ROAD TEST REVIEWS

Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota Prius Prime – An Enduring Icon

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The Toyota Prius has been an enduring icon of the company’s hybrid technology with the vehicle being a spearhead model in showing that hybrid technology can be an integral part of the driving and ownership experience. The Prime model is the plug-in version and the recent updates that the standard Prius received have helped the Prime transform into a potent value for buyers if they know where to look. Prime SE focuses on value Our tester arrived as a base SE model with Toyota attempting to market this model as a budget-friendly way to enter the PHEV ranks. Unlike its …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

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The Mazda CX-50 has proven to be a very compelling SUV entry for Mazda with the 50 catering to customers who want capability and Mazda style, but don’t need the large size that often comes with a larger CX-70 or 90. However, the lone omission in the CX-50’s flexible arsenal of tricks was a hybrid model to help it tune in with a resurgence in demand for both hybrids and their plug-in counterparts. But is the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid the right tool for the job? Toyota powertrain defines partnership   Mazda is one of several automakers that have entered …

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2024 Buick Envista ST Review: Not Quite Luxury, But That’s Okay.

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Buick has long been one of those brands that confuses me. It’s a brand without an identity, with a product strategy best defined as “throw something at the wall and see what sticks.” And sure, Buick has some absolute bangers in its portfolio—especially the GSX, GNX and my personal favorite, the Regal TourX—but these are notable because they simply focused on being awesome rather than conform to brand norms. Throughout my lifetime, Buick has been positioned as a near-luxury brand. An intermediate step between Chevy and Cadillac. But in my personal experience, Buick never quite managed to hit that mark. …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL

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Volkswagen’s Jetta compact sedan has always been a consistent sales generator for the German car giant. This is even as SUVs and CUVs expanded their presence in the market which also put the squeeze on compact cars in the process. The company recently gave the Jetta its most comprehensive update yet for 2025 with VW sharpening the car’s good traits while also addressing some flaws as it attempts to bring balance and newfound poise to the Jetta. Sharper styling enhances Jetta’s personality It’s important to note that since this is merely a mid-cycle update and not an outright reboot, the …

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Road Test Followup – 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV – Is It Still Stuck In The Middle?

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The 2025 Mazda CX-70 is fighting in a segment where SUV buyers expect perfection and a distinct touch when it comes to their two-row SUV purchase. The CX-70 shares alot of its bones with the bigger Mazda CX-90 and while this helps provide the model with a solid platform to build off of, some have also accused it of being stuck in the middle not only in regards to its source material, but also in the broader segment as a whole. But is it still stuck in the middle of the pack, or has the CX-70 finally emerged from the …

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Road Test Follow Up – 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 – Is This EV Still The Golden Ticket For Buyers?

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Volkswagen’s EV blitz was supposed to be a blitz that would help make the German car giant a leader in the EV wars. However, the company has stumbled off the starting blocks and it’s still navigating rough waters as issues in its home market have the potential of distracting it from its broader goals. However, there are also signs that the pages are turning too with the Volkswagen ID.Buzz bringing some much-needed retro flavor to the futuristic EV segment. In the meantime, the company still has to rely on the venerable ID. 4 for a broader influx of sales but …

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Review: The 2024 Ford Mach-E GT Rally Is A Do-It-All EV Built To Hoon

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As much as I love the comforts of living in a beach-side urban metropolis, there are times when I find it frustrating. Sure, there’s the high cost of everything and the endless traffic in every direction, but I’m not particularly bothered by those. My frustration comes when I get a car like this: the 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Rally. This is a ride inspired by rally racing and comes equipped with the types of upgrades that would suggest that it’s a rowdy good time on loose dirt surfaces—and I’m a rally fan who longs to practice those “lift, turn, …

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5 Things to Know About the 2024 Kia Forte GT

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1. It’s doing a farewell tour Kia has announced that the all-new K4 will replace the Forte GT, so if you want one, 2024 is your last chance. 2. It’s got the goods With a turbo 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder, manual or DCT automatic transmission and sport-tuned suspension, the Forte GT is well equipped for driving fun. 3. It’s old-school cool (part one) While most modern Kia and Hyundai models have dual digital displays, the Forte GT still serves up handsome analog gauges. 4. It’s old-school cool (part two)The conservative lines and large alloy wheels still look good – a direction Honda …

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2024 Kia Forte GT review by Ben Lewis

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We see a lot of bands and performers doing farewell tours. Last chance to enjoy the experience and say a fond goodbye. Well cars can do that, too. And our latest tester is a fine example. Kia recently introduced the all-new K4, to slot below the K5, naturally and the 4 will replace the Forte sedan. That’s kind of bittersweet for us – the new 4 is stylish, a bit larger and roomier and looks more in line with the brand’s latest direction, including everything from the EV6 to the Niro and more. It’s bittersweet because we really liked the …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Lexus UX300h – Is This Hybrid Being Squeezed Out?

