SUVs

Volkswagen doubles down on CUVS with 2022 Taos, fills void in the process

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The SUV segment is a rapidly changing place, and when you have a void in your lineup, it can be quite noticeable. That was the predicament that Volkswagen was facing with the firm having a noticeable hole below its volume focused Tiguan SUV. With subcompact CUVs proving to be a very reliable honey hole for consumers, Volkswagen had to act quickly, and it has chosen to do so with the 2022 Volkswagen Taos. The Taos aims to bring instant success to Volkswagen, but can it fill the shoes left by the Golf?   Shrunken Tiguan wrapper creates distinctive look: The …

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Ever wondered why Ford bailed out of sedans? the company finally tells all

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Remember how the automotive industry shook when news came out that Ford was cutting virtually all of its traditional car lineup (minus Mustang?) Taurus, Fusion, Focus and Fiesta were all cosigned to the guillotine, with the company revealing that it was focusing the bulk of its resources and marketing power on SUVs, trucks and electric vehicles. Have you ever wondered why Ford chose to make the bold move it did? A new statement from a Ford executive appears to add some clarity to the subject, while also painting a very compelling and convincing picture on how it’s already helping the …

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Beefier and more capable than ever, souped up Infiniti QXploration prepares to test its rally chops

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Nissan has always had a strong presence in the annual Rebelle Rally, with the company having the distinction of being the only manufacturer to provide vehicles at the all women event. That of course, includes luxury division Infiniti who will be shipping its QXploration concept to the event to see how a model better known for being at home in mall parking lots will fare in rally racing (or perhaps going to that house in the middle of nowhere featured in Courage The Cowardly Dog. The custom SUV already has a few accomplishments under its belt prior to this trip, …

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Is it possible to lose one’s self for progress? We check out the 2020 BMW X6 xDrive40i

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When BMW first unleashed the X6 SAV onto the world, it was a game changer. Not only was it a design focused departure from its cousin the X5, but it could also perhaps be considered the ancestor to the coupe style SUVS that have since rapidly proliferated in the marketplace in the years since. But as is the case with everything up for sale, the occasional update is needed to keep the design fresh, and the finer details sharpened enough to draw in more consumers. But can the 2020 X6 still wow observers the same way it did when it …

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Acura teases fourth generation MDX with new teaser image, will debut on October 14th

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Acura has been making waves in recent years, and with the RDX and TLX appealing to young luxury buyers, the company is choosing to give its more function focused MDX some love and attention for 2021. A new teaser video released by the company shines the spotlight on some of the new design elements that will make their debut on the upcoming MDX. Released via the company’s Youtube page, the teaser focuses on the strong character lines that help create the general shape of the RDX, We also get a glimpse of the front fascia as well as the redesigned …

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2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum L4 AWD by Ben Lewis

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The Toyota Highlander has always been a solid choice in the mid-size SUV segment. By solid, we mean, well-built, good value, Toyota reliability. But ahem, nothing to get excited about. Well, until now. For 2020, there’s an all-new Highlander, and while it hasn’t lost any of the things that make a Highlander a stress-free choice, this one’s notably more passionate, from style, to driving, to features. You can now lust after a Highlander and not be locked up in the automotive looney bin. Big and Bold The first thing that hits you is the Highlander’s take-no-prisoners design. It looks bigger, …

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Infiniti QX60 Monograph concept emerges as thinly veiled preview of next gen QX60 model

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It has been awhile since we heard from the folks at Infiniti. The Japanese luxury brand first emerged on the scene several decades ago, and for awhile, it was a very compelling alternative to not only established U.S. luxury automakers, but also Japanese rivals like Lexus and Acura. However, this momentum gradually deflated, and the brand has been in a figurative holding pattern in recent years while rivals leapfrog it in technology and sales numbers. But Infiniti is ready to fight back, and has unveiled a glimpse of its future, the QX60 Monograph concept. Just don’t call it a formal …

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2020 Jeep “JLUR” Wrangler Rubicon EcoDiesel – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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After four years off, FCA brought back the 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel. This time they’ve decided to add it to the Jeep Wrangler. Enthusiasts call the newest Wrangler the JL.  If it’s the four-door version they, add a “U,” and for the Rubicon trim they add an R. Our test model was a 2020 JLUR EcoDiesel. Video Intro   Overview Arguably America’s most rugged vehicle, the newest Jeep Wrangler has been modernized without compromise to off-road ability. The Jeep brand is FCA’s top seller in the U.S., and the Wrangler is a big portion of that. In order to please a wider …

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2020 Buick Encore GX Essence FWD by Ben Lewis

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Have you ever been at a pizza place and seen something called “The Meat Lover’s Pizza”? Or a place that has “The Veggie Lover’s” sandwich? It’s called specialization – and why should food have all the fun. Introducing the all-new 2020 Buick Encore GX – we call it “The Tech Lover’s Buick. Stylish SUV Before we go any further, we need to point out that the Encore GX is not related to the previous Buick Encore, which is still available – small, fun, funky, and frankly one of our favorite small SUVs. But between the much larger Enclave and Envision …

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2020 Kia Niro PHEV EX Premium by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the 2020 Kia Sportage, and noted that Kia in a very Porsche-like manner, continuously tweaks and updates as it goes along, and like the Sportage, we find the same is true for Niro hybrid model. Since the Niro is one our favorite Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid and EV models, that’s all good news for us. Let’s take a look at the changes. Updated Looks On the outside, the Niro has received some updates to keep it looking fresh. Up front, there are new projector-type headlights and fogs, dual chevron-style LED daytime running lights, and a new diamond-pattern grille. …

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2020 Kia Sportage SX AWD by Ben Lewis

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We only somewhat jokingly called the Sportage SUV the “Korean Cayenne” for its Porsche like looks, and sporty personality. But it seems like Kia has taken that to heart, as it is continuously refining and improving the popular vehicle and making it better in every way. And it was pretty great to start with. Fresh Face The makeover for the Sportage starts with a more aggressive front and rear fascia, including new headlights with LED indicators and LED fogs, and a new front grille, bumper, air intake and skid plate. It still looks like a Sportage, but the design feels …

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2020 Cadillac XT6 Drive Review – By Matt Barnes – An Almost Excellent 3-Row Crossover

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The XT6 is a front wheel drive luxury crossover from Cadillac using the same platform as the GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave and Chevy Traverse. While the quadruplets are based on the same platform, the XT6 looks significantly different. The XT6 is more upscale and sportier than the other three. It appears nimbler and more luxurious yet retains the same 310 hp 3.6-liter V6 used in the others. Exterior When compared to its siblings, the XT6 has sharper lines, a lower body, and more chrome. The headlights are unique from all other Cadillac vehicles, but the grill, bumper, and fog lights …

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Kia Sorento: Plug-In Hybrid unveiled, but will the U.S. get a piece of the action?

