As America’s public fast-charging network continues to grow despite the broader cooling of electric vehicle sales, Uber is taking up a more active role in deciding where new charging stations should be built and how efficiently they’re managed.
The ride-hailing giant is amid a tectonic shift, brokering dozens of deals worldwide to bring autonomous vehicles to its platform. The vast majority of these partnerships involve modern EVs, which will need consistent and reliable spaces to charge.
To address that, Uber is now aiding the build-out of new fast-charging stations to support the incoming wave of robotaxis on its platform and also providing more plug-in options to its human drivers, who are increasingly going electric.
“One of Uber’s superpowers is the fact that we have just so much data,” Andrew Cornelia, Uber’s global head of electrification and sustainability, told me in an interview at the BloombergNEF Summit in New York City. “We’re using that data to essentially tell us where charging needs to be.”
Photo by: Hyundai
Armed with vast amounts of real-world trip data, the company says it could help solve one of the industry’s most persistent problems, which is matching charging supply with real-time demand from drivers who can’t afford to waste time waiting around.
In February, Uber announced a $100 million investment in building public fast-charging stations. It will partner with networks including EVgo in the U.S. and Ionity in Europe to build charging stations in high-traffic regions.
Uber is also providing these networks with utilization guarantees. Fast-charging stations require millions in upfront capital to build and only make sense financially if utilization rates are consistently high.
Cornelia is confident that demand for these chargers will be high. “Charging now tops vehicle cost in terms of concerns for Uber drivers,” he said. “We actually have a fairly high conviction and confidence that if you build it, they will come.”
Photo by: EVgo
New York City has among the most severe examples of charging shortages for Uber drivers. Drivers were incentivized to go electric due to new Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) rules in 2023, but got little charging support in return.
More charging stations have come online in the city ever since, but congestion hasn’t improved meaningfully at many locations. There aren’t enough stations to support the tens of thousands of rideshare drivers who have since opted to drive EVs.
Uber is trying to alleviate some of these concerns with a new recommendation technology within its app, showing drivers nearby EV chargers and locations with the shortest queues.
But Uber’s ‘superpower’ is being stress tested regardless by rivals and investors alike. Its stock is down nearly 10% this year as of writing. Rival Waymo is a partner in Austin and Atlanta, but also a huge competitor in nine other cities where it serves riders on its own app.
Photo by: Waymo
And the threat from Tesla is also looming—Elon Musk’s company builds its own robotaxis, which will charge on its own hardware and serve riders through its own app. This vertical integration brings inherent advantages, giving Tesla tighter control over its software, hardware, and operations.
Uber’s horizontal approach gives it less direct influence over parts of its business. But it also enables its massive scale, which is its own advantage. Only time will tell whether the bet on AVs will pencil out. The bet on charging, on the other hand, seems less risky in comparison.
Drivers are already going electric, and having more chargers would address their needs more immediately. Chargers themselves are a proven technology, and they’re getting better every day. Newer stations are now higher-powered and have better reliability. More of them are popping up in locations with amenities like convenience stores, bathrooms, and WiFi.
“The future of mobility is really electric, autonomous, and digitally enabled,” Cornelia said. “Public charging is a concern, and that’s why we’re spending so much time on it.”
The 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari, once owned by Jamiroquai frontman Jay Kay, has been sold at RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction for approximately $5.9 million.
Jay Kay’s LaFerrari is one of the most recognisable of all the 499 examples sold, thanks to its custom colour. It came in a vibrant Signal Green shade straight from the factory. It has a black roof and alloy wheels finished in silver, while the brake calipers are yellow.
The interior has black upholstery with green accents. Adding a bit of personal touch, ‘Jamiroquai’ is etched on the base of the steering wheel. The car also comes with a matching luggage set and a ton of optional carbon fibre parts.
Jay Kay sold his LaFerrari in April 2019. At the time, it had just over 1864 miles on it. It was briefly offered for sale by London’s premier supercar dealership, Joe Macari. At the time of cataloguing for the Monaco auction, it had around 7480 miles on the odometer.
Electric vehicles tend to perform very well in crash-safety tests, due to how their bodies are structured. Heavy batteries help create a lower center of gravity, while the absence of an engine allows designers more space to create effective crumple zones. The Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T pickups are two of the biggest EVs around, so their sheer size can also improve crash safety. But how do they compare to each other? And how do they perform when it comes to crash prevention? To answer those questions, we’ve compared the latest safety ratings for both pickups from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Let’s see which one is safest.
Related: Ford F-150 Vs. Chevy Silverado 1500 Vs. Ram 1500: Which Pickup Is The Safest?
Crashworthiness: Cybertruck Takes The Lead
The IIHS runs three core crashworthiness tests: small overlap front, moderate overlap front, and side. These tests collectively evaluate how a vehicle performs in different scenarios, whether it’s an offset crash with another car or hitting something with the front corner. Each test is rated as Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor. Here’s how the two vehicles compared.
Tesla Cybertruck
Rivian R1T
Small Overlap Front
Good
Good
Moderate Overlap Front
Good
Acceptable
Side
Good
Good
While there are no red flags for either pickup, the Cybertruck performed better in the moderate overlap front test, where many other full-size pickups tend to struggle. In this particular evaluation, the Tesla’s rear passenger restraints and dummy kinetics received a Good rating, while the Rivian’s rating was Marginal. That brought down the Rivian’s overall score and prevented it from attaining a Top Safety Pick+ award. The Cybertruck achieved this and is the only tested full-size pickup to do so.
Both pickups generally performed well in crash tests.
Related: Tesla Cybertruck Vs. Ford F-150 Lightning Safety Ratings—Which Truck Is Safer?
Crash Prevention: More Good News For Tesla
Rivian R1T crash test
IIHS/YouTube
In this category, the IIHS assesses a vehicle’s ability to avoid a crash with another vehicle or a pedestrian. Headlights are also tested for effectiveness.
Tesla Cybertruck
Rivian R1T
Headlights
Good
Acceptable
Front Crash Prevention (vehicle-to-vehicle)
Good
Acceptable
Front Crash Prevention (pedestrian)
Good
Good
Once again, the Cybertruck achieved only Good ratings—it easily lives up to Tesla’s generally excellent reputation for safety. The Rivian’s headlights and vehicle-to-vehicle crash-prevention system were rated as Acceptable. On curves, the Cybertruck’s high beams were more effective than the Rivian’s. In vehicle-to-vehicle collision avoidance, the Cybertruck warned the driver of a possible collision more effectively than the Rivian did.
As in the crashworthiness category, the Rivian isn’t bad at all, but there are a few gaps where its performance could be perfected.
