Google is starting to add its Gemini AI assistant to all of its products, and now, Android Auto is getting the chatbot treatment.
The company announced on November 20 that Android Auto, which it says is available in more than 250 million vehicles on the road, will support Gemini for Android phone users who have upgraded from the previous Google Assistant system. The system has been rolling out to Android-based smartphones since last year, such as the Google Pixel, certain Samsung Galaxy models, as well as the ZFold 7 and ZFlip 7 phones.
Launched in 2023 as Bard and renamed Gemini in 2024, Google says its newest AI assistant’s conversational abilities are suited to in-car use for getting directions to categories of destinations rather than just a specific location, as well as sending messages rather than canned responses. It can also support features such as Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Tasks, Samsung Calendar, Samsung Reminder, and Samsung Notes. The company says other third-party apps will be offered in the future.
Google is also phasing in Gemini to vehicles with Google Built-In as it replaces the old Google Assistant. In May, Volvo was announced as the first automotive brand to receive Gemini, with 2026 models shipping with a revised Google Automotive OS-based infotainment system. Polestar, an all-electric brand of which Volvo owns a minority stake, announced this week it would add Gemini to its 2026 vehicles through a future software update.
Last month, General Motors said it would add Google Gemini to its vehicles that use Android Automotive-based infotainment systems in 2025, including its electric vehicles such as the Chevrolet Equinox EV and Cadillac Escalade IQ. However, the automaker said it was also developing its own AI software for future models.
Getting a good glimpse of what Chevrolet has to offer for 2026, the Trax proves that a subcompact crossover might be cheap to buy, but it doesn’t have to look like it. Although economically sound starting at $25K, the Trax proves the automaker didn’t pull back on the reigns regarding style, technology, and perfectly balancing practicality with innovation.
Visually, my reviewed Trax welcomed the eyes with a recommended White Sands exterior strategically contrasting the jet black seats accented in red for a racing-inspired feel. Rolling on 19-inch black-painted machined wheels; flaunting LED headlamps and running lights; and a rear spoiler to flex a sporty presence, prospective buyers will immediately feel they are getting a big bang for their buck. Adding the optional power sunroof package including a wireless charging pad steps its game up even more.
The ECOTEC 1.2L turbocharged engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission may not win NASCAR competitions peaking at 137 horsepower, but it does provide enough pep and efficiency averaging 30 miles per gallon combined. The StabiliTrak stability control system with traction control also improves the driving experience and boosts confidence in taking on various road conditions.
Chevrolet clearly showed love regarding comfort and connectivity inside the cabin. The 11-inch advanced color touchscreen provides the driver with a user-friendly command center in the cockpit, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The remote start; keyless open and start; and a respectable six-speaker audio system are also generous appointments coming standard. Long distance excursions are easier considerations thanks to the eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, while passengers get pampered with the Evotex seating surfaces and heated front seats—a luxury rarely found in this price range.
Minds get more relaxed with Chevy’s Safety Assist suite includes forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and front pedestrian braking. The optional Driver Confidence Package my car featured included rear cross traffic alert, lane change alert with side blind zone alert, and adaptive cruise control; these embellishments are more than ideal for new drivers, first-time car owners, and starting families.
With its three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, five-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage, and first maintenance visit included, Chevrolet is doing everything they can to assure their new Trax gets driven off sales lots nationwide.
Ultimately, the 2026 Trax will not be seen as a budget crossover, but instead one hell of a deal thanks to its style, workmanship, numerous appointments coming standard, and tremendous value. This new vehicle is a winner.
Fuel Economy: 28 city/32 highway/30 combined
Price: The 2026 Chevrolet Trax 2RS starts at $25,300 and $26,990 as reviewed with Sunroof and Driver Confidence Packages.
The midsize crossover market is crowded, but the three-row 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 2.5 S-AWC still finds a way to shine and stand out. This automaker does a masterful job of combining captive design, interior comfort, and practical versatility while maintaining a fair price starting at around $39K and $45K fully equipped with multiple options to make the most frugal smile.