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Kia first teased the idea of a PHEV variant of the Sorento when it revealed the lineup of engines that would underpin the new model back in February, with the model making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Alot has changed since then, but Kia’s plans appear to be soldiering on with its long term plans for the Sorento, with the Korean car brand unveiling the production Sorento Plug-In Hybrid. A key catch is that for the moment, we have no U.S. related information on the model, with all of what we know coming from what will be available …

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2021 Hyundai Kona: facelift teased, confirms all new N-Line model

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The hot selling Hyundai Kona is only a couple of years old, but the company still wants it to look as fresh as it can while also avoiding a mid-life crisis at the same time. With that in mind, the Korean car giant has confirmed that the Kona is going to be receiving a light nip and tuck, and has even provided a glimpse into what the 2021 model year will bring to the tiny CUV. The front fascia is still just as expressive as ever, but the full LED headlights are sharper looking than before in the upper and …

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Jeep releases new teasers for 2022 Grand Wagoneer: confirms September 3rd unveiling

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The teaser campaign surrounding the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is in full swing, and the iconic off-road brand is leaving no stone untouched when it comes to revealing key tidbits of the game changing three row SUV. This includes today’s teaser images which appear to confirm that the Grand Wagoneer will be the most luxurious Jeep model ever produced. Like the last round of images, Jeep did not give too many details to work with, but it’s very clear that the upcoming Jeep model will bring plenty of style to Jeep showrooms. The first teaser image shows off a slice …

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Comparision Battle – 2020 Mazda CX-5 Signature vs 2020 Ford Escape Titanium

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Shopping for an SUV these days can be a very difficult endeavor for many buyers. There are a wide range of models, trims, and other items all vying to try and get your hard earned dollars when it comes time to sign on the dotted line. While the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has certainly put a crimp on new vehicle sales across the board, many of the local dealerships we visited in Metro Detroit have reported steady SUV and CUV sales. We decided to compare the 2020 Mazda CX-5 Signature and the 2020 Ford Escape Titanium to see how they would …

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Jeep teases upcoming Wagoneer: with new teaser images, takes patriotic tone

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The upcoming Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer have been the subject of multiple rumors and reports ever since Jeep revealed that work was indeed progressing on them a few years ago. The models have also faced several delays in their development, but it appears that the wait is just about over with the release of two all new teaser images. While the images themselves don’t leave alot to work with, it does show that the Wagoneer will clearly be a distinctly different offering than what is currently available in Jeep showrooms. The Wagoneer lettering for example has a gold contrast …

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2020 Lexus NX 300h by Ben Lewis

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We always hear about “Best in Class”, “Class-Leading” or “Class Standard”, but what happens when you’re the only one in your class? And that’s what we have here, in its segment ,the Lexus NX 300h is the only regular hybrid in its class. Well, some manufacturers might take that as an opportunity to set the bar low – where else you going to go? – but not Lexus. Like all their products, they hold everything to a higher standard. But is it worth going to a hybrid, when there a lot of other interesting choices, including a non-hybrid Lexus NX?  …

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Maserati unveils updated Trofeo: lineup, more power than ever before

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Maserati‘s Trofeo nameplate has always symbolized the pinnacle of performance for Maserati, and the lucky model equipped with it undergoes a vivid transformation from runway queen into a track slaying king. Maserati is keen on expanding and continuing this iconic tradition and it has unveiled three new Trofeo models, the Ghibli Trofeo, Quattroporte Trofeo, and an updated version of the Levante Trofeo. But before we get into the other two bearers of the Trofeo nameplate, we might as well focus our attention on the Ghibli Trofeo which is arguably the most exciting of the trio. The model drops a V8 …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Toyota Highlander: Platinum Hybrid

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It seems that there is no shortage of capable three row SUVs to choose from these days. With the segment currently going through a massive boom time, manufacturers big and small have unleashed a whole swath of models to try and cash in on the pent up demand. The Ford Explorer, Hyundai Palisade and the Honda Pilot are just some of the popular marques out in the market place today. However, the Volkswagen Atlas Mazda CX-9 and the Subaru Ascent are eager to disrupt the established pecking order. One of the veteran offerings is the Toyota Highlander which underwent a …

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2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 – Mountain Drive Review +Video – By Matt Barnes

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The premium crossover class is very competitive and constantly growing. To play in this field, manufacturers must be at the top of their game. Mercedes has updated the GLC for 2020 with some new exterior styling bits, optimized wheels, the updated MBUX infotainment system, and more power. Exterior The GLC is very stable in appearance. It is short and low with a long wheelbase and wide track. As is common with many vehicles today, the grill is oversized and the Mercedes emblem in this grill might be the largest emblem on any vehicle I’ve seen. Because of all this, and the …

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2020 MINI Cooper S Clubman by Ben Lewis

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Is there anybody that still thinks MINI is a British company? Well, the truth is, it’s been part of BMW for a long time. In fact, many of the current BMW’s – like the X1 SUV – share MINI running gear. But that’s no reason to cry into your warm beer, as MINI is the best of both worlds. While the stylists who surround the MINI product make grand efforts to keep the bulldog-style, the fun and whimsical vibe, the knowledgeable folks at BMW continue to massage and refine the product. Ever year, there’s lots of little improvements. So, we …

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Hyundai Goes To The Darkside With 2021 Kona Night Edition:

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A trip to the dark side has proven to be very popular with buyers over the last few years, with black accents and a minor suite of upgrades translating into a sales winner for many automakers. Hyundai is the latest automaker to join this rapidly growing trend, and has formally unveiled the all new 2021 Kona Night Edition. As the name implies, this particular iteration of the Kona offers gloss black accents in areas where buyers might find standard chrome or other bright work that helps create a very distinctive look. The end result is a very dark monotone theme, …

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2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid Touring by Ben Lewis

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Honda is often times a technology leader, but in the case of the Hybrid SUV’s, it’s been a bit slow. But good news is here for those who love the CR-V and want all the goodness a Hybrid can bring – for 2020 we have the all-new CR-V Hybrid. And with Toyota turning up the heat in the segment with the excellent RAV4 Hybrid, it’s perfect timing. CR-V Hybrid Exterior – The Best Looking CR-V Ever! For 2020, all CR-V models get a makeover, including bolder front and rear styling and redesigned wheels. And like the Civic Coupe we recently …

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The Best Of Balance? – 2020 Mazda CX-30: Review

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When Mazda first began revamping their SUV lineup a few years ago, the Japanese automaker made it clear that it was keen on outdoing established rivals with a healthy blend of style and technology. This includes addressing a noticeable hole in their lineup, with the all new CX-30 crossover. But can the newest member of the Mazda family be the perfect middle ground for budget focused CUV buyers?   Mazda 3 Underpinnings Highlight Sensual Design: The CX-30 is essentially a lifted version of the Mazda3, but like the sedan and hatchback it shares its platform with, the CX-30 has a …

