SUVs

Road Test Review – 2021 Genesis GV80 Prestige – The Budget Bentley Of Your Dreams?

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The Bentley Benntayga is easily considered by many to be one of the pinnacle entries in the luxury SUV segment. Besides its sky-high price tag, the Bentayga also brings world-class luxury and performance to buyers. But what if your someone that wants some of the good life, but you don’t have the checkbook to bring home a Bentley? Genesis thinks it might have just the thing for the budget-conscious luxury SUV buyer with the Genesis GV80 but is it really a good budget alternative for luxury buyers looking to get the best of the high life?   GV80 Shares Family …

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2022 Jeep Compass Gains Tech And Poise In Windy City Debut

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The 2022 Jeep Compass might have made its debut all the way back in 2020, but the U.S. market has an insatiable appetite for CUVs, and Jeep knows that it has to stay ahead of the game when it comes to winning over buyers in this country. As such, it has chosen to bring the updated model stateside finally, and it appears that Jeep could be onto something here.    Jeep’s Compass Points More Confidently With New Exterior Styling  Buyers looking to spot any differences in the 2022 Jeep Compass will be forgiven if they can’t really tell it apart …

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First Look – 2022 BMW i4 and 2022 BMW iX – These Are The Electric BMWs To Watch For

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BMW is typically known for having a lineup of vehicles that try to be the “Ultimate Driving Machine” for consumers. But did you know that the company is also trying to create the Ultimate Green Machine? While the BMW i8 and the i3 were glimpses into the novel engineering techniques that the company was capable of in this segment, they were crude, and the pair were sales flops to boot. This time though, BMW is taking a more dedicated approach to creating an electric vehicle and recently unveiled a small glimpse of the future with the 2022 BMW i4 and …

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2021 Lexus NX300h Black Line Special Edition Review by Ben Lewis

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So, this is always a tough thing to do – a review of an existing model when an all-new model has been previewed. Well, that’s the problem here – an all new 2022 Lexus NX is waiting in the wings, so the question is should you wait, or plump for the 2021 NX? Let’s take a drive in the current model and find out! Blue Thunder The NX hasn’t changed much visually since it got a refresh in 2018, but that’s okay, it was a stunner then, and it is still a bold, strong presence. Up front, you get key …

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Jeep Shows Off 2022 Grand Cherokee 4xe, Confirms Big Plans For The Future

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Stellantis’s EV Day 2021 could perhaps go down in history as one of the biggest information dumps concerning green technology that we have seen in recent memory. Dodge and even Chrysler are getting into the EV race, and Jeep used its slice of the broader presentation to unveil not only the Grand Cherokee 4xe but also some of the bold plans and initiatives that it aims to introduce to consumers over the next few years.   Grand Cherokee 4xe Brings Electrification To Popular Family Model Before we get into some of the more ambitious plans that Jeep laid out today, we …

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Mysterious Chrysler Concept Shows That Brand IS Far From Dead, Could Hint At New Direction

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Stellantis’s EV Day has been a literal treasure trove of information concerning Stellantis’s EV moves moving forward. There are plenty of teasers, and we are still processing it all, but an early surprise for us is that there could indeed be a future for the Chrysler brand, with the company rolling out an all-electric Chrysler badged concept during a portion of its presentation.   Chrysler Concept Signals New Life For Troubled Brand Before the appearance of this latest concept, Chrysler was in proverbial and perhaps literal limbo. Once a strong cog in the broader sales machine long before Stellantis was …

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2021 Subaru Forester Limited Review by Ben Lewis

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Subaru’s are like old friends. Even when you haven’t seen them in a while, you feel immediately at home and comfortable. Good to be around. The Forester is certainly like that – we’ve recently been in a host of Outbacks, Crosstreks and WRXs, all great cars. But we miss our old buddy. Now friendship is one thing, but in the hyperventilating, ever-changing world of SUV’s you gotta keep up, too. So, is the Forester as good as we remember? A Familiar Face It’s no secret that the Outback and the Forester fight in the same arena for not-quite traditional SUV …

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Hyundai Promises A Track Focused Surprise, What Could It Be? The Elantra N?

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Hyundai is promising a big surprise on July 14th with the company releasing a brief teaser video that draws us to the fabled Nurburgring race track in Germany. The company might not be ready to reveal the full details just yet, but it appears that the Kona N and the recently teased Elantra N are involved.    What We Know So Far, Will We See The Elantra N? Hyundai’s teaser video does not reveal too much, with the bulk of the video featuring a computer-generated pen vigorously drawing the fore-mentioned track on a sheet of paper. After the pen performs …

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2022 Acura MDX A-Spec review by Ben Lewis

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If there’s one brand that’s working hard to reboot itself right now, it’s Acura. Honda’s luxury brand, it’s been cranking out impressive new products for the last year or so, starting with the excellent RDX and even more impressive TLX sedan. Of course, the big money currently is in the 3-row SUV segment, so when we got the new MDX to test we were excited. Let’s see if Acura keeps those fires burning! Bold New Style Like the RDX and TLX, the MDX is sharp, aggressive, and eye-catching. It looks bigger and more powerful, sitting on a wheelbase that’s 2.8-inches …

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Maserati Shuffles Trim Lineup For 2022, Adds GT And Modena Models

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Maserati‘s three-model lineup is soldiering on for 2022. Still, the Italian luxury carmaker chose to go in a unique direction for its updates this time around and has actually done some quick housecleaning to simplify the trim ladder for buyers, with the GT and Modena trims being added into the mix for the new model year.   So What’s Being Replaced? In this instance, the outgoing GranLusso and GranSport monikers were a prominent part of the brand’s identity for the past few years. In theory, they were supposed to project a higher identity in the minds of buyers, but they …

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Jeep Escalates The Tire Wars With Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package, Features 35-inch Tires

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The war between the Jeep Wrangler and the Ford Bronco is heating up, especially as the Bronco finally makes its way to dealerships. The Bronco made waves with its optional Sasquatch package, which equipped the off-roader with 35-inch off-road tires as well as a slight suspension lift. Naturally, that put the Wrangler at a disadvantage with such a combination only being offered in the aftermarket. Jeep aims to fix that and has unveiled its entry in the tire wars, the Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package.   Xtreme Recon Package Targets Sasquatch With Massive Tires Look at the Xtreme Recon Package, and …

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Infiniti Reveals Shapely 2022 QX60, Vastly Improved Inside And Out

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When we last checked in on the 2022 Infiniti QX60, it first appeared as a thinly veiled concept that made its virtual debut last September. The concept looked very slick, but it did not do too much to answer our questions about what the production version would bring to the table. Fast forward to today, and we finally get to see the revamped 2022 QX60, which aims to re-establish itself in the luxury SUV ranks.   Show Car Styling Mixes With Pure Functionality Unsurprisingly, the 2022 QX60 SUV retains much of its show car personality, which is good news for …

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2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy Review by Ben Lewis

