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2025 Honda Civic Sport Touring Hybrid sedan review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the BMW i4 and loved it – here was an EV that was a BMW first and foremost. And we couldn’t stop thinking about that with our time in the 2025 Civic Hybrid. Lately, the Civic has been a sparkling, delightful and well-priced small sedan and hatch. We especially liked the sporty Si model. So when we heard that the new Hybrid model will be the most powerful non-Type R ever – we couldn’t wait to get our hands on one. And now we have. So, is the Hybrid the Civic of our dreams? You might be …

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Review: The Chevrolet Equinox EV 2LT Is A Cost-Friendly Ride With Mass Appeal

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Spend too much time on car websites—like I do—and you’ll close your browser believing the following two statements to be true: the world needs more brown, diesel-powered station wagons with manual transmissions; and that the world really needs a sub-$35,000 EV. While that first idea may never find traction beyond a certain subset of enthusiasts, the second one is driving the future of transportation. The car market is global, and global buyers are hooked on cheap EVs. And here in the US, anything under that $35k price point generally qualifies as affordable. GM is hoping enough people find its newest …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Limited

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Hybrid vehicles are experiencing a second act as more automakers embrace the technology after seeing demand for EVs sink which forced them to change their plans for electrification with some of them abandoning plans for an all-electric vehicle lineup. Hyundai has been taking a calculated approach when it comes to green vehicles and while the company has focused heavily on EVs, hybrids also make up a growing part of their business with the Elantra being one of these green machines.  The compact is attempting to infuse hybrid fuel economy with a small comfortable package. But is all of this enough …

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2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the BMW i4 Gran Coupe EV and found it to be a fantastic BMW that just happens to be an EV.  That’s always the challenge with a brand like this – there are such high expectations. Is the same true for the all-new X2? Certainly, it’s helped by the previous X2 model, a kind of mix between small crossover and hot hatch, based on the X1 small SUV. The X1 is a more traditional vehicle, and a darn good one, but we always felt that BMW was allowed to let their hair down on the X2 and …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Nissan Altima SR – Stylish Sedan Has Quiet Personality

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When it comes to identifying the proverbial bread-and-butter model in Nissan’s lineup, chances are good you will assume crossovers like the Rogue and the Kicks have the mantle. However, a third model also has this role but it doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves. This model is the 2025 Altima sedan with the Altima being Nissan’s enduring entry in the mid-size sedan segment. Age is starting to show its presence in the Altima but do the extra wrinkles prevent the Altima from standing out in a sedan segment where design has rapidly reasserted itself as a key tool …

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2025 BMW i4 eDrive40 Gran Coupe review by Ben Lewis

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We’ve noticed two camps, well okay, at least two camps when it comes to EVs. There’s one that celebrates all that’s different and unique – the Hyundai Ioniq 5 comes to mind – and the other, which makes it a very easy transition from gas to electric. Our tester, the BMW i4 is a perfect example. And BMW sweetens the pot for 2025, with notable upgrades inside an out. So, is the i4 the Ultimate Driving Machine for you? Let’s find out. Gran Style We’d have to say that the Gran Coupe – essentially a 5-door hatchback – is one …

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2025 MINI Cooper S Hardtop 4 Door review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the all-new 2025 Mini Countryman and really liked the fresh style, updated interior and  great performance. But it did make us beg the question, does something that big really qualify as “Mini”? So, we were really excited to test the all-new 2025 MINI Cooper S 4-door. Much closer to the original MINI ethos, it brings loads of cheeky goodness that we love with the brand and takes it to a new level. We’ll admit it – we were delighted! Fresh Look but still MINI From first glance, you know this is a MINI Cooper, the diminutive size, …

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2025 Mazda3 Premium Plus Turbo Hatch Vs The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla – Which Is Best?

