Yahoo Autos Editors' Picks November 2023: Toyota Grand Highlander, Buick Envista and some lovely luxury vehicles
It's been a month since we served you with the full lot of Autoblog Editors' Picks, and that master list is going to continue to grow as more new cars enter the market. For November 2023, we have a trio of SUVs coming in at various sizes and price points including the Buick Envista, Toyota Grand Highlander and Mercedes-Benz GLS. And if you're looking for a convertible sports car, the BMW Z4 is one that should make your shortlist, as it finds its way into this month's of Editors' Picks, as well.
In case you missed previous Editors' Picks posts, here’s a quick refresher on what’s going on here. We rate all the new cars we drive with a 1-10 score. Cars that are exemplary in their respective segments get an Editors’ Pick designation. Those are the ones we’d recommend to our friends, family and anybody who’s curious and asks the question. The list that you’ll find below consists of every car we rated in November that earned an Editors’ Pick.
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
Quick take: The Hybrid Max is the one to get, but the Grand Highlander comes highly recommended for its added space, nicer interior and fuel efficient powertrains.
Score: 7
What it competes with: Kia Telluride, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Chevy Traverse, Honda Pilot, Subaru Ascent, Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-9, Kia Sorento, Buick Enclave, Nissan Pathfinder, VW Atlas, Mazda CX-90
Pros: Two hybrid powertrain options; exceptional cargo space; usable third row; refined and quiet ride.
Cons: Expensive for the segment; the lesser hybrid powertrain is noisy and slow.
From the editors:
Senior Editor, Electric, John Beltz Snyder — "The Grand Highlander is a nice alternative to the standard Highlander for the Toyota faithful for its usable third row. The choice of powertrains is a huge boon, too, whether you want a fuel-sipping hybrid, or solid gas engine or a more robust hybrid with extra performance. You’re just going to have to pay a little more for it all."
In-depth analysis: 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Review: A strong, new three-row contender
2024 Buick Envista
Quick take: The Envista is one of our top subcompact SUV picks. It packs tremendous value into a compelling design that looks far more expensive than it is. A homerun for Buick.
Score: 8
What it competes with: Ford Bronco Sport, Chevy Trax, Jeep Compass, Chevy Trailblazer, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, Honda HR-V, Nissan Kicks, Toyota Corolla Cross, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, Mini Countryman, Kia Soul, Kia Seltos
Pros: Compelling design; ample space for the segment; quiet and refined driving experience; punchy and efficient engine; well-equipped; low price.
Cons: All-wheel drive not available; armrests are a bit hard.
From the editors:
Senior Editor, Electric, John Beltz Snyder — "I was thoroughly impressed by the Envista. It looks different than the competition, but without looking weird. The price belies the car’s comfort, just as the output figures belie its pep around town. If you don’t need all-wheel drive, and want a pretty nice car on a budget, the Envista isn’t a bad way to go."
In-depth analysis: 2024 Buick Envista Review: Looks like $60,000, costs less than $30,000