Final Verdict: Tesla Builds The Safest Pickup
2026 Tesla Cybertruck
Tesla
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original article
Things may change in the future, but 2026 IIHS ratings show that the Tesla is the only pickup of any size to achieve the organization’s Top Safety Pick+ award. Pickup safety has improved in recent years, but still lags behind other body styles of vehicle, where Top Safety Pick+ awards are more commonly earned. The Cybertruck beats its R1T rival in these tests, although the Rivian can’t be described as unsafe—it still held up well in crash tests and put in a solid performance for crash prevention.
You can save time and money with DIY car cleaning hacks using products found in most households. These everyday items can help produce excellent results when you want to rejuvenate your car’s look and smell. Check out the best car-cleaning kits for auto detailing products that offer additional cleaning power.
If you’re new to car detailing, don’t have your preferred car-care product, or just want to try something new, add these household items to your cleaning toolkit. With a list of 20 household products and more than 40 DIY car-cleaning hacks, there is no shortage of ways to clean a car’s interior and exterior finish. Always remember that a deep cleaning can improve the value of a used car by hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Cleaning Disclaimer: Always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous location when trying a new product. The surfaces of some vehicles may respond differently to a cleaning product than others, and it’s best to take precautions to avoid a costly mistake. Remember that luxury and older vehicles often have more delicate surfaces, so use extra caution when cleaning those cars.
Toothpaste comes in various formulations, and those designed to whiten teeth or fight tartar buildup are also effective in some aspects of automobile cleaning. The abrasiveness of toothpaste is measured using relative dentin abrasivity. Higher RDA toothpaste will offer better and faster results for:
Headlight restoration: The abrasives in toothpaste can remove light-to-moderate oxidation from headlight lenses. Using the most abrasive toothpaste formulation when restoring faded headlights will provide the most effective results. Apply the toothpaste to a microfiber towel and wipe the headlights in a circular motion. Using a toothbrush along with a microfiber towel increases the restoring power. Be sure to apply a layer of wax, sealant, or coating to the headlights to help prevent future UV damage. Heavily damaged headlights that are pitted from road debris will require sanding to restore them fully. If you need a professional, check out auto repair centers to get help.
Paint scratch removal: Toothpaste abrasiveness varies. Use light- or medium-abrasive toothpaste to remove paint scratches. Apply toothpaste to a microfiber towel and wipe the paint in a gentle circular motion. Be careful not to use too much pressure; you can easily introduce additional paint defects to the car’s paint. The only time you should wipe car paint in a circular motion is when removing scratches. Otherwise, the action may create undesirable swirl marks. Applying a layer of wax, sealant, or coating to the paint will help protect it from contamination.
Adhesive removal: Isopropyl alcohol can remove adhesive left behind after removing a sticker or badge from a car. Using 91% alcohol will speed up the process and may reduce the amount of product needed. Apply isopropyl alcohol to a microfiber towel and wipe away the adhesive from paint or glass.
Tree sap removal: Tree sap that has been baking in the sun for a while will be more difficult to remove than fresh tree sap. Wetting a microfiber towel with isopropyl alcohol and placing it over the tree sap will help loosen it for easier removal. Using 91% alcohol is the best choice for removing solidified tree sap from a car’s surfaces.
Ink removal: Removing pen ink from various surfaces can be achieved using isopropyl alcohol. Be careful when removing ink from a headliner, as oversaturation can compromise the adhesive and cause the fabric to sag. After removing ink from leather seats, apply a leather protectant to help shield them from future mishaps.
Glass cleaning: Diluting isopropyl alcohol with distilled or reverse-osmosis water creates an affordable and effective glass cleaner. Dilute 91% alcohol with water at a 4-to-1 ratio and 70% alcohol with water at a 3-to-1 ratio. A window cleaner made from approximately 20% alcohol will provide plenty of cleaning power and prevent it from evaporating too quickly.
Wiper blade cleaning: Removing dirt and debris that accumulate on wiper blades can help prevent glass scratches. If the windshield wipers are chattering due to friction, the cause might be dirty wiper blades. In addition to cleaning grime from the wipers, isopropyl alcohol will help remove the outermost layer of rubber that has stiffened due to exposure to the elements.
Is Isopropyl Alcohol Safe for Car Paint? Diluting isopropyl alcohol with distilled or reverse osmosis water to around 20% is commonly used to remove compounding and polishing oils when performing paint correction. Isopropyl alcohol at full strength isn’t recommended for car paint and should only be used sparingly for adhesive removal.
Baking soda, a household staple for generations, is an effective deodorizer and stain remover. Some toothpaste contains baking soda because of the stain-removing powers that sodium bicarbonate provides. Combining baking soda with vinegar is a great way to supercharge your cleaning solution, but it must be used immediately due to its volatility.
Stain removal: Combining baking soda with vinegar creates a powerful cleaning solution that removes various stains. Fill a spray bottle with vinegar and presoak the stain before applying baking soda. Then spray more vinegar on the stain and agitate with a nylon brush. Use the DIY hot-water extractor hack to minimize the lingering odor of vinegar and achieve an even deeper clean.
Odor removal: Sprinkling baking soda directly on the carpet or cloth upholstery can help eliminate foul odors. Allow the baking soda to sit for a minimum of 15 minutes. Its cleaning power increases the longer it’s left on the surface. After waiting for the desired period, remove the baking soda with a vacuum to reveal a fresher-smelling interior. You can also place the baking soda in a bowl to help eliminate less pungent odors or as part of a preventative car-cleaning routine. Make your own DIY car air freshener by using a 4-ounce canning jar with a wide base and filling it two-thirds full of baking soda. Add drops of your favorite essential oil, based on desired intensity, and shake the jar to distribute the oil for a pleasant aroma.
Liquid dish soap is a powerful degreaser that’s also environmentally friendly. It’s so effective at safely cleaning various surfaces that it’s used to clean animals affected by oil spills. Don’t confuse dish soap with dishwasher detergent because they have different compositions and are designed to work under different conditions. Always apply a new layer of wax or sealant to the paint, as dish soap will remove the paint’s protection along with any contamination.
DIY car wash: Sometimes, cars must be washed with more aggressive chemicals to remove contamination or strip off previously applied protection such as waxes and sealants. Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, which means it will remove most paint or glass protection products previously applied. Mixing an ounce of dish soap per gallon of water creates a powerful DIY car wash that can remove most contamination from the paint or glass.
Bug removal: Mixing an ounce of dish soap per gallon of water will provide enough strength to remove a moderate accumulation of bugs. If bugs have been baking in the hot sun, consider increasing the quantity of dish soap used per gallon to 1.5 to 2 ounces. Soak cheesecloth in the dish soap mixture to help improve the cleaning power without damaging the paint.
Stain removal: There’s a good chance your car’s interior was stained by food or drink. As dish soap was designed to remove food from dishes, it can do the same for your car. Add 1.5 teaspoons (0.25 ounce) per quart of water to create a gentle but effective stain remover. Use a spray bottle to apply the solution to the stain and agitate with a nylon bristle brush. Use a microfiber towel to blot the area, or try the DIY hot-water extractor hack to help with drying if one is available.
