Nothing Special   »   [go: up one dir, main page]

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

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

Keep reading

2025 Ford Expedition SSV Celebrates 75 Years of Law Enforcement Success

The all-new 2025 Ford Expedition debuted back in October with the big SUV getting a massive overhaul inside and out. But while traditional consumers were pleased with the changes, the SSV version was still based on old bones. That’s now changing however, with Ford revealing the 2025 Expedition SSV which brings many of the same updates to law enforcement buyers. Expedition SSV looks to step out of the shadows The Expedition SSV has been on the market for a long time, but you would be forgiven if you didn’t know that with the smaller and more popular Explorer Police Interceptor …

Keep reading

Wellborn Musclecar Collection at Mecum Florida 2015 Auctions 54

The Lifecycle of a Junk Car: From Your Garage to Being Recycled

A junk car sitting in your garage or driveway may seem like a useless relic of the past. However, these vehicles hold hidden value and potential for transformation. Understanding the lifecycle of an old vehicle provides insight into the processes that ensure these unused machines are put to good use while minimizing environmental harm. When you choose a professional recycling service like https://junkcarsus.com/, the journey of your junk car becomes efficient, responsible, and rewarding. Such companies handle every step, from collection to final recycling, with precision and care. This ensures your old auto contributes to environmental conservation rather than adding …

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

Maserati and Sparco Release New Racing Gear In Collaboration

Maserati has always been known for pushing the envelope of design and performance when it comes to its linup of vehicles. The MC20 is the spearhead of this push but while having the right vehicles to draw plenty of stares is one part of the ownership experience, Maserati knows that some of their buyers take their vehicles out on track days and as such, having a good set of stylish clothing is a must to help cement the image that the Italian brand is trying to project. This need fueled a new partnership between Maserati and Sparco for a new …

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

Volvo’s New Safety Tech: What To Expect By 2035

Volvo is a car company obsessed with safety. The company is famous for telling its customers that it wants to eliminate fatalities in its vehicles by the end of the decade, allowing it to do what no other firm has done so far. But is such an ambition realistic? Well, if the company’s own timeline is to be believed, then the answer is “yes.” Volvo is highly likely to develop new and profound technology before 2035, much of which seems futuristic, even from today’s AI-dominated perspective. Advanced Sensor Technology The lowest-hanging fruit will likely be the inclusion of more advanced …

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

5 Things to Know About the 2024 Kia Forte GT

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

Keep reading

2024 Kia Forte GT review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

Range Rover SV Candeo Oozes Bespoke With Solid Gold Badging

Range Rovers are known for their rugged off-road capability and their high levels of luxury. But in recent years, style and luxury have gradually taken center stage as Land Rover recently split its models off into three distinct family trees. The Range Rover is the style-focused one and the brand has used Design Miami as the place to debut the all-new Range Rover SV Candeo Edition. Gold badging ups the bling At first glance, the Candeo Edition looks like your average SV model and you would be forgiven if you think nothing is amis. But look at the badging of …

Keep reading

5 Things to Know About the 2024 Lexus NX450h+ F SPORT

1. It’s a powerhouseWith a combined 304 horsepower, it scoots to 60 mph in under 6 seconds. Plenty quick! 2. It can be an EVWith a full charge of the battery pack, you can go up to 36 EV-only miles before the hybrid system kicks in. 3. It has a shift lever. Ok, maybe a small thing, put with pushbutton transmission controls (Acura), stalk controls (Hyundai) becoming more popular, we’re still thrilled to find an actual shift lever in a vehicle! 4. It has a volume knobYeah, like the shift knob, we’re sticklers for certain old-school tech that still works …

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

5 Things to know about the 2024 Toyota Sequoia

1. It’s a beast You won’t be missing the old V8. Standard is a twin-turbo, 3.4-liter V6 plus an electric motor that pumps out an impressive 437 horsepower and jaw-dropping 583 lb.-ft of torque. That helps you tow up to 9,250 lbs. – another big number! 2. It’s efficient, too The hybrid system pays off in efficiency, with a thrifty combined EPA rating of 20 mpg. Even with lead-footing it, and mostly around town driving we still averaged 18.5. 3. It’s seriously capable Serious about off-road? A TRD Off-Road package is offered, with unique wheels, off-road suspension with Bilstein shocks, …

Keep reading

2024 Toyota Sequoia Limited review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

Jaguar Rolls The Dice On Rebrand, Can It Silence The Doubters?

