ROAD TEST REVIEWS

Road Test Review – 2022 Kia EV GT vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 – Which One Is Better?

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Hyundai and Kia are both preparing for an EV-fueled future with the Kia EV6 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Both of these SUVs are eager to show off their green roots but go about it in different ways. But which one is best? We decided to follow up on Ben Lewis’s recent experience with the EV6 to see which one is indeed best?   Ioniq & EV6 Birds Of A Different Feather Both of these models share the same platform, but that doesn’t mean that things have devolved into a situation like the old Chevrolet Trailblazer and its myriad of …

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2022 Chevy Traverse RS: Rally Sport to its Roots

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Traverse RS Review When Chevy debuted Rally Sport in the 1960’s it was an appearance package. A Camaro SS could be ordered with the RS package, making it a Camaro SS/RS. The original RS package included hidden headlights, with vacuum activated covers that would slide out of the way when the headlights were turned on, unique tail lights, RS badging and bright trim, but no performance upgrades. 2022 Traverse RS Highlights Things take a different route for the 2022 Traverse RS. Instead of hidden headlights, there are LED lights low in the bumper with running lights up high. In place …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT – Can Electrons Replace Raw Power?

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The Ford Mustang Mach-E was a controversial move when Ford first unveiled it especially after it was revealed that it would use the name Mustang which would put it in the same corporate family as the iconic Mustang pony car. Fast forward to now, and that initial wave of skepticism has transformed into strong sales with the Mach-E rapidly becoming a sales leader for Ford. But the one thing that seemed to be missing at first was performance, with lower grade models lacking the spice to make them true performance models. The Mach-E GT aims to change that but can …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Jaguar F-Pace S P340 AWD – This Cat’s Got Claws

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The Jaguar F-Pace has always stood out when it comes to its ability to be a practical family hauler and moonlight as an enthusiast sleeper pick when you have the chance to go down twistier sections of tarmac. The F-Pace has proven to be a sales hit for Jaguar, and its success even inspired the company to release the smaller E-Pace. That said, does the 2022 F-Pace still have the chops to hang with the segment’s best, or are its recent round of updates not enough to keep it from falling behind the pack?   F-Pace’s Callum Penned Lines Still …

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2022 Kia EV6 Wind Review by Ben Lewis

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Today, we are driving the car of the future. When you look at Kia’s new EV6 electric vehicle, it’s easy to think that this is what the future of the automobile might look like. Especially if you put on your 1980’s hat. If the EV6 had plopped down at the LA Auto Show as a “future concept” we all would have nodded our heads – something stylish, unique, using electric power and loaded with all sorts of amazing tech. Well, the future is here. So how does it stack up? Meet George Jetson Well, Kia has nailed the look. First …

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Honda Drops The Mic On 2023 Honda HR-V, Confirms Pricing Info Too

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Honda’s HR-V compact utility showed that the Japanese auto giant could play in the popular compact CUV segment but while its fuel economy was very impressive, the rest of it felt like it was meant to be a jack of all trades, being competent at everything but not standing out in any discernible way. Honda is not content with being merely competent in this hot-selling segment of the utility market anymore and has unveiled the bigger 2023 Honda HR-V and even confirmed official pricing as well.   Bigger Dimensions Create More Conventional HR-V Styling The biggest change that buyers will …

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2022 Mazda MX-30 review by Ben Lewis

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Ok, Mazda will be the first to admit, but they are late to the EV party. But as a small, independent automaker, we can see that there are only so much development dollars to go around. That said, while the MX-30 EV is their first product, there will be more hybrid/EV type vehicles coming. So how does Mazda’s first crack at an EV come out? Let’s see! Sporty Styling The first look is exciting. While it’s based on the CX-30 that we love, the look differently goes its own way. The MX-30 continues with the “Kodo” design philosophy, plus adds …

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Bentley Continental GT-S And GTC-S Add New Dimesnion To Customization Experience For Buyers

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When it comes to offering buyers the ultimate car creating experience, few can top the charts the way Bentley can. The company’s strong emphasis on putting the customer first in the ultra-luxury segment has defined it for over 100 years and the British firm aims to continue this tradition with the all-new Continental GT-S and GTC-S models.  Back In Black And Sleeker Than Ever, This Continental S Has The Goods All S models begin their lives as standard V8 models but they subsequently go under the knife to become S models. The exterior appointments are mostly limited to blacked-out pieces …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Lexus ES 300h F-Sport – New Moves And Makeup Define Sporty Lexus Hybrid