Because it’s milder than dish soap, baby soap (and pet shampoo) won’t remove the products that protect the paint from damage. Baby shampoo has good lubricity and mild cleaning power, making it a good choice for washing a well-maintained car.
Car wash: Baby soap is gentler than liquid dish soap and won’t strip paint protection if wax or sealant is applied. Mixing an ounce of baby soap or pet shampoo per gallon of water produces a slippery solution that’s sometimes used to install paint protection film..
White vinegar is a highly versatile product used for various types of cleaning. Though vinegar can be used alone as an effective cleaner for most areas of a car, it can also be combined with baking soda for additional cleaning power when removing stubborn stains. Be sure to use the vinegar and baking soda solution immediately before the products can neutralize each other. Always vacuum the carpet and fabric upholstery to remove loose dirt and debris before applying a stain remover.
Stain removal: You can remove carpet and fabric upholstery stains by mixing white vinegar with hot water at a 1-to-5 ratio. Fill a spray bottle with the vinegar solution and apply until the fabric is damp. Scrub the material using a nylon bristle brush to help remove the stain and give it a general cleaning. Tough stains may require additional vinegar applications and elbow grease when it comes time to agitate the solution. Blot the stains up using a towel, or try the DIY hot-water extractor hack to suck them out of the fabric fibers and accelerate the drying time.
Salt stain removal: Salt stains on the carpet can cause permanent damage if the accumulation is severe enough. Mixing one part vinegar with five parts hot water in a spray bottle can help clean the saltiest carpets. Spray the salt stains and agitate with a nylon bristle brush after a few minutes of dwell time. Adding a few drops of essential oil or lemon juice to the vinegar mixture can help take the edge off the strong smell.
Water spot removal: White vinegar diluted 2-to-1 with distilled or reverse osmosis water is a great way to remove hard water spots from car paint. Fill a bucket with the vinegar solution and wash the car using a microfiber towel or wash mitt. If the water spots aren’t removed using vinegar diluted 2-to-1, it’s time to add more vinegar to the equation.
Glass cleaning: Diluting white vinegar with distilled or reverse osmosis water at a 2-to-1 ratio will create an eco-friendly and cost-effective window cleaner. Windows with water spots may need a more potent vinegar mixture and additional dwell time to clean.
Metal polishing: Mixing white vinegar with equal parts water in a spray bottle can help clean stainless steel exhaust tips and bumpers. Spray the vinegar until the metal is wet and the microfiber towel is damp. Fine-grade steel wool can be used instead of a microfiber towel if the exhaust tips are very dirty or corroded.
Microfiber towel cleaning: Some laundry detergents contain dye that can leave residue on microfiber towels and cause streaking on the car’s paint and glass. White vinegar is a great DIY laundry detergent that won’t leave behind residue on microfiber towels.
EXPERT TIP: Choose dual-weave, 300-400 GSM microfiber towels for automotive use. Lighter weaves can trap grit, potentially causing microswirls on surfaces. Wash dedicated drying towels separately from other microfiber towels used for car wax or paint sealant removal. Towels should be washed with warm water and dried on low heat. Never use fabric softener when washing or drying microfiber towels.
Is White Vinegar Safe for Car Paint?
White vinegar is a safe and effective way to remove water spots from car paint. After washing a car with white vinegar, it is essential to apply a layer of wax or sealant to help prevent water spots in the future.
Melamine sponges, commonly known as “Magic Erasers,” are highly effective and only need water to clean the dirtiest surfaces. Except for glass cleaning, you should use melamine sponges sparingly on a vehicle’s interior and exterior surfaces. Melamine sponges are abrasive and shouldn’t be used to wash a car because they will dull the paint and require a paint correction to restore the shine.
Ink removal: Wet the melamine sponge with water and gently scrub the ink from the surface. If the ink isn’t coming off easily or the material can’t withstand further scrubbing, use isopropyl alcohol to increase the cleaning power. Be sure to reapply protectant to the leather after deep cleaning to help keep it looking great and make it easier to clean in the future.
Scuff removal: Paint scuffs differ from scratches because they often involve something transferred onto the paint instead of the paint itself being removed. After cleaning the paint scuff of loose contamination, use a damp melamine sponge with side-to-side movements to remove the paint scuff. If the melamine sponge doesn’t remove the abrasion, add toothpaste to the sponge and continue scrubbing.
Glass cleaning: A microfiber towel can handle most glass cleaning jobs. However, some contamination, like dog drool, needs extra cleaning power. Cleaning glass with a damp melamine sponge will quickly and safely remove slobber from the messiest windows.
EXPERT TIP:Do not use a melamine sponge on glass with aftermarket window tint. Aftermarket tint uses a film, whereas factory tint has color embedded in the glass during manufacturing. Also, avoid any ammonia-based sprays, which can degrade tinted windows and damage touchscreens.
Wheel cleaning: Strong chemicals are best for removing baked-on brake dust that has turned bronze in color. However, carefully using a melamine sponge to deep clean the stained wheels is an effective and affordable alternative. Start by cleaning the wheel faces with a damp melamine sponge before cleaning the typically much dirtier wheel barrels. Cleaning the less dirty and more delicate part of the wheel before moving on to the most contaminated part will help minimize the risk of scratching the finish.
Shower squeegees are great for drying glass. They also have an unintended use: Squeegees can help remove pet hair from a car’s interior. Pulling the squeegee firmly in one direction at a time will yield the best cleaning results. After removing the loose pet hair, squeegee the carpet or upholstery fibers in the opposite direction to remove any remaining strands.
Glass cleaning: Using a shower squeegee to dry glass after cleaning can help save time and keep the windows streak-free and lint-free. Use a shower squeegee with pulling motions and a slight overlap between passes. Work from the top of the glass to the bottom. After each pass, shake excess water from the squeegee blade for the best results. Periodically clean the squeegee blade with a microfiber towel to ensure it is free of debris that could scratch the glass.
Pet hair removal: Shower squeegees can help clean more than just glass. Swiping a shower squeegee over carpet and fabric upholstery can remove pet hair, and it’s gentler on the surface than some of the other DIY pet hair removal techniques. Always vacuum loose pet hair before using a shower squeegee and pull the squeegee in the same direction multiple times to remove additional hair. Alternating squeegee swipe directions will yield the best results, especially with short pet hair embedded deep into the fabric.
What Is the Best Way to Remove Pet Hair From a Car?
Several DIY car cleaning hacks are up to the challenge of removing pet hair from the interior. Shower squeegees, pumice stones, lint rollers, and rubber gloves are great tools for removing pet hair from the carpet and fabric upholstery. Swipe any pet hair removal tool in one direction repeatedly to remove pet hair. For the best results, change the direction of the swipes a few times and vacuum up the loose hair before swiping in a new direction. We advise removing all pet hair before selling your car.
