Gilbert Smith is an automotive journalist with over five years of specialized research and writing experience. Before joining CarBuzz in 2024, he produced in-depth buyer’s guides and feature articles ...

Many carmakers claim that one of its different models was the first crossover, but as far as I'm concerned that's like being the first locust in the plague. Curbside Classics says the Matra Rancho was ...

The Matra-Simca Rancho was a crossover that appeared in 1977, decades before anyone had thought up the term. Back then, it was known as a “lifestyle” vehicle, and in many ways, it set the template for ...

WHAT IS IT? Back in the Seventies, if you wanted a 4x4 that was a decent steer, you pretty much had a choice of one: the Range Rover. The Matra Rancho was a brave attempt to marry the butch off-road ...

Right now, off-roaders (also known, amusingly, as Sports Utility Vehicles - SUVs) are hot property. There's a whiff of political incorrectness about them, but millions of buyers still want them, ...

Right now, off-roaders (also known, amusingly, as Sports Utility Vehicles - SUVs) are hot property. There's a whiff of political incorrectness about them, but millions of buyers still want them, ...