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Ford Unveils Trail Ready 2021 Bronco:

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When it comes to the off-road market, the benchmark for the past several decades has been the Jeep Wrangler. Blending impressive off-road capability with an impressive degree of heritage and aftermarket capability, the Wrangler has been the undisputed king of a very lucrative niche of the broader SUV market. Many have tired to challenge it over the years (including past iterations of Bronco,) but all failed to knock the Wrangler off its perch. However, Ford is confident that it has what it takes to pull the upset of the century, and it has revived the legendary Bronco nameplate to do …

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2020 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve 4WD by Ben Lewis

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Now more than ever, our vehicles have become our sanctuaries. And if you’re like us, you think, why not make my sanctuary a big, luxurious, comfy and powerful one? Allow us to introduce the perfect place to hang out – the 2020 Nissan Armada. Armada Exterior –Big, Bold, Style One thing we like about Nissan is that they don’t just do the same vehicle in different sizes. A Rogue is not a small Pathfinder, an Altima is not just a mid-size Maxima. Everything has its own vibe. And that’s especially true with the Armada. All-new in 2018, the Armada hasn’t …

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2021 Ford Bronco: Looks To The Past In New Teaser Videos

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The 2021 Ford Bronco is only a few weeks from its debut, but Ford is ramping up the campaign surrounding the reborn off-roader in an attempt to not only build up precious buzz, but also to try and establish the groundwork for a dedicated community of Bronco enthusiasts that will help the brand grow for years to come. This is highlighted by an all new shadowy teaser image that shows all three members of the Bronco family. While the darkness does obscure the finer details, it does confirm that the standard Bronco will not only have removable doors and panels, …

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Ford To Partner With Disney For July 13th Unveiling of 2021 Ford Bronco:

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The 2021 Ford Bronco is shaping up to be one of the biggest automotive events on the planet, not only for 2020, but perhaps the decade when all is said and done. Despite the best efforts of digital leakers, Ford is still pulling out all the stops for the debut of the revived off-roader which is scheduled to take place on July 13th.   Like other automakers, Ford will be live streaming the event on that day, and we will have a link to that here on Car-Revs-Daily. But what if your a buyer that is not computer savvy, or …

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Dodge Brings Three Rows To Hellcat Party With 2021 Durango Hellcat:

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Ever wonder what would happen if the Dodge Durango received the 6.2 liter supercharged Hellcat V8? Enthusiasts have always wondered that as well, and for a long time, the Durango stood out as the black sheep offering, with the rest of FCAs big car and SUV lineup all getting Hellcat powered variants. But at last, the wait is finally over for the Durango Hellcat and what a beast it is. The exterior styling of the Durango surprisingly plays it safe, with Dodge designers opting for a mild refresh instead of an all out rethink. The bulk of this tweaking is …

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2020 Toyota Land Cruiser – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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What can be said about the 200 series Land Cruiser that hasn’t already been said? It’s been around since 2008 and has only had a few meaningful changes since then. For 2020, there is an all new Heritage Edition that removes the rear seats and center armrest cooler and adds a roof rack, BBS forged wheels, and special badges. Other than that, little has changed from the 2019 model year. For our review, Toyota sent us a base model Land Cruiser for a week. Keep in mind the base model Land Cruiser starts at over $85,000 and there is only …

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Ford Bronco Debut Delayed Again, Rescheduled For July 13th

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Ford has been having a very rough ride when it comes to formally unveiling the 2021 Bronco. The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly affected all aspects of life, and we sympathize with Ford on its continuing efforts to unveil the SUV. With some light emerging at the end of the tunnel, the Bronco was supposed to finally make its debut on July 9th, but Ford has revealed that it was forced to formally push the Bronco’s debut forward a few more days. The delay this time stems from the July 9th date happening to fall on the same date as O.J. …

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Ford Bronco To Debut July 9th, Will Also Introduce “Built Wild” Slogan

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Let’s face it folks, 2020 has been quite a roller coaster in terms of global events. The COVID-19 pandemic has rapidly emerged as a potent global event, and a consequence of this crisis is the way that it has turned the plans of many corporations completely upside down. This included Ford and the upcoming 2021 Bronco. The Bronco was originally supposed to debut earlier this year, but recent events forced the company to scrap those plans. But despite this, the Bronco is still one of the hottest debuts of the year, and Ford has revealed that the model will finally …

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2020 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro – Off-Road Review – By Matt Barnes

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Like nearly all other body-on-frame vehicles Toyota makes, the Sequoia is getting old. The current generation came out for the 2008 model year. Of course, there have been updates here and there over time, but there hasn’t been a major redesign in 12 years. For 2020, Toyota has introduced the TRD Pro trim level to the Sequoia. Like all other TRD Pro vehicles, the Sequoia has upgraded suspension components and a few unique color and trim items. Exterior No matter how you look at it, the Sequoia is a beast. Nearly everything about it is big. The front greets you …

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Car-Revs-Daily.com’s Most Popular YouTube Video! 2021 Cadillac Escalade Walkaround

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What’s the most-viewed video over on youtube.com/carrevsdaily ? Is it the drive reviews that take hours of prep, planning and editing?  Nope. It is a humble and quick walkaround of the 2021 Escalade in the sun at Amelia Island Concours. The appeal of this big beast is universal and shooting vid right before the covid quarantines gave it plenty of time to be top of page on Escalade search results. Take a look below and check out the gallery too.  It looks slightly strange in person to these eyes, but is clearly a massive upgrade inside and out. The new …

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Ford Calls Out Wrangler, Exec Says That 2021 Bronco Will Be “Superior” To Iconic Jeep Model

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With the debut of the 2021 Ford Bronco fast approaching, Ford is wasting no time drawing the battle lines in its plan to crush the Jeep Wrangler and usurp it from its off-road sales throne. The latest example of this is a tweet from Michael Wayland who released an alleged quote from Ford Chief Operating Officer Jim Farley which indicates that Ford is not backing down from its long term goals for the revived off-roader.   Ford COO @jimfarley98 says the Bronco is “a much superior product” than @Jeep Wrangler https://t.co/arRjWY38yB — Michael Wayland (@MikeWayland) June 10, 2020 According to …

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2021 Ford Bronco To Be Unveiled In July, Misses Spring Deadline

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The 2021 Ford Bronco has certainly faced a formidable obstacle course in its quest towards debuting for the world to see. Its original debut was canned due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, but Ford revealed at the time that the Bronco would make its debut in spring. But while the Bronco has missed that particular deadline, it appears that the Bronco’s journey to the global stage is nearing its conclusion, with the company revealing that it will make its debut in July. The date change was first discovered on the landing page for the Bronco’s mini-site which previously …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Buick Enclave Avenir – By Carl Malek

