Carl Malek

Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com. Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.
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Volkswagen Infuses More GTI Magic and Golf R DNA Into 2019 Jetta GLI [Live Pics]

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Volkswagen has alot riding on the current generation Jetta. While the newly updated Jetta brings a lot of good things to the iconic compact, the one thing that felt missing here was the absence of the range topping GLI variant. Volkswagen has taken note of this absence, and has formally unveiled the 2019 Jetta GLI at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show. The exterior styling of the 2019 Jetta GLI follows the same motif as other iterations of the GLI, with the suit of clothes largely being shared with the standard Jetta. However, the honeycomb grille is a dead giveaway of …

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Volkswagen Teases 2020 Jetta GLI Sedan Ahead of Chcago Debut

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Volkswagen is primed and ready to showoff the new generation Jetta GLI at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show later this week, but before the sportiest of al;\l Jettas makes its mark, the German car giant has chosen to release a small teaser of what buyers can expect when the new and improved GLI eventually makes its way to dealerships later this year. Unlike the typical teaser campaign that usually begins with a lone teaser image usually from odd or even unorthodox angles, Volkswagen has chosen to release a small GIF image of the GLI going in and out of focus …

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Ford Cranks Up Horsepower Wars With 2020 Super Duty, Debuts New 7.3 liter V8

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The heavy duty pickup truck wars have never been hotter than they are now. All three major players (Ford GM and Ram) have all unveiled heavily revised offerings that aim to take the HD crown, with the Ram boasting an impressive 1,000 lb ft of torque. Ford didn’t want to be left in the dust, and has formally unveiled the heavily revised 2020 Ford Super Duty. Unlike the other two, Ford is keeping its torque figures close to the cuff, but the exterior styling for 2020 does not stray too far from the basic formula that has made the current …

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Toyota/Subaru Refute Reports of Demise of GT86/BRZ, Confirm Next Generation Model Is In The Works

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Following a flurry of reports that suggested both the Toyota GT86 and the Subaru BRZ were not long for this world, representatives from Toyota and Subaru denied reports that both cars would be axed, and also revealed that work on the next generation Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ is already underway. While Toyota’s recent partnership with BMW on the Toyota Supra/BMW Z4 is currently center stage news these days, it can easy to be forget that Toyota also has a partnership with Japanese rival Subaru for production of the budget minded Toyota GT86 (aka the old Scion FR-S) and the …

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Hyundai Tuscon N Model in the Works? New Report Suggest Its Happening

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Hyundai’s N performance sub brand has bold aspirations for the performance vehicle market. With the i30 N and the U.S. exclusive Veloster N covering both sides of the globe with their hot hatch performance and the Elantra GT N-Line signaling the emergence of the N-Line lineup, new rumors suggest that an unlikely Hyundai offering could be the third model in Hyundai and N’s ruthless assault on the performance SUV segment. While we had our collective sights on perhaps seeing the smaller Kona CUV receive an N branded model of its own, several company insiders revealed to the folks at Auto …

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Toyota Teases GR Supra Performance Line Concept Ahead of February 9th

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Amid all the Toyota vehicles that will be making there debuts at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show next week, the Japanese auto giant has released a teaser sketch of a concept that will not make its in augural appearance in the Windy City. Dubbed the GR Supra Performance Line concept, it promises to be a compelling showcase of just how far the envelope for Supra performance can be pushed. Admittedly, the teaser sketch is very limited in details, with only the basic outline being apparent. However, some details do manage to poke through to help catch the eye of enthusiasts. …

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Lexus Previews 2019 NX F Sport Black Line Special Edition

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When it comes to being popular, the Lexus NX lineup has proven to be a very popular model for Lexus dealers. While we are still scratching our heads over the oddly styled and distinctively smaller UX crossover, Lexus engineers have decided to give the NX a bit more style, with an all new limited edition model that aims to help it reconnect with its sporty DNA. Dubbed the NX F Sport Black Line Special Edition, this particular iteration of NX boasts a very long moniker, as well as an equally long suite of tweaks to help it stand out somewhat …

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Toyota Teases 2020 Tacoma Ahead of Chicago Debut

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In an announcement that it revealed yesterday, Toyota has confirmed that it will be showcasing an all new version of its venerable Tacoma pickup truck at the Chicago Auto Show in February. The unveiling of the all new Tacoma comes at a key time in the model’s history, especially considering that the once dominant king of the mid-size truck segment now faces an all new field of contenders that aim to steal its sales throne from its wheel arches. Admittably, Toyota’s announcement lacks key details, but the company has released a lone darkened teaser image that showcases the front end …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Cadillac Escalade ESV Premium Luxury (4WD) – By Carl Malek

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When we had our chance to experience the 2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label sometime ago, we adored its interior, elegant driving manners, and its yacht-esque styling both inside and out. We were so impressed, that we decided to test its chops with a road trip to northern and western Michigan where it performed almost flawlessly. But we always had an eye on giving domestic rival Cadillac the chance to issue a rebuttal. Cadillac reps obliged, and allowed us to experience an Escalade on our home turf. But can the Escalade (a model that once dominated older Navigator iterations in sales) …

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First Look Video – GAC Motor GE3 EV – By Carl Malek – [Video]

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When we last started our two part video series on GAC Motor, we began by focusing on the contents of their mysterious press kit, the shady way you have to give your ID to get one, and the lousy value that you ultimately get for giving your personal information. For part two of our series, we leave the gimmicky press kit at home, and instead conclude our coverage of the 2019 North American International Auto Show by taking a look at one of their models to see if GAC Motor has the necessary hardware to back up their bold plans …

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First Look: Mahindra ROXOR 4×4 UTV – By Carl Malek

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With our coverage of the 2019 Auto Show ongoing, we decided to visit our friends at Mahindra to see the ROXOR and find out exactly what it brings to the 4×4 market. The ROXOR has managed to build quite the reputation for itself in the few years that it has made the rounds. A lot of potential buyers are enamored by its combination of keep it simple engineering, and its low price point, others like its flexible suite of options, and the bargain basement price point. But does the ROXOR has what it takes to carve a viable niche for …

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Kia’s Telluride SUV Brings Bold Styling and Rugged Capability To Kia SUV Lineup

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Kia has been on a roll as of late, and it had a very strong 2018 with the unveiling of the redesigned Kia Forte, as well as the recent unveiling of the redesigned Soul lineup. But amid the vibes generated by these models, as well as the ongoing success of the Kia Stinger sport sedan, a notable void existed in its SUV lineup with the Sorento being the biggest offering that Kia offered. The Korean car brand decided to change that today, and has unveiled the biggest SUV it has ever produced, the 2020 Kia Telluride. Before we get into …

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Ford and Volkswagen Announce Global Alliance, Will Not Involve Cross Ownership