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Green motoring is rapidly becoming the new normal with the overall lineup of hybrid and all-electric models growing at a rapid pace. Amid all of this growth though, it would seem that performance (with a few exceptions) is on the backburner with fuel economy being front and center. Lexus is out to change that narrative though with the 2022 Lexus ES 300h F Sport. But does the ES 300h have the chops to balance out efficiency and fun? Or is it a flawed specimen?   Attention-Grabbing Red Paint And F Sport Cues Make This ES A Hit The exterior styling …

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Land Rover Unveils 2023 Defender 130, Will Be Flagship For Moniker

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The Land Rover Defender is seeing a strong surge in sales ever since Land Rover resurrected the iconic moniker several years ago. But as the sales picture has become clearer, the need for more variants has emerged with the company formally unveiling the flagship model of the Defender lineup the all-new 2023 Defender 130 eight-passenger SUV.   Defender 130, A Reboot Within A Reboot The Defender 130 designation maybe a new thing for American consumers but it’s not the first time that Land Rover has used the 130 designation with the digits last being used to represent vintage pickup-based Defender …

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2022 Hyundai Kona Electric Limited Review by Ben Lewis

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Ok, maybe it’s the name but we always seem to be spending our holidays in Kona. The Hyundai Kona, that is. Last year we spent Xmas with the new 2022 Kona Limited, and now we’re spending Memorial Day with the Kona Electric. We’ve always been fans of the Kona – a very sporty small crossover, especially with the powerful 1.6-liter turbo engine. So, we wondered, would we still love it with a full EV powertrain? Let’s find out! Sporty but Unique At first glance, you know this is a Kona. That’s good, we love the expressive style, especially with the …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Polaris Slingshot SLR – Turbocharging Improves The Breed

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When the Polaris Slingshot first appeared a few years ago, it signified a bold push for Polaris with the model being the first cyclecar that the company ever produced outside their usual lineup of snowmobiles and off-road vehicles. The Slingshot’s blend of traits and its ability to be licensed as a car in some states (instead of a motorcycle) helped generate a strong surge in sales. However, the first generation Slingshot was also a crude offering and lacked some of the things that we take for granted in traditional cars. Polaris sought to remedy this with the second generation Slingshot …

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2022 Subaru WRX Limited Review by Ben Lewis

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So, it’s easy to be a fan of Subaru – we’ve recently tested the Outback, the Forester, and the Ascent and loved them all. That’s the SUV outdoorsy type of owner. But you’ve also got the performance-type Subie lover, and that means the BRZ and the WRX. We recently tested the BRZ rear-wheel drive sport coupe and it’s a huge step forward for an already great driver’s car. So, when we heard there was an all-new WRX, we gladly got in line. Introduced in 2002, the WRX stunned the performance world with turbocharged all-wheel-drive performance that gave rally car goodness …

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GMC Takes Hummer EV SUV To Moab, Celebrates Key Step In Vehicle Testing

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GMC promised that it would take the art of capability and trail-busting performance seriously when we checked out the Hummer EV pickup in Arizona a short while back. The Hummer we drove certainly proved that it had the stuff to cover both urban commuting and trail conquering journeys but it also made us wonder about the SUV version. GMC revealed that this particular model is not getting any special treatment in its development and that the company is putting it through the same high level of testing that the pickup went through before it got into the hands of customers.   …

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Cadillac Lyriq RWD, AWD, Pricing Revealed, Free Charging Option Included

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The Cadillac Lyriq promised to have pricing that would reflect its status as the brand’s first-ever EV offering and in an announcement that was released early this morning, Cadillac delivered the goods confirming Lyriq pricing and other details   Lyriq Will Not Bust Your Wallet A notable detail here is pricing with a base RWD Lyriq starting at $62,990 which is $3,000 more than what the Debut Edition asked for when those models were announced. However, buyers will have a bigger supply pool of models and the standard model will still deliver 312 miles of driving range between charges. In …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Nissan Z -This Z Is Worth The Wait

