Full Photo Galleries

Road Test Review – 2022 Toyota Venza Limited – A Reboot That Embraces The Green Side Of Life

by

When We last saw the Toyota Venza it was a much different offering. Designed to be a comfortable crossover for empty nesters, the Venza’s sales reflected this with that version performing well below Toyota’s expectations of 75,000 to 100,000 sales per year. However, going full circle can sometimes be a good thing and Toyota is aiming to achieve just that with the 2022 Venza. This iteration of the Venza appears to have alot of the core attributes down, but are they all enough to finally make it a sales winner? Venza Styling Goes In Radical But More Aerodynamic Direction The …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor – Is It Still The King Of The Mountain?

by

The off-road pickup segment has seen a renewed resurgence in recent years both in demand and in performance, with many of these trail-ready offerings offering more performance than ever before. The truck that’s often credited with launching this revolution is the Ford F-150 Raptor. Originally created in borderline secrecy deep in the bowels of the Ford Motor Company, the Raptor has rapidly become one of the strongest sellers in the F-150 family and has rapidly emerged as a potent benchmark for all that came after it. Ford gave the model some updates for the 2021 model year, but with the …

Keep reading

First Drive Review – 2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1 Pickup – Supercharging GM’s Ultium Ambitions

by

The pages of history are quickly turning at General Motors. It wasn’t too long ago that the idea of a pure EV offering from GM would’ve been seen as laughable never mind one with the Hummer badge dubbed the Edition 1. In those days, Hummer was known for two things, delivering the goods on off-road capability, and laughably low fuel economy. But the times have changed, and GM has brought back the Hummer moniker (as a sub-brand this time) to not only spearhead its assault on the EV market but also storm the pickup segment as the world’s first “supertruck.” …

Keep reading

Toyota Helps Corolla Go Super Saiyan With All New 2023 GR Corolla, 300 hp and Track Ready Tech Are Standard

by

With many automakers reducing their involvement in hatchback models to cater to a growing hunger for crossover and utility vehicle sales, it’s still good to see that a few are still tinkering with the iconic hot hatch. Toyota is one such company and has unveiled the all-new 2023 GR Corolla which aims to bring international market performance to American buyers.   GR Corolla Embraces Track Ready Motif When the GR Corolla makes its way to dealerships later this year, it will be offered in two grades (Core and the launch Exclusive Circuit Edition.) Core models represent the budget focused option …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 – Insanity Unleashed

by

Jeep has had a very complicated relationship when it comes to giving its iconic Wrangler a V8 engine. While aftermarket companies have done it for years, Jeep resisted the urge of giving its Wrangler an injection of V8-powered fun. However, the emergence of the Ford Bronco has at long last finally forced Stellantis’s hand, and the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 is the long-awaited fruit of this dream. But is it a case of you should never meet your heroes? Or is it the perfect definition of insanity?   A Familiar Wrapper Hides The Essentials With all the magic happening under …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Series III – Living Large And Hunting For European Luxury Rivals

by

It has been a long time since Jeep has fielded a competitor in the full-size SUV ranks. With the ill-fated Jeep Commander best being left as a forgotten historical dead end, one has to go all the way back to the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer which were once key cogs in the long-departed American Motors Corporation, as well as Chrysler’s for a brief period after the company, completed its acquisition of AMC with the last ones being built in the early 1990s. But Stellantis is hoping that a new generation of full-size SUV buyers will be able to breathe some …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Grand Cherokee Two Row Laredo – A Value Packed Offering For Families

by

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is aiming to reshape the way that many Jeep buyers experience and embrace the SUV. While the spotlight is shining brightly on higher trim models like the Limited and Summit as well as the green-minded 4xe model, it can be easy to forget that the bulk of sales are focused on mainstream trims like the Laredo model which serve as value-focused gateways into the Grand Cherokee family. We wanted to find out what SUV buyers will get for their money and whether the Laredo is still the go-to entry-focused model.   Laredo Still Embodies Jeep …

Keep reading

Ford Aims For The Budget Off-Roader With All New F-150 Rattler

by

The Ford F-150 has always managed to be a proverbial swiss army knife when it comes to offering buyers all kinds of ways to do truck stuff. That’s especially true if you’re an off-roader with the dune slaying F-150 Raptor and the trail-ready Tremor models delivering the goods. However, inflation is pushing up prices for a wide variety of goods and one of the ripple effects is that some buyers might have a tighter wallet to work with. Ford has listened and has unveiled a budget-focused alternative, the 2023 F-150 Rattler.   Off-Road Fun For The XL Crowd Unlike its …

Keep reading

First Drive – 2023 Mazda CX-50 – Filling A Void In Mazda’s Growing SUV Family

by

When Mazda first confirmed that it was expanding its SUV lineup, we were curious to see precisely what Mazda had in mind. The CX-30 was the first in what Mazda called the “CX” family of utilities, with the model not only replacing the axed CX-3 but also proving that the model was more than the sum of its Mazda 3 sourced parts. Naturally, the company is thinking bigger this time around and has revealed the second member of the gap-filling family, the 2023 CX-50. But does it successfully follow up on the solid praise the CX-30 has received? Or is …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road – Light Updates Keep This Solider Ahead Of The Pack

by

The Toyota Tacoma has long been an enduring benchmark in the mid-size pickup ranks thanks to its value, capability, and quality. Its grip on the throne has been unchallenged. Still, these days even the king of mid-size pickups is facing dissent from a resurgent pool of entries like the radically updated Nissan Frontier, an expanding Ford Ranger family, and the updated Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Can the Toyota Tacoma maintain its hold on the throne?   Lightly Updated Styling Retains Core Tacoma DNA The Tacoma’s exterior styling was updated back in 2020. As a result, the changes in this …

Keep reading

Aston Martin Unveils Third Generation Vantage V12, Last Of The Breed

by

The Aston Martin V12 Vantage has always been the pinnacle of performance for the Vantage coupe, a fire-breathing demon in a sea of V8-powered imps. The last two generations of V12 Vantage pushed the envelope of performance despite being hobbled by the limitations of an aging platform and a laughably bad semi-automated manual transmission in the case of the Vantage S. Aston Martin knows that the days of the V12 are numbered and has revealed the third generation V12 Vantage which will be the end of the line for the legendary twelve-cylinder.   V12 Vantage Is Leaner, Meaner, And Better …

Keep reading

GMC Announces All-New Hummer Documentary, Will Air On History Channel

by

The GMC Hummer EV is just now entering production, but it turns out that GMC had a few more surprises to share and that included the filming of a 60-minute documentary which documents the entire story of the Hummer EV and even sheds light on details that few in the general public knew about during the Hummer’s road from being a design sketch to becoming a full-fledged electrified pickup. Documentary Sheds Light On Every Hummer Milestone The documentary was shot in a partnership between GMC and A+E networks the company that’s better known for being the corporate face of the …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing – Super Sedan Spreads Its Wings For Maximum Performance

by

Cadillac is about to fully double down on its commitment to the electric vehicle market. The luxury brand plans to eventually ditch gasoline vehicles in place of an all-electric future. Before that happens, though, the luxury brand is throwing one final celebration of performance with the Blackwing lineup of performance models (and the Escalade-V to a lesser extent.) One of these is the 2022 CT4-V Blackwing which strives to have one last dance with rivals like the BMW M3. But does it finally have the mustard to overcome the benchmark of the sport sedan segment?   Blackwing Exterior Styling Is …

