2015-12-07

It’s a great time to be in the market for a new truck, crossover, or van—but with so many choices, where do you start? Right here. The Ultimate 2016 New Truck, SUV, and Van Buyer’s Guide is a great way to get a basic feel for what’s new on everything from the growing subcompact crossover class to full-size trucks.

So whether you’re interested in commercial vans, midsize trucks, three-row crossovers, or minivans, you’ll find info on fuel economy, powertrains, safety, and even IntelliChoice five-year retained value on many entries. And when you’re looking for even more in-depth info, consider our comprehensive online buyer’s guide pages.

Interested in a new car? Check out the Ultimate 2016 New Car Buyer’s Guide right here.

Automakers in the 2016 New Truck, SUV, and Van Buyer’s Guide

Acura

Chrysler

Hyundai

Lexus

Nissan

Audi

Dodge

Infiniti

Lincoln

Porsche

BMW

Fiat

Jaguar

Mazda

Ram

Buick

Ford

Jeep

Mercedes-Benz

Subaru

Cadillac

GMC

Kia

Mini

Tesla

Chevrolet

Honda

Land Rover

Mitsubishi

Toyota

Volkswagen

Volvo

KEY

5M: 5-speed manual

6A: 6-speed automatic

6-sp auto-cl man: 6-speed auto-clutch manual

7-sp twin-cl auto: 7-speed twin-clutch automatic

FWD: front-wheel drive

AWD: all-wheel drive

RWD: rear-wheel drive

All-New: New inside and out, possible powertrain changes

Major: Mid-cycle change updates, minor powertrain changes

Minor: Special editions, significant new features

Unchanged: Minor trim or package changes, new colors

NHTSA and IIHS: Safety data derived from 2015 or 2016 model ratings

IntelliChoice: Five-year retained value data may apply to common vehicle variants, not an average of all model variants.

2016 Acura MDX



Base Price: $43,805-$45,805

Body Type: SUV

Major: The nine-speed automatic first introduced on the TLX V-6 has made its way to the MDX along with a revised AWD system. AcuraWatch, a suite of safety aids that includes road departure mitigation, rear cross traffic alert, and collision mitigation, is now available. Despite its size, the seven-passenger MDX accelerates and handles well with moves that belie its two-ton curb weight, making it one of the best-driving SUVs in its class.

Cool Fact: The MDX is the best-selling vehicle in Acura’s lineup.

Sum Up: Proof that sportiness and family-friendliness aren’t mutually exclusive.

Acura MDX

Base Engine

3.5L/290-hp/267-lb-ft V-6

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD/AWD, 9A

Towing

3,500 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

18-20/26-27 mpg

0-60 mph

6.4 sec

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars; IIHS: TSP+

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

51%

2016 Acura RDX



Base Price: $36,210-$37,710

Body Type: SUV

Major: Refreshed with a revised suspension and a more powerful V-6 with a broader torque curve, the RDX aims to keep itself relevant in the luxury crossover segment. Other changes include the addition of Jewel Eye LED headlights and a host of safety aids, including collision mitigation, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot warning. The body structure has been improved for better front collision performance.

Cool Fact: The V-6 engine can operate in four-cylinder mode to optimize fuel economy during light loads.

Sum Up: The crossover for those who want an MDX in a smaller package.

Acura RDX

Base Engine

3.5L/279-hp/252-lb-ft V-6

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD/AWD, 6A

Towing

1,500 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

19-20/28-29 mpg

0-60 mph

6.2 sec

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars; IIHS: TSP+

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

53%

* Estimated

2016 Audi Allroad

Base Price: $43,625

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: A leather-wrapped, three-spoke steering wheel is now standard on all Allroads. The Navigation package now comes with hands-free keyless entry/start and 4G LTE connectivity, and the Technology package for the Premium Plus trim adds a Bang & Olufsen sound system. AWD remains standard, and the venerable 2.0-liter, turbo I-4 and eight-speed automatic continue to be the only powertrain available on this upscale Outback alternative.

Look For: A new Allroad to follow after the new 2017 A4 arrives in the U.S.

Sum Up: The most carlike of Audi’s crossovers.

Audi Allroad

Base Engine

2.0L/220-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, AWD, 8A

Towing

1,000 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

21/28 mpg

0-60 mph

6.4 sec

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

47%

* Estimated

2016 Audi Q3

Base Price: $34,625-$36,725

Body Type: SUV

Minor: The 2016 Q3 receives subtle exterior and interior design changes, including a redesigned grille, bumper, side sills, headlights, and taillights. Front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are now standard on all Q3s, and four new colors are available. The Prestige package now includes full LED headlights.