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It has been a long time since we have seen an all-new Z car. When Nissan last updated the moniker, it was the 370Z that first appeared on the scene all the way back in 2009 (2008 in Japan.) The 370 promised more power and even more usability. However, just like how a box of Hostess Twinkies does not stay good forever (despite local legend) Nissan left the 370Z on the shelf too long without any significant updates. That large lapse in time caused the car to fall behind its rivals and slumping sales reflected this sorry state of affairs. …

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2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx Review by Ben Lewis

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You’ve read our rave reviews of the Subaru Outback. And our equally positive test of the Subaru Forester. You get all fizzy over the Subie driving experience. Heck, you even love their commercials with the dogs. (We love those too). Except you need more room. Like 3 rows of seats room. What to do? Well, you could drive some other brand and be the person in the SUV with the long face, or you can go for Subaru Ascent with three rows of Subaru goodness. But is a 3-row Sube still a Sube? Let’s find out. Big, but definitely Subaru …

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2022 Blazer Feature Image

2022 Chevrolet Blazer RS AWD Review: Rally Sport Goes Off-Pavement

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2022 Chevy Blazer RS: When Rally Sport Makes a Difference The 2022 Blazer RS is the only RS trimmed crossover from Chevy that gets performance upgrades. In the case of the Blazer there is a dual clutch rear differential that can torque vector. Oddly enough this dual clutch feature can also essentially lock the rear axle shafts together for excellent off-pavement traction. 2022 Blazer RS Exterior For 2022 Chevy has added Nitro Yellow and Blue Glow to the color lineup of the Blazer. Our tester was adorned in the very bright Nitro Yellow. Many manufacturers are offering distinct new colors …

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2023 Subaru Legacy Gets Light Updates, New Sport Trim And Technology

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With the 2023 Outback getting its share of mild updates, it was only a matter of time before its sedan counterpart the 2023 Legacy would get its turn under the knife. Subaru used the occasion to spruce things up a bit while also adding some new moves to the Legacy’s repertoire as well.   New Sport Trim Highlights Legacy Exterior Design Changes The 2023 Legacy received some updates to the exterior styling with the headlights, front grille and the lower bumper all being worked on. The changes pop out more when you look at the all-new Sport trim for the …

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Rolls Royce Unveils Updated Phantom Series II, Adds New Shine To Icon

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A key trait of Rolls Royce over the years is that when the company updates one of its models, it prefers to do things subtly, with the car’s presence and the features it’s packing doing much of the talking. That established script has carried over to the 2023 Rolls Royce Phantom which has received a suite of new updates and an all-new Series II designation.   Phantom Styling Takes Pages From Ghost When Rolls Royce execs said that the changes to the Phantom were mild, they were not kidding with the car looking much like it did when it is …

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Cadillac Confirms Blackwing Engine For Escalade-V, $149k Sticker Price

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When we last saw the 2023 Cadillac Escalade-V it was a classic case of Cadillac reps giving us half the picture with the Escalade shining in the spotlight but without any information regarding what kind of engine would be under the hood of the souped-up utility. Cadillac claimed that this month would be when we get all of the answers, and it turns out the wait was worth it with the Escalade-V being the first Cadillac to receive hardware from the Blackwing performance sedan lineup.   Escalade-v Flaps Its Wings For Performance With the V moniker, it was initially safe …

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2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Is Crisper And Greener Than Ever

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It wasn’t too long ago that we saw the bigger 2022 Land Rover Range Rover make its debut with the reworked luxury SUV shaking up how Range Rover loyalists envisioned style and luxury. Land Rover has just revealed its second act with the all-new 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, which is sleeker, smarter, and even greener than ever before.   Range Rover Sport Takes A Different Approach To Style The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport still has a mouthful of a name, but like other Range Rover Sport models, the exterior styling is still a unique exercise. The …

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2023 Honda Odyssey Pitches LX Trim For All-New Sport Trim, Adds Other Updates

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The 2023 Honda Odyssey is proof that Honda knows how to make a good bestseller. Having received a more extensive suite of updates a short while ago, Honda is leaving things largely unchanged for the 2023 model year, but new trims and a newly introduced scheduled maintenance program aim to keep things fresh for a while longer until the Odyssey gets more extensive updates.   Sport Trim Adds Sinister Vibes To Family Hauling Odyssey A notable change here for 2023 is that the Odyssey gets an all-new Sport trim to help appeal to those that want more excitement in their …