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The Hyundai Santa Fe is a familiar name on the SUV landscape – it’s been around awhile, and has always stood for great value, room and style. But that landscape hasn’t sat still. With new players including bigger sibling the Hyundai Palisade and super popular Kia Telluride, can the Santa Fe Keep up with the big boys? Fresh New Look Hyundai has been on a roll lately, and it’s become a bit of style breakout. The Santa Fe has gotten a nice makeover that makes heads turn. Like almost every new model, a large grille is the way to go, …

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Ford Officially Starts Ford Bronco Production, Follows Series Of Delays

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It has been a long and obstacle-filled journey for the 2021 Ford Bronco. When Ford first announced that it was reviving the off-road icon, the model was looked at by many as one of the most important launches that the Dearborn-based automaker had ever done. But the COVID-19 pandemic and some of the ripple effects it generated derailed Ford’s original timeline of production, and the Bronco remained a common sight in the hands of engineers all over the Metro Detroit area. But at long last, production has formally begun with the Michigan Assembly Plant (MAP), finally assembling Broncos for consumer …

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2022 Subaru Forester Goes To The Gym, Debuts Chiseled New Styling In Japan Home Market

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First launched back in 2018, the fight generation Subaru Forester was designed to help the hot-selling utility catch up to the times in terms of styling and technology. The Forester is a hot selling model for the Japanese automaker and has become a must-have transportation tool for many families. But it never hurts to stay fresh, and the company has unveiled the refreshed 2022 Forester in Japan.   Fine Tuning The Forester Essentials Compared to some of the other updates that we have seen with some of its rivals, the Forester’s suite of changes is relatively minor. The front fascia …

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2022 Jeep Wagoneer Lineup Redefines The Delivery Experience, Here’s Three Key Ways It Does So

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With all the luxury, capability, and poise that the 2022 Wagoneer family brings to the table, a thing that is often overlooked is how Jeep will have dealers go through the formal process of delivering a Wagoneer to consumers, which not only goes in a noticeably different direction from other Jeep models but also serves as an example of Jeep marketers making a note of current sales techniques.   Taking Inspiration From European Rivals Before the arrival of the 2022 Wagoneer, the delivery experience for many Jeep models roughly reflected what you would see in a typical and trope-filled buying …

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2022 Lexus NX Goes For Maximum Styling, Debuts New 450h+ Model

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The Lexus NX is the Japanese luxury brand’s entry for city-dwelling millennials and Gen Z buyers looking for a utility that not only delivers the goods in terms of luxury appointments but is also compact enough to zip its way through city streets. While the NX proved to be popular with buyers, Lexus admitted that the outgoing model wasn’t perfect and has attempted to fix all of its shortcomings with the 2022 NX.   Slicker Styling Aims To Turn More Heads And Project A Sportier Image The exterior styling of the outgoing NX was, for better or for worse, a …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo – Cute Ute Gains New Muscle For The New Model Year

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When we first sampled the Mazda CX-30, it certainly came with a lot of promise and helped fill a void in Mazda‘s lineup. The one key problem was that the CX-30 lacked raw power, with the wheezy engine being a notable detriment to the CX-30. But Mazda isn’t one to rest on their laurels and wanted to give the 2021 CX-30 Turbo the chance to live up to the Japanese automaker’s legendary reputation for performance. It intends to do this by giving it a turbocharged alternative to its naturally aspirated ways, but is more boost the answer to its lagging …

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2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature vs 2021 Ford Escape Titanium – Which Mass Market Luxury SUV Is Best?

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Luxury, it seems, is becoming more of a factor in the world of utility vehicles. Once considered a backburner item in the minds of mainstream utility buyers, the ability to have more coddling features has rapidly morphed into a key SUV keystone. But which SUV can play the role of value-focused luxury entry best? To find out, we picked two SUVs (the 2021 Ford Escape Titanium and the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature) and put them through a battery of tests to try and find out which one reigns supreme? Both have benefited from minor updates since their last battle, and …

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Toyota Unveils 2022 Land Cruiser, Brings New Styling And Technology To Global Market

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Out of all the major launches that automakers are preparing for 2021, one of the most important is undoubtedly the 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser. An off-roading icon and the counterculture T-shirt wearing equivalent to the cardigan-wearing Land Rover family. The current-generation Land Cruiser has been on the scene for several years now, but it’s starting to get long in the tooth, especially in the face of tightening fuel economy regulations and evolving rivals. As a result, Toyota has unveiled the 2022 model, bringing newfound vigor and new technology to the venerable full-size trail buster.    Bigger And Better Land Cruiser …

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Dodge Reconsidering Hornet Nameplate? New Rumors Suggest It’s Happening

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It has been a very long time since we heard anything about the Dodge Hornet. The Hornet concept first appeared in 2006, with the euro chic concept dusting off the moniker from the ashes of the long-defunct AMC corporation. But factors beyond the company’s control delayed a production model before it was ultimately scrubbed. But is it coming back after all? A new batch of rumors suggests that’s indeed the case.   Same Name, Different Outcome? If the basic idea of the concept has been revived according to rumors published by the Italian website Passione Auto Italiane, the Hornet will …

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2022 Buick Enclave Brings New Styling, Enhanced Standard Equipment To Buyers

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When we last met the 2022 Buick Enclave, it was back in January when the brand slipped two photos of it to the assembled press during a broader event starring the smaller Buick Envision. The duet of pictures highlighted revamped exterior styling but did little to answer our questions surrounding the new interior. Nevertheless, Buick has lifted the veil of secrecy and has shed new light on what consumers can expect from Buick’s rebooted flagship.   Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Beholder One of the most significant changes that the Enclave received for 2022 is all-new exterior styling. …

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Toyota Expands Its CUV Footprint With 2022 Corolla Cross, Could It Be The End Of The CH-R?

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Toyota‘s CH-R CUV has had a rather rocky sales career, with this last remaining relic of Scion being eclipsed by some of its rivals. However, it would seem that Toyota is out to change the narrative and has unveiled the 2022 Corolla Cross, which will be coming to the U.S. for the first time.   Familiar Name Crosses The Pond While this is the first time U.S. buyers have laid their eyes on the Corolla Cross, the model has been an international exclusive for a while now, with the model debuting back in 2020. Like its global cousins, the U.S. …

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2022 Toyota 4Runner Keeps The Show Going With All New TRD Sport Trim

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The Toyota 4Runner has always been a fascinating case when it comes to the world of off-road SUVs. It has aged with the grace and dignity of a typewriter (or a pioneer-era hornbook), yet it still manages to deliver the goods when it comes to sales and performance. Toyota, however, is focusing on pavement-based adventures this time around, with the 2022 4Runner TRD Sport.   A Beast Of Burden For The Road Commonly Traveled As the name implies, the TRD Sport goes in a different direction when compared to its siblings. Whereas the rest of the trim ladder (SR5 TRD …

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2021 Infiniti QX80 Premium Select Review