Keep reading

Acura Pulls The Veil Off 2023 Integra, Spicier Type S Model Is Coming

by

When Acura first confirmed that it was bringing back the 2023 Integra, it immediately brought back memories of moves like the Fast & The Furious and the massive car customization craze that it helped jumpstart alongside the Honda Civic. The 2023 Acura Integra aims to catch lightning in a bottle once again, and it seeks to appeal to a new generation of young buyers.   Showcar Styling Defines Integra As with other recent Acura models, the Integra’s styling mirrors the prototype closely, with the production version retaining the sporty lines that defined that model. The large graphics and the colored …

Keep reading

Volkswagen I.D. Buzz Aims To Generate Plenty Of Buzz In EV Wars

by

It has been over five years since Volkswagen teased the I.D. Buzz EV van. Alot has changed since then both in the industry as well as the state of affairs in regards to recent current events. But the wait is finally over with Volkswagen formally unveiling the production version of the all-electric van. There are some cool things buried in the Buzz’s skin as well as a few caveats (we’ll touch on those shortly) but here’s what makes the Buzz so special.   Cheery Retro Styling Makes I.D. Buzz A Playful Future Minded EV Volkswagen claimed that they wanted to …

Keep reading

2023 Ram ProMaster Brings Sharpened Styling And New Features To Work Van Segment

by

The Ram ProMaster has been a reliable workhorse for commercial buyers ever since it made its debut back in 2009. However, it was no secret that the Fiat-based van was rapidly aging and it was also getting schooled in sales by the hot-selling Ford Transit. Ram is out to change these fortunes and has unveiled the all-new 2023 ProMaster. Beauty Still In The Eye Of The Beholder The exterior styling of the ProMaster was always a love it or hate it affair but Ram stylists went to work trying to add more polish to the van’s lines for 2o23. The …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross – Updates Can’t Mask Middling Performance

by

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a CUV that’s always had some form of an identity crisis. The Eclipse Cross has the exterior styling needed for it to be one of the boldest CUV entries in the market, but suffered from inconsistent presentation, especially with its performance and interior. Mitsubishi has made some updates to help give it a better presentation while also fixing some of the flaws that hobbled older models. But have the changes made the Eclipse Cross better?   A Nip and Tuck Adds Cohesion To Exterior Styling Mitsubishi stylists had alot on their plate when they were …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Hyundai Veloster N DCT – Better Seats And Extra Amounts Of Fun

by

When Hyundai first released the Veloster N hot hatch several years ago, it seemed the Korean car giant finally hit all the right notes when it came to making a fun performance car. The Veloster N packed an impressive amount of power, technology, and value into its flanks. However, the interior resembled a pieced together Fischer Price kit and it was a manual-only offering. Hyundai is not only committed to enhancing the Veloster N’s sales success but also learn from past mistakes with the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N which adds a DCT and a few welcome enhancements into an already …

Keep reading

Ford Unveils 2023 Ranger Raptor, Confirms It’s Heading To The U.S. Market

by

Ford knows that SUVs and pickups are the keys to its future, and the company has used the past few years to greatly enhance its profits from these two segments. That includes performance niches with the F-150 Raptor and the recently unveiled Bronco Raptor. But the Ranger Raptor has so far proven to be elusive, with this third dino being an international market-only exclusive. Enthusiasts have clamored for the U.S. version for years and Ford has even subtly hinted that it was considering it, but the company has transformed sly replies into action with the 2023 Ranger Raptor.   Exterior …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line – Sporty Styling Hides Conservative Character

by

The SUV wars have forced many automakers to rethink and change the way they approach certain segments of the SUV market. That has included Volkswagen which has shifted gears in its attempts to woo customers. It wasn’t too long ago that buyers could purchase a standard Golf hatchback, but the surging popularity of models like the Tiguan and the recently launched Volkswagen Taos forced the Golf to be a Europe only offering with the performance infused GTI and R models being the two sole remaining members of its species. The Tiguan in particular has become a key part of Volkswagen’s …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Genesis G70 3.3T Launch Edition – Beefier And More Luxurious Than Ever

by

The Genesis G70 has always been an oddity in the luxury sport sedan ranks. when it first arrived on the scene, it was a spunky underdog that combined Korean build quality with a level of performance that was missing in other Genesis products. While the manual-equipped version had a transmission that was woefully inadequate for the job, the real moneymaker in the room was the eight-speed automatic which proved to be a potent combination when paired with the right driver. With such a strong start, the second-generation G70 had a very tough act to follow, but did Genesis do a …

Keep reading

Overlanders Rejoice, Ford Reveals All New Bronco Everglades, Pushes Bronco In New Direction

by

The dust may still be settling on Ford’s recent unveiling of the delightfully insane Bronco Raptor, but the Dearborn-based auto giant is not letting its foot off the gas pedal when it comes to new Bronco models. This time around, the company is shifting its focus towards the overlanding side of the off-road community with the all-new Bronco Everglades which is designed to maximize its potential in this category.   Bronco Everglades Puts On Its Diving Equipment The exterior styling of the Bronco Everglades retains the retro-inspired look that has come to define other Bronco models, but a prominent thing …

Keep reading

First Look – 2022 Ducati DesertX – Ducati Revives Its Off-Road Heritage For A New Era

by

Ducati has long been an icon in on-pavement racing and performance, with models like the Streetfighter and Paganale, Monster, and the SuperSport contributing to the brand’s legendary performance reputation. However, some buyers might not realize that Ducati also has a robust off-road pedigree, with the Italian bike maker racking up accolades in off-road races. But if you were to visit a showroom, this side of the story may not seem evident at first glance. At the moment, the Multistrada is the only trail-focused bike in the arsenal, but it has to be multiple things at once, and as a result, …

Keep reading

Maserati Celebrates Racing History With Trio Of MC Edition Models

by

Maserati may make the bulk of its sales dollars in the luxury car market these days, but did you know that the Italian luxury brand also has had its fair share of success out on the track? If you didn’t it’s understandable with much of the company’s recent marketing focusing more on the comfort side of the coin versus its racing pedigree. Maserati is out to change that though and has unveiled a new crop of MC Edition models to remind the world of its racing pedigree.   A Trio Of MC Editions For Any Occassion For now, the Maserati …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 McLaren GT – Supercar Quirks Blunt GT Character

by

When one looks at a McLaren offering, chances are good that track-ready performance and Ferrari slaying styling will immediately leap out into mind. While the British supercar maker has primarily delivered the goods, for the most part, the firm also knows that it needs to expand its reach to appeal to a broader range of buyers. The recently unveiled Artura was McLaren’s first leap into the green vehicle market, and for GT buyers, the company has unleashed the all-new McLaren GT, but is it finally the perfect balance of supercar daring and GT elegance?   Exterior Styling Looks Slick The …

Keep reading

Aston Martin Unveils *707 hp DBX707, Mirrors Hellcat In Raw V8 Power

by

When we had our opportunity to go behind the wheel of the Aston Martin DBX SUV last year, we were smitten with the 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged V8, and the 541 hp on hand made our tester an enjoyable family hauler to throw around the corners. While this amount of power is already very potent, the British sports car maker knows that a select few crave even more power. The company has answered their demands with the all-new DBX707.   Hellcat Matching Horsepower For The Jet Set When you look over what makes the DBX707 special, a prominent one is the …

