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

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

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2020 Mazda CX-9

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

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

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Road Test Review – 2020 Land Rover Defender X – X Marks The Spot For Adventure

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The past few years have been a very interesting roller coaster ride for massive swaths of the automotive industry. The twists and turns have included a resurgence in the popularity of utility vehicles with the off-road segment in particular seeing a rapid surge in popularity. A pleasing result of the latter is the return of the Land Rover Defender to the U.S. market. The Defender was last seen here in the 1990s before tightening safety regulations forced it to retreat back to Europe where it remained a compelling treat that was just out of reach for Americans. Land Rover is …

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2020 Mazda MX-5 Club Comparison Review: Supra vs MX-5 who wins?

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The 2020 Mazda MX-5 has always been a very interesting entry for Mazda. It serves as a very budget friendly option for those looking to enter the sports car segment and it has been a value focused icon in the segment since its debut in the 1990s. During this period though the Toyota Supra was morphing into its most potent form and was a very potent performance car entry. However, volatile economic factors and currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the Yen forced the Supra to take a brief respite from production while the MX-5 continued on. But …

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2020 Sequoia TRD Pro

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

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

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

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

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Has Honda created a true Golf R killer? We take a second look at the 2021 Honda Civic Type R

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The Honda Civic Si for the longest time has always been the de-facto top performance offering for Honda in the United States. But our friends across the pond always had access to something a bit spicier, the Type R. The long wait matched the level of our collective jealousy, but at long last the current generation Type R finally arrived to truly unify the performance car constellations. The Type R has had some time to cement its place in the performance car ranks, and Honda has added some minor updates to the hottest of all Civics for the 2021 model …

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2021 GMC Canyon AT4 Off-Road Performance Edition arrives, closest thing to a Bison that GMC gets

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GMC has been on a roll when it comes to expanding its growing AT4 lineup of vehicles. The brand like others in its segment, sees off-roading as the next lucrative cash cow, and has made a key step towards cementing its fortunes in the segment, with the unveiling of the 2021 GMC Canyon AT4 Performance Edition. The Performance Edition represents a noticeable upgrade over the standard AT4, but what does it bring to the table?   It’s not a Bison, but it’s close to one For those that wonder whether the AT4 Performance Edition is the long awaited equivalent to …

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

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

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Ducati unveils the trail ready 2021 MultiStrada V4, lighter, sleeker, and more powerful than ever [Video]

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Ducati always manages to make a splash when it has something new to show the world, and with 2021 rapidly approaching, the Italian motorcycle maker decided to formally unveil the 2021 MultiStrada V4 which aims to be the most capable and sophisticated MultiStrada the company has ever produced.   All new from the ground up The core shape of the MultiStrada might look like it hasn’t changed much at first glance, but Ducati revealed that the bike has been completely redesigned from the ground up, and tweaks have been made from end to end. The bike is now slightly shorter …

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Hellfire and unholy levels of performance define insane 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT63 S [Video]

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It’s not too often that the fires of hell craft a piece of machinery that’s the perfect combination of otherworldly temptation and world class performance. But Mercedes-Benz has done just that with the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT63S. The “S” is one of the heavy hitters in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup, and was the most powerful Benz money could buy before it was usurped by the ultra limited 720 horsepower AMG GT Black Edition. But with that model being a pure two door, the GT63 aims to bring some of this track slaying performance into a distinctly four door flavored package. But does …

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Ambition and luxury, what happened to the 2006 Chrysler Imperial Concept?

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Another week, and another Chrysler concept enters the spotlight in our ongoing concept and show car focused series. For those that missed us last week, you can forgive us for catching Teofino Lopez’s shocking upset victory over Vasyli Lomachenko on ESPN (we’re big fight fans at the Metro Detroit office) but with the dust having fully settled from that epic clash, it’s back to our weekend task of dissecting concept vehicles from years past to find out what happened to them after their time on the show circuit, and whether they had a lasting impact in current vehicle offerings? This …

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2020 Hyundai Genesis G90 Ultimate Review – With major revamp, can it still be a luxury bargain?

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When the first generation Genesis G90 appeared on the scene, it was trying to rid itself of a fresh identity crisis that dated back to when it was formerly known as the Hyundai Equus. The Equus was a flagship sedan with potential, but it didn’t get the flashy state of the art fashion designs that its rivals got. Instead, its exterior design was more akin to a bland sweater or cardigan that your relatives got you for Christmas at the last minute. It did the job, but kept people from really noticing its inner talents. The G90 was a welcome …

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2021 MINI Cooper 1499 GT and Countryman Oxford Edition add spice and value to MINI lineup.

