Hyundai Goes Big On Space With All New Ioniq 9

Hyundai’s push into the electric vehicle wars has been very impressive with the company already releasing the Ioniq 5 and 6 with the duo being rolling examples of Hyundai’s advanced EV technology in action. But while both of these models deliver the goods when it comes to competing against their respective rivals, the one thing that the EV lineup as a whole lacked was an offering that could be a true family hauler like the gas-powered Palisade.  Hyundai is out to rectify that problem with the all-new Ioniq 9 which will be the first attempt that Hyundai has made into …

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5 Things to Know About the 2024 Kia EV6 GT

1. It’s fast.The numbers are gargantuan – press the neon green GT button on the wheel, and it calls up 576 horsepower and 545 lb.-ft of torque. 0-60 mph in a jaw-dropping 3.4 seconds! 2. Range is up for 2024Anything that reduces range anxiety is good by us. The GT is now rated at an EPA-estimated 218 miles of all-electric range – an improvement of 12 miles over the 2023 EV6 GT. Not the furthest, but certainly livable. 3. It even charges fastWith a 350 kW DC fast charger, you go from 10-80% battery charge in just 18 minutes. A …

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Hyundai Gives Elantra N The Wing Treatment With New TCR Edition

Hyundai’s Elantra N is the proverbial bad boy in the affordable performance vehicle segment. Its spunky 270 hp four-cylinder engine and race-ready good looks have made it one of the best values in the segment today. But what if you’re a buyer who thinks all of this is not enough and you want something that’s even closer to the track-ready script without the whole process of not making it street-legal? Hyundai thinks it has found the proverbial middle ground with the all-new Elantra N TCR Edition which adds a new halo model to the Elantra range and also hints at …

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2024 Kia EV6 GT review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the 640 horse, Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and marveled at its jaw-dropping performance. But there’s another super-hot EV in the Kia/Hyundai family, and it’s the Kia EV6 GT. It’s a little more Grand Touring than out -and-out sports car, but with 576 horsepower, it’s got plenty of thrills to serve up. So, what’s Kia’s performance flagship like? Let’s check it out! Sleek Style Any trim of the EV6 is a handsome vehicle, and it’s interesting that for its performance flagship, Kia has kept things subtle – You’d be hard pressed to know this is the GT versus …

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2024 Acura ZDX A-Spec Review: Teamwork Makes the EV Dream Work

As the saying goes, what’s old is new again. Case in point: the new Acura ZDX A Spec. It’s not that the vehicle itself is old—it’s more that the way this vehicle came to market. 1996 was a year chock-full of optimism, with Americans everywhere doing the Macarena as they poured their life savings into the can’t-miss investment vehicle known as Beanie Babies. Cheap gas allowed sales of the newly defined SUV market to surge. Everyone, everywhere, was scrambling to get into one of these fancy-ish trucks, and perhaps more importantly, OEMs the world over were scrambling to get their …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Volkswagen GTI 380 – Goodbye Manual, You’ll Be Missed

The Volkswagen GTI (aka Golf GTI if you’re willing to travel back into the past) is a hot hatch that has withstood the ravages of time and has always been one of the few performance vehicles on the market to offer buyers budget-friendly performance and a manual transmission to row through the gears. However, Volkswagen is changing the status quo and confirmed that the 2024 model will be the last year buyers can get a manual before Volkswagen pitches it in favor of an automatic. However, the company is not letting the stick go with a whimper, but is instead …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Lexus RX450h+ – The Balanced Hybrid

The Lexus RX is the bread and butter that helps fuel the luxury brand’s sales machine with the RX rapidly morphing into a vital cog in the broader sales machine. The updated RX made its debut a short while back and while the odd exterior styling caused some controversy, it ultimately did little to stunt the model’s sales. Lexus is also out to prove that it’s not afraid to venture into new territory with the RX and used this iteration of the crossover to expand its presence into the PHEV market. The 2024 RX 450h+ is attempting to help push …

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5 Things to Know About the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

  It’s incredibly powerful. The numbers are jaw dropping. 641 horsepower and 565 lb. ft. of torque. For those playing at home, the Porsche 911 GT3 serves up (only!) 502 horsepower.     It’s incredibly fast. 0-60 mph comes up in 3.2 seconds. That’s about the same as that Porsche 911 GT3!   It thinks it’s a gas-powered car. (Sort of) One of the great thrills in the 5 N – press the N button on the steering wheel and a tachometer shows up on the gauge display, and the sound of a sporty 4-cylinder engine is pumped in. It …

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2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N review by Ben Lewis

If you’re new to Hyundai, you might have not noticed their “N” division. It’s pretty simple like BMW’s M division (and the watered-down M Sport models), The N is the Korean maker’s high-performance arm. (And like BMW, Hyundai also has an “N-Line” trim that’s sporty, but many levels below a true N). We recently tested a Hyundai Elantra N model and found it exhilarating fun in a small sedan package. So, when they told us they were going to create an N model for the popular Ioniq 5 EV, we were doubly intrigued. So, does it thrill? Let’s take a …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Nissan Rogue Rock Creek – Trailbusting in Style

When one looks at the Nissan Rogue, you would be hard-pressed to think that the urban-focused crossover would be a good tool of choice for serious trail running. However, Nissan knows that in order for it to get a bigger slice of the SUV market, it has to explore other avenues and segments to enhance profits. That includes the off-road market with the Rock Creek moniker serving as the bridge between the hardcore PRO-4X and the standard lineup. The Pathfinder and the Armada are bringing Rock Creek versions to their rosters and the smaller Rogue has now joined the family …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota Supra 45th Anniversary Edition

