Reviews
392 articles in this category
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There's no denying that the Ford Maverick has been a smash hit for Ford, with sales increasing dramatically in its first 4 years on the market. At its base price, the Maverick is Ford's least pricey vehicle, but Ford has introduced a full range of trim lines, powertrain options, and colors so that customers can build the compact truck of their dreams. Focus ST Parts, Truck Platform For 2025, Ford introduced the Lobo trim for the Maverick, a sport oriented street-truck trim that reminis
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Ford raided Focus ST parts bin for 7-speed trans, sport brakes, torque-vectoring AWD. 238-hp EcoBoost delivers hot-hatch thrills in truck form. Starting at $37,625.
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Updated by Drew Dowdell- 19 comments
- 3,674 views
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Now that the Sonic and Cruze have launched, by all accounts, successfully, Chevy is eager finish up the upper two models in its family car lineup. This 2013 Malibu Eco marks the three quarter mark on this refresh project while the Impala awaits its turn for 2014. The outgoing Malibu was on the large end of the mid-size scale, nearly approaching big brother Impala in overall size. And, while not the most feature laden of family cars, it offered a good combination of space, performance,
August 20th, 2012
Drew Dowdell
Managing Editor - CheersandGears.com
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 39 comments
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Have you ever wondered what it would be to add all-wheel drive to a Prius? What about adding slightly more sport to a Corolla hatchback? Wonder no more as I can tell you some thoughts on the 2020 Toyota Prius AWD-e and Corolla XSE hatchback. Prius XLE AWD-e The Prius AWD-e powertrain is mostly the same as you'll find in the standard model - a 1.8L inline-four paired with an electric motor to provide an output of 121 horsepower. But, the e-AWD adds a second electric motor producing 7
Can small changes make big changes?
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 2 comments
- 3,898 views
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The last-generation Lexus LS felt a bit lost. It had many of the qualities of previous LS models, but it could not fully compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, and BMW 7-Series. People pointed out the somewhat plain design, lackluster performance of the V8 engine, or the confounding infotainment system as possible reasons. But I think the reason comes down to Lexus not having something that made the LS stand out. How do you right the ship of what many considered to be at one t
The 2019 Lexus LS 500 F-Sport pairs a 416-hp twin-turbo V6 with a stunning interior and sport-tuned suspension, making Lexus's flagship a genuine alternative to the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7-Series.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 2 comments
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When you're buying a luxury flagship sedan, you are making a statement to the world. Drive an S-Class, 7-Series, XJ, or other sedans and the impressions can range from being someone important to just having a lot of money. But for some people, they don't want their luxury sedan to make itself known to the world. They want to enjoy the features available on their sedan, but without making so much noise. That's where the Genesis G90 could make some inroads. Part of Hyundai's new luxury brand, the
The 2018 Genesis G90 3.3T Premium undercuts the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes S-Class by tens of thousands while delivering a pillowy ride, punchy twin-turbo V6, and a long list of standard equipment.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 8 comments
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There has been a common theme for most of the Cadillac vehicles I have reviewed over the past few years. They are always so close to being up there with the best, but there is one thing or trait that knocks them down. Such examples include interior appointments that don't match up with the price being asked, confusing infotainment systems, and engines that don't quite match up with the image being portrayed. This was floating around in the back of my head when a 2017 Cadillac CT6 Platinum rolled
The 2017 Cadillac CT6 Platinum 3.0TT pairs a 404-hp twin-turbo V6 with a luxury interior that finally puts Cadillac in the fight against the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes S-Class.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 257 comments
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The story of the Kia Sorento can be best described as an ugly duckling to a swan. The first-generation was a rough and tumble, body-on frame SUV. It had some questionable choices in terms of interior materials and the engines drank gas like it was going out of style. The second-generation Sorento became a bit more mature in a number of key areas such as design, fuel economy, and refinement. But it still was missing that one thing, something that could put it over the top. Now we have come to the
The 2016 Kia Sorento SXL T-GDI delivers an aspirational interior and smooth ride that punch well above Kia's price class, though turbo lag and a steep Limited price tag hold it back.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 6 comments
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Is the Honda Ridgeline a truck or not? Depends on to whom you ask this question. A truck person would say no since the Ridgeline isn't a body-on-frame vehicle. Instead, it uses a unibody platform from the Honda Pilot. A consumer would say yes because it looks like a truck and has all the attributes you would find on one such as a bed. I spent some time in a Ridgeline over the holidays to see if I could figure out the answer. Exterior Design The previous Ridgeline looked like an auto sh
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The 2017 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E trades body-on-frame toughness for unibody comfort, a clever in-bed trunk, and the best ride in the midsize truck class.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 4 comments
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The latter half of the oughts have seen the Detroit automakers come out swinging with their muscle cars. General Motors has gone crazy with the Camaro, while Ford keeps amping up the Mustang. Dodge has been quietly working on improving the Challenger for the most part - and of course introducing the Hellcat V8. But while the Hellcat has taken the spotlight for the Challenger, it has put other Challenger models in the shadow. That's kind of a shame since Dodge has worked on bettering the Challeng
The 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT 392 packs a 485-hp HEMI V8 into a muscle car that blends old-school attitude with a thoroughly modern interior and adjustable suspension.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 7 comments
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It seems a bit odd to be driving the Giulia Ti almost half a year on from spending a week with the high-performance Quadrifoglio. This felt like I had a nice slice of cake and was now facing a bowl of vegetables. Trying to keep an open mind on Ti was going to be difficult, considering the mixed opinions I had with the first Giulia. But I knew that I had to try. Exterior Design I actually prefer the toned-down nature of Ti Sport compared to Quadrifoglio as it lacks the aggressive bumper tr
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Quick drive review of the 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti Sport Q4 with the 280 HP 2.0L turbo, AWD, and sport-tuned chassis. How does the entry Giulia compare to the Quadrifoglio?
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 14 comments
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Expectation can be a very dangerous thing. You come into something thinking it will blow your mind and more often than not, it comes up short. That’s how I felt during the first few days into a loan of a 2019 Buick Regal GS. What was being presented didn’t match up with my experience. But over the week I had the vehicle, it began to grow on. That isn’t to say some issues need to be addressed. Exterior Design At first glance, you might think Buick decided to stick with a sedan shape. Bu
The 2019 Buick Regal GS Sportback promises sport-sedan performance with its 310-hp V6, AWD, and Brembo brakes, but delivers more grand tourer than Gran Sport. We review handling, interior quality, the 3.6L V6, and how it stacks up against the Kia Stinger GT and Volkswagen Arteon.We review the 2019 Buick Regal GS Sportback with its 3.6L V6, AWD, and Brembo brakes. More grand tourer than sport sedan, but is that a bad thing?