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Keeping an icon fresh can be a challenge sometimes, and its even more so when you are trying to add some spice and vigor to the iconic MINI Cooper and its CUV focused sibling the Countryman. However, MINI designers and engineers have always stepped up to the challenge in the past, and they did it again with the unveiling of the MINI Cooper 1499 GT and Countryman Oxford Editions.   1499 GT Edition is a throwback to budget performance We’ll give MINI credit, we actually had to go back in time (and read a few old books) to find the …

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2022 Hummer EV pickup takes center stage, 1,000 horsepower and innovation lead the way

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It has been a long journey for GMC and the revived Hummer EV. We were originally supposed to see it back in summer, but the rapid onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced the company to retract those plans and postpone it. But with the colors of fall fully in bloom, GMC is at last ready to pull the covers off of the Hummer EV pickup. This bruiser comes packed to the gills with technology and innovation, but here are the key essentials that make this truck a true make it or break it gamble for GMC and GM as a …

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Mazda adds its signature to the mid-size sedan segment with 2020 Mazda6 Signature

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When it comes to straddling the line between mainstream and entry level, we’ll admit that Mazda is a very hard act to follow. When you look at the company’s pricing ladder as well as the segments it competes in, it’s easy to write it off as a mainstream luxury brand. However, the interior designs recently make it clear that Mazda is shooting far above its weight class when it comes to this particular category. With sedans being pinched for sales and attention by a growing army of SUV and CUV entries, they have to embrace new ways of maintaining the …

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

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

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Honda brings more aggression, interior tweaks, and new HPD package to 2021 Ridgeline

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The Honda Ridgeline was a very interesting vehicle when it first appeared on the scene. It had some whiffs of the Chevrolet Avalanche when it first appeared, and was supposed to be everything that the old Ridgeline wasn’t. It certainly seemed to be on the right track, with car like comfort, good fuel economy, and even a commendably sized bed. However, the one thing the Ridgeline didn’t have on its side was strong sales numbers, with the truck often being relegated to being a mere afterthought in the sales race. But Honda is not ready to call it quits, and …

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

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

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The best Cadillac sedan yet? CT5 shoots for a bullseye

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The Cadillac CTS certainly left a big pair of shoes to fill when it was taken out of production recently. The model originally started as a tweener model to compete with the BMW 3 and 5 Series before eventually being given more freedom to go after bigger game. Along the way, it also spawned a coupe and even a station wagon to go along with the spicier V8 powered V variants. However, it was not enough to help Cadillac snatch the sales crowd from the Germans, and sales slid. Cadillac decided to go for a full reboot with the CT5, …

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2020 vs 2022 Kona what’s new and different?

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With Hyundai recently unveiling the heavily updated 2021 Kona for Europe (2022 for our market) its clear that Hyundai is still willing to walk the walk when it comes to making a compact CUV that has a combination of style, technology, and performance. But with the game tightening up in its segment, the Kona still needs to be on its A game to fend off new challengers. Hyundai has done just that with the 2022 Kona. But while Hyundai unveiled it for the European market, it still serves as a glimpse to whats in store for U.S. customers. We recently …

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Rolls Royce unveils heavily revamped 2021 Ghost: luxury sedan

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If you see a 2021 Rolls Royce Ghost cruising its way down a quiet boulevard, chances are that you might mistake it for its outgoing predecessor versus being anything radically new. The Ghost is one of the most successful models in the company’s history, and as a result, designers did not want to rock the boat too much when it came time to make the 2021 Ghost. As mentioned earlier, the core design of the 2021 Ghost does not stray too far from its predecessor, with the new model only sharing the Spirit of Ecstasy badge and the door mounted …

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Road Test – 2020 Hyundai Sonata: SEL Plus – Second verse better than the first?

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In an age where SUV and CUV sales are rapidly displacing sedans in the sales charts, the ability to evoke a strong emotional need to consumers is becoming a rapidly important goal for the sedan segment. Whether the reaction is good or bad, it’s certainly far better than having no reaction at all. Hyundai is keenly aware of this, and has sculpted the 2020 Sonata to achieve just that. But while the Limited model we tested in Metro Detroit awhile back certainly had the technology to back up its ambitious goals, we were curious if this could extend out to …

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

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

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Updated with First Real-Life Photos – 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1

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One of the only Mach 1’s currently in existence was present for the GT500 Track Tour and it was cool to see in the flesh.  Hot color and aero/grip focused makeover for what Ford’s calling the highest-performance 5-liter Mustang, ever. The double chin spoiler (!) and round light block elements are eye-catching at first glance, as is the spoiler right from the GT500. Super cool new spider-spoke alloys and even a lip on the front fenders to cover the wider rubber.  A new bumper shape up front changes the face slightly too. The in-person effect is subtle but undeniably very …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Lexus RC-F – Is This The Ultimate Japanese Pony Car? [Video]

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In a segment where lap times are rapidly becoming the defining measuring stick in terms of what makes a good car, it can be easy to forget that sometimes, buyers want a performance car that also excels in feeling and sounding special. Lexus is keenly aware of this, and has made some welcome updates to the RC-F for 2020. But can these updates help the RC-F truly stand out in a crowded segment, while retaining the core essentials that enthusiasts love?   A Solar Flare Of Expressive Styling: For 2020, the RC-F received a mild refresh that aimed at adding …

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Ford Unveils 2021 Mustang Mach 1, Mixes New School Performance With Old School Looks [Video]