Cool Fact: In Europe, the Q3 is available in a high-performance model called the RS Q3; it’s powered by a 340-hp, turbo inline-five mated to a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic.

Sum Up: Essentially an A3 hatchback on stilts.

Audi Q3

Base Engine

2.0L/200-hp/207-lb-ft turbo I-4

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD/AWD, 6A

Towing

1,000 lb*

EPA Econ City/Hwy

20/28-29 mpg

0-60 mph

7.8-8.2 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

52%

* Estimated

2016 Audi Q5/SQ5

Base Price: $41,825-$54,225

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: The Audi Q5 sees packaging changes across the range. The Navigation Plus package now includes 4G LTE connectivity and a panoramic sunroof, and the Technology package for the Premium Plus trim comes with a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The SQ5 gets new 20-inch alloy wheels in the Black Optics package, and adaptive damping suspension is a standalone option in the SQ5 Premium Plus.

Driver’s Choice: The SQ5 proves that crossovers can be great sporting machines, too.

Sum Up: A full range that appeals to everyone from fuel misers to speed demons.

Audi Q5/SQ5

Base Engine

2.0L/220-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4

Opt Engine

3.0L/272-354-hp/295-346-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6; 2.0L turbo I-4 + elec, 245 hp

Drivetrain

Front engine, AWD, 8A

Towing

4,400 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

17-24/26-30 mpg

0-60 mph

4.4-7.0 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 4 stars; IIHS: TSP+

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

52%

* Estimated

Audi Q7 (2017)

Base Price: $55,750

Body Type: SUV

All-New: Lighter than its predecessor, the Audi Q7 returns with a new 252-hp turbo-four and a roomier, more luxurious interior. New features include an updated MMI infotainment system with a pop-up touchscreen, head-up display, and a host of safety aids, including traffic jam and turning assists. A plug-in hybrid will eventually be offered alongside the turbo-four and supercharged V-6.

Look For: The Bentley Bentayga SUV to slot in way above the Q7 as the VW Group’s flagship SUV.

Sum Up: Audi’s largest SUV is smarter, lighter, and more fuel-efficient than ever.

Audi Q7 (2017)

Base Engine

2.0L/252-hp/273-lb-ft turbo I-4*

Opt Engine

3.0L/333-hp/325-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6*

Drivetrain

Front engine, AWD, 8A

Towing

6,600 lb*

EPA Econ City/Hwy

18-20/24-27 mpg*

0-60 mph

6.1-7.0 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

51%

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

* Estimated

2016 BMW X1

Base Price: $35,795

Body Type: SUV

All-New: The X1 makes AWD standard and moves to a new platform shared with Mini. The styling has been updated, making the X1 look more like the X5 instead of just a tall hatchback. The turbo-four is part of BMW’s new engine family, and despite the front-wheel-drive roots, the AWD system can send 100 percent of the power to the rear wheels at a moment’s notice.

Avoid: Waiting for the return of the last-gen’s xDrive35i model; instead, a turbodiesel four-cylinder model might be in the cards in a few years.

Sum Up: The littlest BMW SUV now looks the part.

BMW X1

Base Engine

2.0L/228-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, AWD, 8A

Towing

N/A

EPA Econ City/Hwy

22/32 mpg

0-60 mph

6.3 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

52%

* Estimated

2016 BMW X3

Base Price: $39,595-$47,345

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: After a major refresh last year, the X3 only sees small changes, gaining enhanced USB and Bluetooth standard on all models and reducing prices for certain options while changing availability of others for 2016. The premium Harman Kardon sound system is now standard on the xDrive35i model. The entry-level engine is still the 2.0-liter, turbo I-4 that’s available with rear- or all-wheel drive.

Cool Fact: The X3 has all of the modern tech gizmos, including a foot-wave-activated power rear liftgate.

Sum Up: Jack of all trades, master of most.

