Episode 161 - 2023 Nissan Z, 2023 Lexus RZ 450e, Ford Ranger Raptor

Ford has just pulled the wraps off the all-new 2024 Ford Ranger and Ford Ranger Raptor, and we’ll have an exclusive interview with the truck’s marketing manager, Gretchen Sauer. The all-new Ranger is a serious step up from the previous edition, which had an overseas focus and was rushed into the U.S. market as midsize pickup truck sales rebounded in the past several years.

The first-ever Ford Ranger Raptor brings 405 horsepower to the party via its 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6. Coupled to an advanced four-wheel drive system, a new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case, and front and rear locking differentials, the Ranger Raptor will get the job done off road.

The 2024 Ranger features a more powerful 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 as a drivetrain option. New features like an available integrated box side step and fold-flat rear seats make the Ranger more versatile and useful as a hauler. The wider bed means that the Ranger can now hold four-foot-wide materials flat on the deck between the wheel wells. In-bed and in-cab outlets can power tools and devices on the work site or campsite. Pro Trailer Backup Assist, an integrated trailer brake controller, and a 360-degree camera make it clear the new Ranger is ready to tow.

In this week’s road test segment Host Jack Nerad will evaluate Lexus’s first all-electric vehicle, the 2023 RZ 450e. The small luxury crossover finds itself in the midst of a bevy of small battery-electric crossovers, all vying for the same customers. Lexus is counting on a secret ingredient to be a difference-maker, and we’ll tell you what is.

The hot new Nissan Z is our other road test vehicle this week. Co-Host Chris Teague took a week off from driving three-row family vehicles to put his foot to the floor in the hot two-seater. With 400 horsepower on tap and a willing chassis, the new Z is one of the best bang-for-the-buck cars on the market right now.

In this week’s news, we ask the important question, “Can you afford to buy a new car?” A lot of people can’t, and we’ll report on new data that shows just how difficult it is these days. We’ll have commentary and some tips that can put the situation in perspective.

While many cars are becoming more unaffordable, a select few are getting cheaper. It’s very possible that we will soon see an all-out price war in the electric-vehicle market. More entries are coming into play while interest rates continue to shoot up, and consumers are confused about the