Fun Cars

Hyundai Gives Elantra N The Wing Treatment With New TCR Edition

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

5 Things to Know About the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

by

  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 …

Keep reading

2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N review by Ben Lewis

by

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 …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota Supra 45th Anniversary Edition

by

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 …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Builds Rolling Homage To Goldfinger

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Embraces The Sun With Bespoke Spectre Semaphore

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

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

by

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 …

Keep reading

2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is The Most Powerful Corvette Ever

by

It has been a long time since we saw the legendary ZR1 nameplate appear on a Corvette with the last model being based on the C7 Vette. That model was the last front-engined version made before GM and Chevrolet chose to make the C8 version a mid-engined offering a few years ago. At the time, Chevrolet said that making it a mid-engine model allowed the brand to extract higher levels of performance from the car and the 2025 Corvette ZR1 is perhaps the most potent expression of this mantra yet. The model breaks new ground for the moniker and raises …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Mazda 3 Turbo Premium Sedan – Is It Still Our Favorite Underdog?

by

The Mazda 3 has always been the proverbial underdog in the compact car segment. While the segment itself has shrunken over the past few years as compact crossovers encroach on their territory with these models stealing customers away. As a result, automakers have slowly begun to kill off these models. Mazda is one of the few that’s still committed to the compact car wars and its Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback continue to be outliers in a rapidly shrinking segment.  The Mazda 3 has always been a stylish car and while some of its DNA (especially on the hatchback) is …

Keep reading

Road Test review – 2024 Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance – Muscular In All The Right Places

by

It wasn’t too long ago that V8-powered muscle cars dominated the performance market. The BMW M3, Audi S4, and the Mercedes C63 AMG all had V8s at one point in time and these V8s helped push them to new heights both in sales and performance. However, the push for tighter fuel economy forced the segment to embrace smaller engines and turbocharging. Lexus has chosen to pivot and re-use a familiar performance formula for its performance sedan, the 2024 Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance. But is it a formula that can still get results on the track and sales? or is …

Keep reading

2024 Toyota Prius XLE review by Ben Lewis

by

We love it when automakers shake things up. Well, not always. We’re not too sure about the Tesla Cybertruck, to be honest. But when you take a mainstream model and turn the tables, for sure. And that’s just what happened with the Toyota Prius. Yes, the Prius. The poster child for a cleaner, greener future has now become a Sports Illustrated Swimwear model. So, is Toyota brilliant, or did they lose the plot completely? Let’s find out. Head-turning Looks One look is all it took (hey, that would make a great song!) to show this is something special. We got …

Keep reading

2025 Porsche Panamera Gains GTS and More Powerful Turbo S E-Hybrid

by

The Porsche Panamera was originally one of the most controversial models that the German sports car company ever made when it made its appearance back in 2009. The four-door has since become a symbol of Porsche’s performance extremes and the new 2025 model brings two new flavors to buyers that want the best in four-door sedan performance, The GTS and the beefier Turbo S E-Hybrid. Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid pushes the performance envelope Taking its spot at the top of the Panamera pecking order is the Turbo S E-Hybrid. All models come equipped with a twin-turbocharged 591 hp V8 that’s …

Keep reading

2024 Acura TLX Type S road test review by Ben Lewis

by

Acura has been quietly polishing their lineup for the last couple of years and has also been developing their own kind of sub-brand, Type S, for the real die-hard enthusiasts. We tested such notables as the storming Integra Type S, and the super-capable MDX Type S. And when the maker brought out a 2022 TLX Type S two years ago, we were impressed, and for 2024 there’s some serious enhancements that make it worth another look. Badder is Better We were a little concerned when we heard Acura had refreshed the design for 2024 – after all, this is one …

Keep reading

2025 Aston Martin Valiant is a Hardcore Expression of Raw Performance

by

Aston Martin has had an established habit of making limited production models that are track-ready but without losing the road legal status that make them rolling sculptures when cruising through town. The Valour was the last of these creations and the British sports car brand has followed up on it with the all-new limited-production Valiant. Aston Martin makes bold statement with Valiant The Valiant is heavily based on the Valour and as a result, the bulk of the core styling largely carries over from that car. However, this special edition gives the car numerous upgrades that put luxury on the …

Keep reading

2024 Volkswagen Golf R review by Ben Lewis

by

We often bemoan that the marketplace has been taken over by SUV’s and Crossovers, but to be honest, this is a great time for cars – especially for those who love to drive. Case in point, the 2024 VW Golf R. Looking for thrills matched with practicality? You’ve come to the right place! Subtle but Different One interesting thing we noticed with the Golf R – even though it is very similar to the VW GTI, the visual changes were enough for us to garner plenty of comments. There’s still the familiar VW logo on the nose, but instead of …

Keep reading

2025 Volkswagen Jetta Lowers Price Of Entry, Gets New Upgrades

by

When we last saw the current generation Volkswagen Jetta it was back in 2023 after the company gave it a light refresh in 2022 to build upon the major revamp that the car got in 2019 after years of having styling that resembled a bland vanilla wafer. Volkswagen has chosen to give the Jetta a more extensive suite of updates for 2025 that not only improve its looks, but also introduce some new features to spruce things up. New look hides old Jetta bones Volkswagen is once again keeping the Jetta on its current platform but while the old bones …

