Mercedes’s engine lineup for the updated 2021 GLE-class is the brand’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. Set against the standard 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four and AMG’s twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 with more than 600 ponies, the six’s smoothness and easy power make it a standout in the GLE53 coupe model.
      The turbocharged six features a 48-volt motor-generator that delivers the 3.0-liter a silky smooth auto stop-start system and also fills in the gaps between nine-speed automatic transmission’s gear changes. The 48-volt system also powers an electric supercharger that helps feed boost before the turbocharger wakes up. The hybrid/supercharger combo yields a low-rpm surge that helps get the 5322-pound GLE off the line with satisfying authority.

      HIGHS: Refined and silky inline-six, punchy acceleration, modern and high-budget interior.

      View Photos

      Michael SimariCar and Driver

      Total engine power comes in at 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, numbers that fit in neatly between the GLE350’s 255 horsepower and the monstrous GLE63 S Coupe’s 603 ponies. The run to 60 mph takes 4.7 seconds, and the quarter-mile mark falls in 13.4 seconds at 103 mph. For something with abundant power and sporting intentions, top speed is limited to a not-so-AMG 112 mph.
      A GLE53 opens at $77,495, but a list of options the size of a CVS receipt brought the total to $104,460. If that makes you think you’d rather forgo a host of options and instead spend an extra $10,000 to get a base $114,945 V-8-powered GLE63 S with a 3.4-second time to 60 mph, well, you’re not alone.

      View Photos

      Michael SimariCar and Driver

      Tested: AMG GLE63 S Hits 60 in 3.4 Seconds

      Mercedes GLE vs. BMW X5, Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne

      Fit and finish is certainly up to a six-figure standard. The digital cluster can be configured in a number of ways, from classic to ’80s video game. Compared to the GLE without a sloping roofline, there’s a five cubic-feet loss of cargo space behind the second row and 12 fewer cubic feet with the rear seats folded. From the driver’s seat, the view is identical to the regular GLE. There’s an expansive one-panel, two-screen infotainment setup running across the dashboard. Interacting with it can be done in a number of ways: You have the screen itself, which is touch sensitive, a touchpad ahead of the center armrest, and steering-wheel controls You can also wave your hand to control volume and skip songs, or you can summon the voice-control assistant by saying “Hey, Mercedes,” and then asking a question or stating a command.

      LOWS: Opting for the coupe version costs $4150 and reduces practicality, optional extras can bring the total to more than six figures, BMW offers a twin-turbo V-8 at this price point.

      Despite massive, staggered 22-inch wheels wrapped with steamroller Yokohama Advan Sport 107V summer rubber, when left in Comfort mode the GLE53 soaks up Midwestern roads in stride. Switching to Sport firms things up but not to the point of abuse. It’s best to save the very firm Sport Plus mode for newly paved roads. Pressed hard into corners, the GLE never feels unstable or tippy. Body roll is kept in tight check in Sport and Sport Plus, but at 0.88 g the lateral grip isn’t up to snuff with its competition despite the Yokohama summer tires. There’s not a ton of feedback through the steering, but if that’s what you crave, we might point you over to the Porsche store.

      View Photos

      Michael SimariCar and Driver

      In addition to Porsche’s Cayenne coupe, the GLE53 will face the BMW X6 M50i and Audi Q8 in the let’s-call-it-a-coupe-even-though-it’s-clearly-a-four-door-SUV segment. In addition to the futuristic and plush interior, the GLE53’s inline-six distinguishes it from the competition. While it lacks the punch and power of the X6 M50i’s stunning V-8, the Benz’s engine has silken refinement and an electrically assisted power delivery that the V-6s from Porsche and Audi can’t match. Take it easy on the options, and the GLE53 carves out a space for itself below the mighty GLE63 S, or save yourself $4150 and buy the GLE53 with the regular roofline.

      Specifications

      Specifications
      2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE53 Coupe
      VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
      PRICE AS TESTED $104,460 (base price: $77,495)
      ENGINE TYPE supercharged, turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve inline-6, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injectionDisplacement 183 in3, 3000 cm3Power 429 hp @ 6100 rpmTorque 384 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
      TRANSMISSION 9-speed automatic
      CHASSIS Suspension (F/R): multilink/multilinkBrakes (F/R): 15.8-in vented, cross-drilled disc/13.6-in vented discTires: Yokohama Advan Sport 107V, F: 285/40R-20 111Y MO 1 R: 325/35R-22 114T M0 1
      DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 115.6 inLength: 195.3 inWidth: 79.4 inHeight: 67.7 inCargo volume: 28 ft3Curb weight: 5322 lb
      C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 4.7 sec100 mph: 12.5 secRolling start, 5–60 mph: 5.7 secTop gear, 30–50 mph: 3.4 secTop gear, 50–70 mph: 4.0 sec1/4 mile: 13.4 sec @ 103 mphTop speed (governor limited): 112 mphBraking, 70–0 mph: 156 ftRoadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.88 gStanding-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.
      C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 18 mpg75-mph highway driving: 26 mpgHighway range: 580 miles
      EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/city/highway: 20/18/23 mpg

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      in Tools

      The 10 Best iPad Car Mounts to Buy 2020

      by

      Integrating all of your different technology is the new trend – Premium cars today come equipped with spacious screens to handle your navigation and entertainment requirements. Because most of us can’t spring for a Tesla Model S, iPad mounts are an affordable alternative. New design innovations in the car tablet mount field have sprung several variants serving different purposes. These devices turn your iPad into a mounted touchscreen navigation system, a viewing screen, and a music device rolled into one.

      What to Consider Before Buying a Good iPad Car Mount
      Before zeroing in on a model, keep a few things in mind – What features to look for and specifically, how the mount attaches to your car.
      Mount Location
      If you’re shopping for an iPad mount, you probably have a good idea where you will want your tablet to be mounted in the car. On the list below, you can find mounts that attach to the headrest, dashboard, cupholders, and floor. For more information on the different ways that mounts can be installed in your car, see our section on types of iPad car mounts.
      Ease of Installation
      Some of the mounts on our list quickly snap into place while some are more complicated to install. Mounts that attach to the car using screws or other hardware are more sturdy as well. That’s why drivers who will be mounting tablets for their own use should consider a more permanent installation like the Arkon Tablet Mount
      User-Friendly Features
      Viewing angles for different seats also depends on the type of iPad car mount you pick. Rear-seat holders typically offer optimum viewing angles for rear seats. Your children in the back seat can use the screen easily – And in a safe manner. Cup holder iPad mounts are better suited for front seat navigation or passenger seat entertainment purposes. Air vent, windshield, and dashboard iPad holders are great if you want a display you can attach and remove in a pinch.
      Build Quality
      A lot of how an iPad mount handles turbulence on the road has to do with the build quality. If long drives on rough roads are your priority, a stable iPad mount made of durable metal-plastic material is the right choice. Even if you frequent high traffic density routes, you need stability to ensure clear display without vibrations – Also, you don’t want your iPad to fall off mid-drive. Even if you pick a magnetic dash mount or air vent holder for flexibility, make sure you pick a model with sturdy construction.
      We’ve assembled a list of clear winners – Our favorite picks, keeping the type of iPad mount and budget in mind.