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Lexus’s growing hybrid lineup is shining a spotlight on Toyota’s broader green vehicle strategy with the company wisely focusing on expanding their presence in the hybrid sector alongside EVs. While the bigger RX and NX models have often been considered the collective faces of Lexus’s efforts in the CUV side of the business when it comes to hybrids, it can be easy to forget all about the tiny UX. The UX was supposed to be a compact offering for buyers who needed hybrid technology in a small package that could navigate tight city streets. However, unlike its brand teammates, the …

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2024 Lexus NX 450h+ F SPORT review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Toyota RAV4, and we came away impressed, this is the best-selling compact SUV in the market, and it’s probably the most competitive segment out there. Aside from that, Toyota knows how to spread the love around – the Lexus NX shares much of the mechanicals, and the goodness with its sibling, and it’s a great choice in a compact luxury SUV. So, we jumped at the chance to take another bite at the apple with the 2024 Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport, the plug-in hybrid that’s the most powerful and yet most efficient of the line …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota bZ4X – X Marks The Spot

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Toyota may still be focusing the bulk of its efforts on hybrid vehicles but the Japanese auto giant has also talked about expanding its presence into the BEV market. One of these models is the 2024 Toyota bZ4X and while it has a name that will certainly make it a mouthful for you ti say when trying to explain to your friends why you bought one, the bZ4X is also trying to show that the Japanese auto giant can talk the talk in this lucrative segment. But does it have enough to stand out from a growing field of EV …

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2024 Toyota Sequoia Limited review by Ben Lewis

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Don’t go thinking that EV’s are it. In the marketplace 3-row full-size SUV’’s are hot. From the Kia Telluride to the Mazda CX-90, there’s something for everyone looking for a big, tough, spacious vehicle. And one name that’s been around is the Toyota Sequoia, sharing a platform with the Tundra pickup, the big Toy has a well-earned reputation for capability and ruggedness. Now the manufacturer’s adding a heavy ladle full of luxury as well. Is the Sequoia the right SUV for you? Let’s take a look. Big and Bold The first thing you notice – the Sequoia has presence. This …

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2024 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD Review: Surprisingly Great For The Family Roadtrip

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This obviously the first Hyundai Kona review to be posted to this site. But as it’s a car (crossover? SUV?) that’s seemed to charm everyone with its blend of style and practicality, I couldn’t resist having a go in one myself. But to be honest, when I found that my loan would fall on the same week as a family road trip, I was more than a bit nervous. Hyundai’s Kona has always been small—perhaps a single step above entry-level. And while my road trip compatriots would be limited to my wife and our one small child, they both like …

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2024 Kia EV6 GT review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the 640 horse, Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and marveled at its jaw-dropping performance. But there’s another super-hot EV in the Kia/Hyundai family, and it’s the Kia EV6 GT. It’s a little more Grand Touring than out -and-out sports car, but with 576 horsepower, it’s got plenty of thrills to serve up. So, what’s Kia’s performance flagship like? Let’s check it out! Sleek Style Any trim of the EV6 is a handsome vehicle, and it’s interesting that for its performance flagship, Kia has kept things subtle – You’d be hard pressed to know this is the GT versus …

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2024 Acura ZDX A-Spec Review: Teamwork Makes the EV Dream Work

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As the saying goes, what’s old is new again. Case in point: the new Acura ZDX A Spec. It’s not that the vehicle itself is old—it’s more that the way this vehicle came to market. 1996 was a year chock-full of optimism, with Americans everywhere doing the Macarena as they poured their life savings into the can’t-miss investment vehicle known as Beanie Babies. Cheap gas allowed sales of the newly defined SUV market to surge. Everyone, everywhere, was scrambling to get into one of these fancy-ish trucks, and perhaps more importantly, OEMs the world over were scrambling to get their …

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

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The Volkswagen GTI (aka Golf GTI if you’re willing to travel back into the past) is a hot hatch that has withstood the ravages of time and has always been one of the few performance vehicles on the market to offer buyers budget-friendly performance and a manual transmission to row through the gears. However, Volkswagen is changing the status quo and confirmed that the 2024 model will be the last year buyers can get a manual before Volkswagen pitches it in favor of an automatic. However, the company is not letting the stick go with a whimper, but is instead …

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2024 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring Review – Small In Size. Big On Luxury.

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While Lincoln’s Corsair is technically a compact SUV—it’s based on the similarly compact Ford Escape—thanks to some clever packaging and design tricks, it feels a lot bigger than it actually is. The specific ride you see here is the Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring—the one with the plug-in hybrid electric powertrain—and it just so happens to be my ride for the week. It’s deceptively small As is the case with all of Lincoln’s current vehicles, the Corsair is classically handsome. There’s a simplicity and restraint to the traditional two-box design that’s pleasing to the eye. And while I love some of …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Lexus RX450h+ – The Balanced Hybrid

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The Lexus RX is the bread and butter that helps fuel the luxury brand’s sales machine with the RX rapidly morphing into a vital cog in the broader sales machine. The updated RX made its debut a short while back and while the odd exterior styling caused some controversy, it ultimately did little to stunt the model’s sales. Lexus is also out to prove that it’s not afraid to venture into new territory with the RX and used this iteration of the crossover to expand its presence into the PHEV market. The 2024 RX 450h+ is attempting to help push …

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5 Things to Know About the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

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  It’s incredibly powerful. The numbers are jaw dropping. 641 horsepower and 565 lb. ft. of torque. For those playing at home, the Porsche 911 GT3 serves up (only!) 502 horsepower.     It’s incredibly fast. 0-60 mph comes up in 3.2 seconds. That’s about the same as that Porsche 911 GT3!   It thinks it’s a gas-powered car. (Sort of) One of the great thrills in the 5 N – press the N button on the steering wheel and a tachometer shows up on the gauge display, and the sound of a sporty 4-cylinder engine is pumped in. It …

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2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N review by Ben Lewis

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If you’re new to Hyundai, you might have not noticed their “N” division. It’s pretty simple like BMW’s M division (and the watered-down M Sport models), The N is the Korean maker’s high-performance arm. (And like BMW, Hyundai also has an “N-Line” trim that’s sporty, but many levels below a true N). We recently tested a Hyundai Elantra N model and found it exhilarating fun in a small sedan package. So, when they told us they were going to create an N model for the popular Ioniq 5 EV, we were doubly intrigued. So, does it thrill? Let’s take a …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Nissan Rogue Rock Creek – Trailbusting in Style