Keep reading

2023 Toyota Sequoia Rebuilt From The Ground Up, Hybrid Engine And New Technology Sharpen Its Focus

by

When Toyota axed the Land Cruiser from the U.S. market, we had questions about how the company was going to keep some of those fans loyal to the brand while also giving the ancient Sequoia full-size SUV some much-needed updates to help it stay in the fight against full-size SUV benchmarks. It appears that the company is attacking the situation from both angles with the introduction of the all-new 2023 Toyota Sequoia.   Bigger, Badder, More Civilized Sequoia The Toyota Sequoia was in a very dire situation when Toyota chose to revamp it with the outgoing model being in production …

Keep reading

Ford Builds Custom Pope Francis Edition Bronco, Will Cross The Block At Barrett Jackson

by

The dust may just be settling on the recent unveiling of the 2022 Bronco Raptor but Ford is still working on other Bronco variants. With the Raptor slaying trails, the company chose to create a custom Pope Francis Edition Bronco to not only celebrate a slice of Bronco history but also benefit a good cause too.   A Papal Flavored Bronco The Bronco and the highest office of the catholic church became intertwined in 1979 when Pope John Paul II embarked on a trip to the U.S. which was the first such trek for a sitting pope. He toured many …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Mazda MX-30 – Mazda Enters The EV Wars, Misses The Memo On Range

by

When Mazda crafted the MX-30 EV CUV, they wanted to achieve three key things with it. They wanted it to be a potent spearhead for their EV projects, a stylish family commuter, and a testbed to learn from. We recently had a chance to spend time with the MX-30, and while it does have some potential in a few categories, Mazda missed the mark in one essential category, range.   Eye Catching Suit Of Clothes Draws Plenty Of Attention Before we get into some of the other things that make the MX-30 stand out from rivals, we might as well …

Keep reading

Ultra Luxury SUV Mega Comparision Round 2 – 2021 Aston Martin DBX vs 2021 Bentley Bentayga

by

When we last checked in on our contenders in our inaugural Ultra Luxury SUV Mega Comparision test we saw the 2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 beat the 2021 BMW Alpina XB7 to advance into the semi-final round of our contest. With that out of the way it’s time to move into round 2 to see which SUV will join the Maybach in a final duel to decide which one will square off against the Rolls Royce Cullinan Black Badge. This time around it will be the 2021 Aston Martin DBX vs the 2021 Bentley Bentayga in a classic case of plucky underdog …

Keep reading

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor vs 2022 Bronco Raptor – Which One Is Right For Your Garage?

by

The 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor is helping Ford expand the Raptor experience to SUV buyers while also adding some profits to Ford’s bottom line. But with the Ranger Raptor still not being offered in the U.S. we wanted to find out if the Bronco Raptor is a better purchase than the F-150 Raptor pickup, especially among certain customer groups.   Different Segments But Both Have The Same Mission At first glance, the idea of such a comparison may seem absurd on the surface with the F-150 firmly in the full-size pickup segment and the Bronco clearly in the SUV segment. …

Keep reading

2022 Ford Bronco Raptor Brings Trailblazing Performance To The Outdoors, Expands Raptor Family

by

The rugged Ford Bronco has been helping Ford reach new levels of sales success thanks to its combination of retro style and rugged capability. But while the Bronco is already a formidable beast in stock form, some buyers wondered what would happen if the Bronco received a healthy infusion of Raptor DNA? Ford is always up for a challenge and has unveiled the answer, the all-new 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor    Trailblazing Raptor Exterior Flexes Its Dino DNA The first major change that Bronco fans will notice is that while the core styling of the Bronco Raptor retains the basic …

Keep reading

2022 Cadillac Escalade V Brings Performance To SUV Buyers, Makes Us Wait For More Details

by

When Cadillac revealed that the 2022 Escalade V was thundering into the luxury SUV segment, we had plenty of questions about this luxury-lined boxing glove. Cadillac has heard our cries and has (kinda) unveiled the 2022 Escalade V.   Reworked Styling Our Best View Yet At Sporty Escalade V A big catch with today’s unveiling is that Cadillac prefers to keep the performance hardware a secret until this spring. But while we are forced to pick up our spilled milk and dropped slices of Kings Cake and wait longer, the luxury brand did deliver a consolation prize, a detailed look …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 MINI Cooper JCW Convertible – Dropping The Top On Compromised Performance

by

The iconic MINI Cooper has always managed to find a way to win over even the most skeptical of skeptics thanks to its combination of quirky good looks and deceptive amounts of driving fun. JCW models enhance this feeling with their mixture of style and inner substance. But can the JCW lineup still stand out as a top-tier performance bargain? Or has it lost some of its luster?   JCW Exterior Styling Still Shines To find out, MINI allowed us to spend some quality time with the JCW convertible, which serves as the droptop member of the JCW family. The …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport – The Ultimate Tool For Cyclists?

by

When it came to making a more athletic-looking crossover, Volkswagen seemingly followed the proven formula with the Atlas Cross Sport. Chopping the roof off and transforming the blocky Atlas into a sportier offering by honing it into a coupe-like shape proved to be a popular move, especially with SUV buyers. We wanted to see how it fared as an adventure-minded vehicle and embarked on a series of adventure-themed challenges, including some tailored towards cyclists. How did it manage in the end?   Exterior Styling Has Adventure Baked Into Its DNA While the exterior styling of our bright red tester will …

Keep reading

Cadillac InnerSpace Concept Previews Luxury Filled Autonomus Future

by

It wasn’t too long ago that roadways in the U.S. were once home to the personal luxury coupe. Having their heyday in the 70s and 80s these models packed loads of luxury into a typically sleek (there were a few design misses in those days) package that happened to have two doors and sporty driving manners. These original status symbols faded away in the 1990s, but the all-new Cadillac InnerSpace concept not only revives the idea in a spiritual way but also brings autonomous driving into the mix too.   InnerSpace Concept Is Sleek and Elegant Styling Statement A key …

Keep reading

Chevrolet Unveils Electrified Silverado EV Pickup, Act Two Brings Ultium To Bow Tie Brigade

by

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV has finally arrived with General Motors unveiling the truck at a satellite event at the Fox Theater in Detroit. The Silverado is the proverbial Act Two of GM’s EV crusade and will join other Ultium powered models like the Hummer EV, Cadillac Lyriq, and the GMC Sierra Denali EV pickup.   Silverado EV A Ghost By Another Name When GM rolled the Silverado EV on stage, we were convinced that we were seeing a ghost from our past with the exterior styling looking like a rebooted Chevrolet Avalanche. Part of this resemblance is due to …