It can be hard to believe that the Toyota Supra is 45 years old. While most buyers are familiar with the current generation model and its 1990s era ancestor, it can be easy to forget that the Supra actually had its start in the 1980s before gaining widespread popularity a decade later. Toyota is eager to celebrate with the all-new 45th Anniversary Edition Supra. This Supra promises to help the Toyota celebrate its birthday in style but is it a compelling enough purchase for enthusiasts? Supra is stylish in orange With the bulk of the current generation Supra carrying over …

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Road Test-Review – 2023 Honda Passport Trailsport – Holding Down The Fort

Honda is preparing a new Passport which will be making its way to dealerships to bring the fight to rivals like the Ford Bronco Sport and the Toyota RAV4. But before the revamped model can forge its own path, the company has to rely on the aging outgoing model to hold down the fort for it at its dealerships. The first-generation Passport has proven to be a capable steed in the past, but does it have enough vigor to maintain a solid state of affairs before it hands the reigns to its replacement? Passport’s exterior styling is still a weakness …

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Porsche Outlaws: Stuttgart Hot Rods Book Review

Porsche Outlaws: Stuttgart Hot Rods – Book Review

Porsche Outlaws: Stuttgart Hot Rods by Michael Alan Ross For the latest Car Revs Daily Book review, we are tackling Porsche Outlaws: Stuttgart Hot Rods by Michael Alan Ross. As automotive enthusiasts and consumers we’re hard pressed to find any automotive books that do not include Porsche. The German manufacturer is a behemoth with global influence and recognition. However, Michael Alan Ross found a wonderful segment that needs a collective spotlight – the Porsche aftermarket tuners and builders.  Porsche Outlaws is a collection of notable (not exhaustive, that would be nearly impossible) tuners and builders in one beautiful book. There …

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5 things to know about the 2025 Honda Ridgeline:

  We recently tested the 2025 Honda Ridgeline, and came away very impressed. Here’s a quick take:   1. It rides like an SUV.Since it’s based on the same unibody chassis of the Odyssey, instead of the separate frame like most trucks, the ride is smoother and quieter, and handling is excellent too. 2. There’s a dedicated off-road modelIntroduced last year there’s a Ridgeline TrailSport model, featuring an off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires and steel underbody protection. It was even tuned and tested in the Imperial Dunes in Glamis, California, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 3. No big changes for …

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Insider: Choosing The Right Company Car For Your Small Business

Choosing the right company vehicle for your new startup is a significant decision. You’re not just selecting a vehicle; you’re choosing a representation of your professionalism, a reliable asset that meets your needs, and, most importantly, an affordable investment that puts you in control of your finances. With over 32 million commercial vehicles on the road, finding the perfect one for you is not a chore but a calculated business decision.   Like buying a car for personal use, a business vehicle needs to be considered more carefully so that you can use it for your business and purchase your …

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2025 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition review by Ben Lewis

We all know how popular SUVs are. But, if you’re looking for the real best sellers, you have to look at pickup trucks. For 2023, the #1 seller was the Ford F Series– over 750,000 sold. #2 the Chevy Silverado– 543,000, and #3 Dodge Ram – 449,000. (For those of you playing at home, #4 was the Toyota RAV4 at a commendable 443,000!) So yes, a lot of buyers still want a truck. But a lot of them don’t want the compromises you find in the truck world, like a harsh ride, non-car-like handling. For them, the Honda Ridgeline – …

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BRABUS Classic Mercedes-Benz Restoration Examples - As-New Cars of Any Age 13

How To Approach Your First Vehicle Restoration

Restoring a car that has seen better days is a project that pretty much defines the word “ambitious”. There are so many elements to a working car that anyone who chooses to take a dilapidated vehicle and bring it back up to scratch (or beyond) is really backing themselves. What we’re saying is, it’s not going to be easy – but it can be a lot of fun and extremely worthwhile if you go about it in the right way.   What is the right way? Well, to some extent it depends on a range of factors, most importantly your …

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Top Tips For Boosting Your Truck’s Reliability And Power

Owning a truck isn’t just about having a handy vehicle that can get you from A to B – owning a truck is about having a vehicle that you can rely on to handle anything that comes its way (sometimes literally) and that can get you where you want to go safely, comfortable, and ideally also cost-effectively. That could be going off-road, it might be hauling heavy loads, or maybe you just like taking long road trips in it, but whatever you use your truck for (including everyday driving if you prefer), you’ll need it to do what you want …

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Hyundai and Toyota Announce Success of Debuting Performance Car Festival

Hyundai and Toyota promised to make waves when the two auto giants confirmed that they would team up to produce a performance car festival that was supposed to bring two typically separate camps together for the greater good of promoting performance vehicles. The first-ever “Hyundai N x Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival” that resulted was a success and it could help plant the seeds for further partnerships moving forward between the two companies.  A bold idea The Festival would have seemed like a pipedream several years ago due to Hyundai and Toyota typically being heated rivals especially in performance racing with …

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2024 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label Review – A Global Take on Modern Luxury

American luxury. Built in China. Two statements, seemingly disconnected, that when put together describe the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus. But if we’re being honest, it’s probably more accurate to say that this newest Lincoln shows Americans the Chinese take on luxury. Take a quick look at Chinese car brands like Zeekr or Xpeng and you’ll see luxury vehicles that are defined by technology. Beyond the requisite electrified powertrains, these rides go all-in on features like animated exterior lighting, AI-powered driving assistants, and—most importantly—acres and acres of interior screens. It should come as no surprise, then, that this latest Nautilus—and its massive …

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Rolls Royce Builds Rolling Homage To Goldfinger

Rolls-Royce is always known for never declining the opportunity to challenge itself, especially when it comes to building one-off custom creations. In this case, the company completed a build that took over three years to complete with the one-off paying tribute to the iconic James Bond film Goldfinger Paying homage in style The Rolls Royce Phantom takes center stage in this build but the exterior is meant to pay homage to the 1937 Rolls Royce Phantom III owned by the movie’s antagonist (sorry James you get to sit this one out) Aurich Goldfinger. The exterior gets matching gold and black …