      Top 10 Best iPad Car Mounts 2020

      1. Best Overall iPad Car Mount: TFY Universal Car Headrest Mount Holder

      View on Amazon

      Why we like it: This model by TFY is a great pick for nearly anyone looking for an iPad Car Mount. It’s well made, secure, and stylish.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Headrest
      Ease of Installation
      The installation process is quite simple and takes about 5 to 10 minutes. This headrest iPad car mount has two parts – The durable stain resistant elastic strap and the metal holding brackets that acts as the tablet holding tray. Both the strap and the brackets come with Velcro securing patches. If you have adjustable height headrests, simply wrap the elasticated strap across the headrest vertically. If you have fixed height headrests, wrap it horizontally. The metal brackets go on the top and bottom of the strap’s Velcro patch – You can adjust the spacing to hold all iPad models and most standard tablets and phones.
      Performance
      The metal brackets have Velcro securing patches on the back. The tray is well made, flat, smooth, and stable enough to hold all iPad models comfortably. You can snugly fit in your tablet to make sure it doesn’t shake or fall off. The brackets also allow for placing your iPad in with the cover on. You can tweak the thickness spacing as well – And never have to remove your iPad from its protective case. You can move the strap up and down to customize viewing angles.
      Strength
      The strap is made of tough elasticized material with Velcro patches. The metal brackets are plastic coated and built durably. The build material of the strap and the brackets is strong enough to securely hold most tablet models over extremely long-distance drives of over 1,000 km. Though the model is designed to tirelessly entertain your rear-seat passengers, it can be disassembled and packed in a snap. The Velcro patches are dependable when it comes to tablet shaking and dislodgement prevention.
      Value for Money
      While this model is priced lesser compared to cup holder models like the Macally Heavy Duty Tablet Holder, it costs more than the CD slot and dashboard models. Overall, this model is worth the price.

      Pros

      Made from premium metal, Velcro, and elastic material.
      Best suited for long-distance drives.
      Set up takes about 5 to 10 minutes – Easy to install.
      Stable viewing angles for rear-seat passengers.

      Cons

      Not suitable for driver seat navigation.
      The iPad tray can’t be moved sidewards like the iKross model.

      2. Best Premium iPad Car Mount: Cellet Cup Holder Tablet Mount

      View on Amazon

      Why we like it: Cellet’s cup holder iPad car mount is easy to install, convenient to use and sturdy. It also offers the best viewing angles and does not obstruct the driver’s view.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Cupholder
      Ease of Installation
      As far as easy installations of iPad car mounts go, it can’t get simpler than this model by Cellet. It comes with a lightweight and sturdy circular (cup-shaped) base that fits into most standard cup holders. It’s as simple as place, turn, and clip into position. The adjustable base fits into most standard cup holders.
      Performance
      It sports a single-arm carrier with a three-pronged tablet tray on top. Although it does not block your view, it can get slightly cumbersome to switch gears if you drive a manual (depending on how far the cup holder is from the gear stick). Passengers can swivel the holder for better viewing angles.
      Strength
      The Cellet iPad holder is constructed from durable high-strength plastic materials. The overall strength of this model is above par – The single hinge joint arm can comfortably hold most tablets and phones. This model isn’t easily prone to shaking and instability – But if long-distance driving is your priority, you’d do better with a headrest iPad mount concerning stability and unobstructed driving.
      Value for Money
      This model is slightly pricey compared to most other iPad holders, but it does allow you to easily navigate while keeping your passenger entertained. Considering the quality Cellet provides, we think it’s a great deal.

      Pros

      Does not block the driver’s view.
      Easy setup process.
      Sturdier when compared to the magnetic dashboard and air vent models.
      Provides on-road navigation and entertainment.
      It can be detached and packed away at need.

      Cons

      Rear seat viewing can be obstructed.
      Manual drivers might have trouble changing their gears sometimes.

      3. Best Budget iPad Car Mount: Tryone Car Headrest Mount

      View on Amazon

      Why we like it: If we’re talking value for money, it doesn’t get better than Tryone’s headrest iPad car mount.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Headrest
      Ease of Installation
      The iPad mount comes with a pair of clamps pushed into place by a spring-loaded piston. The piston moves horizontally and fixes the clamps to the posts of your headrest. The tablet holder is attached to the piston at the center and has a tray that fits most iPad and iPhone models. The setup process is simple – It takes under 5 minutes to have it up and going. The model fits rear seat posts of 12.5 to 15 cm in width – Make sure your car and iPad mount are compatible.
      Performance
      This model is convenient to use – Kids above 10 can even clip it in and use it all by themselves. The holder can be customized to fit most large tablets and cellphones – You can use your iPad in both landscape and portrait mode by simply rotating the holding tray.
      The tray can also be bent to tilt the screen at a comfortable angle. The clamping piston does not have an extra sliding tube mechanism like the iKross model to move the iPad sideways.
      Strength
      Although Tryone’s headrest iPad mount is primarily made of plastic, the overall build quality is simply great. The manufacturing material is strong enough to handle moderately long-distance drives without shaking much. The plastic side clamps of the tablet tray grip your iPad tightly – They can be detached easily too.
      Value for Money
      If you’re looking for a cheap, quick, and sturdy solution for entertaining your kids in the backseat, this is the pick for you. Entering the list significantly more affordable than the cup holder models by iKross, and Akron, this model is quite the steal.
      This model can’t slide your iPad sideways, which might limit the viewing angle from the other seat, but at this price point, you can probably grab two.

      Pros

      The best value iPad car mount.
      The installation process takes less than 2 minutes.
      Offers great viewing angles for rear-seat passengers.
      It can be customized to fit most iPads and other standard tablet and smartphone models.

      Cons

      It cannot slide sideways like the iKross model.
      It only fits headrests of a particular width.
      Not for front seat real-time navigation.

      4. Best for Backseat Passengers: iKross Universal Car Tablet Mount Holder

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: This sturdy model by iKross is the best option to keep rear-seat passengers entertained and informed on long-distance drives spanning lengths of over 3,000 km.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Headrest
      Ease of Installation
      This model comes with two adjustable clamps attached to a square tube that slides sideways. These clamps can be fitted to the front seat’s headrest with a few tightness and length adjustments. Once you’ve fitted the supporting clamps, fix the iPad tray to the square tube.
      Performance
      This car tablet mount features great versatility. While it works best with the iPad, the tablet-holding tray can be adjusted to fit most standard cellphones and tablets. The square pole moves sideways – Both rear-seat passengers can enjoy great viewing angles with a single iPad.
      The angle of the tablet holder and the positioning ensures the driver’s view is never obstructed. If you aren’t looking for hands-on navigation or immediate connectivity, this is the best pick for you.
      Strength
      The clamp-tube mechanism is well built – The material is sturdy enough to hold iPads over long distances without concern of shaking or instability. The solid ABS material and the aluminum square tube can easily withstand the disturbances and issues associated with larger distance drives – Without posing a threat to your children in the backseat.
      Value for Money
      Entering the list on the affordable end, this sturdy iPad mount justifies its price point. If Velcro isn’t your thing and you want a cheaper and sturdier headrest model, iKross’ model is worth considering.

      Pros

      Great value for money in terms of build quality and utility.
      It can be customized to fit every version of the iPad, most tablets, and phones.
      A sturdy iPad car mounts specially designed for long drives.
      The iPad tray can be moved sideways to provide larger viewing angles.
      Does not obstruct the driver’s view.

      Cons

      Navigation and internet/call connectivity for the driver’s seat isn’t an option.