Jaguar made waves when it unveiled a bizarre teaser video that initiated a brand reset for the British luxury car company. Images of heritage, history, and performance gave way to images of abstract images, bizarre colors, and a small group of serious/sad-looking models doing strange things. So far, reactions from around the world have been negative with many critics saying that Jaguar has gone off course.  That said, is this brand reset the renewed injection of vigor that Jaguar needs, and if it is, can it help Jaguar be a viable contender in the EV segment as it attempts to …

Keep reading

Hyundai Goes Big On Space With All New Ioniq 9

Hyundai’s push into the electric vehicle wars has been very impressive with the company already releasing the Ioniq 5 and 6 with the duo being rolling examples of Hyundai’s advanced EV technology in action. But while both of these models deliver the goods when it comes to competing against their respective rivals, the one thing that the EV lineup as a whole lacked was an offering that could be a true family hauler like the gas-powered Palisade.  Hyundai is out to rectify that problem with the all-new Ioniq 9 which will be the first attempt that Hyundai has made into …

Keep reading

5 Things to Know About the 2024 Kia EV6 GT

1. It’s fast.The numbers are gargantuan – press the neon green GT button on the wheel, and it calls up 576 horsepower and 545 lb.-ft of torque. 0-60 mph in a jaw-dropping 3.4 seconds! 2. Range is up for 2024Anything that reduces range anxiety is good by us. The GT is now rated at an EPA-estimated 218 miles of all-electric range – an improvement of 12 miles over the 2023 EV6 GT. Not the furthest, but certainly livable. 3. It even charges fastWith a 350 kW DC fast charger, you go from 10-80% battery charge in just 18 minutes. A …

Keep reading

Hyundai Gives Elantra N The Wing Treatment With New TCR Edition

Hyundai’s Elantra N is the proverbial bad boy in the affordable performance vehicle segment. Its spunky 270 hp four-cylinder engine and race-ready good looks have made it one of the best values in the segment today. But what if you’re a buyer who thinks all of this is not enough and you want something that’s even closer to the track-ready script without the whole process of not making it street-legal? Hyundai thinks it has found the proverbial middle ground with the all-new Elantra N TCR Edition which adds a new halo model to the Elantra range and also hints at …

Keep reading

2024 Kia EV6 GT review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

5 Things to Know About the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

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

Keep reading

2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

Road Test Review – 2024 Toyota Supra 45th Anniversary Edition

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

Porsche Outlaws: Stuttgart Hot Rods Book Review

Porsche Outlaws: Stuttgart Hot Rods – Book Review

Porsche Outlaws: Stuttgart Hot Rods by Michael Alan Ross For the latest Car Revs Daily Book review, we are tackling Porsche Outlaws: Stuttgart Hot Rods by Michael Alan Ross. As automotive enthusiasts and consumers we’re hard pressed to find any automotive books that do not include Porsche. The German manufacturer is a behemoth with global influence and recognition. However, Michael Alan Ross found a wonderful segment that needs a collective spotlight – the Porsche aftermarket tuners and builders.  Porsche Outlaws is a collection of notable (not exhaustive, that would be nearly impossible) tuners and builders in one beautiful book. There …

Keep reading

5 things to know about the 2025 Honda Ridgeline:

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

Keep reading

Insider: Choosing The Right Company Car For Your Small Business

Choosing the right company vehicle for your new startup is a significant decision. You’re not just selecting a vehicle; you’re choosing a representation of your professionalism, a reliable asset that meets your needs, and, most importantly, an affordable investment that puts you in control of your finances. With over 32 million commercial vehicles on the road, finding the perfect one for you is not a chore but a calculated business decision.   Like buying a car for personal use, a business vehicle needs to be considered more carefully so that you can use it for your business and purchase your …

Keep reading

2025 Honda Ridgeline Black Edition review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

BRABUS Classic Mercedes-Benz Restoration Examples - As-New Cars of Any Age 13

How To Approach Your First Vehicle Restoration

Restoring a car that has seen better days is a project that pretty much defines the word “ambitious”. There are so many elements to a working car that anyone who chooses to take a dilapidated vehicle and bring it back up to scratch (or beyond) is really backing themselves. What we’re saying is, it’s not going to be easy – but it can be a lot of fun and extremely worthwhile if you go about it in the right way.   What is the right way? Well, to some extent it depends on a range of factors, most importantly your …

Keep reading

Top Tips For Boosting Your Truck’s Reliability And Power

Owning a truck isn’t just about having a handy vehicle that can get you from A to B – owning a truck is about having a vehicle that you can rely on to handle anything that comes its way (sometimes literally) and that can get you where you want to go safely, comfortable, and ideally also cost-effectively. That could be going off-road, it might be hauling heavy loads, or maybe you just like taking long road trips in it, but whatever you use your truck for (including everyday driving if you prefer), you’ll need it to do what you want …