Keep reading

Maserati Pays Tribute To MC12 With MC20 Icona and Leggenda Special Editions

by

Exactly 20 years ago, Maserati went racing with the MC12 which brought the Italian brand back into motor racing after a four-decade absence. The MC12 was an extreme expression of Maserati’s performance DNA and the MC20 is the figurative successor to this legend with the twelve-cylinder being swapped out for a V6. Maserati is preparing to celebrate this anniversary with a pair of special edition models, the MC20 Icona and Leggenda.   Styling tweaks give these MC20 special editions swagger Both of these special editions feature paintwork and livery that’s borrowed from the MC12. In the case of the Icona …

Keep reading

Nissan Heritage Z Pays Homage To Datsun, Starts at $60,275

by

The Nissan Z has made waves since it was heavily revamped after a long era of stagnation and power creep by some of its rivals. However, the one item that has always been missing is a heritage-flavored model with the company reserving these models for the Japanese market. However, that’s now changing with the company confirming that it is creating a special retro-inspired Z Heritage Edition for the U.S. that will celebrate the 55th anniversary of the Datsun 240Z’s original debut. Color us impressed The Z Heritage Editon is based on the Z Performance model which slots below the hardcore …

Keep reading

Ford Reveals Mustang GTD Option Packages and an Interior That’s To Die For

by

The Mustang GTD made waves when Ford confirmed that it created a no-holds-barred performance entry that would shatter everything we knew about the Mustang. While driving this unhinged beast would set you back over $325,000 Ford claims that the sheer amount of performance on hand would be worth every penny. With the Mustang GT3 preparing to compete in the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans race, the company has decided to release some new details about the GTD and not only provided clarity about the option packages that will be coming to the GTD, but also decided to show us …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Rolls Royce Spectre – Rolls Silently Enters The EV Age

by

It wasn’t too long ago that if you either walked into a Rolls Royce showroom or an owners group and asked for an EV, chances are good that you would have the same reaction as the Daleks did in this clip from the BBC series Doctor Who. However, the automotive market is changing and even Rolls Royce has been forced to make some changes to try and adapt to the new normal. The Rolls Royce Cullinan helped the brand enter the SUV market, and the 2024 Rolls Royce Spectre is silently pushing the brand into the EV age. Seductive Styling Makes …

Keep reading

Volkswagen Could Make Clubsport Version of Golf R According to New Report

by

Volkswagen enthusiasts looking for the best in budget performance will be directed to the Golf R with the super hatch featuring a heavily revamped 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 315 hp and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. However, it appears that Volkswagen is possibly preparing a spicier version of the Golf R with a new report suggesting that the Club Sport moniker might finally make its way to the R to give VW buyers a spicy treat ahead of the Golf R’s eventual revamp. A track-ready version is coming The report comes from a statement that was released …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE – EV Credentials Lack AMG Flair

by

It wasn’t too long ago that some folks in the industry thought that the EV revolution would be highlighted by vehicles that had plenty of range, but were slow and didn’t have the charisma needed to stand out in showrooms. That was especially evident in the 1990s with some of the EV concepts that appeared on the show circuit. But the times are changing, and Mercedes-Benz is eager to show the world that the 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE goes far beyond being a mere appliance trying to get maximum range. It promises to be a worthy sequel to the flagship EQS, …

Keep reading

2024 Audi S4 Sedan review by Ben Lewis

by

There’s no denying it, we love European sport sedans. While most premium buyers are looking at SUVs, it’s worth remembering that brands like BMW, Mercedes and Audi made their bones on excellent performing sedans. And while the Europeans are developing SUVs and EVs, it seems like sedans still hold a place in those carmaker’s hearts. We recently tested the BMW M340i and found it a high-performance bahnstormer. So, when Audi offered up an S4 sedan to test, we jumped at it. Can the brand with the four rings offer up similar thrills to the famous Roundel? Let’s find out! Racy …

Keep reading

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Road Test Review by Ben Lewis

by

If you haven’t noticed, we’re seeing a resurgence in rugged, off-road type crossovers and SUV’s. From Honda’s TrailSport to Nissan’s Rock Creek editions, people are lining up for that extra-capable, extra-rugged look. And Subaru has been happily playing in that sandbox. We’ve tested the Outback Wilderness, and Forester Wilderness, and enjoyed them both, for their added outdoors-capable look, and upgraded running gear. So now, Subie has added an all-new Crosstrek Wilderness model, and we couldn’t wait to get our hands on it! Crosstrek Gone Wild! Well, there’s no doubt about what you’re seeing when you look at it – this …

Keep reading

TWR Gets Into Restomodding Trend With Jagaur Based Supercat, Will Be Limited To 88 Units

by

The resto-modding craze has picked up steam over the past few years with modified versions of the Volvo P1800 and the Porsche 928 being a few notable examples of this trend in action. However, the folks at TWR have decided to raise the bar up a notch and have formally unveiled the TWR Supercat which will be limited to 88 units when it enters production.   Supercat Shares XJ-S Hardware The Supercat is a wild beast, but it gets its DNA from a 1976 Jaguar XJ-S. The XJ-S was the controversial replacement for the Jaguar E-Type and attempted to offer …