      5. Best Heavy Duty Cupholder iPad Car Mount: Macally Heavy Duty Tablet Holder

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: The heavy-duty build of Macally’s iPad car mount coupled with its ease of installation/detachment makes it a durable and convenient pick.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Cupholder
      Ease of Installation
      Just like Cellet’s model, this cup holder mount comes with a cup-shaped base that can be fitted in and tightened firmly. The installation process is simple – Just place the iPad car mount in the cup holder you want to give up temporarily – And adjust for tightness and firmness. Place your iPad on the spinnable tablet tray and fix the clasps.
      Performance
      Cup holder car mounts are absolutely the best option for driver’s seat navigation – And passenger seat entertainment. Macally’s tablet mount is designed to specifically give you obstruction-free navigation while driving. The holder can be rotated and tilted to give both you and your passenger optimal viewing angles. This heavy-duty model is the perfect companion for long drives – Coupled with a secure headrest tablet mount for the rear seat.
      Strength
      This model is meant to take slightly rougher roads. The heavy-duty construction results in a well-made product that can hold your iPad with minimal shaking while allowing you navigation access. This is a product you can detach from your car when you want but also gives you sturdy performance because of its strong metal-plastic build.
      Value for Money
      While this model is slightly higher priced when compared to Tryone’s headrest model, it is affordable compared to Cellet’s model and Akron’s seat rail model as well. The easy installation process, the unscrew-and-pack-away convenience, and easy access to navigation and your favorite playlists, this model is completely worth the price.

      Pros

      Durable build quality.
      Easy access to on-road navigation and entertainment.
      It can be removed from your cup holder and packed away when you want.
      Suitable for long-distance drives.

      Cons

      Almost no access to the rear seat if you’re using it upfront.
      If you have something more permanent and stable on your mind, there are options on our list to consider.

      6. Most Stable iPad Car Mount: Akron Tablet Mount

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: When it comes to stability, Akron’s seat rail tablet mount is the most stable iPad holder in the market.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Seat Rail/floor iPad car mount.
      Ease of Installation
      The package comes with four long and four short support legs for the tablet holder – And a Gooseneck-design holder with a sturdy screw clamp.
      For seat rail installation, first, loosen the track bolt with the aid of a socket wrench. Place the seat track bolt bracket and tighten the bolt using the socket wrench.  You can change the orientation of the bolted bracket by removing the screws and adjusting it.
      For installing this model on the floor of your car, remove the screws from the bolted bracket and attach the floor/console mount bracket. You can then fasten the floor bracket to the floor of your car with screws (that come in the package). If you’re new to using a socket wrench and a nail gun, it’s best to get assistance for setting this model up. But once it’s up, it can withstand the roughest of roads.
      Performance
      In terms of user-friendliness and viewing angles, this model is great. Both the driver and the passenger can bend the Gooseneck to make the iPad screen face any angle. Although this model is meant to be a permanent solution, it is prone to wobbling when the road gets especially rough. But the iPad is never at risk of falling off – Nor is the bendable arm flimsy.
      Strength
      All the products you receive in the sales package – The metal support legs, the bendable Gooseneck arm, the screw clamp, and the screws are built with a tough mix of metal and plastic material. Although this model is prone to shaking as it is attached either to the floor or close to it, it reliably holds your iPad over moderately long distances.
      Value for Money
      Akron’s floor tablet holder is priced slightly higher compared to iKross’s headrest holder and Macally’s cup holder tablet mount. If you’re on the hunt for a permanent and sturdy solution for on the road navigation – And not having the driver’s view obstructed, this is a great choice for you.

      Pros

      One of the most secure models on the market.
      A permanent solution for holding your iPad.
      Hands-on navigation and passenger seat entertainment.
      Does not obstruct the driver’s view.

      Cons

      The installation process can get tricky if you’re a beginner.
      Can’t be removed and packed away as easily as Tryone’s headrest mount or WizGear’s dashboard mount.

      7. Best Dashboard iPad Car Mount: WizGear Universal Magnetic Car Mount

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: Wizgear’s magnetic iPad holder can be mounted on the dashboard quickly – The magnetic tray lets you attach and remove your iPad to the holder as you wish.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Dashboard
      Ease of Installation
      This tablet holder comes with a ball and bendable socket arm which has a suction cup on one end and a circular/rectangular magnetic tray to hold your iPad. You can easily peel off the stickers and attach the suction mount to your dashboard. Ensure the surface is as flat as possible so that the iPad tray does not obstruct the driver’s view.
      Performance
      The magnetic tray can hold most iPads and smartphones securely, but we wouldn’t recommend this product if you’re looking to use larger tablets over longer distances. The magnet operated iPad holder lets you set up and remove your tablet easily – And the suction comes off relatively easily as well. This model is meant as a temporary solution for people looking to use iPads for navigation over small distances. You can detach the mount from your dashboard when you wish. While there are claims that magnetic holders can damage your device’s battery, that’s not true.
      Strength
      The suction cup and the bendable arm are built well. The model holds your iPad securely over short distances. If you’re looking for iPad holders to last you through rougher or longer routes, there are other models on this list better suited for your needs. This model comes with the option of adding extra metal plates onto the back of the holder, allowing it to grip your iPad or iPhone more securely. Although the suction cup mechanism comes off easily when compared to other screw operated iPad mounts, the adhesive is quite strong – It’s strong enough to handle most daily purposes.
      Value for Money
      This model is decently priced when compared to cup holder iPad mounts and other models. Entering the list significantly cheaper than Akron’s seat rail model, this suction cup type tablet mount is even slightly more affordable than Satechi’s CD slot model (while giving you the same convenience.

      Pros

      The suction cup design allows for easy installation/detachment.
      The magnetic mount lets you take off your iPad and place it back quickly.
      Good buy for short-distance navigation on city roads.

      Cons

      The suction cup adhesive isn’t designed for especially long-distance drives.
      The magnetic iPad tray is prone to dropping bigger tablets on rough roads.

      8. Best CD Slot iPad Car Mount: Satechi Universal Tablet CD Slot Mount

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: The Satechi iPad car mount is spring loaded – You can clip the iPad holder in and out of the CD slot quite easily.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Car CD player slot
      Ease of Installation
      This model comes with a ball joint and spring-loaded mechanism that can be easily fitted into most standard car CD slots. Rather than use an antiquated ratcheted lock-release system and tightening screws, this model utilizes a spring and tightening clamp mechanism to sturdily fit into your CD slot. If the setup seems flimsy after your first installation, you’ll find additional stick-on rubber pads in the package, which you can use to readjust the thickness and make the fit tighter.
      Performance
      The iPad is held on the mount by two jaw-like protrusions. Since the model is spring-loaded, you can spread the jaws and place your iPad inside and let the spring tension hold it upright. The jaws also come with a rubber coating – which insulates and grips your iPad better. Since it goes into your CD slot, it does not block your driving view. Over short distances on packed roads, it’s one of the best ways to get hands-on navigation in a pinch. If you’re looking to use this mount with multiple devices, make sure they’re compatible, as this model has trouble gripping smaller smartphones.
      Strength
      The construction material of this particular model is surprisingly good. Even though it isn’t supported by additional fittings, it can support the weight of every iPad type (and most other standard tablets) quite comfortably. The iPad holding tray itself is quite durable. It’s best suited for short city roads without any risk of tablet dislodgement.
      Value for Money
      Being moderately priced compared to some of the other variants on this list, it sure is worth a look – As long as CDs aren’t your primary source of content.

      Pros

      The spring-loaded and clamp mechanism allows for a sturdy fit into your CD slot.
      You can clip the holder into your CD slot and clip it out in under a minute.
      The build quality is strong and durable.
      The best option if you’re looking for hands-on navigation over small distances.