Generally, the hydrogen peroxide you buy at a pharmacy or grocery store has a 3% concentration and is ready to use. Tougher stains may require a higher concentration, but keep in mind that stronger blends of 10% or more can cause fabric bleaching. Always test the material in an inconspicuous spot to see if any such bleaching occurs.
Stain removal: Hydrogen peroxide can remove many stains, but it excels at removing blood. Ready-to-use hydrogen peroxide bought at a store has a safe but effective 3% concentration. When removing minor stains or general cleaning, dilute hydrogen peroxide 1-to-1 with distilled water. Agitate the hydrogen peroxide with a nylon bristle brush, then blot the stains using a microfiber towel. Consider using the DIY hot-water extractor hack for additional stain-removal power to lift more dirt and debris from the fibers.
Odor elimination: Hydrogen peroxide will remove unsightly stains and the foul odors that often accompany them. Dilute hydrogen peroxide with distilled or reverse osmosis water at a 1-to-1 ratio to create an odor eliminator that is safe for most surfaces. Agitate the fabric using a nylon bristle brush to ensure equal coverage of all the fibers.
Steel wool is available in eight different grades:
4 – extra coarse
3 – coarse
2 – medium-coarse
1 – medium
0 – medium-fine
00 – fine
000 – extra fine
0000 – finest
Only use 0000 steel wool when cleaning glass, or it can result in scratches that will be incredibly hard to remove. When polishing metal, start with 0000 steel wool and increase the aggressiveness only as needed. Wear gloves when using steel wool to prevent cuts and embedded metal particles.
Glass cleaning: Generously apply glass cleaner to the windows and gently scrub them with 0000 steel wool. After cleaning the windows, dry them with a squeegee or a microfiber towel. Use isopropyl alcohol or white vinegar to make a DIY glass cleaner.
Metal polishing: Apply metal polish to the stainless steel exhaust tips and rub them with 0000 steel wool. Use a coarser grade of steel wool on metal with corrosion or heavy carbon buildup. One of the best DIY metal polishing hacks combines steel wool and white vinegar, which can remove rust from metal.
Razor blades are great at removing stubborn glass contamination, including tree sap, bug guts, and sticker adhesive. Plastic razor blades can remove adhesive from the paint without damaging it. Use razor blades at a 45-degree angle with plenty of cleaning solution and light pressure. Be sure to scrape in one direction at a time and avoid back-and-forth movements.
Glass cleaning: Glass is harder to scratch than paint and can withstand more aggressive cleaning without causing damage. A metal razor blade can safely remove stubborn stuff from glass, saving time when removing bug guts, tree sap, or paint overspray. Remove loose contamination from the glass before using the razor blade and ensure the edge stays debris-free to prevent scratches.
Adhesive removal: Depending on the surface you’re cleaning, metal or plastic razor blades will be the right choice. Only use metal razor blades to remove adhesive from glass. Use plastic razor blades to remove adhesive from paint or glass. Preheating the glue with a hair dryer before scraping it with a razor blade will make cleaning even easier.
Pumice stones can help remove pet hair from carpet and fabric upholstery. Swipe the pumice stone in one direction. Then, after removing the loosened pet hair, use the pumice stone in the opposite direction to clear away any remaining hair.
Pet hair removal: Always remove as much of the loose pet hair as possible by vacuuming before using a pumice stone. Swipe the pumice stone in one direction to dislodge embedded pet hair and vacuum the freshly loosened hair before going in the opposite direction. Using a pumice stone in multiple directions will yield the best results when removing short pet hair that weaves its way into the fabric.
Ice cubes are an effective and low-cost way to remove gum from a car’s interior. Freezing the gum stiffens it so you can remove it in larger pieces or, if you’re lucky, in one piece. Before freezing the gum, placing the ice cubes inside a plastic bag will help prevent any potential moisture issues as they melt.
Gum removal: Removing gum from any surface of a car’s interior isn’t a good time, and removing it from fabric can be a nightmare. Removing warm gum can be futile, so it’s best to do so when the gum is cold, as it will come off in larger pieces. Any remaining small pieces of gum can be scrubbed with a toothbrush and vacuumed to complete the cleaning.
Cheesecloth has uses outside of the kitchen, too. The loosely-knit cloth can remove baked-on bugs from the car’s bumpers or mirrors, trapping them so they won’t make further contact with the paint. However, using too much pressure or excessive wiping can cause scratches. To avoid that, wipe only in straight-line movements and never use circular motion to prevent swirl marks.
Bug removal: Cheesecloths are great for more than just straining cheese curds; they’re also helpful for removing baked-on bugs from a car’s exterior. After pretreating the bugs with a dish-soap mixture, remove them carefully using cheesecloth. Soak the cheesecloth in diluted dish soap and gently clean using straight-line movements with light to moderate pressure. If the bugs don’t come off easily, reapply the dish soap and allow it to soak longer.
Lint rollers typically remove pet hair from clothing. You can also use them to eliminate stubborn hair from a car’s interior. In addition to removing pet hair, lint rollers also excel at cleaning the seemingly impossible-to-remove glitter.
Pet hair removal: After removing as much loose pet hair as possible with a vacuum, a lint roller can help remove the remaining hair. Rolling the lint roller in multiple directions will help pull the embedded pet hair from the carpet and upholstery. Short pet hairs are typically more difficult to remove since they thread themselves through the fabric.
Glitter removal: Glitter seems to stick around forever, and you may find tiny sparkles years after having it in your car. If there’s a large concentration of glitter in one area, use the vacuum nozzle before using a lint roller to remove the remaining particles.
Hair dryers are a safe and readily available alternative to heat guns. While a hair dryer won’t have the same power as a heat gun, it can still generate plenty of heat to remove stickers from a car’s glass or paint. The hair dryer may take a minute to heat the adhesive, compared to a few seconds with a heat gun.
Adhesive removal: Heating a sticker or badge before removing it from a car will help make the job much easier. The heat softens the adhesive, making it easier to remove the sticker in larger pieces and sometimes in one piece, with a bit of luck. You can then use isopropyl alcohol to remove leftover glue on the paint or glass.
Toothbrushes are excellent at cleaning hard-to-reach areas or adding a little extra cleaning power compared to a microfiber towel. Toothbrushes are available in various bristle stiffness (soft, medium, hard) to determine how much cleaning power the toothbrush has.
Crevice cleaning: Toothbrushes clean hard-to-reach spaces, and you can use them to help clean various parts of a car’s interior and exterior. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush when cleaning delicate surfaces like paint or piano black interior trim.
Headlight restoration: Using a medium- or hard-bristle brush with toothpaste can yield quick and impressive results. Heavily oxidized and pitted lights require sanding, but a bit of elbow grease can improve headlight appearance and safety.