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2022 Honda Civic Si 4DR Review by Ben Lewis

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The 2022 model year saw a brand new Honda Civic, and we’ve enjoyed every one we’ve tested, especially the turbo models, including the Honda Civic Touring Sedan, and the Civic Sport Touring Hatchback. But Honda kept us waiting with a slightly delayed introduction of the Civic Si, the Civic aimed straight at the heart of the enthusiast. So, was it worth the wait? Let’s find out! Bold Design We’ve already talked about how much we love the new Civics’ looks. It’s grown up, with a much cleaner overall appearance and less gimmicky aerodynamic baubles that were a little too shouty …

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2023 Bentley Bentayga Elevates Luxury Game For Buyers, Debuts New Airline Seats

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When it comes to the world of flagship offerings, Bentley has been notably absent from the game ever since the Mulsanne left production a few years ago. The Bentayga SUV was considered by some to be the new flagship, but it lacked some of the opulent details to help it truly embrace the role. Bentley has fixed that issue and has unveiled the all-new 2023 Bentayga Extended Wheelbase model that adds more room and luxury to the Bentayga experience.   More Chrome And Style Define This Bentayga The exterior styling of the EWB may look the same as any other …

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2023 Kia Soul Gets New Updates, Pitches Turbo Model

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The Kia Soul has proven to be a winner for Kia in terms of sales with the 2023 model enhancing the design and technology for buyers in its latest round of updates. However, this has come at a cost, with Kia confirming that the spicy turbo model is getting the ax in 2023.    Slight Tweaks Maintain Core Soul Essentials Unlike other mid-cycle updates, the Soul’s takes a lighter approach when it comes to its exterior updates. The front fascia has the most noticeable improvements with the headlights being larger than before while the lower lights appear to have vanished. …

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2021 Hyundai Venue Denim Review by Ben Lewis

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When we first tested the Hyundai Venue, we commented on how the small affordable SUV, with models like the Toyota C-HR and Honda HR-V had come of age. Wow, with the rise in prices everywhere, the bulging gas bills, etc.…we feel like we should have been on the psychic network. So, it felt like a good time to look again at one of the best small vehicles for the buck, the Hyundai Venue crossover/SUV. Style to Make You Smile The Venue first strikes you with its size. 5 inches shorter than the Kona crossover, it looks perfect for duking it …

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Comparison Test – 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum vs 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature

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The quest for family vehicle sales dominance has rapidly become the number one priority for many automakers with the SUV and CUV segments bearing the brunt of sales demand from consumers. However, consumer expectations of what they want from a large three-row utility and what it should have has grown from over 20 years ago with tech and fuel economy becoming key requirements. The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder and the 2022 Mazda CX-9 are two entries trying to lure in more families, but while they each have a different way of doing it, we wanted to find out which one is …

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2022 Volvo S90 B6 AWD R-Design review by Ben Lewis

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Volvo used to be famous for sedans (and wagons). But if you ask today’s buyer, it’s probably all about the SUV XC models like the XC40, XC60 and XC90. They also have some gorgeous wagons if you are interested. And while they don’t always get the prime-time headlines, Volvo makes some very appealing sedans. Case in point, our 2022 S90 sedan. In fact, it may just be one our favorite Volvo’s! Big, Bold, Beautiful The first thing that grabs you is the sheer size of the Swedish sedan. It’s as long as many 3-row SUV’s and its sharp lines really …

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Climbing Machine

Chevy’s 2022 Colorado ZR2 is Still Great!

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2022 Chevy Colorado ZR2: End of a Generation Chevy needs to update the Colorado, and they know that. The 2022 Colorado ZR2 is the last year of this generation before the newer, more efficient, more powerful version arrives. Outside the 2022 Colorado ZR2 In an automotive world that mostly exists in grayscale, and red, this Bright Blue Metallic ZR2 pops. From any angle a ZR2 is easily distinguished from other Colorado and Canyon trim levels. From the front, the bumper has very large clearance cuts so the tires have better access to the terrain. This also takes away the mounting …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Toyota Highlander Bronze Edition – Does Art Make The Highlander Better?