      Cons

      If you love listening to your playlists on CD, this option isn’t for you.
      This model has trouble gripping smaller smartphones.
      Your iPad screen is prone to vibrations over long distances.

      9. Best Windshield iPad Car Mount: APPS2Car Tablet Car Mount Holder

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: This flexible Gooseneck model by APPS2Car can stick to any surface and can carry all iPad versions.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Windshield
      Ease of Installation
      Installing this model is relatively easy. However, this model is exclusively meant to be a permanent solution to your tablet holding needs. The 13-inch flexible rubber arm has a spring-operated tablet mount on one end and a strong suction cup on the other. The suction cup comes with an extra adhesive gel that fixes the mount strongly to any surface you need.
      Performance
      The Gooseneck design of the bendable arm means you can fix this model safely on the windshield without any fear of the tablet falling off. You can set this model up on any flat surface inside your car, but we recommend using your windshield as this model is a permanent solution for holding your tablet. The flipside of using your windshield to mount this model is that it might block your driver’s seat view. Pay close to the installation process and ascertain that it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view, and you should be fine. This model is moderately priced when compared to other higher priced rear seat and cup holder iPad holders.
      Strength
      The bendable arm is well built – It lets you stably adjust the viewing angle as you wish. It is made of a durable bendable metal plastic alloy that lets you bend it up to 90 degrees. The suction cup adheres quite strongly to the glass surface and won’t budge easily. It carries your iPad over moderately long distances sturdily. If you’re on the lookout for an iPad holder that clips in and out over shorter distances (for convenience), this model isn’t for you. The adhesive gel makes it hard to displace the holder from the surface.
      Value for Money
      This model enters the list in the mid-range category – It is priced similarly to Satechi. It is a permanent fix to your iPad holding requirements at a similar price point.

      Pros

      GPS navigation and entertainment for the passenger’s seat.
      The bendable arm is quite customizable when it comes to viewing angles.
      The suction cup with the adhesive gel gives a strong grip on the glass surface.
      The tray can be adjusted to fit all iPad models and larger phones.

      Cons

      If plug-in, plug-out convenience is what you’re looking for, this model isn’t for you.
      Ensure you don’t block the driver’s seat view while setting up this model as the adhesive is quite strong.

      10. Best Air Vent iPad Car Mount: OHLPRO Universal Tablet Holder

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: While designed primarily for car air vent use, OHLPRO’s versatility lets you use it on your windshield and dashboard.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Mount Location: Air vent/windshield/dashboard
      Ease of Installation
      This model with two types of mounts – A suction cup for viable flat surfaces and an air vent mount. The air vent mount comes with a horizontal latching mechanism that you simply push into place inside the air vent. You can then attach the tablet mount to the vertical arm. The suction cup works as expected – you peel of the sticker and attach the adhesive side to either your dashboard or windshield.
      Performance
      Air vent and CD slot iPad car mounts give you the same thing – Easy access to navigation, calls, and entertainment (for the passenger’s seat). It’s simply convenient to fix in your iPad when the drive begins and remove it along with the tablet mount when you’re ready to exit the car. However, these models are better suited for short distances. Take precautions to not let your iPad heat up too much due to the air dissipation from the vents.
      Strength
      The air vent locking mechanism is adequately made. It can comfortably hold most tablets and smartphones. This model’s suction surface works perfectly fine – It attaches strongly to your dashboard while also giving you the option to remove it as you wish. This convenience comes at a cost – This model isn’t your best choice for long-distance drives or rough roads. It shakes a fair bit and poses the risk of detaching in case you’re off-roading.
      Value for Money
      This model is slightly cheaper when placed side by side with Cellet’s iPad car mount or even Satechi’s CD slot car mount. For the amount of convenience and user accessibility this model provides, it’s definitely worth the price point.

      Pros

      Versatile iPad car mount that attaches to either your air vent, windshield, or dashboard.
      It can be clipped in and out as you wish.
      If you opt to use the air vent mount or dashboard, it is quite discrete.
      Installation is quick and simple – It does not have several moving parts.

      Cons

      Your iPad is prone to wobbling on rougher roads.
      Not the most stable iPad car mount for long-distance drives.
      Air vent blockage can cause iPad back panel heating.