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In a landmark announcement that is currently breaking as we speak, Ford and Volkswagen have agreed to a global alliance that aims to enhance capabilities for both companies, while also enhancing overall levels of scale at the same time in a period where more and more unlikely alliances are being formed to combat the increasing levels of cost and engineering involved in producing vehicles for a new generation of buyers. Ford and Volkswagen also revealed that the two are exploring joint development of mobility services, EV and autonomous vehicles with this particular move designed to help save both companies billions …

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Is It Really Worth Giving Your ID For a GAC Motor Press Kit? We Find Out, Part 1 of a Two Part Series (Video)

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Amid all the glitz and glamour that defines the North American International Auto Show, one particular company has stood out over the years, GAC. GAC (or Trumpchi as their cars are known in China) is a Chinese automotive company that has bold plans for the U.S. market in the near future. Unlike other auto companies and suppliers here at the 2019 North American International Auto Show, GAC insists that you give them your business card or other form of ID before they give you one of their press kits. But is the cost of a slice of your identity really …

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Hyundai Unleashes N-Line Range With All New Elantra GT N-Line

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We are big fans of the Hyundai Veloster N and it is no secret that we were eager to see what the N-brand had up its sleeve when it first made its U.S. debut back in 2018. But what if you are a performance minded buyer that wants some of the charm and appeal that the N Brand has to offer, but might not have the pocketbook needed to sign on the dotted line for a fire breathing Veloster N? Hyundai has unveiled an interesting alternative with the all new Elantra GT N-Line. While this new model is still not …

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2020 Toyota Supra Officially Breaks Cover, 335 Horsepower and $49k MSRP Are Compelling Combination

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When it comes to the saga surrounding the 2020 Toyota Supra, it was a classic example of what could happen when a company’s attempt at keeping something so valuable and secret under wraps goes so horribly wrong. Quickly becoming the worst kept secret in recent memory, the endless torrent of leaks brought many aspects of the Supra to the masses early (much to the chagrin of Toyota officials.) But at long last, the 2020 Toyota Supra has OFFICIALLY debuted, and as Toyota CEO Akira Toyoda mentioned in his remarks to the assembled media this morning, “Good things come to those …

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Lexus Showcases 2020 RC F & Limited Production RC F Track Edition Ahead of NAIAS

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In a world where it seems SUVs are out to take over everything that the automobile stands for, Lexus has decided to buck the trend for NAIAS 2019, and instead has chosen Detroit to debut a trio of new cars. In addition to the fore-mentioned LC Convertible concept, Lexus is also debuting much needed updates to the 2020 Lexus RC F, as well as the limited edition RC F Track Edition in an attempt to make the RC F a true contender to some of the best that Germany and Italy have to offer.   2020 Lexus RC F: Before …

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2019 RAM HD Lineup Boasts 1,000 lb ft of Torque Among Suite Of Updates

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Ahead of its highly anticipated debut at the 2019 North American International Auto Show tomorrow, Ram has released images and information regarding the 2019 Ram 2500 and 3500 HD lineup, and after having a chance to look over some of the specs that Ram has posted in its press release. It’s clear that Ram engineers are truly going for broke when it comes to outdoing their domestic rivals in sheer capability, technology, and refinement. Before we get into some of the other aspects that define the 2019 lineup, lets take a moment to look at arguably the most defining thing …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Honda Pilot Elite – By Carl Malek

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The race for supremacy in the mid-size SUV segment has never been as hotly contested as it has been over the past few years. A strong push in sales and a rapid shift in demand from U.S. customers has forced many automakers to step up their game in catering to the ever evolving needs of a new generation of families. But can even benchmark entries standout against a growing pool of mid-size SUV offerings? To find out, we spent some time with the 2018 Honda Pilot to see if this venerable Honda can still maintain its winning ways in this …

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Cadillac Unveils Three Row 2020 XT6 CUV Ahead of NAIAS

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With the ferocity unseen by the brand in recent years, the once car focused Cadillac has rapidly revamped and expanded its lineup of utility offerings. Once territory that was occupied most successfully by the Cadillac Escalade (review pending,) the luxury brand has added the XT4 and the XT5 in its arsenal to try and allow it to expand its reach in the hotly contested CUV segment. But a void always existed between the XT5 and the Escalade, and Cadillac has addressed this by unveiling its newest XT badged offering, the 2020 Cadillac XT6. When its exterior styling is looked over …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring – By Carl Malek

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With the 2019 Mazda CX-5 waiting in the wings with its all new turbocharged four cylinder engine, and a whole host of refinement updates, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 has the unenviable task of holding down the fort and maintaining the strong legacy that the model has built for itself since it made its first appearance several years ago. But the SUV and CUV wars are changing at a rapid fire pace with seemingly a new model being unveiled almost every week. But can the 2018 CX-5 succeed in its minor but jey supporting role? Or will the 2019 CX-5 have …

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Lexus Raises Ante On LC Luxury With All New LC Convertible Concept

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It’s no secret that Lexus has been wanting a large convertible since the demise of the SC convertible. The last production car to boast a standard tape cassette player brought open top luxury in a comfortable and roomy package that has been missed by some Lexus owners since it was axed. The LC coupe made a splash three years ago when it debuted at the North American International Auto Show, but its sleek and futuristic design seemed incomplete without a drop top conversion. Lexus has answered this calling by formally unveiling the LC convertible Concept ahead of its debut next …

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Ford Unveils 2020 Explorer, Rear Wheel Drive and New Technology Breathe New Life Into Iconic Nameplate

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Ford has alot riding on the chiseled shoulders of the 2020 Ford Explorer. With the company’s recent all in bet on utility vehicles being the future, as well as its rapidly evolving views on mobility tech, the Explorer has to cater to a wider swath of customers. Based on our first look at the 2020 Ford Explorer during its unveiling at Ford Field, it appears that Ford has a winner on its hands. The exterior styling of the 2020 Ford Explorer has alot of similarities with the current generation Explorer, and that is completely intentional. The Explorer is one of …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Mazda 6 Signature – By Carl Malek

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When an automotive enthusiast looks at the 2018 Mazda 6 Signature, quiet and refined may not be the first characteristics that come to mind. This is partially due to prior generation Mazda 6 models, which boasted commendable levels of performance, but with much more noise than many of its rivals. The 2018 Mazda 6 aims to exorcise this image, but without ruining the basic delectable bits that lurked beyond the high decibel levels. But can the 2018 Mazda 6 pull off this trick? Or does it still fall short of being a true disrupter to mid-size sedan icons like the …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Lexus GS 350 (AWD) – By Carl Malek