Keep reading

2024 Subaru WRX TR Road test review by Ben Lewis

by

When it comes to the Subaru WRX, we’re big fans. While the automaker brings in the big bucks with popular crossovers like the Outback and Forester, with the ‘Rex, they stay true to the enthusiasts as well. And while the WRX has always been great fun out of the box, it’s also been a hugely popular starting point for those who love to modify their vehicles. In fact, in 2006, Subie created a WRX TR model. “TR” stood for “Tuner Ready”, and they took out some of the heavy, expensive stuff like the audio system to create a lighter, less …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Maserati Grecale & 2023 Quattroporte Trofeo – Two Flavors Of Performance

by

Maserati is preparing to shift its EV ambitions into high gear with models like the recently announced GranCabrio Folgore attempting to make EVs stylish options for buyers willing to make the plunge. However, Maserati also knows that its ICE models will ultimately provide the fuel needed for these EV offerings to expand and cement themselves in the marketplace. Maserati recently allowed us to spend time with both the Quattroporte and the Grecale Trofeo models to not only show us what they bring to the table, but how they will help secure Maserati’s future.   2023 Maserati Quattroporte Trofeo The 2023 …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Lotus Emira First Edition – The End Of An Era

by

When Lotus unveiled the 2024 Emira sports car, it represented the end of an era for the company. The Emira was designed to be a successor for the Evora GT but it could also be considered a spiritual successor for the Elise. When the U.S. last saw the Elise, it was better known for being an ultra-lightweight thrill machine that sliced flab at the cost of creature comfort and refinement. Tightening safety regulations ended its run in the U.S. with the Evora being the lone solider for Lotus in our country. But can the Emira successfully walk the proverbial tightrope …

Keep reading

2024 Maserati GranCabrio Folgore Is The Ultimate All Electric Droptop

by

Maserati pulled no punches when it said that it was going all in on EVs. The Folgore lineup promised to push the envelope of EV performance and range. While the Maserati MC20 supercar will eventually get a Folgore model of its own, the company is using the approaching days of summer to drop the top on its first production EV, the 2024 Maserati GranCabrio Folgore. Silence Even With The Top Down The exterior styling here is shared with the ICE version of the GranCabrio and the two look nearly identical at first glance with the EV even retaining the gas …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 BMW Z4 M40i – Dropping The Top On Fun and Style

by

All sports cars come with fundamental DNA that makes them enjoyable to drive while also being stylish and reasonably comfortable at the same time. The 2024 BMW Z4 aims to bring these fundamentals into a package that’s upscale and luxurious but without sacrificing some of the dynamics that have made the model special over the years. The 2024 models aim to continue this but has it lost some of the sharpness that has defined it over the years?   Sinister Purple Adds Character to M Sport Lines When our tester arrived at the office, one of the things that made …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2023 BMW 330i – Aging 3-Series Still Has Plenty of Tricks up Its Sleeve

by

The BMW 330i is a symbol of the old guard in some ways when one looks at BMW’s lineup. It’s still the benchmark others strive to beat in the luxury sport sedan segment and it’s also one of the few remaining that have not had their twin-kidney grilles enlarged to comical proportions. While the pressure of SUV and CUV demand has certainly cut into some of its sales, the four-door still has a strong following. But what if you don’t have the budget for a fire-breathing M3 and prefer something that’s more budget-oriented> BMW thinks it has the answer with …

Keep reading

2024 Honda Civic Type R road test review by Ben Lewis

by

We recently tested the Acura Integra Type S, and we loved it. We were especially interested, since Acura took great pains to add refinement to the Civic Type R on which it is based. So, we were very excited to test the new Civic – itʻs on every enthusiastʻs radar as a great affordable driving car. But we wondered is it also refined, or a raw-edged, demanding weapon only for the brave of heart? Well, which is it? Letʻs find out! Swole-up Civic We love the look of the Type R. Like the Integra Type S, it looks like the …

Keep reading

Lotus Enters Bespoke Motoring Market With Lotus Chapman Bespoke Service

by

Lotus is preparing to embark on the biggest gamble it has ever done, with the company preparing an all-electric future for its lineup. But while the Lotus Emira we drove recently (review pending) is a potent last stand in the ICE market, the company knows that customization and individuality motivate the big spenders that buy their products. That’s why the company has formally unveiled the all-new Lotus Chapman Bespoke service to make their customer’s wishes come true.   Lotus Chapman Bespoke Service Follows Familiar Script If it feels like you heard this movie before, that’s because other exotic automakers have …

Keep reading

2023 Hyundai Ionic 5 Limited AWD road test review by Ben Lewis

by

Has the fervor over EV’s cooled? Maybe. That’s a question to do with costs, infrastructure, rebates and more. Honestly, that’s probably above our pay grade. But the vehicles themselves, we have to say they are impressive, and one of our favorites has to be the Hyundai Ionic 5. So while we’ve had some fun with EV’s lately including the stylish Ionic 6, the crazy BMW XM, and Toyota’s bZ4X and the rocket ship Kia EV6 GT, when we were offered another go ‘round with the Ionic 5, we jumped at the chance. Does it hold up to our memory, or …

Keep reading

Dodge Unveils 2024 Charger, Challenger Nameplate Dies But Hurricane & EV Power Confirmed

by

When Dodge chose to kill the long-running Charger and Challenger models due to tightening fuel economy standards and the aging platform that underpinned both models, enthusiasts across the U.S. lamented their demise. However, it turned out that Dodge had a trick up its sleeve and after teasing the future with the Charger SRT Daytona EV Concept, the muscle car brand has turned up the heat with the company unveiling the 2024 Charger which writes a new chapter in the history of Dodge performance.   Challenger is Dead, Long Live Charger A big change that buyers will notice before they even …