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 14 comments
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Reader Reviews are submitted by our readers of vehicles they test drive or rent. If you would like to submit a Reader Review (like our Chevrolet Trailblazer Reader Review), e-mail [email protected] First Impressions I recently had a current-gen Nissan Sentra as a weekly rental. I had driven one before, but it was the last-gen model, and I’ve reviewed it on this forum. This rental unit had slightly over 30,000 miles on it. I gave the last-gen model a mostly positive review f
A community reader reviews the 2023 Nissan Sentra SR sedan after a week-long rental, covering handling, interior quality, CVT performance, safety features, and how it stacks up against the Corolla and Civic.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 3 comments
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I was in a situation where I had rented a car – a category with a trunk – and there weren’t any available. Their running out of certain categories happens frequently nowadays. As such, I was assigned a 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer. This didn’t look like any of the Trailblazers I remember. For one, it was a lot smaller. It was also badged as AWD. I assumed there would be a Chevy 1.5L T I-4 under the hood. Previous Trailblazers of the New Millennium ran with a 4.2 L I-6, possibly the mode
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A reader's week with the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer AWD — a practical compact CUV with a 1.3L three-cylinder, 9-speed auto, and decent highway efficiency.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 7 comments
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Editor's Note - Reader Reviews are submitted by readers like you and reflect the views of the author. I went in to get a rental car and, as usual, the sedan I had rented was not available. I was going to get upgraded into a SUV and asked what was available. I was told about a Toyota Highlander and then a GMC Acadia was added to the short list. For whatever reason, the Toyota Highlander has never gelled with me and the Acadia had more things going for it that I like – a GM product, a vehi
I went in looking for a rental SUV and ended up with a GMC Acadia for a week. It wasn't my first choice, but it turned out to be a surprisingly solid family SUV with plenty of appeal. Here's what I found.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 7 comments
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If you were to ask me what midsize I would recommend for most people, I would say the Honda Accord. It may not be the most exciting or best looking midsize sedan on sale, but it gets the basics right. From a comfortable and spacious interior, to a powertrain delivers excellent power and fuel economy, the Accord got the basics right. I wasn’t sure if anyone could challenge the Accord. But on a cold December afternoon, a 2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium drove up for a week-long review. Could this b
Subaru's 2015 Legacy 2.5i Premium delivers better-than-expected interior design, comfortable seating, and thoughtful features. Often overlooked midsize sedan that offers solid value as a genuine Honda Accord alternative.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 4 comments
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I was upgraded in a rental contract and, while going up by one category is not a big deal, getting to try out the new hybrid Camry was somewhat of a big deal. The latest and current Camry only features hybrid powertrains. The base 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine, which was previously naturally aspirated, continues forward, but is assisted by an electric motor. To make the powering on and off work, a CVT is now the standard transmission, when Camry had an excellent 8-speed automatic transmission f
Toyota's all-hybrid Camry LE brings CVT transmission and real-world 45-51 MPG. Interior refresh looks better than last gen. But the trade-off in engaging driving feel is real.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 25 comments
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I’ve driven my fair share of Challengers on both extremes - from the standard V6 to the high-performance SRT and Hellcat models. But I never had any time behind the wheel of the R/T with its 5.7 V8. That changed in the summer when a bright orange Charger R/T Shaker was dropped off for a week. This allowed me to ask a question that has been sitting in my head for some time: Is the R/T the best bang for your buck in the Challenger family? The Shaker sets itself apart from other Challenger
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372-hp R/T Shaker vs Scat Pack: Nearly same price, but which is the better buy? One week test of 5.7L HEMI V8 with Performance Handling Group. Full review
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 5 comments
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The Kia Stinger has been one of the most hotly anticipated vehicles in recent years. Here was a model that promised to rival models from luxury brands in terms styling, performance, and handling at a lower price. It felt like Kia was bitting off more they could chew, but I was willing to give it a chance. After spending a week in a Stinger GT1, I have to say it delivers on most of those promises. Depending on where you look at the Stinger, the impression will range from something quite beau
And now for something completely different from Kia
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 33 comments
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By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com April 23, 2013 Well, that didn't go quite as planned… By the time you are reading this review, Toyota has introduced the new 2014 Highlander. I should have realized this when I was scheduling vehicles about a month ago, since this current generation of Highlander has been with us for about six years. But alas, I didn’t. Here’s the thing though: the current Toyota Highlander doesn’t look or even feel like its six years old. It
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- highlander
- toyota highlander
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We test the last year for the current Toyota Highlander.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 8 comments
- 4,824 views
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Today was a day of change, for almost 2 months I have been on a family home remodel project for my son and today he wanted to go check out the Kia EV9 that is making the rounds of the local Kia dealerships. My first impression was that Kia has nailed the traditional brick on wheels style of SUV that Americans should appreciate. I started at the front of the EV9 wanting to see the Frunk. Surprise, not as big as the F150 Lighting or GM's EV pickups but double, maybe even
America has had full size SUVs dominated by Detroit, how does Kia EV9 3 row SUV stack up?
Added by G. David Felt- 18 comments
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At an event in May, I got to spend some time with the 2020 Kia Telluride. The Telluride is an all-new model for Kia, though it is based on the Kia Sorento’s platform. Being a good bit longer than the 7-passenger Sorento, it is substantially roomier inside, allowing for 7 or 8 passenger configurations depending on trim level. The version I tested was the top of the line SX package with all-wheel drive and an additional Prestige Package. Kia makes standard a whole host of active safety equipmen
…Kia brings a credible challenger to the large SUV field...
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 75 comments
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4Runner Venture Edition Not much has changed outside since we last checked out the 4Runner in 2016. It still has a blocky and chunky look that helps it stand apart from other SUVs. This Venture model adds several goodies such as TRD wheels, blacked-out trim pieces, and a Yakima roof rack; perfect if you decide to go adventuring. Inside, Toyota has made a massive update to the infotainment system. A larger eight-inch touchscreen running an updated version of Toyota’s Entune system
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Driving around in Toyota's old school SUVs
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 30 comments
- 5,794 views
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As I landed in Denver, I was thinking about the long weekend ahead of me. I came to town to help some friends in a bad situation, the trip sponsored partially by their family. As I perused the car rental lot, there were loads of new Nissan Frontiers, Toyota 4-Runners and Tacomas, and of course the rows of mini-vans. But tucked in the back with a sign on top that said, "I'm Electric!" was a 2022 Kia Niro EV. With a mind on my sponsor's costs and knowing I'd be spending a lot of time in granola
Stupidly quick, but still a Kia economy car.