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The mid-size luxury sedan market is undergoing subtle but key changes in a bid to allow it to stay truly distinct from the onslaught of CUV and SUV entries that are draining sales away like an old school medical leech draining blood from a hospital patient. While the BMW 5-Series, Audi A6, and the Mercedes E-Class still remain the bench marking trilogy at the top of the segment, other automakers have not given up trying their best to topple these established icons. One of these marques is Lexus, with their GS series sedan. The GS was crafted towards style, and …

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2020 Land Rover Defender Returning to U.S. Market, Ends 22 Year Drought [Video]

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Information about the 2020 Land Rover Defender has been scarce, with Land Rover holding its cards close to its velvet lined vest, and the world only getting glimpses via spy photos of prototypes, as well as Land Rover’s teaser images. The luxury off-road SUV maker has changed that however, and has released some new bits of information thst should prove particularly pleasing to U.S. consumers.   The big item here is that the Defender will be returning to the U.S. marketplace, with the model last being sold here in the mid 1990s. The Defender was pulled from our shores in …

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Best & Worst of 2018 – Michigan Edition – By Carl Malek

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Amid the fading days of Christmas, and the impending arrival of 2019 fast approaching, it is once again time to reflect on some of the good & not so good things that defined 2018. While the political rollercoaster that Washington has been riding lately has been a dominant theme for this year, we here at the Car-Revs-Daily Metro Detroit office have had a busy year too, which included the arrival of several unique automobiles to our northern testing grounds. Before we dive into the Best and Worst categories, a brief recap of the rules. Eligibility opens in the first week …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – By Carl Malek

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When we last met the Mitsubishi Outlander, it was in its base 2.4 liter form and it proved to be a very reliable steed, with the one we had impressing us with its Prius like fuel economy on a summer road trip from our Metro Detroit office to Wisconsin for a press association event. But what if your an SUV buyer who thinks even this insane display of fuel economy isn’t enough for your needs? Mitsubishi has you covered with the all new Outlander PHEV. But does it retain some of the subtle charms that allowed its four cylinder counterpart …

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Morgan Shelves V8 Engine, Teases The Future In New Teaser Video [Video]

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It is not too often that we hear from our friends at Morgan. The bespoke British sports car maker has won over our hearts with their unique and iconic interpretation of what a proper British sports car should be. However, even Morgan has to occasionally adapt to the ever changing marketplace, and it has done so by ditching the V8 engine for good, and preparing a bold surprise for a future generation of Morgan enthusiasts (this eager author included.) While the outgoing Plus 8 and Aero 8 models are the only two V8 Morgan models in the stable for right …

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Lincoln Showcases Continental 80th Anniversary Edition, Brings Back Suicide Doors

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Following a brief teaser campaign that started on Lincoln’s Instagram page, and quickly backfired on the luxury brand when a lone image of the car leaked to the masses on its own Facebook page. Lincoln has formally unveiled a limited production version of the Continental sedan, which brings suicide doors (aka coach doors in Lincoln speak) back onto a mass market luxury offering for the first time in over 60 years. Formally dubbed the Continental 80th Anniversary Coach Door Edition, this special Continental revives the stylish center opening doors that first made waves back in 1961, when they debuted on …

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Lincoln Teasing Return of Center Opening Suicide Doors?

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The reborn Lincoln Continental has taken its lumps recently, with the flagship sedan suffering from the combination of declining sedan sales, and the spike in CUV and SUV demand. That isn’t stopping Lincoln from teasing what could be the return of an iconic feature to the Continental that would be a bold effort at bringing more exclusivity, heritage, and distinctive design touches to its luxury laden four door just in time for the 2020 model year.   The seemingly innocent post on the company’s Instagram page starts out as the typical Throwback Thursday post, with a shout out to the …

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2020 Toyota Supra Spied Camo Free And Ready For Detroit

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As mentioned in our prior coverage surrounding the 2020 Toyota Supra, it has become perhaps the worst kept secret in automotive history. A figurative torrent of leaks and spy photos has unleashed various aspects of the upcoming sports car to the masses (much to Toyota’s displeasure.) But amid all of this, the Supra always managed to keep its production sheet metal away from prying eyes, until now, with a lone photo prematurely revealing the final front fascia design of the revamped, and vastly improved Toyota Supra ahead of its Detroit debut in January.   Enthusiasts that were wondering whether the …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label – By Carl Malek

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When Lincoln revamped the Navigator full-sized SUV for 2018, they had a lot of ground to make up. Once an innovator in the full size luxury SUV segment when it first made its debut in 1998, the big Lincoln generated a lot of attention, and even inspired Cadillac to make its own entry, the Cadillac Escalade. However, the Navigators that followed failed to maintain this initial momentum, with the situation growing increasingly dire in 2015 when the refreshed third generation Navigator appeared. Lacking the precision and attention to detail that had become a staple of the fore-mentioned Escalade, that iteration …

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Lexus Teases Hotter RC F Track Edition Ahead of NAIAS

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Toyota and Lexus are pulling out all the stops when it comes to performance vehicles at the 2019 North American International Auto Show. In addtion to the worst kept secret in the industry today (the revived Toyota Supra,) Lexus has teased its own performance king, the 2020 RC F Track Edition ahead of the glitz and glamor that will descend on the Motor City in 2019.   Unlike the Supra, the upcoming RC F Track Edition has done a much better job eluding detection, thus fine details surrounding the bulk of its exterior styling are still unknown. What we do …

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Chevrolet Unveils Beefier, Revamped 2020 Silverado HD

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Chevrolet has been keen on reasserting itself in the heavy duty truck segment. With Ford’s Super Duty lineup still at the pinnacle of the segment, and the redesigned 2019 Ram 1500 stealing the spotlight ahead of the reveal of its own HD big brother. Chevy had to act quickly to keep pace, and has unveiled the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado HD ahead of its February debut.   The exterior of the new Silverado HD will undoubtedly be the first thing that many buyers will notice when they lay eyes on the Silverado HD. Chevy claims that the bodywork is largely exclusive …

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Lincoln Unveils 2020 Aviator, Second Attempt Brings New Tech, Flair To Luxury SUV Market

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Lincoln is out to up its presence in the utility segment and while entries such as the Navigator, Nautilus, and MKC have helped spearhead this effort, a notable omission void has always existed between the Navigator and the Nautilus. Lincoln is out to solve that problem, and has unveiled the 2020 Lincoln Aviator to not only pump some juice back into the segment, but also showcasing the next step in Lincoln’s broader transformation plan. While the Aviator in its current form is all new, the reappearance of the moniker is actually the second attempt Lincoln has made to try and …

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Hyundai Unveils Luxurious Three Row Palisade In L.A.