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The hot hatch market is in an interesting state of flux. Performance CUVs are rapidly entering the territory once strongly held by icons like the Volkswagen GTI. However, the hot hatch is still alive and there are still models fighting for sales supremacy. Two of them are the Mazda3 Turbo hatch and the Toyota GR Corolla. Both of these hatchbacks are two of the best performance models you can get from a Japanese automaker but which one is the best? 2025 Mazda3 Premium Plus Turbo Hatch At first glance, it might be safe to assume that Mazda is applying a …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota GR86 Premium – Light Updates Polish A Potent Performance Gem

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The Toyota GR86 (and its twin the Subaru BRZ) are the automotive equivalent of a love affair. The spunky Toyota blends a coupe shape with performance engineering to create a two-door that proves the affordable performance coupe is far from dead. The GR86 is also defying the odds in terms of sales with the coupe fighting for attention as SUVs and CUVs gradually intrude on its turf. There’s alot to like about this Toyota especially if you take a moment to look under the surface. GR86 has the looks that kill Toyota like alot of other automakers is choosing to …

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2025 Subaru Outback Touring XT review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Volvo XC60 SUV and mentioned how the Swedish brand has always been something a little different than the usual European suspects, like Audi, BMW and Mercedes. And we also noted that Subaru has that same sort of vibe. Sure, there are lots of great Toyotas and Hondas, but a Subie…well that’s something a little special, for owners who see themselves as less mainstream. So, we were excited to spend some time in the 2025 Subaru Outback to see – does it still have that special sauce that makes it the choice for those choose the road …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Toyota Crown Nightshade – This Crown Goes To The Darkside

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Toyota has a hit on its hands with the all-new Toyota Crown. The Crown may look like a funky lifted sedan, but this Avalon replacement has proven to be a consistent player in Toyota’s sales portfolio thanks to its combination of luxury, performance, and simple styling. However, some have pointed out the Crown does not have a distinct personality which is a must for younger buyers. Toyota is attempting to inject more fun into the Crown with the all-new 2025 Crown Nightshade. But does this latest member of the Nightshade family have the spunk needed to help bring the Crown …

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Review: The Hyundai Sonata N Line Nicely Blends Comfort, Sportiness and Value

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While Hyundai is trying to position its new-ish N brand as something akin to M or AMG, it doesn’t have the history—or baggage—of those storied German brands. It’s a clean slate, so Hyundai can do whatever it wants, whether it’s going full-bonkers with rides like the Elantra N or IONIQ5 N, or giving us something milder: like this Hyundai Sonata N Line. And both approaches feel totally fine. Compared to the rowdier rides that get an N badge, this Sonata N Line is a mostly standard Sonata with some sporty influences. But in a world overrun with crossovers, I’m stoked …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Lexus ES350 F-Sport – Comfort Over Sportiness

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The Lexus ES lineup has always been about providing buttery smooth comfort at a price that also projects a strong value to luxury consumers. With its Camry-based architecture, the ES is often the unsung hero in the luxury brand’s sales numbers with the ES preferring to let other models like the RX, LX, and even the LS shine in the limelight. Lexus has big plans for the ES but we wanted to see if the current generation ES can still hold down the fort for Lexus and continue to lure in its unique clientele of buyers. ES styling is aging …

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Porsche 718 Sales See Boost As The Taycan Tanks

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Porsche set a new sales record as the German sports car brand revealed it sold 76,157 units in 2024 with the brand seeing its sales increase even as the all-electric Taycan lineup continues to be the proverbial ball and chain in an otherwise strong sales performance. Porsche’s numbers might seem typical but some of the underlying details are not, and hint that loyalists are still flocking to traditional Porsche products. Soon to be axed 718 models see resurgence in sales The 718 Boxster and Cayman provided the bulk of the muscle for this strong surge in sales with demand for …

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2024 Volvo XC60 Recharge AWD Ultimate review by Ben Lewis

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There are certain brands that just seem to appeal to folks who want to go their own way.  For example, there are plenty of nice Toyota and Honda vehicles out there. But among the great mainstream competitors, you also have Subaru. Yes, a Subaru does the same things the others do, but you get a feeling that they have their own way. And it reflects on their owners. In the Premium department, we think you have the same thing. Yep, BMW, Mercedes and Audi – all great stuff. But on the path less travelled, Volvo. It’s a brand that’s been …

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GTD Spirit of America Is Rolling Tribute To Speed

