Family Cars

11406_2017_Cadenza

Official: 2017 Kia Cadenza Makes NY Debut

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A heavy redesign of the new Cadenza just bowed in NY — and is set to take on the ES350 and perhaps 528i with its all-new cabin, exterior and powertrains. 2017 Kia Cadenza ALL-NEW 2017 KIA CADENZA TAKES THE STAGE AT THE NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW 23/03/16 Second-Generation Cadenza Boasts Luxury Refinements with Expressive Styling, Advanced Technology, and Refined Powertrain New body structure is stronger, yet lighter and more rigid for a more enjoyable driving experience All-new Cadenza takes its sophistication to greater heights with beautifully crafted interior Kia’s first FWD eight-speed automatic transmission improves driving dynamics and efficiency …

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Hawkeye Drives - 2016 Acura MDX Review 1

Hawkeye Drives – 2016 Acura MDX Review

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Hawkeye Drives – 2016 Acura MDX Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman The 2016 Acura MDX is a luxury crossover with seating options for up to seven people, and can be had in front wheel drive, or all-wheel-drive, like the test car. The MDX is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 that puts out a hefty 290 horsepower, and 267 ft. lb. of torque.  Power gets to the pavement via a 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.  That 9-speed is designed to increase gas mileage, which comes in at 19 City and 26 highway (which includes the engine start/stop features).  Our real …

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Road Test Review – 2016 Nissan Altima SL – Fresh Face for World’s-Smoothest Sedan

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One of comedian Amy Schumer’s bits comes to mind as we sit down to write up this Altima review. “You’d bang me, but you wouldn’t blog about it…” The Altima is fresh for 2016 with a mini nip/tuck front and rear, updated tech and even more efficiency for the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This update is a light refresh, and is part of the new automaker strategy of lowering product cycle times from around five years before to less than three now.  Technology and style trends are moving so rapidly that a four-year-old car is easily one of the most …

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Update2 – Road Test Review – 2016 Volvo S60 T5 Inscription

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Update1 – Additional info from Volvo Cars US in Performance article section.  Update2 – Clarifies that S60 Inscription is the new LWB model, and the only one imported from China.   Solid experience in any business can make you a bit cocky.  You know your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats intimately. A brilliant skillset for any field. One that helps you achieve results faster and better than others. In the car reviews business, that often means you think you know a car pretty well… without even driving it.  From other models in the brand’s lineup, from previous generations and from reviews you have read.. …

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2017 Toyota HIGHLANDER 7

2017 Toyota HIGHLANDER Preview – Revised Styling, New V6 and 8-Speed Automatic

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Toyota just pulled the wraps of its revised 2017 Highlander ahead of its public debut in New York. The updates are fairly extensive for such a new truck, starting from the streamlined exterior with new lights, grille and tail for the new model year.  Under the skin, the base Highlanders stick to their trusty 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic. But the sporty new SE trimline, all four varieties of Hybrid and most others get big improvements in the drivetrain.  The 3.5-liter V6 is said to be all-new, but we do not have power or efficiency figures yet.  They are …

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2016 Ford EDGE AWD Titanium 7

Hawkeye Drives! 2016 Ford EDGE Titanium AWD Review

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By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman The Edge was dropped off at my house just after a little snowstorm, which made for some unflattering photos because of the street salt residue all over it, but I was fortunate to be able to test the all wheel drive vehicle in the slippery stuff. The first thing I noticed was that the brakes were very touchy and grabby right from the top of the pedal travel.  In fact it caused the ABS to kick in when on my driveway merely rolling it back to park, and when inching forward to leave the driveway.  Naturally, …

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2017 Audi Q2 82

2017 Audi Q2 – Slides Below Q3 with All-New Design Language, Cheaper Price

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Audi only secured the naming rights to the Q2 and Q4 trademarks in the last few weeks — coming right down to the wire before the car’s global debut in Geneva this week. Alfa Romeo had resisted giving their Q2 and Q4 drivetrain descriptors up until recently, and Audi likely paid big loot for the privilege. So just imagine — this car went through the entire VW/Audi development cycle without a confirmed name! And it does show, a bit, in that the Q2 makes little visual sense in the Audi lineup.  Its design is far more modern than the new …

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Hawkeye Drives - 2016 Dodge Journey Review 14

Hawkeye Drives – 2016 Dodge Journey Crossroad Plus AWD Review

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The Dodge Journey is mostly unchanged from the previous year’s model. In fact, it’s little changed since its introduction back in 2009. There was a refresh in 2011, but that was mostly cosmetic. Beneath the skin, it shows its age a bit as the other competitors in its class, like the Nissan Rogue, Honda CRV, Toyota Rav 4, or the Kia Sorento, have out classed it over the years. The Journey just isn’t as sophisticated as the others, and feels a bit dated. That’s not to say that the Journey doesn’t have some positive attributes. Unlike the Honda, Toyota, and …

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Geneva Debuts – 2016 Subaru XV Concept – Less Hideous, More Production-Ready

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Subaru has been bringing shockingly ugly concept cars to Europe for the big auto shows as long as anyone can remember. We’re equally unimpressed by this concept’s detailing, style and design decisions. As we were with the Viziv before.  Less repugnant… is still repugnant though. The difference is, this new XV Concept model is actually very, very close to production form.  Strip away the fug-nasty orange trims, fake honeycomb LEDs and the pricey paintwork, and we could be looking at the next-gen XV Crosstrek.  Of course, we will also see door handles and a frumpier roofline. The best angle is from the back, …

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2017 Volvo V40 and V40 Cross Country Facelift Revealed

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We’re huge cheerleaders of Volvo’s long-deserved reboot. The new XC90 and S90/V90 point strongly toward the 2020 goals of the firm for its entire range.  And they are off to a racing start!  Sales of the XC90 are through the roof — recording some of the only volume gains the firm has achieved in at least the last decade. The entire line will be fully switched from its current platforms over to the new all-hybrid architectures in the future, but some models will obviously benefit from this before others. The V40 is new enough that it is falling to the …

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2016 Citroen C4 CACTUS Rip Curl Edition – Dark Detailing, GripControl + Glass Roof for Surfer Special

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Here is a pretty cool special-edition that Citroen is bringing to Geneva 2016: the C4 Cactus Rip Curl Edition. This light cosmetic makeover darkens the looks of this funky lifestyle-mobile, adds some funky graphics to the bodysides, and includes the best standard-equipment like a panoramic glass roof and other goodies. But how, one might ask, will a front-drive crossover be the right vehicle for a surf trip? Well, even without AWD or 4×4, the C4 Cactus Rip Curl hopes to park comfortably right on the beach.  Standard mud/snow tires join forces with a new GripControl ESP system that enables more slip …

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2016 Hyundai Tucson Review 1

Hawkeye Drives – 2016 Hyundai Tucson Limited 1.6T Review

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2016 Hyundai Tucson Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman Two years ago, I needed to replace the wife’s aging Hyundai Santa Fe.  Since the new Santa Fe models had grown considerably in size, and she still wanted a small SUV, I went to the dealer to buy the Tucson.  We were a Hyundai family, as both daughters and a son-in-law owned Hyundai various models, and everyone was happy with their vehicles.  But I found the generation II Tucson was the first Hyundai I had ever been disappointed in.  So disappointed, we wound up with a Nissan Rogue, which we’ve been happy …

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2016 Infiniti QX50 Review 34

Road Test Review – 2016 Infiniti QX50

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The QX50 is a crossover that every single carmaker in the world would love to have in their lineup. Just think about its core package: a standard 3.7-liter V6 making 325HP, to the back wheels, through a 7-speed automatic. A balanced chassis, and roaring Z-car-like performance from a base price of just under $35k!  Sign me up. Is the QX50’s rare offering the one you want leading your fleet, though?  Let’s find out… The QX50 is the kind of anti-minivan, performance SUV that typically carries pricing in the 50s as a BMW X4, Mercedes GLC or perhaps Dodge Durango R/T.  What else can be purely rear-drive and …