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Following a very meticulous teaser campaign that revealed an all new Hyundai three row SUV was indeed in the works to replace the long running and outgoing Santa Fe XL (as well as a sneak peek we received at a recent company event,) the Korean car giant has finally confirmed what many had suspected, the arrival of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade. The exterior styling of the Palisade is still very utilitarian, but Hyundai designers managed to incorporate plenty of lines and curves into the design. This is especially apparent in the front and rear fascias, with these areas featuring the …

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Mazda Goes All In With 2019 Mazda 3, Adds AWD For First Time Ever

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The current Mazda 3 is already a very impressive offering in the compact car segment. Combining seductive styling with impressive performance hardware and surprising levels of technology, the 3 has emerged as a very viable entry in a segment that is facing pressure from CUV entries. So how do you make an already good thing even better? By making changes and updates where it maters the most.   It all starts with the all new platform which allows the 2019 version to be slightly lower and longer than before, with the wheelbase being stretched by a full inch. In a …

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Honda Formally Unveils Passport SUV, Revives Legendary Nameplate For A New Generation Of Buyers

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Honda is a company of many talents, but the one thing it lacked for the longest time was a proper mid-size two row crossover to slot between the CR-V and the larger Pilot SUV. The Japanese auto giant has punched its figurative passport so to speak, and has unveiled the model that will take it to this vaunted chunk of the CUV progress, the 2019 Honda Passport. At first glance, the Passport is indeed what it appears to be, a shrunken Honda Pilot, with the distinctively Pilot themed nose adding to that theme. However, the stance is perkier, and lacks …

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2020 Genesis G90 Revealed, Brings Massive Design Changes To Consumers

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When the Genesis G90 first appeared on the scene, it was a spirited contender that helped spearhead the launch of the Genesis sub-brand, and proved to be a big hit at the Car-Revs-Daily offices as well due to its bold styling and its Ripleys Believe It or Not-esque pricing. But maturity hits us all at some point, and the G90 receives a big injection of it for 2020 to help it keep up with many of its rivals including the Mercedes Benz S-Class. While it’s technically a refresh that Genesis has done, the design changes here will undoubtedly have the …

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First Drive Review – 2018 Hyundai Kona EV Ultimate – By Carl Malek

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With the recent pummeling that much of the tech market has endured on Wall Street in recent months, it’s comforting to know that things are still going strong in the electric vehicle segment. Once regarded as mere science experiments over 20 years ago, the EV has rapidly emerged as a leading force in the broader automotive marketplace. This is mainly due to the emergence of Tesla, but other automakers have followed suit, and have developed EV entries of their own to try and follow Tesla’s rapid rise to success in this arena. Hyundai’s Kona EV aims to be the latest …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE 6MT – By Carl Malek

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With the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro currently rolling into showrooms, the 1LE package is expected to play a much more promient role in Chevrolet’s long term sales plans. From the beefy V8 powered 1LE, to the introduction of the all new four cylinder 1LE, track ready performance has never been so readily accessible. But is the 1LE in its basic formula a solid all rounder for eager enthusiasts?

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Nissan CEO Ghosn Arrested For Alleged Misconduct

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In a surprising and remarkable tumble from grace over the weekend, Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn (along with a second executive) was arrested by Japanese authorities for his role in alleged misconduct with Nissan preparing to fire Ghosn later this week. Ghosn is accused of several acts of financial misconduct which include underreporting his salary to Japanese authorities for “multiple years,” as well as using company assests for personal use. The investigation into Ghosn and Greg Kelly (a director on Nissan’s board) began after an annonymus whistleblower reported the allegations to Japanese authorities.   The downfall of Ghosn and his regime …

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Toyota Goes All In With 2020 Corolla, Promises To Revamp Driving Experience For Buyers

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Toyota’s Corolla sedan has emerged into a powerhouse for the Japanese automaker, with over 40 million units sold since the Corolla first entered production. However, all of this success and good fortune masks a car that has always never been known for its fun mannerisms, instead, preferring to be known as a dependable albeit bland piece of transportation that aims to get the job done and not much else. With the compact car segment still a viable segment in the marketplace, Toyota couldn’t afford to sit on its heels, and has thrown everything into the 2020 Corolla to try and …

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Honda Teases Rugged and Capable 2019 Passport SUV Ahead of L.A. Debut

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Honda’s versatile SUV and CUV lineup currently offers buyers five distinct choices to choose from, but later this month, they will be joined by a sixth entrant that not only brings back an iconic moniker to the scene after several decades, but also the versatility and off road prowess that has been noticeably absent from Honda lineup, the 2019 Honda Passport.   We will admit, the first teasers that Honda released don’t show much to the untrained eye, with the Passport’s rear end obscured by a plume of tire generated dirt, and a brief video segment of the Passport tackling …

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2020 Kia Soul Teaser Shows Familiar Shape Ahead of L.A. Debut

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Kia is keen on getting into the spirit of things ahead of the L.A. Auto Show later this month, and with Hyundai preparing a big reveal of their own, the youthful Korean car brand wanted to make sure the revamped Soul did not get lost in the all the glitz and glamour that the L.A. Auto Show is expected to bring when it kicks off later this month.   The lone teaser that Kia released earlier today may not reveal very much at first glance, but the image does reveal that the Soul’s trademark boxy shape will largely be retained, …

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Is Meguiars The Brand To Use? We Put It To The Test To Find Out

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Just like how the world of cars has evolved over the years, the landscape of products designed to help take care of your ride has also undergone a radical transformation over the past few years. When we last ventured into this genre, it was to take a look at the SunJoe SPX 3000 power washer. Designed to help bring a more environmentally friendly punch to detailing your car, our tester “Mike” performed admirably, but it only was a compelling glimpse into the world of cleaning your car. To get the full story, we got in touch with our friends at …

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Hyundai Confirms Palisade Name For New Three Row SUV Ahead of LA Auto Show Debut

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Hyundai has so far kept a very tight veil of secrecy surrounding its new 3-row flagship SUV with only a few light teasers, and a preceding concept hinting at its existence, but with LA fast approaching, the Korean car giant has finally confirmed a small slice of information, and revealed the official name for this very important utility offering, Palisade.   Depending on who you ask, the Palisade moniker is derived from a whole swath of inspiration. According to Hyundai, the name is inspired not only by a series of coastal cliffs, but also the strength of an ancient fortress. …

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Toyota Considers Axing Slow Selling Models Amid Uncertain Economic Future

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With the trade war between the U.S. and China still squeezing the broader economy as a whole, the resulting pressure has forced automakers to prepare for a possible weakening in the global market scene. General Motors recently offered some of its salaried employees buyouts, and amid the cloud of uncertainty generated by this move, it appears things have shifted into another gear, with Toyota perhaps axing dead weight from its U.S. model lineup.   While crucial nameplates such as the Camry, Avalon, and RAV4 will avoid the gulliotine thanks to their high sales figures, and their impressive reputations among various …