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When one looks at the Nissan Rogue, you would be hard-pressed to think that the urban-focused crossover would be a good tool of choice for serious trail running. However, Nissan knows that in order for it to get a bigger slice of the SUV market, it has to explore other avenues and segments to enhance profits. That includes the off-road market with the Rock Creek moniker serving as the bridge between the hardcore PRO-4X and the standard lineup. The Pathfinder and the Armada are bringing Rock Creek versions to their rosters and the smaller Rogue has now joined the family …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota Supra 45th Anniversary Edition

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It can be hard to believe that the Toyota Supra is 45 years old. While most buyers are familiar with the current generation model and its 1990s era ancestor, it can be easy to forget that the Supra actually had its start in the 1980s before gaining widespread popularity a decade later. Toyota is eager to celebrate with the all-new 45th Anniversary Edition Supra. This Supra promises to help the Toyota celebrate its birthday in style but is it a compelling enough purchase for enthusiasts? Supra is stylish in orange With the bulk of the current generation Supra carrying over …

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Road Test-Review – 2023 Honda Passport Trailsport – Holding Down The Fort

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Honda is preparing a new Passport which will be making its way to dealerships to bring the fight to rivals like the Ford Bronco Sport and the Toyota RAV4. But before the revamped model can forge its own path, the company has to rely on the aging outgoing model to hold down the fort for it at its dealerships. The first-generation Passport has proven to be a capable steed in the past, but does it have enough vigor to maintain a solid state of affairs before it hands the reigns to its replacement? Passport’s exterior styling is still a weakness …

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5 things to know about the 2025 Honda Ridgeline:

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  We recently tested the 2025 Honda Ridgeline, and came away very impressed. Here’s a quick take:   1. It rides like an SUV.Since it’s based on the same unibody chassis of the Odyssey, instead of the separate frame like most trucks, the ride is smoother and quieter, and handling is excellent too. 2. There’s a dedicated off-road modelIntroduced last year there’s a Ridgeline TrailSport model, featuring an off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires and steel underbody protection. It was even tuned and tested in the Imperial Dunes in Glamis, California, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 3. No big changes for …

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2025 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition review by Ben Lewis

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We all know how popular SUVs are. But, if you’re looking for the real best sellers, you have to look at pickup trucks. For 2023, the #1 seller was the Ford F Series– over 750,000 sold. #2 the Chevy Silverado– 543,000, and #3 Dodge Ram – 449,000. (For those of you playing at home, #4 was the Toyota RAV4 at a commendable 443,000!) So yes, a lot of buyers still want a truck. But a lot of them don’t want the compromises you find in the truck world, like a harsh ride, non-car-like handling. For them, the Honda Ridgeline – …

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2024 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label Review – A Global Take on Modern Luxury

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American luxury. Built in China. Two statements, seemingly disconnected, that when put together describe the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus. But if we’re being honest, it’s probably more accurate to say that this newest Lincoln shows Americans the Chinese take on luxury. Take a quick look at Chinese car brands like Zeekr or Xpeng and you’ll see luxury vehicles that are defined by technology. Beyond the requisite electrified powertrains, these rides go all-in on features like animated exterior lighting, AI-powered driving assistants, and—most importantly—acres and acres of interior screens. It should come as no surprise, then, that this latest Nautilus—and its massive …

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2025 Acura RDX A-Spec Advance review by Ben Lewis

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We’ve always liked Acura. Honda’s luxury brand gives you the premium auto vibe of the expensive imports, yet manages to keep the pricing good sense of Honda. So, when Acura announced an updated 2025 RDX crossover/SUV we were thrilled at the chance to give it a go. Aggressive and Bold Like the TLX and MDX models we recently tested, Acura is taking the already sporty models and giving them an extra “bam!” of spiciness that’s really eye catching. Your first glace is a good one – the front end receives a new frameless Diamond Pentagon grille and more aggressive grille …

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

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Aston Martin’s DB lineup of vehicles has become an iconic symbol of the company’s long yet complex history. Through the highs and the lows, the DB name persisted and it was always about delivering the best blend of luxury and performance to buyers looking for a distinct flavor in their GT purchase.  The Aston Martin DB12 is the latest in this long line of GT coupes and Aston Martin says that this DB is the best yet even as the company made some tough changes to help the DB shine in an era where tightening fuel economy standards and changing …

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2024 Toyota RAV4 Off-Road review by Ben Lewis

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When you’re on a roll, you’re on a roll. Well, the Toyota RAV4 has been the best-selling compact SUV for the last six years. That’s impressive because it’s one of the most competitive segments in the marketplace. Does the ’24 model have what it takes to stay as the king of the hill? Let’s take a look! In The Army Now At first glance, it’s hard not to notice our tester’s newly available Army Green paint. We love it on our TRD Off-Road model – it just makes sense for an outdoorsy-focused vehicle. It’s also a rugged looking ride, Up …

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

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While we know it’s a world of SUV’s and crossovers, there’s still lots of people that still like the traditional 4-door sedan. That’s why there’s an all-new Camry and an all-new Accord. Toyota and Honda knows there’s still gold in them there hills. But we have noticed that both of those models are now designed with frugal economy in mind, over good old-fashioned fun. That’s why we’re excited to be testing the 2024 Hyundai Sonata. Not only has it gotten a refresh inside and out to keep it current, but it also hasn’t forgotten the enthusiast, and offers a tasty …

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Review: The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE Plugs In To Value

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What do you do if your unique selling proposition is no longer unique? Well, if you’re Toyota, the answer is: you double down. It’s hard to believe that Toyota’s Prius has been around for almost 30 years now. While not the first-ever hybrid (that honor goes to the Lohner-Porsche Electromobile of 1900), it was the second-gen Prius (launched in 2003) that first launched eco-chic into the public consciousness, and in doing so forever cemented its place in popular culture. Today, in 2024, Toyota continues to go all-in on perfecting the hybrid technology first launched with Prius. These days the entire …