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The Ford Mustang GTD is already slated to be a very rare sight out on the road with Ford planning to only produce a very small number of them before it ceases production. Ordering one is the equivalent of running through the gauntlet with Ford requiring potential buyers to not only pony up a large chunk of change to own one, but to also get approval from the company itself. Buyers still willing to go through these hoops were given a special visual treat during Ford’s press conference at the Detroit Auto Show with the unveiling of the Mustang GTD …

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Mustang RTR Is An EcoBoost With The Soul of a Dark Horse

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Ford had plenty of surprises when it invited journalists, content creators, and influencers to their press conference at the Detroit Auto Show. One of them was the all-new RTR Mustang, which was the surprise of the night and it also represents a new direction Ford is going in its attempts to bring Mustang performance into the hands of more buyers. RTR embraces EcoBoost engine The RTR arrived in bold fashion with RTR founder Vaugh Gitten Jr. doing slow-speed drifting and donuts for the assembled crowd. Unlike other RTR offerings, this one will not be an after-sale upfit, with the model …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Subaru Outback Limited – Still The Rugged All Rounder

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Three decades ago, Subaru took a traditional station wagon, jacked up the suspension and helped create the Outback which helped breathe new life into the station wagon while also blurring the line between it and the traditional SUV. The formula has also proven to be very popular with consumers and the Outback has risen to become one of Subaru’s top sellers. But is the 2024 Subaru Outback still a top seller even as it gradually drifts more into the dark side of SUV sales and some of the negative stereotypes that often accompany them? We wanted to find out. Unchanged …

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Honda 0 Saloon and SUV Prototypes Preview In-House EVs

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Honda is investing big in the world of electrification with the company making several key moves to expand its reach in the world of electrification. The company showed that it was prepared to make the leap with the Saloon and the Space Hub Concepts. The duo were very futuristic looking and showed some of the core building blocks that will define Honda’s new in-house EVs. The company is now showing the next step in these plans with new versions of the 0 Saloon and SUV concepts which take a step closer into full-scale production. Saloon looks stylish, SUV pushes the …

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5 Things to Know about the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta

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1. It’s got a fresh lookThe 2025 Jetta cuts a dashing appearance with a new look front and rear, new alloy wheels and a beautiful new Monterey Blue Pearl exterior 2. It’s got a nice interiorInside gets an upgrade for 2025, With a new dash design, including a three-bar design across the upper dash. And all Jetta models now feature an 8-inch infotainment display.   3. There’s no more stick on the base models. If you like to row your own gears, the sad news is the lower level trims all feature a standard 8-speed automatic. The good news – …

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Iconic Lamborghini Diablo Was Almost Not Produced

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The Lamborghini Diablo is one of the most iconic Lamborghini models of the 1990s with the Diablo emerging as a 1990s icon thanks to its brash styling and powerful engine which helped to set it apart from the Countach that preceded it. While the Diablo is a classic, it almost never made it into production with internal corporate strife nearly killing the car before development even began. Chrysler throws a monkey wrench into the script The history video from Bay Area dealer OTS shows just how much the Diablo went through its development. The Diablo embodied Lamborghini’s fortunes at the …

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2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL review by Ben Lewis

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They may not be as popular as SUV/crossovers, but we’ve had a good run on sedans lately here at Car_Revs_Daily. The Kia Forte GT (soon to be replaced by the K5), and Honda Civic Si have been strong reminders that affordable fun can still be had in small 4-doors. And now we have the 2025 VW Jetta – while it’s not the GLI, a true-high performance European sedan, we’ve just spent our holidays in the luxurious SEL model, and with a fresh look and enhanced value, we’ve had plenty to celebrate! Euro-fresh Looks There’s a definite freshness to the looks, …

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5 Things to Know about the 2025 Honda Civic Si

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1. It’s got a new lookA refreshed front and rear, new design alloys and a new color add up to some visual bite. 2. It’s got new gaugesA new digital gauge display includes an LED shift light system from the Civic Type R that lights up first yellow, and then red as you approach the redline. Very cool! 3. It’s got Google built-inAnother big upgrade for 2025 comes in the form of new Google built-in (a Civic first), which includes apps like Google Assistant, Google Maps and more on Google Play.   4. It stays true to its missionThe Si …