Keep reading

Hyundai and Toyota Announce Success of Debuting Performance Car Festival

Hyundai and Toyota promised to make waves when the two auto giants confirmed that they would team up to produce a performance car festival that was supposed to bring two typically separate camps together for the greater good of promoting performance vehicles. The first-ever “Hyundai N x Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival” that resulted was a success and it could help plant the seeds for further partnerships moving forward between the two companies.  A bold idea The Festival would have seemed like a pipedream several years ago due to Hyundai and Toyota typically being heated rivals especially in performance racing with …

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

Rolls Royce Builds Rolling Homage To Goldfinger

Rolls-Royce is always known for never declining the opportunity to challenge itself, especially when it comes to building one-off custom creations. In this case, the company completed a build that took over three years to complete with the one-off paying tribute to the iconic James Bond film Goldfinger Paying homage in style The Rolls Royce Phantom takes center stage in this build but the exterior is meant to pay homage to the 1937 Rolls Royce Phantom III owned by the movie’s antagonist (sorry James you get to sit this one out) Aurich Goldfinger. The exterior gets matching gold and black …

Keep reading

2025 Acura RDX A-Spec Advance review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

Hyundai Builds Bonkers RN24 Drift Machine To Serve As Rolling Lab

When Hyundai first started its rolling lab series in 2012, the goal was to create vehicles that not only helped draw plenty of attention to them, but also helped the company understand the finer aspects of driving as the Korean car giant prepares to boldly expand its presence in the EV landscape. The latest member of the series is perhaps the most utterly bonkers one of them all with the company unveiling the all-new N RN24 a wild drift machine that’s supposed to help the company probe the sheer limits of performance driving while also giving the N brand a …

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

2016 Lexus RX350 F Sport 27

Brilliant Ideas to Refresh Your Driveway

Upgrading your driveway may not have been on your list of things to renovate in your home this year, but that’s usually because looking at driveway ideas may not be as exciting as choosing a paint color for your new kitchen or tearing up the furniture in the walls so that you can replace all the cabinetry. The thing is, the driveway is one of the most aesthetic areas of your home. So if your driveway looks bad, the impression is that your home is going to look bad on the inside. It also gives the impression you don’t care …

Keep reading

2024 Toyota RAV4 Off-Road review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

MINI Launches First John Cooper Works EVs, Aceman Gets The Call For JCW Duty

MINI’s push into electrification has done a good job turning heads with the quirky British brand attempting to inject some of the magic that its ICE models are known for into EVs which are typically known for their ability to save the planet versus their performance-driving character. However if the first wave of MINI’s newly launched JCW EVs are to be believed at face value, the brand may be on to something with MINI confirming that it’s not only making an electric JCW version of the familiar Cooper SE but also the recently launched Aceman EV. Cooper JCW EV is …

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

Lexus Ups The Stakes With 2025 Lexus LX700h and Overtrail

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

Keep reading

Acura Teases ADX Crossover, Promises Higher Levels Of Tech

Acura is preparing to debut the 2025 ADX in a few months with the new entry-level crossover promising to fill a hole in the brand’s model lineup. While the company is not quite ready to unveil the model in full just yet, several new teaser images appear to confirm that the ADX will attempt to blur the lines of performance and style when it debuts in a few months. ADX fills the void Our glimpse of the exterior was limited to a single shadowy image of the rear lighting which suggests it will follow the brand’s current design language with …

Keep reading

Toyota and Hyundai Confirm Joint Performance Car Showcase Event, Is It Sign of Broader Partnership?

Toyota and Hyundai are normally heated rivals in the performance car wars with the two firms offering performance vehicles that often go toe to toe with one another out on the track. However, this rivalry also doesn’t mean that the two can occasionally collaborate on certain projects. That includes events with the two companies recently confirming that they will be working together to host a performance car event. Toyota and Hyundai announce rare team up The event in question is called the “Hyundai N x Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival” with the event being a rare case of detente between the …

Keep reading

2025 Kia Niro EV Wave review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

2025 Ford Expedition Brings Full Redesign To Rugged Family Hauler

The Ford Expedition has always been a persistent thorn in the side of rivals like the Chevrolet Suburban and the Toyota Sequoia. The big Ford promised to bring buyers capability, comfort, and towing power to full-size SUV buyers. However, the model was also starting to show its age even after a mid-cycle enhancement a few years ago. Ford has finally addressed this flaw with the 2025 Ford Expedition which helps the SUV fall in line with rivals and brings new levels of refinement to the nameplate as the company continues to play its cards right in its attempt to lure …

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

2025 Subaru Forester Sport review by Ben Lewis

Along with the Outback and Crosstrek, Subaru has one of the most popular SUV lineups available. So, when they announced an all-new Forester, you know we had to give it a test. Does the all-new keep the Forester at the top of the SUV pack?  Let’s find out! Familiar but Fresh While Subaru says this is an all-new design, it looks very Forester to us – no problem as we’ve always liked the sharp, capable vibe. Up front, the fascia echoes the traditional Subaru pentagon-shaped grille, which now looks further pushed out to the corners, while two-tiered LED compact headlights …