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2025 Acura RDX A-Spec Advance review by Ben Lewis

We’ve always liked Acura. Honda’s luxury brand gives you the premium auto vibe of the expensive imports, yet manages to keep the pricing good sense of Honda. So, when Acura announced an updated 2025 RDX crossover/SUV we were thrilled at the chance to give it a go. Aggressive and Bold Like the TLX and MDX models we recently tested, Acura is taking the already sporty models and giving them an extra “bam!” of spiciness that’s really eye catching. Your first glace is a good one – the front end receives a new frameless Diamond Pentagon grille and more aggressive grille …

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Hyundai Builds Bonkers RN24 Drift Machine To Serve As Rolling Lab

When Hyundai first started its rolling lab series in 2012, the goal was to create vehicles that not only helped draw plenty of attention to them, but also helped the company understand the finer aspects of driving as the Korean car giant prepares to boldly expand its presence in the EV landscape. The latest member of the series is perhaps the most utterly bonkers one of them all with the company unveiling the all-new N RN24 a wild drift machine that’s supposed to help the company probe the sheer limits of performance driving while also giving the N brand a …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Aston Martin DB12 – The DB To Top All DBs?

Aston Martin’s DB lineup of vehicles has become an iconic symbol of the company’s long yet complex history. Through the highs and the lows, the DB name persisted and it was always about delivering the best blend of luxury and performance to buyers looking for a distinct flavor in their GT purchase.  The Aston Martin DB12 is the latest in this long line of GT coupes and Aston Martin says that this DB is the best yet even as the company made some tough changes to help the DB shine in an era where tightening fuel economy standards and changing …

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2016 Lexus RX350 F Sport 27

Brilliant Ideas to Refresh Your Driveway

Upgrading your driveway may not have been on your list of things to renovate in your home this year, but that’s usually because looking at driveway ideas may not be as exciting as choosing a paint color for your new kitchen or tearing up the furniture in the walls so that you can replace all the cabinetry. The thing is, the driveway is one of the most aesthetic areas of your home. So if your driveway looks bad, the impression is that your home is going to look bad on the inside. It also gives the impression you don’t care …

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2024 Toyota RAV4 Off-Road review by Ben Lewis

When you’re on a roll, you’re on a roll. Well, the Toyota RAV4 has been the best-selling compact SUV for the last six years. That’s impressive because it’s one of the most competitive segments in the marketplace. Does the ’24 model have what it takes to stay as the king of the hill? Let’s take a look! In The Army Now At first glance, it’s hard not to notice our tester’s newly available Army Green paint. We love it on our TRD Off-Road model – it just makes sense for an outdoorsy-focused vehicle. It’s also a rugged looking ride, Up …

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2024 Hyundai Sonata N Line FWD road test review by Ben Lewis

While we know it’s a world of SUV’s and crossovers, there’s still lots of people that still like the traditional 4-door sedan. That’s why there’s an all-new Camry and an all-new Accord. Toyota and Honda knows there’s still gold in them there hills. But we have noticed that both of those models are now designed with frugal economy in mind, over good old-fashioned fun. That’s why we’re excited to be testing the 2024 Hyundai Sonata. Not only has it gotten a refresh inside and out to keep it current, but it also hasn’t forgotten the enthusiast, and offers a tasty …

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Lexus Ups The Stakes With 2025 Lexus LX700h and Overtrail

The rugged Lexus LX luxury SUV has always been the star pupil in the brand’s SUV family when it comes to delivering the best in both luxury and off-road capability. While the big SUV has proven to be capable in both categories, Lexus has never electrified the model in the two-plus decades that it has been in production with the brand preferring to let its big V8 do the talking before it was axed for a smaller V6. That’s now changing with the unveiling of the all-new 2025 Lexus LX700h which not only gives the model a hybrid option for …

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Acura Teases ADX Crossover, Promises Higher Levels Of Tech

Acura is preparing to debut the 2025 ADX in a few months with the new entry-level crossover promising to fill a hole in the brand’s model lineup. While the company is not quite ready to unveil the model in full just yet, several new teaser images appear to confirm that the ADX will attempt to blur the lines of performance and style when it debuts in a few months. ADX fills the void Our glimpse of the exterior was limited to a single shadowy image of the rear lighting which suggests it will follow the brand’s current design language with …

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Toyota and Hyundai Confirm Joint Performance Car Showcase Event, Is It Sign of Broader Partnership?

Toyota and Hyundai are normally heated rivals in the performance car wars with the two firms offering performance vehicles that often go toe to toe with one another out on the track. However, this rivalry also doesn’t mean that the two can occasionally collaborate on certain projects. That includes events with the two companies recently confirming that they will be working together to host a performance car event. Toyota and Hyundai announce rare team up The event in question is called the “Hyundai N x Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival” with the event being a rare case of detente between the …

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2025 Kia Niro EV Wave review by Ben Lewis

While we’re fans of EVs – if they’re right for you – the sad truth is that they can be expensive, often much more than their gas or hybrid siblings. But if you’re interested in an EV but don’t want to break the bank, there still are some great choices for you. And one of the best is the Kia Niro. So, let’s take a look at what you get! Smart and Fresh We’ve always liked the Kia Niro. One of the first hybrid crossover/tall hatches, even before it was an EV it had plenty of style, performance and amenities …

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2025 Ford Expedition Brings Full Redesign To Rugged Family Hauler