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Buick is in a very interesting state of flux. Once known for having a vibrant car lineup, the brand is in the middle of a rapid transformation into a CUV and SUV focused brand. While new entries like the Encore GX and the refreshed Envision are helping Buick explore new niches in the utility segment, ultimately, the weight of the brand’s sales success rests with the Buick Enclave. This full-size hauler has the size and the luxury needed to be the perfect family truckster, with the model being a sales force for Buick since it first made its appearance back …

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2020 Land Rover Defender Deliveries Begin In The U.S. Nationwide Rollout To Be Completed In Mid-Summer

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It has been a long time since we heard from the 2020 Land Rover Defender. The reborn off-roader originally made its debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show back in September of 2019. But other than making its rounds on the auto show circuit as well as visiting select Land Rover showrooms in the U.S. (our local dealer had one visit earlier this year) U.S. buyers have been waiting a very long time to get their hands on one. But Land Rover has revealed that the wait is finally over, with the first units beginning to arrive state side.   The …

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2021 Jeep Compass Teased Ahead Of June 4th Virtual Unveiling

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With all the attention that the Jeep Gladiator, Wrangler, and even the upcoming Grand Wagoneer are getting these days, it can be easy to forget that behind the scenes, the iconic off-road focused brand is preparing updates for some of its other models. One of these is apparently, the Jeep Compass, with the brand revealing that the 2021 Compass will make its virtual debut on June 4th.   While the lone teaser that the company released is an extreme close up of the front grille, it’s apparent that some form of refresh is in store for the Compass (contrary to …

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Range Rover VELAR SV600 By Manhart Performance

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Germany has such a powerful set of OEM automakers that it is easy to forget the country also has a thriving and world-leading car customization industry.  Manhart Performance is part of this crew taking the hottest vehicles from Europe and the world and making them even faster, louder and sexier than stock. In typical German fashion, these customs are typically executed with a finesse and holistic approach that is much more thorough than simple part-by-part upgrades.  In US tuner terms, they go right to stage two or stage three right off the bat. This new Velar SV600 is a perfect …

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Hyundai Teases Next Generation Santa Fe With New Teaser Image, Hints At Sharper Front Facia

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It’s not often that an automaker completely flips the script when it comes to designing a mid-cycle refresh for an automobile. Usually, the company in question would focus on lightly updating the model, but retain its core elements for a bit longer. Hyundai however is doing just the opposite with the Hyundai Santa Fe, and promises that customers can expect more than just a typical refresh for the next generation Santa Fe. A key change here is that Hyundai will be replacing the current platform with an all new one. This rarely happens in the automotive industry, and is a …

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2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited X 4×4 by Ben Lewis

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These days, we’ve been thinking a lot about “bug out” vehicles. Maybe it’s too much bingeing on the Walking Dead, but hey when the Zombies come a-munching, what you gonna do? We say hop in your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee and head for the hills! Grand Cherokee exterior – familiar and friendly While the idea of a Zombie Apocalypse is really not that new, neither is the Grand Cherokee. But that’s not a bad thing. Jeep says it’s the most rewarded SUV ever, and that’s believable. And the Jeep GC continues to be the same tasteful, handsome vehicle it has …

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Jeep Designer Reveals That Wrangler Is Similar In Spirit To Original Defender

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The latest iteration of the Land Rover Defender is a very radical overhaul from what we have seen in past iterations. Once known for being a rugged billy goat of an SUV that was designed to cross scorching hot deserts and ford even the wildest of rivers, the new one has taken a much more serious focus on being more livable for consumers. This includes sacrificing some of its rugged attributes and being a softer offering to help it appeal to a wider range of customers. But don’t expect this same transformation to occur with the Jeep Wrangler according to …

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Toyota Revives Venza Nameplate For Hybrid CUV, Promises To Bring High Fashion To Green Vehicle Ranks

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The Toyota Venza has returned after a several year absence. But while the original Venza was a segment blurring entry that straddled the line between a traditional car and a SUV before it was unceremoniously discontinued in 2015, this chapter of Venza aims to push its SUV lineage more into the spotlight, while also doubling down on its green credentials at the same time.   Sharpness and Aggression Define Venza Styling: The original Venza’s styling could be best defined as a bland mixture of styling elements, with the overall look having about as much consistency and excitement as a brand …

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2020 Fiat 500x Sport by Ben Lewis

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Are you a fan of Monty Python? (OK, we may be dating ourselves here..) Well, they used to have a segment with a newsman-like person at a desk saying, “And now for something completely different.” And you know, they could have been talking about the Fiat 500x. Fiat 500x Exterior – Thinking out of The Box It starts with expressive looks. While it shares the running gear with the Jeep Renegade, it won’t be confused with that, or any other small SUV. Last year, the 500x got a facelift, with new front and rear fascia that trade in a little …

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2021 Cadillac Escalade To feature Super Cruise, $2500 Option Expands Availability Of Revolutionary Technology

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Cadillac’s innovative Super Cruise technology has had a very rocky launch since it was first formally unveiled in the CT6 sedan a few years ago. Back then, Cadillac promised to roll out the technology across the bulk of its lineup, but those plans largely never materialized, and the system remained a CT6 exclusive. But that’s all changing now, with the 2021 Escalade being the next recipient of the technology according to a report from the Cadillac Society forum. According to the site’s report, Cadillac plans to make Super Cruise optional on all but the base model Escalade for the 2021 …

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2021 Cadillac Escalade Fuel Economy Numbers Revealed, Freeway Mileage Takes Hit For New Model Year

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Following hot on the heels of its bold debut in Los Angeles earlier this year, EPA figures for the 2021 Cadillac Escalade have emerged, and it appears that the news is not good, with the numbers revealing that there has been little to no improvement for the 6.2 liter gasoline fueled base engine especially in freeway mileage.   While figures for the optional 3.0 liter diesel six cylinder were not released as of this writing, the writing is on the wall for V8 equipped Escalades with rear wheel drive, with city figures improving by only 1 mpg at 15, while …

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Hyundai Palisade Gains Uplevel Calligraphy and VIP Trims In Korea, Hopes For U.S. Arrival Uncertain

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The Hyundai Palisade and its Kia badged cousin the Telluride are currently the two best three-row SUVs that money can buy. Both of them offer an impressive suite of standard equipment, styling, and a driving experience that could easily be mistaken for something that is worth twice as much. But while the Telluride has remained firmly entrenched in its role as a mainstream offering, the already luxurious Palisade has gained two new trim levels that up the game both in luxury and exclusivity. Dubbed the Calligraphy and VIP, these two trim levels are meant to show the world what would …

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Cadillac Releases Lone Image Of Bigger Escalade ESV Model, Bigger and More Spacious Than Ever