BMW X3

Base Engine

2.0L/240-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4

Opt Engine

2.0L/181-hp/280-lb-ft t’diesel I-4; 3.0L/300-hp/300-lb-ft turbo I-6

Drivetrain

Front engine, RWD/AWD, 8A

Towing

3,500 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

19-27/27-34 mpg

0-60 mph

5.3-7.5 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

51%

* Estimated

2016 BMW X4

Base Price: $45,895-$50,245

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: All-new last year, the X4 adds enhanced USB and Bluetooth as standard and sees a price reduction for the Driver Assistance Plus and Technology packages, which are now $1,700 and $2,750, respectively. Unlike the X3 it’s based on, the AWD X4 doesn’t get a diesel engine. Instead, power options include a 2.0-liter, turbo I-4 and a more powerful 3.0-liter, turbo I-6.

Best Buy: The xDrive28i comes with the same style of the xDrive35i model for those who couldn’t care less about 0-60 times.

Sum Up: Only the rear-seat passengers have to sacrifice for style.

BMW X4

Base Engine

2.0L/240-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4

Opt Engine

3.0L/300-hp/300-lb-ft turbo I-6

Drivetrain

Front engine, AWD, 8A

Towing

3,500 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

19-20/27-28 mpg

0-60 mph

5.2-6.3 sec

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

50%

* Estimated

2016 BMW X5/xDrive40e PHEV/M

Base Price: $54,895-$99,795

Body Type: SUV

Major: The new X5 xDrive40e is BMW’s first plug-in hybrid SUV. The PHEV pairs a 2.0-liter, turbo I-4 with an electric motor and the xDrive AWD system. BMW estimates the xDrive40e will travel up to 13 miles on electricity alone and expects an EPA rating of 55 mpg-e. The hybrid system will be more performance-oriented with the added bonus to fuel economy instead of sapping fun in the name of efficiency. Although most X5s have AWD, a RWD sDrive35i lowers the base price.

Driver’s Choice: The X5 M is still gloriously excessive

Sum Up: BMW’s best-selling SUV offers more options than ever.

BMW X5/xDrive40e PHEV/M

Base Engine

3.0L/300-hp/300-lb-ft turbo I-6

Opt Engine

3.0L/255-hp/413-lb-ft t’diesel I-6; 2.0L turbo I-4 + elec, 308 hp; 4.4L/445-567-hp/480-553-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8

Drivetrain

Front engine, RWD/AWD, 8A

Towing

6,000 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

14-24/19-31 mpg; 55 mpg-e*

0-60 mph

4.0-6.5 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

51%

* Estimated

2016 BMW X6/M

Base Price: $60,795-$103,195

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: After the X6 received updates for 2015, this is a quiet year for BMW’s larger coupelike SUV. Last year also marked the arrival of a more powerful X6 M, the least quiet iteration of the X6. The M variant turns up the boost for 567 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque and exists merely because it can. All X6 trims now get enhanced USB and Bluetooth standard, and prices for packages and some individual features have been revised.

Cool Fact: The X6 M is just as good on a racetrack as the rest of the M lineup.

Sum Up: For when the X5 isn’t stylish enough and the X4 is too small.

BMW X6/M

Base Engine

3.0L/300-hp/300-lb-ft turbo I-6

Opt Engine

4.4L/445-567-hp/480-553-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8

Drivetrain

Front engine, RWD/AWD, 8A

Towing

6,000 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

14-19/19-27 mpg

0-60 mph

4.0-5.8 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

53%

* Estimated

2016 Buick Enclave

Base Price: $39,990-$46,585

Body Type: SUV

Minor: A special edition called the Tuscan Edition comes with 20-inch chrome wheels with bronze accents, a bronze-clad waterfall grille, and a choice of three exterior colors. All Enclaves now get standard 19-inch alloy wheels and three new exterior color options, and 19-inch chrome wheels are also an option. 4G LTE connectivity is available for a monthly fee after the three-month/3-GB trial period ends.

Cool Fact: The Enclave is mechanically related to the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia.

Sum Up: The best of the GM three-row crossover trifecta.

Buick Enclave

Base Engine

3.6L/288-hp/270-lb-ft V-6

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD/AWD, 6A

Towing

4,500 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

16-17/22-24 mpg

0-60 mph

8.2-8.5 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

46%

* Estimated

2016 Buick Encore

Base Price: $25,500-$27,000*

Body Type: SUV

Major: Buick introduces the Encore Sport Touring (pictured), a more spirited take on the comfortable subcompact. The Sport Touring’s turbo 1.4-liter is part of GM’s new engine family, and in addition to an estimated 15 hp and 29 lb-ft of torque gain, the powerband is improved for urban driving. The Sport Touring will also add a rear spoiler and unique 18-inch aluminum wheels. Also added are three new exterior colors and revised, optional 18-inch “Ultra-Bright” alloy wheels

Cool Fact: The Encore is one of Buick’s best-selling models.