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Hyundai and Kia Unveil Solar Panel Boosted EV Charging Solution, Expected To Appear In 2020

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Once limited to experimental vehicles and ultra luxury hybrids, roof mounted solar panels are seeing a resurgence as EVs slowly become a more focal piece of the automotive landscape. Hyundai and Kia aim to take them to production reality by unveiling their plans to put them on production cars in a move that could have big ramifications for the broader automotive market as a whole.   Of course, a key caveat is that they will not be on all production vehicles, with Hyundai and Kia claiming that only “selected vehicles” will be able to be outfitted with them. When the …

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Toyota Confirms NAIAS Debut For Revived Supra Sports Car

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With arguably the worst kept secret in not only 2018, but also perhaps in automotive history, Toyota revealed that it plans to introduce the production version of the 2020 Supra at the 2019 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Supra is the long awaited return of an icon which not only served as the pinnacle of the performance rush that fueled the Japanese auto industry in the 1990’s, but also inspired a generation of enthusiasts, thanks in no part to its multiple appearances in the Fast and the Furious movie franchise, as well as numerous Need for Speed video …

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Kia Unveils 201 Horsepower 2020 Forte GT, At Last Our Prayers Have Been Answered

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When we last met the 2019 Kia Forte, it was navigating the twist and turns of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The mountain roads that dotted our route highlighted the Forte’s new chassis, as well as the spirited character that defined its exterior and interior design. Sadly, a lack of power was also evident, and it had us wondering “Where’s the Beef?” Well it appears Kia has been listening to this persistent criticism, and has at last given the Forte a proper engine to formally tango with its reworked bones, as well as a new trim the Forte GT, Living up to its …

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Acura Reveals 345 Horsepower RDX GRP Concept To Kick Off SEMA 2018

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Acura is celebrating the annual SEMA show in Las Vegas by rolling out an army of Acura products from the past and the present. While the NSX will certainly draw stares with its gorgeous physique and the unearthly levels of performance that is generated from its hybrid infused powertrain, one particular recruit could foreshadow an all new performance oriented trim for the venerable RDX SUV if it eventually makes its way into formal production. Dubbed the RDX GRP, Acura partnered with Graham Rahal Performance to craft this special SUV. Starting life as a stock A-Spec model, GRP made a number …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Ford Mustang GT Performance Package 2 – By Carl Malek [Video]

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The Rivalry, no we’re not talking about the annual Michigan vs Michigan State football game (a semi-official holiday here in the Metro Detroit office.) Rather, it’s the equally legendary rivalry between the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro. Both of these pony cars have been slugging it out with each other since the 1960s, with the duo constantly trying to outdo each other in style, performance and innovation. Recently, we had the opportunity to explore both sides of this rivalry with the Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE (review) and the subject of our attention this week, the 2018 Ford Mustang GT …

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2020 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 Leaked Ahead of Unveiling [ Video]

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When we last saw the 2020 Ford Shelby Mustang, it was initially from above, with not much standing out other than its basic shape, and the fact it has a very lovely looking roof. Later teaser pics were released, but again not much could be ascertained. However, a smuggled in smartphone, and a resulting post on Instagram, has given the world a compelling early glimpse at Ford’s most venomous pony, the 2020 Ford Shelby Gt500 Mustang. Published (but not taken…..allegedly) by Instagram user Sinister_Lifestyle, the duet of pics does shed some light on what is in store for the upcoming …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Audi TT-RS – By Carl Malek

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It’s not too often that we get the rare and unique opportunity to experience an RS badged Audi. Serving as the penultimate performance model for the bulk of the Audi lineup (R8 excluded,) these special models aim to bring even higher levels of performance, sophistication, and technology to the lucky clientele that are able to add one of these models to their dream garage. One of these offerings is the 2018 Audi TT-RS which brings the RS formula to the brand’s venerable two seat sports coupe. But can this latest chapter of TT-RS finally bring the cohesion and full spectrum …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Kia Niro Touring – By Carl Malek

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When we last met the Kia Niro in Metro Detroit, it was back in 2017, in its base EX trim which aimed to not only deliver buyers a compelling CUV in a rapidly growing segment of the marketplace, but also the hybrid fueled efficency that is a key draw for green minded buyers. While it certainly suceeded in delivering on both of these fronts, it lacked the style and aesthetic flair to truly stand out against segment rivals. Kia aims to solve this problem with the Touring model, but does the Touring have what it takes to inject some much …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate (AWD)

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Hyundai is in a state of change these days. The Korean car company once known for having a near exclusive lineup of car entries is in the middle of rapidly transforming its utility vehicle lineup. Things got off to a great start with the Hyundai Kona CUV, which is proving to be a successful entry for Hyundai in a rapidly growing chunk of the CUV market. Now the company is setting its sights on bigger rivals with the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, but can this heavily revised Santa Fe repeat the Kona’s quick climb to stardom?  Or is it still …

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Spied: 2020 RAM 2500 & 3500

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Ram engineers have been hard at work fine tuning the 2020 Ram 2500 and 3500 to combat rivals such as the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra HD twins, as well as the iconic Ford Super Duty lineup. Based on our recent sighting, it looks like things are progressing quite nicely on that front.   Spotted undergoing freeway testing in Northern Michigan, these heavily camoflauged testers are hiding the bulk of their styling from prying eyes, but look for the 2500 and 3500 to channel much of the 1500’s aesthetic influence, albeit with tweaked lighting elements including bigger reverse lamp inserts. …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Jaguar XF Sportbrake S AWD – By Carl Malek

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When the second generation XF sedan made its debut back in 2016, it brought a more refined suit of clothes to the big cat, as well as a duet of delightfully pleasurable all new four cylinder engines to the mix. Combined with a redone interior, Jaguar hoped that the XF would be able to claw its way to the top of the luxury sport sedan segment once and for all. However, the XF ended up being a tiny drop in a very big ocean dominated by entries from Germany and Asia, and thus, its impact was decidedly less noticeable. Jaguar …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Toyota Corolla SE – By Carl Malek

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When it comes to offering buyers a reliable four door sedan that can safely haul people and cargo from one place to another, one venerable nameplate has always stood out among compact car buyers, the Toyota Corolla. While the bulk of the changes for 2018 are focused on its new hatchback sibling (which we tested a short while ago,) the sedan still soldiers on for 2018 with very minimal changes. But can this infusion of minimalist themed updates allow the aging Corolla to still maintain its iron grip on top of the compact sedan segment? Or is it time for …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn 4×4 – By Carl Malek