Keep reading

Stellantis Officially Unveils Airflow Concept, Promises New Future For Chrysler

by

It has been a long time since we heard anything new from the Chrysler brand. The comatose brand teased the Airflow concept when Stellantis launched its massive EV day event. But we haven’t seen much of it since, and Chrysler’s moribund sales continue to torment the company like a ball and chain. Stellantis hopes to shake off the cobwebs with the Airflow concept, which made its official debut at CES.   Airflow Points To New Future For Chrysler  The appearance of the Airflow concept points to a green future for Chrysler and is Stellantis’s latest example of its renewed commitment …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Cullinan Black And Bright Editions Pay Homage To Moscow, Display Wild Colors

by

Rolls Royce is never a stranger whne it comes to producing special edition versions of its models, and we have seen the British ultra-luxury automaker embark on a number of diffrent themes over the years. This time, Rolls Royce has chosen to pay tribute to the night skies of Moscow, Russia with the all new Black and Bright Collection Cullinan.   Russia Is Key Market For Rolls Royce While the city that was once the cradle of communisim and the Cold War might not seem like a key market for the company at first glance, modern Russia has become a …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Volvo S90 Recharge T8 Inscription – Suave Green Filled Sophistication In Sedan Form

by

With Volvo‘s reputation so entrenched in vehicle safety, it can be easy to forget that the Swedish luxury carmaker is also trying to build a name for itself in the green vehicle market. The Recharge series is an attempt to introduce customers to electrification gradually, and we enjoyed our last exposure to the Recharge when we had a chance to drive the XC90 Recharge. But with the XC90 sharing a platform with the S90 sedan, it was only a matter of time before it too received the electrification treatment. But will it deliver the same positive vibes that the XC90 …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Toyota 4Runner Venture Edition – Not Quite TRD Grade But An Interesting Detour

by

It has been over a decade since the current generation Toyota 4Runner made its debut. The spunky 4Runner has always been a potent sales force for Toyota, and not only has it greatly benefitted from the recent surge in SUV demand, but it has also even managed to blunt encroachment by EV offerings. But it’s no secret that the 4Runner is also aging and that it’s up against a fresher crop of rivals. Can it still be a new face, or is it time for it to slink off to retirement?   Unchanged 4Runner Canvas Flaunts Its Wrinkles With Pride …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC – A35 AMG Leaves Our Shores With A Bang

by

Mercedes-Benz and their AMG sub-brand are on a quest to lure in more customers thanks in part to a revamped model lineup and some new thinking in the way they promote their models. Unfortunately, part of this new thinking involves some shuffling in the lineup with Mercedes axing the A35 AMG from our shores in the process of writing this review. What will we miss out on with the model gone from our shores?   Spunky Character Defines A35 Formula For starters, we’ll no longer get to see the A35’s design-focused personality. The standard A-Class already has some impressive design …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Lexus RC F Fuji Edition – Track Potential Soured By Flaws

by

It’s not often that a track-focused limited edition model visits the office, but we always look forward to learning more about it. That was precisely the case when the 2021 Lexus RC F Fuji Edition came to visit. But while the slick carbon fiber visuals, burbly V8, and elegant interior made an excellent first impression, it ended up falling just short of being the right mix of track performance and street capability.   An Artist Known By A New Name If the introductory visual presentation looks familiar, it’s because the newly renamed Fuji Edition was once known as the RC …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL – Bigger, Better, Is It Finally Worth It?

by

When we last saw the Mitsubishi Outlander, it was a few years ago; it reflected the dire shape that Mitsubishi was in at the time. The company suffered from declining sales and the lingering effects of a fuel economy scandal that revealed that it falsified fuel economy ratings for several of its models. The resulting fallout saw the company enter an alliance with Nissan, which helped it avoid complete collapse. However, it also helped the company revamp its model lineup, and the first to benefit from the part sharing was the all-new 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander. The Outlander was once considered …

Keep reading

Ultra Luxury SUV Mega Comparision Round 1 – 2021 Alpina XB7 vs 2021 Mercedes-Maybach GLS600

by

Ever wondered which ultra-luxury SUV would reign supreme in an all-out comparison battle? Typically we would use this time of the year to reflect on 2021 and give you our picks for the best and worst cars of the year. But with the Michigan office receiving a bountiful supply of ultra-luxury SUVs to review, we decided to do something unique. Over the next few days, we will be doing a three-part comparison challenge. The rules are simple, each of our four contenders (Aston Martin DBX, Bentley Bentayga, Alpina XB7, and The Mercedes-Maybach GLS600) will go head to head in comparison …

Keep reading

2022 MINI Cooper Hardtop 2 Door Review by Ben Lewis

by

Porsche used to have an ad campaign that said, “There is no substitute”. But when you look at a lot of the company’s latest SUV’s and the like, well…there are plenty of substitutes. No, we think if you want something really unique – and somewhat affordable – you look at the MINI. We were especially excited to drive the base model, 3-door hatchback. For 2022, the MINIs have gotten a new look and some added features to keep things fresh, and we like the idea of getting into the brand’s most affordable model. Let’s Motor! (Ok, that’s their ad campaign). …

Keep reading

Morgan Shows Off First Completed Plus 8 GTR, Will Only Build Nine Models

by

It wasn’t too long ago that Morgan revealed that it was reviving the Plus 8 GTR using leftover components including several vehicle chassis that were found years after the original Plus 8 ended its production run. Unfortunately, at the time Morgan kept silent on the key details surrounding this repurposed model, but the British sports car maker has confirmed the final production number and even unveiled the first completed GTR in a set of new images.  Morgan Shows Off Flexible Customization Options Before we get into the actual production numbers, we might as well take a moment to talk about …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Nissan Titan PRO-4X – A Legit Alternative To Established Truck Brands?

by

The 2021 Nissan Titan has emerged as a very interesting alternative to rivals like the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150, and the Ram 1500. However, you might not have the opportunity to realize that at first glance, which is thanks in part to the Titan consistently being on the short end of the advertising stick and being behind the domestic big three in a few categories. But that’s not stopping Nissan, with the Japanese auto giant making minor tweaks to the Titan for the new model year. But are they enough to help finally launch the Titan into the limelight?   …

Keep reading

2022 Ford Bronco Raptor Goes For Muddy Stroll In New Video

by

When we last saw the upcoming Ford Bronco Raptor, Ford reps released a few still images of the Raptor chilling at an undisclosed off-road track. But while we welcomed the minimal amount of camouflage, there’s no substitute for raw video footage of this beefed-up Bronco slogging its way through the muck. Thankfully, Ford (via Bronco Nation) has delivered the goods and has now released a teaser video that offers a dynamic glimpse into some of the Bronco Raptor’s capabilities.   Turbocharging Will Highlight Trail Adventures The nearly three-minute video helps shine a spotlight on some of the Bronco Raptor’s finer …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Toyota Avalon TRD – The Last Word In Avalon Performance?

by

When you think of the soon to be axed 2021 Toyota Avalon, chances are that you don’t necessarily think of it as a performance-focused offering. Part of that was due to how Toyota sold the model for years, with the company preferring to highlight its long list of comfort and entry-level luxury features. The Avalon is the latest victim of the U.S. market’s recent push towards SUV and CUV models. Still, before it goes away, Toyota decided to create an Avalon that could be a passable machine for weekend track work thanks to the addition of TRD goodies. But is …

Keep reading

Aston Martin Teases Vantage V12, Is It The Final Swan Song For The Twelve-Cylinder?

by

Ever since the current generation Aston Martin Vantage made its way into dealerships a few years ago, rumors have swirled about whether it will once again receive a V12 engine. Aston Martin denied the rumors at first claiming that it wouldn’t fit (we didn’t believe them) and it appears that our suspicions were proven correct, with the British sports car maker revealing that it will indeed be putting a V12 into the new Vantage, but it appears that it will be the last time the Vantage will be paired with it.   Cryptic Teaser Video Points To Swan Song The …