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When we last saw the Mach 1 moniker applied to a Mustang, it was back in 2004 and 2005 when the moniker was used on a limited production run of Mustang models. While that iteration featured a shaker hood, not much else was done with performance. Ford engineers opted to remedy that for 2021 with the limited edition Mach 1. Like before, the 2021 Mach 1 is tapping into a very potent piece of nostalgia, with the car being adorned with graphics and stripes that are supposed to be a callback to the original 1969 model. This connection also extends …

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2021 Lexus IS Brings New Styling and Technology To Buyers, Retains Engine Lineup

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Even though the Lexus IS has been around in some shape or form for the past 20 years, it often does not get some of the respect and credit that it rightfully deserves. With segment benchmarks like the Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class and the legendary BMW 3-Series still resonating profoundly in the compact luxury car segment, the quirky IS has never really had the opportunity to outshine the trio. Lexus engineers were eager to change that reality, and have formally unveiled the 2021 IS via a virtual event. The exterior styling of the 2021 IS will arguably be the most …

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Road Test Followup – 2020 Toyota Prius Prime Limited – By Carl Malek

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When the Toyota Prius Prime first appeared on the scene, it was supposed to be a viable range topper for the Prius model family thanks to the addition of more equipment, as well as its ability to be a plug-in hybrid vehicle. But while this allowed it to swing punches with rivals such as the Honda Clarity, and the Hyundai Ioniq plug-in, the Prime also suffered from several notable shortcomings that helped keep it from reaching its full potential. Toyota is out to remedy this for 2020, and has unleashed a significant update that aims to refine its character while …

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Road Test Followup – 2020 Mazda3 Hatchback AWD – By Carl Malek

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The Mazda3 is the spirited underdog in the compact car segment. When the current generation model first made its appearance back in 2019, it was perhaps the most comprehensive effort yet at making the budget focused 3 into a true contender in the segment. With expressive exterior design, a cabin that blurs the line between luxury and affordability, and a chassis to envy for. The Mazda3 certainly had a head start in its quest to dethrone the Volkswagen Golf from the top of the sales charts. With such a strong start for 2019, what could Mazda engineers do to help …

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

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

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2021 BMW 4-Series Embraces Bigger Grilles, Gains More Power and Poise For New Model Year

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When BMW first revealed that the iconic twin kidney grilles on many of its cars were going to be growing in size, it caused an uproar among BMW loyalists that feared that an iconic BMW design cue was going to be lost forever. Despite this, BMW has moved forward, and has unveiled the 2021 BMW 4-Series coupe. The enlarged grille originally made its debut on the Concept 4, and while we are still processing the look of the production version of this grille, it is apparent that some changes were made in an attempt to address some of these concerns. …

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2021 BMW 5-Series Debuts With Refreshed Design, Brings More Powerful Electrified Powertrain To Consumers

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BMW recently took the wraps off of the 2021 BMW 5-Series earlier this week, and it brings a number of welcome updates that not only help keep the 5-Series fresh in the minds of buyers for a few more years, but also allows the 5-Series to take a big step closer towards formally fitting in with BMW’s renewed push towards electrification technology. But before we get into the more radical changes that take place in the performance hardware, we might as well address the decidedly more subtle updates that define the exterior styling. Being a mid-cycle refresh, the 5-Series avoids …

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Triumph Scrambler 1200 Bond Edition Goes From The Silver Screen To Your Garage

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The latest James Bond film No Time To Die was originally supposed to make its debut over a month ago, but the rapidly evolving situation surrounding the novel COVID-10 outbreak forced its premiere to be postponed until fall. Despite this, some of the product tie ins that were bundled in with the movie are still moving forward with their original time tables. One of these is the all new Triumph Scrambler 1200 Bond Edition which will serve as the most compelling preview of the movie (for now) when it makes its way to Triumph showrooms. The most immediate differences that will …

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2021 Toyota Sienna Minivan Unveiled, Debuts Hybrid Only Performance

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It has been awhile since a major shakeup has occurred in the minivan segment. While the redesigned Chrysler Pacifica cemented FCA’s role as a potent benchmark in the segment, others have been aging not so gracefully. One of these offerings is the Toyota Sienna. Last updated back in 2011, the Sienna was in dire need of an update with aging styling and powertrains handicapping its sales potential. Toyota is out to right the ship though, and has formally unveiled the 2021 Toyota Sienna which aims to revitalize the Sienna nameplate while also bringing in new technology as well.   A …

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

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

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Road Test Review – 2020 Mini Cooper S Clubman – By Carl Malek [Video]

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The 2020 Mini Cooper S Clubman is the answer to a very interesting question. What would happen if you take a Mini Cooper hatchback, and try to apply some of its quirky charm and appeal to a segment blurring utility focused model? The end result is the Clubman which tries to add more versatility and cargo hauling ability into its distinctly British flanks. But while the Clubman Panel Van a few years ago was a short lived and ultimately flawed experiment, the standard Clubman has managed to gather a sizable following of loyalists over the years. We were eager to …

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Superformance Goes Double Or Nothing With All New MKIII-R, Modern Aerodynamics And Performance Muscle Unleashes The Beast Incarnate