The Ford Expedition has always been a persistent thorn in the side of rivals like the Chevrolet Suburban and the Toyota Sequoia. The big Ford promised to bring buyers capability, comfort, and towing power to full-size SUV buyers. However, the model was also starting to show its age even after a mid-cycle enhancement a few years ago. Ford has finally addressed this flaw with the 2025 Ford Expedition which helps the SUV fall in line with rivals and brings new levels of refinement to the nameplate as the company continues to play its cards right in its attempt to lure …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N – The Champ Is Here

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has proven to be a proverbial sales smash for Hyundai with the compact EV SUV getting awards and praise wherever it goes. However, the standard Ioniq 5 is not exactly known for its performance manners with the model preferring to quietly go through the motions of the daily commute with little to no fanfare. Hyundai is now committed to ensuring that the SUV has some pep in its step and while a rugged XRT model is eventually coming to dealerships, the company is shining the spotlight on track-ready performance with the 2025 Ioniq 5 N. But …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor – The Ranger Gets The Dino Treatment

Ford has made it clear that it intends to boost its presence in the performance vehicle market. While the bulk of that statement is focused on the Ford Mustang, it also includes the Raptor lineup with the company now adding the Ranger into the fold in an attempt to get midsize pickup buyers who want off-road performance but aren’t ready to make the move up into a bigger F-150 model. But is the Ranger Raptor the perfect solution for buyers looking for the best of Raptor fun in a smaller package? Ranger Raptor hits the gym When we last saw …

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Road Test Review- 2025 Nissan Kicks SR – This Kicks Still Has The Stuff

Nissan knew that it was on to something when it replaced the funky Juke crossover with the Kicks. The Kicks was supposed to appeal to younger buyers with the exterior styling shedding some of the Juke’s funky lines for a more traditional look that still came loaded with dynamic lines and creases.  The Kicks has proven to be a strong seller for the company with the SUV rapidly becoming a key player in Nissan’s sales machine. That was evident when Nissan confirmed that it sold over 53,000 of them in 2023. The outgoing 2024 model appears to be on track …

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2025 Subaru Forester Sport review by Ben Lewis

Along with the Outback and Crosstrek, Subaru has one of the most popular SUV lineups available. So, when they announced an all-new Forester, you know we had to give it a test. Does the all-new keep the Forester at the top of the SUV pack?  Let’s find out! Familiar but Fresh While Subaru says this is an all-new design, it looks very Forester to us – no problem as we’ve always liked the sharp, capable vibe. Up front, the fascia echoes the traditional Subaru pentagon-shaped grille, which now looks further pushed out to the corners, while two-tiered LED compact headlights …

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2026 Cadillac Vistiq Shows Off Lighting In Exclusive Photos

It has been a bit since we heard about the Cadillac Vistiq EV which was supposed to be the proverbial middle child in Cadillac’s EV lineup with the model being slotted between the smaller Lyirq and the flagship Escalade IQ. While the aforementioned Lyriq and Escalade IQ have had their time to shine in the spotlight, the Vistiq has been more camera-shy, with GM’s perfectly crafted press photos being our best glimpse at it beyond occasional sightings out in the wild by observers. We recently had a chance encounter with the Vistiq ourselves in Metro Detroit and it appears that …

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The Perfect Sunglasses for Classic Cars from James Bond Films

With each new film, the James Bond brand introduces products that reflect its debonair image, from tailored suits to the latest luxury vehicles. A recent example of this cross-industry collaboration is the Triumph Scrambler 1200 Bond Edition motorcycle, which was launched alongside the latest Bond film No Time To Die (2021). Featuring 007 logos, Bond Edition badging, and gold accents, this bike embodies the blend of luxury and function that is central to the Bond universe.   But beyond the expensive motorcycles, the James Bond films are best known for their stunning array of classic cars, which often take center …

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2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 1958 review by Ben Lewis

As we noted recently with the test  of the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe and Lexus GX550, big blocky SUV’s are back. The rugged, squared-off looks really are resonating with buyers, and the truckish, ultra-capable vibe is catching fire. So, it makes sense that one of the original boxy SUVs would return to its roots, and we were thrilled when we found out we’d be testing the all-new Toyota Land Cruiser. While the Land Cruiser has evolved over the years to a large luxury SUV, with excellent off-road capability, it also became quite expensive. With the all-new model Toyota promises the …

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Ford Engineering Lab Celebrates 100 Years, Promises To Be A Beacon of The Future

Ford is throwing a party as the company celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Ford Engineering Lab with the historic facility getting a full renovation that breathes new life into the space while also maintaining its strong links to the past. It’s these links to the past that not only help inspire a new generation of Ford’s brightest engineers but also shows that Ford is ready to accelerate into the future. Don’t judge a book by its cover At first glance, you would be hard-pressed to think that any such renovation even happened with the building keeping its classic Albert …

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Chevrolet Equinox EV Owners Face Massive Repair Delays

The Chevrolet Equinox EV was supposed to be the spearhead of a broader stab at the mass market for the brand with the Equinox and the Blazer EV attempting to lure in more buyers that would feel comfortable making the jump to an EV, but were turned away by high price tags and an initial emphasis on the luxury vehicle segment. The Equinox EV in particular has proven to be a steady seller for the brand, but is there a problem brewing under the surface? A growing number of Equinox EV repair delays raises concerns According to a new report …

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Lotus Theory 1 Concept Boasts Wild Doors, Central Seating Position

Lotus is embarking on a new chapter in its history with the British automaker preparing to move on from ICE-powered models like the Emira into a future where EVs like the Eletre will become the new normal. However, the company still has a wild side and it has decided to show off that bold spirit with its latest concept the all-new Theory 1 Concept. Theory 1 highlights future Lotus design Lotus says the Theory 1 is supposed to represent the brand’s design future with reports saying that it was partially inspired by the Esprit. The concept has a bold wedge-shaped …