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2017 Volvo V90 Debuts – 400HP T8 Engine, Low-Roof Look Marks Return to Form

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Huge, lux and low are the name of the game for the new 2017 Volvo V90 wagon! Sharing its new platform and powertrains with the wildly-successfully 2016 XC90 SUV and upcoming S90 limo, the new V90 is a major step back into Volvo’s core groove. The looks of the machine are actually far more successful than the S90 sedan, which has some seriously curious tail styling marring excitement about its arrival later this year to US showrooms. 2017 Volvo S90 Where the S90 looks a bit funky, however, the V90 relishes its long-hood, low-roof ethos.  Even the back glass is …

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Porsche MACAN PD600M Widebody by Prior Design – Chopster Looks, Easy Pricing

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  Prior Design is a favorite for the gorgeous enhancements they provide to a huge range of exotic cars.  The Macan is a fave too!  Any SUV that can do an accidental four-wheel-drift when making a U-turn is a hero car for us!!   And you are forgiven for thinking these customs are $100k or more atop whatever the base price of the car is — a la Brabus or Mansory, among others.  Those firms are known for one-off and bespoke carbon-fiber creations, full fender swaps and general re-engineering on a very dramatic scale. Prior Design is more of a …

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2016 OPEL Mokka X Previews Upcoming Buick Encore Refresh

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  Fantastic updates for the Opel Mokka X are set for a Geneva debut next month, and they bode extremely well for its American twin, the Buick Encore! We really like the Encore. It’s punchy turbo engine delivers admirable thrust for the segment, while its very good Quiet-Tuned refinement is a huge step up from the Chevy Trax or Jeep Renegade. This refresh brings an all-new nose, LEDs front and rear, and a total redesign of the cabin tech. The center stack — long the Encore’s sore point — is fresh with a giant new touchscreen and streamlined climate/audio controls. …

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Road Test Review - 2016 Subaru Legacy 3

Road Test Review – 2016 Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited

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2016 Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman   In the late 60’s Subaru came to the United States.  Like other Japanese brands at the time, Subaru’s were small, oddly styled, and considered quirky, compared to US autos.  In the early 1970’s Subaru chose to set themselves apart by introducing all-wheel-drive.  And while they didn’t invent AWD, but at that time, if a customer wanted a vehicle with all-wheel-drive, they were pretty much limited to Jeep products, or truck models.   By offering all-wheel-drive and introducing economical, small displacement boxer-style engines, Subaru cars appealed to an audience interested in …

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2016 Chrysler 300S and 200S Alloy Editions – Sport Chassis Tunes Now Featuring Titanium and Dark Bronze Finishes

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  The main Chrysler trim letter to lust after?  C, right? For 2016-and-beyond style, the coolest Chryslers are now definitely wearing the S! Bold pronouncement, perhaps, but over the last few years the 200C and 300C have become the lux and powerful versions of the standard models.  The S twins, however, are the badass ones with mean night styling and performance-tuned handling — regardless of engine. To drive that point home even more explicitly, Chrysler just pre-launched its coolest S models yet: the 300S and 200S Alloy Editions. They are gorgeous and easily the most SRT-infused cars in the Chrysler …

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Road Test Review – 2016 Buick REGAL GS

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  We want to love the Regal GS. Its looks are crisply European, as is its dashing corner grip and unflappable high-speed poise.  But remember the old Pirelli slogan “Power is nothing without Control” ? Well, the Regal GS inspires a flip in that phrase: Control is nothing without powerrrrr. Since writing up our first test impressions of the 2015 Regal GS with “Deeply Disappointing” in the headline, we have had more than ample chances to change our tune. An invite to a Buick Regal GS track day appeared out of thin air, and then a fresh 2016 model for …

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Road Test Review – 2016 Toyota Camry XSE

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2016 Toyota Camry XSE Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman For decades now, The Toyota Camry has been one of the best-selling family sedans in America.  It isn’t because it does everything better than the competition, but rather it does everything well, and has built up a reputation for reliability, quality, and value.  For folks who have a hard time making a decision because they’re fearful of making a bad one, the Camry is always going to be a safe choice and one that won’t foster buyer’s remorse. It’s always easy for journalists to forget that the vast majority of the …

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2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4MATIC

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 – Air-Sprung Crossover In US Dealers Now! $45k Pricing, RWD or 4Matic + 9-Sp Auto

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The new GLC just started arriving to Mercedes dealerships here in the USA — and seems like an outstanding all-new SUV for the brand.  The GLK and its boxy look is exiting the lineup of a half-dozen ‘Benz jeeps’ this year, making room for everything from the baby GLA to this GLC, up through the GLE and GLE Coupe and the top GLS for 2017. The GLC, as its name implies, is aligned in shape and tech with the C-Class. This brings a massive set of benefits for performance drivers — particularly in its standard rear-drive setup. Just one engine and …

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2017 Jaguar XF-S V6 - USA Media Drive 58

5.0s, 380HP 2017 Jaguar XF-S V6 – USA Media Drive Gallery + Visualizer

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Check out this stunning new design via 100 media drive photos from Sedona, Arizona. The best part of the new design?  Bringing the XF-R’s visual heat to all four engines in the US lineup. Yep: two V6 tunes and even a brand-new turbodiesel for 2017. The 2.0-liter turbo four is expected back in the USA offering for 2017, sliding a few grand cheaper than the $52k base of the new 2016 XF V6s. Both the XF 35t with 330HP and the XF-S with 380 are available with rear or AWD.  All scream to 60-mph in 5.2-seconds or quicker, too.  Mighty impressive.  The …

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325HP, V6TT 2017 Ford FUSION SPORT Leads Refreshed Midsize Sedan Lineup

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A fresh look and new tech throughout the Fusion for 2017! Three EcoBoost engines, a new V6 Sport powertrain is the most powerful midsize Ford sedan in ages — delivering its 325-horsepower and 350-pound-feet of torque through an AWD chassis. All in search of a ~5.5-second sprint to 60-mph — a class-quickest sprint speed! This is huge news versus the previous 240-horsepower EcoBoost that tops out the current Fusion lineup. New nose and tail designs integrate the latest LEDs for a fairly chic look on all sides — if a bit too Focus-like up front in these initial teasers. Very cool …

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Audi A4 allroad quattro

2017 Audi A4 Allroad – $50k Ski Wagon Set for Fall 2016 USA Arrival – Blah Exterior, but Hoorah Interior

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  The A4 Allroad has carved a nice little niche for itself in the US market, where it replaced the standard A4 Avant among most shoppers seeking a low and sporty wagon.  The current Allroad will gain all the new tech and style of the A4 sedan, but wears a more butch stance all around.  A very macho nose redesign brings vertical grille slats, some rough-rough fender flares and even a brushed-alloy chin spoiler in the nose. We are trying to get on-board with this next-gen A4 appearance.  Really trying. And the Allroad has generally been a great showcase of …

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2016 Audi h-Tron Quattro Concept 27

2016 Audi h-Tron Quattro Concept – Hypercomplex Tech Showcase Headed for Sale as $100k Tesla Rival as 2018 Q6

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Audi’s big news for the Detroit show?  The new 2017 A4 and Q7 — which are set for arrivals to US showrooms in the next few months. Alongside those dull-looking production cars come massive cabin tech enhancements, efficiency boosts and all-new powertrains. A bit more exciting on the appearance front?  This new h-Tron Quattro Concept. Roughly previewing the size of an upcoming Q6 crossover, this latest prototype shows a production-intent hydrogen-electric SUV.  And boy is is complex: multiple tanks of hydrogen power advanced electrics for a range of nearly 400 miles, a 0-60-mph sprint under 7-seconds, and AWD grip just …