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Infiniti QX80 Premium Select 4wd The current generation Infiniti QX80 has been around for a decade now, yet it remains a strong seller for the brand. For 2021 improvements are minor, as is expected for year to year updates. The main focus for 2021 is more standard driver-assistance features. Exterior The exterior of the QX80 was last updated in 2018 and no major changes have taken place for the 2021 model year. It’s a sleek design that makes the massive SUV appear muscular and sporty. The Premium Select trim has dark chrome appearance features which work very well with the …

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2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 53 Coupe Review by Ben Lewis

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So, here’s a challenge to many manufacturers – with SUV’s being so popular, how do you keep things fresh? One trend we’ve seen are the “coupe-like” SUV’s, which trade off some of the utility (and headroom) for a racy profile. It’s especially popular with the Europeans, with everything from VW’s Atlas Cross Sport to BMW’s X4 and X6. Mercedes won’t be left out either, so we’re now enjoying GLE Coupe. But with a coupe, you’re driven by passion, so we were especially excited to get our grabby little hands on an AMG GLE 53 Coupe. Big vehicle, larger-than-life performance. This …

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Jeep Releases Full Pricing For 2022 Wagoneer Lineup, Base Model Starts At $69,995, Grand Version Tops Out At $111K

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When the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer made its splashy debut back in March, the off-road brand talked about creating the most luxurious model it has ever done while also reviving an icon at the same time. But like the Sumatran Tiger or the Snow Leopard, the big three-row Jeep disappeared from the broader radar with our appetite being somewhat satiated by occasional sightings in the wild (especially here in Metro Detroit.) But Jeep wants you to keep the Wagoneer family fresh in your mind and has unveiled the full pricing ladder for the Wagoneer family head of its dealership rollout, be …

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2021 MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4 Review by Ben Lewis

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There have always been a percentage of people out there who love the MINI Cooper’s bulldog looks, cheeky attitude and British persona (although BMW has owned them since 2003)  but just found the diminutive hatch a little too small. And MINI has been busy bringing in a variety of models, including the Clubman – longer and wider – and the Countryman – taller and wider. We’ve always liked the Countryman, it adds just enough usability to function like a small SUV, but still has that MINI charm. MINI points out that it’s the first model with an exterior length of …

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Markup Watch – Kia Dealership Bewilders With Massive Markup On Telluride SUV

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Mark-ups are nothing new when it comes to buying a car. Many dealerships see the hype surrounding the launch of a potentially desirable model and try their best to get a bigger slice of the profit pie. But when does this go from being a minor annoyance to something totally egregious? A Kia dealership apparently thinks that the popular Telluride SUV is worth its weight in gold and has given it quite the markup to match.   It’s How Much? First appearing via Reddit before being spotted by our friends at Motor1 the dealership in question has added quite a bit …

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Ford Details Pre-Wired Upfitter Switches For Bronco, Aims To Take The Hassle Out Of Customization

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The 2021 Ford Bronco is shaping up to be a very potent off-road offering and could perhaps be the most serious threat that the Jeep Wrangler has faced out on the trail. Ford knows that its customers will customize their Bronco purchase at some point during the ownership experience. They might do it immediately or prefer to wait till later, but regardless of the timeline, the Bronco is always a blank canvas 24/7. That’s why Ford is preparing for the inevitable wave of modifications by shedding some new light on the pre-wired up fitter switches that will be equipped to …

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Ford Goes To The Backwoods With 2021 Explorer Timberline

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The Ford Explorer is rapidly morphing into a jack of all trades. While the Explorer has always had this trait for the duration of its life, it’s hard to argue that things really accelerated when the current generation Explorer appeared. The recently launched King Ranch model offered a very compelling luxury alternative in the lineup, but what if your a buyer that does not need all the frills and instead prefers something that can bring the fight to the Jeep Cherokee as well as the recently unveiled Outback Wilderness. Ford is keenly aware of this and has unleashed an all-new …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Aston Martin DBX – One Small Step For SUVs, One Giant Leap For Aston?

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The allure of SUV sales is a potent perfume, and it’s slowly drawing in more companies. This includes those that might have otherwise been known for producing purely car-based lineups. Bentley, Lamborghini, and even Rolls Royce have all thrown their collective hats in the ring, eager to seize a slice of this new frontier for themselves. Aston Martin might have been a bit late to the party, but it intends to place its battle flag on the segment with the 2021 Aston Martin DBX. But can the DBX stem the sales decay that once defined the brand while also putting …

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2021 Kia Telluride SX V6 AWD Review by Ben Lewis

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When we first tested the Telluride in 2019 we said Kia was on a roll. And honestly, that was the tip of the iceberg – everything from the fun Forte GT sedan and Soul SUV to the new K5 have wowed us. So, when we had the opportunity to re-visit the full-size 3-row SUV that really has been one of the brand’s biggest (figuratively and literally) success stories, we were thrilled. Was Big. Now Big and Bad. The big truck has had few changes for 2021, which is fine – this is one of the most handsome vehicles in its …

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2021 Ford Bronco Sport Proves Its Chops, Crushes Crash Tests With Perfect Rating

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Sibling rivalry is everywhere these days, and that includes the automotive industry. With its big brother being delayed by multiple COVID-19 related delays, the smaller Bronco Sport has risen to the occasion and has played a big role in Ford expanding its efforts to transform the Bronco nameplate into a lifestyle brand. The Bronco Sport has just begun filtering its way into dealerships. Ford is now revealing that the small SUV managed to achieve a big milestone when it comes to safety, with the off-roader getting a perfect crash-test score from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS.)    An …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum – The Perfect Escalade?

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Progress can be a potent symbol of just how far one has come in one development. A case in point is the 2021 Cadillac Escalade which is the most promising version of Cadillac‘s full-size luxury SUV. But it wasn’t too long ago that the model started as nothing more than a lightly dressed-up GMC Yukon with a Cadillac badge. The Escalade rapidly cleaned up its act and is now a segment benchmark. But the rest of the competition is evolving too, and we wanted to know. Can the 2021 Escalade evolve enough to not only retain its status in the …

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Performance For The Whole Family, Hyundai Unveils 2022 Kona N, Promises To Take Fun To The N’th Degree

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When we first had the chance to sample the Veloster N, we fell in love with its simple mixture of performance, style, and value. However, we will admit that a spunky three-door hatchback is not the most practical choice in the world for many performance buyers. Hyundai understands this and has formally unveiled the 2022 Kona N, which aims to shock the system in the CUV market.   Taking Performance To The N’th Degree To say that the Kona N is a disruptor in the segment will be a very massive understatement, with the Kona N perhaps being one of …

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Volkswagen Releases Official Pricing For 2022 Taos, Starts At $24,190

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The compact SUV market is exploding in popularity right now, with many new entries emerging on the scene to tale their respective slice of the broader sales pie. Volkswagen is poised to make a surgical strike on the segment with the 2022 Taos. While it has been a while since its unveiling, Volkswagen has formally revealed pricing for the Taos, and it’s clear that it’s aiming to put the squeeze on some of its rivals.   Making A Name For Itself The 2022 Taos is replacing the Golf lineup here in the U.S. (enthusiasts can still buy the GTI and …

