Ahead of the Curve

ROAD REPORT

NEWS & EXPERT ADVICE TO KEEP YOU AHEAD OF THE CURVE™

FIRST DRIVE

Ford Maverick

Sharing some major parts with the Ford Bronco Sport SUV, the low-priced Maverick is a refreshing alternative to larger pickup trucks. It’s available with front- or allwheel drive, has a base hybrid powertrain and uplevel turbo engine, and comes standard with FCW and AEB. CR’S TAKE: The Maverick’s suspension keeps the truck steady without the rocking typical of traditional trucks. The small size and good outward visibility make it easy to navigate through parking lots and narrow streets. Plus, the turbo version we bought is EPA-rated for a thrifty 25 mpg combined.

BASE PRICE RANGE $19,995-$26,945

DESTINATION CHARGE $1,495 PRICE AS DRIVEN $29,965

TIP FROM THE TEST TRACK Now’s the Time to Give Your Car a Spring Refresh

Wipers: Replace the blades to prepare for the rainy season. (Wipers tend to last only about six months.) Tires: Warm weather means the tires could be overinflated—pressure rises and falls with temperatures. Check monthly and adjust to the pressure indicated on the door placard. Cabin air filter: Prepare for pollen season by replacing this filter. Doing it yourself (use the owner’s manual for guidance) may save $50 or more. Car wash: If the car was driven in road salt, run it through a car wash to remove any residue. Polish or wax: Provide protection from the spring assault of pollen, bugs, bird droppings, etc. (Waxes typically last only two to three months.)

AHEAD OF THE CURVE Better Headlights Are Here

Adaptive driving beam (ADB) headlights, available in Europe and Canada for years, are now approved for use on new cars in the U.S.

“ADB headlights provide visibility similar to high beams but limit glare for oncoming vehicles and the vehicle ahead of you,” says Jennifer Stockburger, director of operations at CR’s Auto Test Center and head of CR’s headlight testing program.

THE VITAL STATISTIC 28%

Increase in the average listing price of a used car from December 2020 to December 2021. “Used-car prices are at an all-time high, but the good news is that if you need to trade in your car to buy a new one, it’s going to be worth more than ever,” says CR’s Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing.

Source: Cox Automotive analysis of Auto Available Inventory data.

RECALL

Hyundai, Kia

Hyundai and Kia have issued recalls for more than 480,000 vehicles that can catch fire: 2016 to 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe, 2017 and 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL, 2014 to 2015 Hyundai Tucson, 2014 to 2016 Kia Sportage, and 2016 to 2018 Kia K900. WHAT TO DO: Dealers will repair the issue at no charge. Park outdoors until the recall work is completed. For more information, contact Hyundai at 855-371-9460 or Kia at 800-333-4542.