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2025 Mini Countryman S ALL4 review by Ben Lewis

It’s big news at Mini with an all-new Countryman! We’ve always been fans of the Mini brand. Since 2003, it’s brought charm, style and joy to buyers in a cheeky, fun-size package. Along the way, (and along with just about every other brand) vehicles have gotten larger. And now we have the all-new 2025 Mini Countryman, a small SUV that is the largest the brand has made. So, while it’s the biggest and most powerful Mini ever, does it still have that Mini charm? Let’s find out! Bigger, Bolder, Cheekier Even from the first glance you know this is something …

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First Production Cadillac Escalade IQ to Cross The Block At Barrett Jackson

Cadillac’s Escalade IQ sent a strong message that the brand was serious about embracing an all-electric future with the flagship EV SUV also teasing a shift in direction for the Escalade lineup as a whole once the refreshed ICE-powered model ends its production cycle. However, what if you’re looking to buy one and have perhaps seen an IQ or two cruising the grounds near a GM development facility?  Cadillac says that a chance to buy one will be happening but only if you have plenty of cash in your wallet and are willing to make the trip to the Barrett …

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2025 Bentley Flying Spur Speed Embraces PHEV Performance

Bentley is embarking on a gradual transition towards an EV-only lineup with the brand still moving full speed ahead on its attempt to redefine its future. However, the British ultra-luxury brand also knows that a gradual move into EVs is needed to help their customers not feel rushed into an electrified vehicle and that’s why it has been focusing on adding more hybrid options to its existing lineup of ICE-powered vehicles. The latest model to get the treatment is the 2025 Bentley Flying Spur Speed which attempts to blend performance with efficiency to create a bespoke unified package.   Light changes …

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Lucid Teases Cheaper SUV to be Sold Below Gravity

Lucid’s Gravity SUV is shaping up to be a key entry for the brand. The Gravity is the first time that the EV company has attempted to penetrate the EV segment and will help Lucid expand its sales. However, the company also knows that a smaller model will be needed in order for it to truly capitalize on the segment. The company has confirmed that such a model is indeed under development and even released a lone teaser image to provide interested buyers a glimpse of what’s to come. New SUV promises to deliver on style it’s not known what …

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Jeep Promises ‘Perfect Quality’ for Wagoneer S EV

Jeep is leaving no stone unturned as the company prepares to launch its first U.S. EV model. While the Wagoneer S was beaten to the punch by the Avenger EV, that model is for the international market only, as a result, Jeep will be facing a big test when it begins production of the Wagoneer S. To help ensure it makes the grade, Jeep revealed that the new EV will have ‘Perfect Quality’ and buyers will notice this promise in full force when deliveries begin this fall. Wagoneer S deliveries could be pushed back When we last heard about the …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Subaru BRZ tS – Sharper Suspension Makes This BRZ Dance

The Subaru BRZ and its mechanical twin the Toyota GR86 have had a long history with the two coupes providing buyers an entry-level performance alternative that can deliver the core essentials but without going overboard in the pursuit of performance and the seemingly accompanying rise in prices. It doesn’t hurt either that the BRZ in particular looks very stylish and does a good job of delivering the goods when it comes to showing off its personality. However, the quest for performance is never-ending, and the company is always open to finding new ways to build on its performance DNA. That …

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2025 Nissan Armada Ups The Ante on Luxury and Capability

Nissan is finally giving the Nissan Armada the attention that it rightfully deserves with the 2025 Armada. The 2025 model gives the SUV a proper makeover with the SUV getting a revamped exterior, interior, and even an updated powertrain to try and make it fit in with many of its updated rivals. With the dust settling on its debut, are all of these changes enough to finally help the SUV shed its reputation of being a dated entry in a broader segment that’s seeing strong growth and demand? We wanted to find out. Armada’s exterior styling expected to draw plenty …

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2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the Acura MDX Type S and were impressed with the 3-row SUV’s style, performance and room. It seems like 3-row SUV’s are big again. But they’re not for everyone. So were very interested to hear about the all-new Mazda CX-70, which looks to be a 5-passenger version of the three-row CX-90 which we love. So, does the lack of a third row change our opinion? Let’s take a look! A Bit More Muscle While they certainly look like siblings, Mazda did take some effort to make the CX-70 look different, and we especially like the front end. …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Bespoke Series – Bespoke Never Looked So Lovely

The Lexus LC continues to be one of the most underrated GTs on the market today. While the V8-powered Lexus often blends into the background when compared with rivals from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and even higher-grade models like the Maserati GranCabrio and its coupe counterpart the GranTurismo. It has inner charms that beg to be explored if you’re willing to get to know it better. That includes the 2024 LC 500 Bespoke Series which adds a pinch of custom flavor to the LC experience. Copper Crest paint draws plenty of stares to the LC The 2024 Lexus LC lineup doesn’t change …

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2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT Goes Off The Beaten Path

Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 EV has proven to not only be a popular choice among EV buyers but also a flexible canvas when it comes to specialty models with the Ioniq N serving as a small glimpse of what the Ioniq 5 can do when allowed to roam out on the race track. This time around, the Korean car giant is focusing on the road less traveled with the introduction of the trail-ready XRT model which will spearhead the broader updates that the company has applied to the refreshed model for 2025. Ioniq 5 XRT is trail-ready for any occasion The …

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2025 Aston Martin Vanquish Brings V12 Flagship Power To The Supercar Party

When Aston Martin unleashed the DB12, the lack of a V12 option broke tradition and it caused a considerable amount of uproar from buyers who still wanted a V12 even if the V8 is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter that makes over 600 horsepower. As they say, greed is good and the need for more power inspired Aston Martin to dig into the vault and bring back the 2025 Vanquish which will be its new flagship model. Vanquish goes back to its roots When we last saw a production Vanquish it was six years ago with the sleek coupe being the pinnacle …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail – The Billy Goat Is Back