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Cadillac Unveils Production 2023 Lyriq, Keeps Show Car Flair And Technology

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When we got our first glimpse at the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq, it was a pure concept, and Cadillac representatives made it clear that there was still work that needed to be done to make it production-ready. The exterior styling was obviously focused on drawing stares, and the lack of side mirrors would have certainly drawn the attention of the nearest NHTSA official. But after a short wait, Cadillac has finally unveiled the production version, which retains a lot of the show car mystique but with some minor changes to help the formula work better.   Lyriq Exterior Styling Still Looks …

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2022 Mercedes EQB Is The GLB’s EV Brother, Mixes Utility With Zero Emissions Driving

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Mercedes’s EQ brand aims to shake up the electric vehicle segment, and the company knows that for EQ to succeed through its growing pains, it needs more models to reach out to a wider swath of buyers. While the EQS flagship sedan is a glitzy showpiece of technology, SUVs are currently the must-have commodity. EQ will achieve this with their latest utility offering, the 2022 EQB EV SUV.   GLB Heritage With EQ Styling The EQB is closely related to the GLB SUV, and as a result, the EQ version shares some of its most basic body lines with its …

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Aston Martin Debuts Pastel Collection, Limited To California Market

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Summer is rapidly approaching and that means adding some lighter colors into your closet to help prepare for the sunnier side of the year. But what if you want to add some extra color to your garage and have the checkbook required to do it? If this is you and you happen to live in California Aston Martin might just have a fashionable solution to your summertime fashion worries with an all-new Pastel paint collection.   Five Flavors of Summer Style The infusion of color comes courtesy of Aston Martin of Newport Beach (one of the biggest Aston dealerships in …

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2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI Review by Ben Lewis

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When we used to go to movie theaters (and we can’t wait to go back!) they had a selection of sizes on the popcorn, and we liked the largest one – mostly because they unapologetically put the motto “Big is More” right on the tub. Yes, a tub. And the same is true of SUV’s – big is more. And if you need three rows of Audi SUV goodness, you can stop right here at the beautiful Q7. With some major improvements for the new Q7, it’s more than before. Let’s take a look. Big and Beautiful This is a …

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Hyundai Teases Kona N, Confirms More Will Be Revealed April 27th

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Long teased and the subject of numerous rumors around the world, Hyundai revealed that it plans to pull the cover off of the 2022 Kona N on April 27th with the Kona’s appearance also serving as a launching point for some of the sub-brand’s other upcoming models too as it looks to become a legit competition to the likes of the M, and AMG models.   2022 Kona N Promises To Be A Potent Hauler Before we pull out the crystal ball on N’s other models we might as well focus on the present and talk about the 2022 Kona …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Lexus RX 350 F-Sport – New Technology And Tweaks Spice Up Family Hauler

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Keeping things fresh can be hard in the automotive industry, especially if you’re a car company. Lexus designers faced this prospect when they went about updating the venerable Lexus RX SUV for 2021. The RX lineup is the bread and butter for Lexus’s coffers, and as a result, it’s essential to retain the core fundamentals that Lexus buyers love about the RX while making enough changes to help it stay fresh. Did Lexus succeed? We were keen and eager to find out.   Aging Exterior Styling Losing Ground To Rivals The exterior styling of the 2021 Lexus RX 350 is …

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2021 Lexus UX 200 F SPORT Review by Ben Lewis

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In marketing terms, UX is the shorthand for “User Experience”. So, it seems a natural question, does Lexus’ smallest Crossover/SUV give you the user experience luxury buyers expect? Let’s take a look. Familiar Sporty Style Look at the UX and you can see the family resemblance with the larger NX and RX crossovers. That’s a good thing – Lexus has really crafted its own style now, and these vehicles are modern and sporty with sharp angles and aggressive lines. Like our recent review of the Lexus ES250 AWD, the front end has that massive spindle grille, but like the ES, …

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Honda’s New Trailsport Logo Revealed In Patent Filing, Suggests Off-Road Models Are Coming

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While Honda‘s reputation for creating strong selling vehicles with high build quality is pretty much undisputed, the Japanese car giant has never been known for venturing too far into the off-road segment. This is partly due to the company not offering formal body-on-frame models like an SUV or pickup that could take the punishment often associated with going off the beaten path. However, a leaked patent filing suggests that Honda is eying the trail very seriously with a new Trailsport moniker and is perhaps eying the bigger sales that come with it.   What Could Trailsport Bring To Honda? Our …

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Ford Explorer Platinum Gains RWD Variant For 2021, Also Goes Green With Hybrid Model

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With the 2021 Enthusiast ST stealing the show in regards to the Explorer’s 2021 updates, Ford wanted to ensure that no stone was left unturned and has revealed that the range-topping Explorer Platinum will also receive some new additions for 2021 with the trim now adding a rear-wheel-drive option and even a hybrid flavored model for fuel-conscious buyers.   Rear Wheel Drive For The Jet Set Sets Explorer Platinum Apart In its base form, the $54,480 Explorer Platinum is a very potent statement of luxury with perforated leather seats, warm wood accents, and standard all-wheel-drive to buyers looking to have …

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Ford Enhances Explorer ST Bang For The Buck With All New 2021 Enthusiast ST Package

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The current generation Ford Explorer is proving to be a very profitable cash cow for the Dearborn-based automaker, with the recently launched King Ranch variant adding a new dimension of luxury to the model. However, the company is also listening to consumer feedback and is using the opportunity to address a potential roadblock for Explorer ST buyers, the price. It plans to achieve this with the introduction of the all-new Explorer Enthusiast ST.   Lowering The Cost Of Explorer ST Admission When the standard Explorer ST model appeared on the road, it promised to be a true performance offering for …

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GMC Goes Full Circle With Hummer EV SUV, Brings Zero Emissions To Family SUV

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When GMC first unveiled the Hummer EV pickup, the brand neither confirmed nor denied plans were in the works for an SUV version. Fast forward to the 2021 March Madness tournament, and GMC officially confirmed that the Hummer SUV is for real and that it will be officially bringing the revived moniker full-circle in its quest to achieve true redemption in the eyes of a fuel-conscious world.   The Ultimate Zero Emissions Family Vehicle As the name and basic look imply, the 2024 Hummer EV SUV is the marriage of the truck’s EV technology with an SUV body. The exterior …

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Ford Leaves Its Mark At Easter Jeep Safari, Shows Off Five Custom Bronco Builds

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The Easter Safari event has been one that has always been synonymous with Jeep and some of the wild custom creations that the off-road brand would show to eager attendees. Ford wants a slice of the action and has revealed its plans to invade the 2021 Easter Safari with five different custom Broncos that aim to show Jeep that it’s serious about bringing the fight to the brand in the quest to achieve true off-road supremacy.   RTR Leads The Charge To help facilitate this ambitious plan, Ford teamed up with RTR Vehicles (a firm better known for its Mustang-based …

