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Road Test Review – 2023 Lexus RX 500h AWD F Sport – Lexus Goes For Performance With This RX

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The Lexus RX has been the ultimate jack of all trades for Lexus in the CUV segment. While the doomed RX 350L showed that there were limits to how far the RX could go in meeting certain segment needs, the CUV proved to be more than capable of meeting challenges when it was allowed to operate within its comfort zone. Lexus wanted to build on the core formula when it redesigned the RX for 2023 but it also wanted to inject more spice into the mix with the new 2023 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance model. But does the …

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Road Test Review- 2023 Lexus RX 350h AWD – Performance and Fuel Economy Define Next Chapter of RX

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The Lexus RX has always been a strong selling CUV model for the Japanese luxury brand ever since its debut at the height of the original CUV craze. However, while occasional mutants like the ill-fated three-row version of the RX attempted to inject freshness into the sleek CUV, it became clear that the RX was rapidly aging in the face of a growing pool of competition. Lexus has finally given the RX the love it long deserved with the revamped 2023 Lexus RX. New styling aims to dictate the pace and the interior is better than ever. But is all …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Lexus IS350 F-Sport – New Technology Hides Old Bones

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The Lexus IS was the classic example of age before beauty. Lexus wanted to bring the fight to the Germans, but in the end, there was no hiding the fact that the IS was too old, clunky, and unpolished for it to pose any serious form of threat to the established benchmarks (even the Cadillac CT4 managed to outshine it). This time though, Lexus went back to the drawing board for the 2022 IS, and while some of the old bones carry over from the outgoing model, there’s still plenty to talk about here.   New IS Styling Is Bolder …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Mazda CX-5 – Carryover Model Shares The Spotlight With CX-50, Can It Still Blur The Segment?

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The 2023 Mazda CX-5 continues to be one of the strongest-selling models in the brand’s growing pool of SUV entries, thanks to its ability to blend style with segment-blurring luxury. However, it’s facing traditional competition from rivals and an internal threat from the recently launched Mazda CX-50. Can the 2023 Mazda CX-5 still make a name for itself in this hotly contested segment or has its age finally caught up with it?   CX-5 Styling Hides The Wrinkles Well While it’s no secret that the CX-5 is starting to age, you would be hard-pressed to find any obvious signs of …

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Road Test Review-2022 Subaru WRX Limited – Is It Still The Budget Rally King?

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It wasn’t too long ago when the world of rally cars had a significant influence in the automotive world. Subaru and Mitsubishi were the two titans in this war with the two Japanese firms always traying to outdo one another with the Impreza and the Lancer. However, these times have long since faded away, and with the Lancer gone and the WRX STI also pushed to the proverbial dustbin. Can the 2022 Impreza WRX still deliver fun to drivers while also complying with the changing times?   Half Baked WRX Styling A Far Cry From The Old Days @carlmalek #highschool …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Road Test Review – 2021 Karma GS-6 – Karma’s Entry Level Hybrid Rises From Fisker’s Ashes

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In mythology, the legendary bird known as the phoenix symbolizes rebirth and a new beginning. In the case of Karma Automotive, it’s the rise from the ashes of the original doomed iteration of Fisker Motors. Henrik Fisker promised to bring a revolutionary take on the plug-in hybrid when the original Karma first appeared a decade ago. But a combination of outside factors, as well as Henrik’s errors, doomed it all to fail. The car itself, however, remained a viable platform for creation, with the newly formed Karma Automotive buying the pieces via a Chinese firm. But has Karma finally created …

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Road Test Review – 2021 McLaren 720S – Ferrari Who? McLaren Drops The Gauntlet On Rivals

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The 2021 McLaren 720S is in a class of its own when you have the chance to look over some of the things that it brings to the table. It has styling that looks like it was sculpted by a choreographed team of artists and madmen with cleavers, performance this side of a Ferrari, and engineering that’s second to none. But while the 720S certainly has the goods in theory to make a solid first impression, we were curious to see if the 720S could translate some of those attributes into the real world and whether it could indeed live …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Mazda 6 Signature – End Of The Road For A Solid Sedan

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The 2021 Mazda 6 is a reflection of what once defined the automotive world. In a bygone era, the four-door sedan was king, and the first utility vehicles were crude rugged beasts that could prove their worth out on the trail but had little going for them out in urban settings. But technology has advanced, and this surge of advancement has allowed utilities to surge into the forefront of the buying conversation. As a result, sedans are slowly dying out, and sadly the Mazda 6 joins the growing list of monikers being retired in the quest for higher sales. We …

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Road Test Review – Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 – The Urban Alternative To A Car?