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Updated by Drew Dowdell- 2 comments
- 7,399 views
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The CX-30 certainly takes the cake for being visually distinctive. The flowing lines, taut proportions, and certain design traits like the narrow headlights make for an expressive model. There is a major downside to the CX-30's design; outward visibility. Due to the low roofline and thick c-pillars, rear visibility can be best described as looking out of a mailbox slot. Thankfully, all CX-30s get a backup camera, and Premium models and above get blind-spot monitoring. Inside, Mazd
A premium subcompact crossover?
Updated by William Maley- 14 comments
- 5,647 views
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Even though this shape has been around for a few years, the XC90 still looks very fresh. The minimalist boxy profile proudly shows off the various design traits such as the "Thor Hammer" headlights, slightly altered grille, and large wheels for the Inscription model. This was the first Volvo model where I felt slightly disappointed with the interior. Not because of the material choice or design, but rather the color. The black leather and dark trim make the interior feel cheap, not someth
Two Ways to Carry People and their Stuff By Volvo
Updated by William Maley- 3 comments
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The NX 300h does stand out in the crowd from other compact crossovers with a chiseled look: Deep creases along the side, angular headlights, and the distinct spindle grille. My tester came finished in an orange color which helps amplify various design traits. The NX is also spacious for a compact luxury crossover. There is plenty of legroom for both front and rear-seat passengers. Rear headroom is at a premium for tall passengers, especially when ordering the optional panoramic sunroof.
Lexus' Hybrid Theory of Crossovers
Updated by William Maley- 7 comments
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Walking around the Venue, you become surprised at how small this crossover is. It comes in at 13 feet long and just under 6 feet wide, making it slightly smaller than the Accent sedan. The design is very chunky and boxy, which helps with maximizing interior space. The front has some interesting design traits such as a similar grille seen on larger Hyundai crossovers and a split headlight arrangement. With a large glass area and tall roof, the Venue feels very open and spacious. Fin
Looking at the smallest and largest Hyundai crossovers
Updated by William Maley- 10 comments
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For your consideration: Two unlikely sport sedans. The Toyota Camry TRD and Lexus ES 350 F-Sport may not seem like credible sport sedans at first glance. They may seem like tarted-up sedans in terms of looks, but nothing else. However, after spending a week in each one, I can say both are the real deal. Camry TRD This Camry is in your face about its sporting potential. It comes with a front splitter, side skirts, a distinct rear spoiler, and 19-inch TRD wheels with a matte blac
From the Mundane to Somewhat Exciting
Updated by William Maley- 23 comments
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There are some cars I will not turn down the opportunity to spend time with again. A prime example is the Mazda MX-5 Miata, a car that brings a smile to my face. This past fall, I had a chance to spend some time in a soft-top version and to figure out whether I would have this or the RF. What has changed since our last visit with Miata? Only a few things such as the addition of Mazda's i-Activsense suite of active safety features (automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and l
A convertible that brings a smile
Updated by William Maley- 20 comments
- 4,409 views
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I rarely get the opportunity to drive two different flavors of the same vehicle within a short timeframe. But that's what happened in the fall when I had the chance to drive the new Hyundai Sonata in its standard and hybrid forms. The Sonata has always been a favorite of mine as it offered a lot for a midsize sedan, with a surprising price tag. It has also come very close to being at the top of the class, but falling somewhat short due to one thing or another. This new version has the chance of
Two sides of the same midsize sedan coin
Updated by William Maley- 7 comments
- 9,544 views
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Despite being one of the best sellers in the luxury crossover class, the Lexus RX lacked something many competitors offered; a third-row option. Lexus rectified this a couple of years ago by stretching the RX's body and adding a third-row to create the RX L. I spent some time in the RX 350L Luxury back in the fall to find out if Lexus has another winner or if this a half-baked attempt. You can tell the difference between the standard RX to the longer L by looking for a floating roofline
Three-Row RX? Not so much.
Updated by William Maley- 5 comments
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Do you need a V8 engine in your flagship luxury sedan? That's a question I posed myself when a Genesis G90 equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine was dropped off for a week. The standard G90 with the twin-turbo V6 offers an impressive amount of performance and refinement. But the V8 offers much more power, along with some extra goodies you cannot get with the V6. Since our last visit with the G90, Genesis has given a bit of a facelift. The front end prominently features a new diamond-shape. I f
Is eight better than six?
Updated by William Maley- 5 comments
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Genesis has come a long way since it was spun off to its own brand back in 2015. We have heaped praise on the G80 and G90 sedans, but it needs to be noted that these were badged as Hyundais before becoming Genesis models. The real test would be seeing how an original model stacked up. Our chance came in the fall when a 2020 Genesis G70 3.3T Sport was dropped off for a week. This new entrant into the compact sport luxury sedan appears on paper to have the goods, but how would fare in the real wor
The Challenger from Korea
Updated by William Maley- 7 comments
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Considering the number of Lexus RC coupes I have driven over the years, there has been a significant hole - the V8 RC F. Whenever I have asked for one, the vehicle either wasn't in the press fleet or someone else was driving it during the dates I had available. But I was able to finally get my hands on one for a week in early fall. It was good timing as I was feeling the effects of being home for the past six months due to COVID-19. Maybe this coupe could give me a bit of joy. The RC F i
Finding a bit of V8 joy
Updated by William Maley- 16 comments
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The 86's exterior has undergone some significant changes. The most apparent is the front where the front bumper has been swapped to give the coupe a slightly more aggressive look. There are also new headlights with the "86" logo seen on the outside edge. These changes, along with a rear wing really help the 86 still look quite fresh. A feat when you take into consideration that this car, along with its sister, the Subaru BRZ has been around for eight years. The interior boasts a ne
Can a sports car act as a blank canvas?
Updated by William Maley- 6 comments
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Back in the spring, I spent some time with two different Volvo 60 series models - the S60 Momentum and V60 Cross Country. I came away impressed with the work Volvo had done, picking Cross Country as my favorite. A couple months back, another 60 series model rolled up for a week long evaluation. This one is very different. Unlike most performance wagons that grab a bullhorn and shout for attention, the V60 Polestar goes for a more sedate approach. From afar, it looks like your standard V6
Can a Volvo Wagon Be Wicked and Green?!
Updated by William Maley- 4 comments
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This week at the Cheers & Gears' Detroit bureau sees the 2020 Lexus RX 350L Lux come in for an interactive review. It has been some time since I last drove any version of the RX and it has gone some significant changes. The key one is the introduction of a three-row version - designated by the L at the end. Another welcome change is an introduction of a touchscreen for the Lexus Enform infotainment system. Power comes from a 3.5L V6 with 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. This
Lexus' popular crossover arrives for its interactive, with three-row seating!