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Superformance has managed to establish a very solid reputation for producing replicas that faithfully emulate a wide range of 1960’s cars including the Shelby Cobra. The Shelby Cobra replicas in particular have morphed into a core piece of the broader business, with the firm even receiving a licensing deal from Shelby themselves (a rarity for many replica makers.) But for this particular project, Superformance pitched historical accuracy, and instead embraced their dark side to unleash a very potent beast for the track.   Dubbed the MKIII-R the basic design shares much of its core DNA with the old-school Shelby Cobra, …

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

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

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First Drive Review – 2020 BMW X1 xDrive28i – By Carl Malek

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The 2020 BMW X1 has often been a model that has largely preferred to lurk behind the scenes. While the bigger X3, X5, and even the X7 hog the bulk of the spotlight, the X1 has performed its duties as a entry level model without as much as a whimper. But BMW is always eager to shake things up to try and keep their models fresh in the rapidly evolving SUV/CUV sales race, and the 2020 X1 is no exception. BMW has made some subtle but noticeable updates to the tiniest member of the X family for 2020. But do …

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First Drive Review – 2020 BMW 840i – By Carl Malek [Video]

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When one asks what makes a proper flagship coupe? Some will say that you must have eye watering style to help your offering stand out from the rest of the pack. Still, others will say performance and technology rule the day. Regardless of which principle is true, making sure all the stars align to achieve this nirvana is very difficult even for a German luxury car maker like BMW. When the world last saw the 8-Series coupe, it was back in 1990 when the first 8 Series rolled off the assembly line. Designed to be the ultimate 90’s luxury machine, …

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Bollinger Motors Rolls Out All New B2 Chassis, World’s First Class 3 Commercial EV Platform Expands Product Flexibility

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Bollinger Motors revealed awhile back that it intendeds to enter the commercial vehicle segment as the young company looks to learn and gather experience for its upcoming lineup of EV products. But while the B1 SUV and B2 pickup truck certainly showcased what is in store for consumers lucky enough to purchase one when they eventually begin production, Bollinger remained quiet on what the commercial aspect of the business would look like. The company has ended its silence on this subject though, and has given the world a compelling glimpse into how it intends to make its mark on the …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Lexus NX300h – By Carl Malek

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Crossovers these days are becoming a solid backbone for many automakers when it comes to hitting crucial sales targets. This fact of life is amplified in the luxury CUV segment, where the battleground is white hot, and these vehicles have effectively stolen the spotlight from their sedan counterparts. Lexus has certainly done a good job of keeping up with trends, and has assembled a very potent lineup of crossover offerings. While some like the Lexus RX take pride in their role as being the figurative bread winner model, the Japanese auto giant knows that other buyers will want something distinctly …

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

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

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Road Test Review – 2020 Lexus LS 500 F-Sport – By Carl Malek

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When we last met the Lexus LS 500, it was back in 2018, when we invited it to a special three way dance to see which flagship sedan could indeed emerge as the best of the best. While the F-Sport we had at the time lost out to the Genesis G90 and the first place Cadillac CT6, it also helped play a supporting role in a very key life moment for this writer (the proposal to my fiancée Emily.) With a bundle of subtle updates for the 2020 model year, we were eager to catch up with this very special …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Volvo S90 R-Design – By Carl Malek

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In the world of high end luxury cars, marques such as BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi and more can usually be found flooding the parking lots of shopping malls, bustling downtowns, and those elegant high end restaurants. This is due to how well built they are, as well as the love affair that many loyalists have with their elegant charms, state of the art technology, and luxury trappings. As a result, they present a formidable bar for others to surpass. One such contender looking to do this is Volvo, which has recently mounted a renewed effort at adding ample amounts of …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Toyota Yaris XLE Sedan – By Carl Malek

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The Toyota Yaris has had a very interesting life, with twists and turns worthy of a Tom Clancy novel. Once unveiled as a port of the model lineup for the axed Scion brand, the little four door transitioned to the main Toyota roster where it was briefly sold alongside its cruder predecessor. This went on until it took over the Yaris nameplate a short while ago, and has continued its role as Toyota’s smallest sub-compact offering. When we last met it, it was a few years ago where we had the chance to pilot a manual transmission equipped model. But …

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Road Test Review – 2020 GMC Sierra 2500 HD AT4 – By Carl Malek

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It’s hard to deny the love affair that buyers have developed for rugged light duty trucks like the dune slaying Ford Raptor, the Ram Rebel 1500, as well as the Chevrolet Silverado Trailboss. With these models becoming key cogs for their respective brands in terms of sales, it only seems natural to extend this magic to their heavy duty counterparts. The Ram Power Wagon, The Ford Super Duty Tremor, and the Nissan Titan XD Pro 4-X were the early shots into this endeavor and naturally GMC had to issue a rebuttal of their own with the Sierra HD AT4. But …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Hyundai Accent Limited – By Carl Malek

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When the Hyundai Accent first appeared on the scene back in 1994, it was known more so for its rock bottom price point versus being an exceptionally good long term value. While it undercut many econoboxes at the time, owners paid a price for this by having to deal with middling engines that delivered ho hum performance, and a plastic fantastic interior that would make a Chevrolet Cavalier blush with envy. But with budget focused CUVs representing a very real threat to the Accent’s existence, Hyundai had to completely revamp the Accent to not only be a mere darling to …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited – By Carl Malek

