2025 Buick Enclave
Buick unveiled the third generation Enclave earlier this month in Detroit, and the flagship three-row SUV emerges looking like a completely different animal than the previous version. The nose in particular receives the greatest change incorporating thin “checkmark” signature LED lighting with the main headlamps placed below, flanking a large trapezoidal grille. A full length taillamp bar gives the backside some modern flair. The company calls this styling philosophy PURE: Purity in design, Unexpected details, Refined finishes and Exceptional executions.
Offered in Sport Touring and Avenir trims, the latter’s interior is upholstered in beautiful navy blue and white leather. The front massage seats are heated and ventilated, and there’s a panoramic sunroof overhead. The former has a more performance-oriented aesthetic, as evidenced by a flat-bottom steering wheel. A 30-inch ultra-wide infotainment screen floats above the dash in both. Besides the up to nine camera views that can be displayed, another tech standout is the first Buick introduction of Super Cruise hands-free driving assistance.
The Enclave trades in its 3.6-litre V6 engine mill for a 2.5-litre turbocharged four cylinder making an additional 18 horsepower (328 total) and a hefty 60 lb-ft of torque (326) compared to before. All-wheel drive is standard, and towing is rated at a maximum 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) if the optional trailer package is equipped. Pricing and supplementary information is expected closer to the summer when orders open, and manufacturing is set to take place at the Lansing Delta Township Assembly facility in Michigan.
2025 Land Rover Defender Octa
Dubbed the most powerful Defender vehicle ever, the top-of-the-line Octa bundles a V8 twin-turbo mild-hybrid gasoline engine and a 6D Dynamics air suspension. Boasting hydraulic interlinked technology, 6D utilizes a unique pitch-and-roll control system allowing the off-roader to stay level during acceleration, braking and cornering on pavement, as well as extend independent wheel travel and articulation over unpredictable surfaces.
The Defender Octa also sports several special diamond-shaped badges on the exterior and in the cabin, symbolizing its toughness. A late 2024 arrival is expected.
2025 Hyundai Tucson
The fourth-gen Hyundai Tucson is undergoing a facelift, debuting Parametric design elements à la the electric Ioniq portfolio. The front and rear fascias are all new, as are the alloy wheels, anodized aluminum badging and 75-millimetre longer rear wiper blade providing better functionality. In addition, the grille-housed daytime-running lights are wider and simplified down to eight modules instead of the outgoing 10.
Inside is where consumers will see the biggest enhancements. The Ioniq-style dual 12.3-inch instrument cluster and infotainment displays fill out the dash, and the centre-stack unit below (thankfully) reintroduces physical knobs and buttons to control the stereo and HVAC systems. A selection of internal combustion and partially electrified powertrains continue to be produced, and the former option includes a Baby Mode that eases acceleration feel to provide a gentler experience.
2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Also getting a refresh for the 2025 model year is the Santa Cruz. A grade-topping XRT trim is being sold for the first time showcasing more rugged bumpers, a blacked-out grille, front tow hooks, 245/60/R18 all-terrain tires wrapped around wrench-inspired alloys and an increased approach angle. It looks particularly spicy in the added Canyon Red paint colour — or tone things down with the sage-like Rockwood Green.
As the pickup is built on the Tucson, similar interior changes are shared on both platforms like the available 12.3+12.3-inch dash screens and remixed centre stack. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto gain wireless capability, and users can now take advantage of USB Type-C ports to connect smart devices.
Jeep Vacationeer
Dubbed the brand’s home away from home, the 58th Easter Jeep Safari once again took place at Moab, Utah celebrating off-roading culture. As usual, some cool concept models were revealed at the event and one of this year’s highlights is the pastel-coloured Jeep Vacationeer. Blending new and old school design, there are obvious elements from the modern-day Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer and their predecessors from the late 1960s to the early 1990s.
The woodgrain graphics running down the sides of the Spearmint 4X4 hearken back to simpler times, while the contemporary 18×9-inch bead grip 701 Method Race Wheels shod in 35-inch BF mud-terrain tires ensure traction in almost all conditions. The latter is installed under larger fender openings and flares, and the whole SUV sits on a 1.5-inch factory lift. It even sleeps two thanks to a custom Redtail Overland Skyloft Rooftop Camper system.