Massage guns, also known as percussive massagers, feature high-speed motors capable of more than 3,000 revolutions per minute. The massage gun’s high RPM helps bring sand to the carpet’s surface for easy vacuuming. Operating the massage gun and vacuum simultaneously will yield the best results.
Sand removal: Always use a vacuum to remove as much sand as possible before using a massage gun. Removing a large portion of the sand before agitating the carpet or fabric upholstery helps prevent sand from scattering to other interior areas.
Compressed air is helpful when cleaning tight spaces between the seats and the center console or eliminating water spots/streaks after a car wash. Whether you’re cleaning a car’s interior or exterior, there will be a few places that always seem to be out of reach of other tools.
Crevice cleaning: Cleaning between the seat rails and the center console is one of the most inaccessible spots of a car’s interior. Vacuum crevice tools help, but you’ll find some contamination requiring an air compressor to dislodge. Compressed air can dislodge and move the remaining contamination to an area the vacuum can reach.
Car drying: Avoid annoying water drips and streaks after washing a car with compressed air. Blowing water out of the grille, mirrors, door jambs, and panel gaps before drying the rest of the paint will eliminate those unsightly water drips and streaks.
Many people have a wet and dry vacuum in their garage. Use this highly versatile piece of equipment as a DIY hot-water extractor. While the household tool doesn’t match the cleaning power of a commercial-grade hot water extractor, it’s strong enough to tackle mild to moderately dirty car interiors.
Hot-water extractor: While a wet and dry vacuum can’t heat and pump water into the fabric, it can suck up hot water instead. Fill a bucket with hot water and dip a nylon bristle brush into the bucket. Scrub the carpet or upholstery with a wet brush to clean the material or flush it with previously applied cleaners such as white vinegar or dish soap.
Another effective cleaning method is to fill a spray bottle with hot water and wet the carpet and upholstery. Spray the hot water onto the fabric and agitate the fibers with a nylon bristle brush before using the wet/dry vacuum.
Bottom Line on DIY Car Cleaning With Household Items
You can achieve professional-level car cleaning results at home with a wide range of household products and creative tools. From tackling stains, odors, and grime with items like toothpaste, baking soda, and vinegar, to removing pet hair and tough adhesives using squeegees, lint rollers, and more, these DIY hacks are both effective and budget-friendly.
Remember that other products and tools can be used for detailing or a do-it-yourself car wash, including this bonus tip: Repurpose the steam cleaner you bought to remove wallpaper and steam clean fabric and vents in your car. A handheld steam cleaner can help remove embedded dirt from mats, seats, and A/C vents. Always test new methods on hidden areas and use gentle techniques to keep surfaces looking their best and preserve your car’s value.
Editor’s Note: We have updated this article since its initial publication. Cynthia Ogu contributed to the report.
The Beijing Auto Show is always full of surprises, but this year, a giant took the stage. XPeng has officially pulled the covers off its newest flagship SUV, the XPeng GX. This big vehicle is designed to be the best of the best for the Chinese company. With a starting price of RMB 399,800, which is about £42,200, it is not a cheap family runaround, but it offers a lot of features that usually cost much more in other electric cars. This six-seater has more computer power than many professional workstations. XPeng wants to prove that its cars can be as luxurious and advanced as the top-shelf offerings from famous luxury brands from Europe.
When you first look at the XPeng GX from a distance, you might think you are seeing a Range Rover. It has a similar boxy, strong look that many luxury buyers love. But the GX is actually longer than the British classic. It measures 207.3 inches from front to back. The wheelbase is a roomy 122.6 inches. But even though it is a giant SUV, it moves through the air very easily. It has a drag coefficient of 0.255 – better than many small, sleek cars. It sits on large 22-inch wheels that help it stand tall and look expensive.
Inside the car, the space is the real star. Most SUVs with three rows of seats feel like a cardboard box in the very back. The XPeng GX uses a layout with two seats in each of the three rows. The doors close themselves softly, so you never have to worry about slamming them. XPeng says this is a car built for families and it isn’t wrong. The trunk is big enough to hold six large suitcases, even when every seat is full. There is a fridge that stays quiet while it keeps your drinks cold. The front passenger seat can even lean back 180 degrees for a nap. If you want some privacy, the glass can dim itself using AI technology.
There are two versions of the new GX available – the first is a pure electric option. This model uses an 800V system that allows for very fast charging. XPeng calls this 5C supercharging. On a full charge, this version can travel 466 miles. It uses two electric motors for all-wheel drive to make sure it has plenty of grip on the road. This makes it one of the long-distance leaders among modern EVs.
The second version is an extended-range EV. This model can go 267 miles using just its battery. It also has a small gas engine that acts like a generator, and when you use both, the total range jumps to 985 miles. That is a serious distance for any vehicle. You could drive for days without needing to stop for fuel or a charge. Like the pure electric version, this one also comes with all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
XPeng calls the GX its first “robotaxi-ready” car – it has the hardware to drive itself in the future. It uses four special AI chips designed by XPeng. These chips are very powerful and can think much faster than a human. To help the car steer, XPeng worked with Bosch to build a steer-by-wire system. This means there is no metal rod connecting the steering wheel to the tires. Instead, the car uses wires and computers to tell the wheels which way to turn. This allows the AI to steer faster and with more precision.
Safety is another area where XPeng is showing off its strengths. The company says the XPeng GX has “aviation-grade” safety – it has backup systems for everything, just like a commercial airplane. If one system for steering or braking fails, there are five more layers of backup to keep you safe. The car can also stop itself automatically if it sees a crash coming. It can do this at speeds up to 93 mph. It even works on ice and snow, which is usually very hard for computers to handle.
But this is not the first time XPeng has tried to sell a luxury car. They tried it once before with the G9, but it did not go very well. Now, the GX has to fight against other popular Chinese EVs like the Li Auto L9 and the NIO ES8. Pretty much anywhere in the world, a car with all these features for £42,200 would be an instant hit. But in China, the competition is so tough that some people think the price is a bit high.
If you want to spend a little more, you can get a special paint job called “Kunlun Cloud Realm.” This paint is put on in 15 different layers, with each layer 230 micrometers thick. This makes the car look like it was painted by hand by an artist. It gives the GX a lustrous, deep look that you usually only see on cars that cost in excess of £150,000. XPeng is trying very hard to make sure this SUV feels like a true luxury product from top to bottom.
XPeng is changing from a car company into an AI mobility company. They are already making robots, eVTOL aircraft and are working on robot taxis. The XPeng GX is a big part of this new plan. If the self-driving technology works as well as they promise, the high price might be worth it. People might be willing to pay more for a car that can handle the boring parts of driving for them. For now, the cars are already arriving at stores in China.
