Lexus LS500 2018

The 2018 Lexus LS is all-new and now rides on the new GA-L platform that first appeared on the LC coupe. In addition to the gas-powered variant, there’s also a hybrid model.

Compared to the outgoing model, the 2018 Lexus LS is much larger. The 2018 model is longer than the long-wheelbase version of the outgoing car. The previous model’s V-8 engine has also been replaced by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 rated at 415 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission replaces the old eight-speed unit. The hybrid model returns but is now makes use of a 3.5-liter V-6 coupled to an electric motor, a lithium-ion battery, a CVT and a four-speed automatic. Total output stands at 354 hp.

 

The F Sport trim receives 20-inch alloy wheels, larger brakes measuring 15.7 inches up front and 14.1 inches in the back and summer performance tires for the rear-drive LS 500 F Sport. An optional Handling package adds variable gear ratio steering, active rear steering, an active stabilizer, and a sport-tuned air suspension. F Sport variants also receive a revised spindle grille, rocker panels, trunk moldings, F Sport exclusive front seats, a unique F Sport steering wheel, an LFA-inspired gauge cluster, aluminum pedals, and Ultrasuede upholstery. The LS 500 and LS 500h can both be had in F Sport trim.

Adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with steering assist, and intelligent high beams should come standard in the 2018 LS as part of the Lexus Safety System+ suite of active safety and driver assistance features. Expect other features such as blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert and lane keeping assist to also be available

We haven’t driven the 2018 Lexus LS yet but we expect it to be a more luxurious car than its predecessor. The hybrid variant should be more fuel efficient as it has ditched the 5.0-liter V-8 in favor of a 3.5-liter V-6 as its gas engine. Both the LS 500 and LS 500H should be better to drive and ride much better thanks to the new platform.

Nissan Terra 2018

After initial reveal earlier this year, the Nissan Terra SUV went on sale in China in May 2018. It is a contemporary version of the N300 Navara pickup truck with a family-focussed attitude amidst capable of going off-road. Following the current XTerra that is in business since 1999, it was expected to be named Paladin and Pathfinder in different markets across the world but Nissan sticks with Terra nomenclature for Asian markets including China and Indonesia.

Power in the Terra comes from a 2.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine making 140kW and 450Nm, fed to all four wheels through a switchable four-wheel drive system and a seven-speed torque converter automatic. Although its outputs are identical, the 2.3-litre four from our Navara is Euro V compliant, whereas the 2.5-litre unit is not.

As for the side profile, the Terra 2018 looks even bolder thanks to:

• Big set of 18-inch alloy wheels;
• Flared fenders;
• Blackened glass area;
• Signal indicator featured ORVMs with chrome-trimmed caps;
• Chrome-finished door handles;
• Generous ground clearance which is visible due to its high sitting stance

Speaking of safety features, like the revised X-Trail, the Nissan Terra 2018 is very protective with a host of Nissan's Intelligent Mobility Features such as:

• Intelligent Rear View Mirror
• 360-degree around-view monitor
• Rear cross traffic alert
• Lane departure warning
• Reverse camera
• Airbags
• ABC
• Hill-descent control
• Vehicle dynamic control
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Parking sensors

Toyota Avalon 2019

The completely redesigned 2019 Toyota Avalon earns one of the top spots in large car rankings because it's a well-rounded sedan with few obvious flaws.

Pros & Cons

• Expansive seats
• Lots of driver assistance features
• Cushioned ride
• Upscale interior

• High base price
• Infotainment system can be slow to respond

  

FEATURES AND SPECS

• 5 Seating
• FWD Drivetrain
• 22 City 
• 31-32 HWY
• 301 Horsepower

The Toyota Avalon is a good car. It gets good gas mileage, has a fairly powerful engine, handles well, and delivers a smooth ride. Inside, it's upscale and spacious, and it offers a litany of active safety features. The Avalon doesn't have any major flaws; it just doesn't lead the class in some areas.

Toyota redesigned the Avalon for the 2019 model year, making it the first edition of the new Avalon generation. The 2019 model has 33 more horsepower and gets slightly better mpg ratings than the 2018 model. The trunk is a hair bigger in the new model, and the 2019 Avalon has more standard features than the outgoing model (including blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert). It also offers features you couldn't get in previous Avalons, like a 9-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, a head-up display, a surround-view camera, and rear cross traffic braking.