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With all the focus on cars here on the site, it’s not too often that we have the chance to check out vehicles with less than two wheels. But when the folks at Rad Power Bikes reached out to us with the chance to check out an example of their extensive lineup of e-bikes, we were more than happy to take the offer. E-bikes are rapidly becoming a trendy segment in the broader bicycle market thanks to their functionality and the extra oomph supplied by the electric motor. But is an e-bike the perfect replacement for a car in certain …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Aston Martin DBX – One Small Step For SUVs, One Giant Leap For Aston?

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The allure of SUV sales is a potent perfume, and it’s slowly drawing in more companies. This includes those that might have otherwise been known for producing purely car-based lineups. Bentley, Lamborghini, and even Rolls Royce have all thrown their collective hats in the ring, eager to seize a slice of this new frontier for themselves. Aston Martin might have been a bit late to the party, but it intends to place its battle flag on the segment with the 2021 Aston Martin DBX. But can the DBX stem the sales decay that once defined the brand while also putting …

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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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Road Test Review – 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier: Is GM’s Full-Size SUV Better Than Ever?

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When we last had the chance to see the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, it was when the made their debut at the Little Caesars Arena late last year. The Suburban and the Tahoe rolled across the stage debuting brand new exterior styling, a revamped platform, and a completely reworked interior that aimed to rocket Chevrolet into the modern age. But can the duo follow up on the success of their predecessors while also incorporating new ideas at the dame time? We were eager to find out.   Refreshed duds keep Tahoe fresh To find out, Chevrolet sent us a …

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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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Subtle updates blend with green focused technology to add dimension to 2020 Hyundai Ioniq

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Remember back when the Toyota Prius was once considered to be the de-facto benchmark of the green vehicle segment? We do and apparently so do some of its rivals who are out to show the world that there are indeed other options besides the mighty green icon. One of these firms is Hyundai who has perhaps pulled the boldest coup of them all with the 2020 Ioniq. On the surface the Ioniq appeared to check off alot of the boxes that green car buyers want. That included exceptional fuel economy and futuristic technology but can the 2020 Hyundai Ioniq continue …

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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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Honda brings power to the gamers, unveils 2022 Civic Prototype on Twitch

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Honda has big plans for the Civic. When we first reported on it yesterday, Honda aimed to make waves with Generation Z, and chose to unveil the 2022 Civic Prototype via Twitch (the first time that an automaker has ever used the service for that purpose.) But we were left wondering, can the 2022 Honda Civic serve as an effective continuation of the Civic nameplate? Especially as younger buyers are rapidly moving towards utility vehicles? Radical styling shift signals more polish is coming to the Civic We learned several things from Honda’s trip to Twitch. The fact that there are …

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2022 Infiniti QX55 breathes new life into brand’s lineup, features sleek infotainment system

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We won’t judge you if luxury brand Infiniti doesn’t come to mind right away when asked to name one of their models. Infiniti has been in the doldrums as of late both in sales, as well as the current state of their lineup. Our last encounter with Infiniti was several years ago when we traveled out to California to check out the QX50. Since then, not much has happened, but that has all changed, with the luxury brand finally pulling the covers off of the 2022 QX55. FX inspired attitude defines QX55 design When it came to penning the lines …

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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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A yellow flash of fun, we check out the 2021 Toyota Supra four cylinder

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A legacy can be defined as something that is left long after the person or thing creating it is gone. For a long time, that also defined the Toyota Supra which was Toyota‘s pinnacle of budget focused performance. First appearing in the 1980s, the Supra really got into its groove in the 1990s, with the later turbocharged models making a name for themselves out on the street and on the track. However, shifting economic headwinds forced the Supra to exit our shores in 1998, and for awhile, that was the end of the story. But a new generation of buyers …

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Performance in its purest form, we check out the 2021 Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport

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Purity is often portrayed as being free of imperfections, flaws, and a clearer sense of self. This form of purity also extends out into the automotive world, where many cars try to achieve it, but only a select few can achieve it. One of these elite talents is the Bugatti Chiron hypercar. The Chiron made waves when it debuted back in 2018. With an 8.0 liter quad turbocharged W16 engine producing over 1400 horsepower, the Chiron was a clear step up over the Veyron, and had the 300 mph barrier firmly in its sights. Since then, the French bespoke luxury …

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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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Volkswagen doubles down on performance with 2022 Golf R, here’s four things to know about this newest R model

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Volkswagen is very keen to remind people that it’s still the benchmark when it comes to the hot hatch segment. While some were disappointed that the German auto giant did not bring the standard issue Golf to U.S. shores, execs revealed that the GTI and the Golf R were un affected by this edict. With the current generation GTI being unveiled awhile ago, Volkswagen has made things go full circle, with the firm revealing the 2022 Golf R. The new and improved R promises to make a big splash in the segment, and here are five key things that you …

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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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Buick grows Encore range with larger Encore GX, can it fill sales niches for luxury brand?