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2021 Dodge Durango Hellcat Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 Dodge Durango Hellcat Adding the Hellcat Durango to the list in Dodge’s 700+ horsepower stable, and dropping the Journey and Grand Caravan, Dodge now offers a hellcat in all of their current production vehicles. Exterior The exterior of the Hellcat Durango, as with the SRT, is subdued yet powerful. The hood contains two functional vents and a hood scoop. The bumper is more aggressive than the standard Durango, and a little lower. From the side the Hellcat Durango is very similar to other Durangos. However, there is a noticeable bulge in the hood, the splitter on the front bumper …

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2021 Toyota Venza Limited Review by Ben Lewis

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Toyota likes to offer something for just about everybody. That’s what makes them consistently in the top two (sometimes 1st, sometimes 2nd to VW) manufacturers in the world. So, let’s say you have your heart set on a new SUV. Perhaps the RAV4 feels too small, and the Highlander too large. No worries! Introducing the all-new 2021 Toyota Venza, as they say in the three bears…this one’s just right. Sleek and Sophisticated One look and you know this isn’t your Auntie’s Venza! (That model went away in 2015). While the Venza shares a chassis with the RAV4, it looks entirely …

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2021 Mercedes AMG GLE63 S Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 Mercedes AMG GLE63 S The Mercedes AMG GLE63 S lives in a market segment we don’t fully understand. What we do know, is that we love the absurdity of it. Exterior From the outside the GLE63 is a little deceiving. From some angles it appears much smaller than it actually is, but not from the front. The grill is large, but the gigantic outboard bumper openings are what really draw attention. With the massive Mercedes tri star emblem in the center of the grill, there is no question who makes the GLE. There are very bright LED headlights with …

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Jeep Wrangler Magneto Headlines Easter Jeep Safari, First Wrangler BEV Establishes Off-Road Chops

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When Jeep first teased the Magneto, we had no idea what exactly Jeep had up its sleeve. FCA/Stellantis was always behind the eight ball when it came to developing battery technology, and we weren’t too sure if the Magneto would be a pure electric offering or if it would be some sort of hybrid offering. But as it turns out, Jeep engineers did have a green surprise and revealed that the Magneto will be the first BEV Wrangler ever made.   Electrifying The Trails For the moment, the Magneto exists as a one-off concept creation, but as the name implies, …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Lexus GX 460 Luxury – An Aging Veteran In A Digital World

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The pace of change can be a tough mistress to keep up with sometimes. Technology has been on a nitrous-powered rocket as far as progress is concerned, with the amount of evolution here being very noticeable over the last few decades. But while some automakers have made the art of luring customers with the next big thing an art form. What if you’re a consumer that prefers to hang on to old technology and prefers to own a tool that’s reliable and proven? Lexus might have the thing you’re looking for with the 2021 Lexus GX 460. But can the …

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Jeep Wagoneer Family Vs Ford Expedition How Does It Measure Up?

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The dust is still settling off of Jeep‘s unveiling of the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer family. We went into depth on the duo here, but we wanted to dive deep and see how the Wagoneer and the Grand Wagoneer measure up against a key rival, the 2021 Ford Expedition. The big Ford is arguably one of the most popular family haulers in the market today and will undoubtedly be a potent measuring stick for the Wagoneer. Check out how the tale of the tape measures up below.   The War Of Styling Favors Wagoneer When it comes to aesthetics, we think …

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Jeep Unveils 2022 Grand Wagoneer & Wagoneer Models, Luxury Meshes With Proven Performance

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It has been a long time coming, but Jeep has finally taken the veil off of the 2022 Grand Wagoneer and Wagoneer models. The duo signifies that the SUV brand is taking a serious approach to the full-size SUV market and is a grand departure from the failed Commander of the early 2000s. But buyers will be interested to know what the revived off-road icon is packing under the hood and some of the exotic luxury features that can be found inside the Grand Wagoneer? We have the answers, and here are some key things to know about Jeep’s rebooted …

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Jeep Teases Wrangler Easter Safari Concepts, Confirms Magneto Nameplate

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The annual Easter Jeep Safari is rapidly approaching, and despite the pressures of a pandemic, the off-road gods have found a way to soldier on with this time-honored tradition. It’s also a busy week for Jeep, which has been on a blitz when teasing new models. Yesterday was our latest glimpse at the 2022 Grand Wagoneer, and now the brand confirms that the Magneto nameplate is coming to a Wrangler concept that will be making its debut at the event.   Put Down Your Comic Books This Is Indeed Happening When Jeep first teased this mysterious concept, we initially thought …

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2021 Toyota Rav4 Prime XSE AWD Video Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 Rav4 Prime Overview The Rav4 Prime is Toyota’s plug in hybrid version of the Rav4. It has the most horsepower and torque and is the quickest Rav4 we’ve tested. Our test model was a Rav4 Prime XSE AWD. The base price is $41,425, but our tester was nicely equipped with premium audio ($1,650), Weather Package (375), Special Color ($425), Premium Package ($3,765), and a few other minor things totaling $731. Throw in the $1,120 destination charge and the total MSRP of our tester was $49,461. The Rav4 Prime has impressive driving chacteristics and is fun to drive. We enjoyed …

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2021 Renegade and Wrangler Islander Models Embrace Summer Vibes

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The snow is melting and for many parts of the country, it’s getting a bit warmer. While summer is still a few months away, that didn’t stop Jeep from revealing its newest crop of special edition models the 2021 Renegade and Wrangler Islander models. Like other special edition models, this island-themed duo aims to bring younger buyers to showrooms while also adding some spice to the lineup at the same time.   Renegade Islander Catches Some Rays With Islander Package Before we get into the Wrangler, we might as well start things off with the tiny Renegade crossover which receives …

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2020 Mazda CX-9

Road Test Review – 2020 Mazda CX-9 Signature – The Ultimate Signature of Luxury?

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In a world where many CUVs appear to have been crafted out of soulless toasters and dryers, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 has emerged as a very vibrant exception to the rule. The exterior styling looks like it was lifted from a sports car, and the interior blurs the line between mainstream and luxury. But in a segment where the pool is rapidly becoming a very crowded place, Mazda’s biggest utility offering needs to be sharper than ever. But does it succeed in drawing attention to itself? Or does it miss the mark in other regards?   Sultry Exterior Styling Makes …

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Land Rover Ups The Insanity With All New 2022 Defender V8, Last Hurrah For Eight Cylinder Fun?

