The 2026 Nissan Leaf will serve as the model for Mitsubishi’s next electric vehicle

Mitsubishi Motors is making a significant return to the electric vehicle market in North America with an all-new EV set to launch in summer 2026. This marks the Japanese automaker’s second fully-electric offering in the U.S. market since its pioneering but short-lived i-MiEV debuted over a decade ago.

The yet-unnamed vehicle will share its platform with Nissan’s third-generation Leaf, utilizing the advanced CMF-EV architecture that currently underpins the Nissan Ariya SUV. This strategic partnership within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance allows Mitsubishi to accelerate its EV development while keeping costs competitive.

Key Details About Mitsubishi’s New EV

Platform and Performance

Built on Nissan’s CMF-EV platform (shared with Ariya and next-gen Leaf)
Expected to offer up to 304 miles of range (based on Ariya’s performance)
Likely to feature dual-motor AWD option (following Alliance trends)

Market Positioning

Part of Mitsubishi’s “Momentum 2030” growth strategy
Will join an electrified lineup including the popular Outlander PHEV
Represents Mitsubishi’s commitment to offering ICE, PHEV, and BEV options

Why This Launch Matters

1. Mitsubishi’s North American Resurgence

The automaker reported an 11% year-over-year sales increase in Q1 2025, largely driven by its Outlander SUV series. This new EV could help capitalize on that momentum as consumer interest in electric vehicles continues to grow.

2. Filling a Critical Market Gap

As Mark Chaffin, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America, stated:

“Our new lineup will give customers the choice of technology that best suits their needs.”

This approach acknowledges that different buyers have varying readiness levels for full electrification.

3. Manufacturing Considerations

A major unanswered question is where Mitsubishi will produce the vehicle:

The company’s former Normal, IL plant now belongs to Rivian
Avoiding 25% import tariffs on Japanese-built vehicles may require domestic production
Potential for utilizing Nissan’s Smyrna, TN facility or other Alliance plants

Competitive Landscape

The new Mitsubishi EV will enter a crowded but growing segment, competing with:

Nissan Ariya (platform sibling)
Toyota bZ4X
Hyundai Kona Electric
Chevrolet Equinox EV

Mitsubishi’s potential advantages could include:

More affordable pricing than the Ariya
Unique styling and packaging
Enhanced off-road capabilities (leveraging Mitsubishi’s 4WD heritage)

What We’re Still Waiting to Learn

Mitsubishi has been tight-lipped about specific details, leaving several key questions unanswered:

Exact battery size and charging capabilities
Pricing strategy (likely between 35,000−35,000−45,000)
Production location and capacity
Unique selling points versus Nissan-badged counterparts

The Bigger Picture: Mitsubishi’s Electrification Roadmap

This launch represents just the beginning of Mitsubishi’s renewed electrification push. The company has committed to introducing:

A new or significantly revised model every year from 2026-2030
Multiple EV options across segments
Continued development of PHEV technology

For consumers, this means more choices from a brand known for capable, affordable vehicles. For the industry, it signals that even smaller automakers are making serious commitments to electrification.

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Cars

Chevrolet’s Silverado ZR2 looks great, but smart money buys a different trim

by George Mensah 2025-11-27

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 remains one of America’s most popular full-size trucks, competing head-to-head with the heavy hitters: the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Toyota Tundra. As Chevy’s best-selling vehicle, the Silverado offers a wide mix of engines, three cab configurations, multiple bed lengths, and a long list of customizable features. There’s even an all-electric Silverado for buyers looking to ditch gasoline entirely.

But perhaps the most exciting part of the Silverado range is its wide variety of off-road-focused trims; from basic work-ready models to premium, adventure-ready machines, Chevrolet has created options for nearly every budget and terrain.

Where the ZR2 Sits in the Lineup

At the top of the off-road hierarchy is the Silverado ZR2-the brand’s most trail-capable gas-powered variant. While not quite as extreme as the Ford F-150 Raptor or Ram RHO, the ZR2 nonetheless delivers serious off-road performance courtesy of hardware specifically engineered for rocky, muddy, and uneven conditions.

Pricing for the 2026 ZR2 begins at $74,690 including the $2,595 destination fee. For that premium price, buyers get:

A 2-inch factory lift

Multimatic DSSV dampers featuring exceptional off-road control

High-clearance bumpers

Aluminum skid plates

33-inch mud-terrain tires

Exterior design that is muscular and clearly sets it apart from lower trims

The ZR2 is a powerhouse—but it’s also a major investment.

Why the Trail Boss Models Stand Out for Budget-Conscious Off-Roaders

Lower in the lineup sit a pair of trims that promise formidable capability at a friendlier price: the LT Trail Boss and Custom Trail Boss.

These trims don’t have the extreme engineering of the ZR2, but in the real world of off-roading-mud trails, forest roads, campsites, and mild rock sections-they do far better than many buyers expect.

Price Breakdown

2026 Silverado ZR2: $74,690

2026 LT Trail Boss: $62,195

2026 Custom Trail Boss: $55,395

The Custom Trail Boss is nearly $20,000 cheaper than the ZR2 and $7,000 below the LT Trail Boss. For drivers who enjoy personalizing their trucks with aftermarket upgrades, the Trail Boss trims leave a lot of room in the budget.