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The 2020 Hyundai Palisade has certainly all the right pieces to be a successful entry in the three row SUV segment. A good V6 engine is married to a proper three row platform, that also features an interior that straddles the line between mainstream and opulent luxury. But wheras its cousin the Kia Telluride has ridden a rocket of popularity in its quest to top the sales charts, the Palisade has played more of a supporting role, but does the Palisade do a good job of asserting its own distinctive identity? We were eager to find out.   Polarizing Design …

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

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

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Alfa Romeo Puts Giulia On Crash Diet, Adds Power With All New GTA Model

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Alfa Romeo wanted to bring some zest and fire to the Geneva Motor Show, but while the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak and the subsequent actions of the Swiss government thwarted Alfa Romeo’s original plans for a grand unveiling worthy of its ongoing 110th anniversary celebrations. The Italian sports car maker instead took to the digital realm to showcase the newest iteration of its Giulia sedan, which revives a vaunted moniker that has painted a trail of victories and performance during Alfa’s existence. Dubbed the Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA, this model arrives to serve as an even hotter version of the already …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro – By Carl Malek

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When we last met the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro it was in the middle of 2019 where we got acquainted with the truck’s rugged poise, capability, as well as some of the technology that it was missing i.e push button start, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Toyota is keen on keeping the Tundra a very viable threat to the Detroit Big 3’s supremacy in the pickup segment. But can some light cosmetic work and an infusion of new technology play a key role in helping the Tundra be a force to be reckoned with? Or is it still an outsider …

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Honda Unveils Civic Type R Limited Edition, Will Only Build 600 Examples For U.S.

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Ever since the Honda Civic Type R made its appearance for the first time ever in the U.S. back in 2017, it has rapidly emerged as one of the best performance cars currently on sale. Honda is very keen on maintaining this reputation, and has unveiled a special track centric version of the Type R for those that need a bit more poise and confidence in their performance sedan purchase. Known as the Civic Type R Limited Edition, the model will not break any new ground when it comes to formal creativity for its name, but Honda hopes that buyers …

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2021 Chevrolet Equinox Slinks Into Chicago With New Updates

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

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

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

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Jeep Brings New Wrangler Gladiator Special Editions To Chicago, Mojave Gladiator Storms The Desert

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Jeep aimed to make a splash at the 2020 Chicago Auto Show, and brought a trio of debuts to wow the crowds in the Windy City with their blend of style and rugged functionality. Before we get into the custom side of things, we might as well get into the show stealer of Jeep’s conference, the Gladiator Mojave edition. The Mojave is Jeep’s answer to requests from loyalists that needed a more capable tool in desert driving situations, and comes equipped with a number of modifications that help it be better suited for this role. The exterior styling of the …

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Chrysler Brings All-Wheel Drive To Pacifica, Releases Opulent Pinnacle Model

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With the rumors that Chrysler was adrift in the marketplace due to its slumping sales, as well as its currently moribund two model lineup, FCA wanted to show the world that rumors about the impending death of Chrysler were greatly exaggerated, and that there is still some life left in the iconic American brand. The firm chose to do this by unveiling the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica which brings a whole suite of updates, and a whole arsenal of new tricks to help show the world that the Pacifica is still a brawny heavyweight in the world of minivans. The exterior benefits …

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Cadillac Targets Navigator With Tech Laden 2021 Escalade [Video]

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

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Motorcycles And Accesibility Highlight 2020 Cleveland IMS Progressive Motorcycle Show

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Ever wondered what it would be like to ride a motorcycle? To have the feeling of the wind truly flowing through your hair? While the wind was a bit too cold for formal motorcycle riding, we did the next best thing, and took a detour to Cleveland, Ohio recently to check out the 2020 Progressive International Motorcycle Show. Part of the broader International Motor Cycle Shows series, these shows are designed to not only appeal to long running motorcycle riders, but also new riders looking to enter the world of two wheeling for the first time. But can shows like …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Lincoln Aviator Black Label – By Carl Malek [Video]

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Lincoln is on a roll, We first experienced Lincoln’s assault on the luxury SUV sgment when we had a chance to get behind the wheel of the flagship Lincoln Navigator. But for all the glitz and glamor wielded by the Gator, it cannot bear the weight of Lincoln’s future alone. The Nautilus has been an admirable guest star, but Lincoln is placing its bets on two new models, the Aviator and the smaller Corsair. To find out what each of the duo brings to the table, Lincoln invited us to test them back to back, but can the Aviator and …

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

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

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Product Review – Accell AxFast Level 2 Electric Vehicle Portable Charger – By Carl Malek

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With electric vehicles rapidly becoming more of a presence in the lives of the American consumer, the quest to try and create products that can better necessitate the unique demands and challenges that EV ownership brings can be a very daunting task for companies. One of these firms trying to improve things for EV buyers is Accell. The California based company has made a name for themselves when it comes to creating portable electric charging products for buyers looking to bring EV charging wherever they go. The company kindly invited us to try one of their newest products the AxFast …