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When we had the chance to review the revived Land Rover Defender, we liked how it managed to add a new twist to an endearing icon. But while the turbocharged mild-hybrid inline-six is a welcome slice of power, it was quite obvious that the platform was capable of handling much more power. Land Rover engineers have apparently heard our musings and unleashed the 2022 Land Rover Defender V8.   Muscular V8 Transforms The Defender V8 Into a Beast It’s not very often that we highlight the performance hardware first, but in this case, the Defender V8 is all about promoting …

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Ford Brings Wild West Luxury To 2021 Explorer King Ranch, Rear Wheel Drive Comes To 3.0 Liter V6

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When Ford first teased an all-new King Ranch model was on the way, the company initially was vague on what model will be adorned with the wild west theme. We initially suspected the Explorer, but the brief teaser video was lacking in detail. As it turns out, we were on the right track with the Blue Oval officially unveiling the 2021 Explorer King Ranch.   Light Exterior Tweaks Define King Ranch Transformation Like other King Ranch models in the fold, the Explorer King Ranch brings several unique touches inside and out. But before we get into the good stuff inside, …

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Ioniq 5

Hyundai Unveils 2022 Ioniq 5 EV, Will Feature Ultra Fast Charging and Futuristic Interior

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When Hyundai revealed that it was launching the all-new Ioniq sub-brand, we were very interested in seeing what would help spearhead the launch of this green-focused brand. After months of teasers, the Korean car giant has answered this key question with the unveiling of the production version of the 2022 Ioniq 5 EV. The Ioniq 5 might look like a hatchback initially, but it’s actually an advanced SUV and aims to change the way buyers look at electric cars in a few key ways.   Futuristic Design Sets Ioniq 5 Apart From Rivals One of the Ioniq brand’s core driving …

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Ford Teases 2021 Explorer King Ranch, Set To Debut Feb 24th

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Ford’s lineup of King Ranch models has become very potent sellers for the Blue Oval. There’s no denying that it’s a trendy upgrade for buyers from the massive Expedition to the mighty F-Series pickups. But what if you want the King Ranch experience in a smaller package? Ford might have the answer with the 2021 Explorer King Ranch.   Eddie Who? Something big is coming to the ranch. 🗓 February 24. pic.twitter.com/bhYuAxyPBP — Ford Motor Company (@Ford) February 22, 2021 Ford’s brief teaser video didn’t reveal too much with only a fleeting glimpse of the exterior as the Explorer thundered …

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Mitsubishi Reinvents The Wheel With 2022 Outlander, New Styling and Technology Reinvent Languishing Nameplate

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Regarding major facelifts, few are as big of a deal as the one that the Mitsubishi Outlander has received for 2022. The Outlander’s last revamp was back in 2014, and it has slipped behind rivals ever since. While our previous exposures to the Outlander did allow us to soak in its impressive fuel economy numbers, it also showed just how behind the times it was, especially regarding interior quality and technology. The 2022 model aims to change that, and here are our four favorite things about this revamped Mitsu.   Concept Car Styling In A Utility Driven World The exterior …

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Chevrolet Adds Magic To Bolt Lineup for 2022, Unveils All New Bolt EUV and Updated Bolt EV

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It’s no secret that General Motors is committed to an all-electric future. The company fired the first big salvo when the Hummer EV made its virtual debut. The Hummer was just the beginning of GM’s Ultium battery-powered endeavor, with the Cadillac Lyriq and Celestiq also teased. However, the company knows that it needs to have offerings at the lower end of the pricing bracket to bring in more customers. That’s where the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV and the redesigned Bolt EV models come into play. No Ultium Here But Still Plenty To See Before we go any further, we might …

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Stellantis Files Trademark For Magneto Moniker, Could It Be Name For Wrangler BEV?

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We’ll admit Jeep and Stellantis did a good job catching our attention when they revealed that a Wrangler EV concept would be making its debut soon. But we were left with more questions than answers since Jeep chose only to release two shadowy images and a brief teaser video of the Wrangler EV buried in the brand’s “The Road Ahead” website. But a newly discovered patent filing suggests that we could at least get a hint into what the concept will be called with the Magneto name making its appearance.   Magneto Makes Us Run For Our X-Men Comics When …

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2022 Nissan Pathfinder Pitches The CVT, Gains New Interior Technology and Revamped Exterior Styling

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The Nissan Pathfinder has always been a reliable soldier for Nissan when it came to competing in the mid-size utility segment. The Pathfinder is one of Nissan’s strongest sellers. Still, it was also one of the oldest models in its arsenal, with the Pathfinder only bested in that dubious distinction by the outgoing Nissan Frontier pickup. Nissan is keen to keep the Pathfinder viable and has unveiled the updated 2022 Pathfinder to the digital masses.   What’s Wrong With Being Confident? Much like the hit song by music artist Demi Lovato, Nissan aimed to make the Pathfinder look much more …

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Ford Bronco To Compete In King of The Hammers, Aims To Solidify Go Anywhere Reputation

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The Ford Bronco is already one of the most hyped vehicles of 2021 and we had a chance to see it embrace its racing pedigree with the Bronco recently taking part in the 2020 running of the Baja 1000 race. But Ford is always up for a challenge and has its eyes set on an even bigger prize, winning the 2021 King of The Hammers off-road race.   Ultra4 Bronco Aims To Slay The Trails The Dearborn auto giant is hoping to cement its place in history by entering three Bronco based entries which will compete in the Ultra4 4400 …

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Nissan Teases 2022 Pathfinder In New Video, Appears To Confirm V6 Powertrain

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It has been a long time since we heard anything new about the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder. The current generation Pathfinder has been a key offering for Nissan over the past few years but it’s also due for a more comprehensive update. Nissan has ended its radio silence and released an all new teaser video ahead of the Pathfinder’s debut in February.   Is That a V6 We Hear Under The Hood? Nissan’s video was quite brief but there is still a number of details that can be gleaned from this brief piece of footage. For instance, you can hear what …

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2022 Tucson N Line

Hyundai Brings N Line Package To 2022 Tucson N Line, Sporty Style Blends With Practicality

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Sportiness and SUVs can be two words that many people will not necessarily see co-existing together. But as the utility world continues to rapidly evolve and morph into a vital artery of sales for automakers, we have noticed a trend towards adding some spice to their utility offerings especially to draw in male buyers that might otherwise stay away from them. Hyundai is determined to get its N Line package on solid footing, and has unveiled the second iteration of the package on the 2022 Tucson N Line.   Tucson N Line Puts On Quite A Show Like other N-Line …

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Xterra

Nissan Dealers Beg Company To Bring Back Xterra SUV, Cite Rapidly Increasing Demand In Off-Road Segment

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It’s no secret that the off-road vehicle market has seen a massive surge in interest and popularity among buyers over the past few years. The Ram TRX, Ford Raptor, and even venerable icons like the Jeep Wrangler and its pickup cousin the Gladiator are encouraging more buyers to explore nature and the beaten paths that lead to them. One notable brand that has been absent from the party so far is Nissan but many dealers are demanding the return of the iconic Xterra nameplate to help them cash in on some of the fruits of this sales surge   An …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Toyota RAV4 Limited Hybrid – Does Luxury and Green Driving Mix?