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2017 Chrysler PACIFICA 23

2017 Chrysler PACIFICA Is All-New Minivan – PHEV Hybrid, Luxury and Tech to Leapfrog Sienna/Odyssey

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Welcome to the next Town & Country: the all-new Pacifica! This name-swap is quite justified when you take a peek at the seriously all-new platform, drivetrain, interior and exterior of the next-gen Chrysler minivan. The impressive details abound from every seat: the seven-seater has a stunningly advanced offering for families from July of this year when the new vans hit showrooms. What is the big deal, beyond a very swish new exterior design? Where to begin!  The biggest news is the first-ever plug-in hybrid offering in the van segment. Dubbed simply the Pacifica Hybrid, the EV tech is quite sophisticated. Not …

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2016 Buick Envision Driving Front

2016 Buick ENVISION Is New 5-Seat Crossover – Standard Turbo to Rival Audi Q5 – Arrives in April

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The 2016 Buick Envision is a pretty huge part of an upcoming Buick product onslaught: the 2017 LaCrosse and Cascada cabrio are the other hotties new to the showroom floor. New to the brand ethos in general? A sexy expectation of future products like an AWD, V6TT variant on the Cadillac ATS Coupe/Chevy Camaro platform like the AVISTA concept. The dreamers among us noted right away: the AVISTA looks like an ideal basis for a next-gen GNX around 2019.  The Envision hopes to make its Chinese-import status an afterthought for US shoppers — through the sheer strength of its luxury …

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Mercedes-Benz New Year´s Reception, Detroit 2016

Update1 – 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class – Official Debut of Ultra-Posh New Cabin, All-New Exterior

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This is it!  The 2017 E-Class in all its official glory. A few variants shown here in this official launch packette: from the most trad to the ultra-mod AMG Sport in bright red. A frozen grey E400 quatromattico GDM model is the wildest shown so far, but points strongly toward the new E63’s menace on the roads. The revamp outside is exceptionally sleek and organic; new flowing lines for the glasshouse and every nose and tail element replace some carry-over elements on the current car. All-new is the slightly more formal C-pillar angle than previously shown: a nice nod to …

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Road Test Review – 2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo

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2016 Kia Optima SX Turbo Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman Midsize family sedans are a huge segment of the automobile business, and it’s a hotly contested space.  The Kia Optima is a strong player, and getting stronger each year, with improvements and even more standard content.  It has to keep improving in order to compete with the likes of a Toyota Camry & Avalon, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Mazda 6, or Nissan’s Altima. The 2016 Optima has been redesigned inside and out, and the result is an outstanding automobile, that ranks right up there with the best in the class. …

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Chevrolet Unveils 2017 Bolt EV at CES

Barra Delivers! 2017 Chevrolet BOLT EV – $30k Price and 200+ Mile Range Should Worry i3, Leaf and Prius PHEV

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Disbelief?  Awe?  Wonder? Trying to find the right description to pick my jaw up off my desk. The new Chevy Bolt EV is almost surreal at its CES reveal this week.  Just a year ago, the Bolt concept wowed Detroit with its big range promises, practical shape and interesting cabin tech.  Few people — this author included — ever expected a production car to be so close on the horizon. But here it is, folks!  The massive promises from General Motors about their future electric product plans were not just hot air! The 2017 Bolt EV promises a 200-mile-plus battery range …

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OP_ED: Meet the $25B Microbus – 2016 Volkswagen Budd-E – EV Van Concept Begs Sympathy for Poor, Mistreated VW

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Here is the seventh Volkswagen concept trying to re-invent the microbus. The difference?  This microvan may actually be produced for limited sale in EV-heavy markets like the US west coast, Atlanta and Washington DC. Really? Not for profits, but as a knee-jerk reaction to being caught lying/cheating.  So yes, the Budd-E might make it to US showrooms in some decontented form. Perhaps as soon as 2019 for the 2020 model year.  But don’t bet on it. Typically, Volkswagen has claimed a reborn van was a non-starter because it was impossible to make its bluff original face with a front-engine layout.  (They …

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Road Test Review – 2016 Lexus RX350 F Sport AWD

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2016 Lexus RX 350AWD F Sport Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman   Sixteen years ago Lexus introduced us to the RX – a midsize luxury SUV that seated 5 people, had a very usable rear cargo area, and was based on a car chassis, so it drove more like a car than a truck.  It had a pleasant ovoid or jelly bean shape, and was reasonably priced.  It struck a chord with the buying public, and quickly became Lexus’ best-selling vehicle, and it has remains their top selling vehicle as it now launches the fourth generation for 2016.  The RX …

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HD Road Test Review – 2016 GMC Terrain DENALI AWD V6 – Swanky Refresh for Right-Sized SUV

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GMC’s best-seller has been tearing up the sales rulebooks since its launch in 2009. We’ve admired its huge back seat and very affordable $24k base price from afar, but never from behind the wheel. The GMC Terrain welcomes a light refresh for 2016: new styling outside and new tech in the cabin helps the family favorite be even more competitive in the mid-size SUV class. And while the upgrades outside are fairly light for most trims, the new LED DRLs up front do wonders for the truck’s appeal on the road. The biggest news for the 2016 Terrain is the …

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Road Test Review – 2016 Toyota AVALON Touring

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2016 Toyota Avalon Touring Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman We recently tested a 2015 Toyota Avalon, the first Avalon we had tested in quite a few years.  And the full size car impressed us with its roominess, performance, and its luxury look and feel. But before I had a chance to write the review, the 2016 model became available, so I decided to wait a little bit, and write about that one, to also report on the subtle changes for the 2016 model year. This year, the Avalon’s grill gets a bit larger, and sports a little downturn at the …

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2016 Lexus RX450h F Sport AWD 93

HD Road Test Review – 2016 Lexus RX450h F Sport AWD – A Plush Rush?!

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The new Lexus RX is one of the most eagerly-anticipated new SUVs for 2016.  This redesign proves the RX can be a style leader even while outselling entire luxury brands like Volvo and Jaguar in the USA. So far, the RX has been so ubiquitous on the roads that any sense of chic sexiness was seriously diluted.  The 2016 model wears all-new styles and new trimlines to bring variety to the efficiency, lux ride comfort and versatility its 2-million owners love so much. The upgrades for 2016 are extensive — with the entire cabin, exterior and some drivetrain parts refreshed …

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2016 Volvo XC90 T8 R-Design Flagships Arriving Now – 472 Torques, Priced from $69k

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The new Volvo XC90 is set to become the brand’s biggest-ever launch. Buried in preorders and scrambling to get the HOT new truck into buyer hands, Volvo started production of the new seven-seater with exclusively T6 engines and the luxury trimlines. These are fab, of course, but not technically the coolest or fastest new XC90. Nope, that honor definitely goes to the 400HP T8 R-Design!  Running a turbo PHEV drivetrain, the XC90 T8 will become the world’s first plug-in hybrid SUV with seven seats. It will also be the quickest XC90 ever — V8 included. How?  This incredible twin-engine drivetrain …

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HD Road Test Review – 2016 Lincoln MKX – Tops New Lexus RX with Style, Power and Panache

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Lincoln MKX beats Lexus RX. You read it here first! True story. As one of the only car reviewers to have driven both 2016 models, we are surprised to report that the MKX is the better machine. First Drive Review – 2016 Lincoln MKX What a difference a few years can make! If you had told me in 2005 that Lincoln would be making globally-competitive cars, four SUVs and debuting exclusive tech like the new 3.0-liter V6TT making 400HP in the 2017 MKZ, we would have laughed right in your face. Sure, Lincolns have been “okay” for a while now …