      Guide to Buying an iPad Car Mount
      Because there are so many different ways to mount an iPad to your vehicle, there are lots of things to consider before buying your hardware. Here is what you should consider when choosing the right mount for your car.
      Security
      Common security threats posed by shoddy iPad car mounts include severe wobbling, tablet dislodgement, and even disassembly of mechanical parts in a few cases. Damage to your tablet – Or worse, injury to you or your passengers is possible if you pick a badly made tablet holder or install a car iPad mount wrongly.
      Our list recommends the best iPad car mounts – Models designed and crafted to your different needs, taking the best manufacturing quality and security features into consideration.
      User-Friendliness
      The term ‘user friendly’ doesn’t refer to one specific feature in an iPad car mount, it’s the combination of several features.
      Features like locking mechanisms, holder dimensions, holder customizability, viewing angle adjustability, and ease of installation work in tandem to give you the best possible user experience.
      Everything you’re looking for in an iPad holder – Navigation, internet, and call connectivity, and entertainment access – should be weighed against what type of roads you’re planning to frequent.
      Compatibility
      Most of the mounts on our list accommodate virtually every model of iPad smaller than 10 inches. However, regardless of the one you choose, make sure it’s compatible with your car and iPad model.
      A lot of the accessibility and user-friendly features iPad car mounts provide depends on how compatible it is with your car and device – More specifically, how well the locking mechanism attaches to the chosen mounting locations and the size and customizability of the tablet holder.
      Accessibility
      The level of accessibility your iPad car mount is going to give largely depends on the type of holder you opt for. All mounts come with two parts – An iPad holder and a mechanism to affix it to a certain location inside your car. Where you will be viewing the iPad screen from is the biggest factor when it comes accessibility features.
      The angle of screen tilt, distance from the steering wheel, and how securely it attaches to the car depends on where in your car you place it – More specifically, which part of your car the locking/latching mechanism attaches to.
      Durability
      How your device mount handles stress is determined by the durability and in turn, the build quality. If you’re looking for a temporary solution, there’s no reason to compromise on sturdiness and durability. Most convenient iPad car mount models can be detached, disassembled, and packed away to use when you wish. Others are made from stronger material and are designed to be a permanent fixture in your car. Regardless of what type you pick, make sure the mount is constructed with the best material. Durable iPad car mounts last longer, grip your iPad firmly, and do not shake or fall off easily.
      Types of iPad Car Mounts
      Depending on where in your car you plan to place the iPad holder, you have several different options.
      Headrest/Rear Seat iPad Car Mounts
      Headrest or rear seat iPad car mounts are attached to the backside of headrests facing the rear seats. Often touted as the safest and most practical variety of iPad car mounts, headrest mounts are ideal for long distances. They’re best used for entertainment and study purposes as they face away from the driver and the passenger. Navigation and call capabilities are limited, but they sure do make up for it by occupying your kids on that long trip to the lakeside cabin.
      Cup Holder iPad Car Mounts
      Cup holder iPad mounts fit snugly into your (you guessed it) cup holder. These mounts come with expandable bases, adjustable trays, and multiple pivot joints that let you secure the iPad mount safely, while also customizing for usability. They’re quite sturdy as well, compared to magnetic and air vent mounts. Depending on where in your car you install it, it can be adjusted for rearview or driver view without obstructing visibility.
      Seat Rail/Floor iPad Car Mounts
      A slightly less common variety of iPad car mounts, the seat rails/floor clamp variety is the definition of reliability. These models require you to gear up, grab those tools, and fit them in tight. They fix onto the seat rail of the passenger seat or on the floor of the car itself. Depending on your requirements, you can adjust the height from waist high to about chest high. Seat rail iPad car mounts are sturdy and don’t obstruct your view – The only downside is the installation process.
      CD Slot iPad Car Mounts
      If you don’t listen to CDs often, you could consider buying a CD tray iPad car mount. These variants typically come with simple clips (or tightening screws, depending on which model you pick) equipped with sliding mechanisms – You can easily clip these in and out of your CD tray as you wish. While these models don’t obstruct your view much, they’re quite prone to wobbling – They’re the ideal pick if you’re looking for a convenient iPad car mount for short-distance drives.
      Air Vent iPad Car Mounts
      Air vent iPad car mounts directly plug into your front air vents. The installation process is quite straightforward – All you have to do is slide back the tab clip and secure it firmly into the vent and adjust for optimal viewing angles. These clip type car mounts are easy to fit in and remove in a pinch, but they do obstruct airflow by placing your iPad directly in front of the vent. Yes, they’re strong enough to support the weight on slightly longer distances, but you run the risk of overheating and possible tablet malfunction over prolonged usage.
      Windshield/Dashboard iPad Car Mounts
      This variant of iPad car mounts is the most commonly sold model. They attach to either your windshield or the front dash of your car using a powerful suction cup. These models are simple to install and don’t require much in the way of maintenance. On the flip side, they aren’t the most stable iPad car mounts on the market – They’re quite susceptible to collapse due to excess weight or rough driving conditions.
      Benefits of iPad Car Mounts
      Adding an iPad to your existing car is an instant upgrade! Here are some ways to use your iPad in the car.
      Navigation
      Most of us constantly use GPS navigation these days. Whether you’re on your phone or iPad, balancing the device inside your car without using a holder can prove dangerous. It’s an absolute no-no when you’re driving. iPad car mounts – Especially cupholder, windshield and dashboard mounts give you secure and convenient access to on-road navigation, especially if you love long drives on slightly rougher terrains.
      Entertainment
      Road trips are fun for the entire family – But on-road entertainment like music, movies, and games are a blessing to parents of children with a tad bit extra energy levels. We recommend you pick a sturdy headrest model like the iKross iPad mount – Headrest mounts keep your kids occupied with educational or mainstream gaming, video, and audio content.
      If passenger seat entertainment is what you’re looking for, a cupholder mount can do the job just fine. Easy access to charging means endless playlists for you and your loved one.
      Connectivity
      Driving and talking on your smartphone isn’t just inconvenient – It’s also downright dangerous because of distraction and busy hands. Just mount an iPad on a holder and take all calls on your hands-free Bluetooth – Safe and simple. Professionals who need to stay connected to team members or managers while driving through jammed roads can benefit greatly from an iPad car mount. Magnetic dashboard models are great for taking calls on short distance drives.
      FAQs
      Which is the best user-friendly iPad car mount?
      The user-friendliness of your iPad mount largely depends on the type you choose. Cellet’s cup holder iPad car mount is the best user-friendly tablet holder as it provides both the driver and the passenger navigation, connectivity, and entertainment capabilities over comparatively larger distance drives. WizGear’s magnetic tablet holder is also a great option if you want a truly plug in and plug out type iPad car mount.
      Which is the best iPad car mount for long-distance drives?
      If you’re hitting the open road for a well-deserved vacation with the family, your best bet is a headrest tablet holder. iKross’ model is the best iPad car mount for long-distance drives as it is well built and offers a range of viewing angles. It grips all iPads safely and allows rear-seat passengers to use the screen without fear of dislodging your tablet.
      Are iPad car mounts dangerous?
      If you pick a well-made iPad car mount and follow the instruction manual to a T, it’s not going to pose a threat to you or your passengers. Models by TFY and APPS2Car for example, are manufactured from premium raw materials to ensure they aren’t dangerous to any user. Regardless of which model you decide to pick, make sure you pay close attention to the installation process to avoid common mistakes.
      Safety First
      We hope this list has been helpful, but remember, a distracted driver is a dangerous driver. While the mounts on this list make using devices safer while driving, keeping your eyes on the road is the most important thing. Thousands of lives are lost every year to distracted driving, and we owe it to ourselves and each other to use our devices responsibly. More

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      The 10 Best 12-Volt Coolers to Buy 2020

      by

      Long car trips are a big part of American life. The cost of gasoline on top of multiple stops for expensive restaurant and gas station food can make a trip skyrocket more in price, and quickly. One way to save money is to invest in a high-quality, well-made 12-volt cooler for your vehicle.
      12-volt coolers provide a portable and affordable answer to the typical gas station snacks and unhealthy fast food that peppers the American landscape. You only need a decent surface area for the cooler to sit in and an auxiliary cigarette lighter built-in to your vehicle to enjoy it to its fullest.
      We’re going to show you the best 12-volt cooler choices available on the market today. Firstly, we are going to situate you with the bare minimum of what you should know before purchasing one of these 12-volt coolers in our short buyer’s guide. After that, we’ll dive right into our individual product reviews giving you all the info on the 12-volt coolers worth investing in. Then comes an extended buyer’s guide that will flesh out the fantastic benefits of owning a 12 volt cooler in the first place.

      Features to Consider in a 12-Volt Cooler
      If you crave even more detail on these awesome car cooler products, please be sure to look at our extended buyer’s guide after our product reviews for a more detailed look on the ins and outs of these on-the-road lifesavers.
      Size
      Size is on the top of your list when it comes to the most important factor in a 12-volt cooler. Are you buying this for your entire family, or are you just using a cooler to keep your lunch cool on the way to work? Size matters, especially when considering exactly what and how much you’ll be putting in your cooler.
      Temperature
      Some of us, especially those who live in the more southern areas of the United States, deal with extreme temperatures on the regular. Be sure that before purchasing any kind of 12-volt cooler that the product can at least chill items down to about 40 degrees. It’s also worth noting that some coolers also can freeze food completely, so if you want to bring along a pint of ice cream, make sure your cooler is up to the job.
      Portability
      This may not be too much of an issue depending on your usage of the cooler itself. Truckers, for instance, are generally going to want to keep their coolers on their rig. However, campers that want to enjoy fresh food during their trip may want to buy a lighter 12-volt cooler system for maximum ease of movement.
      Insulation
      You could own one of the best coolers in the world in terms of how cold the internal temperature gets inside the product. However, if the insulation inside isn’t up to par, you’re not going to be able to retain that cool atmosphere for very long at all. A well-sealed and insulated 12-volt cooler will not only maintain its temperature when opening the lid, but it will also stay at the same temperature even when exposed to increased levels of heat, such as when sitting directly in the sun’s rays.
      Energy Concerns
      Battery and solar-powered coolers exist, however they generally come with a steep price tag. Most of these products plug into an energy outlet for charging, the more energy-efficient the cooler is, the easier it is on your car battery in the long run.