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Ram has always had a unique niche in the pickup truck wars. With Ford and Chevrolet slugging it out in both sales and marketing, Ram has embraced its role as a disrupter that always manages to shake up the marketplace with creative surprise tactics. A notable example was back in 1994 when the artist formerly known as the Dodge Ram 1500 ditched the boxy squared look of past pickups, and adopted a big-rig esque look with aerodynamically honed curves. Naturally, Ford and Chevrolet followed suit, but the Ram managed to continue this trend time and time again in other ways, …

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Chevrolet Scorches The Trail With AEV Bred ZR2 Bison

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The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 already has alot going for it. Serving as GM’s latest and perhaps most successful attempt at toppling the Toyota Tacoma Pro from its segment leading status, the burly ZR2 brings trick Multimatic DSSV shocks, and a optional diesel engine to appeal to a broader off-road audience that only demands the best from their ruggedly built purchase. But what if your a Colorado buyer that craves just a bit more capability from your ZR2 purchase? Chevrolet has you covered with the burlier and all new 2019 ZR2 Bison.   Crafted with the help of American Expedition Vehicles (AEV,) …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Toyota Prius C – By Carl Malek

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The green car segment has seen its fair share of twists and turns over the past several years. While Tesla currently has the spotlight when it comes to pure EV offerings, Toyota and its Prii range in particular are considered by many to be the benchmark offerings in the hybrid vehicle segment. The Japanese auto giant doubled down on hybrids in the mid 1990’s with the original Prius, much to the astonishment and the occasional snicker of a few of its domestic competitors. That initial gambit has transformed into a lucrative business, with the Prii lineup redefining green car culture …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Hyundai Accent Limited – By Carl Malek

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Like two sides of a coin, the 2018 Kia Rio and the 2018 Hyundai Accent have very important roles to play for their respective brands. Both offer an affordable gateway to their respective lineups, they are small, and each also offer their buyers a unique experience that drives home the mission of their respective identities. When we last spent time in the 2018 Kia Rio, we loved the Rio’s spunk and its value oriented pricing. Can the same magic apply to its more upscale corporate sibling, the Hyundai Accent? Or is it still overshadowed by the popular Elantra? Wheras the …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Kia Forte EX – By Carl Malek

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It’s no secret that the Kia Forte has proven to be a key cog in Kia’s long term plan of revising its image. Once known for being an offering that thrived on being cheap and cheerful when it was released nearly a decade ago, the Forte has morphed into an intriguing compact sedan offering. When we last met the Forte, it was late last year, and while it had some good things going for it, the car was aging quickly against entries like the Honda Civic and the Ford Focus. Kia plans to reverse all that with the 2019 Forte, …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Kia Rio EX – By Carl Malek

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In a world where pickup trucks, SUVs, and crossovers have become the dominant players in the quest for supremacy, it is easy to forget that the sub-compact segment is still a vital battlefield for automakers. lWhile the subcompact range has undergone some shrinkage recently, there are still a diverse cast of entries vying for buyer attention. One of these is the 2018 Kia Rio, which aims to bring some youthful vibes and sensible frugality into Kia’s rapidly changing lineup of cars. But can the Rio take advantage of the impending departure of the benchmark Ford Fiesta, and steal some extra …

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Luxury Flagship Comparison – 1st Place – 2018 Cadillac CT6 Platinum – By Carl Malek

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When we first started this comparison series, three flagship luxury sedans entered the fray, but ultimately, only one emerged with the coveted first place slot. The 2018 Genesis G90 and the 2018 Lexus LS 500 F-Sport gave it there all in a wide range of categories, but in the end it, was ultimately the CT6 that had what it takes to emerge victorious. The exterior styling of our 2018 tester (2019 models arrive with updated styling elements) is the latest interpretation of Cadillac’s Art & Science language, and the execution is a bit jumbled. The front fascia is bold, but …

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Luxury Flagship Comparison – 2nd Place – 2018 Genesis G90 3.3T – By Carl Malek

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Genesis has certainly hit its stride over the past few years. Models like the G80 (a rebadged Hyundai Genesis) as well as the recently unveiled G70 sport sedan have helped the young luxury brand ascend to new heights since it was first introduced to the world in 2015. This surprising emergence, as well as the G90’s ambitions to topple luxury flagship benchmarks, helped it earn an invitation to our Luxury Flagship Comparison challenge to see if it could measure up to its two rivals the 2018 Lexus LS 500, and the Cadillac CT6. The exterior styling of our tester still …

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Luxury Flagship Comparison – 3rd Place – 2018 Lexus LS 500 F-Sport – By Carl Malek [Video]

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With the recent swath of new luxury flagship sedans that have entered the marketplace, it can be very difficult to find which one is indeed the best fit for you and your budget. This tough choice helped serve as inspiration for our inaugural three way international luxury car comparison test. We assembled three of the most popular luxury flagship sedans and drove them side by side to help find which one is indeed best. The German benchmarks (BMW 7-Series, Mercedes S-Class, and Audi A8) were excluded, and instead we focused our attention on two new players (the Genesis G90 3.3T …

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Road Test Comparision – 2019 Volvo XC40 T5 R-Design AWD Versus 2018 Jaguar E-Pace – By Carl Malek

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When the Volvo XC40 was first unveiled to the world, it not only represented Volvo’s first formal entry into the small luxury CUV ranks, but it also came with a whole host of bold promises including  youthful appeal, a budget friendly pricing ladder, as well as a revolutionary subscription service. But can the Volvo XC40 indeed be the one to fulfill these promises, while also still succeeding at its root mission in the CUV ranks at the same time? At first glance, the XC40 certainly has the aesthetic goods to back it up. While the exterior canvas is distinctively Swedish, …

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Polaris Unveils Slingshot Grand Touring Trim, Updates For 2019 Lineup

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The Polaris Slingshot has certainly made waves since it was first unleashed on the world several years ago. It has done a good job turning heads wherever it goes, and has even played a role in revamping existing legislation on motorcycle licensing in many states (This author’s home state of Michigan included.) But are you the type of enthusiast that desires more comfort, technology, and a dash more practicality? If so, Polaris has the perfect Slingshot for you. Dubbed the “Grand Touring” this special Slingshot is the new range topping model in the Slingshot model lineup, with the SLR trim …

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Buick Reveals 2019 Regal Avenir

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Buick’s Regal lineup is shaping up to be an all round offering for buyers, and it has seen impressive growth since the original Sportback and TourX wagon made their respective debuts. Looking to further hone its identity, Buick has revealed that the Regal is next in line to receive the Avenir trim in a move to solidify its aim against rivals from Audi, BMW and Lexus, and boost sales in the wake of increased CUV demand. Making its debut on the Enclave, and more recently the Lacrosse sedan, the Avenir package brings a whole suite of luxury equipment and finesse …