Sum Up: Buick’s premium small crossover continues to make a name for itself.

Buick Encore

Base Engine

1.4L/138-hp/148-lb-ft turbo I-4

Opt Engine

1.4L/153-hp*/177-lb-ft* turbo I-4

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD/AWD, 6A

Towing

N/A

EPA Econ City/Hwy

23-27/30-35 mpg*

0-60 mph

9.0-10.1 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars; IIHS: TSP

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

44%

* Estimated

2016 Buick Envision

Base Price: $32,500*

Body Type: SUV

All-New: The Buick Envision is new to the U.S. market, but the Chinese-made two-row crossover neatly fills the wide space between the small Encore and the big three-row Enclave crossover. Built on the same platform underpinning the Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, and Cadillac SRX (and 2017 XT5), the Envision will be powered by a turbo-four and paired to a new all-wheel-drive system. Nineteen-inch wheels, Lane Keep Assist, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel will be standard, with optional features to include an automatic parking assist system, a 360-degree multi-camera system, and a panoramic moonroof.

Cool Fact: Before the Envision even hits U.S. shores, crossovers comprise 60 percent of all Buick sales.

Sum Up: Buick’s crossover momentum is bound to continue with the right-sized Envision.

Buick Envision

Base Engine

2.0L/252-hp*/260-lb-ft* turbo I-4

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, AWD, 6A

Towing

1,500 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

18/26 mpg*

0-60 mph

6.8 sec*

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

* Estimated

2016 Cadillac Escalade/ESV

Base Price: $74,000-$93,500*

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: An updated CUE infotainment system now comes with improved navigation functionality and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Lane keeping assist has been added to the Escalade’s list of available safety and driver assistance systems. GM’s Magnetic Ride Control system remains standard and helps the Escalade stay planted on the road while maintaining excellent ride comfort.

Cool Fact: The Escalade’s eight-speed automatic transmission is shared with performance cars such as the CTS-V and ATS-V.

Sum Up: The American juggernaut of luxury SUVs.

Cadillac Escalade/ESV

Base Engine

6.2L/420-hp/460-lb-ft V-8

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, RWD/4WD, 8A

Towing

8,300 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

14-15/20-21 mpg

0-60 mph

5.9-6.2 sec

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

49%

2016 Cadillac SRX

Base Price: $38,600-$47,130

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: The Cadillac SRX isn’t projected to get any major changes before an updated model with revised styling and a new name—XT5—makes its debut for the 2017 model year. Regardless of what you call it, Cadillac’s midsize five-passenger crossover is by far its best-selling vehicle. Expect Apple CarPlay and Android Auto infotainment connectivity and standard 4G LTE connectivity via OnStar with a monthly fee after the three-month/3-GB trial period ends.

Look For: Much bolder front styling on the face-lifted model, plus a revised interior.

Sum Up: A competitive entry that’s about to be renamed.

Cadillac SRX

Base Engine

3.6L/308-hp/265-lb-ft V-6

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD/AWD, 6A

Towing

3,500 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

16-17/23-24 mpg

0-60 mph

6.6-6.8 sec

Basic Warranty

4 yrs/50,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

47%

2016 Chevrolet City Express

Base Price: $22,950

Body Type: Van

Unchanged: The City Express, a rebadged Nissan NV200 cargo van, is a fuel-efficient alternative for buyers needing a commercial van but not the capability of the body-on-frame full-size Express. With 122.7 cubic feet of cargo volume and up to 1,500 pounds of payload capacity, the City Express is a reasonable alternative for businesses that don’t want the larger footprint of the stoic old Express.

Best Buy: Depending on local incentives, the Chevrolet might be cheaper than the nearly identical Nissan.

Sum Up: And it’s Nissan with the assist! Chevrolet scores and stays in the small van game.

Chevrolet City Express

Base Engine

2.0L/131-hp/139-lb-ft I-4

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD, CVT

Towing

N/A

EPA Econ City/Hwy

24/26 mpg

0-60 mph

10.1 sec*

Basic Warranty

3 yrs/36,000 miles

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

46%

* Estimated

2016 Chevrolet Colorado

Base Price: $20,995-$39,990

Body Type: Pickup

Major: The Colorado impressed us so much that we named it the 2015 and 2016 Motor Trend Truck of the Year. The right-size pickup is smaller than the Silverado and feels noticeably nimbler. A 2.8-liter, Duramax turbodiesel inline-four arrives later in 2016. Apple CarPlay connectivity is now available, and the LT and Z71 trims get an enhanced multicolor gauge cluster display.

