Senior Research Editor
Damon Bell
Senior Research Editor Damon Bell has more than 25 years of experience in the automotive industry, beginning as an Engineering Graphics researcher/proofreader at model-car manufacturer Revell-Monogram. From there, he moved on to various roles at Collectible Automobile magazine and Consumer Guide Automotive before joining Cars.com in August 2022. He served as president of the Midwest Automotive Media Association in 2019 and 2020.
The Mazda3 is one of the oldest designs in the compact-car segment, but it’s still one of the most engaging and fun to drive — even if it’s showing its age in some ways.
By Damon Bell
Senior Research Editor
Toyota takes back the crown of most dependable brand in Consumer Reports’ Annual Auto Reliability Survey.
By Damon Bell
December 4, 2025
Honda’s popular three-row mid-size SUV is refreshed for 2026, gaining face-lifted exterior styling, upgraded tech features, and new trim touches inside and out.
By Damon Bell
November 18, 2025
We’ve picked up a few minor blemishes in the finish of our long-term Toyota 4Runner, so we polished them out with a ceramic paint-correction product.
By Damon Bell
November 6, 2025
Jeep pushed out an over-the-air software update on Friday, Oct. 10, that apparently caused major powertrain problems for some Wrangler 4xe owners.
By Damon Bell
October 13, 2025
Tesla is offering a dealer-installed retrofit turn-signal stalk for Model 3s equipped with the automaker’s steering-wheel-mounted turn-signal buttons.
By Damon Bell
October 9, 2025
SUVs and EVs have a few natural handicaps when it comes to offering a sporty, engaging driving experience; the Porsche Macan Electric aims to overcome those and feel like a true Porsche.
By Damon Bell
Senior Research Editor
Mercedes-Benz’s hot-rod AMG E53 sedan gains a wagon sibling for the 2026 model year powered by the same 577-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain.
By Damon Bell
September 11, 2025
The 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning lineup gains a new STX trim level with unique touches, some rugged features and a standard extended-range battery.
By Damon Bell
September 8, 2025
The Kia Sportage gets a nicely executed refresh for 2026 that gives it a slightly more conventional look and some welcome new standard and available features.
By Damon Bell
Senior Research Editor