Refined for 2025, my Outlander was dressed in a stealthy Moonstone Gray Metallic with a contrasting black roof to deliver an upscale presence upon sight. The 20-inch, two-tone alloy wheels; silver roof rails; spoiler; and futuristic LED lighting from nose to tail—including headlights, fog lights, and distinctive combination tail lamps—further raise its curb appeal.
Preproduction model shown. Available Spring 2025.
Under the hood, a 2.5-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine provides adequate pep with direct injection paired to an eight-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT) for a smoother ride. Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, and multiple drive mode selector—Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, Normal, Eco, and Mud—boosts the confidence to handle whatever road conditions Mother Nature presents the drive. I also appreciated the paddle shifters, and the shift-by-wire technology provided an escape from the normalcy of traditional gear shifters. The respectable 26 mpg combined (24 city/30 highway) provides some wallet relief with lesser trips to the gas station as well.
Photos courtesy of Mitsubishi
Inside, the SEL’s cabin feels more premium than its price suggests including all the extra packages. Semi-aniline leather-appointed seating with brick brown accents, ventilated front seats, and a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel provide generous comfort for especially long-distance excursions. More pilot perks include a 12-way power seat with memory linked to the key fob, an updated 12.3-inch full digital driver display, 10.8-inch Head-Up Display, digital rearview mirror, and a 12-speaker Dynamic Sound Yamaha Ultimate sound system to elevate the driving experience. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; navigation; and multiple USB-C ports keep every passenger powered up. Three-zone automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, rear door sunshades, and even LED foot lighting collectively make the cabin even more pampering for up to seven people.
Photos courtesy of Mitsubishi
Safety is evidently a priority for Mitsubishi as well. Numerous features ease the mind including MI-PILOT Assist featuring Navi-link; adaptive cruise control with stop & go; lane keep and lane departure prevention; forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection; blind spot warning with lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert; and rear automatic emergency braking. Multiple airbags—including front center and driver/passenger knee airbags—plus electronic stability control, hill start assist, and trailer stability assist make adventures especially to mountainous environs a welcomed option.
Ownership benefits sweeten the deal, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, five years of unlimited-mile roadside assistance, and two years of complimentary maintenance. I’m not mad at that reassurance.
Overall, the Mitsubishi Outlander SEL 2.5 S-AWC delivers with its 2025 upgrades in numerous departments, including design and technology. So whether it’s bobbing and weaving through the city or feeling adventurous for a long excursion, this SUV steps up to the plate.
Fuel Economy: 24 city/30 highway/26 combined
Price: Starts at $38,795 (MSRP); reviewed in the SEL trim and including $3,050 Premium Package; $1,400 Launch Package, and destination is $45,930.
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Is your car feeling a little dated? Zippia revealed that the average one-way commute for Americans is about 27.6 minutes. That amounts to nearly an hour in your car every day. If it’s in desperate need of some upgrades, a large display can make it feel brand-new.
This 9″ wireless heads up car display with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibility and phone mirroring gives your car’s entertainment system a new lease on life — and even includes built-in speakers to listen to your jams. And right now, it can be yours for just $104.99 (reg. $289) for a limited time.
Whether you use your phone for navigating or changing up your playlist, make things a whole lot safer with this 9″ Wireless Heads Up Car Display with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Compatibility and Phone Mirroring. It lets you navigate, change up your music, and even take calls using your preferred helper, Siri or Google Assistant. It’s all done on a stunning 1024×600 resolution in full HD and comes complete with a touchscreen to get everything done safely and efficiently.
A self-adhesive bracket lets you install it on your dashboard easily, without interfering with your current setup. It’s also easy to disassemble and store for safety. Automatic and manual brightness adjustment helps you avoid eye pain if you’re in a dark environment or on a late-night ride. And if your car’s speakers could use some help, it has powerful speakers built-in, as well as a preset equalizer.
Make commuting more convenient with this 9″ wireless heads up car display with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibility and phone mirroring, now just $104.99 (reg. $289) for a limited time.