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The Toyota Highlander is an SUV entry that largely follows the same script that has come to define many others in its segment. It’s large, has the ability to haul up to three rows of passengers, and has doubled down on its attempts to be a fuel miser with an available hybrid equipped four-cylinder. These things individually are all good traits, but we won’t be shocked if they failed to make the Highlander ring a bell in your memory bank. The Japanese auto giant thinks it might have just the thing with the all-new Highlander Bronze Edition, but is this …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Genesis GV70 Sport Prestige, Filling Out Genesis’s Luxury Utility Footprint

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When we had our chance to drive the Genesis GV80 awhile back, it appeared to signal a shift in Genesis’s plans for the luxury market, with the Korean upstart focusing more on utilities and crossovers after initially starting its launch with two sedan models. The GV80 is still a very good luxury SUV, but Genesis knows that it has to gradually move towards smaller segments and embraces a sportier lifestyle in order to expand its sales footprint. The 2022 GV70 is a step towards this goal, but is it the perfect complement to the GV80?   Sharper GV70 Styling Points …

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2022 S580

2022 Mercedes-Benz S580 Review: Why Full Size Sedans Are King

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2022 S580: The World Standard Sedans have fallen out of favor in the US market, the 2022 S580 proves this is a major mistake on the consumers’ part. Read on to find out why! Outside Approaching from the front the 2022 S580 has all the right proportions. With the exception of the hood badge and hood ornament, it is an understated design. The front end is low, wide, and incredibly well sculpted. AMG body lines on the bumper tie in well with the slight bulges and creases in the hood. The Grill is massive with a noticeable portion being used …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Ford Maverick XLT Hybrid FWD – Shifting The Green Balance In Mid-Size Pickups

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Ford’s bold plan of being a pure SUV and pickup company (Mustang excluded, of course) generated its fair share of criticism and faced a test courtesy of surging gas prices. But despite all of this, Ford is still generating massive profits and is rocketing towards an all-electric future. The Ford F-150 and the Ranger pickups are two vital cogs in the company’s broader sales machine. However, the family still had room for a smaller offering, and Ford has delivered the goods with the all-new Ford Maverick. But can the Maverick be the urban-entric truck offering that will allow the company …

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2022 Kia Sorento PHEV SX-Prestige AWD review by Ben Lewis

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Like we’ve noted before, the Kia Sorento has one big problem – it lives in the shadow of its big brother the Telluride. Ok, the Telly does deserve the acclaim it’s a great 3-row SUV that looks, goes and performs just how you’d want a big SUV to. But the Sorento has a lot going for it, too. In fact, while it’s smaller, it still serves up 3 rows of seats, and we’d argue it’s a more advanced vehicle, first being offered in a Hybrid model, and now with a new for ’22 PHEV plug-in hybrid variant. And with the …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz – Hyundai’s First Pickup Goes For The Lifestyle Crowd

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Hyundai, making pickup trucks? When Hyundai announced that it was making a pickup entry, we were admittedly skeptical, especially considering that the Korean car giant had never made a conventional pickup offering up to this point. Hyundai thinks it’s on to something with the Santa Cruz, and when we had the chance to briefly sample it in Ann Arbor, it certainly made an excellent first impression. But how would it do with more prolonged exposure? We were keen to find out.   Sport Adventure Vehicle Motif Defines Santa Cruz We called out Hyundai back then for asserting that the Santa …

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First Ride – VinFast VF 8 – Does It Live Up To The Hype?

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VinFast has rapidly become the new darling of the EV segment. This is thanks partly to the strong support from the VinGroup parent company and some of the automotive talent that the company has managed to recruit to its ranks. But can VinFast do what Chinese firms failed to do and bring an affordable EV alternative to consumers? We were eager to find out and made our way to the EV Test Track at the New York Auto Show to go for a ride inside the VF 8 to get a small taste of what’s in store for consumers when …

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Equinox RS

2022 Chevy Equinox RS Drive and Off-Pavement Review

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2022 Chevy Equinox RS The Chevy Equinox RS is a new trim for 2022. Chevy introduced the RS  in the Camaro in the late 1960’s. RS stands for Rally Sport, and debuted as an appearance package that could be added onto any other trim level Camaro. It included hideaway headlights, reverse lights, and other trim pieces. Following that history, the Equinox RS is very much an appearance trim without any performance upgrades. However, instead of a standalone package it is a separate trim level. Outside the Equinox RS Separating the RS from other trim levels are some unique features. It …

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First Ride – INDI EV Indi One – Is It The Ultimate Gamer Station?