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2017 Buick LaCrosse – All-New Luxury Limo Is Truly Plush Inside, Wider and Lower Outside

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  2017 Buick LaCrosse   Buick Introduces All-New 2017 LaCrosse Leaner and sleeker with effortless technology   LOS ANGELES – The all-new 2017 Buick LaCrosse introduces the new face of Buick, influenced by the dramatic cues of the award-winning Avenir concept unveiled at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit and inspired by a Buick concept from the mid-20th century.   The LaCrosse, which goes on sale in early summer 2016, features a new grille design with a large opening distinguished by the return of a three-color – red, silver and blue – Buick tri-shield insignia, accented by …

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2017 Sportage SX Turbo

2017 KIA Sportage SX Turbo Debut – Quad LEDs + Euro Handling Focus

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The new Sportage is here in USA form, which we pleased to say looks exactly like the min-Cayenne of the Euro GT-Line rangetopper. The poshest trim for the USA is the SX Turbo AWD, as shown here. 2017 KIA Sportage SX Turbo PREVIOUS KIA’s push to excel globally is ramping up nicely. Frankfurt, California and Korea-based teams are now aligned to make the most of each area’s strengths. Korea as the lead manufacturing hub/supplier base, Cali as a tech and design center of excellence, and the European R&D division taking a much bigger role in vehicle development. It is a …

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2017 INFINITI QX30 Official Debut – Stylish Crossover Hits Showrooms in June

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Official reveal today of the crossover Infiniti Q30 — the QX30! Infiniti has been teasing these twins via a series of concepts for what feels like years. The finish, production product shows why it took so long — with concept-like detailing, fabulous surface tension in the body shape, and a high-quality interior. Infiniti is product that the cabin of the QX30 shares virtually nothing touchable or visible with its Mercedes GLA platform-mate. In fact, the QX30 runs a bit more rugged and tough look inside overall than even its Q30 street sibling. Performance and power should match buyer needs in …

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Ford SEMA 2015 Custom TRUCKS 11

Ford SEMA 2015 Custom TRUCKS – Galpin F-150 in Gulf Racing Livery Is Best of Group

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Some really cool custom Edges and Explorers join the F-150 wolfpack from Ford for SEMA 2015. Initial favorite is off-roader Explorer or the Galpin Auto Sports F-150. Wearing a widebody and custom PPG paints in Gulf Racing colors… the truck is just a few logos and Raptor badges from being the ultimate in HOT new metal headed out to Vegas. No word on if the custom trucks will include a Pepto and Z-pack for your well-being after a few days in Vegas… =]   Ford SEMA 2015 Custom TRUCKS Edge Two Popular Ford SUVs Storm SEMA with Wild Versions for …

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Ford SEMA 2015 Custom Cars 39

Ford SEMA 2015 Cars Recap – Ice Nine Mustang GT350-EcoBoost Wins Hearts/Minds

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What’s your favorite among this dozen-plus group of Ford SEMA customs? After seeing the finished products, we’d say our favorite is the Ice Nine Mustang widebody. Running a 475-horsepower EcoBoost turbo and GT350 nose pieces, the race-ready fender extensions with exposed rivets are particularly sexy and on-trend for 2016. The Cobra Jet is looking faster and louder than ever in its new-body form, but its skinny front tires make it less of a road-legal dream car than others. PREVIOUS Ford is going even more bananas for SEMA this year than usual!  We have at least two dozen custom Fords headed …

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2016 Mazda CX-3 GT Review 3

2016 Mazda CX-3 GT – HD First Drive Video + Photoshoot

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The CX-3 looks incredible in person and drives very nicely as well. The matching LED projectors, DRLs and foglamps are a particular highlight in this compact crossover segment. The cabin, while narrow and slightly tight in back, delivers an excellent drive position and effective Eco/Normal/Sport drive modes. We have major gripes with Mazda USA at the moment, so are holding off recommending the CX-3 beyond this video brief. 2016 Mazda CX-3 GT – HD First Drive Video 2016 Mazda CX-3 GT Review

2016 Lexus RX350 Colors Gallery Inside and Out + 80 New Pics of New Eminent White Pearl Paint

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Best exterior color for the new 2016 Lexus RX?  Eminent White Pearl! Devoted an insane amount of hours today editing just half of the RX photos we have to share — and eager to show off this gorgeous set of the RX350 in new colors inside and out. Eminent White Pearl is the name of this breathtakingly beautiful new white. The semi-gloss finish really brings all the curves and creases of the RX’s new bodywork to life. Inside, this RX350 features the new Noble Brown leather choice, paired with the Grey Sapele woodwork. These are just one choice among the …

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First Drive Review – 2016 Lexus RX350 FWD Luxury Package + Pricing and 100 New Photos

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  The 2016 RX is huge news: an ultra-modern makeover adds style, tech and efficiency to the all-star crossover from Lexus. We had a chance to drive all five trimlines last week, and have some great news to report about the handling crispness, exterior design and cabin comfort. But also some fairly important gripes about the performance and style execution of the new RX — which can leave you slightly confused versus the BMW X5. Let’s start with the highest-volume model: the RX350 front-wheel-drive. As we can see in the pricing charts below, this $42k base price is the most …

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2017 Honda CLARITY FUEL CELL 2

Honda’s New Car Can Power Your House for a Week? Introducing Jamie Hanninen

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Honda has been working on hydrogen-fueled cars for several decades now, but hadn’t settled on a design they felt was worthy of releasing to the public until now. The Clarity Fuel Cell was just unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, and it packs an amazing punch, even though it looks like a standard four-door sedan. It Emits Only Water Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are so clean that the only thing that flows from the tailpipe is water. The cars rely on basic chemistry to convert hydrogen into power. The hydrogen enters the chamber, and is introduced to an anode. Its …

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2016 Hyundai Tucson – Animated Colors Visualizer – All 8 Shades From Every Angle

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A brief spin in the loaded Tucson Limited with its all-new turbo and dual-clutch automatic instantly confirms this will be one of the hottest-selling crossovers of 2016. It drives exceptionally well, looks premium and fairly European in its design outside and in, and is priced from just $23k at its cheapest trim. We’ve created an animated colors visualizer to give you a sense of the eight shades available on the 2016 Tucson, plus pricing and photos from the first drive video published yesterday. Style-wise, there are major incentives to move up from the base SE spec: it is the only …

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First Drive Review, Video and Pricing – 2016 Hyundai TUCSON Limited 1.6T AWD DCT

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First spin in the new Tucson and verrrry impressed!  The loaded test car ran a superb turbo 1.6 through a new dual-clutch 7-speed automatic — creating a bit of a GTI in a crossover shell. Granted, as you can see in the pricing by trimline below, the Tucson does get a bet pricey with the upgraded engine and automatic, plus another grand for AWD. Base for the Tucson Limited is $32k. Which would seem crazy for the old Tucson. But this new model is completely redone — now becoming the widest car in its class and one that feels massive …

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First Drive Review – 2016 Honda HR-V – Looks Cool, Drives Poorly with Zero Power

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    Really wanted to love the new HR-V as an emblem of new Honda mojo. But after a brief drive, the HR-V is a huge letdown and not in the top five cars in the compact-crossover segment. How to go from excitement to extreme aversion in just an hour on the road? The HR-V is perhaps not as bad as it seems when I end this drive video with “Hate It.” But Honda desperately needs to ace at least four big criteria for its next-gen models, this HR-V and new Civic included: — Design — Drive — Cabin tech …

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2017 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 vs Cookie Monster: Battle of the NomNomNoms