Cool Fact: With a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert, the Colorado is as technologically savvy as it is capable.

Sum Up: Chevrolet has changed the game.

Chevrolet Colorado

Base Engine

2.5L/200-hp/191-lb-ft I-4

Opt Engine

3.6L/305-hp/269-lb-ft V-6; 2.8L/181-hp/369-lb-ft t’diesel I-4

Drivetrain

Front engine, RWD/4WD, 6M/6A

Towing

3,500-7,700 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

17-22/24-31 mpg

0-60 mph

7.4-9.3 sec

Basic Warranty

3 yrs/36,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 4 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

57%

* Estimated

2016 Chevrolet Equinox

Base Price: $23,495-$35,725

Body Type: SUV

Major: Exterior styling tweaks include a revised front fascia, new wheel designs, and chrome exhausts on V-6 models. Projector headlights, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a rearview camera are now standard. New safety aids include blind-spot warning and rear cross traffic alert. Saddle Up is a newly available interior color, and the Equinox now offers a tablet holder.

Cool Fact: Aside from the mechanically related GMC Terrain, the Equinox is the only crossover in its class with an available engine producing more than 300 hp.

Sum Up: Still ready to take on the competition.

Chevrolet Equinox

Base Engine

2.4L/182-hp/172-lb-ft I-4

Opt Engine

3.6L/301-hp/272-lb-ft V-6

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD/AWD, 6A

Towing

1,500-3,500 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

16-22/23-32 mpg

0-60 mph

6.8-9.6 sec*

Basic Warranty

3 yrs/36,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 4 stars; IIHS: TSP

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

50%

* Estimated

2016 Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana

Base Price: $31,590-$51,090

Body Type: Van

Unchanged: Standard equipment now includes six D-ring tie-downs on cargo models. Single-pane side-view mirrors and OnStar with 4G LTE Wi-Fi are available, as are a 220-amp alternator and aux battery system for gas models. The availability of a turbodiesel V-8 and its 10,000-lb tow capacity means the vans can serve a subset of the full-size commercial van segment that no competitor can currently match.

Best Buy: Either if a van with well-known ownership costs is more important than one with more innovation.

Sum Up: GM plays it safe.

Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana

Base Engine

4.8L/285-hp/295-lb-ft V-8

Opt Engine

6.0L/342-hp/373-lb-ft V-8; 6.6L/260-hp/525-lb-ft t’diesel V-8

Drivetrain

Front engine, RWD, 6A

Towing

7,400-10,000 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

11/16-17 mpg; Not Rated (6.6L)

0-60 mph

7.5-9.5 sec*

Basic Warranty

3 yrs/36,000 miles

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

49%

* Estimated

2016 Chevrolet Silverado

Base Price: $28,090-$54,310

Body Type: Pickup

Major: The Silverado brings the excellent eight-speed automatic found on the 6.2-liter V-8 to some models with the smaller 5.3-liter V-8. Other trims with that engine and all trucks with the entry-level V-6 carry over the old six-speed automatic. A new front fascia with a sculpted hood and horizontal body-color elements adds a more Colorado-like front end.

Cool Fact: The latest MyLink will also support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, bringing the Silverado to the front of the pack in connectivity.

Sum Up: Careful changes in high-impact areas make a capable truck even better.

Chevrolet Silverado

Base Engine

4.3L/285-hp/305-lb-ft V-6

Opt Engine

5.3L/355-hp/383-lb-ft V-8; 6.2L/420-hp/460-lb-ft V-8

Drivetrain

Front engine, RWD/4WD, 6A/8A

Towing

7,600-12,000 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

15-18/21-24 mpg

0-60 mph

6.0-7.4 sec*

Basic Warranty

3 yrs/36,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

56%

* Estimated

2016 Chevrolet Silverado HD

Base Price: $34,150-$63,555

Body Type: Pickup

Unchanged: Last year, Chevrolet gave the Silverado HD the looks to match its capability and brought it in line with the smaller Silverado in the styling department. Despite the constant one-upmanship in the segment, Chevrolet doesn’t seem concerned and is happy with “just” 765 lb-ft of torque with the available turbodiesel V-8. The Silverado HD is a less powerful truck than the competition, but it does well what it aims to do.