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2019 F-150 Limited Recieves Raptor Power, Brings 450 Horsepower To Luxury Pickup Segnent

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Ever wondered what would happen if the Ford Raptor left its home in sandy terrain, and attended a high end cocktail party in its best tuxedo? Ford has delivered the answer to this tempting question with the newly updated 2019 F-150 Limited which brings more muscle and newfound luxury to the high end luxury pickup truck segment.   While the Limited does not have the bulk of the 4×4 technology that allows the Raptor to power through every river and climb every sand dune, Ford engineers did the next best thing, and gave it the Raptor’s potent heart. It comes …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross – By Carl Malek

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It has been quite a roller coaster ride for Mitsubishi over the past few years. Caught in the aftermath of an emissions scandal in Japan, as well as being a small time player in the U.S. market, the Japanese automaker entered into an alliance with Nissan-Renault in 2016. This partnership opened the path for Mitsubishi to potentially crawl its way back to relevance, but will the promised wave of new models and platforms be enough to bring Mitsubishi back into the light, or is it too little too late?   To find out, we got behind the wheel of the …

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Sergio Marchionne Steps Down, Michael Manley To Replace Him As CEO

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In a stunning development that is currently unfolding as we speak, longtime CEO of Ferrari and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Sergio Marchionne, is stepping down from his post due to ongoing medical issues. The 66 year old CEO recently had shoulder surgery three weeks ago, but “massive complications” following the surgery forced FCA’s board to make their move, though the company has not disclosed the extent of the medical complications, as well as Marchionne’s current condition. FCA did however issue a brief statement regarding today’s events stating “While Mr. Marchionne was recovering from surgery,” his health has “worsened significantly in recent …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec – By Carl Malek

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When we first drove the 2019 Acura RDX in Whistler, British Columbia, we immediately fell in love with its bold exterior styling, tech laden interior, as well as its potent performance hardware. But could the love affair last? and does the RDX finally have what it takes to truly take its bat and swing with the established players in the segment? To find out, we went behind the wheel of a second RDX in Wisconsin, to see if it could indeed handle U.S. roads. Like before, the exterior styling is undoubtedly Acura, but since the 2019 RDX is one of …

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2019 Acura MDX Debuts, Brings Nicer Interior, A-Spec Trim To Venerable Nameplate

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Following a major refresh that took place back in 2017, Acura’s MDX once again goes under the knife for 2019, and this latest freshening brings several key upgrades to consumers. With the 2019 RDX showcasing Acura’s latest interior design language, the bigger MDX takes a few pages out of its playbook, with noticeably upgraded interior materials. These include higher quality plastics, better leather seats with contrast stitching, and new wood trim selections including Desert Olive Ash accents. Technology and Entertainment package models feature a revised second row, which allows easier access to the third row accommodations. Another key change is …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Hyundai Kona – By Carl Malek

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Typically when it comes to small value focused cars, Hyundai has always been one of the front runners, and has largely done a good job catering to this still strong segment with offerings like the Elantra GT, the recently tested Hyundai Veloster, as well as the budget minded Hyundai Accent. However, in a curious twist of irony, the firm did not have a formal compact crossover entry to take advantage of this recently growing offshoot of the utility market. The 2018 Hyundai Kona aims to rectify that, but can the Kona’s youthful confidence allow it to standout in a segment …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander LE 2.4 S-AWC – By Carl Malek

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Let’s face it, crossovers and SUVs have become the new normal for many American families often serving as a replacement for the family sedan (oh how the times have changed.) However, amid the sea of established entries from the likes of Chevrolet, Hyundai, Toyota, and Ford one plucky underdog is still hanging in there, Mitsubishi. The company once known for performance cars (as well as being recently taken over by Nissan) is banking its future on being green, and finally embracing the utility vehicle sales trend. With the Eclipse Cross currently dominating the headlines, can the Asian firm’s other SUV …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Rolls Royce Wraith Black Badge – By Carl Malek

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When it comes to ultra British luxury cars only one brand has managed to generate a unique appeal and a sense of grandeur that has come to define its iconic history. That brand of course, is none other than Rolls Royce, which has always managed to steal the show in its own unique way. It’s most recent attention grabbing feat was a few years ago in 2016 when the brand unleashed a Rolls Royce Wraith Black Badge on the legendary Goodwood Festival of Speed. Placing sixth in the Supercar Run portion of the event, the Black Badge was a glimpse …

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2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Redeye Ushers In New Regime of Muscle [Video]

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2019 is shaping to be a big year for Dodge and its growing family of muscle car offerings. The highlight of course is the Dodge Challenger, and the new model year will bring more power and substance to this iconic two door as well as an all new range topper that is eager to carry on where the limited production Dodge Demon left off. The big story here is the all new range topping model the 797 horsepower Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye. This monster leaps to fill the gap left by the departing limited production Dodge Demon. This sinister vehicle …

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Aston Martin Unveils Sleek 2019 DBS Superleggera

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When it comes to defining the ultimate production Aston Martin, the DBS nameplate has always played a key role in distinguishing these special cars from the rest of the fold. The DBS moniker also means more performance, which is whats exactly in store for the newest chapter of DBS. Dubbed the DBS Superleggera, this DB11 based monster replaces the old Vanquish S and also resurrects the “Superleggera” moniker which has not been seen on a production Aston Martin for several decades. Aston Martin stylists added a larger hexagonal shaped front grille, as well as a tweaked lower bumper which is …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Jaguar E-Pace P300 R-Dynamic – By Carl Malek

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When the 2018 Jaguar E-Pace arrived on the scene, it brought a breeze of inevitability to the storied British luxury brand. Once known for stubbornly resisting the SUV craze with its car-centric lineup, and the erratic reliability that came along with it, Jaguar is making a serious push at being a true contender in the luxury automobile ranks. This included adopting SUVs into its ranks starting with the bigger F-Pace SUV. The F-Pace was a great first step, and it offered buyers a good blend of performance and capability. However, its large size also caused the F-Pace to not resonate …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Maserati Levante SQ4 – By Carl Malek

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It seems that the last few years have been the rise and zenith of the SUV. With low fuel prices and increased demand, even companies that were once known for being purely car focused are now getting in on the SUV craze. Maserati is one of these firms eager to take their own slice of the SUV pie. But can this stylish Italian entry truly succeed in helping Maserati pull a figurative upset against established luxury contenders? Or is it proof that Maserati still has alot to learn before taking on established SUV rivals like Land Rover and Porsche? To …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Ultimate – By Carl Malek