Keep reading

Aston Martin Vantage F1 Safety Car Builds On Essentials Bumps Up Screens

by

The old Aston Martin Vantage F1 safety car looked stylish and had a good track record of service at various F1 events. However, its performance was not up to everyone’s taste with reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen torching the car’s performance. Verstappen’s complaints (among others) prompted Aston Martin to unleash an improved Vantage F1 Safety Car which not only gets more muscle but also more technology as well. More Performance Sharpens Vantage Safety Car Vibes A key change that race fans and Aston Martin loyalists will notice is the infusion of extra power with this latest version of the safety …

Keep reading

Maserati GranCabrio Kisses The Sun With New Droptop Styling and Trofeo Flavored Performance

by

The Maserati GranCabrio has been an enduring presence, both in the way it’s connected to the GranTurismo coupe, but also how the model has often been considered Maserati’s style model with only exotic offerings like the MC20 surpassing its beauty. The 2024 GranCabrio aims to take the moniker in a new direction and also represents the start of a new era in styling and performance.   GranTurismo Underpinnings Give GranCabrio Depth The outgoing version had styling that was around since the mid-2000s but it was starting to age badly when viewed against some of its GT rivals. The 2024 version …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2023 Toyota GR86 Premium – Does It Still Have The Fun Factor?

by

It’s not often that improvements bring out the best in an automobile, but in the case of the 2023 Toyota GR86, it was exactly what the doctor ordered. The 2022 model gave the model more power and also made some revisions to the exterior and the interior which resulted in a noticeable transformation. But does it have long-term staying power? We wanted to find out.   GR86 & BRZ Siblings To The End Both the 2023 GR86 and its Subaru cousin the BRZ were designed to appeal to budget-focused performance buyers and that’s evident in the exterior styling with designers …

Keep reading

2025 Aston Martin Vantage Gets More Power, New Looks, & A Pinch Of Familiarity

by

It can be hard to believe that the Aston Martin Vantage has been in production for over 74 years. While the model has certainly seen its fair share of ups and downs (some of them reflecting Aston Martin‘s shifting fortunes) the Vantage has always been the most popular model that the British sports car maker sells. Aston has chosen to make some key updates to the 2025 Aston Martin Vantage as it prepares to enter a new sports car era.   Vantage, A Blend of Old & New The exterior styling of the 2025 Aston Martin Vantage is a mixture …

Keep reading

2024 Lexus LC 500 Convertible review by Ben Lewis

by

We recently tested the 2023 Lexus LC 500 Coupe and found it a dream – stunning looks, storming V8 power, Lexus quality, and just the feeling of exclusivity. A Lexus to covet, to be sure. And then Lexus offers us a visit in the 2024 LC 500 convertible. Not only that, thereʻs some significant upgrades in the technology, and a Bespoke Build package – just in case all the above in the coupe wasnʻt enough. So will the drop-top LC create another level of Lexus Lust? Letʻs find out! Stately Wayne Manners The first impression you get looking at the …

Keep reading

2025 Kia Carnival Goes Under The Knife With New Face, K5 Sedan Gets Refresh Too

by

When Kia first brought the Kia Carnival to our shores, the Korean car giant promised that the Carnival was going to introduce more SUV DNA into the venerable minivan mix. For any doubters remaining in the room, Kia has chosen the 2025 model year to give the 2025 Carnival an extensive facelift that further hones in the SUV undertones while also adding new tech to the van as well. As a bonus, it also decided to extend the updates to the 2025 Kia K5 sedan.   Angrier Face Draws In More Carnival Buyers, Hybrid Model Debuts The updates to the …

Keep reading

Aston Martin Poised To Debut New Vantage, Will Be Formally Unveiled February 12th

by

The Aston Martin Vantage is poised for a big change. The British sports car maker recently confirmed that the Vantage was going to be overhauled but didn’t reveal much info on when we would see it in the flesh. But that’s now changing, with the company not only confirming that it would be unveiled on February 12th, but also supplying a lone teaser image as a sample dish.   A Sign Of Things To Come For Vantage The lone teaser image Aston sent primarily focuses on one of the front fenders with the vent work taking center stage. The vents …

Keep reading

Cadillac Adds Polish and Tech to 2025 CT5 V-Series, Keeps Manual Alive In CT5-V Blackwing

by

At first glance, it’s easy to assume that the Cadillac CT5 is a mere bookend when it comes to the brand’s broader sales forecast with the Escalade and other SUV models stealing the spotlight. However, the CT5 is in fact, the best-selling model the brand has when it comes to overall sales, with the CT5 seeing its sales increase ever since it first went into production back in 2019 (bucking a broader downward slide in sales across the sedan landscape.) Cadillac decided to reward this strong showing by giving the model a refresh for 2025 and has now extended it …

Keep reading

2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus review by Ben Lewis

by

The times, they are a changin’ – especially for muscle car enthusiasts. We’ve been seeing lately a lot of “Final Editions” of V8 muscle cars, as the market is turning to turbo 4 and 6 cylinders, as well as hybrid and EV vehicles. That’s the bad news…the V8 seems to be on its last legs. The good news – carmakers on Dodge aren’t giving up on performance, they’re just taking it in new directions. One that’s especially interesting is the new Dodge Hornet R/T. It’s got a whole lot of cool stuff going on, from a plug-in hybrid turbo 4 …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD – Light Updates Polish Up Familiar Recipe

by

It was no secret that the Lexus IS was in need of a major revamp. The aging exterior styling looked like it was drawn by a mad axe killer and the interior suffered from technology that was rapidly falling behind the times (including the most frustrating way to get around an infotainment system this side of iDrive.) Lexus listened to the feedback it got from IS owners and they also wanted to make the car more appealing to young buyers. The end result is the 2024 Lexus IS and the company thinks that this version of the IS has a …