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When INDI EV was founded back in 2017, the basic formula seemed to be a very promising one: make a futuristic EV that would deliver the goods on mileage and enhance connectivity. INDI made a splash this week when they kicked off pre-ordering for the Indi One during NYIAS press days. But is it worth the sum of its parts?   First Ride Gives Mixed Impression To find out, we made the trek down to the EV test track (after a brief stop at INDI’s booth) to have our chance to ride in the futuristic crossover. The exterior styling of …

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2021 Land Rover Defender 90 First Edition Review by Ben Lewis

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So, we road test a lot of different vehicles. And some of them are very expensive, status-y models, and it’s no surprise that you get an interesting range of responses. Often times with the pricey ones, you get pushback, the anti-snobbism. So, it’s interesting when you have a vehicle that’s a luxury brand, loaded with status, yet everyone seems to love it. Case in point – our 2021 Land Rover Defender 90. It’s a charmer. Lovable Looks Well, the first thing that bowls people over is the Defender’s design. Our 2-door 90 model looks like a giant Tonka Toy – …

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Road Test Comparison – 2022 Mazda 3 Hatchback vs 2022 Honda Civic Si – Which Is Better?

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The compact sedan market can be a very interesting place to explore once you have a chance to look at some of the current offerings that are available for consumer consumption. Once relegated to cheap econoboxes that favored thriftiness over performance (hot hatches like the GTI excluded) the segment has rapidly morphed into a different breed with luxury, design, and technology rapidly becoming the key benchmarks as they attempt to stand out against CUVs. The 2022 Mazda 3 and the 2022 Honda Civic Si are two such examples, with both trying to appeal to a broader swath of the market. …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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2022 Lexus NX 350 F SPORT Handling AWD review by Ben Lewis

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We’re always happy to test a new Lexus – but a little like Forrest Gump’s box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get. Sometimes they are just lovely, refined vehicles that you’d be happy for your grandparents to toddle around town in. But lately, Toyota’s luxury division has been messing with us – throwing some Jalapeno poppers into our box of creamy nougats. The IS 350 and IS 500 are both jaw-droppers – thrilling to drive, stunning to look at, proof that Lexus is ready to take on the world’s best and give them a good stomping. …

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

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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.” …

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

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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 …

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2022 Toyota Corolla Cross review by Ben Lewis

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This may come as no surprise to you, but the best-selling nameplate in history is Corolla. Yep, Toyota has been making them for over 50 years, and selling them like crazy the whole time. So, with the ever-continuing growth of small SUVs, it seems only natural that the carmaker would combine an SUV with the Corolla name. Welcome to the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross! Stylish but mainstream Two things strike you about the Corolla Cross. First of all, while it is stylish, there is nothing that screams Toyota or Corolla about it. We guess Corolla buyers aren’t the kind to …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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2022 BMW M240i xDrive review by Ben Lewis

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There are a lot of BMW models out there. A lot. But if we had to pick just one as a fave, we’d be leaning towards the 2-series coupe. Why? Well, call us old school, but the 2 reminds us most of the brand’s roots, from the early 1600-2002, to the 1-series, to the previous 2-series. Close coupled, personal with loads of performance and personality – and at the lower end of the price spectrum for the brand. So, when we heard there was an all-new 2-series, we were thrilled to get the opportunity to test one. Does it stay …

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2022 Ford Maverick XLT: The Best Value Available

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All New for 2022! Ford welcomed the Maverick nameplate back to the US market. Originally produced in the USA from 1969 (1970 model year)-1977. The Ford Maverick was a 2 or 4-door sedan built to fight the smaller competitors from overseas. Today the Maverick is again a compact vehicle but with utility and functionality at the forefront of its design.  Exterior Design With a platform that is shared with the Escape and Bronco Sport the Ford Maverick mini-truck is built on a unibody. This drives many of the exterior design features, including the sizable C-pillar with a very large curve …

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

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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 …

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2021Honda Accord 2.0T Sport review by Ben Lewis