Keep reading

Bentley Continental GT Mulliner Blackline Embraces Noir Vibes, Expands Customization

by

The Bentley Continental GT and GT Convertible are still a very luxurious way to celebrate the finer things of life, especially when equipped with the Mulliner Package. But what if you’re a discerning buyer that wants to blend all of this world-class performance and luxury with the noir styling that can only come from sinister black accents. The British luxury carmaker thinks it has found a perfect balance with the all-new Mulliner Blackline edition.   Noir Is In Style Like other blackout packages that we have seen from other automakers, this one takes the existing chrome pieces and replaces them …

Keep reading

2022 Cadillac Lyriq Is Moving Ahead Of Schedule, Brand Releases New Test Video

by

The Cadillac Lyriq may not get quite as much of the EV spotlight as the GMC Hummer EV pickup and SUV lineup, but the electrified Cadillac will still play a prominent role in the brand’s plans to bring the fight to a growing pool of luxury EV rivals. Cadillac recently gave us the opportunity to have some brief seat time in a late-stage Lyriq prototype last summer, and we came away impressed with some of its interior features and the Ultium battery technology. It has been a while since we have heard any new Lyriq news, but the brand has …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Santa Fe Hybrid Limited (AWD) – A Good Hybrid Family Option?

by

If you were to ask a passerby what company is best known for hybrid SUVs? The chances are good that most respondents will say Toyota and typically leave others like Hyundai in the back of their minds. While Hyundai has made great strides in enhancing its green-vehicle presence with models like the Ioniq hybrid lineup, their SUVs have been late to the party when it comes to hybrid technology. But the firm is aiming to change that and has done so in many ways, including models like the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Limited. But does an infusion of hybrid …

Keep reading

GMC Hummer EV Pickup Gets 329 Miles Of Range, Rolls Out In December

by

The GMC Hummer EV is arguably one of the most hotly-anticipated EV offerings of 2023. But other than sightings of various prototypes and an initial virtual unveiling that GMC did last year, we were left wondering about some of the more essential items, including formal range between charges. Thankfully, GMC Vice President Duncan Aldred helped shed some new light on the matter during a conference call with assembled media earlier today.   Hummer EV Slated To Get 329 Miles Of Range An essential slice of information that came out of today’s phone call is that the Hummer EV can achieve …

Keep reading

Mullen Five EV SUV

Mullen Unveils Mullen Five EV CUV, 325 Mile Range And 3.2 0 to 60 Time Could Create Potent Combination

by

Amid all the debuts that occurred at the 2021 L.A. Auto Show, There are still some eager upstart firms seeking to make a name for themselves in the broader electric vehicle segment. One of these firms is Mullen, with the Southern California company using the 2021 L.A. Auto Show to introduce the all-new Mullen Five EV crossover.   Big Numbers And Value Pricing, Can They Pull It Off? Like a few other newcomers in the EV segment, Mullen is playing the tried and true tune of promising big performance that can be had at a value price. In this case, …

Keep reading

Toyota Shows Off U.S. Bound 2023 bZ4X EV, Will Be First Of New Beyond Zero Model Family

by

Toyota is banking big on its all-new “Beyond Zero” EV vehicles which will eventually play a prominent role in the company’s green vehicle business. For now, we finally get to see what U.S. customers can come to expect with the U.S. version of the Toyota bZ4x.   Third Time’s The Charm For bZ4X Unlike other new models which use an auto show to make their grand entrance, this is actually the third time that we have seen the bZ4x with this U.S. model being preceded by the original concept as well as its Japanese cousin which will incorporate a unique …

Keep reading

2023 Nissan Ariya To Have $47,950 Base MSRP, Nissan To Release Other Aryia Flavors Later

by

When it comes to the Nissan Ariya EV, it may seem like the journey from concept to production reality has been one filled with many twists and turns (as well as a few COVID-19 related potholes along the way.) At last, the journey is now over, with Nissan not only revealing final U.S. pricing for the Ariya but also opening up reservations for the new model too.   Nissan Following GM Playbook In Regards To Ariya Ordering Look at the Ariya’s launch plans, and it appears that Nissan is borrowing a page or two from GM’s approach to things. GM …

Keep reading

2022 Nissan Rogue Packs Turbo Power, Adds Updates For New Model Year

by

The Nissan Rogue recently received a radical refresh for the 2021 model year that saw many aspects of the popular SUV benefit from some much-welcomed attention. But while the bulk of the SUV won praise, the carryover 2.5 liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder had about as much oomph as a bag of moldy cheese and was not a Rouge strong suit. Nissan is out to change that though introducing an all-new turbocharged model into the Rogue lineup.   Smaller Is Indeed Better At first glance, it might be hard to see where Nissan is going here with the new 1.5-liter three-cylinder …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Volvo XC90 T8 E-AWD Inscription – The Next Step In Volvo’s Green Future

by

When it comes to large full-size luxury SUVs, few can hold a candle to the Volvo XC90. Despite debuting a few years ago, the XC90 is still one of the freshest luxury SUVs you can buy today and the perfect complement to the brand’s other models. But what would happen if you took some of the core essentials that made the SUV a hit with buyers and infused it with state-of-the-art electrification technology? That’s what we sought to find out when we recently spent some time with the Volvo XC90 T8 E-AWD Inscription.   Clean XC90 Exterior Styling Hides Electrified …

Keep reading

2023 Mazda CX-50 Marks Key Step For Company, Brings Standard All-Wheel Drive And Will Incorporate Hybrid Variant

by

When Mazda announced that it was going to double down on the utility market, we were intrigued. The Japanese auto giant was already in the midst of a shift towards utilities. Still, it had a lot of ground to make up in the face of rivals that already had a sizable headstart in prepping for the strong demand in utility models. One of the cogs of this broader sales machine is the CX series, and Mazda has now given us our first glimpse of what one would look like with the unveiling of the all-new 2023 Mazda CX-50.   CX-50 …

Keep reading

Aston Martin DBX Debuts Straight Six Engine, Will Be Chinese Exclusive

by

When we last drove the Aston Martin DBX, we fell in love with the delightful noises that emanated from its twin-turbocharged V8 and the way it managed to blur the line between a sports car and a sports utility vehicle when it came to going through the motions. However, we were curious to see how the DBX would accommodate smaller engines especially considering the company’s strong partnership with Mercedes-Benz. The world got a glimpse of this future today with the all-new DBX straight-six model.   Fewer Cylinders Means More DBX Fuel Economy Before we get into the details surrounding this …

Keep reading

Ford Pays Tribute To Mustang Icon With 2022 GT500 Heritage Edition, Adds Special Editions For Other Models

by

The Ford Mustang is entering 2022 with a subtle splash of updates, with the Blue Oval going all-in on special edition models to lure in more customers. This time around, the bulk of the special edition treatment focuses on the range-topping GT500 model, but Ford engineers also made sure to find time for the Mustang Ecoboost convertible and coupe. . GT500 Heritage Edition Wears Vintage Colors, Code Orange Paint Has Dino DNA  The GT500 Heritage Edition prefers to be simple and straight to the point with the package preferring to let its colors do the talking; The bodywork is adorned …