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2025 Honda Civic Si review by Ben Lewis

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You gotta love Honda. There are very few brands that stay really true to their ethos, but Honda is one of them. And maybe the perfect example is the Civic Si. Starting out as the Civic S, and then later the fuel-injected Si, it’s always been about affordable fun, lightweight, quick responses, and oh yeah, a manual transmission. So, the 2025 Civic Si gets a nice refresh inside and out – but the question is, did Honda stay true to course, or have they drifted off in the land crossovers and SUVs? Let’s find out. Hello Fresh Face It’s always …

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5 Things to Know about the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

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1. It sipsThe CCH goes a long way on fuel – a jaw dropping 45 mpg city/ 38 mpg highway, and an EPA combined rating of 42 mpg. 2. It zips With a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder gas engine, and three electric motors, you’ve got an impressive 196 horsepower with plenty of low-end oomph. We’re estimating 0-60 in the low 7-second range, certainly quick. 3. It gripsWith one of the three electric motors on the rear axle, the hybrid features standard electric on-demand all-wheel drive. Great for slick conditions. 4. It’s affordable Starting at $28,395, the Corolla Cross hybrid gives you plenty …

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2024 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid review by Ben Lewis

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If you think about Hybrids, you probably think Toyota, right? I mean they pretty much started the game with the Prius, and have expanded the thrifty powertrain along most of their lineup. Heck, even the new Land Cruiser, Tacoma and Sequoia are rolling some brand of hybrid powertrain. While it’s nice to see those big beasts getting a little more efficient, it seems like the big thrills come from squeezing out every drop from a smaller engine. And one of our favorite super sippers is the Corolla Cross Hybrid, because it puts that efficiency in a smart crossover package that’s …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota Prius Prime – An Enduring Icon

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The Toyota Prius has been an enduring icon of the company’s hybrid technology with the vehicle being a spearhead model in showing that hybrid technology can be an integral part of the driving and ownership experience. The Prime model is the plug-in version and the recent updates that the standard Prius received have helped the Prime transform into a potent value for buyers if they know where to look. Prime SE focuses on value Our tester arrived as a base SE model with Toyota attempting to market this model as a budget-friendly way to enter the PHEV ranks. Unlike its …

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2024 Buick Envista ST Review: Not Quite Luxury, But That’s Okay.

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Buick has long been one of those brands that confuses me. It’s a brand without an identity, with a product strategy best defined as “throw something at the wall and see what sticks.” And sure, Buick has some absolute bangers in its portfolio—especially the GSX, GNX and my personal favorite, the Regal TourX—but these are notable because they simply focused on being awesome rather than conform to brand norms. Throughout my lifetime, Buick has been positioned as a near-luxury brand. An intermediate step between Chevy and Cadillac. But in my personal experience, Buick never quite managed to hit that mark. …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL

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Volkswagen’s Jetta compact sedan has always been a consistent sales generator for the German car giant. This is even as SUVs and CUVs expanded their presence in the market which also put the squeeze on compact cars in the process. The company recently gave the Jetta its most comprehensive update yet for 2025 with VW sharpening the car’s good traits while also addressing some flaws as it attempts to bring balance and newfound poise to the Jetta. Sharper styling enhances Jetta’s personality It’s important to note that since this is merely a mid-cycle update and not an outright reboot, the …

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Volvo’s New Safety Tech: What To Expect By 2035

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Volvo is a car company obsessed with safety. The company is famous for telling its customers that it wants to eliminate fatalities in its vehicles by the end of the decade, allowing it to do what no other firm has done so far. But is such an ambition realistic? Well, if the company’s own timeline is to be believed, then the answer is “yes.” Volvo is highly likely to develop new and profound technology before 2035, much of which seems futuristic, even from today’s AI-dominated perspective. Advanced Sensor Technology The lowest-hanging fruit will likely be the inclusion of more advanced …

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Review: The 2024 Ford Mach-E GT Rally Is A Do-It-All EV Built To Hoon