Keep reading

Dodge Teases Next Generation Charger, Confirms Daytona Moniker For Possible EV Variant

by

When Dodge revealed that it was saying goodbye to the Charger and Challenger muscle cars, the performance brand promised that it still had a surprise or two up its sleeve. One of them was the all-electric SRT Daytona concept which wowed the crowds gathered at M1 raceway in Pontiac, Michigan. We had a bit of a wait since then, but Dodge has chosen to reveal (kinda) the next chapter of performance with several teaser images of the next-generation Charger.   Next-Generation Charger Pays Homage To The 1960s With the Challenger name still MIA for now, Dodge says these early images …

Keep reading

A Year In Review – 2023 Best & Worst Drives, And What’s Next?

by

As 2023 is slowly coming to a close, we wanted to circle back and share some of the things that happened throughout the year and provide a glimpse into what we have planned for the new year starting with the Best & Worst Drives of 2023 that our Metro Detroit branch office experienced this year.   Best: 2022 Maserati MC20 Coupe (V6) In our Best category is the 2022 Maserati MC20 supercar. The MC20 is the last great expression of ICE performance for the Italian luxury car maker before it fully embraces pure BEVs. While a tri-motor Folgore model will …

Keep reading

McLaren Unveils Renamed 2025 GTS, More Luxury and Performance Are On The Menu In This Refresh

by

The McLaren GT certainly caught our attention when we had the chance to sample one for 24 hours awhile back. This brief encounter allowed us to see the higher amounts of luxury and technology that McLaren infused into the car. However, progress and evolution are key motivators in the Grand Touring segment and McLaren has unveiled the updated 2025 McLaren GTS which adds more luxury performance and a new name for customers to remember too.   New Name Spearheads Light GTS Exterior Updates McLaren has always been known for not straying too far from a proven formula and that’s on …

Keep reading

2024 Aston Martin Valhalla Creeps Closer To Production, Will Debut Next Year

by

It has been a long journey for the Aston Martin Valhalla with the company first unveiling it back in 2019 as the AM-RB 003. Alot has changed since that time with a pandemic and Aston’s very survival during that time taking center stage. However, the company has kept pushing forward with the Valhalla and the company has released new details about the car while also confirming that it will be entering production next year.   Valhalla Sharpens Its Performance Sword With V8 Power The Valhalla is the latest in Aston’s growing lineup of exotic supercars but while it’s easy to …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2023 BMW M3 50 Jahre Edition – M3’s Golden Anniversary Homage Still Has Sizzle & Bite

by

In the 50 years that BMW’s M brand has terrorized race tracks around the world, the performance-focused sub-brand has undergone a number of key transformations as it attempted to maximize the performance that BMW products were capable of. It can be easy to forget that this gold standard of the performance-driving world once started out as a small in-house race shop. BMW has prepared a surprise to help celebrate the occasion, the 2023 BMW M3 50 Jahre Edition which helps celebrate the M3’s history, but are new styling touches enough to help this beast stand out in a crowd?   …

Keep reading

2023 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo AWD review by Ben Lewis

by

Do you have friends that you always see around the holidays? For us, it seems like we usally end up reviewing Mazdaʻs CX-30 around this time of year – and itʻs always a great visit, because this is one of the best hatchback/crossovers around – especially for drivers. But in the past year weʻve made some great new friends, like the Toyota Corolla GR, and Hyundai Elantra N. So does the CX-30 still get the guest bedroom, or does it end up sleeping on the pull-out couch? Letʻs find out! Hot, High Hatch With the popularity of Crossovers and SUVʻs, …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2023 MINI Clubman Untold Edition – Latest Special Edition MINI Crafts Its Own Story

by

When it comes to outlandish special edition offerings, few can top the creative minds over at BMW’s MINI brand. MINI has always been known for offering customers a strong roster of models that not only embrace their quirky British heritage but also offer an impressive array of options and features designed to help buyers personalize their MINI to suit their distinctive tastes. One of these is the 2023 MINI Clubman Untold Edition which not only celebrates the end of production for the Clubman model but also promises to show buyers the untold side of the model. But is the Untold …

Keep reading

Hyundai Reveals 2024 Sonata Pricing, AWD Variant Starts At $30,000, N-Line Still Performance King

by

The 2024 Hyundai Sonata is ushering several key updates for the stylish four-door sedan and while it remains to be seen if this update will help provide a jolt to Sonata sales as a whole, Hyundai has revealed the final pricing ladder for the model which aims to make this stylish four-door a potent value play in a segment where design and performance have become the new benchmarks.   Sleek Styling & AWD Make Sonata Compelling Package Hyundai removed the base SE model from the Sonata lineup for 2024 and with its exit, the SEL model emerges as the new …

Keep reading

2023 Honda Civic Sport HPD Sedan Review by Ben Lewis

by

Who doesn’t love Honda’s Civic? Well, ok, there may be a few haters, but the Civic has long been one of Honda’s most popular vehicles, scoring legions of fans, and millions of happy owners. Happy journalists too, We loved the new Civic Si when we tested it recently, and also loved the Touring model as well. Truth be told, like most cars, the Civic is not as inexpensive as it once was, both the Si and Touring models hovering around $30k. So, we thought, in the spirit of the affordable Civic that many of us grew up with, it was …