Lexus is typically known for being a top-selling luxury brand with the brand making great strides since it originally appeared in the U.S. in 1989. When it’s not coddling passengers in luxury with their products, the brand is also known for occasionally exploring new segments and trends. That included the off-road segment with the original GX starting life as a slightly less capable version of the Toyota 4Runner before finding their purpose on the trail in later years. The 2024 GX 550 attempts to solidify its trail credentials with a wave of new updates that bring more poise and capability …

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2025 Acura MDX Type S Advance review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the Acura TLX Type S, and were impressed how Acura continuously improves their models – even when they’re already pretty darn good. So, when we heard that the 2025 3-row MDX SUV was going to get some meaningful improvements, we jumped at the chance to drive one of our favorite luxury SUVs. After all, it’s not only Acura’s best-selling vehicle, but also the best-selling 3-row luxury SUV! Go for the Bold On the outside, the MDX gets a tougher look, especially notable in our sporty Type S model. Up front, there’s a more aggressive fascia, starting with …

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VinFast VF 9 Starts at $71,000, Gets $12-16k Price Cut

When we last heard from EV startup VinFast, it was when we were at SEMA to check out the U.S. debut of the VF3 CUV and the VF Wild concept truck. The duo came after a rough rollout of the VF 8 which we had the chance to drive when the firm invited us out to California to check it out last year. However, the glue that will help keep the broader lineup together is the luxurious VF 9 SUV which originally made its debut at the 2021 L.A. Auto Show and was supposed to be available for purchase last …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Mazda CX-30 Carbon Turbo – Still The Fun CUV

The small CUV segment is swelling with nameplates as multiple automakers attempt to inject their own form of identity and purpose into a segment commonly defined by practicality and putting the actual art of driving very low on the priority list. While this certainly won’t bother the large bulk of family buyers that crave passenger space, it might leave some enthusiasts who were forced to sacrifice their sporty two-door coupe or performance sedan for the greater good feel left out. Mazda is attempting to change that with the Mazda CX-30 which attempts to bridge the gap and deliver some of …

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Hyundai Confirms Production of N Vision 74 Supercar, Part of Broader EV Push

It has been years of rumors and speculation but Hyundai has finally confirmed that it will not only be producing the N Vision 74 supercar but the model will also be part of a broader push that will see the company debut over 20 new EV models over the next few years. N Vision 74 a sign of things to come When the original N Vision 74 concept appeared, it was a wild two-door coupe with the car being powered by an all-electric powertrain that was powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Hyundai didn’t reveal official powertrain information for the production …

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2025 Ford Bronco Sport Sasquatch Brings Cryptid Capability In Smaller Package

The Ford Bronco Sport has always been the little brother in the Bronco family with the model appealing to buyers who want some of the Bronco’s capability but in a smaller package and at a more approachable price point. The base Badlands was the most capable Bronco in the lineup but Ford is preparing to change the script with the 2025 Bronco Sport Sasquatch which brings cryptid-inspired features and capability to the model for the first time ever. Bronco Sport Sasquatch focuses on the details Ford wanted to show that the Bronco Sport was just as deserving of the nameplate …

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2024 Audi Q8 Sportback S line e-tron quattro review by Ben Lewis

Ready to make new friends and fans of EVs! It seems like there are two camps in EV. One likes it completely different from gas-powered vehicles, aimed at those who like to step up to the newest latest tech. They want their Jetson mobile, and they want it now. We’d put vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and 6, Tesla and such in that camp. But if you’re really going to get more traditional buyers out of their gas-powered vehicles, it needs to be easier. Friendlier. Familiar even. And one of those leading the way has been Audi, and with …

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2025 Cadillac Escalade Pumps Up its Pricing Ladder, Starts at $89,950

Cadillac has released pricing for the 2025 Cadillac Escalade and prices are going up for the new year as the refreshed SUV will now start at $89,950 as it attempts to continue bringing the fight to rivals like the Lincoln Navigator as well as European entries like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the Land Rover Range Rover. Escalade pricing ladder gets beefed up The $89,950 figure we mentioned earlier is over $5,000 more than the outgoing model and highlights a broader increase in prices across the board. We have provided a full breakdown of the pricing ladder which can be seen …

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2024 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD – Is The RAV4 Still A Player In The SUV Segment?

The Toyota RAV4 is celebrating its 30th birthday this year and while the RAV4 has used the bulk of those three decades focusing on providing the fundamentals with cargo capacity, passenger comfort, and fuel economy all being top priorities. The RAV4 is continuing to soldier on with minor updates for the 2024 model year but is this light approach to updates causing the established veteran to lose ground to SUV upstarts? RAV4 styling still has rugged appeal The exterior styling of the RAV4 continues to be unchanged for the new model year with Limited models like our tester still attempting …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid XLE – The Budget Fuel Sipper

The Toyota Corolla may be relishing in its recent role as a performance superstar when it comes to the GR Corolla, but long before Toyota chose to give the Corolla neck-snapping acceleration and corner-carving abilities it was better known for being the modern poster child for sensible commuting with fuel economy and value being the key pillars of its success. These pillars are attempting to bestow this same magic onto the 2024 Corolla Hybrid but is it all enough to help it continue winning over budget-minded customers? Corolla’s exterior paints practical image At first glance, the exterior styling of the …

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Durango Hellcat “Silver Bullet” Signals End of Hellcat Production

Dodge shocked the world when it confirmed that it was ending production of the 6.2-liter supercharged Hellcat V8 engine. The Hellcat powered everything from Chargers to Ram pickup trucks with the powertrain cementing itself as an icon of the performance car market. However, buyers looking for one last swig of Hellcat performance had one remaining sanctuary, the Dodge Durango Hellcat with this model getting a brief stay of execution due to its strong popularity. Sadly, time is up and the Hellcat will be leaving the Durango for good in the form of the all-new “Silver Bullet” edition. Durango Silver Bullet …