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Buick is now an all SUV brand. With the demise of the Regal and the slow selling Cascada convertible, the venerable luxury marque has now betted all of its chips on SUV and CUV models. A key part of this strategy is to do what rivals are doing, and try to find new niches or holes in the lineup to fill. In this instance, Buick had an opportunity to fill a hole in between the smaller Encore and the Envision models with the all new Encore GX. This model promises more luxury, capability, and the compact size that buyers still …

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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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Volvo swings for the fences, but comes up a tad short with 2020 Volvo S60 T5 R-Design

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When Volvo announced that it was preparing the all new S60, we were curious to see how it would fare out in the real world. The S60 represents the most serious effort that Volvo has put into dethroning segment benchmarks like the BMW Series, Mercedes C-Class, and the Audi A4. But while the rapid growth of crossovers has indeed put some pressure on this segment, the stakes are still very high in the luxury sport sedan segment, and bragging rights are still the ultimate trophy to strive for. But does the S60 have the tools to do what no other …

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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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2021 BMW 4-Series convertible breaks cover, features giant grille and canvas convertible top

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The 2021 BMW 4-Series certainly made waves when it first debuted thanks in part to its gigantic twin kidney grilles, as well as some of the technology improvements that the model brings to consumers. With the coupe having its time in the spotlight, BMW has decided to address the needs of sun lovers with the unveiling of the 2021 BMW 4-Series convertible. While the front fascia continues to dominate the narrative with the fore-mentioned grilles (a throwback to vintage BMW offerings) the convertible also makes a big change for 2021, with the hardtop being pitched for a lightweight canvas piece. …

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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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Ford Ranger gains all new Tremor model, has ZR2 and TRD Pro in its sights

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When Ford first dusted off the Tremor nameplate back in 2019, it did so by using the moniker for an all new off-road model based on the larger F-250 and 350 models (versus an older sport version of the F-150 that used it.) With the bigger Tremor model selling very well in Ford dealerships, it was only fitting to expand the package to the smaller Ranger model. The Tremor brings alot to the Ranger, and it should be a nice way to satiate the appetites of those that are still craving the Ranger Raptor variant. Buyers can equip the Tremor …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Shelby GT350R – The ultimate jack of all trades?

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The 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R is a very interesting elixr for many car enthusiasts. When we sampled it earlier this year at the M1 Speedway, we were immediately entranced with the serpent’s ability to deliver world class track performance. This includes having the muscle necessary to blast through long straights and the grip to find the apex every time. But how does the GT350R fare beyond an average track day, and is it worth paying the extra cost over a slightly cheaper base GT500? We we’re eager to find out.   Reptilian skin wows the neighbors, and Twister Orange …

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

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

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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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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 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 – 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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Honda Introduces 2020 Hunter Cub CT125, Aims To Dominate Leisure Bike Segment

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When it comes to a motorcycle that can be the equivalent of a swiss army knife, few can match the iconic reputation that comes bundled into the Honda Super Cub. An iconic mainstay that has been in near continuous production since the mid 1950s, the Super Cub has evolved over the years to maintain the simplicity and ruggedness that has defined the marque, but adding new technology along the way. Fast forward to 2020, and Honda has once again significantly upgraded the venerable Cub with the unveiling of the all new Hunter Cub CT125. The Hunter Cub returns after a …

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2021 Hyundai Elantra Brings Sonata Inspired Styling, Technology, And Hybrid Model To Nameplate

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Hyundai has been on a massive roll as of late, with the South Korean car company recently launching the revamped 2020 Hyundai Sonata as well as adding more crossovers into the fold. But the company is now rolling out the next phase of its bold plans, with the unveiling of the 2021 Hyundai Elantra. Unveiled via livestream due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, the virtual unveiling did little to blunt some of the radical styling changes that Hyundai designers have made to the Elantra for the new model year. The pointy stubby look of the current car has been pitched, …

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2021 Volkswagen GTI Brings New Styling, Power Bump To U.S. Consumers