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As much as I love the comforts of living in a beach-side urban metropolis, there are times when I find it frustrating. Sure, there’s the high cost of everything and the endless traffic in every direction, but I’m not particularly bothered by those. My frustration comes when I get a car like this: the 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Rally. This is a ride inspired by rally racing and comes equipped with the types of upgrades that would suggest that it’s a rowdy good time on loose dirt surfaces—and I’m a rally fan who longs to practice those “lift, turn, …

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5 Things to Know About the 2024 Kia Forte GT

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1. It’s doing a farewell tour Kia has announced that the all-new K4 will replace the Forte GT, so if you want one, 2024 is your last chance. 2. It’s got the goods With a turbo 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder, manual or DCT automatic transmission and sport-tuned suspension, the Forte GT is well equipped for driving fun. 3. It’s old-school cool (part one) While most modern Kia and Hyundai models have dual digital displays, the Forte GT still serves up handsome analog gauges. 4. It’s old-school cool (part two)The conservative lines and large alloy wheels still look good – a direction Honda …

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2024 Kia Forte GT review by Ben Lewis

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We see a lot of bands and performers doing farewell tours. Last chance to enjoy the experience and say a fond goodbye. Well cars can do that, too. And our latest tester is a fine example. Kia recently introduced the all-new K4, to slot below the K5, naturally and the 4 will replace the Forte sedan. That’s kind of bittersweet for us – the new 4 is stylish, a bit larger and roomier and looks more in line with the brand’s latest direction, including everything from the EV6 to the Niro and more. It’s bittersweet because we really liked the …

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2024 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD Review: Surprisingly Great For The Family Roadtrip

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This obviously the first Hyundai Kona review to be posted to this site. But as it’s a car (crossover? SUV?) that’s seemed to charm everyone with its blend of style and practicality, I couldn’t resist having a go in one myself. But to be honest, when I found that my loan would fall on the same week as a family road trip, I was more than a bit nervous. Hyundai’s Kona has always been small—perhaps a single step above entry-level. And while my road trip compatriots would be limited to my wife and our one small child, they both like …

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Jaguar Rolls The Dice On Rebrand, Can It Silence The Doubters?

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Jaguar made waves when it unveiled a bizarre teaser video that initiated a brand reset for the British luxury car company. Images of heritage, history, and performance gave way to images of abstract images, bizarre colors, and a small group of serious/sad-looking models doing strange things. So far, reactions from around the world have been negative with many critics saying that Jaguar has gone off course.  That said, is this brand reset the renewed injection of vigor that Jaguar needs, and if it is, can it help Jaguar be a viable contender in the EV segment as it attempts to …

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Hyundai Gives Elantra N The Wing Treatment With New TCR Edition

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

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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

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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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2024 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring Review – Small In Size. Big On Luxury.

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While Lincoln’s Corsair is technically a compact SUV—it’s based on the similarly compact Ford Escape—thanks to some clever packaging and design tricks, it feels a lot bigger than it actually is. The specific ride you see here is the Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring—the one with the plug-in hybrid electric powertrain—and it just so happens to be my ride for the week. It’s deceptively small As is the case with all of Lincoln’s current vehicles, the Corsair is classically handsome. There’s a simplicity and restraint to the traditional two-box design that’s pleasing to the eye. And while I love some of …

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5 Things to Know About the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

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  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

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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 – 2024 Toyota Supra 45th Anniversary Edition

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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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5 things to know about the 2025 Honda Ridgeline:

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

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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

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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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Hyundai Builds Bonkers RN24 Drift Machine To Serve As Rolling Lab

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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?

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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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MINI Launches First John Cooper Works EVs, Aceman Gets The Call For JCW Duty

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MINI’s push into electrification has done a good job turning heads with the quirky British brand attempting to inject some of the magic that its ICE models are known for into EVs which are typically known for their ability to save the planet versus their performance-driving character. However if the first wave of MINI’s newly launched JCW EVs are to be believed at face value, the brand may be on to something with MINI confirming that it’s not only making an electric JCW version of the familiar Cooper SE but also the recently launched Aceman EV. Cooper JCW EV is …

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

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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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Review: The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE Plugs In To Value