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Next year marks the 30th anniversary of Williams’ last Formula 1 championship, so what better time to start mining crypto and put an example of the car that delivered that championship in your garage? Part of a sealed-bid RM Sotheby’s auction, this Williams FW19 spent the 1997 season on the sidelines, but it was driven by both Heinz-Harald Frentzen and eventual drivers’ champion Jacques Villeneuve in tests during that memorable season.
Despite the 1994 death of Ayrton Senna and the emergence of Michael Schumacher as a perennial nemesis (both at Benetton and Ferrari), Williams was the dominant force in F1 for most of the 1990s. Its active-ride cars swept Nigel Mansell and Alain Prost to championships in 1992 and 1993, respectively. And the team nearly came back to win the 1994 championship with Damon Hill, who eventually did so in 1996 before leaving over a contract dispute. That set up Villeneuve—son of F1 legend Gilles Villeneuve and already an Indy 500 winner and CART champion—as Williams’ start for 1997.
RM Sotheby’sRM Sotheby’sRM Sotheby’sRM Sotheby’
The car that would take Villeneuve to his sole F1 championship followed the same recipe of Renault V10 power and Adrian Newey design work that had served Williams so well up to this point. Villeneuve and Frentzen drove it to eight wins, 11 pole positions, nine fastest laps, and 15 podiums across 17 races, culminating in a championship decider at Jerez in which Schumacher eliminated himself by crashing into Villeneuve and ending up beached in a gravel trap.
This was truly the end of an era. Newey joined McLaren for the 1998 season, and Renault halted its factory engine program. Williams would make do with reheated versions of the French automaker’s engines before teaming up with BMW for 2000. But things were never the same again. Williams wouldn’t win another race until 2012, which remains its last win to date.
RM Sotheby’sRM Sotheby’RM Sotheby’sRM Sotheby’s
The car up for auction is the last of six FW19 chassis built that turned a wheel (a seventh was completed but never tested or raced). Beginning in June 1997, it was used in test sessions at Magny Cours, Silverstone, Monza, and Barcelona. Those in-season tests, as well as a post-season run at Barcelona, were the only action it saw before being retired to the Williams Heritage collection. It was fully restored in 2017 and sold by the team to its current owner in 2019. Since then, it’s only accumulated 107 miles, well under the 621-mile limit before another rebuild is needed, according to the auction listing.
RM Sotheby’s expects FW19 chassis number six to sell for between 1.1 million and 1.5 million British pounds, or approximately $1.4 million to $2.0 million at current exchange rates. Vintage F1 cars can get a lot more expensive, which might be reflection of this car’s lack of competition history. Regardless of how much it sells for, it’s an important reminder of what Williams used to be.
TOYOTA is confident that increased brand recognition for the bZ4X nameplate will contribute to significantly improved sales for its battery electric mid-size SUV model in Australia according to its local vice president of national sales, marketing, and franchise operations John Pappas.
Speaking with GoAuto at the Australian launch of the sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 in Tasmania last week, Mr Pappas expressed his confidence in the upgrades made to the bZ4X, and noted that inquiries had increased – even before recent fuel price spikes raised demand for EVs in the Australian market.
“I firmly believe that the new bZ4X upgrade that we’ve made is a very big step up when it comes to the value proposition to a customer,” he said.
“Well before the escalation of the fuel issues that are going on around us right now, we were seeing this massive step-up.
“Then we had the last three to four weeks where we’ve had even further inquiry on the car, because people are getting very nervous about now inquiring on EVs on the back of the fuel situation.”
Further interest in the model has been generated by the imminent arrival of the Touring variant, landing in Australian showrooms in May.
“On top of that we’ve now got the bZ4X Touring coming which is another value proposition because it’s a wagon, it’s got great power, and it’s got extra luggage space. It gives us a new conversation, and we’re excited about that.”
It has taken time for the bZ4X to garner brand recognition, as was the case for Toyota’s hybrid models according to Mr Pappas. However, its increased familiarity has improved the model’s sales outlook.
“We have obviously got such breadth across our range of hybrids, but hybrid technology has taken us over 20 years to (get to a level where it can now) penetrate 50 per cent of our sales,” he added.
“Now, we’ve introduced a new nameplate, which was the bZ4X in 2024, and at that time brand familiarity with ‘bZ’ was quite low.
“In time – a bit like hybrid – we saw the ‘bZ’ get increased familiarity and increased consideration, which is good.
“And now, obviously, with the latest (fuel price) situation – and a very good step up in the value of the bZ4X – we believe it is going to do five times (as many sales as) it did last year.”
Toyota bZ4X sales were slow when the model first arrived in Australia, mustering just 977 deliveries in 2024 and 1041 during 2025.
Meanwhile, the Tesla Model Y – Australia’s best-selling mid-size electric SUV in 2025 – posted 22,239 units sales in the last calendar year.
However, an update for the bZ4X was rolled out in Australia in December last year, which added a larger battery and more powerful electric motors – factors that have evidently increased the model’s appeal in the eyes of local buyers.
The two-wheel drive model received a 15kW/2.6Nm power and torque increase, while the all-wheel drive models’ power output increased by 92kW.
Its lithium-ion battery capacity was increased from 71.4kWh to 74.7kWh, resulting in a driving range increase of 155km and 106km on the WLTP cycle for the 2WD and AWD models respectively.
Prices were also slashed to the tune of $10,010 for the entry-level two-wheel drive model and $6910 for the all-wheel drive variant with the update.
The bZ4X range now starts from $55,990 plus on-road costs for the entry-level 2WD model, rising to $67,990 + ORC for the AWD version.
The incoming Touring model serves as the new flagship of the range and is priced at $69,990 + ORC.
Aramco? Isn’t that the Saudi Arabian Oil Company—aka “the world’s largest oil producer”? What is it doing designing a Dedicated Hybrid Engine (DHE) powertrain? Well, it’s heavily vested in keeping combustion engines relevant, and with hybrids attracting more buyers than battery-electric vehicles in some regions, a better hybrid “mousetrap” could be just the thing to keep folks queuing up at gas pumps indefinitely.
Also note this DHE isn’t Aramco’s only dog in the hybrid fight. Remember Horse Powertrain, the joint venture formed when Renault and Geely/Volvo spun off their combustion-engine operations? Those companies each hold 45 percent of the new JV, and Aramco owns the remaining 10 percent.
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Horse specializes in turnkey engines or range-extenders that allow companies to quickly and easily hybridize a combustion platform or add a range-extender to an existing battery-electric model. Aramco’s DHE looks to answer the question, “If you were designing the ideal new hybrid powertrain from scratch, what would it look like?”
Hybrid Synergy Drive for 2030?
An engine connecting to a motor-generator via planetary gears sounds very Toyota. First big difference: DHE features one such motor-generator-planetary setup at each end of the crankshaft. Second big difference: The engine itself is radically re-envisioned with laser focus on thermodynamic efficiency and cost reduction, leveraging a strong-hybrid duty cycle that seldom demands low-rpm torque or high-rpm power from the engine, but instead can run for extended periods occupying an “efficiency island” in the load/speed operation graph.