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Lexus Ups The Stakes With 2025 Lexus LX700h and Overtrail

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The rugged Lexus LX luxury SUV has always been the star pupil in the brand’s SUV family when it comes to delivering the best in both luxury and off-road capability. While the big SUV has proven to be capable in both categories, Lexus has never electrified the model in the two-plus decades that it has been in production with the brand preferring to let its big V8 do the talking before it was axed for a smaller V6. That’s now changing with the unveiling of the all-new 2025 Lexus LX700h which not only gives the model a hybrid option for …

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2025 Kia Niro EV Wave review by Ben Lewis

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While we’re fans of EVs – if they’re right for you – the sad truth is that they can be expensive, often much more than their gas or hybrid siblings. But if you’re interested in an EV but don’t want to break the bank, there still are some great choices for you. And one of the best is the Kia Niro. So, let’s take a look at what you get! Smart and Fresh We’ve always liked the Kia Niro. One of the first hybrid crossover/tall hatches, even before it was an EV it had plenty of style, performance and amenities …

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Road Test Review – 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N – The Champ Is Here

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The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has proven to be a proverbial sales smash for Hyundai with the compact EV SUV getting awards and praise wherever it goes. However, the standard Ioniq 5 is not exactly known for its performance manners with the model preferring to quietly go through the motions of the daily commute with little to no fanfare. Hyundai is now committed to ensuring that the SUV has some pep in its step and while a rugged XRT model is eventually coming to dealerships, the company is shining the spotlight on track-ready performance with the 2025 Ioniq 5 N. But …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor – The Ranger Gets The Dino Treatment

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Ford has made it clear that it intends to boost its presence in the performance vehicle market. While the bulk of that statement is focused on the Ford Mustang, it also includes the Raptor lineup with the company now adding the Ranger into the fold in an attempt to get midsize pickup buyers who want off-road performance but aren’t ready to make the move up into a bigger F-150 model. But is the Ranger Raptor the perfect solution for buyers looking for the best of Raptor fun in a smaller package? Ranger Raptor hits the gym When we last saw …

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Road Test Review- 2025 Nissan Kicks SR – This Kicks Still Has The Stuff

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Nissan knew that it was on to something when it replaced the funky Juke crossover with the Kicks. The Kicks was supposed to appeal to younger buyers with the exterior styling shedding some of the Juke’s funky lines for a more traditional look that still came loaded with dynamic lines and creases.  The Kicks has proven to be a strong seller for the company with the SUV rapidly becoming a key player in Nissan’s sales machine. That was evident when Nissan confirmed that it sold over 53,000 of them in 2023. The outgoing 2024 model appears to be on track …

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2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 1958 review by Ben Lewis

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As we noted recently with the test  of the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe and Lexus GX550, big blocky SUV’s are back. The rugged, squared-off looks really are resonating with buyers, and the truckish, ultra-capable vibe is catching fire. So, it makes sense that one of the original boxy SUVs would return to its roots, and we were thrilled when we found out we’d be testing the all-new Toyota Land Cruiser. While the Land Cruiser has evolved over the years to a large luxury SUV, with excellent off-road capability, it also became quite expensive. With the all-new model Toyota promises the …

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2025 Mini Countryman S ALL4 review by Ben Lewis

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It’s big news at Mini with an all-new Countryman! We’ve always been fans of the Mini brand. Since 2003, it’s brought charm, style and joy to buyers in a cheeky, fun-size package. Along the way, (and along with just about every other brand) vehicles have gotten larger. And now we have the all-new 2025 Mini Countryman, a small SUV that is the largest the brand has made. So, while it’s the biggest and most powerful Mini ever, does it still have that Mini charm? Let’s find out! Bigger, Bolder, Cheekier Even from the first glance you know this is something …

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

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Does anyone here remember the original Infiniti FX35? Launched more than 20 years ago, it was a bold statement from Nissan’s luxury brand and was considered a radical new take on the SUV. A crossover before crossovers were even a thing, the original FX took the engine and rear-wheel drive platform from a G35/350Z, gave it a hatch and some ground clearance, and wrapped it in a shell that was clearly more car than truck. It was a tall luxury sports sedan with some added utility, and its success is directly responsible for the luxury vehicle market as we know …

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

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The Subaru BRZ and its mechanical twin the Toyota GR86 have had a long history with the two coupes providing buyers an entry-level performance alternative that can deliver the core essentials but without going overboard in the pursuit of performance and the seemingly accompanying rise in prices. It doesn’t hurt either that the BRZ in particular looks very stylish and does a good job of delivering the goods when it comes to showing off its personality. However, the quest for performance is never-ending, and the company is always open to finding new ways to build on its performance DNA. That …

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2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV Premium Plus review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Acura MDX Type S and were impressed with the 3-row SUV’s style, performance and room. It seems like 3-row SUV’s are big again. But they’re not for everyone. So were very interested to hear about the all-new Mazda CX-70, which looks to be a 5-passenger version of the three-row CX-90 which we love. So, does the lack of a third row change our opinion? Let’s take a look! A Bit More Muscle While they certainly look like siblings, Mazda did take some effort to make the CX-70 look different, and we especially like the front end. …

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

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It’s easy to say that words have meanings, but that ignores the reality that words are in an ever-changing state of flux. Those of you old enough to remember the sitcoms of the 1980s are familiar with the trope of the out-of-touch old-timer pondering if a kid’s use of the word “bad” actually meant “good,” or if said kid meant things are bad-bad. And let’s not get into a debate as to whether or not no cap, fr fr or skibidi toilet even qualify as language. What I’m trying to get at, I guess, is that luxury–both as a word …