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You know, we’re always happy when we’re testing a Honda Accord. It’s like having a good friend come to visit. Yes, there’s plenty of time to talk about what’s new and exciting, but there’s also a lot of good feelings from the length of time you’ve known each other. And it’s not just us – the Accord is the best-selling car of the last 50 years. So, what’s been going on with our trusted friend? Let’s find out! Fresh Face The current Accord was already quite handsome, but we really like the upgrades they’ve made to keep Honda’s flagship sedan …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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2022 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition Review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Toyota Sienna minivan, and found the “Swagger Wagon” to still be in effect, a great vehicle. But for many, the word minivan has too many negative connotations. And that’s why we’ve seen a huge upsurge of three-row SUV’s, from the large and princely Kia Telluride and Hyundai Pallisade, to smaller models, where that 3rd row is pretty much for occasional use. And one of our favorites of the occasional 3rd row SUVs is the Mazda CX-9. It may give you bumped knees in row #3, but it gives you back so much more! Let’s take a …

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2022 GMC Canyon AT4 Review

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Radiant in Red! The 2022 GMC Canyon AT4 is nearing the end of its life. GM is planning to release an all new Colorado/Canyon duo in 2023, but how does the 2022 stack up to current competition? Outside Despite being near the end of a generation the 2022 GMC Canyon AT4 doesn’t look outdated. The front end is big and bold with an aggressive dark chrome grill. Going with the AT4 brings you some off-road styling that is also functional. The front bumper curves up at the edges to allow more clearance in front of the tires. Bright LED headlights …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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2022 Toyota Sienna XLE review by Ben Lewis

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Minivans always seem to be a topic of discussion. We know many a SUV driver who wouldn’t be caught dead in one. And we know many minivan drivers who wouldn’t own anything else. Part of this is a hangover from the early days of the little van, being a very functional box, but really be devoid of any style. Toyota’s Sienna has always been a fine product, and in the previous generation, the “Swagger Wagon” add campaign gave some needed cache to the vehicle. Introduced last year, an all-new Sienna takes a major step in style, performance, and technology – …

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Nissan’s 2022 Armada, The Patrol for America

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Nissan Armada, The Patrol for America 2022 Armada Driving Having recently come off of a makeover in 2021, the 2022 Armada remains largely unchanged. The 5.6-liter V8 puts out 400 horsepower and 413 foot-pounds of torque. The V8 is extremely smooth and produces a stunning sound when run up to its redline. While many Nissan vehicles now have excellent 9-speed automatics, the Armada is still using a 7-speed. The 9-speed offers a significantly lower first gear, which affects launching from a stop while towing. Other than that, the 7-speed isn’t missing out on much. Nissan doesn’t try to hide the …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness Review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Subaru Outback Wilderness and loved the added capability and looks that the manufacturer gave its popular SUV/Wagon – doing what many owners have been doing for a while but giving it the factory goodness to raise it all to a new level. So, it only makes sense that Subie did the same idea to the popular Forester – so is it equally successful, even more successful, or maybe a marketing flop? Let’s take a look! The Wild Blue   The Forester Wilderness makes a strong first impression, thanks to our tester’s available exclusive Geyser Blue paint. …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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2022 Acura TLX Type S Review by Ben Lewis

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We loved the all-new Acura TLX A-Spec we tested recently. Acura has been on a roll lately, and the TLX is now bigger, badder, and is the whole package when it comes to style, performance and technology. But like the Kia K5 – also a sweetheart of a sport sedan – the manufacturer waited to introduce a more powerful, more driver focused version. In this case, the TLX Type S – bringing the performance Type S moniker back after many years of hibernation. So, with Honda’s luxury division building a TLX to thrill like never before, we were excited to …

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

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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 …

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2022 QX60 Beach

2022 Infiniti QX60 Review

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Infiniti QX60: A Luxury Pathfinder With the release of the new Pathfinder it was all but set in stone that the 2022 QX60 would be all new as well. Both vehicles use the same platform, but has Inifniti done enough to set the QX60 apart from its sister vehicle? 2022 QX60 Exterior While the R53 Pathfinder has sharp and boxy lines, the QX60 is smooth by comparison.. From the front we see a large open grill with additional faux brake cooling vents on the sides. The active LED headlights are very bright, slim, and slant upward as they move rearward. …

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

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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 …