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When the first generation Veloster arrived on the scene several years ago, it was a symbol of Hyundai’s early foray into revamping the image of its overall product lineup. While the first generation Veloster did have a few rough edges and flaws underneath its slick skin, it nevertheless served as a compelling “reverse halo” offering that did bring in more young buyers. With the arrival of the second generation Veloster, Hyundai has made the usual assortment of updates and revisions to help the Veloster refine and hone its youthful swagger. Can this updated Veloster stand out in a segment that …

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Car Maintenance Product Review – SunJoe SPX3000 Pressure Washer – By Carl Malek [Video]

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With all of the vehicles that make there way in and out of the Car-Revs-Daily, it’s always a treat when something unique makes its way into our offices. That was exactly the case when the folks at SunJoe/SnowJoe reached out, and asked us to review their newest pressure washer offering. Can the all-electric SPX3000 succeed in being the perfect jack-of-all-trades offering? Or is it all washed up?   To find out, we unleashed our tester on a wide range of jobs at our office to see how it measured up in real world use. Before we could do that though, …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Dodge Durango SRT 392- Road Test Review – By Carl Malek

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In an era where fuel economy and a push for green technology are becoming paramount initiatives in the automotive industry, FCA and its SRT performance brand are still providing customers a lineup of vehicles that aim to defy political correctness, while also pushing the boundaries of performance even further. While the bulk of the spotlight is centered around the growing family of Hellcat powered offerings in its stable, as well as the limited production Dodge Demon, SRT has not forgotten about its other models. One of these is the 2018 Dodge Durango SRT which aims to transform an already competent …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Kia Stinger AWD 2.0T – By Carl Malek

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It’s no secret that Kia has undergone a transformation the past few years. Once known for making products that were cheap and not much else, the Korean car brand has now embraced a fresh new wave of substance, thanks to models such as the Optima, and the flagship K900 sedans. The newest member of the family is the 2018 Kia Stinger, which aims to compete with the best that Europe has to offer. But can the Stinger hold its own against benchmarks like the BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes C-Class? or does it lack the venom needed to make a …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE – By Carl Malek

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The legacy of Scion still continues to permeate throughout Toyota’s current lineup. The brand once known for its youthful swagger had a proverbial ace in the hole before Toyota pulled the plug several years ago. But can the newly rechristened Toyota CH-R hold its own in an increasingly crowded marketplace? or is it too little too late for a CUV that was supposed to be the shining star of a defunct past? The exterior styling of our tester certainly drew plenty of stares when viewed in the flesh. There’s alot going on in this busy canvas, and it all starts …

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Rolls Royce Unveils Bentayga Fighting Cullinan SUV

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Following three years of teasers, speculation, and spy shots, Rolls Royce has at long last unveiled its first ever SUV, the 2019 Rolls Royce Cullinan which aims to bring Bentayga fighting power, luxury, and opulence to the growing elite luxury SUV segment. Taking its name after the largest single diamond ever discovered on the planet, the Cullinan is a symbol of the future for Rolls Royce, which was once known for being exclusively a manufacturer of traditional automobiles. Even Rolls Royce officials realized that there was a sizable profit to be made in SUVs, and have adjusted accordingly by bringing …

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Aston Martin Unveils Limited Edition “V600” Vantage, Model Customer Commissioned Special

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With the all new 2019 Aston Martin Vantage slated to arrive in showrooms around the world in the near future, the long serving and aging previous generation Vantage will eventually be relegated to the pastures of retirement. But some Aston Martin customers were unhappy to hear that the newest Vantage will not feature (at least for now) a V12 engine. This unhappiness prompted Aston to take swift action, and they commissioned a limited run of “V600” variant Vantages to send off the 2018 version with a bang. The “V600” designation is nothing new for Aston, with the moniker first appearing …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Volvo V90 Inscription – By Carl Malek

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The idea of looking to the past has always been a long enduring trend. In the automotive world, the massive glut of SUV and CUV offerings can make folks forget that long before those two segments rose up to smother the utility vehicle market, another brand of utility reigned supreme. We’re of course talking about the venerable station wagon, which has endured various twists and bends in its iconic existence. However, like the endangered White Rhinoceros, these vehicles are straddling the line between relevance and extinction in the U.S. with only a small handful of models remaining. One of these …

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Dodge Teases 2019 Challenger Hellcat

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The Dodge Challenger Hellcat (and its four door cousin the Charger Hellcat) have been a sales success for Dodge, with the duo finding immense popularity with a new generation of performance enthusiasts (we have lost count of how many we regularly see in Metro Detroit.) Like all good things though, the Challenger is due for a mid-cycle refresh, and Dodge has unveiled the first teaser image hinting at big things for the updated Hellcat. Before we get to the good stuff, one small bit of bad news. The insanely powerful and utterly bonkers Dodge Demon will not be making an …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe RST – By Carl Malek

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Remember when sport SUVS once ruled the automotive landscape? Indeed in the 90’s and early 2000’s there was a period in time when these muscle bound behemoths were the proverbial jewels in the pocket books of the Detroit Big Three. But once gas prices rose, and the economic recession took hold, the segment went out with a whimper, and nearly disappeared. With a new era of cheap oil and a revived interest in SUVs, the segment has bounced back, and has produced a new crop of entries. One of these is the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe RST, but can this new …

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Road Test Review- 2018 Mazda 3 Grand Touring (Sedan) – By Carl Malek

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What makes the Mazda 3 such a good value in the compact car segment? It’s stylish good looks are definitely a good start along with an interior that has always offered occupants a near premium driving experience. But with many of its rivals either upping their aesthetic game, or offering more performance and fundamental value. Can the 2018 Mazda 3 keep up with the changing landscape while still offering the compelling DNA that keeps Mazda loyalists coming back for more? To find out, we revisited this old favorite to see for ourselves if the Mazda 3 has aged into a …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Audi Q7 3.0T – By Carl Malek

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With the way crossover entries have evolved over the past several decades, automakers are scrambling to keep more established entries relevant as the segment rapidly evolves. One of these is the venerable Audi Q7 which is the biggest and most opulent (for the moment) entry fielded by the German luxury car giant. When it first appeared in the U.S. back in 2007, it represented a seismic shift for Audi, and turned the once car focused brand into a more balanced juggernaut. As for the Q7, it was a key entry in Volkswagen’s greater ploy towards expanding its diesel lineup. This …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Genesis G80 3.3T Sport – By Carl Malek

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With all the buzz surrounding the Genesis G90 flagship sedan, as well as the recent news the brand made during its appearance at the New York Auto Show. It can be easy to forget about Genesis’s other sedan offering, the G80. Originally starting its run as the Hyundai Genesis, the launch of the new brand forced the luxury laden Hyundai to transform into the newly renamed G80, and up its luxury and performance credentials at the same time. But can the G80 still stand out from not only the bigger G90 sedan? but also a field of opulent entries? or …

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