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

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The Lexus LC continues to be one of the most underrated GTs on the market today. While the V8-powered Lexus often blends into the background when compared with rivals from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and even higher-grade models like the Maserati GranCabrio and its coupe counterpart the GranTurismo. It has inner charms that beg to be explored if you’re willing to get to know it better. That includes the 2024 LC 500 Bespoke Series which adds a pinch of custom flavor to the LC experience. Copper Crest paint draws plenty of stares to the LC The 2024 Lexus LC lineup doesn’t change …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail – The Billy Goat Is Back

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Lexus is typically known for being a top-selling luxury brand with the brand making great strides since it originally appeared in the U.S. in 1989. When it’s not coddling passengers in luxury with their products, the brand is also known for occasionally exploring new segments and trends. That included the off-road segment with the original GX starting life as a slightly less capable version of the Toyota 4Runner before finding their purpose on the trail in later years. The 2024 GX 550 attempts to solidify its trail credentials with a wave of new updates that bring more poise and capability …

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2025 Acura MDX Type S Advance review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Acura TLX Type S, and were impressed how Acura continuously improves their models – even when they’re already pretty darn good. So, when we heard that the 2025 3-row MDX SUV was going to get some meaningful improvements, we jumped at the chance to drive one of our favorite luxury SUVs. After all, it’s not only Acura’s best-selling vehicle, but also the best-selling 3-row luxury SUV! Go for the Bold On the outside, the MDX gets a tougher look, especially notable in our sporty Type S model. Up front, there’s a more aggressive fascia, starting with …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Mazda CX-30 Carbon Turbo – Still The Fun CUV

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The small CUV segment is swelling with nameplates as multiple automakers attempt to inject their own form of identity and purpose into a segment commonly defined by practicality and putting the actual art of driving very low on the priority list. While this certainly won’t bother the large bulk of family buyers that crave passenger space, it might leave some enthusiasts who were forced to sacrifice their sporty two-door coupe or performance sedan for the greater good feel left out. Mazda is attempting to change that with the Mazda CX-30 which attempts to bridge the gap and deliver some of …

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

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Ready to make new friends and fans of EVs! It seems like there are two camps in EV. One likes it completely different from gas-powered vehicles, aimed at those who like to step up to the newest latest tech. They want their Jetson mobile, and they want it now. We’d put vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and 6, Tesla and such in that camp. But if you’re really going to get more traditional buyers out of their gas-powered vehicles, it needs to be easier. Friendlier. Familiar even. And one of those leading the way has been Audi, and with …

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2024 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD – Is The RAV4 Still A Player In The SUV Segment?

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The Toyota RAV4 is celebrating its 30th birthday this year and while the RAV4 has used the bulk of those three decades focusing on providing the fundamentals with cargo capacity, passenger comfort, and fuel economy all being top priorities. The RAV4 is continuing to soldier on with minor updates for the 2024 model year but is this light approach to updates causing the established veteran to lose ground to SUV upstarts? RAV4 styling still has rugged appeal The exterior styling of the RAV4 continues to be unchanged for the new model year with Limited models like our tester still attempting …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid XLE – The Budget Fuel Sipper

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The Toyota Corolla may be relishing in its recent role as a performance superstar when it comes to the GR Corolla, but long before Toyota chose to give the Corolla neck-snapping acceleration and corner-carving abilities it was better known for being the modern poster child for sensible commuting with fuel economy and value being the key pillars of its success. These pillars are attempting to bestow this same magic onto the 2024 Corolla Hybrid but is it all enough to help it continue winning over budget-minded customers? Corolla’s exterior paints practical image At first glance, the exterior styling of the …

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2025 Toyota Camry XSE Review by Ben Lewis

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We don’t know what’s in the water cooler at Toyota, but we like it! Lately, Toyota has been on a roll with some exciting stylish vehicles – and some of them in the most surprising places. Take the all-new Prius, it’s gorgeous! Yes, a prius. And the new Land Cruiser; going back to a classic squared-off look that’s retro yet amazing. So, we can’t say we’re stunned that the carmaker did a major refresh on the Camry, but when you consider that it’s the best-selling sedan for the last 22 years, you’ve got to admire the moxie to mix things …

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2025 Lincoln Navigator Gets Reboot, New Tech and Simplified Trim Ladder Spearhead Updates

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Lincoln says that the Lincoln Navigator is the center of gravity when it comes luxury and technology. However, the model has also played second fiddle to rivals in recent years especially its archnemesis the Cadillac Escalade. Lincoln is out to reorient the status quo and has formally unveiled the 2025 Navigator which raises the bar on styling and technology while also bringing several innovative features to the model for the first time ever. Exterior styling brings Navigator in step with current design language  The current generation Navigator has been on sale for several years now and is one of the …

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Road Test Followup – 2024 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy – Luxury Thy Name Is Hyundai

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It’s harder than it looks offering buyers an SUV that’s the perfect blend of comfort, utility, and value but the 2024 Hyundai Palisade is one of the few that comes the closest to putting the three together in a composed yet balanced package. The Palisade got a significant revamp that saw the SUV get more polish and poise to match its unique character. But does this extend to the Calligraphy model as it fights for sales in the near-luxury sub-segment? We wanted to find out. Palisade Calligraphy looks the part now When we last saw the Palisade Calligraphy, we couldn’t …

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2025 Subaru Legacy Touring XT review by Ben Lewis

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Think of it as a farewell tour. While the Legacy has been with us since 1989 and is the longest running nameplate or the brand, the carmaker has announced that the 2025 model will be the last for the sedan. So, is it going out with a bang, or just fading off into the distance? Handsome and Reserved While the running gear of the Legacy sedan is almost identical to the Outback Wagon, where the Outback is wearing outdoorsy LL Bean duds, the Legacy is a traditional sedan. Which is not to say frumpy. Up front, there’s the familiar trapezoidal …

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

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The lovable 2-seat sports car is better than ever! Trends come and go, and we’ve seen a bunch of them, compact SUVs, 3-row SUVs, EVs, full-size trucks, compact trucks, etc.…And we don’t mind the spice that comes with new and exciting directions. But we also like things that stand the test of time, especially things that bring us joy. And since 1990, the Mazda Miata has been the small, affordable sports car designed to delight driving enthusiasts. Every time we get into a Miata it reminds us why we love to drive, and why we love sports cars. So, when …

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Road Test Follow up – 2024 Mazda CX-90 Premium Plus – Is It Still The Segment Disruptor?

