Following a new vehicle introduction, most cars undergo at least one refresh before entering a new generation. While each new model year bolsters standard equipment a little or offers new paint colors, a refresh brings bigger updates like styling tweaks, new technology, and revised features. These updates can keep vehicles competitive for a time, but eventually a full redesign is needed. Redesigns introduce new platforms, powertrains, and design language.
Though some car purchases can’t be delayed, timing your buy around a refresh or redesign can earn you better equipment or more negotiating power for an older model year. Here are five redesigned vehicles for 2022 worth investigating.
2022 Acura MDX
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Acura’s three-row mid-size SUV has been on sale since 2000, and enters a new generation for 2022. Attempting to nudge the premium brand further into the luxury automotive space, the latest MDX boasts eye-catching new exterior styling, additional legroom in all three rows, and improved interior materials.
Ride and seat comfort are high points for the latest MDX, while Acura’s tricky touchpad interface and sluggish V6 fail to impress. The tech story isn’t all sour, thankfully. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a punchy 16-speaker ELS Studio sound system, and USB charging in all three rows are contemporary conveniences. Prices for the 2022 Acura MDX start at $49,195
2022 Honda Civic
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The Honda Civic is a compact sedan staple with 50 years of refinement. For 2022, the Civic bundles its affordable, efficient, and reliable attributes in a more mature body style. Compared to the outgoing Civic’s edgy design, the latest model is modest – some might even say boring.
Inside, the 11th generation Civic is spacious and well built. Though the base 2.0-liter 4-cylinder lacks grunt, the turbocharged 1.5-liter unit helps the Civic hustle. Ride comfort and handling are segment-leading, but road noise levels are elevated at highway speeds. Starting prices for the 2022 Civic are higher than some competitors, but excellent fuel economy and compelling standard features feel worth the premium. Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $23,645
2022 Toyota Tundra
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Since the Tundra entered the full-size pickup truck market in 1999 (preceded by the T100), Toyota has nurtured a growing group of loyal customers. Still, the last generation Tundra had started to lag behind competitors since its introduction in 2007. This new model touts a coil-spring rear suspension, twin-turbocharged base V6, available hybrid, and improved fuel economy.
Though it’s hard to match EPA estimates, we did appreciate the new truck’s smooth, powerful engines, intuitive 14-inch touchscreen infotainment, and full-width power rear window. The changes for 2022 put the Tundra back in the thick of the full-size pickup discussion. MSRP starts at $39,695
2022 Subaru BRZ
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Developed alongside Toyota’s GR 86, the Subaru BRZ has become an enthusiast icon in just 10 years. Attainable, lightweight, and manual-equipped, the BRZ is both an entry point for blossoming drivers and a weekend toy for those with a little cash to spare. Redesigned for 2022, the latest BRZ has a refined look, bigger engine, and updated interior.
Not only is the new 2.4-liter 4-cylinder more potent than the outgoing 2.0-liter, but it resolves the “dip” in power that handicapped the predecessor’s performance. Steering and handling remain savory, and the improved infotainment adds convenience. The fun per dollar is hard to match, far outweighing small complaints about engine note and sound system quality. MSRP: $28,990.
2022 Hyundai Tucson
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The most popular vehicle segment is fiercely competitive, yet the Hyundai Tucson continues to earn new buyers with its mix of affordability, comfort, and convenience. The Tucson has come a long way since its inception in 2004, and the 2022 model steps into a new generation with useful tech features, stand-out styling, and a roomy cabin.
Edmunds experts appreciated the new Tucson’s ride comfort and user-friendly tech, though sluggish engine response grew tedious. The 2022 Tucson’s jagged design may split opinions, but standard features and build quality are objectively solid for the segment. MSRP: $26,175
Before You Buy…
If you’re hesitant about choosing a vehicle based on a particular feature or styling trait, waiting for a refresh or redesign could solve all uncertainty. Furthermore, staying on top of upcoming model changes will give you negotiating power when shopping outgoing models.