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What do you do if your unique selling proposition is no longer unique? Well, if you’re Toyota, the answer is: you double down. It’s hard to believe that Toyota’s Prius has been around for almost 30 years now. While not the first-ever hybrid (that honor goes to the Lohner-Porsche Electromobile of 1900), it was the second-gen Prius (launched in 2003) that first launched eco-chic into the public consciousness, and in doing so forever cemented its place in popular culture. Today, in 2024, Toyota continues to go all-in on perfecting the hybrid technology first launched with Prius. These days the entire …

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2025 Kia Niro EV Wave review by Ben Lewis

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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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2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 1958 review by Ben Lewis

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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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Lotus Theory 1 Concept Boasts Wild Doors, Central Seating Position

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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

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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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2024 Genesis GV70 3.5T AWD Review – A luxury crossover with sports sedan vibes

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Does anyone here remember the original Infiniti FX35? Launched more than 20 years ago, it was a bold statement from Nissan’s luxury brand and was considered a radical new take on the SUV. A crossover before crossovers were even a thing, the original FX took the engine and rear-wheel drive platform from a G35/350Z, gave it a hatch and some ground clearance, and wrapped it in a shell that was clearly more car than truck. It was a tall luxury sports sedan with some added utility, and its success is directly responsible for the luxury vehicle market as we know …

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2025 Bentley Flying Spur Speed Embraces PHEV Performance

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

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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 Mazda CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus review by Ben Lewis

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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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2024 Genesis G90 AWD 3.5T E-Supercharger Review – This is a luxury sedan for the driven.

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It’s easy to say that words have meanings, but that ignores the reality that words are in an ever-changing state of flux. Those of you old enough to remember the sitcoms of the 1980s are familiar with the trope of the out-of-touch old-timer pondering if a kid’s use of the word “bad” actually meant “good,” or if said kid meant things are bad-bad. And let’s not get into a debate as to whether or not no cap, fr fr or skibidi toilet even qualify as language. What I’m trying to get at, I guess, is that luxury–both as a word …

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

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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 Aston Martin Vanquish Brings V12 Flagship Power To The Supercar Party

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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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2025 Acura MDX Type S Advance review by Ben Lewis

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

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

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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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Motorlux 2024

Monterey Car Week 2024 Events

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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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2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT review by Ben Lewis

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

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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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Road Test Review – 2024 Genesis G70 AWD 2.5T Sport Prestige – Still A Contender

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The sport sedan segment has always been dominated by the Germans with the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, and the Mercedes C-Class being the default trio that buyers were directed to. Genesis attempted to shake things up with the first-generation G70 sedan. The G70 had the look, luxury, and the technology to bring the fight to the Germans but it was dogged by some early teething pains and a manual transmission that was the bane of enthusiasts everywhere. The 2024 model is attempting to add more polish to the model, but is this G70 the model that finally shifts the nameplate …

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More Dealerships Are Resisting EVs and Not Selling Them According to New Study

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It has been a roller coaster year when it comes to EVs with sales and demand slowing down even as some automakers still push full-speed ahead on embracing a full lineup of EVs to replace their ICE-powered models. However, while the companies, the government, and some customers are enjoying the EV revolution, a new report suggests that auto dealerships are not happy and more of them are refusing to sell electric vehicles. A brewing problem According to a brand new survey that polled 250 “dealership leaders” many dealerships are either not excited about selling electric vehicles or only have lukewarm …

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Rolls Royce Embraces The Sun With Bespoke Spectre Semaphore

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Rolls Royce is always known for wowing the crowds with a special vehicle or concept every year at Monterey. The British ultra-luxury car maker is continuing this established tradition further with the unveiling of the one-of-a-kind Spectre Semaphore which is the latest in the company’s lineup of stylish one-off custom creations. Flashy exterior paint highlights the bulk of the changes on Spectre The centerpiece here on the Spectre Semaphore is the flashy yellow exterior paintwork which is called… Semaphore Yellow with Rolls Royce stating that the color was specially designed just for this custom one-off vehicle. The yellow paintwork is …

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Volkswagen Says Electrified GTI Will “More Exciting” To Drive