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The new Mercedes-Benz GL is out — and is packing a powerful suffix for the 2017 model year: S~! The power and lure of the S-Class is certainly notable in its current sexy-Benz styling generation, so the name change does not seem as capricious as Infiniti or Cadillac’s recent and current botching of the name schemes. So atop the GLE and GLC lives this new GLS. The facelift is deeper than some of its recent LED upgrades for 2014 or so, but not exactly radical on the design front. It will take a real socialite to know the new trucks …

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First Drive Videos! 2016 Lexus RX350 and RX450h F Sport

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Huge drive day with the all-new 2016 Lexus RX lineup!  Very, very impressive design upgrades create a sexy and macho look, while the chiseled panels and floating glasshouse make the new RX look dramatically lower and wider than ever before. The new masculinity of the RX outside is reflected inside and on full throttle as well. Huge batch of photos and observations to share in the full reviews — but these three videos and 20 preview images are cool enough to share on the same day!  Near realtime media coverage! =] The drive videos below include a drive of the …

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Ford SEMA 2015 Custom TRUCKS Preview – Baja F-150 in Gulf Racing Colors Leads Pack

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Some really cool custom Edges and Explorers join the F-150 wolfpack from Ford for SEMA 2015. Initial favorite is off-roader Explorer or the Galpin Auto Sports F-150. Wearing a widebody and custom PPG paints in Gulf Racing colors… the truck is just a few logos and Raptor badges from being the ultimate in HOT new metal headed out to Vegas. No word on if the custom trucks will include a Pepto and Z-pack for your well-being after a few days in Vegas… =]   Ford SEMA 2015 Custom TRUCKS Preview Edge Two Popular Ford SUVs Storm SEMA with Wild Versions …

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Ford SEMA 2015 Custom CARS Preview – Rally Focii, Street Fiestas and 900HP EcoBoost Mustang!?

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  Ford is going even more bananas for SEMA this year than usual!  We have at least two dozen custom Fords headed to the Vegas aftermarket equipment show — and that is just what we know so far. Last year included more than a few surprises closer to the event. Among the eight custom Mustangs headed to the Ford SEMA stand, the BISIMOTO turbo might be the most tempting and body performance upgrade. The EcoBoost in question, by the way, is not the V6TT — but the Mustang EcoBoost’s stock 2.3-liter twin-scroll turbo! A full carbon-fiber exterior looks sweet and …

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2016 Lexus GS350 Facelift Brings GSF and RC-Inspired Nose +4WS and Active Intake

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The revised Lexus 2016 GS350 is offically sexy in this ultra white paintwork and fresh detailing all around. Regardless, we love the results of new-shape LED headlights, LED arrowhead DRLs flush-mounted within the painted bumper, and all-new lower bumper and grille look. This is the GS350 RWD, but an AWD model continues with a $2k bump in price from the $49k base for the GS lineup. We also expect a revised F Sport trim style for both the GS350 and the GS450h for 2016, as well as for the GS200t discussed below. The fresh GS450h was recently seen at the …

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2015 DATSUN Go-Cross Concept Previews High-Ride, Low-Price Future Crossover

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The Datsun brand’s revival is still at full speed, with a variety of models for sale in launch markets around India and Asia. Now we have a look at the brand’s next stage, a high-riding crossover. This preview shows us two things, both pretty impressive for a design concept: — the Datsun face and overall design style translate well onto an SUV shape — while this Go-Cross is dripping with swanky LEDs and gloss-black detailing, the parts underneath appear production-ready in most places. Datsun will certainly be producing this car, by the way. No coyness about that from the Nissan …

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2016 Renault TALISMAN – Pricing and Trims from €27,900

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Updated 11.1.15 with French prices and new photos.         Welcome to the top of the Renault range: the new Talisman sedan. This fresh D-segment saloon is a larger and more plush big brother to the Laguna — promising world-class comfort, design, luxury and technology. All with a completely fresh design and dimensions to compete with the BMW 5 series. A total length of 4.85-metres is fairly gigantic for a front-drive luxury sedan in France. As the segment’s built-in government and livery driver pool looks to Germany for their fleets, the large car market in France is fairly …

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Tokyo Auto Show 2015 – Mega Gallery in 230 New Photos

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Some sweet strange at the 2015 Tokyo Auto Show! Fave reveals include the NC2020 in red, plus the Yamaha Sports Ride concept — which is a mini Pagani for all intents and purposes. Of course, the Mazda RX-Vision is also a fantastic indication of future turbo rotaries returning to the Japanese supercar battle of 2018.  Picture it: GT-R vs Supra FT-1 vs NSX vs RX-7 Turbo! On the other side of the power spectrum, the Honda S660 and Daihatsu Copen have potential fresh competition beyond the Yamaha above in a mini Toyota sportscar: the S-FR Concept.  Or the mysterious Kode-9 …

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2015 Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo 7

2015 Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo is Yuppy-Chic Hydrogen PHEV

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Tokyo has long been the global auto show to see some weird, wild and wacky stuff. Futuristic dreams on four wheels, usually with brightly lit color-schemes and adaptive video screens to boot. The show this year is still tech-rich, but a bit more somber than previous years. A firm production focus appears to be the concept-car focus so far. But here glides in an unlikely hero for wild and crazy concept cars, none other than Mercedes-Benz!? The Vision Tokyo is a funky style wagon aimed at chic yuppies stuck in traffic. As opposed to chic oldies in the back of …

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Audi RS 7 Sportback performance

2016 Audi RS6 and RS7 Debut New Performance Spec: +45HP and +45MPH = 190MPH vMax!

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Quickest and fastest Audi’s of all time? Certainly among four-door models! The just-revealed top spec for the already-mighty RS6 and RS7 focuses under the hood, so delivers its S-Model-smacking performance upgrades in fairly subtle fashion. Certainly when static, the RS6 and RS7 performance (low-case P in Performance is on purpose by Audi) just looks like a loaded existing model. One featuring the largest forged alloys available, matte silver detailing and quattro 3D script in the front bumper. Versus even the RS6 Plus from before, however, the V8TT in the new ‘performance’ trims is mighty impressive. Power leaps up to 605-ponies …

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Chevrolet Reveals 2015 SEMA Fleet: 6-Pack of RED LINE Concepts

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Pretty awesome little pack of Chevys heading to SEMA! The concept theme this year is Red Line — which is a light aesthetic upgrade for a variety of models using factory accessories and DIY-style customizations. Dark trims, LED-lit emblems, huge alloys and blacked-out details are a recurring element on the Malibu, Sonic RS, Camaro Red Line, Silverado, Colorado and the Trax! Enjoy this exclusive preview with 100 or so images of the yet-to-be-seen Red Line Series for SEMA 2015.   Chevrolet 2015 SEMA RED LINE Concepts Chevrolet Red Line Concepts Showcase Latest Accessories Themed collection highlights production, concept components   …

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2016 Nissan Patrol NISMO Storms Dubai with 30HP Bump + Bilsteins, Rays 22s and Custom Exterior

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  Here is an exciting truck that is certainly not headed stateside in its current form: the 2016 Nissan Patrol NISMO for the Middle Eastern market. The upgrades are actually pretty awesome, despite just a jump to 428-ponies from the stock 400 even. The 5.6-liter V8 is absolutely a gem in 400HP form, so with freer intakes and exhaust, the engine is eager to deliver even more smiles-per-gallon via this new NISMO tune. Chassis changes are fairly extensive, with a custom handling setup, Bilstein gas shocks and new Rays 22-inch forged alloys on the options list. Custom exterior with all-new …

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2016 Honda Pilot Elite AWD – Photo Flyaround Shows Classy LEDs, All-New Look