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Volkswagen might not be bringing the entry level Golf here in the U.S. but that does not mean the German company is leaving performance hungry buyers high and dry. Volkswagen is bringing the GTI and the R models to the U.S. with the company using the Geneva Motor Show to showcase the eighth generation GTI. The design of the outgoing GTI is certainly a tough act to follow, with the seventh generation model blending a balanced recipe of refinement and performance into a sensibly designed package. The eighth gen model largely sticks to this proven script, but adds new touches …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Lincoln Corsair Reserve – By Carl Malek

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When we concluded our time with the Lincoln Aviator, we mused that perhaps Lincoln had finally found the missing ingredient towards long term success in the luxury utility market. But while the Aviator has managed to make a big splash for offering buyers a world class interior, impressive performance, and three row capability. It cannot shoulder the burden of Lincoln’s broader goals alone, and needs a supporting actor to help it in this regard. Enter the all new Corsair which aims to help broaden Lincoln’s appeal in this key arena. Replacing the long running and equally long in the tooth …

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Aston Martin Unveils Vantage Convertible, Touts World’s Fastest Convertible Roof

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The current generation Aston Martin Vantage certainly has the goods to be a good sports coupe. With curvaceous styling, newly improved technology, and a spirited twin-turbocharged V8 under the hood the Vantage can finally be considered a legit competitor in the sports car ranks. However, the one thing that has always missing from this iteration of Vantage is the ability to drop the roof. Aston Martin was keen to rectify that problem, and has formally unveiled the all new 2021 Vantage roadster. Dropping the Volante moniker for the first time ever, the roadster adopts many of the same styling cues …

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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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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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Bentley Marks Retirement Of Mulsanne Sedan With All New 6.75 Edition

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The Bentley Mulsanne was designed to be a throwback to the days when big four door sedans were the flagship offerings in Bentley’s stable of ultra luxury vehicles. But with the Bentley Flying Spur stealing relevance and sales away from the Mulsanne, Bentley is finally pulling the plug on the big four door. Before it does, the British luxury car maker is saying goodbye with the introduction of the all new 6.75 liter Edition Mulsanne.   Bentley will be building only 30 examples of the 6.75 liter Edition, with the 6.75 portion of its name being a nod to the …

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

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

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Could This Be The Long Rumored McLaren Senna LM? New Evidence Emerges Via Social Media

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McLaren is typically very predictable when it comes to the way it unveils its Ulitmate series of supercar offerings. For those that need a brief recap, the Ultimate series is designed to push the envelope of performance, and the models in this series often incorporate many race proven technologies into their designs. The first of these offerings was the legendary McLaren F1 which helped define the 1990s, and it gave birth to the track only McLaren F1 GTR. Per racing regulations at the time, that beast spawned the road legal McLaren F1 LM. This continued with the P1, with McLaren …

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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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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 Jaguar F-Type Brings Handling Improvements, Updated Styling To Already Popular Two Seater

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The Jaguar F-Type made quite a splash when it first appeared in the first half of the decade. With an all new design language that was a visceral injection of freshness not only into the segment, but also into Jaguar itself, the F-Type rode on a massive rocket that shot it into the stratosphere of sales success (taking the bigger and aging XK convertible out of its misery in the process.) But like all good things, even this stylish feline is in need of a comprehensive update, and Jaguar has finally delivered the goods with the unveiling of the revamped …

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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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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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Road Test Review – 2019 Polaris Slingshot SL – By Carl Malek [Videos]

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Ever had a sense of adventure? That feeling where you want to go off and try something radically new? That’s how we felt when it came to the Polaris Slingshot. This author has always been very interested in the world of three wheeled cycle cars, but the Slingshot remained an elusive quarry. We got a chance to get a taste of this special Polaris back in February, but the indoor setting and the low speeds that came with it did not give us a good opprotunity to formally get to experience all the things that the Slingshot brings to the …

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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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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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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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Mclaren GT By MSO Turns Up The Opulence For McLaren Buyers

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McLaren made waves recently when it unveiled the 2020 McLaren GT, which aimed to breathe new focus and direction into McLaren’s ambitions of being a proper GT car. However, while the GT is a very compelling offering in its own right, it’s also an open canvas that is welcome to new ideas and custom interpretations. McLaren’s in house tuning firm MSO has taken a crack at the GT, and has formally revealed its version of the two door grand tourer ahead of its formal debut at Monterey Car Week on August 28th. Known as the McLaren GT by MSO, the …

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2020 Shelby GT350R Debuts, Borrows Tricks From Big Brother GT500