      Top 10 Best 12-Volt Coolers 2020

      1. Best Overall 12-Volt Cooler: Alpicool CF35 Portable

      View on Amazon

      Why we like it: Not only is this the most affordable family option on our list, but it’s the perfect mix of price point as well as overall options.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 35L, 45L, and 55L
      Weight: 28lbs
      Connections: 12/24V DC
      Review
      This solidly-built 12-volt cooler is the king of our list, balancing quality alongside its economical price point.
      With options for 35, 45, and 55 liters of interior storage, all options are more than enough for a family outing. The 35L version comes in at a relatively light 28lbs, so it’s not going to be too much of a hassle to store in and out of a vehicle, and with easily accessible side handles, you won’t have trouble getting a decent grip.
      In our opinion, the neatest thing about the Alpicool CF35 is that it is specifically built for off-roading purposes. That means it can tolerate strange angles that one might run into on backwoods adventures without missing a beat when it comes to keeping your food and beverages cool and fresh. On top of that, it also comes with a three-stage battery protection system, which keeps the cooler from draining your car battery completely, a good thing to have when you’re out and about in the backcountry!
      Verdict
      The biggest issue we found with this cooler is that airflow is necessary for it to function properly. The compressor must not be obscured by anything else in your vehicle, so it’s crucial you put it in a relatively open-air location. If you have a cramped vehicle, this may not be the best option for you on this list.

      Pros

      Great value for the price
      Lots of room for food and beverages
      Three-stage car battery protection system
      Built tough, and for off-roading
      Light despite its roomy interior

      Cons

      Needs proper airflow, or the compressor will not work adequately

      2. Best Value: Igloo Iceless Thermoelectric Cooler

      View on Amazon

      Why we like it: This solidly-built and well-insulated cooler from well-known brand Igloo can hold up to 32 12-oz cans at one time, all at a bargain price.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 28qt
      Weight: 10lbs
      Connections: 12-volt DC, 110-volt outlet
      Review
      Much like the Cooluli Mini Fridge on this list, the Igloo Iceless Thermoelectric cooler is a portable affair. This is very much a casual 12-volt cooler for things like short day trips, small picnics at the park, and other more minor events, as it has a relatively small capacity.
      With that being said, however, it still cools down to below 40 degrees and has enough capacity for a few days for a single person. And if you find the cooling capacity on this model lacking, there’s enough room in this model to add additional ice, keeping your food and beverages fresh for hours.
      This is a tough 12-volt cooler as well. Made of solid polypropylene plastic, if this model happens to take a nasty fall out of one’s vehicle, it will stay intact. This thing is built to last! On top of that, the cooling fan built into the top of the unit is pretty much silent, so you won’t have to deal with a loud, super-annoying cooling fan hum while trying to enjoy activities and conversation with your family and friends.
      To sweeten the design of this cooler more, the size and shape (a tall height but small, narrow base) help it fit pretty much anywhere in your vehicle, whether sitting somewhere in the trunk or even inside the cab in between seats. This efficient design makes it extremely versatile when it comes to storage.
      Verdict
      One of the biggest problems we found with the Igloo 12-volt cooler is that it requires an adapter to be used with indoor outlets. Other than that, especially for the price, it’s hard to beat this product, especially with all the great design features and the overall price point of the entire product. It’s a solid deal for a solidly-built 12-volt cooler.

      Pros

      8-foot long power cord
      Quiet motor
      Great insulated design
      Carry handle
      LED light on the plug when the unit is operational

      Cons

      Indoor use requires an adaptor

      3. Best Budget 12-Volt Cooler: Wagan 12V Cooler/Warmer

      View on Amazon

      Why we like it: This inexpensive cooling/heating unit is roomy and can even hold larger 2L bottles of water and soda.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 14L
      Weight: 10lbs
      Connections: 12-volt DC, AC adaptor sold separately
      Review
      This compact 12-volt cooler is a great and inexpensive option for any on-the-go family that wants a lot of storage space at a budget price.
      This 12-volt cooler can hold up to 12 regular-sized cans of soda OR two 2L bottles of soda. That’s a lot of space for an inexpensive model! And due to the awesome polyurethane foam insulated interior, your food and beverage choices will stay chilly for long periods.
      One of the cooler things we found about this product is the excellent 7.5-foot cord that comes with the cooler. This allows you to plug it up to your vehicle’s cigarette lighter or any other DC adaptor and have the cooler sit comfortably in the back seat, cooling (or heating) your food and drinks uninterrupted.
      Verdict
      The biggest problem we noticed with the Wagan cooler is that the top’s seal might come loose if the cooler is packed too full of goods, so that’s something to be aware of when you’re planning out a trip. Otherwise, this is a fantastic buy at its price point and will give you a lot of value in the long run.

      Pros

      7.5-foot cord provided
      Folding handle
      Polyurethane foam insulation
      Hot/Cold/Off indicator light

      Cons

      The top’s seal may not stay intact depending on how stuffed the cooler is

      4. Koolatron P-20 Compact Thermo

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: The narrow design of this 12-volt cooler makes it ideal for narrow spaces.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 18qt
      Weight: 5lbs
      Connections: 12-volt DC. 110/120-volt AC
      Review
      If you’re looking for a 12-volt cooler that can fit in pretty much any narrow space in your car, home, or some other area of your life with very little room, then the Koolatron P20 Compact is the option for you! Also, it’s a decent size at around 18 quarts, so it’s more than enough when it comes to storing food for one to two individuals.
      With a simple flip of a switch, this cooler can switch between cool and warm modes. The cool mode can go as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit below the outside temperature. However, if you’re looking to warm some food up on a cold winter day, the Koolatron P20 can also work in the opposite direction, warming things up to 135 degrees Fahrenheit. An AC adaptor can be purchased separately, allowing you to use this cooler with a standard outlet.
      Verdict
      The downside to the Koolatron P20 is that it doesn’t come with an AC adaptor. These can easily be bought separately, however, and we think the narrow design of this 12-volt cooler more than makes up for it.

      Pros

      Folding handle system
      Slender fit ideal for nooks and crannies in cramped vehicles
      Quiet cooling motor

      Cons

      AC adaptor sold separately

      5. Best Large 12-Volt Cooler: Costway 55 Quart Car Cooler

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: This 12-volt cooler borders on a full-blown car refrigerator with its fast cooling capabilities.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 52L
      Weight: 36lbs
      Connections: 12/24V DC, 110-240V AC
      Review
      This beast of a 12-volt cooler is closer to a car refrigerator more than any other item on this list, except maybe for the ARB Portable Fridge/Freezer.
      First up is the overall construction quality of this product. It’s built ridiculously tough, and it can withstand terrible drops. On top of that, it has a huge 52L carrying capacity, so this product can easily store food and beverages for an entire family, and then some.
      The Costway is also extremely cooling efficient. Within just 30 minutes, the Costway cooler can go from 90 degrees Fahrenheit to 32 Fahrenheit-an insane rate of cooling well worth the price tag.
      On top of all those fantastic features, the Costway cooler also comes with a lot of different accessories including an internal wire-constructed basket system for organizational purposes. It also comes with both AC as well as DC cables for both indoor as well as outdoor/vehicle use.
      Verdict
      As far as negatives go, the worst aspect of this product is its high energy consumption. For this reason, we don’t recommend it being connected to a car battery for too long if the vehicle’s engine isn’t running. Other than that, this is a superb product that is possibly the best family option on this list.