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The 2021 Cadillac Escalade has managed to turn its fair share of heads since it made its debut in Los Angeles earlier this year. Boasting impressive amounts of style, luxury, and capability this Slade has it all covered. However, the bigger ESV variant has remained camera shy, with the only indicator of its existence being when it was unceremoniously revealed via the brand’s online configurator. Cadillac has remedied this, by unveiling one lone image of the upcoming ESV variant in an announcement earlier today.   The exterior styling is a virtual mirror image of the standard Escalade, with all the …

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2020 Kia Telluride – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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Kia has created a winner with the all-new three-row Telluride. It has won many industry awards for best in class. Is it actually as wonderful as it seems? Outside If you have seen any of Kia’s advertising for the Telluride, you will have likely seen it wading through water or plowing through mud. Kia is pushing the Telluride as a capable, go anywhere family hauler. To push this idea even further, Kia has given the exterior design of the Telluride a boxy off-roader look. Kia has done an excellent job of separating the Telluride from the Palisade, which shares the …

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2021 Kia Seltos S FWD by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Hyundai Kona, and found it to be a stylish, sporty and well-equipped runabout. So, it’s easy to think that the all-new 2021 Kia Seltos, which shares most of the powertrain is its brother from another mother, but that’s not the case – it’s a completely different vehicle with a different purpose. Poised between Kia’s funky Soul and more traditional Sportage, it’s a small, rugged adventurer ready to tackle tough conditions. Kia Seltos Exterior – Bold and Eye Catching Kia likes to say that the Seltos has the same design theme as the big, bold Telluride SUV. …

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First Drive Review – 2020 Mercedes Benz GLC63 AMG [Video]

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In a world where the very notion of shoving a supercar derived V8 into a compact CUV would typically cause the politically correct to throw their hands up in protest, we are glad that there are a few outliers in the industry that are willing to throw a wrench into this thinking. One of them is Mercedes-Benz and the AMG performance sub-brand which has been on a roll over the last few years thanks to its impressive lineup of performance focused offerings. Our first taste was the flagship G63 AMG SUV which was out to show the world that the …

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2020 BMW X6 40i – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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Sports Car in a Crossover’s Clothes: the New BMX X6 German vehicle manufacturers have recently been flooding the US market with a variety of crossovers; Audi offers six, Mercedes offers eight, and BMW offers seven. For BMW, they offer their SUVs as wagons and coupes. The X1 is the wagon and X2 the coupe riding on the same platforms. This goes for the X3 and X4, and the X5 and X6. The only wagon without a coupe is the new X7 as there is no X8 available yet. BMW was kind enough to give us a week with an X6 …

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2021 Cadillac Escalade Pricing Leaked, Slated To Start at $76,195

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Cadillac first took the veil off the 2021 Escalade a few months ago when the luxury brand unveiled the model at an event in Los Angeles California. We were on the ground during that time, but despite our best efforts, Cadillac executives remained silent on the kind of pricing that we could see when the Escalade eventually makes its way to the marketplace. However, a new report has possibly leaked the final pricing ladder ahead of the big Cadillac’s formal launch. The report which was unveiled by the forum Cadillac Society sheds some new light on pricing for the Escalade, …

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Twin Test: 2020 Hyundai Kona Turbo FWD – Cheaper, But Much Less Grip

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In the first part of this twin test we crowned the Kona Turbo AWD a best-of-2020 winner and clearly the superior Kona Turbo for performance enthusiasts.  This segment takes a look at what the differences are via a drive review and a new photoset of the 2020 Kona 1.6T front-wheel-drive. The upcoming Kona N performance model makes perfect sense to anyone who has driven the turbo version of these cars.  (The base Kona trims have significantly worse more affordable mechanicals beyond the engine so the boosted upgrade is very worthwhile.) But once you have sprung for the turbo, should you …

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2020 Hyundai Venue Road Test Review by Ben Lewis

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2020 Hyundai Venue SEL Review Here’s a term you don’t here that much anymore. Basic transportation. You probably remember them, usually a small car, no frills, no thrills, just get me to work (or school) and back. Thrifty and reliable. Well, those don’t really exist anymore. Part of that is good – comprehensive safety is becoming standard equipment on just about all vehicles. And with almost everyone using a smartphone, connectivity is important. And oh yeah, might as well make it a small SUV/Crossover – versatility and practicality won’t take a back seat anymore. So that’s opened the door for …

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2020 Infiniti QX80 Edition 30 – Off-Road Test Review By Matt Barnes

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Like Lexus and Acura, Infiniti has been around for quite a while now and they are no longer new players in the game. What does thirty years of experience building luxury vehicles stack up in the new Infiniti QX80? To celebrate 30 years of Infiniti for 2020, Infiniti is offering an Edition 30 Package throughout its lineup. In the case of the QX80 Luxe we received for review, the package includes 22-inch forged dark aluminum alloy wheels, black mesh grill, dark chrome exterior trim, black mirror caps, additional badges, graphite headliner, and 1st row illuminated EDITION 30 kick plates. When …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Lexus GX 460 Luxury – By Carl Malek

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The landscape has certainly changed in the SUV landscape over the past 30 years. Once known for being rugged functional workhorses that preferred to let their capability and off-road credentials do the talking, the priorities have flipped completely on their heads for buyers with comfort and technology taking center stage. But amid standout entries like the Lincoln Aviator, Acura MDX, and the Cadillac XT6, there are still some old school centric entries remaining that aim to win buyers over with a taste of what SUVs used to be defined by. One of these is the Lexus GX 460 which is …

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2020 Hyundai Kona Ultimate FWD by Ben Lewis

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Small SUV’s are a big thing, and they keep on getting bigger. And they’re not just aiming for small SUV and crossover buyers, they’re going after small car buyers too. The new Mazda CX30 for example, is more a tall hatch than anything else. The Hyundai Kona could fit into that mold as well. It definitely has SUV styling cues, but the size certainly wouldn’t turn off buyers coming from small cars. And as a bonus, this is one of the most fun small SUV’s to drive. Spending a week in a Kona is a much fun as…. well, a …

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Bollinger Announces All New E-Chassis, Promises Wide Flexibility For Commercial Buyers

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Bollinger Motors has big plans for the 2021 model year. We had the chance to have a glimpse at this future when we witnessed the unveiling of the B1 SUV as well as the B2 SUV in Ferndale last year. The company also revealed pricing for the duo shortly after, but while the B1 and B2 will serve as a figurative spearhead into the EV truck and utility markets, the company needed to shore up its chassis technology in order to take advantage of more markets. The company has resolved this, and has formally unveiled its all new E-Chassis which …

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2020 Chevrolet Blazer Premier AWD – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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Chevy released the Blazer one year ago and has already done a complete renaming of it’s trim levels for the 2020 model along with a few other trim and package updates. Chevy added a new mid level engine option with the 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder. Trim level names have changed from L, 2.5L, 3.6L cloth, 3.6L leather, RS, and Premier to L, LT, 2LT, 3LT, RS, and Premier. They have also added an auto start stop override button, three new exterior colors and a new redline edition. For our testing Chevy sent us a top-of-the-line 2020 Blazer Premier AWD …