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It’s out with the old and in with the new at Mazda as the company prepares for a massive shift into SUVs with a slight detour into electrification. One prominent example of this in action is the all-new Mazda CX-90. The CX-90 is Mazda’s newest flagship and it certainly made waves when we had the chance to drive it out in California. The SUV had an interior that trumped many of its rivals, and the 3.3-liter inline-six allowed it to finally move on from its troubled CX-9 roots and into a new arena of performance. With the CX-90 now having …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Genesis G70 AWD 2.5T Sport Prestige – Still A Contender

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The sport sedan segment has always been dominated by the Germans with the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, and the Mercedes C-Class being the default trio that buyers were directed to. Genesis attempted to shake things up with the first-generation G70 sedan. The G70 had the look, luxury, and the technology to bring the fight to the Germans but it was dogged by some early teething pains and a manual transmission that was the bane of enthusiasts everywhere. The 2024 model is attempting to add more polish to the model, but is this G70 the model that finally shifts the nameplate …

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2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 2.5T AWD review by Ben Lewis

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2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 2.5T AWD review by Ben Lewis The Hyundai Santa Fe is all-new for 2024, and it’s a gamechanger! We recently tested the Lexus GX 550 and we noted that it’s part of the new trend in SUV design – big, boxy and bold. And while we loved that Lexus, at $70,000-plus, it’s not for the average buyer. But fear not, Hyundai’s got your back with the all-new Santa Fe. Let’s unpack the box! Stunning Looks While the Santa Fe was the first SUV the carmaker brought to market over 20 years ago, it has never …

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

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The 2024 Hyundai Sonata received a major mid-cycle refresh as the company surprised some observers by keeping the Sonata around even as it faced growing sales pressure from SUV and CUV models. This refresh brought plenty of updates inside and out and Hyundai even added more zest to the N-Line. But is the N-Line’s performance charms enough to allow it to stand out in a segment that’s still shrinking and losing ground to SUVs and CUVs? Sonata’s futuristic lines will draw plenty of stares The front fascia of the 2024 Sonata will be the first thing that many observers will …

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Road Test Followup – 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Limited AWD – The Sky’s The Limit For EV SUV

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Since its debut back in 2022, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 has emerged as a key lynchpin in Hyundai’s electrification plans with the SUV bringing futuristic style in a package that comes with an impressive degree of baked-in practicality. With the Ioniq 5 N just now entering the market, we wanted to find out if the standard 5 still had the chops to be a good gatekeeper model especially for buyers that are willing to trade in performance for more baked-in practicality. Pixels still reign supreme in Ioniq 5 The exterior styling of the Ioniq 5 continues to be a strong …

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2025 Ford Mavrick Lobo Brings Street Performance To The Maverick Family

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When Ford unveiled the 2025 Maverick, the company made it clear that the updated truck would continue to appeal to budget-minded customers looking for a sensible pickup offering. While we thought the range-topping Tremor was going to be the flagship for the Maverick lineup, it turns out that Ford had a surprise up its sleeve with the 2025 Maverick Lobo which brings the Maverick into the street performance segment. Lobo is styled for the street While the Maverick Lobo’s name doesn’t roll off the tongue quite as gracefully as the old SVT creations that defined Ford’s efforts in this arena. …

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Tula’s DMD System Promises to Blend Smoothness and Efficiency Into One Unified Package

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Tula Technology has earned praise and respect for its advanced vehicle propulsion technologies. While the firm got its start in ICE powerplants, the company found newfound vigor when it decided to go all-in on electrification with several new technologies that aim to enhance efficiency and livability. One way it’s attempting to do this is with its Dynamic Motor Drive System (DMD) which is a noticeable step up from Tula’s past efforts. How does the system measure up in the real world? DMD is a smooth operator To find out, Tula invited us to the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan …

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Road Test Review -2024 Toyota Sienna XSE Hybrid AWD – The Champ Is Here

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The 2024 Toyota Sienna Hybrid has attracted its fair share of honors thanks to not only its mild-mannered personality but also its fuel  economy with the van continuing to be the benchmark model in the segment when it comes to efficiency with Toyota gambling on making the Sienna entirely hybrid a few years ago. The Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Pacifica, and the Kia Carnival are all trying to dethrone the Toyota with the Carnival getting a major revamp that infused the van with with more technology, revamped styling, and a hybrid model of its own. With the competition rapidly closing in …

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2024 Lexus GX 550 review by Ben Lewis

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Tired of boring SUVs? Buckle up buttercup! The Lexus GX has sort of lived a dual life. When it was first introduced in 2002, most buyers saw a tall, luxurious SUV that was great for hauling the kids around or maybe a great road trip. But for those in the know, it was also a supremely capable off-road vehicle. But at the then-high prices, most weren’t likely to dirty one up. Well, things have changed, partly due to the pandemic, overlanding became a big thing – a really big thing – letting you get away from everyone and still have …

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

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

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

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

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Road Test Review – 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan S – Bargain Friendly Comfort

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In the SUV market, it can seem that luxury, technology, and bling have become the new normal with all three of these things contributing to the increased prices that you might see in the segment. However, for buyers who prefer a more functional experience, there are still a few options out there that can fit the bill. One of them is the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan S which attempts to bring some of Volkswagen’s core attributes into a more affordable package. But is the S a good gateway model into the brand? Or is it a few cards short of a …

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Road Test Follow Up – 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited – Is it Still a Disruptor?