Added by William Maley- 5 comments
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Next up for an interactive review is the most expensive Volvo I have driven, the 2020 XC90 T8 Inscription - as-tested price of $86,790 with a $995.00 destination charge. Sadly, there is no kitchen sink to find, but this vehicle is loaded. It has four-corner air suspension, 21-inch wheels, a Bowers and Wilkins audio system, massaging front seats, heated steering whee, captain chairs for the second row with heat, panoramic sunroof, and 360-degree camera. Power comes from the T8 plug-in hybrid
Volvo SUV? Check. Plug-In Hybrid? Check. Interactive Review? Check.
Updated by William Maley- 8 comments
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First off, sorry for not posting an interactive review last week. My day job kept me busy and I needed some time to recharge. Nevertheless, you'll be hearing more about the Lexus RC F and its yellow paint color in a few weeks time as a quick drive review. In the meantime, let me introduce to latest vehicle to enter C&G's Detroit garage, the 2020 Genesis G90 5.0 Ultimate. This packs a 5.0L V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic. M
One flat tire isn't going to stop our latest interactive review.
Added by William Maley- 15 comments
- 6,396 views
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Taking the place of the Toyota 86 this week at the Cheers & Gears' Detroit bureau is the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Limited. A car which I have been wanting to drive since it made its North American debut last spring at the New York Auto Show. The new model solves one of the biggest criticisms I had with the last-generation model, a very boring and plain design. Taking it out last night, I was noticing people glancing at this midsize sedan. Power comes from a turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder pr
A jaw-dropping midsize sedan arrives in C&G's garage for a weeklong evaluation
Added by William Maley- 77 comments
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Next up on the review vehicle playlist here at C&G's Detroit Bureau is the 2020 Toyota 86, a vehicle I haven't driven since it was called the Scion FR-S. A lot has changed with this model aside from its name since the one I drove back in 2013. The styling has been refreshed, various tweaks made the suspension, and minor updates to the interior. What hasn't changed is the 2.0L boxer-four from Subaru that produces 205 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. My test vehicle has the standard si
The model formally known as the Scion FR-S comes in for its interactive review
Updated by William Maley- 45 comments
- 7,561 views
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Taking the place of the Genesis G70 this week in the C&G Detroit Bureau is the 2020 Volvo V60 T8 Polestar. Aside from the long name, this Volvo gives us our first chance to check out the T8 powertrain. In Volvo terms, this is a 2.0L four-cylinder that comes super and turbocharged, and boasts two electric motors. This gives a total of 415 horsepower and 494 pound-feet of torque. It also gives the wagon an electric only range of 22 miles - something I'll be checking out once I get the battery
A mad Swedish Wagon arrives for a week-long review
Added by William Maley- 36 comments
- 9,388 views
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It has been a moment since any new vehicle has rolled into the garage at Cheers & Gears' Detroit office. A combination of a review backlog and COVID-19 messing up everything in the world made me put requesting vehicles for evaluation on the back burner. But with backlog finished and COVID-19 currently at a lull here in the state, I thought it was time to put a request in. The first vehicle in this run is the 2020 Genesis G70 3.3T Sport. To break it down, this is Genesis' entry-level mo
We Begin Our Next Round of Review Vehicles With the Smallest Genesis
Updated by William Maley- 12 comments
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The Toyota Tundra holds the title of being the oldest full-size truck, coming in at thirteen years without any sort of redesign. On one hand, this makes the Tundra a very reliable and dependable truck. On the other hand, the Tundra isn’t able to fully compete with the likes GM, Ram, or Ford with their more modern designs and hardware. But there is one exception to this where the Tundra can be a good alternative to the Detroit Three, and it comes in the form of the TRD Pro. Color can do a
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It is old, but still has some tricks.
Updated by William Maley- 94 comments
- 7,966 views
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When I was driving the 2020 Lexus GS in late February, rumors were flying around that the model would be discontinued at the end of the model year. There was some credence to this rumor as sales had been falling and Lexus hasn’t been updating the model to keep it somewhat up to date with competitors. It would sometime later that we learned that the GS would be going away at the end. So this is the last look at a sedan that I liked at the beginning but now have some mixed feelings. Not mu
One last drive before going away
Updated by William Maley- 7 comments
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I felt very mixed when I reviewed the Mitsubishi Outlander last year, There was a lot to like about the crossover, but the list of negatives pushed me towards recommending it if you could find one at a good price. How would I feel when I drove the Outlander PHEV? Spoiler: About the same. (Author's Note: If you're looking for thoughts on the interior, I will direct you to my Mitsubishi Outlander review from last year as the PHEV shares all of the positives and negatives from the standard mod
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A mixed bag in plug-in hybrid form
Updated by William Maley- 3 comments
- 5,347 views
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Nearly two years ago, I drove the then all-new Hyundai Kona crossover at a press event. It was a unique looking vehicle that was entering the growing subcompact crossover class. Out of the three Hyundai vehicles I drove, the Kona impressed me most with its performance and value for money. But if there is something I have learned over eight years with reviewing vehicles, is that I can’t take first impressions as final. It has been a long wait, but I finally got my hands on a 2020 Kona Ultimate AW
The crossover from Planet Nine
Updated by William Maley- 5 comments
- 5,871 views
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For the past decade, Acura has felt lost at sea. Not sure of what it wanted to be as a brand. This was shown by mixed messaging in their lineup as they weren’t sure to focus on luxury, technology, or sport. This muddled mess of identities would cause a fair amount of issues. But in the past couple of years, Acura started to get its act together thanks in part to new leadership. The first fruits of their efforts came last year in the form of the third-generation RDX. It has been over two ye
Acura starts to find itself again
Updated by William Maley- 121 comments
- 8,389 views
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Rarely, do I get the chance to drive different versions of the same model. The fleet companies I work with scheduling vehicles do their best to serve up a smorgasbord of vehicles for me to experience. But from time to time, things happen where one vehicle in a run has to be swapped because it needs to go home or is required for an important event. It happened to be that the stars aligned in such a way that two Volvo 60 series models would be swapped for various vehicles in this go around. So I f
A Tale of Two 60s
Updated by William Maley- 1 comment
- 4,954 views
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The landscape of midsize sedans was much different ten to fifteen years ago. All of them offered the choice of a four-cylinder and V6 engine. Today, it is a completely different story as most automakers that still offer a midsize sedan have dropped their V6 engines in favor of turbo-fours. But Toyota is bucking the trend by sticking with the V6 in the Camry. It seemed like a good time to ask whether or not there is a place for a V6 in the midsize class. The V6 in question is a 3.5L used
Do V6 engines still have a place in midsize sedans?