Cool Fact: The High Country model brings Denali-like refinement with Chevrolet styling.

Sum Up: For when you just need to get the job done and don’t care about the biggest number.

Chevrolet Silverado HD

Base Engine

6.0L/360-hp/380-lb-ft V-8

Opt Engine

6.6L/397-hp/765-lb-ft t’diesel V-8

Drivetrain

Front engine, RWD/4WD, 6A

Towing

14,800-23,200 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

Not Rated

0-60 mph

7.0-8.3 sec*

Basic Warranty

3 yrs/36,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 3-4 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

57%

* Estimated

2016 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban

Base Price: $48,000-$68,000*

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: The Tahoe and Suburban see a few updates, with a newly available head-up display for the LTZ trim and the base LS gaining a standard 8-inch infotainment system with 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity, Apple CarPlay support, and an Enhanced Driver Alert package for 2016. The new package includes power-adjustable pedals, IntelliBeam high-beam assist, lane keeping assistance, a forward collision alert, and the Safety Alert Seat.

Best Buy: If you plan to frequently haul full loads of people and stuff, spring for the Suburban.

Sum Up: The classic recipe, now with more technology and efficiency.

Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban

Base Engine

5.3L/355-hp/383-lb-ft V-8

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, RWD/4WD, 6A

Towing

8,300-8,600 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

15-16/22-23 mpg

0-60 mph

6.7-7.3 sec

Basic Warranty

3 yrs/36,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 4 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

54%

2016 Chevrolet Traverse

Base Price: $32,100-$45,040

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: For 2016 the Traverse gains 4G LTE connectivity with a Wi-Fi hot spot, new 20-inch aluminum wheel designs in painted or machined finishes, a new Leather and Driver Confidence package for LT trims, and two new exterior colors: Iridescent Pearl and Mosaic Black Metallic. The new package includes leather seating, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert.

Best Buy: If you need to haul seven or eight people, the Traverse makes more financial sense than the Tahoe.

Sum Up: Vanilla design but with lots of room in the third row.

Chevrolet Traverse

Base Engine

3.6L/281-288-hp/266-270-lb-ft V-6

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD/AWD, 6A

Towing

5,200 lb

EPA Econ City/Hwy

16-17/23-24 mpg

0-60 mph

7.5-8.0 sec*

Basic Warranty

3 yrs/36,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

46%

* Estimated

2016 Chevrolet Trax

Base Price: $21,195-$27,625

Body Type: SUV

Unchanged: The Trax combines a compact footprint, plenty of cargo capacity, and the all-weather capability endowed by available AWD. The 1.4-liter, turbo inline-four delivers adequate power but still provides reasonable fuel economy. The Trax also features a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot and Siri Eyes Free functionality. Four new exterior colors are added for 2016: Crimson Metallic, Sable Metallic, Cyber Gray Metallic, and Champagne Silver Metallic.

Avoid: The Trax if you’re a tall driver and are always shuttling your tall friends around.

Sum Up: A subcompact with traction options.

Chevrolet Trax

Base Engine

1.4L/138-hp/148-lb-ft turbo I-4

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD/AWD, 6A

Towing

N/A

EPA Econ City/Hwy

24-26/31-34 mpg

0-60 mph

9.0-10.1 sec

Basic Warranty

3 yrs/36,000 miles

Safety

NHTSA: 5 stars

IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value

44%

2016 Chrysler Town & Country

Base Price: $30,990-$41,290

Body Type: Minivan

Minor: As Chrysler turns 90, the Town & Country celebrates with a commemorative Anniversary Edition that takes a midlevel Touring-L trim and adds a power sunroof, first- and second-row seat warmers, a heated steering wheel, keyless entry and ignition, bright door handles, and Anniversary Edition logos. The T&C has long been one of the top three in the segment, and despite the dated gauges and infotainment screen, it shows in details such as the Stow ’n Go seating.

Look For: The next-generation T&C to debut before long.

Sum Up: The higher-end American Contender.

Chrysler Town & Country

Base Engine

3.6L/283-hp/260-lb-ft V-6

Opt Engine

None

Drivetrain

Front engine, FWD, 6A

Seats/Foldaway

7/2nd-3rd row

EPA Econ City/Hwy

17/25 mpg<

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