Keep reading

First Look – Lotus Emeya & Lotus Eletre – New Lotus Models Aim To Catapult Firm To EV Age, Will They Succeed?

by

Lotus is preparing to make big moves in the EV vehicle segment. While the company cemented its history as an automaker that made lightweight vehicles that emphasized weight-cutting and exceptional handling, Lotus has also been on a proverbial rollercoaster in recent years with COVID-related challenges and a 2017 stock purchase by Chinese firm Geely being some of the twists and turns that have faced Lotus owners the past few decades. That said, Lotus is preparing to embark on a bold strategy and will focus all of its efforts on building a lineup of EV-only offerings with the Lotus Emira being …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Maserati MC20 – Maserati’s Return To Supercar Segment Marks End Of ICE Era

by

Maserati is the figurative traveler who’s facing a choice at the proverbial fork in the road. The Italian luxury automaker tried to embark on a push towards enhancing its sales, but while the Grecale and the Levante have certainly made their mark in the SUV segment, the broader sales picture is mixed at best. In the meantime, Maserati is also focusing on returning to some of the core things that helped it be an icon in the luxury segment, with performance and artistic flair being two prominent pillars. One example of this in action is the Maserati MC20, which launches …

Keep reading

2023 Kia Forte GT review by Ben Lewis

by

It’s probably no surprise, but we’ve become a nation of SUVs and Crossovers. And Kia certainly makes their share – the Soul, Seltos, Sportage, Sorento and Telluride are all great vehicles. But there’s still a market for sedans, especially affordable ones. The Honda Civic, the Toyota Corolla and Kia Forte are all strong sellers. Even better, some of the manufacturers offer sporty versions for the enthusiast on a budget. The Civic Si comes to mind. And we also have another fun small sedan vying for your driver’s dollar – the Kia Forte GT. So, does it serve up bang for …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2023 Hyundai Elantra N – Light Updates Keep This Hot Compact Ticking

by

The Hyundai Elantra N might not get as much attention in Hyundai showrooms as other members of the corporate team. But the sporty compact has managed to obtain a loyal following, and it now also has the distinction of being the only pure N model in Hyundai’s lineup (for now.) But does the 2023 Hyundai Elantra N retain its high amounts of sizzle even with the optional eight-speed automatic?   Elantra N Still Blurs Styling Lines, But We Love It Anyway The exterior styling of the Elantra N builds on some of the unique features and design choices that help …

Keep reading

Hyundai Slashes Pricing For 2024 Ioniq 6 EV, Price Cuts Will Vary Depending On Trim Level

by

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 made a splash when it first came out awhile back. However, the model did have pricing that helped put it out of reach of some buyers despite some of the tech and poise that the sedan brought to the segment. Hyundai has kept these buyers in mind for 2024, and confirmed that the model will see price cuts acrosss the entire model family.   Ioniq 6’s New Price Cuts Aim To Enhance Sales With the Ioniq 6 being carried over unchanged for the new model year, the forementioned pricing changes are the main updates that will …

Keep reading

2024 Subaru BRZ Pricing Revealed, Gets More Expensive But tS Is Coming Soon

by

Subaru has revealed official pricing for the 2024 BRZ sport coupe. While pricing is increasing for the new model year, Subaru is adding new features to the model including the debut of the all new tS model.   BRZ tS New Pinnacle Of Performance That Also Debuts EyeSight   Before we get into the pricing situation, we might as well talk about the biggest update for 2024, the debut of the BRZ tS. The tS is a spicier version of the BRZ and while it’s sadly not the formal STI model that many Subie fans were hoping for, it does …

Keep reading

Nissan Hyper Force Concept Brings GT-R To EV Age, Please Build It Nissan

by

It’s hard to believe that the current generation Nissan GT-R is over 16 years old. Despite the model getting its fair share of refreshes and updates over the years, the core essentials are largely unchanged from when it debuted in 2007. Nissan knows that this tired soundtrack is starting to get warped like your favorite 8-track tape, and tightening fuel regulations will eventually force the company to do something drastic with the model. While we get to wait a few more years to get a clearer view of the GT-R’s future, Nissan has revealed one potential avenue at the Japan …

Keep reading

Mazda Iconic SP Concept Is Our Best Preview Yet Of Company’s Performance EV Plans

by

When Mazda confirmed that it was expanding its presence in the all-electric segment, it was safe to assume that the Miata sports car would eventually conform to this new reality. But while the company has so far not released formal details about what this means production-wise, it has done the next best thing with the unveiling of the Mazda Iconic SP Concept, which drew plenty of stares at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.   Iconic SP Concept Draws Inspiration From European Icons At first glance, it’s hard to ignore the fact that Mazda designers took inspiration from classic European sports …

Keep reading

The Honda Prelude Returns In Concept Form, Looks Production Ready And Eager For Corners

by

Buyers that grew up in the 1980s and 1990s will have fond memories of the Honda Prelude. The Prelude first appeared in 1978, but the model didn’t get its mojo until the 80s and the 90s when it transformed into an attractive, sporty, and capable two-door coupe. Weakening sales and the early rise in SUV demand forced Honda to stop producing it in 2001, but it appears that Honda is at least exploring a revival with the all-new Prelude concept.   Hybrid Powertrain Hides Beneath Prelude’s Sleek Bodywork Honda’s announcement at the Japan Mobility Show was sparse on formal details, …