Updated by William Maley- 26 comments
- 27,668 views
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The redesigned Corolla Hatchback brought back something that was missing in the Corolla for a number of years; being somewhat interesting. With more expressive styling and a new platform that improves driving dynamics, the model has started to shed its image of being bland. But would this continue with the redesigned Corolla sedan? To find out, I spent a week in the top-line Corolla XSE. The basic profile is unchanged from the previous Corolla sedan, but Toyota has done their best to mak
Does the sedan follow the groove laid down by the hatchback?
Updated by William Maley- 27 comments
- 10,967 views
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Like it or not, crossovers are becoming the de facto choice for many buyers and automakers are responding. There is now a wide variety of crossovers available: From large three-row models to small, compact vehicles perfect for urban environments. The latter is what we’ll be focusing on this review with the latest entrant into subcompact luxury crossover class, the 2020 Lexus UX 200 F-Sport. It’s a late arrival to the class, but as I found out with the Volvo XC40 last year, that isn’t a bad thing
When is a crossover, not a crossover?
Added by William Maley- 79 comments
- 6,770 views
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Today saw the Lexus UX 200 F-Sport being swapped for this 2020 Volvo S60 T5 Momentum. This base model comes very well equipped with a LED headlights, panoramic sunroof, 10-way power seats12.3-inch display for the instrument cluster, and a 9-inch infotainment system. But this particular vehicle is loaded with over $9,000 in options including metallic paint, 19-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, Harman/Kardon audio system, and power trunk lid. This brings the price to $46,240 with destination -
..What do you want to know about this Swedish compact luxury sedan?..
Updated by William Maley- 6 comments
- 13,067 views
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This week marks my first review vehicle for 2020 - the Lexus UX 200 F-Sport. This one comes equipped with such items as F-Sport exterior package, 18-inch wheels, Lexus Enform with Apple CarPlay compatibility; Wi-Fi connectivity, and a 10-way power driver's seat. Options on this vehicle include blind spot monitoring, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, heads-up display, navigation, and a windhield de-icer - the last one being quite important as we had an ice storm roll through last night
..Lexus' smallest crossover comes in for a review and awaits your questions..
Updated by William Maley- 32 comments
- 5,493 views
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My wheels for the week are a 2020 Toyota Corolla XLE sedan. This one is well equipped with Toyota Safety Sense now standard, Toyota Entune with Apple CarPlay, Adaptive lighting system with automatic high beams, headed seats, and a JBL Premium audio system. It is rated for 29 city / 37 highway and we'll be putting that highway number to the test. We will be taking the Corolla to Northern Virginia for the weekend to visit family for the holidays. The XLE differs from the 2019 Corolla SE hatc
...What do you want to know about this most common of sedan?....
- Editor-in-Chief
Added by Drew Dowdell- 13 comments
- 12,269 views
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Hyundai can’t seem to stop itself from tinkering with the Santa Fe crossover. This is apparent when you consider the nameplate first debuted on compact crossover in the early 2000s before growing into a two-model family up until last year. Hyundai has made another drastic change to the Santa Fe by making it a single model again - the three-row Santa Fe XL has been replaced by the Palisade. Does this re-focus make the model competitive? The overall shape of the 2019 Santa Fe is more upright
...one surprisingly good crossover, with a slightly problematic engine...
Updated by William Maley- 32 comments
- 5,429 views
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Over a year ago, I pitted the Mazda CX-9 against the Volkswagen Atlas to find out which was the better three-row crossover. The CX-9 put up a good fight with a very luxurious interior and impressive driving dynamics. However, the Atlas took home the win as it proved to be the better carrier of passengers and cargo, along with providing a slightly smoother ride. A year on, the CX-9 makes a return to the C&G Detroit Garage to see if it could redeem itself. Spoiler alert: I still feel the same
- quick drive
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- 2019
- mazda
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...the outlier in the full-size crossover class...
Updated by William Maley- 7 comments
- 5,806 views
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The Toyota Corolla for the past couple of decades has been the poster child of the vehicle that just existed. All it was built to do was go from point a to b without any sort of enthusiasm. But Toyota is wanting to change that with the redesign of Corolla, starting with the new Corolla Hatchback. Has it worked? The Corolla Hatchback falls in line with recent Toyota models with a shouty design. A sloping front end features massive lower grille, slim daytime running lights, and headlights tha
...a Corolla that has some groove...
Updated by William Maley- 9 comments
- 4,678 views
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In the C&G garage for the week is the 2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited AWD with a sticker price of $47,605. This is Hyundai's newest SUV, at least until the diminutive Hyundai Venue takes its place at the other end of the size spectrum. The first impression I got from the Palisade was how big it is. Even though it is around 7 inches shorter than a Buick Enclave, it looks bigger and beefier. Being a Limited means that it is in top trim with only carpeted floor mats as an additional option. It
...my that's a big ship...
- Editor-in-Chief
Added by Drew Dowdell- 123 comments
- 11,310 views
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2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature Mazda is on a mission lately to make their products feel more premium. They have been tuning their vehicles to be quieter and more refined in order to give them an air that they are above their class. This second generation of the Mazda CX-5 debuted for the 2017 model year with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb.-ft of torque. For 2019, Mazda added the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine from the CX-9. On regular gas, the engi
...The compact crossover that checks all the boxes...
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 9 comments
- 3,759 views
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Trying to stay relevant in a class where various automakers have come out swinging is a difficult task. They boast more modern designs, improved performance, and more features. But in the case of the 2019 Kia Optima, this midsize still has a few tricks up its sleeve to keep it in contention. The Optima still makes its presence known thanks to an updated front end and the sloping roofline. One item that may cause some issues are the 18-inch wheels. The dual-spoke design and black painted
...despite getting up there in age, this midsize sedan can still challenge all...
Updated by William Maley- 4 comments
- 6,247 views
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In this week for a review is a 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature with the turbocharged 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine. This engine is shared with the Mazda CX-9 and Mazda 6 Turbo and produces 227 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft of torque on regular gasoline, but bumps up to 250 horsepower on 93 octane. All-wheel drive is standard. This is the most loaded of the CX-5 trims with only the paint ($300) and rear bumper guard ($125) as additional charges. That brings the MSRP to $38,360 after destination charge
...What do you want to know about Mazda's compact crossover?...
