Nice Drives: End of the Ice Age?

Even with EVs like the new BMW, internal-combustion-engine SUVs are far from extinct.

By Isaac Bouchard

Electric Rides

After many years as the only legit electric vehicle company, Tesla finally has some real rivals. Companies like BMW, Mercedes, VW Group are spending untold billions to go all in on EVs. And Hyundai Motor Group, the world’s fifth-largest car manufacturer, has been quietly creating the infrastructure to create compelling cars like the Hyundai Ioniq5 and Kia EV6 to challenge the Tesla Model Y. Meanwhile, GM, Ford and Toyota continue to pump out profitable body-on-frame trucks and SUVs to fund their own shifts away from the internal combustion engine (ICE).

2022 BMW i4 M50i  

EPA Ratings: 80MPGe

0-60mph: 3.1sec

Price as tested: $77,070

Priced squarely to compete with the Tesla Model 3 Performance, the M50i version of BMW’s i4 EV is one compelling machine. It hits 60mph in 3.1 seconds and boasts the kind of passing acceleration once reserved exclusively for hypercars. This comes courtesy of unique, “current excited” AC synchronous motors, that use less rare-earth materials and output 536 hp and 586 lb-ft.

It also handles and rides beautifully, smothering bumps and sweeping through corners with real verve. Its steering—like most all current BMWs—isn’t the last word in feel, though. The M50i has an EPA rating that is almost 40-90 miles less than a Model 3 Performance (depending on wheel size), but in the real world the gap is more like 30-50 miles—still significant, but not a deal-killer.

Since buyers can take advantage of the fed’s $7,500 tax credit and get two free years at Electrify America chargers, it costs no more than the Model 3. The i4’s interior carefully bridges the company’s legacy ICE cars and the minimalism of a Tesla. Although its back seat lacks headroom, the hatchback and large cargo area make it very practical. Outside, this is one BMW that generates overwhelmingly positive commentary.

2022 Ford F-150 Tremor

EPA Ratings: 16/20/18

0-60mph: 5.3sec

Price as tested: $67,520

The F-Series continues to be the world’s best-selling vehicle. Splitting the difference between the four-shot, full-fat Raptor and a basic, half-calf, skinny F-150 with FX4 package, Ford’s rolled out the Tremor. Demarked by orange trim inside and out, map- and camo-inspired texturing on the dash and door panels, and some serious hardware underneath, this model might just be the sweet spot in the lineup.

Outside there are hood vents and powder-coated running boards like the Raptor, and 18-inch wheels with tall sidewall tires that not only do better on trails, but over the road as well. Combined with excellent damping, this is the best-riding F-150 yet, with none of the oversprung bounciness of some other models. Electronic aids like Trail Control, Trail and Turn Assist (which drags a wheel to pivot around obstacles), a locking rear diff, optional limited slip front and more, mean it is one serious off-road beast—and, since it’s much narrower than a Raptor, better for trail work.

Under that vented hood is a 400hp version of the 3.5L, twin turbo V6. It gets to 60 mph sportscar quick, yet it can turn 20 mpg on the highway. The Tremor also can tow 2,700 pounds more than Raptor and has a 445-pound greater payload capacity. The Tremor is available in three levels of trim. Standard, Mid and High, so there’s basically one for every palette.

2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

EPA Ratings: 16/19/17

0-60mph: 7.7sec

Price as tested: $53,435

The 4Runner is an institution: the toughest, longest-lasting, most-reliable and best-resale-value vehicle you can buy and own in Colorado. It’s also antiquated, lethargic and geriatric—sometimes in all the best ways. Compared to modern machines, its steering is deliberate and body motions almost glacial.

At least, with the fancy, Fox-branded dampers on the TRD Pro model, the 4Runner’s typically undisciplined ride is brought into the acceptable category. The 4-liter V6 that powers all models still struggles though, lacking a willingness to deliver its 270hp through a slow-shifting 5-speed automatic.

The 4Runner is stoutly built, and its interior quite roomy. And before someone can finish griping about the lack of a s.l..o…w power hatch, the Toyota’s manual one has been thrown open or slammed closed—and it has a window that powers down to provide a nice flow of air from the sunroof. All 4Runners are decent off-pavement, with the Pro packing beefier tires, skid plates that could seemingly stop a Javelin anti-tank missile, and 9.6 inches of ground clearance. Combined with the classic lettered grill and solid roof rack, the TRD Pro shouts—and provides—off-road indomitability.

Automotive Editor Isaac Bouchard owns Denver-based Bespoke Autos ([email protected]; 303-475-1462). Read more of his automotive writing, reviews and recommendations at coloradoavidgolfer.com and bespokeautos.com.

---

This article can also be found in the June Issue of Colorado AvidGolfer.

Colorado AvidGolfer is the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it, publishing eight issues annually and proudly delivering daily content via coloradoavidgolfer.com.

Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.