Keep reading

2023 LC 500 Drive Review: Lexus’s LFA Successor

by

2023 Lexus LC 500: Lessons From the LFA The 2023 Lexus LC 500 is a stunning embodiment of the automaker’s commitment to creating vehicles that seamlessly blend luxury and performance. This grand tourer coupe, first introduced in 2018, is a testament to Lexus’ dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and delivering an unforgettable driving experience. With its captivating design, potent powertrain, and impeccable interior, the LC 500 is a modern masterpiece that has earned its place among the elite in the luxury sports car segment. Exterior Design At first glance, the Lexus LC 500 is a true head-turner. Its low-slung, aggressive stance …

Keep reading

Toyota Promises New Dawn, Teases Mystery Model To Prove Its Point

by

Toyota promises that the company is ready to embrace a new dawn, and it appears that the company is building on some of the progress that it has made with all-electric models, including the Bz4X EV CUV. However, Toyota also holds a number of cards up its sleeve, including a mysterious new model that was teased earlier today in an accompanying teaser image.   Mystery Vehicle Shows Its Headlights, Leaves Questions Unanswered The lone teaser image doesn’t reveal too much with the car hiding underneath a thick layer of shadows. Attempting to brighten the image via our photo editor software …

Keep reading

2024 Subaru WRX TR Sharpens Up Driving Experience, Gets Improved Steering and Brembo Brakes

by

Subiefest has emerged as a premiere attraction for not only Subaru fans looking to get in touch with other Subaru owners but also getting a glimpse at new products from Subaru themselves. The trend continues with the company pulling the veil of secrecy off of the 2024 Subaru WRX TR, which benefits from a number of key upgrades but, sadly, no giant wing.   Performance Takes Center Stage In TR The 2024 WRX TR brings a number of key upgrades to the WRX, but performance will be taking center stage in the TR. While the turbocharged engine carries over largely …

Keep reading

First Look Ride – Mullen FIVE & Mullen GT – Is There Substance Underneath The Flashy Wrapper?

by

Sometimes, it can be hard to keep track of all the startup companies that are emerging in the electric vehicle marketplace. While Tesla is still the benchmark that many of these upstarts strive to match, it’s often easier said than done. One of these firms trying to establish themselves as a legitimate Tesla competitor is Mullen Automotive and the broader firm Mullen USA. The company has had a rollercoaster history regarding its fortunes, but it thinks now is the time to strike. But is there substance beneath the corporate buzzwords and shiny sheet metal? We wanted to find out and …

Keep reading

Toyota Goes Full Circle On Corolla Updates, Corolla Cross Nightshade and GR Corolla Premium Grade Confirmed

by

Toyota is preparing a two-pronged wave of updates for the iconic Corolla nameplate, with the 2024 GR Corolla and the 2024 Corolla Cross debuting new updates for the new model year as the pair attempt to inject new vigor into Corolla sales.   Corolla Cross Embraces The Nightshade Package, Premium Package Coming To GR Corolla   Toyota’s Nightshade lineup of models has already proven to be a sales success with buyers, and the company is extending the sinister charms to the Corolla Cross, which will be the latest model to feature a Nightshade Edition for 2024. Like other Nightshade models, …

Keep reading

Aston Martin Valhalla’s F1 Derived Technology Pushes It Closer To Production, Will Appear In 2024

by

Aston Martin has recently been on a roll regarding products, with the British sports car maker launching the DB12 and the wild and extremely rare Valour sports car. However, the Valhalla supercar is one model we have not heard much about in a long time. Getting its name from the Norse word for heaven, the development of the supercar has been far from a heavenly experience for Aston. The car was first announced in 2019, with the company claiming that it would get a hybrid V6. However, COVID-19 forced the company to focus on more pressing matters before announcing in …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Volkswagen Arteon SEL R-Line Premium – The Final Curtain For VW’s Four-Door Coupe

by

Volkswagen may be shifting towards an all-electrified future that will have a heavy reliance on SUV and other utility vehicles, but that doesn’t mean the company is ready to leave other vehicle segments just yet. One notable example is the four-door coupe segment, where the 2024 Volkswagen Arteon continues its unassuming role as VW’s lone entry. While Arteon sales numbers have taken a pounding from encroaching CUV entries, Volkswagen has made some minor updates to the Arteon in an attempt to help it stay fresh before it enters retirement. But is this the proper send off Arteon fans have been …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Subaru Impreza RS – This Hatch Has The Moves To Succeed

by

When Subaru announced that the Impreza would ditch the sedan body style and focus on it being a hatchback-only experience for 2024, it certainly had us asking questions. For one thing, could we buy a four-door in time? (my wife was in the market for a new vehicle back then) and how will consumers respond to this radical transition. Thankfully, the Subaru faithful have responded positively to the changes, and after spending some time with the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS, we grew to like a hatchback-only future as well.   Impreza RS Is Ready For Fun Or Work The RS …

Keep reading

2023 Toyota GR86 Review by Ben Lewis

by

There’s a song made famous by singer Etta James called “At Last” – about finally finding love. Well, we know that feeling. We’ve been wanting to drive a Toyota GR86 with a manual transmission since it was introduced for the 2022 model year. Well, so did a lot of other journalists, so we were pretty darn happy to drive a ’22 with the 6-speed automatic. Which as it turns out was a fantastic sports car. But for many of us, a true sports car still has three pedals, and no, the emergency brake does not count. So, when our turn …