- Editor-in-Chief
Added by Drew Dowdell- 20 comments
- 5,381 views
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Automakers want to be first into a new segment for various reasons. They can become the icon for the class and grab a fair chunk of sales as competitors rush to get their models in. There is a significant downside to being first as it allows some of the competition to study and figure out where to improve on. This brings us to the 2019 Volvo XC40 which is the focus of today’s review. It was one of the late arrivals to the subcompact luxury crossover class, but it allowed the automaker to study a
..When being late to the party is a strength..
Updated by William Maley- 1 comment
- 4,077 views
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The X2 is BMW’s entry into the compact crossover vehicle segment. It’s based on the X1, but with a lower roofline and more car-like characteristics. While the base X2 28i comes with a 228 horsepower 2.0-liter engine with either front or all-wheel drive, I got my hands on one with the M badge at a meeting of the Mid-West Automotive Media Association at the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet Illinois. The M badge brings a default of BMW xDrive and increases engine horsepower to 302 and the torqu
...a lot of bucks for your bang...
- Editor-in-Chief
Added by Drew Dowdell- 25 comments
- 6,769 views
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The Volkswagen Arteon is the vehicle that effectively replaces the Volkswagen CC in VW’s lineup, however, it comes at the segment with a noticeably different approach. The Arteon is much more interesting looking than the old CC and comes as a hatchback rather than a sedan. I would hesitate to use the word “bold” about the Arteon’s looks, as feels rather conservative to me, but it still has a gravitas that lets passers-by know that this is not an ordinary Volkswagen. The front end has a lot
...is the successor to the CC up to the task?...
- Editor-in-Chief
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 8 comments
- 14,975 views
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What a difference that four years make. That's the timeframe from the first Kia electric I reviewed (Soul EV) to the model seen here, the 2019 Niro EV. So much has changed in terms of battery technology and overall range that I could see myself having an electric vehicle as a primary mode of transport. There are some still some issues that make me think twice, but they are getting smaller. Kia avoided the trend of going crazy with the Niro EV’s design. Little touches such as blue accent
Electric Cars Are Becoming Viable, Charging Is Another Story
Updated by William Maley- 5 comments
- 3,723 views
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I’ll admit that I have an unabashed love for the Mazda MX-5 Miata. This plucky roadster proves you don’t need gobs of power to provide a big grin when driving. A combination of well-sorted chassis, steering, and slick gearbox does the trick. But Mazda has decided to add a bit more power for the 2019 model, along with including a more powerful four-cylinder and a hardtop option. I’m curious to see if these changes can make the Miata better or worse. The model seen here is the RF - short f
A Miata for all-seasons, but at a hefty cost
Updated by William Maley- 5 comments
- 5,677 views
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When Toyota introduced the last-generation Avalon for the 2014 model year, I was shocked by how Toyota had built the better Lexus ES. On the surface, this seems a bit crazy. But Toyota had put a lot of effort into shedding the image of Avalon of an old person’s car by bringing a modern and sleek look; luxurious interior, and a balance between a relaxing ride and sporty dynamics. This became more apparent when compared to the ES launched a couple of years earlier, looking very dated in terms of l
Will the real Lexus please stand up?
Updated by William Maley- 7 comments
- 3,819 views
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The news about the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra have been constant barrage about how they aren’t doing so well in the sales charts. In fact, Ram has taken second place in overall truck sales from the Silverado. General Motors is quick to point that Ram has been increasing amount of money on the hoods of the 2019 Ram 1500, along with the last-generation model being sold alongside. But could there be more to this slump? What if the new Silverado and Sierra didn’t move the needle as far
...Trying to figure out why GM's new trucks aren't doing so well in the sales charts...
Updated by William Maley- 23 comments
- 4,379 views
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Seven years ago, I drove the previous-generation Mitsubishi Outlander for a week-long review. There was a lot to like about the previous model as it featured distinctive shape, comfortable ride, and being somewhat fun to drive. But in other areas, the model fell a bit flat. Poor material choices, firm ride, and the optional V6 engine feeling slightly lackluster. I ended my review with this, “Mitsubishi has shown a new Outlander at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. Underneath the Outl
When you need as much space as possible for little cash
Updated by William Maley- 5 comments
- 7,788 views
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The Kia Forte could never claim to be the best compact car, but its low price and a long list of equipment made it an interesting alternative choice to the stalwarts of the compact class. This approach has worked well with the Forte becoming one of the brand’s best selling models. Kia wants to change the fortunes of the Forte with third-generation by not fully relying on price and value. I spent a week in the top-line EX Launch Edition to see how it fares. The new Mazda3 is considered by m
...No longer relying on a low price to draw people in...
Updated by William Maley- 3 comments
- 6,714 views
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It feels weird to be writing a review of the previous-generation Mazda3 when the new model is currently sitting out front at dealers. But I find this situation to be unique because I had the chance to explore a 2019 Mazda3 to get some first impressions while working on a review of the 2018 model. This gives me a chance to compare the two in certain aspects, along with pondering the question of whether or not the previous model is still a good buy. Despite the new model taking the styling
Is the 2018 Mazda3 still worth it as the new one sits next to it?
Updated by William Maley- 4 comments
- 11,015 views
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I was a bit surprised when I got word that I would be spending a few days with a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross only a few weeks after doing a brief first drive. As I noted in my report, I came away pretty impressed with certain aspects of this latest contender in the compact crossover class. But there were some items that I needed more time to mess around with such as the infotainment system and powertrain. With a bit more time behind the wheel, how would Mitsubishi’s newest model fare? As I ta
...Making progress in the right direction...
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 7 comments
- 4,955 views
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As I'm writing this, Michigan along with various other states is under the grasp of a polar vortex. It is currently -6' F (the wind chill drops that to -29' F). I was keen on getting the driver who was dropping off my next test vehicle into the Silverado quickly so he could warm up. That vehicle is the 2019 Buick Regal GS. As much I would have loved to get my hands on the new TourX, I have a bit more experience with the GS. In 2015, I spent a week in the previous Regal GS and came away quit
The Buick Regal GS has come in a for a weeklong test. If you have questions, I'll do my best to answer them.
Updated by William Maley- 162 comments
- 18,871 views
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"I love it when a plan comes together." Hannibal from the A-Team. I wasn't expecting to get back into a review vehicle for some time as the Detroit Auto Show tends to reduce the number of vehicles available - they're reserved for those coming out-of-state and OEM representatives. I thought next month is when I would begin my rotation once again. But a surprise email this morning from General Motors asking if I was able to take a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado today. Of course! This particula
Have questions on the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss? I have one for the week and can try to answer them.