Keep reading

2026 Cadillac Vistiq Shows Off Lighting In Exclusive Photos

It has been a bit since we heard about the Cadillac Vistiq EV which was supposed to be the proverbial middle child in Cadillac’s EV lineup with the model being slotted between the smaller Lyirq and the flagship Escalade IQ. While the aforementioned Lyriq and Escalade IQ have had their time to shine in the spotlight, the Vistiq has been more camera-shy, with GM’s perfectly crafted press photos being our best glimpse at it beyond occasional sightings out in the wild by observers. We recently had a chance encounter with the Vistiq ourselves in Metro Detroit and it appears that …

Keep reading

The Perfect Sunglasses for Classic Cars from James Bond Films

With each new film, the James Bond brand introduces products that reflect its debonair image, from tailored suits to the latest luxury vehicles. A recent example of this cross-industry collaboration is the Triumph Scrambler 1200 Bond Edition motorcycle, which was launched alongside the latest Bond film No Time To Die (2021). Featuring 007 logos, Bond Edition badging, and gold accents, this bike embodies the blend of luxury and function that is central to the Bond universe.   But beyond the expensive motorcycles, the James Bond films are best known for their stunning array of classic cars, which often take center …

Keep reading

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 1958 review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

Ford Engineering Lab Celebrates 100 Years, Promises To Be A Beacon of The Future

Ford is throwing a party as the company celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Ford Engineering Lab with the historic facility getting a full renovation that breathes new life into the space while also maintaining its strong links to the past. It’s these links to the past that not only help inspire a new generation of Ford’s brightest engineers but also shows that Ford is ready to accelerate into the future. Don’t judge a book by its cover At first glance, you would be hard-pressed to think that any such renovation even happened with the building keeping its classic Albert …

Keep reading

Chevrolet Equinox EV Owners Face Massive Repair Delays

The Chevrolet Equinox EV was supposed to be the spearhead of a broader stab at the mass market for the brand with the Equinox and the Blazer EV attempting to lure in more buyers that would feel comfortable making the jump to an EV, but were turned away by high price tags and an initial emphasis on the luxury vehicle segment. The Equinox EV in particular has proven to be a steady seller for the brand, but is there a problem brewing under the surface? A growing number of Equinox EV repair delays raises concerns According to a new report …

Keep reading

Lotus Theory 1 Concept Boasts Wild Doors, Central Seating Position

Lotus is embarking on a new chapter in its history with the British automaker preparing to move on from ICE-powered models like the Emira into a future where EVs like the Eletre will become the new normal. However, the company still has a wild side and it has decided to show off that bold spirit with its latest concept the all-new Theory 1 Concept. Theory 1 highlights future Lotus design Lotus says the Theory 1 is supposed to represent the brand’s design future with reports saying that it was partially inspired by the Esprit. The concept has a bold wedge-shaped …

Keep reading

2025 Mini Countryman S ALL4 review by Ben Lewis

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

Keep reading

First Production Cadillac Escalade IQ to Cross The Block At Barrett Jackson

Cadillac’s Escalade IQ sent a strong message that the brand was serious about embracing an all-electric future with the flagship EV SUV also teasing a shift in direction for the Escalade lineup as a whole once the refreshed ICE-powered model ends its production cycle. However, what if you’re looking to buy one and have perhaps seen an IQ or two cruising the grounds near a GM development facility?  Cadillac says that a chance to buy one will be happening but only if you have plenty of cash in your wallet and are willing to make the trip to the Barrett …

Keep reading

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

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

Keep reading

2025 Bentley Flying Spur Speed Embraces PHEV Performance

Bentley is embarking on a gradual transition towards an EV-only lineup with the brand still moving full speed ahead on its attempt to redefine its future. However, the British ultra-luxury brand also knows that a gradual move into EVs is needed to help their customers not feel rushed into an electrified vehicle and that’s why it has been focusing on adding more hybrid options to its existing lineup of ICE-powered vehicles. The latest model to get the treatment is the 2025 Bentley Flying Spur Speed which attempts to blend performance with efficiency to create a bespoke unified package.   Light changes …

Keep reading

Lucid Teases Cheaper SUV to be Sold Below Gravity

Lucid’s Gravity SUV is shaping up to be a key entry for the brand. The Gravity is the first time that the EV company has attempted to penetrate the EV segment and will help Lucid expand its sales. However, the company also knows that a smaller model will be needed in order for it to truly capitalize on the segment. The company has confirmed that such a model is indeed under development and even released a lone teaser image to provide interested buyers a glimpse of what’s to come. New SUV promises to deliver on style it’s not known what …

Keep reading