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It has been over a year since we heard anything new from Volkswagen about the electrified GTI. The company confirmed the ID. GTI concept would go into production in Europe for 2026 but it’s still not known if the model will make its way to the U.S. or not. However, a new report suggests that the production version will be just as exciting to drive as the iconic ICE-powered model and that should be good news for concerned enthusiasts and new buyers alike. More GTI spice is always nice The report came from a recent interview Motor1 did with Thomas …

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2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 2.5T AWD review by Ben Lewis

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2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 2.5T AWD review by Ben Lewis The Hyundai Santa Fe is all-new for 2024, and it’s a gamechanger! We recently tested the Lexus GX 550 and we noted that it’s part of the new trend in SUV design – big, boxy and bold. And while we loved that Lexus, at $70,000-plus, it’s not for the average buyer. But fear not, Hyundai’s got your back with the all-new Santa Fe. Let’s unpack the box! Stunning Looks While the Santa Fe was the first SUV the carmaker brought to market over 20 years ago, it has never …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club – Membership To This Club Only Requires A Need For Speed

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The venerable MX-5 Miata has always been a guaranteed ticket for fun in Mazda showrooms. The tiny two-seater excels in the art of making driving slow fun with the car featuring exceptional handling and a six-speed manual that’s still one of the best that the segment has to offer. However, the MX-5 is also one of the few cars remaining in Mazda’s vehicle lineup as the Japanese automaker focuses on electrification and SUVs. Mazda also promised that a next-generation model is coming but does the current generation model have enough in the tank to help it stay ahead of the …

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Road Test Review -2024 Hyundai Sonata N-Line – A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

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The 2024 Hyundai Sonata received a major mid-cycle refresh as the company surprised some observers by keeping the Sonata around even as it faced growing sales pressure from SUV and CUV models. This refresh brought plenty of updates inside and out and Hyundai even added more zest to the N-Line. But is the N-Line’s performance charms enough to allow it to stand out in a segment that’s still shrinking and losing ground to SUVs and CUVs? Sonata’s futuristic lines will draw plenty of stares The front fascia of the 2024 Sonata will be the first thing that many observers will …

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Road Test Followup – 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Limited AWD – The Sky’s The Limit For EV SUV

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Since its debut back in 2022, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 has emerged as a key lynchpin in Hyundai’s electrification plans with the SUV bringing futuristic style in a package that comes with an impressive degree of baked-in practicality. With the Ioniq 5 N just now entering the market, we wanted to find out if the standard 5 still had the chops to be a good gatekeeper model especially for buyers that are willing to trade in performance for more baked-in practicality. Pixels still reign supreme in Ioniq 5 The exterior styling of the Ioniq 5 continues to be a strong …

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Cadillac Gives CT5-V Blackwing More Track Ready Performance With Precision Package

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The 2025 CT5-V Blackwing was already a potent performance car with the four-door sedan providing performance not only on the street but also out on the track. Cadillac knows that there’s always room for even more performance and it has delivered the goods with an all-new Precision package that sharpens the sedan’s focus and turns it into an even more potent track weapon for those who crave the performance needed to conquer any track weekend when they are not going to work on the weekdays. Tweaked suspension makes this Caddy dance The Precision Package is meant to make the CT5-V …

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Tula’s DMD System Promises to Blend Smoothness and Efficiency Into One Unified Package

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Tula Technology has earned praise and respect for its advanced vehicle propulsion technologies. While the firm got its start in ICE powerplants, the company found newfound vigor when it decided to go all-in on electrification with several new technologies that aim to enhance efficiency and livability. One way it’s attempting to do this is with its Dynamic Motor Drive System (DMD) which is a noticeable step up from Tula’s past efforts. How does the system measure up in the real world? DMD is a smooth operator To find out, Tula invited us to the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan …

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2024 Lexus GX 550 review by Ben Lewis

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Tired of boring SUVs? Buckle up buttercup! The Lexus GX has sort of lived a dual life. When it was first introduced in 2002, most buyers saw a tall, luxurious SUV that was great for hauling the kids around or maybe a great road trip. But for those in the know, it was also a supremely capable off-road vehicle. But at the then-high prices, most weren’t likely to dirty one up. Well, things have changed, partly due to the pandemic, overlanding became a big thing – a really big thing – letting you get away from everyone and still have …

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