      Pros

      3 different settings for car battery usage
      Vivid LCD
      Comes with power cord
      30-minute fast cooldown
      Huge amount of carrying space

      Cons

      Potentially can drain a car battery fast

      6. Best Premium 12-Volt Cooler: ARB Portable Fridge/Freezer

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: Widely considered to be the best 12-volt cooler/refrigerator on the market. If you’ve got the cash, this model will be sure to please.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 37Qt
      Weight: 56lbs
      Connections: 12/24V DC and 120V AC
      Review
      First things first, the interior is incredibly spacious, and the 37qt model can hold a whopping 50 12oz cans of soda. So, use that as a mental picture to help you understand the sheer volume of space this cooler has!
      As a compression-based 12-volt refrigerator, the outside temperature doesn’t really matter much to it when it comes to its maximum cooling capabilities. Even in the hottest conditions, it can go as low as zero degrees Fahrenheit.
      It’s also built extremely tough. This product was made for the intrepid adventurer in mind. Not only does it function at pretty much any angle of incline, but it can keep food cold as long as a refrigerator if used properly.
      Verdict
      This is obviously a very high-end product, and with it comes a steep price tag. Additionally, an additional purchase of an insulation jacket might be necessary to help insulate while staying cold in hot temperatures. If you’ve got the cash, however, this is a great purchase option.

      Pros

      Comes in 37, 50, and 82-quart versions
      Holds up to 50 12oz cans of soda
      Can go as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit
      Comes with two power cables: DC and AC
      Comes with a three-year warranty

      Cons

      Extremely expensive
      Might need extra insulation

      7. Knox Gear 48 Quart Electric Cooler/Warmer

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: This 12-volt cooler comes complete with wheels, making this one of the most mobile options on our list.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 48qt
      Weight: 16lbs
      Connections: 12V DC and 110V AC
      Review
      The presence of wheels on this 12-volt cooler is the first really noticeable thing with this product. With a 48-quart carrying capacity, you’re possibly going to need those wheels in order to lug around everything you can fit in this thing!
      The most crucial thing to note about this cooler, however, is how it’s designed. There are two handles built into it. One extends outward much like you would see on a wheeled luggage carrier, the others are embedded on the side as you would see on any cooler you could purchase at a local grocery store. This makes transporting the large cooler easy.
      Even the cord systems are built into the cooler itself, so you won’t have any chance of losing them. In fact, they have a built-in section dedicated just for them alone, which we found to be a really neat addition.
      Verdict
      This product comes with a pretty short cord, so you’re not going to be taking this 12-volt cooler too far from the car or electrical outlet. However, for its price, storage capacity, and the fact that it’s wheeled, this is a fantastic choice for your cooling needs.

      Pros

      Comes with DC and AC cables
      Lots of space
      Great price
      Wheeled for easier movement

      Cons

      The power cord could definitely be longer.

      8. Cooluli Mini Fridge Electric Cooler/Warmer

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: It’s a small, compact, low cost, and a great starter cooler for keeping a small amount of food cool on the road.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 4qt
      Weight: 4lbs
      Connections: AC, DC, USB
      Review
      This cooler is super compact and looks more like a powered lunchbox than a refrigerator. However, if you’re not too concerned about a small capacity, this 12-volt cooler might be the item you’re looking for.
      A great thing about this cooler is it comes with both an AC adaptor (for at-home use) as well as a DC cable for use with a vehicle. On top of that, it also comes with USB capabilities, but we wouldn’t recommend that as the cooling/heating output isn’t as good with that sort of connection.
      This cooler is also a fantastic pick for the individual who is looking to let their personality shine with their choice of product. The Cooluli comes with a whopping seven different color options to choose from, allowing you a greater range of aesthetic options than most of the products on this list.
      Verdict
      Sitting in the $50 range, the best thing about this product is its price. The cost, while awesome, comes at a cost of additional space. The cooler can only fit a maximum of 6 cans of soda, so it’s really not the most ideal for family situations, but probably better suited for an individual that’s on the go, or is looking for a low-cost solution to transporting their medications, such as insulin. But even then, you could go with better options on this list.

      Pros

      Comes in lots of color choices
      One of the most affordable 12-volt coolers on the market
      Small, space-efficient design
      Great for truckers and individuals on the go
      Helpful carrying handle

      Cons

      Not big enough for family use

      9. Koolatron P27 Voyager

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: This solidly built 12-volt cooler is a good choice for people looking for simplicity over extras.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 29qt
      Weight: 11lbs
      Connections: 12V DC and 110V AC
      Review
      The Koolatron Voyager is a decent thermoelectric cooler that can hold quite a bit of food and drink for your family’s needs. It also doubles as a food warmer in a pinch as well, like most thermoelectric coolers on this list.
      What separates this product from other inexpensive coolers like the Cooluli Mini Fridge and the Wagan 12v is how absolutely solid it is built. In fact, the manufacturer specifically says that the only movable aspect of the cooler is the actual motor of the cooling fan itself. Because of this solid-state sort of construction, it pretty much ensures that this product won’t break down.
      Verdict
      A couple of things knocked the score of this product down a bit. For one, there’s no AC adaptor included with the product, forcing you to buy it separately. Also, and probably the biggest issue, the power cord mechanism here can easily loosen from the body of the cooler. This could be a really bad prospect if one lost the cord during the middle of a camping trip, causing countless dollars of food and drink to potentially go to waste.

      Pros

      Automatic locking mechanism built into the handle
      Big enough for a family
      Great price

      Cons

      Doesn’t include AC adaptor
      The power cord can loosen easily

      10. Coleman 40-Quart Portable Cooler

      View on Amazon
      Why we like it: The Coleman portable cooler is a solid low-cost option for families who are looking for a lot of storage space on a lower budget.
      Editor’s Rating:

      Specs
      Capacity: 40Qt
      Weight: 15lbs
      Connections: 12V DC and 110V AC
      Review
      Coleman is a well-known name in coolers and outdoor supplies, and we just had to include one of their products on our list of 12-volt coolers. This is a great option if you’re on a budget and you need a lot of storage space at the same time.
      The most noticeable thing about this cooler is its slick “door” design. This allows it not only to be used in an upright position but also down on its side like a traditional refrigerator setup.
      Additionally, the Coleman cooler isn’t that heavy at 15 lbs, which makes it light enough to be transportable. And with a 40qt interior, you’ll have more than enough room for food and beverages for everyone.
      Verdict
      Although it’s a good low-cost option, there are some problems with this Coleman cooler. First off, the cooling fan built into the model is quite loud. Coleman doesn’t have the best reputation for durable products either, especially with prolonged use in high-temperature areas. The Coleman 12-volt cooler doesn’t really work efficiently in places with ambient temperature over 80 degrees, so take that into consideration before purchase. If you’re looking for a cooler that keeps things cool even in ultra-hot climates, check out the ARB Portable Fridge/Freezer.