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Polaris Unveils 2020 Slingshot, New Automatic Transmission And Turbocharging For Everyone

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Polaris had us and the world wondering what was in store when they began teasing the 2020 Slingshot. Serving as a radical revamp of the lovable three wheeler that we had the chance to fully experience in Traverse City, the company promised that big changes were in store for the hot selling three-wheeler, and now that the covers have come off, and we have had a chance to soak it all in the 2020 model is a very different animal in a number of very encouraging ways. The bulk of these changes will not be found in the exterior design. …

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

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

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Lamborghini Huracan Evo Gains Amazon Alexa Capability For 2020 [Video]

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It’s not too often that Italian supercars brand Lamborghini makes an appearance at CES, but the bespoke firm used the opportunity to reveal that the Huracan will be adding Amazon‘s Alexa technology to its suite of infotainment system tricks for the new model year. Lamborghini even unveiled a brief video clip of Alexa in action, with the system having the ability to alter the color of the cabin interior lighting, change the climate control settings, open the garage door, find nearby points of interest and so much more. Alexa is slated to be an optional extra that can be equipped …

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Best & Worst Of 2019 – Michigan Edition – By Carl Malek

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Another year is drawing to a close, and that means it’s time to reflect on the good and not so things that defined the year in general. In our case, it’s time to reflect on some of the good and not so good cars that we reviewed during 2019. Like last year, the Michigan branch had a very busy year reviewing some of the best cars on the market today, and we even managed to add some new brands to our list of visitors as well. Like last year’s list, eligibility begins during the first week of January, and ends …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque First Edition – By Carl Malek

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When Land Rover first unveiled the Range Rover Evoque a few years ago, it represented a bold and key step for the British SUV maker. Penned with input from controversial style and music figure Victoria Beckham, the Evoque straddled the line between being a stylish accessory, and a go anywhere bruiser that promised higher levels of capability and ruggedness for the chic clientele that chose to welcome it into their homes. The Evoque proved to be a big seller for the company, but it was admittedly a bit rough around the edges in some aspects, especially in engine and infotainment …

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

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

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2020 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350, GT350R Gain All New Heritage Edition Package

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Back in August, Ford showcased the suite of exterior and mechanical enhancements that the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 and the GT350R received for the 2020 model year. We even had a chance to sample the duo on the winding twists and turns of the M1 Concourse. But while we had a blast seeing what these capable serpents could do out on the track, as well as hearing the sweet soundtrack from the 5.2 liter V8. There was a sense that the pair were missing a noticeable link to their rich past. Ford and Shelby embarked on fixing that, and revealed …

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2020 Dodge Charger GT Brings Four Season Capability To Dodge’s Musclecar Entry

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When it comes to making lemonade out of squeezed lemons, few can top Dodge and their incredible ability to do just that with some of their models. One prominent example is the Dodge Charger, with the model last receiving a major refresh in 2015, with the updated platform tracing its roots back to 2011. While this makes the Charger an aging grizzled veteran in a sea of decidedly younger competitors. The Charger is defying the trend of slumping sedan sales, with the model actually recording a noticeable double digit increase in sales. This is the best sales performance in a …

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Morgan To End Production Of Traditional Ladder Frame, Focus On CX Based Underpinnings For Next Gen Models

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When Morgan first introduced the simple steel ladder frame 83 years ago on the 4/4 and other models in the firm’s four wheeled range, the British sports car maker had no idea that these humble underpinnings would not only last so long, but also help build and cement the unique history and identity that has come to define countless Morgan Motor Company products. But following a recent shakeup in Morgan’s management structure, the company has revealed that it is ending production of this iconic underpinning next year in order to accelerate the introduction of its next generation CX platform. This …

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

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

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

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

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Hyundai Showcases Refreshed Ioniq With 170 Miles Of Driving Range, Updated Exterior Styling

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Hyundai‘s Ioniq lineup has made quite a splash since it debuted a few years ago. Designed to be a potent Toyota Prius competitor, the Ioniq had plenty of potential, and even mirrored the Prius’s extensive green lineup with a Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, and even a pure EV variant all ready to battle against their bitter Japanese rival. But with the battle still swinging in Toyota’s favor, Hyundai has instead chosen to use the opportunity to update the Ioniq for 2021 to help give it a new lease on life, as well as give it several new tricks to help it …

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2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Debuts In L.A.