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The Engine
The initial proof-of-concept features a 1,599cc inline three-cylinder engine. To keep it notably compact, it’s a cam-in-block pushrod design. To keep it simple, it features a monoblock casting with no separate cylinder head and uses just two valves per cylinder with no variable timing or lift. To minimize friction, there are no journal bearings—the crank, camshaft, and connecting rods all ride on roller bearings, and the crank is offset 12 millimeters from the cylinder-bore centers to reduce piston side loading. There’s also no accessory drive; all auxiliaries including the water pump operate electrically on demand.
Many luxury brands today tout screen acreage and app capabilities when promoting their cabins, but this obsession with the digital world has increasingly come at the expense of old-world ideals like materials, craftsmanship, and build quality. The Audi A6 is a prime example, its dashboard lined with screens resembling a coder’s workstation or a teenager’s dream gaming rig more than a comfortable place you’d actually want to spend hours in on a long road trip.
Base Trim Engine
6.0L V12 Gas
Base Trim Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
Base Trim Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
565 hp
Base Trim Torque
465 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm
Fuel Economy
14/21 MPG
Segment
Midsize Luxury Performance Sedan
Things were very different even just a decade ago, as the Aston Martin Rapide S proves. Before software updates and display counts became luxury talking points, Aston Martin prioritized tactile richness and timeless design, resulting in an interior that still feels genuinely special today – and arguably better than many modern attempts at high-end cabins.
All prices were accurate at the time of writing but are subject to change.
Where Comfort Comes First
2017 Aston Martin Rapide S Interior ViewAston Martin
Key Facts To Know
Tachometer needle spins counter-clockwise to mirror speedometer
Glass key (dubbed the Emotion Control Unit) needs to be inserted into the dash
Power comes from naturally aspirated V12
Aston Martins almost universally turn heads with stunning exteriors, though their interiors have been a bit of a mixed bag, especially under Ford ownership, when some switchgear and other components were borrowed from models wearing the Blue Oval. That changed with the launch of the DB9 for the 2004 model year. Still developed under Ford’s stewardship (Ford didn’t sell Aston Martin until 2007), the DB9’s interior combined classic craftsmanship, rich leather, and aluminum trim with impressive ergonomics, giving it a tactile quality and refinement that set a new standard not only for the brand but for sports-luxury cars in general.
This interior was carried over almost unchanged to the Rapide launched for the 2010 model year, essentially a stretched DB9 with extra doors and seats. The design reached its zenith with the harder-edged Rapide S, introduced for 2014 and produced until 2017. It remains a high-water mark for Aston Martin, with even later models struggling to surpass the combination of materials, layout, and meticulous attention to detail.
2010 Aston Martin RapideAston Martin
The theater begins even before you step inside. Flush handles require a push on one end to pop out a stick-shaped lever, which you then pull to open. With the frameless doors, the windows tuck down in perfect co-ordination as the latch releases, allowing the “swan doors,” as Aston calls them, to swing outward and upward. Built-in friction plates let the doors stay suspended at any angle, which is perfect for when you’re climbing out of a steep parking spot.
Once inside, details like the gauge surrounds and controller dials – all genuine machined aluminum – give a solid, tactile feel. Even minor controls, like toggle switches, are often brushed or polished metal, instead of the plastic-coated stuff you find in most cars today. Even the key fob was made beautiful, formed from crystal glass. This almost old-world quality was paired with a sense of minimalism that lent the cabin a modern feel, with even a conventional gear lever replaced by shifter buttons on the dash.
2017 Aston Martin Rapide S Interior View Rear SeatsAston Martin
It’s not all good news. A digital screen sits atop the dash, but it’s small, low-resolution, and not a touchscreen, so some text can be hard to read and controlling it is difficult on the move. You navigate it using buttons and a rotary controller mounted next to the unit. Even when new, the system felt dated, and today it’s easier to just tuck it away and rely on a smartphone for navigation or Bluetooth-connected media. Basically, if you want a screen-free interior, this is the car for you.
Out back, the two rear seats, separated by an extended center console, are another sore point. They are difficult to access due to the low roofline and too cramped for anyone six feet or taller beyond a quick trip to the local shops. One highlight of the rear, however, is the storage area: a long hatch opens to reveal a rear compartment with a fold-flat bulkhead piece, allowing long items like skis to fit.
V12 Performance To Boot
2017 Aston Martin Rapide S V12 EngineAston Martin
Even if you ignore the interior, the Rapide S still impresses with a gorgeous exterior and performance that made it nearly as quick as the era’s top sports cars. Beneath the long hood sits a hand-built 6.0-liter V12, mounted behind the front axle and engineered to unleash an intoxicating roar at startup before settling into a civilized note for everyday driving. Push it past 4,000 rpm, though, and the engine wails with the unmistakable fury of a naturally aspirated V12.
2017 Aston Martin Rapide S
Engine
6.0-liter V12
Transmission
8-speed automatic
Power
552 hp
Torque
465 lb-ft
0-60 mph
4.2 seconds
Top Speed
203 mph
Original MSRP
$204,950
Handling is another strength, even with a hefty curb weight of roughly 4,400 pounds. Compared with the already capable Rapide, Aston Martin lowered the engine by 0.75 inches to drop the center of gravity. They also recalibrated the stability control, transmission, and adaptive damping (Normal, Sport, and Track modes) to suit the sharper focus of the S variant.
2017 Aston Martin Rapide S Interior ViewAston Martin
On a spirited drive, the car clings to the road with confidence that belies its bulk. At 84 inches wide, it’s a substantial machine, yet from the cockpit it feels surprisingly compact, allowing the driver to place it with remarkable precision. The steering is quick and doesn’t have any modes for adjustment, but it perfectly matches the car’s character. And staggered tires, measuring 245/40R20 up front and 295/35R20 at the rear, provide grip that’s more than adequate for street speeds, while massive vented brakes effortlessly scrub off speed.
How Much To Pay Today
2014 Aston Martin Rapide S group shotAston Martin
Anyone looking to own a Rapide S can find a decent example for just a little more than today’s average price for a new vehicle. A quick search on major classifieds shows prices starting around $60,000, and even at that level, many have only about 30,000 miles on the clock, showing how little these cars are actually driven.
The most affordable examples are the earliest model years, while more recent 2016 and 2017 cars command roughly $20,000 more, even with comparable mileage. A more extreme Rapide AMR with 603 hp was also offered for the 2019 and 2020 model years with a starting price of $240,000, though only 210 were built for worldwide sale and prices today still hover close to $200,000.