Keep reading

2025 Cadillac CT5 Refresh Debuts New Tech and Styling, Builds On Impressive Sales Performance

by

Cadillac may be preparing to enter an era where electrification and utility vehicles will play prominent roles in its long-term future. However, the brand is still paying attention to its sedan lineup. The 2025 Cadillac CT5 has been doing well in sales, and the brand has decided to refresh it for the new model year that aims to build on this performance while also giving it new vigor in its fight against rivals from BMW and Audi.   Refresh Brings Bolder Styling and Sportiness To CT5 Cadillac is currently focusing on the standard CT5 lineup with today’s announcement, and as …

Keep reading

2023 Lexus IS 500 Premium review by Ben Lewis

by

2023 Lexus IS 500 Premium review by Ben Lewis Do you remember the original Mad Max movie? We see Max, aka Mel Gibson driving the Pursuit Special, a heavily modified Australian Falcon GT, that in the movie they call “The last of the V8 Interceptors.” It’s funny that the thought popped in my head when I drove the Lexus IS 500 with its massively powerful 5.0-liter V8. But I did wonder, how much longer will we have cars like this? While we seem to be marching towards a world of EVs, many of the IS competitors have swapped a naturally …

Keep reading

2024 Hyundai Elantra Brings New Front Fascia & Technology To Compact Segment

by

The Hyundai Elantra has been a venerable entry for the Korean car giant with the compact four-door doing a good job of wearing many different hats including a full-on track attack weapon when equipped as a N badged model. However, Hyundai knows that change and evolution always go hand in hand and it has unveiled the 2024 Elantra which brings updates to areas where the model needed it the most.   A New Face Adds Freshness To Elantra A prominent example of this change is the new front fascia that adorns the Elantra. Hyundai claims that the nose has “shark …

Keep reading

Pricing Comparison Test – 2023 Mazda MX-5 Club vs 2023 Toyota GR86 Which Is The Best Purchase?

by

The 2023 Mazda MX-5 is an icon in the affordable sports car ranks. The tiny two-door is the classic example of what happens when you combine a solid platform with simple ergonomics and the fun that comes with a droptop. But what happens when the MX-5 is forced to go head to head with the 2023 Toyota GR86 when it comes time to decide between the two for a potential purchase?   MX-5 and GR86 Are Both Finely Honed Instruments Of Fun   Look past the Mazda’s ability to flip its lid up and down (the GR86 has no convertible …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Debuts Amethyst Droptail, Features Aerodynamically Crafted Wood Accents

by

We were intrigued with the Rolls Royce Droptail when the original La Rose Noire model first appeared. Just as we were about to sink our teeth into that model, Rolls Royce unveiled another Droptail, the Amethyst model, which adds its own share of bespoke touches to the elegant convertible.   Amethyst One Of Four Special Creations Rolls Royce claims that the Amethyst is one of four special custom models the company created for an unnamed but probably wealthy client. While the La Rose embraced vivid red hues, the Amethyst goes for a subtler shade of duotone color with the main …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2023 Lexus LC 500 – Luxury & V8 Power Get Minor Updates For New Model Year

by

The 2023 Lexus LC 500 has always been in a very peculiar place in the two-door GT segment. The model seeks to dethrone many of the segment heavyweights, but it brings an old-school charm to its look that aims to appeal to a wide range of customers. Lexus is so confident in the model that it has carried over mostly unchanged for the 2023 model year. But is this policy of light updates a good long-term solution in a segment where rapid evolution has taken hold?   LC 500 Sails Full Steam Ahead Into The New Model Year As mentioned, …

Keep reading

First Look – 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse – Playing Second Fiddle Isn’t So Bad In This Pony

by

When the 2024 Ford Mustang lineup made its debut late last year, it was evident that a broader transition was taking place. The Mustang’s two bitter rivals (Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro) were all preparing to enter retirement due to electrification for the former and a collapse in sales for the bowtie brigade. This means that the Mustang will once again be all alone in the traditional pony car segment and will have the market largely to itself for the foreseeable future. But what will this segment domination formally look like? If the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse is to …

Keep reading

2025 Ford Mustang GTD Blurs The Line Between Track And Street, Brings 800 Horsepower To The Party

by

Ford’s venerable Mustang has always been the defacto symbol of performance. It has been a champion of rear-wheel drive, V8 power, and a touch of Americana (the Mustang Mach-E EV being the exception to the rule. However, tightening fuel regulations are rapidly closing in on the Mustang. Before the company is forced to make the model formally comply, it has once again partnered with racing firm Multimatic to produce the all-new 2025 Ford Mustang GTD.   Mustang GTD Slays The Rumormill & The Track Before the model was unveiled, wild rumors (as well as an ill-timed leak) pointed to the …

Keep reading

2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 limited review by Ben Lewis

by

Hyundai and sibling Kia have been killing it lately, from the sporty Elantra N sedan to the Kia Telluride 3-row SUV, each product has been impressive. But probably the most impressive to us, are the EV’s. We’ve tested the Ioniq 5 and loved the combination of utility, quirky style and performance. And now have the Ioniq 6 with added quirky style and performance – but a loss in the utility department. Is it another home run? Let’s put it up to bat. Meet the Streamliner Wow, indeed. We love that Hyundai dances to its own tune – the new Toyota …

Keep reading