Keep reading

2022 Nissan Sentra Brings Light Updates, Retains $20,485 Base MSRP Price

by

The current generation Nissan Sentra first arrived on the scene in 2020 when it was radically revamped for that particular model year. With such an extensive list of changes, Nissan has chosen to give a lighter touch to the Sentra for 2022 with a small suite of updates as well as a slightly tweaked base price for customers looking to add the compact four-door to their garage.   Minor Updates Add Big Value To Sentra Before we get into some of the broader pricing tweaks, we might as well spend some time covering all three of the updates that will …

Keep reading

Subaru Solterra EV SUV Revealed Ahead Of L.A., Goes Beyond Badge Engineering

by

Subaru has spent the past few months slowly teasing the all-new Solterra EV, the first all-electric offering that the company has produced while also solidifying its partnership with Toyota. The Solterra is making its debut at the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show, and the company has decided to release a few more photos of the EV ahead of its debut under the lights in L.A.   Toyota DNA Is Evident But Solterra Has Subaru Charm Too When you first look at the Solterra, its uncanny resemblance to the Toyota bZ4x is evident when you look at its exterior styling. While …

Keep reading

Chevrolet Beast SEMA Concept Is Part Silverado, All Trail Slaying Monster

by

Chevrolet certainly raised our expectations when they revealed that they were unleashing a beast at the 2021 SEMA show in Las Vegas. Thankfully, the Beast concept lives up to the hype, and it served as a very extreme example of some of the technology that Chevrolet will be bringing to future truck models as the bow-tie brigade seeks to maximize profits in the off-road segment.   Chevrolet Beast Is A Radical Departure From The Silverado Chevrolet reps revealed that this wild concept started life as a Silverado, but we’ll understand if you can’t quite see the source material. In this …

Keep reading

2022 Lexus LC 500 and 500h Arrive With Minor Updates, Introduce Bespoke Build Option

by

In our recently published review of the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible, we pointed out that the LC 500 had the potential to emerge as a true world-beater in the Grand Touring segment if it received the right amount of upgrades. Lexus appears to have been listening to some of this feedback from consumers and has introduced several minor updates that aim to keep the LC lineup fresh for 2022.   Bespoke Build Options Add Exclusivity, Shuffles Equipment Around While these updates do not focus on the dysfunctional infotainment technology that constantly haunts the LC lineup like a ruthless specter, …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Lexus LC500 Convertible – The Perfect Summer Time Ragtop

by

When the Lexus LC 500 coupe first made its appearance a few years ago, it proved that Lexus was indeed capable of designing a sharp-looking Coupe that could be a contender to rivals from BMW and Mercedes as well as select Maserati models. The exterior styling looked like rolling artwork, and the interior was comfortable and well insulated from the outside world. But while it functioned well as a coupe, some wanted a droptop. Lexus has delivered the 2021 Lexus LC500 convertible. But is it the ultimate toy?   LC500’s Exterior Styling Has Us Longing For The Quiet Days Of …

Keep reading

GMC Shows Off 2022 Hummer EV Accessories Ahead Of SEMA Debut

by

The off-road segment is a booming business for many automakers and a key element that helps make them a sales success is the vast pool of accessories that customers can put onto their rigs before they hit the trail. GMC is no exception and knows that its Hummer EV will be popular with lifestyle buyers looking for trail-ready capability. Many of these buyers will also want to adorn their Hummer with accessories, and GMC will use the annual SEMA show in Las Vegas to preview some of them before they make their way to dealerships.   GMC Will Offer Over …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Ghost Becomes Spectre Of The Night With All New Ghost Black Badge Model

by

Rolls Royce is riding a wave of success, especially regarding its Black Badge lineup of ultra-luxury models. Black Badge alone represents about 30 percent of Rolls Royce’s global sales, with the company planning to offer Black Badge versions of nearly all of its models (Phantom excluded). That includes the newest member of the Black Badge family, the Ghost Black Badge sedan.   Ghost Back Badge Adds Sinister Charm To Exterior Styling The Ghost Black Badge largely follows the exact patented blueprint that has defined other Black Badge models. Black is the color of choice here, with the large chrome grille …

Keep reading

Mercedes-AMG Reboots An Icon With 2022 SL Roadster, More Power And Style Define Open Top Roadster

by

The Mercedes SL roadster has always been an iconic marque in the droptop luxury roadster segment. The two-seater was the benchmark for the segment and did a good job projecting Mercedes’s influence in the luxury car game for the bulk of its existence. But the outgoing SL represented a decline, with the roadster suffering from a sales slide and some signs of aging. Mercedes aims to change all that with the 2022 SL, which will be the most significant change that the model has seen.   AMG Infused Exterior Styling Gives This SL More Visual Bite A significant change for …

Keep reading

Land Rover Reveals 2022 Range Rover SUV, Smoother Styling Blends Elegantly With New Technology

by

It’s not often that a radically upgraded Range Rover enters the world, but Land Rover certainly knows how to make a splash when it does. The outgoing Range Rover performed its job well but criticized its exterior styling and some of its technology. Land Rover is out to the right those wrongs and has unveiled the 2022 Range Rover.   New Exterior Styling Smooths Out The Edges, Generates New Discussion One of the significant changes that’s coming to the 2022 Range Rover is also one of Land Rover’s biggest gambles, with the SUV now adopting a minimalist approach to exterior …

Keep reading

Ford Expedition Timberline Pricing Leaked, Reportedly Starts At $68,385

by

The Ford Expedition Timberline fired a warning shot at the Jeep Wagoneer when it debuted at the 2021 Motor Bella extravaganza in Detroit. While a mini monsoon prevented us from getting to know it better, Ford is confident that this flavor of Expedition will be a good Jeep rival. However, pricing information remained elusive. But thanks to a report from Ford Authority, it appears that Ford has covered all angles when it comes to dethroning the Wagoneer.   Trail Ready Fun That Stays Under $70k Ford Authority claims that it gathered its findings from sources “familiar with the 2022 Expedition …

Keep reading

GMC Reivents Luxury And Capability With All New 2022 Sierra Lineup, Denali Ultimate Model Drops The Mic

by

The GMC Sierra has always been one of the pillars that has helped support the GMC truck brand. In recent years, the Sierra has added extra levels of technology to its already impressive arsenal of rugged performance hardware in an attempt to help it stand out from rivals like the Ram 1500 and the segment-leading Ford F-150. The current generation truck is no slouch, but it was held back by lackluster interior and exterior design. GMC has decided to take action and has unveiled the all-new 2022 GMC Sierra.   Mid-Cycle Evolution Adds Precision To Venerable Nameplate While this is …

Keep reading

Chevrolet Teases 2023 Corvette Z06, Shows Off 8,600 RPM Redline

by

We’re less than a week away from the unveiling of the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06, and while this model is shaping up to be the most potent C8 offering yet, we still had some questions that remained unanswered. One of them was how high the beefed-up V8 could climb before it hit the redline. Chevrolet has answered that question boldly with the unveiling of an all-new teaser video.   Z06 Redline Is Not Quite Over 9,000, But It’s Pretty Close 8,600 minutes until the worldwide feature-film premiere revealing the All-New 2023 #Corvette #Z06. Tune in 12pm ET on 10.26.21. pic.twitter.com/fy6viEdwex …