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  Updated 10.18.15 with 37 New Photos The 2016 Pilot is nearly unrecognizable. It is completely new from all sides, with the next-gen Honda face and LEDs brightly glowing front and rear. While the silhouette of the new Pilot’s nose, windshield and glasshouse is extremely rakish now, the dimensions also appear to have grown quite a bit. The second row and rear overhang are particularly jumbo in this new design from the exterior. Inside, of course, you get the benefits of that large and in-charge profile.   The new 2016 Honda Pilot is here! With a striking new design that …

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All-new BMW X1 and 340i launch drive in Chihuahua, MX

USA-Spec 2016 BMW 340i Stretches Turbo Legs in Copper Canyon

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Copper Canyon, Mexico is exceptionally beautiful — a perfect place for the launch drives of the new X1 and the new 340i M Sport xDrive. Located in northern Mexico’s Chihuahua state but far from the Gulf of California, the mountainous region is a cool 500-miles from the salty blue water and gorgeous beaches that typically draw tourists south of the border. So what is the draw? A thousand-year-old mining trail and original indigenous trade route — one running up from central America and up through similar places in Colorado. Not just copper from these hills, but something much brighter.  Gold! …

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2016 BMW X1 xDrive28i Arrives in November with Pricing from $35k – Colors + Real-Life Photos

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The new X1 is in the wild, but you might not know it from first glance. It is a majorly convincing upgrade from the fairly low-slung and diminutive model. Sure, we loved the way the BMW X1 M Sport handled a track day. But it was quite low-slung and a bit too wagonlike, apparently, for mass consumption. The cab-backward look continues for 2016 in this second-gen model, but the entire visage grows up, out and across. The new X1 will still carve canyon tarmac, but now looks much more comfortable in rusty trails. The new model is basically a super-chunky …

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Track Drive Review – 2016 Buick Regal GS – Flypaper Handling Is Now $3k Cheaper!

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Autobahn Country Club might be my “Happy Place.” Recalling this track’s frisky bends, howling tires and full-throttle straightaways brings a smile instantly. Buick invited us to flog their performance flagship, the 2016 Regal GS, around the Illinois track and autocross to show off the machine’s latest updates: new colors and a price that is much more approachable. How approachable!?  A cool $3,300 off the base price for the GS takes the entry level to $35k versus near $38k before.  Three drivetrains continue for 2016: FWD auto, FWD manual and AWD automatic. The GS AWD we tested out still comes in …

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2016 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription STUNS in Person: Worlds-Best Cabin and Q7-Smacking Exterior Beauty

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  As you may know, we’ve followed the development of the all-new Volvo XC90 with a magnifying glass — loving the design vision, tech solutions and family-first attitude of this first in a new series of Volvo models. Meeting the truck in person this week was a seriously competitive affair. Journalists were literally running to reserve it for a quick spin every time it became available. Just an exceptionally short test drive as a result — without the chance to take a video or really get on-road impressions. Even so, we do have a gorgeous set of photos of the …

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2016 Chevrolet MALIBU 2

2016 Chevrolet MALIBU 2.0T – Pre-production First Look Inside and Out

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  Busy travel week with lots of incredible first drives, track blasts and world premieres to share! One highlight in a packed lot of all-new 2016 models? One we could not actually drive… but were thrilled to photograph inside and out. You’re looking at a knockout style that is premium, wide and low in the flesh. The Malibu shown here is deeply sexy from all sides — something we have never uttered about the current car or even the big-hit 2007 model. Yep, this all-new ‘Bu is quite a looker. A grey and overcast early AM for photos darkened some …

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2016 Tesla Model X – Mouth-Watering Tech and Speed; Sleeker Nose for $140k 7-Seater

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Watch this on The Scene. WIRED drive video embed alpha Tesla unveiled the Model X last night with some seriously impressive tech specs, cabin features and range estimates. But first: the nose. This is the biggest and most dramatic change versus the near-production models previewed at SEMA and elsewhere over the last three years. Replacing the gloss-black grille shell is a smooth one-piece painted bumper. Just a sliver of black grille remains up at the hood edge. This black grille houses the sharp Tesla T badge, making a point into the bodycolored bumper below. EXTERIOR The look is quite unique …

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2015 Scion xB 686 Parklan Edition Closes Boxcar Books with Apres-Ski Special

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 Mark my words… we are going to miss the Scion xB in a few years. Square vehicle always seem out of step and in need of replacement with something sleeker, but the results have almost always caused a backswing in hipster tastes. Look at the VW Vanagon, original Jeep Cherokee or even the new Honda Pilot. Boxy is foxy. This xB takes the look to a fantastic style peak in a final special: the 686 Parklan Edition. A unique cocoa bean exterior is a deep metallic brown, accented by gloss black for the wheels and trims outside. Slight red-lined accents …

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HD Road Test Review – 2016 FIAT 500X Trekking is Bei Bei-Cute but Drives Euro-Sharp

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INTRO Really wanted to incorporate Best of Awards  into the headline for this new Fiat 500X — but just ran out of space. What a stellar machine! With a drive experience recalling BMW’s and Audi’s, plus a cabin with fantastic Euro feel, the 2016 500X is an absolute gem from its $20k base price. Over a week of flogging the 500X Trekking in full sport mode glory, we fell hard for the 500X’s charms. To the point that even the design of the nose started to feel familiar and cute! As cute as Bei Bei the Panda cub at the …

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Updated with New Photos – 2016 Nissan ALTIMA SR Leads Refreshed Lineup

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Big reveals at New York’s Climate Week 2015!  After the Passat launch last night, the new Altima is next today. Impressive tweaks to the design front and rear, tech inside, plus drive manners headline the refresh for Nissan’s best-selling vehicle. Efficiency takes a huge jump up to 39-mpg highway for the standard 2.5-liter engine models thanks to a reduction in aero drag to 0.26 cD from 0.29 cD, active grille shutters and full underbody shrouds. This headline mileage stat does not exclude the new SR models — a sporty trimline that is new for 2016 and offered on the 2.5-liter …

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2016 Volkswagen Passat USA Shows Boss New R-Line, Tech Updates at NYC Reveal

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Clearly not the greatest time to roll out a new vehicle, but the 2016 Passat is welcome anyway. These are the premium and sexy upgrades we have wished for to set the Passat apart from normal Camrys in the mid-size sedan segment. Available LED head and taillamps are suitably Audi-esque in their execution quality. And even with carry-over panels, the larger wheels and fresh nose is a bit eye-catching. This nose is new from the A-pillar forward, but might take a VW fan to recognize over the current US PAssat nose. Crucially, the vehicle now looks its size — a …

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Road Test Review – 2015 Buick Encore AWD Premium with Ken Glassman

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2015 Buick Encore AWD Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman   The marketing folks at Buick have identified a large group of auto buyers who are looking for cars that have a prestige image, contemporary styling, and nicely appointed comfortable cabins. These shoppers want luxury amenities, but are also environmentally conscious and don’t require strong gas guzzling performance. The 2015 Buick Encore was designed with those attributes in mind. The handsome, rugged exterior styling features sculpted lines from the front clip and steeply raked hood (complete with Buicks iconic Venti-ports) to the character lines running just above the beltline, and door …

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2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport DYNAMIC Makes Sexy Debut in Frankfurt

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The Land Rover Discover Sport is not on US roads yet, but there is already a very sexy special edition for European shoppers: the new Dynamic package. An exterior sportification via body-color bumpers, body kit and special details… the makeover is very convincing — and helps the new Disco Sport share some of the curb appeal of its sexier RRS and Evoque siblings. The Disco Sport already wears a great deal of gloss black for its trims and grilles, but this Dynamic upgrade takes the lower bodywork to the same standard. Everywhere there was previously grey plastic, now there is …