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The RAV4 has emerged as one of the most versatile SUVs in Toyota‘s vehicle arsenal. The RAV4 has a foundation that can be suited for a wide variety of uses including camping as we proved in a prior RAV4 related test and even in the plug-in realm with the recently launched RAV4 Prime. But what if your a buyer that’s looking for something that can sip fuel instead and also deliver decent amounts of comfort for the money? Toyota may have just the solution for you with the RAV4 Hybrid Limited. But does this particular flavor of RAV4 go far …

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2021 Honda Pilot Black Edition by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the VW Atlas, and came away impressed with the 3-row SUV’s nice driving manners and European feel. A VW through and through to be sure. And now we have Honda’s competitor for your same hard-earned dollar the 3-row Pilot. So how does it stack up? Let’s take a look! Dressed to Impress Following the sensible design of such models as the CR-V and Passport, the Pilot was never one to knock you over. In fact, we loved the original Pilot, which was a big, square and blocky – so functional it was stylish in its own way. …

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2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD by Ben Lewis

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You don’t really have to twist our arms to get us to review a Mazda. Just about all of them are great fun to drive, from the Miata sports car up to the big CX-9 SUV. The Mazda 3 and CX30 are also faves. But the heart and soul of Mazda’s lineup – and for most manufacturers – is its compact SUV. And with some nice updates to make it more appealing, we’re excited to take to the road in the CX-5. Stay Classy, CX-5 For 2021 not much has changed on the CX-5’s shapely flanks, and that’s ok, it …

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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Revealed, More Tech, Revamped Styling and Third Row Are Highlights [Video]

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While the Jeep brand is usually better known for the rough and rugged Wrangler and Gladiator models, the Grand Cherokee SUV still plays a vital role in the company’s sales ambitions. First making its debut in 1993, the Grand Cherokee has been a vital cog in Jeep’s operations and is the true bread and butter model of the off-road focused brand. The current generation Grand Cherokee is still a strong seller, but as we mentioned in our last GC related piece, it’s long overdue for a revamp. Jeep has finally addressed this with the unveiling of the 2021 Grand Cherokee …

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Jeep Teases 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Will Make Debut January 7th, 3 Key Things To Know

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Jeep had alot on its plate when it was developing the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. but the numerous renderings and spy photos have all led us to this key moment with Jeep revealing that the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be making its debut in less than 24 hours. The Grand Cherokee has always been a very important model for Jeep, and the 2021 iteration is no different. Here’s three key things that you should look out for when it makes its debut.   Debuts new Grand Cherokee L designation More room for adventure. Tune in tomorrow at 12 PM …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier: Is GM’s Full-Size SUV Better Than Ever?

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When we last had the chance to see the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, it was when the made their debut at the Little Caesars Arena late last year. The Suburban and the Tahoe rolled across the stage debuting brand new exterior styling, a revamped platform, and a completely reworked interior that aimed to rocket Chevrolet into the modern age. But can the duo follow up on the success of their predecessors while also incorporating new ideas at the dame time? We were eager to find out.   Refreshed duds keep Tahoe fresh To find out, Chevrolet sent us a …

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2021 VW Atlas V6 SEL Premium R-Line by Ben Lewis

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The 3-row SUV segment is a funny thing. It seems to get hot and cold. Suddenly everyone wants one. Then just as suddenly, only those with an absolute need want them. Right now the market is hot, hot, with big winners including the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade and Toyota Highlander. Along with them has been the VW Atlas, which for 2021 gets a bit of a makeover, helping it take on these relative upstarts. How does it stack up? Let’s take a look! Bigger and Buffer While the Atlas has been the poster child for the “Big Box” SUV school …

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2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 pricing breaks cover, costs more than Hellcat powered Ram TRX

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When the first factory powered Jeep Wrangler in over four decades first made its appearance back in November, the world was pleasantly surprised. Granted, it was an obvious attempt by FCA to steal attention away from the revived Ford Bronco but the notion of a Wrangler being infused with the same 6.4 liter Hemi V8 seen in other SRT products was very enticing. Early pricing for the Wrangler 392 had emerged, and be prepared to pay accordingly for the chance to have some V8 powered Wrangler fun. It costs more than the Ram TRX, for real This information does not …

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2021 Volvo XC60 T5 AWD Momentum by Ben Lewis

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Volvo has always gone its own way. In the early days, they were stout little machines, that were some of the greatest innovators when it came to safety. Their rugged and reliable drivetrains helped make them rally champions, and became legendary for logging high miles. (Remember that guy with the P1800 that went over 3 million miles?). Outside of maybe the P1800, they weren’t really known for being stylish – they were sensible and functional, but design wasn’t on the menu. And then suddenly we got the modern Volvo, and taking a page out of Swedish Design, with its cool …

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Hyundai makes Palisade Calligraphy more accessible, adds front wheel drive variant

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Hyundai‘s range topping Palisade Calligraphy comes loaded to the brim with technology and even adds extra amounts of luxury to the Palisade. But what if your a family buyer that wants to add one to your growing garage but don’t need all-wheel drive and would like to save a few pennies in the process? If that description fits you, Hyundai has delivered an early Christmas present that aims to add some extra cheer to your holiday. Front wheel drive with all the luxury Palisade fittings So how was Hyundai able to shave some dollars from the Calligraphy’s sticker? It all …

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Nissan brings new technology and revamped styling to 2021 Armada: 5 things you should pay attention to

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Nissan is wading through some troubled waters as the Japanese auto company tries to not only navigate its way through the fallout created by the ouster of former CEO Carlos Ghosn but also the unique economic challenges brought about by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The recent unveiling of the Z Proto concept showed that the company was off to a good start, and it has now brought this renewed vigor to the flagship SUV segment with the unveiling of the heavily revamped 2021 Armada. Like the company, the Armada was adrift for a while, watching helplessly as rivals were updated …

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Acura unveils the 2022 MDX SUV: 5 Important Things To Know

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When Acura unveiled the MDX Prototype Concept it was very clear that the Japanese luxury brand was taking the flagship SUV market very seriously. The company wanted to show that it still had some tricks up its sleeve and that its ongoing efforts to rebuild its performance heritage were not merely a smoke and pony show. Thankfully after a brief wait Acura has pulled the veil off of the 2022 MDX which aims to shatter the perceptions that people have about Acura. Here’s five important things to know about Acura’s new and improved people hauler.   It’s a looker Acura …

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2020 Sequoia TRD Pro

2020 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Review: Off-Roading For The Whole Family

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When it comes to blazing through rugged off-road trails and countless other slices of the road less traveled few can compete with Toyota‘s TRD Pro lineup. From the Tacoma and Tundra pickups to the venerable 4-Runner the Japanese auto giant has a tool available to help you best Jeep Wranglers Chevy Colorado ZR2s and others in rough and tumble dogfights. But what if your an off-road enthusiast that has a growing family and you want to take them along for the ride? For awhile, you were limited to the 4-Runner which is a capable hauler in its own right, but …

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Lexus swings for the fences with the 2020 Lexus UX 250h hybrid, comes up short

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It’s no secret that Lexus practically invented the luxury SUV category when it first debuted the RX a few decades ago. The RX was a hit and it rode a proverbial sales rocket towards the top of the segment. Despite some recent challenges by a few rivals, Lexus is clearly trying to replicate the success of that model. It’s doing so by introducing a diverse range of smaller crossover models but can models like the 2020 UX 250h hybrid bring some much needed to the lineup? Or is it a noteworthy dead end? Controversial styling reigns supreme on UX The …