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2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pricing Revealed, Starts at $61,545

It has been a bit since the Volkswagen ID. Buzz made its debut. The funky retro EV van was designed to be a modern reboot of the iconic 60’s era VW bus but with electrification forming the core of its performance DNA. However, while the model already made its debut in Europe, it has been a long wait for U.S. buyers, with the company taking its time in bringing it to our shores. Volkswagen is just about ready to bring it over now, with the firm releasing pricing for the Buzz. The ID. Buzz costs how much? Style is often …

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Ford’s Three-Row SUV Bites The Dust As Company Rethinks EV Plans

Ford’s recent pivot in its electrification plans is starting to become more defined as the company confirms that its upcoming three-row EV SUV has bit the dust as hybrids and PHEVs rapidly take center stage in the company’s future sales projections. The SUV itself will live on, but now as a hybrid-equipped offering. Hybrid replaces EV in upcoming SUV   The confirmation came during a media briefing that the company hosted with the move being the latest sign that hybrids are once again taking center stage at Ford. The company didn’t release a timetable when this three-row SUV would appear …

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First Look 2025 Ford Mavrick Lobo – The Return of The Street Truck is Here

When Ford unveiled the 2025 Ford Maverick, the company promised that it had a surprise up its sleeve for truck buyers to enjoy. That surprise came in the form of the beefed-up Lobo which is attempting to reach out to buyers that might remember the street truck craze of the 1990s which saw trucks get performance upgrades for on-road performance versus being rugged trail warriors. The Lobo certainly has all the right stuff to be a sleeper hit for Ford but is it all show and no go? We wanted to find out. Lobo looks the part While Ford didn’t …

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2024 Ram 2500 Gets Moon Themed Lunar Edition

The 2024 Ram Heavy Duty has been an enduring presence in the pickup market and while it’s starting to show its age against the segment’s best, it’s still a viable option for those that want capability but with a distinct flavor that only Ram can provide. With a recent trend of embracing lunar themes taking root in the automotive industry, Ram has decided to jump in on the trend with the 2024 Ram 2500 Lunar Edition. New color defines Lunar Edition As the phoned-in name implies, the Lunar Edition focuses on a new paint color called Ceramic Grey with the …

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2025 GMC Yukon Gets New Styling, More Capability and Tech

General Motors is once again refreshing its lineup of full-size SUVs. With the Cadillac Escalade recently getting a refresh a short while back, the company is now focusing its attention on the 2025 GMC Yukon which is also getting updates of its own to help the big SUV stay in the game when it comes to attracting tech-savvy family buyers.  Yukon falls in step with rest of the brand The exterior styling of the GMC Yukon gets reworked to help the brand fall in lock step with other models like the Acadia and the Terrain. The front end gets new …

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Maserati GT2 Stradale Is Street-Legal Track Special, More Power and Style Make This Italian Shine

The Maserati MC20 is a pretty impressive supercar with the site recently spending three days with one last year. But what if you’re a buyer that wants more power and style than what even the base MC20 can provide? The Italian company has you covered with the all-new GT2 Stradale. GT2 Stradale has track-ready looks for your friends on the street The GT12 Stradale may share some of its core underpinnings with the MC20 but Maserati prefers that you don’t call it that since it’s essentially a road-going version of the aforementioned GT2. As a result, the exterior styling is …

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Cadillac Opulent Velocity Concept Could Shake Up Cadillac’s Future

A short while ago, Cadillac revealed the Sollei concept. The stunning droptop was an expression of pure design and was a glimpse into a potential Celestiq-based convertible (though Cadillac denied it was producing it.) However, with the dust now settling on Monterey Car Week, the brand is going in the opposite direction with the all-new Opulent Velocity concept car. Opulent Velocity is a balancing act   While the Sollei is about soaking up the sun, the Opulent Velocity is all about pushing the envelope with Cadillac saying that it’s a rolling test bed for several prototype technologies including future battery …

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2025 Toyota Camry XSE Review by Ben Lewis

We don’t know what’s in the water cooler at Toyota, but we like it! Lately, Toyota has been on a roll with some exciting stylish vehicles – and some of them in the most surprising places. Take the all-new Prius, it’s gorgeous! Yes, a prius. And the new Land Cruiser; going back to a classic squared-off look that’s retro yet amazing. So, we can’t say we’re stunned that the carmaker did a major refresh on the Camry, but when you consider that it’s the best-selling sedan for the last 22 years, you’ve got to admire the moxie to mix things …

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2024 Ford Mustang gets New Color and SVT Cobra Gauges For The New Model Year

The Ford Mustang is celebrating its 60th birthday and the company is pulling out all the stops in making sure that the bday bash is filled with thrills and chills. That also includes giving potential Mustang owners plenty of party favors with the company unveiling the 2024 Mustang 60th Anniversary model on the streets of Woodward which not only gets a new color but also a visual tribute to the legendary SVT Cobra. SVT Cobra gauges pay homage to 1990s Mustangs   One of the biggest changes that Mustang buyers will notice are the new SVT Cobra gauges that are …

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2025 Lincoln Navigator Gets Reboot, New Tech and Simplified Trim Ladder Spearhead Updates

Lincoln says that the Lincoln Navigator is the center of gravity when it comes luxury and technology. However, the model has also played second fiddle to rivals in recent years especially its archnemesis the Cadillac Escalade. Lincoln is out to reorient the status quo and has formally unveiled the 2025 Navigator which raises the bar on styling and technology while also bringing several innovative features to the model for the first time ever. Exterior styling brings Navigator in step with current design language  The current generation Navigator has been on sale for several years now and is one of the …