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2022 Honda Civic Sport Touring Hatchback Review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the all-new 2022 Honda Civic sedan and loved it. Classy and upgraded inside out with great performance. What’s not to love? So, Honda tells us they now have a new hatchback model, with more utility and – hold on to your hats – an available manual transmission! Time for another road test. Haven’t We Met Before? The hatchback is a near-twin to the sedan – no problem there, we like the sedan’s grown-up look. Like the sedan, the front end has a very Accord-like look, with a prominent forward grille, featuring LED headlights with a cool signature …

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

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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, …

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Maserati Celebrates Racing History With Trio Of MC Edition Models

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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 …

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

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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 …

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2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz 2.5T Limited review by Ben Lewis

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We were really excited to test the new Hyundai Santa Cruz. While and SUV-type vehicle with a truck bed isn’t a new idea, – the original Subaru Brat, the Subaru Baja and even the Honda Ridgeline – fit the bill, It seems like a great time for this kind of vehicle. So, let’s take a cruise in the Santa Cruz! What Today’s Truck is Wearing Well, let’s start with saying we love the looks. Built off the Tucson SUV platform, there are a lot of similarities – no problem there, that’s borrowing from one of Hyundai’s best designs. Up front …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 Limited

2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 Limited Review

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Not updated For 2022! While GMC will have a mid-life refresh for the Sierra 1500 coming soon, this is not that truck. Until things start to settle down from the pandemic we get this “AT4 Limited” trim stop gap model, which is basically from 2021. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not an excellent truck! The Overview GMC sent us a 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 Limited with the 3.0 turbo diesel for our review. This engine has 277 horsepower and 460 foot-pounds of torque. Power is sent through a 10-speed auto, 2-speed transfer case with an auto 4wd setting, and …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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

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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. …

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

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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 …

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2022 Subaru BRZ Limited review by Ben Lewis

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For enthusiasts on a budget, one of the most awaited new sports cars is the 2022 Subaru BRZ, and it’s twin the 2022 Toyota GR86.  It’s easy to see why, the original BRZ and then-named Toyota FR-S, came out in 2013 and were aimed directly at drivers with a front-engine, rear drive powertrain, a low-slung Subaru boxer powerplant, an equally low-slung design, a superb driving experience and a very reasonable price. Think of it as a Miata competitor with a permanent metal roof, a hatchback with two tiny rear seats, and you get the picture. But the little coupe punches …

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

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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 …

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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve 4×4 review by Ben Lewis

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Big is back! Especially in the SUV marketplace. If you’ve tried to buy a Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade, you’ll know that capable 3-row models are hot, hot, hot. And into the fray comes the new Grand Cherokee L, made all the grander by being larger, more luxurious, and offering that highly desired 3rd row for the first time. So how grand is the new Grand Cherokee? Let’s take a look. Bigger but Familiar A quick look, and you know instantly this is a Grand Cherokee. Jeep says the proportions of the L were inspired by the original Wagoneer – …

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2022 Kia Niro EV Review by Ben Lewis

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We’re all pretty familiar with makers like Tesla and RIVIAN, showcases of what EV vehicles can do. And while they are great vehicles, they are expensive. If you want to own the hearts and minds of regular folks, you’ll need something more affordable. Enter the Kia Niro EV. The Niro has been one Kia’s most popular crossovers for a while now, and being offered in Hybrid and plug-in Hybrid versions, it’s a showcase for advanced power tech. But is the full-on EV model the one to make you give up your need for gasoline? Let’s take a look. Modern and …

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

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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 …

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

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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 …

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Cadillac InnerSpace Concept Previews Luxury Filled Autonomus Future

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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 …

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

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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 …

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Stellantis Officially Unveils Airflow Concept, Promises New Future For Chrysler

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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 …

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2021 Lexus RC 350 F SPORT review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested and loved the all-new Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance, with a massively powerful and sonorous 5.0-liter V8. It was a fantastic sport sedan. But maybe you like the svelte lines of a coupe. And don’t really need all that power, but still want something quick and sporty – and with all that luxury and goodness of Toyota’s premium division? Well have we got a car for you! The Lexus RC 350 F SPORT. Let’s take a look. Sporty, Smooth and Sophisticated The RC has been with us for several years now, yet it still turns head …

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

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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 …

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