For buyers on a tighter budget, the Rapide S’ same stunning interior can still be had in the regular Rapide, which spans the 2010–2013 model years, though power dips to 470 hp on this model. You can find these listed for just over $30,000, with mileage around 60,000–70,000 miles. Raise the budget to about $40,000, and plenty of examples with well under 50,000 miles are available.
Higher-mileage cars shouldn’t scare you, as regular driving is beneficial for them, provided routine maintenance has been kept up. Always get a pre-purchase inspection and consider a factory-backed extended warranty.
A Love Of All Things Analog
2017 Aston Martin Rapide S Interior ViewAston Martin
Despite its age, the Aston Martin Rapide S remains a benchmark for tactile, driver-focused interiors, proving that cabins can feel luxurious without relying on endless touchscreens. Ultra-exotics like the Bugatti Tourbillon and De Tomaso P72 are returning to this philosophy, offering screen-free cabins, and over time, elements of this analog approach should filter down into more accessible models.
Regulatory shifts are reinforcing the trend. Only in February, China proposed rules that essential car functions retain physical controls, reversing the touchscreen-only approach. Given the size of the Chinese market, this move is likely to influence manufacturers worldwide, signaling that a tactile, human-centered cabin may finally return to many luxury cars.
Mazda sells two SUVs in the compact-SUV segment: the CX-5 and the CX-50. It’s not the only automaker to have two models competing in the same class—Jeep does the same with the Compass and Cherokee, for instance—but you may wonder why both Mazda crossovers exist when there’s so much overlap in terms of the two models’ sizes, prices, and capabilities. We’re here to shine a light on the similarities and differences between the two when it comes to features, performance, design, and specifications.
It’s important to note that you can’t really go wrong with either of these Mazda SUVs. They both sit near the top of our compact-SUV rankings, have won Car and Driver comparison tests, and have been among our Editors’ Choice picks. Choosing between the two mostly comes down to personal preferences, as they look different inside and out but otherwise feel similar from behind the wheel.
Want to see how these models stack up side-by-side? Compare cars with our new vehicle comparison tool.
Passenger and Cargo Space
The CX-5 and CX-50 are both compact SUVs, meaning they are similarly sized, but there are differences in their proportions and interior dimensions. The CX-50 is lower, wider, and slightly longer overall, meaning it casts a sleeker profile than the more upright CX-5. The redesigned 2026 CX-5 has been stretched, though, meaning it now has the same wheelbase as the CX-50. On the inside, this results in slight differences in passenger room: The CX-5 has a bit more passenger space and more headroom for both front and rear passengers. In our cargo-space testing, we were able to fit nine carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats of the CX-50, but we haven’t yet tested the new CX-5 to see how many cases it holds. Both models have split-folding rear seats that expand the cargo area should you need to carry larger items.
Technology and Infotainment
Mazda has made a major change to its infotainment system in the 2026 CX-5, meaning it has a completely different interface than what you’ll find in the CX-50. The new CX-5 has a significantly larger touchscreen infotainment system that integrates many controls that were previously hard buttons and knobs. The lower trims have a 12.9-inch touchscreen, while the higher trims have a 15.6-inch touchscreen.
Michael Simari|Car and Driver
CX-50
The CX-50, meanwhile, continues with the older Mazda infotainment setup, which uses a control knob on the console to operate the 8.8-inch screen, though a touchscreen function is available when you’re using smartphone-mirroring functions.
Engines, Transmissions, and Towing
The CX-50 and CX-5 offer the same gas engine as standard, but the major difference is that the CX-50 has two other available powertrains. The base engine for the CX-5 and CX-50 is a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower, while the CX-50 also offers an optional, more powerful engine: a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four with 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque (these numbers apply if you use premium fuel; Mazda quotes slightly lower power and torque figures on regular fuel). There’s also a CX-50 Hybrid, which has a powertrain borrowed from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, features a 2.5-liter gas engine and three electric motors for a total output of 219 horsepower. Mazda plans to add CX-5 Hybrid to the lineup in the near future, but we don’t yet have details on that powertrain.
In our testing, the naturally aspirated CX-50 got to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds, while the turbocharged version took 6.4 seconds. The CX-50 Hybrid with its 7.6 second result splits the difference between the base-engine CX-5 and the turbos. We haven’t yet tested the new 2026 CX-5.
The CX-50 is the vehicle to choose if you want to tow. It has a maximum towing capacity of 3500 pounds with the turbo engine, while the naturally aspirated model is rated to tow 2000 pounds. The Hybrid is good for just 1500 pounds, and the CX-5 is also rated for 1500 pounds.
Fuel Economy
EPA gas-mileage ratings for the CX-5 and CX-50 are nearly identical, with the base-engine versions of both rated at 26 mpg combined. Opting for the turbocharged engine drops the combined rating to 25 mpg for the CX-50. The CX-50 Hybrid is rated far higher, at 38 mpg combined. In our real-world 75-mph highway fuel economy test, the CX-50 Hybrid earned a result of 34 mpg, while the turbocharged CX-50 achieved 29 mpg.
Off-Road Capabilities
Neither of these Mazda SUVs are pitched as hardcore off-roaders, but the CX-50 has a bit more trail cred than the CX-5 does. The CX-50 has 8.3 inches of ground clearance to the CX-5’s 7.6 inches, meaning you’re less likely to scrape the bottom of the CX-50 if you take it on more challenging terrain. The CX-50 also offers a more rugged-looking trim level, the Meridian Edition, that comes with all-terrain tires and other accessories that make it look more adventurous than the standard models.
Joey Capparella|Car and Driver
CX-50 Turbo Meridian Edition with Apex Package
Pricing and Trim Levels
The CX-50 has a lower base price than the CX-5, but only slightly. Otherwise, the pricing is similar, except that the CX-50 offers more trim levels. The CX-50 also has a hybrid version that commands a price premium over the nonhybrid.
Prices for the 2026 Mazda CX-5:
2.5 S: $31,485
Select: $33,485
Preferred: $35,745
Premium: $38,395
Premium Plus: $40,485
Prices for the 2026 Mazda CX-50:
2.5 S Select: $31,395
2.5 S Preferred: $33,895
2.5 S Meridian Edition: $35,240
2.5 S Premium: $36,395
2.5 Turbo: $39,395
2.5 S Premium Plus: $38,920
2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition: $42,490
2.5 Turbo Premium Plus: $44,395
Prices for the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid:
Preferred: $36,840
Premium: $40,240
Premium Plus: $42,540
Despite being raised on a steady diet of base-model Hondas and Toyotas—or perhaps because of it—Joey Capparella cultivated an obsession for the automotive industry throughout his childhood in Nashville, Tennessee. He found a way to write about cars for the school newspaper during his college years at Rice University, which eventually led him to move to Ann Arbor, Michigan, for his first professional auto-writing gig at Automobile Magazine. He has been part of the Hearst Autos team since 2016 and now lives in New York City.