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When we last met the 2019 Shelby GT350, It was at Michigan’s M1 Concourse Speedway in Pontiac, Michigan where we had the chance to experience some of the track focused charms that this delectable serpent brings to the lucky buyers that can add one to their garage. However, a notable absence was its upgraded sibling the GT350R. Ford has rectified that wrong, and has formally unveiled the 2020 Shelby GT350R which not only benefits from Ford’s track experience, but also pulls a few plays out of the GT500 playbook. Buyers looking for a radical styling evolution will not find it …

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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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Road Test Review – 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody – By Carl Malek

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When it comes to reliving your youth, there are very few vehicles that are able to do it so well like the Dodge Challenger. While it’s underpinnings are based on a Mercedes platform that was first given to Dodge during the shotgun marriage that was known as the Daimler-Chrysler era, that particular factoid has not stopped the burly two door from being an ongoing success for the brand. This is partially due to the sheer flexibility that exists in the LY platform itself, with Dodge engineers being able to seamlessly create numerous iterations of the Challenger over the years (including …

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Ford Unveils Next Chapter Of GT Performance With Track Only 2020 GT MK II [Videos]

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When we last checked in on Ford’s upcoming variant of its GT supercar, it was via a shadowy teaser image that gave few answers, and left us asking a lot of questions on what exactly Ford was up to? Fast forward to today’s unveiling at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and the blue oval has unveiled the next evolution of GT performance which it calls “the ultimate GT” offering. Dubbed the GT Mk II, it embraces this fresh start in earnest by throwing out any intent of being a road legal offering (though we suspect that won’t stop some of …

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Track Test Review – 2019 Acura NSX – By Carl Malek

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When the Acura NSX originally made its debut back in 2016, Acura was keen on reestablishing itself as a technological leader, while also breathing new life into arguably one of its most iconic nameplates. The reborn NSX proved to be a spirited offering, and smashed any doubts that were cast on it with its impressive performance numbers, smooth hybrid technology, and being a futuristic shot of adrenaline for buyers looking for something different from the usual Porsche and even Ferrari powered tonics that were out in the marketplace at the time. But like all good things, even the NSX can …

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Road Test Followup – 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate – By Carl Malek

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When we last met the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, it was on its home turf in Alabama, where we had a chance to sample some of the reworked engineering, styling, and performance that went into making this iteration of Santa Fe a true standout in Hyundai’s growing SUV lineup. This time around, we had the opportunity to check out the Santa Fe on the familiar roads that dot our Metro Detroit branch to see if its southern infused charm can translate into a truly capable offering that can bring the best of both worlds to eager SUV buyers.   Functionally …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Kia Optima SX Turbo – By Carl Malek

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Kia has been on a roll as of late. Led by the Kia Stinger, the sleek four door sport sedan helped change peoples perception of the Korean car brand. Once known for making budget focused entries that eschewed style and performance for the sake of a low price tag, the Stinger showed the world that style, performance, and technology have become the new pillars for future Kia products going forward. The Stinger’s DNA has begun trickling down to other members of the Kia lineup including the 2019 Kia Forte, as well as the reworked 2019 Kia Optima. But can the …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Toyta Avalon Limited Hybrid- By Carl Malek

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When it comes to big sedans, few can come close to matching the unique arsenal of traits that the venerable Toyota Avalon brings to the table. Focusing on providing comfort and borderline luxury to its owners, the Avalon is a key name in the large sedan segment. But with schools of CUV and SUV models circling this iconic segment like sharks, the Avalon faces turbulent waters in its quest to remain true to its virtues. Despite this (as well as the success of its own utility offerings) Toyota is still keen to be a key player in the sedan segment, …

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Road Test Followup – 2019 Ram 1500 Longhorn 4X4 – By Carl Malek

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Remember back when pickup trucks were once designed to excel in functionality and utility, but often without too many creature comforts for their occupants? I still have memories of growing up alongside my brother, and going out on family outing and trips with my dad’s 1993 GMC Sierra SLE. It could haul all kinds of cargo, and the 4.3 liter V6 was a crude but stout beast. However, the blue cloth interior, cramped rear seat, and no frills layout did little to enhance comfort for passengers. This humble truck also highlights the rapid evolution that both the iconic pickup truck …

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Refreshed 2020 Audi TT-RS To Debut In New York

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It’s not too often that an automaker is tasked with making changes to arguably an already perfect offering, but the engineers at Audi were assigned with the unenviable challenge of updating what is arguably one of their best performance offerings for the 2020 model year, the TT-RS, and thankfully, they were able to make just enough changes to help it stay fresh, but without tainting the formula that has helped make the TT-RS a compelling buy among well heeled enthusiasts. At first glance, the changes might be hard to spot, with the 2020 TT-RS retaining a lot of the purposeful …

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