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2021 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport Revealed In Massive Leak

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Today has not been very kind to Ford Motor Company. While the company was able to snuff out a smaller leak a week ago that showed off select elements of the Bronco’s side profile and rear fascia, things got turned up a notch when both the Bronco and its smaller cousin the Bronco Sport were leaked in full to the world. With the cat now essentially out of the bag at this point, we take a dive into both of these models, and see how Ford is betting big on the revival of the iconic Ford Bronco. The latest leak …

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2020 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD by Ben Lewis

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If you’ve been thinking about a 3-row SUV, but you’re not sure, you’re not alone. It seems like the automakers can’t make up their minds either. A few years ago, we saw a bunch of new models feature available third row seats. And while they initially took a bite out of the minivan segment, a lot of them have gone away, or made them low-volume models. Mazda’s CX-9 is one of those. But we wouldn’t weep about limited availability of a 3rd row, because frankly, the largest Mazda SUV is a dynamite vehicle. It’s a Looker We’ve seen a nice …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR – By Carl Malek

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Jaguar is a company that is finally embracing the winds of change. While its counterpart Land Rover was always known as the SUV side of the coin, Jaguar was perfectly content with being the option for people that wanted sporty luxury cars that also infused high degrees of style and design in their flanks. While this worked well in prior decades, it also caused Jaguar to be far behind the curve when SUV and CUV demand boomed, leaving the brand to suffer from dwindling sales numbers. But the British luxury car maker chose to fight fire with fire, and recently …

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2020 Lexus NX300 F Sport – Review By Matt Barnes

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Lexus tries to keep a model as long as possible before they make any major updates. This holds true for the NX which is largely unchanged since its debut in 2014. So what, if anything, is new for 2020? Outside there are a few color changes with Silver Lining Metallic and Autumn Shimmer no longer available and Cadmium Orange being added. Inside the infotainment system now has Android Auto (for all NXs built after October 1st 2019) which joins Apple CarPlay that became available last year. There is an optional Mark Levinson audio system. The steering wheel now includes power …

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2021 Chevrolet Equinox Slinks Into Chicago With New Updates

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Chevrolet might not have had any conferences for this year’s auto show, but that did not stop the bowtie brigade from bringing one new model to the 2020 Chicago Auto Show, with the brand bringing the updated 2021 Chevrolet Equinox, which aims to bring more polish and attitude to Chevrolet’s bread and butter SUV offering. While the world got its first look at the new model via the leaked image of a Chinese spec model, it should not be too much of a surprise to see that the U.S. version is largely identical to that variant. At first glance, the …

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Jeep JPP20 Debuts New Mopar Accessories, Signals New Direction For Jeep Performance [Video]

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Are you a Jeep Wrangler buyer that loves to customize your Wrangler with accessories, but you want to avoid the long build times associated with buying all the parts you need individually? If this sounds like you, Jeep and Mopar have the perfect solution for you the JPP20 Wrangler. Available only for the 2020 model year, the JPP is your one and only ticket to getting a fully customized Wrangler with minimal fuss and without the trouble of building it yourself. Dubbed the JPP20 “Jeep Performance Parts” the model is a visual example of what the recently minted Jeep Performance …

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Cadillac Targets Navigator With Tech Laden 2021 Escalade [Video]

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When the revamped Lincoln Navigator appeared a few years ago, It sent reverberations through the full-size luxury SUV market. Once the proverbial and literal punching bag of the segment, the big Lincoln’s newfound mojo caused it to rise above many of its foreign rivals, and even threaten the sales superiority enjoyed by its domestic rival the Cadillac Escalade. With the Navigator posing a revived threat to the Escalades benchmark status, Cadillac engineers knew they had to do something drastic to help stave off this challenge, and have unveiled the fruits of their labor, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade.   Controversial Styling …

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2020 Cadillac XT6 Premium AWD Platinum Package – Review & Road Test Video

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It’s been very frustrating to watch Cadillac suffer this past decade as their sedans seem bolted to showroom floors while all the other luxury brands have launched dozens of hot-selling three-row crossovers.  Finally — finally! — Cadillac can compete in the car-based SUV market with a rockstar entry that combines amazing style, Euro handling, a lux cabin and the perfect size/value equation. The XT6, ladies and gentleman, is that vehicle.  Sliding in with base prices of around $50k means this machine is a cool $25k less than the shortie Escalade and a whole lot easier to drive, own and garage …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Jeep Wrangler Sahara – By Carl Malek

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When it comes to bearing the weight of the world on ones shoulders, few can match the burden carried by the legendary Jeep Wrangler. Sharing roots with the Willys Jeep that played a key role in turning the tide for the Allied Forces during World War II, the Wrangler has made a name for itself for offering buyers amazing off-road capability in a package that has still retained much of its core values over the years, while also resisting the urge to outright abandon its functional design cues. But with a new decade now upon us, the iconic Wrangler has …

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2019 Honda Passport Elite – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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Returning after a 16-year hiatus, the Honda Passport is a large, 2-row CUV that slots between the Pilot and CRV. The Passport is built on the same platform as the Pilot and Ridgeline and uses the same power train, but is six inches shorter, one inch taller with an extra inch of ground clearance. Exterior All Passports come with a blacked-out grill and LED lights, but the Elite we tested had glossy trim throughout and even gloss black wheels. Other trims get a matte finish with polished aluminum or grey wheels. One thing that is immediately apparent is that the …

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2021 GMC Yukon Ups The Refinement Scale, Brings New Technology To Buyers

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When the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe were first unveiled back in December, we wondered how long it would be before its GMC twins the GMC Yukon and the Yukon XL would make their appearance. Following a wave of speculation as well as lingering sightings of testers all over Metro Detroit, GMC took the veil off the 2021 GMC Yukon which brings more refinement, technology, and flair to buyers. Unlike the Suburban and Tahoe which featured elements of the controversial design language seen in the Silverado, the Yukon’s Sierra based design allows it to borrow cues from that model, and …

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2019 Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport – Review By Matt Barnes

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The only major update for to the Toyota Sequoia 2019 is the all-new TRD Sport trim level. In addition, many safety features are now standard that were optional in the past. This includes blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking and rear cross traffic alert. While the platform is over a decade old, it is still relevant. Toyota has one of the best reputations for reliability and the 5.7 V8 is still on par with its large SUV rivals for horsepower and torque. Review Video     Outside The Sequoia is very large and has a significant presence, yet it still somewhat …

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2020 Subaru Outback Limited – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