Updated by William Maley- 27 comments
- 10,316 views
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It has been a year since I first drove the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and came away very impressed. For a seven-passenger vehicle, getting 33 miles on electric power only and an average fuel economy of over 30 mpg was quite the shock. Would I still feel that way a year on? Chrysler made some minor changes for 2018 Pacifica Hybrid, including revamping the trim lineup and adding more standard features. In the case of our Limited tester, it gains a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system as sta
Revisiting the hybrid minivan
Updated by William Maley- 15 comments
- 5,260 views
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Last year, I had the chance to spend a week in a Fiat 124 Spider Abarth. While I found it to offer improved handling and a somewhat nicer interior over the Mazda MX-5 Miata it is based on, there were a few items that kept me from saying it was better - mainly the turbo engine and exterior design. A couple of months ago, I found myself in another 124 Spider. This time, it was the Lusso which drops a fair amount of the aggression from the Abarth, along with providing a softer suspension tune. Woul
- quick drive
- 2018
- fiat
- 124 spider
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How to make a Miata slightly softer
Updated by William Maley- 9 comments
- 5,219 views
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(Author's Note: Before diving into this review, I did an Afterthoughts piece on maximizing the fuel economy in the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk last month. If you want to see Trackhawk somewhat out of its element, then check out the piece here.) I keep a list of vehicles that I would like to evaluate on my computer. This list is what I reference whenever I reach out to automakers and inquire about getting vehicles. Some of the vehicles on the list only spend a short time, while others are there
- review
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- 2018
- jeep
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And for something completely absurd
Updated by William Maley- 2 comments
- 3,326 views
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A few weeks back, I attended an event at Hyundai’s technical center which resides outside of Ann Arbor, Michigan. The reason for my visit was to get a preview of what they’ll be showing at the LA Auto Show (which I’ll be able to talk about later today once the NDA lifts). But Hyundai also offered the chance to drive some of their latest products on a small drive route. I had the chance to drive three models; the Santa Fe, Kona, and Veloster. A quick note about this first drive report. You
- quick first drive
- first drive
- 2019
- hyundai
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Going from big to small
Updated by William Maley- 2 comments
- 4,218 views
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I happen to be a big fan of the Kia Soul. Its daring looks, spacious interior, and overall value make it an interesting option in the compact class. It seems many others would agree as the Soul is one of Kia’s best selling models. To help keep it up there, Kia has introduced a new turbo engine for the top-line Exclaim (!) model along with minor changes for 2017. Let's see how these changes affect the Soul. Aside from the turbo engine, Kia made some design tweaks to the Exclaim to have it
The end result of strapping rocket boosters to a hamster
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 69 comments
- 4,851 views
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The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV was originally supposed to arrive in the U.S. a few years back. But the launch would be pushed back as the model would prove to be quite popular in Europe, causing Mitsubishi to reallocate supplies. Now, Mitsubishi has finally started selling the Outlander PHEV in the U.S. Was it worth the wait? Much like the Eclipse Cross I posted a couple of weeks back, this first drive of the Outlander PHEV was quite brief. I only had about 15 to 20 miles of driving under my
- quick first drive
- first drive
- 2018
- mitsubishi
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It has been a long wait for the PHEV to arrive, has it been worth it?
Updated by William Maley- 1 comment
- 4,119 views
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I’m one of the few people who actually like the current Toyota Prius - I named it one of my favorite vehicles last year. It offers excellent fuel economy and noticeable improvements to the interior and handling. So what happens when you add a plug to it? You end up with the Prius Prime which is much better than the last-generation Prius Plug-In and makes for an interesting alternative to Chevrolet Volt if you happen to be on a budget. The regular Prius was already a model that you either
- quick drive
- 2017
- toyota
- prius
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Plug-In Prius, Take 2!
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 1 comment
- 1,929 views
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When Toyota introduced the Prius C back in 2012, it served two purposes. It was the entry-level model for then growing Prius family (Prius, Prius Plug-In, and Prius V). Plus, it was part of a small group of vehicles that could achieve almost 50 mpg if driven efficiently. But Toyota really hasn’t made any changes to the Prius C since it was launched, only making minor changes to the feature set for the past few years. Meanwhile, the rest of the Prius lineup has undergone significant changes with
This old hybrid hatchback
Updated by William Maley- 12 comments
- 4,057 views
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As we got off the on-ramp to I-94, my driving partner realized something. “We’re going the wrong direction.” Instead of going westbound, we were traveling eastbound. We had misread the directions only a few hundred yards from the starting point. Once realizing this, I drove towards the next exit to turn around. A few extra miles wouldn’t hurt either in the vehicle that I was piloting. Mitsubishi had invited a small number of Detroit-based automotive writers to drive the new Eclips
Return of the Eclipse!
Updated by William Maley- 4 comments
- 4,321 views
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The Mazda6 is a prime example of how making various improvements throughout the lifecycle can make a vehicle. Since the first model I drove back in 2014, Mazda has been messing around with various aspects such as the interior and NVH levels. Last year saw Mazda make some key changes to 6 with the big news being the introduction of a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder from the CX-9 crossover. This was to address one of the major shortcomings of the sedan, lackluster performance when it comes to maki
The turbo makes the difference
Updated by William Maley- 93 comments
- 6,948 views
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The Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX 570 are part of an endangered species: SUVs designed with the purpose of going off-road. It may seem somewhat mad to describe most SUVs as not off-road oriented, but most buyers don’t really take SUVs off the beaten path. Automakers have responded in kind by providing a minimum four-wheel capability while improving on-road behavior. The Land Cruiser and LX 570 haven’t gone down this path as they have a small, but loyal owner base that would cry foul if Toyota
What happens when you take off-road oriented SUVs onto payment?
Updated by William Maley- 4 comments
- 5,255 views
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The Hyundai Elantra GT has always stood apart from its sedan counterpart due to its European roots. This is most apparent in terms of handling where the hatchback felt slightly sharper than the sedan. Hyundai’s U.S. office has once again called on the European office to source a new Elantra GT hatchback. The model known in Europe as the i30 has been said to be a viable alternative to the Volkswagen Golf by automotive writers. Does that hold true in terms of the U.S.? Hyundai’s designers too
An alternative to the Volkswagen Golf? Possibly.