Keep reading

Honda Unveils 2022 Civic Si, Better Performance Is Paired With Mandatory Manual

by

Honda is preparing a new wave of performance offerings. While the 2023 Type R is still waiting in the wings, the Japanese auto giant has chosen to unveil the latest generation Si, bringing more performance and substance to an iconic model that has been a popular choice among young budget-minded performance buyers.    Manual Transmission Is Still Mandatory On 2022 Civic Si A critical question that we had going into today was whether the Civic Si would add the CVT standard on many lesser Civic models? Unlike Civic Sis of the past, this one would have to contend with a new …

Keep reading

Hyundai Taps The Dark Side Of Sonata Performance With All New Sonata Night Edition

by

The Hyundai Sonata N Line is already an exciting performance sedan in a segment feeling the heat from surging utility vehicle demand. But what if you’re looking for a Sonata N that channels the inner darkness of your performance desires while also paying tribute to G.I. Joe? Hyundai thinks it has the answer with the all-new Sonata N Line Night Edition.   The Eyes Of The Serpent Gaze Upon This Sonata While this flavor of the Sonata does not pay homage to an iconic Cobra-badged muscle car, Hyundai claims that the serpent this model pays homage to is sneaky ninja …

Keep reading

Learning The Ropes On And Off The Track, We Spend A Day At BMW’s Performance Center West

by

Growing up as a kid, I always had a solid drive to learn new things, which helped me be very adaptable in various aspects of my life and allowed me to participate in a multitude of roles during the first few years of my time in the working world. That would later extend to my press career, where I learned to hone my driving skills. But something always seemed to be missing, like the critical piece in a Lego set needed to complete whatever model one is working on completing. To help fill that proverbial void, I traveled to BMW’s …

Keep reading

Nissan To Enter 2022 Rebelle Rally With Retro Flavored Frontier Pickup, The 1980s Have Returned

by

Nissan is pushing ahead towards an all-electric future, but while the world is going green, the company is still very mindful of the past. That includes the 1980s, a decisive era for Nissan’s pickup lineup thanks to strong showings by Nissan Hardbody trucks in off-road racing. The Japanese auto giant is hoping that a small infusion of the past will be the magic elixir needed for the firm to win the 2022 running of the Rebelle Rally event with the help of an exceptional Frontier pickup.   Red White & Blue Vinyl Wrap Gives This Frontier Retro Flair The Frontier …

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Makes Electrified History, Confirms That Spectre EV Will Be First Production Rolls Royce EV

by

Rolls Royce has always been a very consistent entity in how it handled core aspects of its business. All of their models focused on being the best luxury cars globally, the company focused on achieving symbolic perfection, and the V12 reigned supreme in the engine bay. That third item has always been a central pillar for Rolls, with company execs getting hot and bothered when the subject of green technology is raised. However, it appears that the V12’s dominant reign could soon be coming to an end with the unveiling of the all-new Spectre model.   Ghostly Spectre Signals All-Electric …

Keep reading

Chevrolet Releases First Teaser Photo Of 2023 C8 Z06, Looks Ready To Hunt Ferraris

by

We have always wondered what it would look like if Chevrolet decided to go hunting for Ferraris with the 2023 Corvette ZO6, and thanks to a newly released photo of the 2023 Corvette ZO6, we have a look at the sharper and more ferocious member of the C8 Corvette family ahead of its October 23rd debut.   Core Vette Design Gets Beefed Up With ZO6 Add-Ons When you compare the standard-issue Corvette with the new ZO6, you’ll see that GM’s changes to the car are not as extensive as some might have expected. The core design is still present and …

Keep reading

2022 Nissan Frontier Shows Off Nismo Off-Road Parts At 2021 Overland Expo

by

Nissan first promised a whole suite of Nismo branded accessories for the 2022 Frontier when the revamped mid-size pickup made its global debut earlier this year. But the company kept the bulk of these accessories under wraps, until now, with the company debuting the first wave of these accessories at the 2021 Overland Expo.   Nismo Parts Trail Ready And Eager To Please The Frontier that Nissan will have on display at the event comes loaded to the brim with accessories. It appears that the truck has even more accessories than the original number that the company announced late last …

Keep reading

Ram Unveils Three New Special Edition Ram Models, Spicy TRX Igntion Edition Leads The Charge

by

The State Fair Of Texas has unofficially become ground-zero for the pickup wars with the Domestic Big Three (Ford GM and Ram) using the festivities to show off their latest wares. Ram has chosen to go to a familiar but welcome chapter in their playbook with a wave of special edition models, with the trio being led by the Ram TRX Ignition Edition TRX Ignition Edition Adds Bright Color To Unchanged Performance Hardware The 2022 Ram TRX Ignition Editon leads the way, which adds some unique trim applications to the truck. The firebreathing 702 hp Hellcat V8 and the performance …

Keep reading

Ford Confirms Rumored Bronco Raptor Model, Will Appear In 2022

by

We should’ve known that Ford would have a huge surprise in its bag of tricks when we listened eagerly to the brand’s announcement of the 2022 Expedition lineup. What seemed like the typical conclusion of a press conference diverted in an exciting direction when Ford reps revealed that not only is the 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor a production reality. But that we wouldn’t have to wait very long for it either, with the beefed-up Bronco expected to make its appearance sometime in 2022. Brief Teaser Provides A Literal Glimpse Of The Bronco Raptor And Not Much Else While our glimpse …

Keep reading

Ford Unveils Refreshed 2022 Expedition, New Trim Levels And Technology Form Bulk Of Changes

by

The current generation Ford Expedition is entering its fourth model year of service. But while the big utility is still a top go to for family buyers, some aspects of its game were starting to age badly in the face of relentless competition. Ford has taken note, and has given the family hauler a light refresh for 2022 that aims to sharpen its resolve while also allowing it to stay on the curve with rivals like the Chevrolet Suburban and the Jeep Wagoneer family.   Light Exterior Refresh Nips And Tucks The Expedition’s Functionality At first glance, the exterior revisions …

Keep reading

Toyota Debuts 2022 Tundra Pickup, All-New Twin-Turbo V6 And Optional Hybrid Sharpen Focus On Rivals

by

The truck wars in the U.S. remain a hotly contested battleground for automakers. While the bulk of sales are focused almost exclusively on the Domestic Big Three (Ford GM and Ram), a few disruptors are trying to shake up the system. One of them is Toyota, who used the power and appeal of the NFL to formally unveil the 2022 Tundra, which is the most extensive reboot that the truck has ever received. Here are a few things you should know about Toyota’s revamped pickup.   Exterior Styling Is Major Departure From Past Tundras The exterior styling of the 2022 …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Hyundai Venue Denim – As Capable And Value Filled As A Pair Of Slick Jeans

by

The sport utility market seems to be at its breaking point when it comes to the sheer number of offerings that are available in the market today. From big to small, it’s apparent that the world’s automakers are trying to fill every possible niche in the battle for SUV dominance. The Hyundai Venue is one of those that are trying to make its mark in the compact SUV segment. But does the Venue still have what it takes to bring it to competitors looking to trounce it on value? And why does our tester look like a pair of blue …