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MINI Goes HUGE! Just-Revealed 2016 CLUBMAN is Foot Longer, Much Wider than MINI 4-Door Hardtop

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The MINI range is in the midst of a full rebirth. New tech, swanky and posh cabin materials, plus fresh looks outside. The big plus is that the driving playfulness of the standard hatch applies to any body style, or even SUV. But the downside is that they all look pretty similar. Don’t let this reveal miss your radar, though, because the new Clubman might be the ideal and long-sought-after fast wagon variant of your dreams! First off, the dimensions. The Clubman is 10.6 inches longer than the new 4-Door Hardtop (aka the 5-Door in UK). The Clubman is also …

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HD First Drive Review – 2015 Audi A3 1.8T Sedan

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 The Audi A3 family is pretty massive for 2015 – with the new sedan just the first in the offensive that will include the A3/S3 Cabrio, A3 Sportback and Sportback Hybrid, an S3 sedan and even the Q3 mini SUV. So there is a lot riding on this compact exec’s shoulders – not least a worry that it might be overpriced and under-amazing. But that is not the case in the slightest. What we discovered after flogging Audi’s latest machine around Lake Lanier, Georgia last week is a fun, peppy car with outstanding driving characteristics, very intuitive steering, and a …

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2015 Mazda KOERU Concept 4

2015 Mazda KOERU Concept Previews Upcoming CX-7 with Slinky Style, 7 Seats

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Mazda just released the first official images of a swanky new crossover concept: a sporty yet long-wheelbase SUV dubbed the KOERU. Just a single sketch so far, but we have a finger on the pulse of Mazda’s next crossover move. We predict this concept outlines a replacement for the seven-seat CX-9 SUV for the ~2018 model year. The CX-9 has been refreshed a few times over its lifetime, but the vehicle is near the end of a long platform and engine-sharing deal with former owners Ford Motor Company. In additon to hefty licensing fees paid to Ford to use the …

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Nissan Gripz Concept

Updated1 with 50 New Pics – 2015 Nissan GRIPZ Concept Rally Racer

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This Nissan GRIPZ Concept is out and stunning!  Bold and sculptural lines take on a new level of layered surfacing, unique spoilers and evolved design themes. There is good news and not-so-good news to share, however. The good is that this compact crossover is gorgeous and previews a next generation of Nissan SUVs and crossovers. Everything from the next Frontier to the next Armada may wear designs influenced by the GRIPZ. Nissan calls this new form language ’emotionalgeometry.’ The not-great news is that this concept does not, after all, run a twin-turbo V6 — as we speculated last week. No, …

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2017 Jaguar F-PACE Is GO! Full Launch Specs, UK Pricing + 100 New Photos

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Here it is, ladies and gentleman! The crossover that saved Jaguar from certain misery. This angel is called F-PACE and is coming to high streets worldwide in the next six months. This is not the concept? Nope, this is the production SUV that is priced from Pounds 35k with a huge range of engines, a playful RWD or AWD chassis, and aluminum throughout its bones and skin. Full configurator, pricing and trimlines are available for UK shoppers already — which is a strong indication that production is already under way. We’re thrilled the production model carries all of the chic, …

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2017 Volkswagen TIGUAN Is Truly All New in R-Line or Standard Style + Concept GTE PHEV

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NOTE: VW clarifies that this the European-market Tiguan. The US model may differ with a caveat like that — a la Passat USA vs Passat EU. Oh my. The only word we can think of? FINALLY. Volkswagen has been in USA reboot mode since 2012. But the results on the showroom floor are exceptionally underwhelming, so far. The boring and tired model range is designed so conservatively, and launch so slowly (1.5-years after Euro rollouts, 2.5-years after concept debut at times), that they feel old upon arrival. And ancient shortly after that.   2015 Volkswagen Golf R and Golf Sportwagen …

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2015 Nissan GRIPZ Concept – Off-Road Z Car With V6TT!?

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Our second teaser look today at the new Nissan Frankfurt concept: GRIPZ. Inspired by two wildly diverse race vehicles, the GRIPZ may or may not preview a next-gen Juke: a rally racing Datsun 240Z and a Specialized road racing bicycle. We initially thought it was definitely a preview of next juke, but now believe (hope?) this GRIPZ might be an off-road Z car. Would this even be possible!? Oh yes. As the original Infiniti FX showed, the Nissan front-midship reardrive platform is exceptionally flexible. Everything from the 350Z to the G35 was built of these all-star bones — so the …

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HD Road Test Review – 2015 Buick ENCORE – Drives Like an Audi, Priced Like a Kia?

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Compact crossovers could not be hotter right now. They avoid the depressing drive experience of small sedans, no matter how tight they might be inside. The flipside is that carmakers can be tempted to overprice the mini-SUVs — with options taking the ultra small machines deep into real SUV territory.  This is certainly the case with the $48k BMW X1 sDrive28i we tested last year. Or how about the $67k AMG GLA45? Clearly the temptation of luxury features, equipment and options is powerful for both the brands and to buyers, though. The compact SUV is therefore quite perplexing at times: …

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2016 Nissan LEAF Scores Big EV Range Bump With New Li-ion Battery and Touchscreens

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  The Nissan Leaf is a cult hit. Like Tesla zealots or early Prius adopters, LEAF-ers absolutely love the machine. Up and down the west coast, Atlanta and DC — the Leaf is as common a sight as an Altima. These cities and regions have pushed hard to roll out charging infrastructure in their city centers and beyond, with helpful tax incentives to buyers also part of the mix. But since the Leaf went on sale in 2010, there has not been a huge incentive for these loyal ‘silent mafia’ of EV drivers to upgrade to the new Leaf. A …

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2016 Optima SXL

2016 Kia Optima Is Wider With New Tech, Fresh Style and Mid-Spec Turbo DCT

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The 2016 Optima is arriving in showrooms this month featuring fresh style, tech and mechanicals. Despite initially very-familiar looks for this wider and longer-wheelbased model, the design is new. Organic flow to the body surfacing and even the trademark roof accents is now more flowing and less choppy. The angular look with sharp edges has been smoothed out nicely. Example? Check out the clean doors and sills. Just pure and impressive lines. The proportions are enhanced via a new-look rear quarter window and dark roof on the loaded SX and SXL models.  The overall effect helps the Optima look rear-drive …

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Update1 – 2016 Lexus RX350 and RX450h Are All-New Inside and Out

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Updated 9.8.15 With 101 Real-Life Photos The all-new Lexus RX is here and stunning! As Lexus’ all-star sales champ, the RX redesign for 2016 is an all-important step in keeping the Big L’s sales and market share near the top of the luxury brand ranks. To fend of new competition from all sides in this five-seat crossover segment, the RX is dramatically redone in almost every way. First off, the style. DESIGN ANALYSIS Wearing Lexus’s new design brief and its interesting, unique and captivating creases and angles, the RX is far more exciting to look at than it has been …

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2017 Audi A4 Arrives to USA in March – Updated With 150 New Images

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Updated 9.7.15 With 150 New Images We’ve been scouring the web for a closer look at some real-life photos of the next A4. The initial renderings left much to be desired, both in terms of style and believeability. This next batch is a mixture of photos, new official renders, and stills from the launch video. Overall, there is definitely a fresh stance to the new model — especially so thanks to the new double check of LED DRLS in front, plus low/light LED pipes in back. The lamps then are pretty sexy. But what about the rest? Nothing great to …

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2016 Dacia Duster Altaï Green 6

2016 Dacia Duster Adds Easy-R Automatic + Altaï Green and Urban Explorer Specials

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  As you know, Renault’s budget brand Dacia has been a surprise hit in developed, rich-world markets in the last few years. European buyers like the large size of the vehicle, its basic running-gear and cheap configurations. Even loaded, the Duster SUV is priced around 20-percent less than a Nissan Qashqai’s base price. Along with Dacia’s growing global popularity comes a new Oroch pickup model next year, plus some jazzed-up Dusters with new tech and special-edition trim levels. The new tech is an automated-manual transmission dubbed Easy-R — which may be the first time a self-shifter has been in the …

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2016 Renault MEGANE GT Leads All-New Model Launch – I See You Baby?