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Hyundai wanted to disrupt the segment when it unveiled the Ioniq 6 electric sedan. Following on the heels of the Ioniq 5 SUV, the 6 was supposed to be a shot across the bow against rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and others. However, changing conditions in the EV market have given the Ioniq 6 additional challenges while its status as a sedan also causes it to be overshadowed by an increasing number of electrified SUV and CUV models. We wanted to find out if the 2024 Ioniq 6 Limited still had what it takes to be a potent disruptor …

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2024 Toyota Prius XLE review by Ben Lewis

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

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Road Test Review – 2024 Genesis GV60 – Genesis Attempts To Break EV Mold With GV60

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The Genesis GV60 is the brand’s attempt to break the mold in the EV segment. Combining futuristic styling with impressive amounts of range and technology, the compact CUV is supposed to be the spearhead into the broader segment for Genesis. However, recent slowdowns in growth and demand for EVs are making Genesis consider a strong push into hybrid vehicles. That said, the GV60 Magma is also showing a glimpse into what a potential performance model would look like for the brand and if the 2024 Genesis GV60 can help provide a solid enough foundation, it will help give the upcoming …

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2024 Subaru Impreza RS review by Ben Lewis

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While the Subaru Forester and Outback are the brand’s big sellers, for over 30 decades the entry-level Impreza has soldiered on, offering affordable AWD to loads of buyers.  And in 1998, the carmaker brought the RS model to market, offering a sporty step up. Eventually, that would grow into the WRX model enthusiasts love today. What’s nice is that Subaru hasn’t forgotten the driver on a budget, and recently re-introduced the RS. Time for a test drive! Sporty, yet Sensible On the outside, the RS takes the Impreza’s sensible 5-door hatchback and adds some spicy sauce. From the front, you …

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2024 Acura TLX Type S road test review by Ben Lewis

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

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2024 Volkswagen Golf R review by Ben Lewis

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

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2024 Lexus RZ 300e review by Ben Lewis

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Here’s an interesting little paradox for you. While the Japanese carmakers are happy to bring you the latest tech, they’ve almost to a fault been slow to bring EV tech to market. Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrids, sure – but full on EV’s, not so much. Well, maybe they know something we don’t, but they are now getting with the program, and EV vehicles from Mazda, Honda, Acura and Nissan (ok, they’ve been around thanks to the LEAF) are starting to show up. And now we can add Lexus to the fray with the all-new RZ EV lineup. So, we were …

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First Drive Review – 2024 Ineos Grenadier Trialmaster – Old-School SUV Charm in a Modern Wrapper

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The iconic old-school Land Rover Defender left some empty shoes to fill when it left U.S. shores. The rugged old-school SUV delivered massive amounts of capability and also created a small following among loyalists. When it left the U.S., it created a void, and while the revitalized Defender is doing an admirable job of restoring the nameplate’s luster in the U.S., hardcore Defender fans were still not pleased. One of these fans was Sir Jim Ratcliffe the CEO of the massive chemical conglomerate Ineos. When Land Rover refused to build a suitable replacement for the Defender, he embarked on a …

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2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited review by Ben Lewis

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If you’re interested in EV’s, Kia/Hyundai have to be on your map. We recently tested the fantastic Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, and found them to be delightful, capable and fun. They’re the kind of vehicles that convert gas vehicle owners to EV fans with one quick test drive! With the EV9 and Ioniq 5, you’re talking sensible crossover/suv type vehicles, but what if you want something more sedan, more sexy? Enter the Hyundai Ioniq 6. Sexy, indeed We really like the looks of the 6, but were pleasantly surprised by the loads of compliments our tester got. This …

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

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

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2024 VW TAOS SE review by Ben Lewis

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We love VW’s. And we especially love the sensible ones. They always remind us of the brand’s beginnings, from the early Bug to Rabbits and Golfs. They make a simple vehicle fun, useful and have a little bit of European charm. All without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for affordability and hatchback/SUV/crossover capability, the VW Taos is your vehicle. It’s the second least expensive model behind the Jetta, but it offers scores more usability. So, in 2024 does the Taos have the goods we’re looking for? Let’s find out! All in the Family If you like the current design …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Cadillac Escalade-V – Cadillac’s Performance SUV Trades Bling For Fun

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The Cadillac Escalade has often been associated with the rich and famous especially with the copious amounts of bling that the big SUV brings to the driveway. However, it’s also a crucial piece of Cadillac’s broader sales plans with the Slade’s profits helping the brand make new EVs like the Lyriq and the recently revealed Optiq. Cadillac recently confirmed that the model is slated to go all-electric but before it ditches its V8 for good, the American luxury brand decided to fulfill a fantasy and create a performance model, the 2024 Cadillac Escalade-V to end the party with a big …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV – Capability and Nameplate Flexibility Shine in EV SUV

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Styling often plays a prominent role in the success or failure of an automobile especially a futuristic clean EV looking to shake up the world stage. Mercedes-Benz is trying to do just that with their EQ lineup of EVs. But so far, the reaction has been mixed with customers showing their lukewarm enthusiasm for the bulk of the lineup. But can the SUV version of the EQE reverse this trend while still helping Mercedes-Benz reach out to more family buyers with its enhanced versatility and high level of technology?   EQE SUV Goes Off In a Different Direction Unlike the …