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If there’s a company that epitomizes the “You Don’t Mess with Success” mantra, it’s Subaru. You rarely get a revolutionary, all-new, blow-your-mind model from the automaker. And we’re fine with that. Everything’s so good already, they prefer to perfect what they got. Introducing the all-new 2020 Outback! You didn’t notice? Well, it does look very familiar to anyone who has loved the previous five generations of Subie’s tall wagon. The size is about the same – 1.4” longer and 0.6 wider than the previous model. The lines look a bit crisper, with a large hexagonal grille, LED fogs and front …

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2021 Chevrolet Suburban Rumored To Get Z71 Trim Report:

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Chevrolet just pulled the veil off of the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban a few weeks ago, and the extensive revisions that the duo has received for the 2021 model year are very extensive, including the introduction of independent rear suspension to the lineup for the first time ever. But the Z71 trim was arguably the one Tahoe trim level that received our attention the most, with the rugged variant gaining a number of off-road themed touches to set it apart from its more road focused siblings. Chevrolet was silent on whether the trim level would find its way to …

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2020 Hyundai Palisade SEL FWD Review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the all-new Kia Telluride, and came away mightily impressed. So, we couldn’t wait to try its sibling, the Hyundai Palisade. We were surprised in a couple ways. They’re very different, and yet both deserve your consideration. And Hyundai’s flagship SUV even has a surprising accent. (Not to be confused with the Hyundai Accent) Swedish Fish Many times we’ve pointed out that Kia design feels very European, thanks in part to putting Peter Schreyer the head of Audi design in charge. Hyundai has never felt that way, until now. Well, except for the front. Here we have a …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Hyundai Nexo Blue – By Carl Malek

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Hyundai is on a roll when it comes to hydrogen. A key player in a green segment that is still attached to the hip of EV and PHEV vehicles. Hyundai still sees tremendous potential in hydrogen as a viable alternative fuel source. The company has had a long running program in California, and even recently unveiled a hydrogen powered semi truck concept. But, the Korean car giant still needed a viable platform to test its hydrogen technology, and it has unleashed the latest chapter in its green exploits, the 2019 Hyundai Nexo, but is the Nexo the next key chapter …

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2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 Busts The Trails, Has Sequoia TRD Pro In Its Sights

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When we formally covered the unveiling of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe, we liked how its revamped interior and functionality helped the duo renain a top tier threat in the full-size utility segment. However, the Z71 grade Tahoe represents a very unique opprotunity for Chevrolet to not only have broader appeal with off-road focused buyers, but also help outshine other off-road offerings. While the Tahoe has had various Z71 packages in the past, the treatment for 2021 goes beyond being a mere marketing ploy, and is perhaps the greatest effort we have seen in truly catching sales in this …

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2021 Chevrolet Tahoe & Suburban Breathe New Life Into Iconic GM Nameplate, Bring New Technologies To Consumers

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Big SUVS are big business for General Motors with the Chevrolet Tahoe and the bigger Suburban accounting for a large chunk of all SUVS that are currently sold in the U.S. However with rivals such as the Ford Expedition, Toyota Highlander, and the Volkswagen Atlas besting the duo in several categories including fuel economy, Chevrolet designers knew that they had to completely revamp and rethink the way they introduced the Tahoe and Suburban to a new wave of SUV buyers. The brand thinks it has succeeded in this mission with the unveiling of the newly revamped 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG – By Carl Malek

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With the SUV and CUV segments adding so many new models into their respective ranks, it can be easy to forget that there are a few iconic nameplates sitting at various points in the segment. If your a rapper, celebrity, third world leader, or even the pope, few entries can match the extensive rap sheet wielded by the Mercedes G-Class. First conceived in 1972 at the suggestion of the King of Iran, the G-Class initially started life as a military vehicle, with the Argentinian army interestingly being the first power to use it in 1981. The first civilian version appeared …

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2020 Acura RDX SH-AWD A-SPEC – Review by Ben Lewis

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Acura has been on the move lately. We’ve been continuously impressed with vehicles like the fun and agile ILX, the luxurious and swift RLX, and the MDX Hybrid, which was a tech tour de force. But of all the nice products, the best may be the all-new RDX. The RDX has had an interesting life. The original model was ahead of its time, coming in   2007 with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and a very sporty chassis. For the second gen, the 2013 model featured a V6 engine, and was much more of a scaled down MDX. A very nice mainstream …

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Audi E-Tron Sportback Debuts Smoother Shape, Novel Headlight Technology

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When the Audi E-Tron first made its debut, the traditional SUV shape as well as its utility focused ergonomics helped make the EV a hit with consumers. However, we were always curious about what would happen if Audi designers were allowed to let loose on the E-Tron, and it appears Audi reps shared our view, and have followed through with the official unveiling of the all new Audi E-Tron Sportback. The styling of the Audi E-Tron Sportback is handsome, but to many observers it might not be readily recognizable as an all electric vehicle. Just like its more conventional looking …

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Hyundai Venue Pricing Revealed, Shatters Pricing Cliches With $17,250 Base Price

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When Hyundai first introduced the 2020 Hyundai Venue, its boxy shape, as well as its impressive suite of standard equipment immediately caught our eye, but with 2019 rapidly coming to a close, we still did not hear from Hyundai on the final pricing for this tiny CUV. The Korean car giant has thankfully delivered on this lone omission, and revealed that the Venue has a starting MSRP of $17,250. That does not include the $1,095 destination fee which helps push the price to $18,345. This pricing is somewhat of a game changer in the CUV segment, with Hyundai claiming that …

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Rolls Royce Brings Cullinan To The Dark Side With All New Black Badge Model

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The Rolls Royce Culllinan is already an imposing SUV to share the road with thanks to its elegant styling, as well as the very high levels of equipment that buyers can use to coddle themselves in world class luxury. We got a taste of this ourselves this summer, but for buyers looking for more intimidation and exclusivity from their luxury SUV purchase, Rolls Royce has come full circle, and has unveiled the all new Cullinan Black Badge. Like other Black Badge models, the Cullinan Black Badge is designed to push the big Roller into a higher plane of performance. But …

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2019 BMW X4 M40i Review and Drive Video – A Love-Bug Passion Play

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There are some cars you just click with right away as a reviewer, and the rest of the week with that ride just makes you love it more and more. I sometimes refer to these as “first-block” cars.  Vehicles that enchant you moments after putting them in Drive and rolling away for the very first time.  These are machines that sell themselves better than any salesperson ever could.  For me, the X4 M40i is one of those cars and is actually one of my top-three SUV drives of 2019.  (Behind Levante Trofeo and X7 M50i). X4 is an amazing machine …

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Ford Unveils Bronco R Baja Racer, Showcases Clues For Production Bronco [Video]

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Ford is still very keen on keeping the wraps firmly tightened around the production Ford Bronco, but the company has given eager fans of the iconic nameplate something extra to chew on with the unveiling of the Bronco R Baja racer. Designed to tackle the upcoming Baja 1000 desert race, the revived model will also help celebrate the 50th anniversary of Rob Hall’s Baja 1000 victory in a first gen Bronco based entry. As another nod to the past, Hall’s granddaughter Shelby Hall will drive it during portions of the grueling race. Before all that happens though, Ford will take …