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The Renault Megane became a cultural touchstone with its first-gen lines. All geometric choppiness plus an architectural, vogue set of curves? The body language of the car was a massive hit — and became one of the best-selling models in recent Renault history. In its best years in the early 2000s, the Megane was often neck and neck with the VW Golf for UK sales. A dance-pop ad campaign made the most of the Megane’s funky trunk lines, all set to Groove Armada’s “See You Baby, Shakin’ That A**.” This author recalls the first time he saw one in the …

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JAGUAR 2016 Model-Year: Big Price Cuts + $35k Base for New XE25t Rear-Drive Sedan

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Jaguar’s transition to aluminum has been a godsend for playful and fun handling. Even the big XJ can be thrown around with verve. The flipside of the lightweight alloy? Price, of course. Luckily, Jaguar is adjusting its 2016 USA lineup’s pricing. Big chops in list prices are not really in the calculus — the max cut is around $3k — but better standard equipment will take much of the sting out of the options list. Aluminum is currently at six-year price lows as the global commodities slump takes hold — so this is not pure altruism on Jaguar’s part. Jaguar …

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2016 BMW 340i M Sport and 330d xDrive in 150 New Photos

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A big round of updates for the BMW 3 series range! The changes bring new LED lighting front and rear, a PHEV model called 330e, and the new 340i badge to replace the 335i. This update reflects an all-new turbo engine up front. The 3.0-liter inline-six is now dubbed B58 versus the previous N55. The new engine has a just of 20 horsepower up to 320, with a torque mountain of 330-pound-feet coming on from just 1350 RPM. That is one eager motor! The US range includes a 320, 328i or 328d and new 330e featuring plug-in hybrid technology. A …

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2016 Citroen DS4 and DS4 Crossback Revealed

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  2016 Citroen DS4 Crossback   2016 Citroen DS4 NEW DS 4 AND DS 4 CROSSBACK: DS TAKES THE OFFENSIVE IN THE COMPACT VEHICLE SEGMENT One model, two distinct body styles and a new front end. A unique style featuring elements strongly emblematic of the DS style. Even more advanced technology, and extreme refinement still visible in every detail… Introducing New DS 4 and DS 4 Crossback. Sold in 115,000 examples since launch, DS 4 is gaining new impetus with the arrival of two complementary models: New DS 4, a dynamic and elegant hatchback for customers looking for feelings and …

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2016 BMW i8 FIA Formula E Pacecar – Wireless Charging + M8 Mods Roadmap?

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BMW has re-signed as the official safety and medical car provider for the second-ever Formula E race series! The 2015/2016 series will feature a number of electric BMW’s on track for assistance and support duties, including bikes and an X5 eDrive. The i3 will be a medical support vehicle as well. But the really fast laps demand a fast safety and pacecar, of course! And here is the perfect machine, the PHEV BMW i8. And not just any i8, either. A few interesting tidbits about this pacecar are extremely promising. Wireless charging and a huge chassis upgrade that may point …

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Road Test Review – 2015 Lincoln MKC AWD with Ken Glassman

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2015 Lincoln MKC AWD Review by Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman The Lincoln brand has been trying to find itself and find its place in the market for years now. They have produced some fine vehicles, but their focus has been a bit blurry. They need to appeal to younger buyers who for years have only considered German or Japanese luxury brands as being the real deal. But this compact crossover may be just the vehicle to boost the Lincoln cachet, and puts the brand on a path to growth and prosperity. The MKC has handsome, sophisticated exterior styling, performs well , …

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2017 Jaguar F-PACE Preview: F-Type Chassis + AWD SUV Stance = Ruthless Macan-Hunter

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Grace, space and pace is the promise of the new Jaguar F-PACE SUV. The 2017 model will go on sale in 2016, per JLR below, after its debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show in a few weeks. The truck is looking better and better to our eyes. A slinky and slim glasshouse marries a swoopy SUV shape to the long-hood, chopped-tail appearance of the F-Type two-seater. The combo sounds weird but looks incredible — even covered in various climate testing camo. Most crucially for a Jaguar that seems back in its styling rut with the firm’s three new sedans, the …

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2017 KIA Sportage 1

2017 KIA Sportage First Look: GT Line Quad LEDs + Euro Handling Focus

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KIA’s push to excel globally is ramping up nicely. Frankfurt, California and Korea-based teams are now aligned to make the most of each area’s strengths. Korea as the lead manufacturing hub/supplier base, Cali as a tech and design center of excellence, and the European R&D division taking a much bigger role in vehicle development. It is a smart foundation for KIA’s move to become Hyundai’s sportier cousin. As it stands, the Kia range is broad but lacks a cohesive, defining nature. The firm has their eyes on BMW. If they can engineer cars to be sold world-wide in one chassis …

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Road Test Review – 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD Limited – Fave Family Truckster Is Tahoe-Tough but Lexus-Smooth

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2015 Toyota Highlander AWD Limited Review There is a huge rationality shake-out in the large SUV segment. Buyers are no longer willing to shoulder enormous fuel bills and big-rig parking manners in order to seat seven. Nor are they up for joining the minivan clan — typically using the AWD or all-weather argument to avoid that blatant admission of parenthood. The 2015 Highlander is right at the center of a new SUV ideal for millions of post-van, post-SUV buyers. Why can’t there be a car-based crossover with jumbo cabin space, but AWD and enough ground clearance to glide over gravel …

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2016 Renault Talisman Estate Runs New Tech and Style To Battle Euro Wagon All-Stars

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The full-size car market in Europe is one of the lifebloods of the industry. Renault cites sales of D-segment cars totaling more than a million units annually. Of that, wagons make up 54-percent! That is a shocking total, but it makes great sense. Room for families, dogs, skis, bikes and everything else… but the handling and luxury ride of a posh limo? That is the fast-wagon promise. The new Talisman will deliver thanks to a giant new trunk and even a big bump in rear headroom. Just seating for five and front-drive would limit the Talisman’s potential if sold off …

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2016 TESLA Model X 11

2016 TESLA Model X – Fug EV SUV May Carry $150k Sticker As Gas Falls Below 2 Bucks

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  The Model X SUV is big news for Tesla — a reminder that the company actually makes cars versus headlines. Amid the inventions and novel solutions for the first seven-seat, AWD EV SUV lurks a pair of big concerns for Tesla and car lovers alike: the Model X’s awkward design and expected obese pricetag. Morbidly obese pricetag? Perhaps…. INTRO The Tesla hype machine can be seriously exhausting. The company relies on fairly gratuitous financial PR outreach — juicing NASDAQ:TSLA with every snippet of info rehashed by analysts ad nauseam. The entire operation starts to feel like a boilerroom pump …

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HD Road Test Review – 2015 Nissan JUKE Nismo RS Manual

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Imagine a core group of Nissan GT-R engineers, drivers and designers set loose on the Nissan Juke NISMO. Task? Take the quickest and most performance-focused crossover, and make it truly track-tight in every way. That is how the Juke Nismo RS came into this world — with astounding results. The speed, style and drive experience of the Nismo RS is absolutely incredible versus its $28k competitors — and even versus pricier cars like the AMG GLA45, WRX or Mustang EcoBoost. The Juke Nismo RS is incredibly focused from first sitting in its racing Recaro hard-back bucket seats. A pair of …

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