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

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

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Road Test Review – 2024 Range Rover Sport SE – Polish and Spice Add Depth To Luxury Icon

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The Range Rover Sport has always been the nimbler member of the Range Rover family. Unlike its more relaxed cousin, the Range Rover Sport is all about giving SUV buyers a pinch of fun with their luxury SUV purchase and often had distinctive exterior styling that helped it stand out from the more traditional Rover. But does that continue to be the case? We wanted to find out Range Rover Sport Is Lightly Tweaked In All The Right Places The 2024 model benefits from some of the exterior upgrades that the standard Range Rover received as part of its major …

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2024 Subaru Solterra Touring review by Ben Lewis

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In the world of automakers, Subaru is a smaller one, which means it sometimes pairs up with other manufacturers to help create vehicles at a more affordable cost. It has worked great for the brand, teaming up with Toyota, they have now created two generations of the BRZ sports car, (aka Toyota GR86) that are a complete delight to drive. While the marketplace seems to be adding new EV’s weekly, Subaru – along with many of the Japanese automakers – have been slow to market. And EV’s are expensive and time-consuming to create. Which meant it was a perfect time …

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2024 Kia EV9 GT-LINE AWD Long Range Review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Lexus TX 500h, and came away impressed with the large 3-row SUV’s overall efficiency, and Lexus lusciousness. But where the TX uses a hybrid powertrain, there are still plenty of folks looking to find a 3-row, EV SUV.  So, it was perfect timing that we got into a Kia EV9 to compare. We were not only interested to see how the EV9 stacks up against the Lexus, but also to see how compares to the Kia Telluride – one of the most popular 3-row SUVs on the market. Let’s check it out! Boxy but Futuristic The …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid – Sipping Fuel In Style

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Compact cars have long been relegated to the role of being basic transportation with style and features once being considered a mere afterthought. However, with CUVs putting the pressure on these vehicles both in terms of demand and sales, automakers have been forced to inject these vehicles with more style and substance as they attempt to preserve the business case for making these vehicles. One of these offerings is the 2024 Hyundai Elantra with the four-door compact attempting to stand out by offering a wide range of trims and performance options. The hybrid is hoping to appeal to those that …

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2024 Lexus TX 500h F Sport Review by Ben Lewis

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A couple interesting trends have been happening the last year or so in SUV world. First of all, everyone is going rugged – Subaru Wilderness, Honda Trailsport, etc. And design is also going that direction – the Hyundai Santa Fe, Land Cruiser and others celebrating being big, blocky and in your face. The other trend that’s heating up again is the three-row SUV. While we’ve seen vehicle likes the Kia Telluride being a big hit, new models that are less off-road and more lux like the Toyota Grand Highlander, to the Volvo XC90 are trying to muscle in on the …

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2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Road Test Review by Ben Lewis

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

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2024 Subaru WRX TR Road test review by Ben Lewis

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

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

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

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

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

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2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo Edition by Ben Lewis

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We recently spent some time in the Mazda CX-50, which would seem to be designed to replace the current CX-5, which is their best-selling model. Mazda replaced the CX-3 with the CX-30, and the CX-9 with the CX-90. So were we wrong. Maybe, as the carmaker continues to offer the CX-5, so we felt it was good time to drive one again and see how it shapes up against the ’50. Zircon Sand Persuasion One thing that gives away that this is a 2024 is the new Carbon Turbo Edition, which wears an exclusive paint color that Mazda calls Zircon …

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2024 Volvo V60 Cross Country B5 AWD Ultimate road test review by Ben Lewis

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We love wagons. While the world has gone SUV crazy, we still think there’s something cool about a lower-slung, still capable, vehicle that gets things done. And nothing looks better with a surfboard on it. Period. Unfortunately, if you love wagons as much as we do, you know – there are very few of them still available. Blame the crossover/SUV craze. When we get a chance to test any wagon, we’re excited. So, when Volvo gave us an opportunity to spend some time in the V60 Cross Country wagon, we jumped at it!  Sleek and Sexy Swede There may not …

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

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

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Road Test Review – 2024 Buick Encore GX Avenir – GX Packs Impressive Luxury, Stumbles on Style

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Buick’s gamble on SUVs is paying off with the brand reporting record sales and demand for its lineup of utilities. That includes the Buick Encore GX which not only got revamped for the 2024 model year but also newly promoted up a rung in the model ladder with the release of the entry-level focused (albeit very stylish) Buick Envista. But does the 2024 Buick Encore GX Avenir wear its new clothes well enough to still stand out? or are there a few rough edges remaining in the final product?   Wildcat Cues Don’t Translate Well Before we dive into many …

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2024 Toyota Crown Limited review by Ben Lewis

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Have you heard of the Toyota Crown? Well, if you’ve been around awhile, you might remember that the Crown was the first Japanese car to hit American shores in 1958. While the name disappeared here in 1972, it’s been a steadfast seller in other parts of the world – in fact this current model is the 15th generation! So, it’s pretty darn exciting that Toyota has decided to bring back the name in an all-new flagship sedan for the US market. So, does it deserve the right to wear that crown? Let’s find out. Real Presence First impressions are awesome. …

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2024 Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD review by Ben Lewis

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Hyundai is having a great run on vehicles lately. From the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 EVs, The updated Kona and even the rocket ship Elantra N. But when you talk about the bread-and-butter vehicles for the brand, you can’t forget the popular Tucson SUV. And since we love bread and butter, it felt like time to check out a 2024 Tucson. Evocative Design One of the reasons for the Tucson’s popularity is its gorgeous design. Up front, the “parametric” grille features half-mirror daytime running lamps hidden inside, only visible when illuminated. And while the Tucson has been around a …

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

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

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