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Motorlux 2024

Monterey Car Week 2024 Events

Monterey Car Week 2024 The annual celebration of automotive excellence known as Monterey Car Week is upon us!  For the uninitiated, “Monterey Car Week” is the grand finale of events for the unofficial close out of “car show season” in North America.  It is here that manufactures are known to show brand new cars, special editions and beautiful one-offs that naturally fit right in with the Monterey crowd. Motorlux On Wednesday, kicking off the festivities is MotorLux (formerly McCalls Motorworks Revival) – now a Hagerty Company event. Features vintage race cars, aircraft and high-brow culinary fare. Tickets will run you …

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Acura’s Monterey Bound Concept Previews Performance SUV

The Acura ZDX was seen as a redemption play of sorts from the Japanese automaker. The ZDX was Acura’s first foray into EVs but came after an ICE-powered model which was a slow seller and quietly retreated into the shadows after a brief production run. This time around, the ZDX is promoting technology, luxury, and range. However, the ZDX is not the raw performance model that some EV buyers want when compared to rivals from Tesla, Rivian, and others. Acura appears to have listened to these concerns and has unveiled an all-new EV SUV concept that might push the envelope …

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Texas Sues GM, Claims Company Tricked Buyers To Sharing Data That Was Later Used By Insurers

The state of Texas has filed a lawsuit against General Motors claiming that the car giant tricked customers into sharing and providing their personal data which was later used by insurance companies and other entities without their knowledge. A pattern of mistrust According to the state of Texas, new vehicle owners were presented with what the state calls “a confusing and highly misleading process” that was promoted as a way to increase their safety but in reality it “was no more than a deceptively designed sales flow” that surrendered their data for GM to sell. The suit alleges that at …

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Road Test Followup – 2024 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy – Luxury Thy Name Is Hyundai

It’s harder than it looks offering buyers an SUV that’s the perfect blend of comfort, utility, and value but the 2024 Hyundai Palisade is one of the few that comes the closest to putting the three together in a composed yet balanced package. The Palisade got a significant revamp that saw the SUV get more polish and poise to match its unique character. But does this extend to the Calligraphy model as it fights for sales in the near-luxury sub-segment? We wanted to find out. Palisade Calligraphy looks the part now When we last saw the Palisade Calligraphy, we couldn’t …

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Lincoln Teases 2025 Navigator, Light Up Grille Shines The Way

The Lincoln Navigator continues to be the brand’s flagship and while it’s currently on the backfoot when it comes to sales, it’s still a potent contender in the full-size luxury SUV segment. Lincoln is out to prove that the 2025 Navigator still has plenty of tricks up its sleeve and has teased the 2025 model ahead of its August 15th debut. Lighting and luxury continue to be Navigator themes The brief teaser video that Lincoln released didn’t reveal too many details, but it appears to confirm that the 2025 Gator will get a wider front grille with a new illuminated …

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2025 GMC Terrain Gets Improved Styling, Tech, and Power

The current generation GMC Terrain long preferred to be behind the scenes with the model giving up the spotlight to models like the revamped GMC Acadia, the Sierra pickup, and even the Hummer EV lineup. The Terrain was last updated in 2022 and it has still managed to remain a good seller despite its age beginning to show in a few spots.  GMC is not taking any chances though and it has unveiled the 2025 GMC Terrain with the model supposedly being a massive revamp for the brand. Styling, technology, and powertrains are all being updated but is it all …

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2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT review by Ben Lewis

Think of it as a farewell tour. While the Legacy has been with us since 1989 and is the longest running nameplate or the brand, the carmaker has announced that the 2025 model will be the last for the sedan. So, is it going out with a bang, or just fading off into the distance? Handsome and Reserved While the running gear of the Legacy sedan is almost identical to the Outback Wagon, where the Outback is wearing outdoorsy LL Bean duds, the Legacy is a traditional sedan. Which is not to say frumpy. Up front, there’s the familiar trapezoidal …

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Volvo’s 2024 EX90 Dealt Huge Blow As Material Costs Drive Up Price

Volvo was confident that the upcoming 2024 EX90 SUV was going to be a big value play in its segment with the model starting at $76,695. This price was supposed to pair well with its advanced EV technology and sleek exterior styling to create a potent contender in the luxury EV SUV segment. However, the company has now been forced to face the reality of the changing global economy and rising material costs have forced the company to abandon this plan and raise the price by $3,300 in a huge blow that could dent the model’s success in certain markets …

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2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring road test by Ben Lewis

The lovable 2-seat sports car is better than ever! Trends come and go, and we’ve seen a bunch of them, compact SUVs, 3-row SUVs, EVs, full-size trucks, compact trucks, etc.…And we don’t mind the spice that comes with new and exciting directions. But we also like things that stand the test of time, especially things that bring us joy. And since 1990, the Mazda Miata has been the small, affordable sports car designed to delight driving enthusiasts. Every time we get into a Miata it reminds us why we love to drive, and why we love sports cars. So, when …

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Motorsport Book Review

When Sex Was Safe (And Motor Racing Bloody Dangerous) Motorsport Book Review

The Beauty of Motorsports If striking-images and compelling stories of motorsports history interests you, Automobilist’s book, “When Sex Was Safe (and Motor Racing Bloody Dangerous)” is a required purchase. For Jan Rambousek and Petr Milerski, running a successful ad agency out of Prague, Czech Republic wasn’t enough. Working with clients and automakers was enjoyable but confining and hardly fulfilling. Their desired focus lay in making a difference. Tying that with their passion for motorsports would be tricky. By utilizing their technical innovations with blind determination to forgo the short-term, they create truly unique and inspiring creations. “Our mission is to …

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