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When we last met the Lexus LC convertible, it was earlier this year at the North American International Auto Show. While the cold weather, and Lexus’s vague statements on whether it was indeed production bound or not kept us guessing, there was no secret that even in concept form, Lexus had a very stylish entry on its hands. Fast forward to the 2019 L.A. Auto Show, and the company has unveiled the production version of the LC 500 convertible which has thankfully retained a lot of its show car charm in the transition from concept to production bound vehicle. The …

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2020 Nissan Sentra Debuts With Improved Styling, Upgraded Technology

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When the Nissan Sentra first debuted back in 1982, it was when small econoboxes ruled a far bigger slice of the American car market, and it already had to contend with not only the Toyota Corolla, but also a whole host of long forgotten domestic entries that were vying for the attention of frugal minded U.S. shoppers. But 32 years of evolution have helped the Sentra not only become one of Nissan’s most successful models ever (with over six million units sold,) but also a much better entry in the compact car segment. Nissan is eager to showcase just how …

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

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

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

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

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Road Test Followup – 2019 Lexus GS350 – By Carl Malek

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When we last checked in on the Lexus GS350, we remarked that it was a luxury sedan that certainly had its own unique take on luxury, but was rapidly being left behind by rivals like the Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Lexus has so far not confirmed if the GS is indeed living on for a new generation as the brand focuses on rapidly securing its hand in the rapidly exploding SUV and CUV segments. But like a grizzled veteran the GS (along with the equally long in the tooth RC coupe) continue to soldier on for …

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Finding Its Inner Potential, 2020 Shelby Mustang GT350R Brings New Moves To Its Track Slaying Mission

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When we last met the Shelby GT350 Mustang, it was in its base form, and while the GT350 certainly proved to be a very track ready offering, the feeling that it had more lurking underneath its imposing bodywork was hard to ignore. The intoxicating snarl of its 5.2 liter 526 horsepower V8 certainly does its best to distract you from thinking such things, but despite its attempts at luring you into its charms, the feeling of more still permeates the overall driving experience. Ford engineers have felt the same way too, and have unleashed a new iteration of the Shelby …

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Cadillac CT4 And CT4-V Pricing Unveiled, Starts Under $34,000

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Cadillac has been on a recent product blitz as of late. While GM’s pinnacle luxury brand is currently refocusing on beefing up its once sparse utility vehicle lineup, it has not forgotten about its traditional car lineup. The Cadillac CT4-V as well as its more conventional CT4 counterpart have already made their respective debuts, but the brand has finally released the official pricing ladder for every flavor of CT4. Based on what we see here, it’s very clear that Cadillac aims to draw in younger buyers with its newest four door offering. The fun starts off with the entry level …

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Road Test Followup – 2019 Hyundai Kona Ultimate By Carl Malek

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When we last met the Hyundai Kona, it was in Detroit where we got to briefly experience its charms on various roads in the Metro Detroit area (as well as run into Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond of Top Gear and Grand Tour fame). Our brush with the stars aside, the Kona delivered a good first impression, thanks to its compact size, as well as the sheer amount of standard equipment that is infused into every Kona. The Kona even took its act to the green car market, where the Kona EV has been making waves since it …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Honda Civic Touring – By Carl Malek

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Honda has a lot riding on the shoulders of the 2020 Civic sedan and hatchback. While the Civic still commands a sizable chunk of sales in the compact car market, it’s no secret that the nameplate has felt the pressure in recent years from a resurgence in CUV and SUV demand in the U.S. While the Civic Si and the range topping Type R have helped the Civic bolster its impressive performance credentials, the mainstream Civic has had to use a completely different set of skills to help it maintain its lofty position in Honda’s broader sales pie. The 10th …

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2020 Nissan Titan Brings Improvements And Better Capability To Buyers, Is It Enough?

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Remember the Nissan Titan? If your answer is no, we don’t blame you. Despite making waves when it first appeared several years ago, Nissan’s attempt at usurping the established pickup order has not gone well. The model has suffered from slow sales, with this dire prospect forcing Nissan to recently axe several variants of the Titan recently, including the Cummins powered XD model. But Nissan has not given up, and recently introduced the 2020 Titan at the Texas State Fair. We took some time to formally analyze the current generation Titan, and we were eager to find out if this …

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

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

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

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

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Road Test Matchup – 2019 Kia K900 Luxury V6 Vs Genesis G90 3.3T V6 – By Carl Malek [Video]

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When it comes to large luxury cars, they are rapidly becoming a dying species. With Ford and General Motors cleaning house with the axing of their large car models (CT6 and Continental excluded for the moment) this particular segment is slowly becoming more dominated by import brands. Case in point are the Genesis G90 and it’s Kia equivalent, the 2019 K900. Both of these large four doors aim to double down on providing plenty of size and luxury to those that refuse to conform with the revived trend of buying a large luxury SUV. We have had plenty of opportunities …

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The King Has Returned, Land Rover Revives Legendary Defender Nameplate For 2020 [Video]

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When The Defender ended production in 2016, it signaled the end of an era where brute ruggedness and world class off-road capability were enough to stand out from the rest of the SUV ranks. Indeed, the Defender came packed with capability, and it also had a very impressive bloodline that traced its roots back to some of the first Land Rovers ever produced. But while European buyers were without their fix for only a few years, U.S. fans had a much longer wait, with our version of the Defender leaving our shores back in 1997. But at long last, a …

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Car-Revs-Daily Double Review – 2019 Toyta RAV4 Adventure 4WD /MSR Hubba Hubba NX-2 Backpacking Tent – By Carl Malek

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When the 2019 Toyota RAV4 was unleashed into the mass market, the revamped utility offering had some very big shoes to fill. Its predecessor (outdated as it was towards the end of its life) still managed to post impressive sales numbers in 2018, and the RAV4 has always been a go to choice for many buyers that need a sensible utility offering for their everyday commuting needs. But can the 2019 Toyota RAV4 bring some much needed vigor and polish to the storied nameplate without ignoring its core audience? We were keen to find out, and devised a formidable testing …