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2019 VW Tiguan SEL Premium 4Motion Review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the massive 2019 Toyota Sequoia, and we felt that it had earned the motto (ok, we read it on a popcorn box) Big is More. In its class the jumbo Toy makes the most of its size. But it’s not the only class where size matters. Take for example the 2019 VW Tiguan. The previous gen was one of our favorite small SUV’s – it felt like you were getting some GTI DNA mixed in with crossover practicality. When time came around for VW to update the Tig, it decided to aim directly for the U.S. market. …

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Bollinger Motors Announces Pricing, Performance Details For B1 SUV And B2 Pickup

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When Bollinger Motors recently introduced the production version of the B1 SUV and the all new B2 pickup, we were left with new questions especially in regards to final range and pricing figures for the duo. The Ferndale, Michigan based company has ended the mystery, and has unveiled new details about the long term plans for the B1 and B2. For starters, we finally know how much the B1 and B2 will cost to own, with the company revealing that both models will start at $125,000. This eye popping figure is far off the under $100,000 estimate the company initially …

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2019 Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport Review by Ben Lewis

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We used to go to a movie theater that had catchy phrases on the popcorn containers. On the largest size was the especially memorable: BIG IS MORE. Well, there’s no arguing that in popcorn. Or full-size SUV’s. Which brings us to the 2019 Toyota Sequoia. If an SUV ever deserved that motto on the side, this would be it. But there’s plenty to talk about outside of the big and tall dimensions. Big is Beautiful The 2019 Sequoia is a good-looking beast. Unlike the new RAV4 (that we loved) that’s dressed up to look rugged, the big Toy bowls you …

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2020 Hyundai Palisade – Road Test Review + POV Video in All Seats

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Our first outing the the Palisade was up at the beautiful Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC and the surrounding mountains.  As you can read and watch, we hauled our butts up a mountain then did some off-roading in a mad caravan of Palisades.  We looked like a villain’s entourage with so many black luxury SUVs in convoy form! This follow-up was much more down to earth.  When the villains go home for the weekend, perhaps, and take on normal parenting and lifestyle duties. This involved a boring commute in traffic, jaunts around town running errands and lots of everyday life …

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2019 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition – Review By Matt Barnes

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Nissan gave us the opportunity to drive the 2019 Pathfinder SL 4wd Rock Creek Edition. The Pathfinder name has been used by Nissan for almost 60 years, and this newest iteration delivers. The Rock Creek Edition adds a ton of the most commonly popular features at a discounted price and makes for a beautiful color scheme. Outside There’s something about the color scheme and Midnight Pine Metallic paint that says “take me on an adventure”, but Nissan doesn’t add any additional off-road capability with the Rock Creek Edition. What it adds is a plethora of dark and rugged themed features, …

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2019 Nissan Armada – On and Off-Road Review – By Matt Barnes

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For 2019, the Armada only gets additional standard features that were options last year. Things like rear door alert, intelligent cruise control, automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning are now standard across the Armada lineup. Outside Being the largest SUV in Nissan’s lineup, the Armada has presence. It is slightly larger than a Tahoe but smaller than an Expedition, putting it right in the middle of its class. While some other vehicles are starting to look the same as everything else in their class, the Armada has standout looks. Recently, Nissan has done an excellent job in creating beautiful …

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2019 Toyota RAV4 Limited – Review By Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the 2019 RAV4 Hybrid, and came away hugely impressed. It’s a total rethink of the RAV4, and it’s bigger, better, more handsome. A winner. But in an interesting twist, Toyota made the Hybrid the performance model, with 219 horsepower, and in our XSE tester a performance tuned suspension. We’re wondering if we had been sucked in by the top of the line hybrid power version. So now, we’re back testing a well-equipped but non-hybrid model – the kind most people will end up buying to see if the standard model is as good. Looks Good Since we …

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Bollinger Motors Unveils B1 & B2 Prototypes, Finalizes Production For Both [Video]

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When we last heard from Bollinger Motors, it was back in 2017 when they unveiled an early stage prototype of the B1 SUV. Back then, the company was based in New York, and the crude prototype served as a glimpse into the rugged EV that CEO Robert Bollinger and his fledgling company wanted to unleash to the masses. Several years of work later, the company has moved to a bigger building in Ferndale, Michigan and has unveiled the next step of its march to production, with the unveiling of the production spec B1 SUV and the all new B2 EV …

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2019 Nissan Murano SL AWD – Road Test Review + Video – By Matt Barnes

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Nissan has done a good job of making their SUV’s feel higher class than they have in the past. Often, Nissan’s are thought of as budget Toyotas, with great reliability but very basic. However, in the past few years, Nissan has moved into luxury interiors with comfortable seating and plenty of standard safety features. While bare bones base models are still available for price conscious customers, it’s Nissan’s middle and upper trims that really bring out the comfort and convenience features. Outside Our test model was an AWD SL trim with the premium Sunset Drift paint color. It is a …

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2020 Buick Enclave ST – Road Test Review + Drive Video

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The new-for-2020 Enclave ST looks amazing!  It is shocking how much the body-color grille edge and new gloss-black inner mesh changes the look of this jumbo crossover. Nowhere near as shocking as the resounding praise you’re about the read, though!  Believe me, this car will make anyone who drives or rides inside into a Buick fan. This coming from the kid who truly believed the 1990s Skylark was the most hideous vehicle ever made, and had disgusted reactions to every element of LeSabre and Century. This is a new era though, and this Buick is the best ever. ST stands …

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2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited AWD – First Drive Review Video + Mega Gallery

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Lots of Palisade love this summer! You can really tell how seriously Hyundai is taking this full-size SUV launch by the media events scheduled on its behalf. Instead of one major media drive with an ultra exclusive invite list, Hyundai did a Palisade road show and had at least five of them across the country.  Presentations from the product teams and great roads to try out this three-row biggie’s capabilities. The one we attended was in Asheville North Carolina, a short jump inland from CRD HQ in Charleston, SC.  But years in the ‘lowcountry’ made me forget all about hills …

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Honda Unveils 2020 CRV Hybrid, Brings All-Wheel Drive To Hybrid Lineup For First Time Ever

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The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid already made its debut in Europe earlier this year, but with the U.S. version of the CR-V due for an update. Honda has unveiled our version of the 2020 CR-V Hybrid, which will be the third hybrid model that Honda will have for sale alongside the Accord and Insight sedans, as well as the first light utility on sale here to benefit from hybrid technology.   Tweaked Exterior And Interior Styling Defines Light Refresh: Honda knows that when it comes to sales, the 2019 CR-V is a very potent winning formula for the Japanese auto …

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