Keep reading

Ford Brings Green To Crimefighting With Creation Of Mach-E GT Police Interceptor Concept, Will Enter MSP Trials

by

Fighting crime is tricky for many police departments, and it’s natural to assume that electrification and green motoring might not fit into the script at first glance. However, while the bulk of the spotlight is focused on creating EV entries for the civilian market, Ford wanted to cover all angles and unveiled an all-new Mach-E Police Interceptor, which will be spending some time with the Michigan State Police Department.   Mustang Mach-E Will Have Very Formidable Shoes To Fill The latest Mach-E Police Interceptor concept will have two sets of shoes to fill if it gets full approval for police …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Volkswagen Arteon SEL Premium R-Line – CC Replacement Does An Even Better Audi Impression

by

The Volkswagen Arteon had alot on its plate when it first appeared in the U.S. in 2018. Not only did it have to replace the languishing CC in the U.S., but it also showed that top-notch Volkswagen design could move beyond the GTI and Golf R hot hatches and into other nameplates that might not have as much firepower under the hood. But does the Arteon truly succeed in finally bringing cohesive luxury to buyers in this regard? We followed up our west coast encounter of the Arteon with a sequel here on the east coast to see if the …

Keep reading

Nissan Unveils GT-R T-Spec, Features Callbacks From The Past And T-Spec Exclusive Styling

by

The Nissan GT-R has soldiered on in some shape or form since 2008, with two facelifts in 2011 and 2017 helping to keep Father Time away. In addition to these facelifts, special edition models (along with potent performance numbers) have also played a big role with Nissan using the latter reason to take the veil off of its newest special edition GT-R the all-new T-Spec Edition.   New T-Spec Colors Bring Back Memories Of The Past The exterior styling of the GT-R has not changed very much, and the T-Spec leaves the core albeit aging design alone. Instead, it focuses …

Keep reading

Subaru Unveils 2022 WRX Sedan, Promises New Performance In Familiar Wrapper, Debuts GT Trim [Gallery]

by

The cancellation of the 2022 New York Auto Show due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns forced automakers to completely rethink how they unveiled products that were originally intended to shine under the spotlight in the Big Apple. Subaru was a firm affected by the abrupt cancellation, but that did not stop them from unveiling the 2022 WRX, which aims to bring new performance to buyers and embrace the familiarity that has become a hallmark trait of the model.   Familiar Impreza Lines Are Enhanced In WRX Transformation When you first look at the 2022 WRX, you can see that it shares …

Keep reading

Chevrolet Unveils Refreshed 2022 Silverado, Super Cruise And ZR2 Model Highlight Updates

by

Evolution, it seems, will be a very prevalent theme for the full-size pickup segment. The 2021/2022 Ford F-150 is reaping the benefits from its suite of updates, and it appears that Chevrolet is eager to throw its hat in the ring, too, with the bow-tie brigade unveiling the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado. Here are 3 things that you should know about this sleeker Silverado.   Reworked Silverado Front Fascia And Interior Aim To Address Weak Points When the outgoing Chevrolet Silverado appeared a few years ago, it was obvious that the truck had some notable weaknesses, with the front fascia and …

Keep reading

Cadillac Aims Higher With 2023 Cadillac Lyriq, Musical Moniker Is More Than A Gimmick

by

When Cadillac unveiled the 2023 Lyriq EV SUV, it promised that the model would elevate the levels of luxury that a Cadilac model could provide while also serving as an elegant example of its Ultium technology in action. The Lyriq certainly appears to have the goods to pull it off and it even looks elegant in pictures, but how does it measure up in the real world? Cadillac invited us to GM Tech Center to spend some time with the Lyriq in-person to see some of its inner workings in person.   Near Production Exterior Radiates With Lighting, State Of …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 Rolls Royce Cullinan Black Badge – Rolls Makes A Performance SUV And The World Takes Notice

by

Rolls Royce is rolling the dice in the SUV segment with the 2021 Rolls Royce Cullinan Black Badge. When The Cullinan first appeared in 2019, it rewrote the definition of the pinnacle in luxury automobiles. It wasn’t long ago that owning a Phantom or even a Ghost sedan signified that you made it in the world. Still, with SUV demand rising globally, the British ultra-luxury carmaker knew it had to adapt to rapidly changing times. Our initial taste of the Cullinan was brief, with our 30-minute encounter doing little to answer how the large SUV would fare in long-term ownership. …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2021 BMW Alpina XB7 – An X7 M In A Fine Velvet Suit

by

BMW usually has a pretty consistent game plan when it comes to making performance models. It’s willing to sprinkle the vaunted M badge on all kinds of models, but it leaves the largest models (X7 and 7-Series) alone. Those models get a special trip to BMW tuner Alpina where they are transformed into exceptional performance luxury specials. Alpina is making history in 2021 by unleashing the Alpina XB7 onto American shores for the first time. But can Alpina’s first U.S. bound SUV entry to shake up the ultra-luxury performance SUV segment? Alpina Exterior Touches Transform XB7 The BMW X7 is …

Keep reading

Ford Goes For A Swim With Ranger Splash Package, Is Tribute To 1990’s Era Special

by

Fans of 1990s nostalgia (or those that actually grew up in the decade) will undoubtedly remember the Ford Ranger Splash package. The Splash was Ford’s attempt at channeling the west coast design trends that defined the 1990s. It came with package exclusive decals, a lightly tweaked interior, and a flare side bed. Ford is looking to channel some of this magic for the current Ranger and has revealed that it will be reviving the Splash treatment for the new Ranger.   Tamer Styling Package Still Spices Up Ranger’s Game With Sharp Graphics Unlike the original Splash, Ford designers chose to …

Keep reading

Whoops, Subaru Canada Unveils Beefier Forester Wilderness Model Early

by

The Subaru Forester has managed to carve a very compelling niche for itself in the utility vehicle market. With a combination of quality, capability, and in recent years, standard equipment, the Forester has always risen to the occasion time and time again. But there’s always room for growth, and thanks to an ill-timed reveal by Subaru of Canada, we now get to see that the Forester will be the latest Subaru model to earn the Wilderness badge for the new model year.   Forester Bulks Up In Wilderness Trim While Subaru’s plans for an epic surprise rapidly turned into dust …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2022 Honda Civic – Tamer But Still In Firm Benchmark Territory

by

The Honda Civic is in a very elite club when it comes to being familiar with drivers across the U.S. The Civic was one of the models that helped the Japanese automakers get a foothold in the U.S. compact car market, and the Civic has not relinquished its grip on the segment since it appeared several decades ago. But the outgoing Civic was very controversial, especially with its exterior styling. The company wanted to re-embrace its performance heritage but ended up letting the designers go too wild with their creativity. Honda has learned their lesson with the 2022 Civic, but …

Keep reading

Hyundai Releases 2022 Kona Pricing, Base Model Starts At $23,375

by

Hyundai promised bigger and better things from the 2022 Hyundai Kona when the Korean car giant first unveiled it some time ago. We got to see all the changes that Hyundai made to the exterior and the interior of the revamped compact CUV while also learning that a fire-breathing Kona N would also be joining the family for performance-seeking buyers (this author included.) But amid all the extra horsepower and technology, Hyundai forgot to disclose just how much of your hard-earned money would be needed to add a Kona to your garage? The wait is over on that, with Hyundai …

Keep reading