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First Drive Review – 2019 Rolls Royce Dawn Black Badge – By Carl Malek

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When we last met Rolls Royce’s Black Badge lineup, it was at the 2018 MAMA Spring Rally where we had the chance to go for a brief spin in the Wraith Black Badge. The Wraith’s rendition was supposed to appeal to a younger audience, and give the ultra bespoke coupe a small but welcome pinch of performance engineering to go with its world class levels of luxury and opulence. With the Dawn convertible proving to be an equally popular choice for the small sector of Rolls Royce’s customer base that want to add droptop cruising to the list of things …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Hyundai Elantra Sport M/T – By Carl Malek

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The battle in the compact sport sedan segment is still heating up despite the rapid ascent of compact crossovers, and the slow introduction of their equally spicy performance variants. While the Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GLI, and the Subaru WRX have become the established players when it comes to delivering bargain focused performance to selective enthusiasts. An alternative choice that has always been considered the outsider looking in is the venerable Elantra Sport. Hyundai has recently been kickstarting its attempts at being a relevant player in this shrinking but still viable segment. This is thanks mainly to the Veloster and …

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First Drive Review – 2017 Ford GT – By Carl Malek

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When Ford first revealed the 2017 Ford GT at the North American International Auto Show, it was arguably one of the best kept secrets at the show that year. It was also the best kept secret at Ford, with only a scant few knowing of its meager origins until the very end of its development cycle. Since then, the GT has been a very potent marketing tool for the company, and it has proven to be a very compelling piece of eye candy for millions of enthusiasts around the world. We first had our taste of GT infused bliss when …

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Ford Unveils 2020 Xfinity Series Mustang, Will Debut In Daytona 500

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Using the dynamic backdrop of the 2019 Woodward Dream Cruise as an enviable world stage, Ford Performance took the veil of secrecy off of its updated Xfinity Series racing Mustang, which aims to continue the impressive success that the Mustang has had in NASCAR since it made its return to that sport in 2011. While the rules governing NASCAR prevent the updated racer from adopting radically altered body work, Ford designers still managed to make the new racer stand out from its predecessors. The graphics work for example has been updated to better reflect the current Mustang, with familiar cues …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE 6-Speed Manual – By Carl Malek

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When it comes to the venerable Toyota Corolla, the iconic compact sedan has developed a very loyal following during its several decade production run, and it has managed to even block the challenge to its sales supremacy that has been cast into stone by a growing field of CUV competitors. But while the Corolla has managed to check all the other boxes that car buyers think in their minds when they purchase one, the lone item that has been missing in recent years is excitement. So when Toyota revealed that it planned to release a five-door version of its econobox, …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Lexus UX200 F Sport – By Carl Malek

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Lexus like other automakers, had a bit of a conundrum when it came to the task of luring in young millennials to its model lineup. How do you create something that comes jam packed with technology, style, and sophistication but in the compact dimensions that are needed for a urban commuter? While the Lexus RX is still a venerable nameplate (the bewildering RX350L excluded.) Its bigger size does not bode well for buyers in urban environments, and the Lexus NX can be a bit too extreme for other buyers. Lexus thinks it has finally hit the sweet spot with the …

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Zora’s Dream Fulfilled, Chevrolet Unveils 2020 C8 Corvette Stingray, Mid-Engine Power And Technology Revamp Iconic Nameplate For New Generation Of Sports Car Buyers [ Videos]

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When Zora Duntov first thought of the idea for a radical mid-engine Corvette on 1959, the car purely existed in concept form (CERV 1,) with the idea being way ahead of what the 1950s could offer in terms of technology. Despite this, the core conscience of this idea never went away, with the 1960s 70, 80s and  even the 1990s all featuring a mid-engine equipped Vette concept in some shape or form (including CERV II and CERV III) But like before, the idea was too revolutionary for its time, and as the 1990’s came and went, economic feasibility became more …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label – By Carl Malek

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We like exploration, the sense of embarking on an adventure and discovering new things. It turns out, the folks at Lincoln also like the spirit of adventure too, especially with their recent blitz towards adding more exploration focused motifs into their models. When we last checked in on Lincoln, we checked out the biggest offering in their lineup, the revamped 2018 Navigator. The Navigator aimed to re-establish Lincoln’s dominance in the full-size luxury SUV segment, and we put that to the test by embarking on a road trip that took us throughout northern and western Michigan. However, while the Navigator …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Mopar Ram 1500 Big Horn – By Carl Malek [Video]

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With all the diverse talents that the 2019 Ram 1500 brings to the table, it’s no surprise to hear that sales as well as the 1500’s broader reputation in the segment are on the upswing. Once considered the perennial third place offering behind Ford and GM, FCA’s plucky pickup entry has completely shifted the status quo, and is clawing its way towards usurping the Ford F-150 from its throne on top of the pickup truck sales charts. But a key and often lesser known story is how important the vehicle accessory market has been in the Ram’s ongoing success story. …

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