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 7 comments
- 5,033 views
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A few weeks ago, I wrote a comparison test between the 2018 Mazda CX-9 and Volkswagen Atlas. It was a close fight, but the Atlas ended up being the victor as it proved to be the better all-around three-row crossover. I find myself comparing these two brands once again, this time with their compact crossovers. Like their larger brethren, the two models take different approaches. The Mazda CX-5 goes for something that provides a premium feel and exciting drive, while the Volkswagen Tiguan uses spa
- review
- comparison
- 2018
- crossover
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Mazda v. Volkswagen, Part 2
Updated by William Maley- 16 comments
- 11,800 views
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Many automotive journalists have been flummoxed by the popularity of the Toyota Camry. The model trails the pack in a number of key areas such as design, handling, and performance. But I know the reason why the Camry is beloved by many; it is a no hassle midsize sedan that will go the distance. But there is a change that endangers many midsize sedans. Buyers who previously brought sedans are now trending towards crossovers and SUVs as they offer a number of traits such as a higher ride hei
- review
- evaulation
- 2018
- toyota
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Can a Camry be exciting? Well, yes.
Updated by William Maley- 7 comments
- 9,247 views
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“Despite the positives, the Ioniq finds itself between a rock and hard place.” That was how I closed my review of the 2017 Hyundai Ioniq SEL earlier this year. Despite me finding a lot to like about this hybrid, I found myself struggling as determining whether it was better or worse than the Toyota Prius. A few weeks ago, another Ioniq arrived in my driveway for a weeklong evaluation. This particular variant is the base Blue model, which is positioned as the mileage champ in the Ioniq lineu
- quick drive
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- 2018
- hyundai
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Low cost and high fuel economy figures
Updated by William Maley- 2 comments
- 3,725 views
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The three-row full-size crossover has taken the place of large SUVs as the vehicle of choice for growing families. Crossovers offer the tall ride height and large space, but not at the cost of fuel economy and ride quality. Recently, I spent a week in the 2018 Mazda CX-9 and Volkswagen Atlas. These two models could not be any different; one is focused on providing driving enjoyment, while the other is concerned about providing enough space for cargo and passengers. Trying to determine which one
- review
- comparison
- 2018
- mazda
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Taking the temperature of the large three-row crossover
Updated by William Maley- 40 comments
- 7,047 views
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The 2018 Subaru Legacy finds itself in a difficult spot. Like other midsize sedans, the Legacy has been seeing its sales fall down as more buyers are trending towards trucks and utility vehicles. But Subaru is trying to stop the bleeding somewhat by introducing an updated Legacy with various improvements to the exterior and mechanical bits. Is it enough? Compared to the last Legacy I drove in 2015, the 2018 model has some minor changes. The front now comes with a wider grille, updated de
- quick drive
- review
- 2018
- subaru
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It's hard out there for midsize sedans
Updated by William Maley- 11 comments
- 3,870 views
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Hyundai had set itself a high bar when it launched the sixth-generation Sonata for the 2010 model year. It stood out from a crowded field of midsize sedans with an exterior shape that resembled a Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. The Sonata also boasted a comfortable interior, loads of technology features, a good selection of engines, and a nice balance between comfort and sport. Replacing this model would be a tough task and one Hyundai wasn’t able to meet. When the seventh-generation model rolled out a
Bringing Back Some of the Magic
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 7 comments
- 4,445 views
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I need to get something out of the way before diving into the review of the 2018 Toyota C-HR. Originally the C-HR was to join Scion’s lineup, but the C-HR would become a Toyota as the Scion brand would shut its doors in late 2016. With this change of brands, does this leave the C-HR with an identity crisis? The C-HR is short for ‘Coupe High Roof’ and the design makes that very clear. Proportions are very similar to a coupe with a long front and stubby back. Other coupe details to be aware o
What happens when a car has a bit of an identity crisis?
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 6 comments
- 4,241 views
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Sport is one of the most misused terms in the automotive segment. It could mean that a vehicle has been given a once-over in terms of the engine and suspension to give it an edge. But it could also mean that a vehicle has been gifted a body kit to make it look sporty. This brings us to the 2018 Genesis G80 Sport. Which version of sport did they decide to go with? Exterior changes on the G80 Sport are small with a copper grille surround, mesh grille, a more aggressive front bumper, 19-inc
- quick drive
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- 2018
- genesis
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Sport or 'Sport'?
Updated by Drew Dowdell- 5 comments
- 5,603 views
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I found myself in a bit of quandary when it came to writing the review for the 2018 Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio. Both of these models have been redesigned recently and despite the different exteriors, under the skin they share a number of key parts such as the engine and suspension. As I was going through my notes, I realized the answer was right in front of me; talk about the differences between the two and see which one does it better. Exterior Between the two vehicles, the Rio stand
- 2018
- hyundai
- accent
- hyundai accent
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Dueling Subcompact Sedans
Updated by William Maley- 6 comments
- 5,135 views
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Trying to review an Alfa Romeo vehicle is difficult as I found out with the Giulia Quadrifoglio. There were parts of model that I found to be quite amazing and worthy of putting it on my year-end favorites list. But other traits and details left a very sour taste in my mouth. I ended my review with this line, “To some, that is the charm of an Alfa Romeo. Within all of those flaws is a brilliant automobile. For others, it is something that should be avoided at all costs.” Now I find mys
When an Italian does a compact luxury crossover
Updated by William Maley- 5 comments
- 4,162 views
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(Author’s Note: Before you ask, no this isn’t a typo. I really did drive a 2017 Tacoma in 2018. Due to some circumstances, the Tacoma took the place of another vehicle at the last minute. I didn’t realize it was a 2017 model until I saw the sticker. I’ll make note of the changes for 2018 towards the end of the piece.) I’ll likely make some people annoyed with this line: The Toyota Tacoma is the Jeep Wrangler of the pickup world. Before you start getting banging on your keyboard, telling me
Driving a 2017 truck in 2018
Updated by William Maley- 6 comments
- 5,918 views
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(Author's Note: As was pointed out to me on Facebook, the diesel engine is nowhere to be seen on the consumer site or the configurator. Yet, it appears in FCA's media materials. In an email sent this afternoon, Ram Trucks spokesman Nick Cappa said the option has been dropped for 2018. This review has been updated with this new information. -WM) I’ll admit that I was a bit crazy requesting a 2018 Ram ProMaster van for review. Ever since it was introduced, I have been interested in this rebad
Sadly Not Living Down By the River
Updated by William Maley- 5 comments
- 7,086 views
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Is it possible to teach an old car new tricks? That’s the question Chrysler believes it has answered with the 2018 300. The current-generation model has been with since 2012, though the platform it uses goes back to nineties. Chrysler has been making various improvements to it with an updated look, new transmission, and revised trims. Spending a week with the 2018 300S, I found there were a number of things that make it a worthy contender. But there were some issues that made me leery of fully r
This old full-size sedan
Updated by William Maley- 38 comments
- 7,911 views