What You Get With the Custom Trail Boss

For being on the more budget-friendly end of off-road trims, the Custom Trail Boss is relatively well-equipped:

Standard Equipment Includes:

2-inch suspension lift with the Z71 off-road package

Underbody skid plates (oil pan, transfer case, differential)

Red tow hooks for recovery situations

Hill Descent Control

18-inch black wheels with Goodyear mud-terrain tires

Four-wheel drive standard

A 7-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Engine & Performance

Standard power for both the Custom Trail Boss and LT Trail Boss is Chevy’s TurboMax 2.7-liter four-cylinder, which churns out:

305 horsepower

430 lb-ft of torque

8-speed automatic transmission

This engine has great low-end torque, perfect for off-road crawls and rough terrain.

Where It Falls Short

The Custom Trail Boss foregoes many comfort and tech features, such as:

Heated seats

Wireless smartphone charging

360-degree camera system

Larger 13.4-inch touchscreen

These can be found on the LT Trail Boss, for those buyers willing to invest a little more.

Methodology: Why the Trail Boss Trims Make More Sense for Most Drivers

But after considerable hands-on testing and experience with the lineup on off-road terrain, most drivers clearly don’t need a full ZR2 package. The ZR2 shines in extreme situations of deep ruts, high-speed desert runs, or technical rock crawling, but full-size truck owners generally want:

The capable 4×4

Enough ground clearance for uneven trails

Strong towing capacity

A price that doesn’t sink their budget

And that is where the Trail Boss trims shine.

How Trail Boss Stacks Up Against Competitors

Across the market,

The Ford Raptor is better suited to more desert-style off-roading.

The Ram RHO prioritizes high-speed terrain and aggressive performance.

But for everyday adventurers-those pulling a camper, driving muddy access roads, or exploring forest trails-the Silverado LT Trail Boss and Custom Trail Boss offer power, capability, and value.

Bottom Line The ZR2 is a great machine for hardcore off-road enthusiasts, but the price keeps it out of reach for most buyers. The LT and Custom Trail Boss trims strike the perfect balance between trail capability, comfort, and affordability. For most drivers looking for adventure without overspending, the Trail Boss models represent the best blend of rugged performance and real-world usability.

Cars

RESALE VALUE OF THE MAZDA CX-5: HOW QUICK HAS THE SUV DEPRECIATED?

by George Mensah 2025-11-15

The Mazda CX-5 has been one of Mazda’s most influential models since its debut in 2012. Now entering its third generation with the 2026 model year, this compact SUV remains at the heart of the brand’s global success. Over 4.5 million units have been sold worldwide, of which 1.6 million were purchased in the United States, thus easily making it one of Mazda’s most successful nameplates.

But for many shoppers, especially in the used market, one major question remains: How well does the Mazda CX-5 hold its value over time?

Depreciation Breakdown: How Much Value Does a Mazda CX-5 Lose?

The resale value largely depends on the level of depreciation-the natural decline in a vehicle’s worth as time and mileage pile up. While CarEdge data indicates that the CX-5 holds its value relatively well for its class, it still depreciates more quickly than many of its top competitors.

Two-Year-Old Mazda CX-5

Average Depreciation: $12,963

Value Retained: 66.57%

Estimated Resale Value: $25,815

Mileage Assumption: 27,000 miles total (13,500 per year)

Five-Year-Old Mazda CX-5

Average Depreciation: $16,217

Value Retained: 58.18%

Estimated Resale Value: $22,561

Mileage Assumption: 67,500 miles total

These numbers suggest that while the CX-5 retains decent value, it nevertheless surrenders a significant portion of its value within the first five-year period, which is typically where most vehicles lose their value the fastest.

What Influences Depreciation Beyond Age and Mileage?

While time and mileage are the primary drivers of depreciation, several other factors play a major role in how much a used CX-5 is worth:

History of maintenance

The better choice will always be a well-maintained CX-5.

Consistent oil changes

Scheduled services according to Mazda’s recommendations

Proper care for brakes, tires, and fluids

Complete service records can help your vehicle sell more quickly and bring a better sale price.

Type of Driving

A car that does a lot of highway driving is often easier on the vehicle than constant stop-and-go city driving. A CX-5 that has spent its entire life doing long road trips might show less wear than one used to commute daily.

History of Accidents

Clean CarFax or AutoCheck reports greatly increase resale value.

Trim Level and Features

Higher trims, such as the Grand Touring or Signature, especially those with premium packages, will generally retain value better than their base-model brethren.

How the CX-5 Stacks Up Against Its Rivals

The compact SUV segment is highly competitive, with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester always ranking near the very top in resale value. Here’s how the CX-5 compares:

After 2 Years

Toyota RAV4: 83.52% retained

Honda CR-V: 78.77%

Subaru Forester: 77.20%

Mazda CX-5: 66.57%

After 5 Years

Toyota RAV4: 69.42% retained

Honda CR-V: 67.01%

Subaru Forester: 65.98%

Mazda CX-5: 58.18%

These figures indicate that the CX-5 depreciates more quickly than its most popular rivals. For buyers, this is actually a good thing – used CX-5 models usually sell for less than similarly-equipped RAV4s or CR-Vs.

For sellers, though, the lower resale value means they may not recover as much of their investment when it’s time to move on.

The Bottom Line: Who Benefits Most?

Buyers: Buyers benefit by paying lower used prices because of higher depreciation.

Sellers: See resale returns lower than that of CR-V and RAV4 owners.

Simply stated, high depreciation works in the buyer’s favor, while strong resale value benefits the seller. Knowing which side you’re on helps you make the smartest financial decision.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Mazda CX-5

Mazda is getting ready to introduce the highly anticipated third-generation CX-5 for the 2026 model year. Early reports indicate that

Refined design inspired by the CX-60 and CX-70

Updated safety and entertainment technology

More efficient powertrains

Improved handling and comfort These upgrades might be worth considering for shoppers who are torn between buying used or waiting for the latest model.

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