      Pros

      Can be used upright or more like a chest
      Efficient “door” design
      Affordable for the volume

      Cons

      Loud cooling fan
      Can give out with prolonged use in the heat

      Guide to Buying The Best 12-Volt Cooler
      Here are a few additional in-depth points that we feel can expand a bit more on what we originally covered in the brief buyer’s guide that went over earlier in the article. Let’s take a closer look at what makes owning a 12-volt cooler product such a cool prospect!
      The Positives of Buying a 12-Volt Cooler
      Individuals have been using 12-volt coolers for years, especially if they are one the road a lot. Truck drivers, who are extremely vital to keeping the United States economy in tip-top shape, absolutely rely on them when it comes to keeping their food and drink supply properly maintained while dealing with transporting freight.
      Diet
      The rest of the population, however, has also caught on to the value of these coolers, and with good reason. If your job has you on the road often and you adhere to a specific dietary needs, then a 12-volt cooler might be your ticket to a better level of health. It’s a sad fact that fast food options and your typical gas station eats don’t cut it when it comes to overall healthy eating, but with a 12-volt cooler in your vehicle’s arsenal, you can bypass the less-than-stellar food lining America’s highways.
      Keeping Medicines Cold
      In some more serious cases, a 12-volt cooler can even help ensure that people have access to medicine while also providing peace of mind. People with diabetic conditions that require insulin supplementation can safely store their materials in a 12-volt cooler in case of a serious emergency and not worry about spoiling their life-saving medical supplies while on long car trips or in hot weather conditions.
      Extra Features
      Some 12-volt coolers come complete with USB ports embedded in them. This is a fantastic addition for not just you but the entire family. On the off chance that you didn’t store any form of external power sources with you prior to a middle-of-nowhere camping outing, no fear! These sorts of coolers can charge up your smartphone and any number of other USB-related devices as long as your car has gas.
      Financial Considerations
      Last, but not least, we think one of the very best reasons to invest in a 12-volt cooler is that you will definitely end up saving more money in the long run than you would without one. Convenience food is just that, convenient, and it comes at a cost that adds up. Why not load up on your favorite snacks, beverages, and quality meals before going out on the road in the first place? Not only is it smart on a sheer financial level, but it also gives you complete control over your trip. You’ll never have to make a pit stop for a can of energy drink ever again!
      Types of 12-Volt Coolers
      There are a few different versions of a 12-volt cooler on the market, mainly distinguishable by the way they keep things cool. Check out the following types of coolers.
      Thermoelectric
      This is the main kind of 12-volt cooler you’re going to find available. They are usually not very bulky and can cool items 30-40 degrees below outside temperature depending on the model, no ice needed!
      Thermoelectric coolers utilize what is known as the Peltier effect in order to facilitate heat transfer. This transfer takes place between two internal semiconductor “plates” that are constantly shifting heat to one another; so while one of these plates is losing heat energy, another one is gaining it. The cooling plate is located on the inside of the cooler, while the heating plate is located on the outside of the cooler.
      When the plate on the inside of the cooler reaches lower temperature levels, it will also lower the overall temperature inside the cooler as a whole. Ideally, if the cooler is very well insulated, it will stay that way!
      The interesting thing about thermoelectric coolers is that you can replace the inner cooling plate with the outside heating plate and convert your 12-volt cooler into a 12 volt warmer in a jiffy. Not only can you keep food cool, but you can also keep it warm at your discretion.
      Something to be clear about with thermoelectric coolers, however… they can not keep food frozen, so be aware of that before considering any kind of purchase. These are better for shorter car trips or if you live in a colder climate than other parts of the world. If you live in a place where the daily temperature gets to 75 degrees Fahrenheit or more, this type of 12-volt cooler won’t keep your items very cold for long at all.
      Compressor Coolers
      Compressor-based cooling systems use refrigerant liquid or some other type of coolant-based substance to properly manipulate the internal temperature of the cooler. These types of 12-volt coolers are equivalent to home refrigeration systems and can be used for both keeping items relatively cool as well as outright freezing them.
      Compressor refrigeration units literally “compress” the refrigerant fluid inside the unit. This increases pressure and temperature in the process. The super pressurized refrigerant then becomes a gas and snakes through the condenser coils located on the outside of the unit. Since these coils are out in the open, they are then exposed to outside temperatures. If the outside temperature is lower than the refrigerant’s temperature, then the refrigerant becomes liquid. This highly-pressurized liquid then moves through a narrowly-shaped expansion valve and emerges as supercooled vapor.
      Absorption Refrigerators
      These are the heavy-hitters of the 12 volt cooler world. They also happen to use an insane amount of power and are best used in RVs as opposed to standard road vehicles, as the power required for these coolers can easily exhaust a full car battery very fast. If you buy an absorption refrigerator, we recommend purchasing a deep cycle battery.
      FAQ
      Can 12-volt coolers drain a car battery with prolonged use?
      If your vehicle is currently on the go, or the engine is running, then a 12-volt cooler won’t tax your car battery. A good recommendation is to always unplug your cooler when you park your vehicle, that way it won’t sap any excess energy from your car battery. A car battery can support a cooler for a short period of time without the motor running.
      How long does it take for a 12-volt cooler to lower its temperature?
      A lot of this depends on the temperature outside or in one’s vehicle, but a good litmus to go by is usually at least one hour or a little over an hour for your cooler to hit a decent 30-40 degree lower temperature. Prepping and pre-cooling your cooler in the comfort of your own home before making a trip is a practical option in order to bypass long cooling times.
      Is the warming portion of a 12-volt cooler really that effective?
      Some 12-volt coolers can warm food items as well as keep them cold. This, however, is not the equivalent to utilizing something like a microwave or an oven. The heat setting on 12-volt thermoelectric coolers like the Koolatron P-20 and the Wagan 12v generally is just to keep food at a certain “fresh” temperature (such as a sandwich or a nice cup of coffee) so that you aren’t consuming ice-cold food when you don’t have to.
      How cold can 12-volt coolers get?
      Now, this really depends on the product, but usually, 12-volt coolers can pump out temperatures 30-40 degrees lower than the current temperature in one’s geographic area, ensuring the food and beverages inside are at a nice and chilly state of being.
      Can a 12-volt cooler keep food cold even when unplugged?
      This really depends on the overall quality of one’s product, however, generally speaking, a cooler should keep food and beverages chilly for several hours assuming the lid on the cooler stays closed and sealed. The length of this time can vary depending on the product you purchase.
      Helpful Hints for Using a 12-Volt Cooler
      It’s crucial to note that every 12-volt cooler is going to be different. Be sure to consult the manual that comes with it in order to set it up and utilize it to its maximum capacity. However, here are a few nonspecific tips to get the most out of your new cooling unit.
      Keep all 12-volt coolers level inside your vehicle if at all possible. This applies even if it’s plugged in or not. It’s good to make this a habit, even if your model specifies that it doesn’t matter if it needs to be level or not.
      This seems like a no-brainer, but keep your cooler clean. Not only will it cut down on nasty odors in the long run, but it also will ultimately keep more serious issues, such as mold and bacteria, at bay.
      A lot of 12-volt cooler models come with a decent amount of power cord, but if you’re not 100% sure, always bring an extra extension cord with you on your trip as you’ll never know if you might need it.
      Do you live in a really hot environment? If so, consider adding even more insulation to the outside of your 12-volt cooler. Some models come with these covers already with the product itself, but others can be purchased separately.
      Ice isn’t needed for things like thermoelectric coolers, however, in hotter climates, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to add some inside the cooler to keep things as cool as possible or to prolong the useable unplugged time of a cooler. Be sure to put the ice in a sealable, tough bag of some kind, otherwise, you’re going to be cleaning up a lot of water.
      For even more helpful tips on what to look for when buying a 12-volt cooler, please check out this video.
      Final Considerations
      12-volt coolers are a great addition to any vehicle, especially on extended. Coolers allow some of the conveniences of being at home, helping keep food nice and fresh while out on the road for long periods of time. They even come in handy for individuals that need to keep precious materials, such as medicines, chilled and always at the ready for when they are needed the most.
      If you are still having a problem considering any of the products we chose for our list, take another look at our short buyer’s guide as well as our extended buyer’s guide for a much more in-depth look on what you should really look out for in a quality 12-volt cooler for your personal needs.
      Until next time, we’ll see you on the road! More