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2020 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT by By Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, and it’s a capable, honest and quite fun SUV. Between that and the Forester and Ascent, Subaru knows how to make an SUV. But interestingly enough, its best seller isn’t an SUV. Yet it competes with them and shows them up in many ways. Welcome to the Subaru Outback – a tall, capable All-wheel-drive wagon that offers those SUV attributes in a different package. Hey, we like different! And for 2020 the Outback’s all new, too. Let’s take a look. Familiar but tougher looks On the outside, you might have trouble distinguishing the …

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2022 Acura MDX puts on a tease ahead of its December 8th debut

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It’s no secret that Acura is preparing to take the covers off of its revamped 2022 Acura MDX. The newest MDX will represent a very interesting chapter in its history as the model evolves to truly embrace its role as the flagship model for the luxury brand (NSX where are thou? However, the one other thing that has eluded us (along with the NSX’s current status in the lineup) was a date for the MDX’s debut and the Japanese luxury brand has revealed that it will take place December 8th. Keeping up with the 2022 Acura MDX Prototype Acura also …

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Remember when Audi found its step? What happened to the 2000 Steppenwolf Concept?

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It’s not too often that automaker manages to find its figurative step when it comes to designing a concept car for the masses. But Audi managed to take things in an interesting direction when the new millennium arrived on the scene. The company that was typically known for making well buttoned luxury cars was keenly aware that not only were SUVs important, but that the very definition of what an SUV should be was also rapidly changing. Perhaps sensing that the wheels of change were grinding into motion, Audi commissioned the Steppenwolf concept car which aimed to answer what would …

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2021 Subaru Crosstrek 2.5L Limited by Ben Lewis

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It’s hard not to like the Subaru Crosstrek – it’s a great looking small crossover, based on the equally likeable Subaru Impreza and it combines a nice compact size with good off-road abilities, and most of the friendly traits that make Subaru an agreeable brand. It has been hard to love the Crosstrek, though. It’s always felt a little underpowered, and the lack of power seemed to highlight the CVT transmission in a negative light. In short, a good vehicle looking for a better engine. Well, Subie heard our wishes, and for 2021, a more powerful 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder replaces the …

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Ford returns to fabled Baja 1000 race, Bronco R prototype gets second chance at slaying the course

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Ford‘s Bronco is rapidly powering its way towards a pivotal 2021, with the model slated to go on sale nation wide this coming spring. However, before that happens, the company is out to shake a very big monkey off of its back, and has revealed that the Bronco R racing prototype will be making a second attempt at completing the treacherous Baja 1000 race. Aiming to rectify past mistakes The Bronco R’s last trip to Baja could be viewed like the build up to the first encounter between boxers Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz, with Ford generating a massive amount …

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2022 Infiniti QX55 breathes new life into brand’s lineup, features sleek infotainment system

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We won’t judge you if luxury brand Infiniti doesn’t come to mind right away when asked to name one of their models. Infiniti has been in the doldrums as of late both in sales, as well as the current state of their lineup. Our last encounter with Infiniti was several years ago when we traveled out to California to check out the QX50. Since then, not much has happened, but that has all changed, with the luxury brand finally pulling the covers off of the 2022 QX55. FX inspired attitude defines QX55 design When it came to penning the lines …

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Jeep unveils V8 powered 2021 Wrangler Rubicon 392, rewrites the off-road benchmarks

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It has been awhile since a V8 engine found its way into the Jeep Wrangler. For the past several decades, the most potent engine that you could get in a Wrangler was the venerable albeit wimpy 285 horsepower 3.6 liter V6. But we always knew that the Wrangler had a hidden potential for more power, and Jeep has finally delivered on the promise of a V8 powered factory Wrangler, with the unveiling of the Wrangler Rubicon 392. Jeep claims that it’s the perfect blend of both worlds, but is it? Here’s 4 key things to know about the fastest Wrangler …

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2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport aims to appeal to a wider spectrum of buyers, can it succeed?

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The Volkswagen Atlas is a solid three row contender in the SUV segment. But while the Atlas is a solid workhorse for growing families, the big VW is not exactly known for its athletic charm. Volkswagen aims to solve all that with the all new Atlas Cross Sport. But does the Cross Sport succeed in adding more excitement to the Atlas? Or is it a dead end? Sloping roofline and revised looks add some needed edge to Cross Sport At its core, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is pretty much what you expect it to be, which is to …

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GM unleashes all new performance parts for 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban

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The revamped 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and its bigger sibling the Suburban just recently began trickling into dealer inventory across the nation, but that’s not stopping GM Performance from preparing a lineup of performance parts for the duo that aim to not only spice up performance, but also provide higher amounts of stopping power too to help beef up their performance game. First thrusted into the spotlight by the folks at GM Authority, these new components are Limited Production Options (LPO) and they bring a number of welcome upgrades to the duo. As expected, the first of these upgrades is found …

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2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime XSE AWD

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If I say name the fastest 4-door Toyota right now, with over 300 hp and 0-60 under 6 seconds what would you say? Camry TRD? Avalon? Nope. It’s the Toyota RAV4 Prime. Wait a sec. The friendly and familiar RAV4 SUV? A performance vehicle? Yep, and then some. Toyota has been on a roll lately, and they’ve making fun to drive a big part of their new direction as a brand. Camry, Corolla, Supra, heck, even the Highlander is a lot more fun than it used to be. And where hybrids used to be just for super-efficiency, Toyota is showing …

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2020 Subaru Ascent by Ben Lewis

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What if you love your Subaru Outback but find yourself needing more room, especially a 3rd row of seats? Or if you have a 3-row SUV and always wanted a Subaru to call your own? Easy, get yourself a Subaru Ascent. We worried that the transition to such a large vehicle might dilute the Subie goodness we’ve found in the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek – even the WRX. So, we had to ask. Is the biggest Subaru still true to the cause? Subaru Design on Display Well, it certainly looks that way. If you didn’t have a reference point, you might …

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Bollinger Motors confirms patent for all new streamlined battery technology

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In a big step for the company, Bollinger Motors has revealed that it has formally filed a patent with the United States Patent and Trade Mark Office this week, which is a very promising sign for the company not only in its growth, but also in its goal towards producing all electric vehicles. The patent in question covers the firm’s production battery design, with the documents including numerous mechanical, electrical, and systems innovations centered around the battery packs that will be powering some of the company’s EV offerings including its pickup and SUV off-road models. “The heart of every EV …

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2022 Acura MDX Prototype previews a very dynamic future for venerable people hauler [Video]

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Acura had alot riding on its shoulders when it unveiled the 2022 Acura MDX Prototype. While the MDX was arguably the more family focused offering of Acura’s SUV lineup, it was also losing ground to some of its rivals in the three row luxury SUV segment. Even though the MDX Prototype is a thinly veiled concept, it does appear to show that the MDX is about to take a big step up in terms of what it can bring to customers. There’s alot to unpack here, but here are some of the key essentials that you should know about the …

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