tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73505048833805386482024-03-18T13:56:31.749-07:00Who's On First?Musings and comments on autos, sports, movies, etc.Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.comBlogger510125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-34924136726285298002024-03-18T13:56:00.000-07:002024-03-18T13:56:30.469-07:00BMW Z4 ROADSTER<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4JBQ4M6JE5cCqhl-VE84kSJ83wL0eIXSMy1xAxR2DYvkagO95BCx7I23oxgUuAjpyjnBHAhh3PEOSeZ35rfHaeI-_y7h5fKxH3veqGfODp5OkGcvwyunjlDfDIWcGHhHIIc4CPhZBGy1BkiqXyQYaV2O6tERXEtzkJ_PuYR050c1Pia5Fw7UVl9zk3g/s3500/20240311_150025.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2252" data-original-width="3500" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4JBQ4M6JE5cCqhl-VE84kSJ83wL0eIXSMy1xAxR2DYvkagO95BCx7I23oxgUuAjpyjnBHAhh3PEOSeZ35rfHaeI-_y7h5fKxH3veqGfODp5OkGcvwyunjlDfDIWcGHhHIIc4CPhZBGy1BkiqXyQYaV2O6tERXEtzkJ_PuYR050c1Pia5Fw7UVl9zk3g/w400-h258/20240311_150025.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">IS BMW READY TO PULL THE PLUG ON PRODUCTION OF ICONIC Z4 ROADSTER?</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Though speculation in recent years about the future of the BMW Z4 would lead you to believe the sporty little roadster is on its last legs (wheels?) the reports of its immediate demise may be a bit premature.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWBh3NkEoPHN1zu59pjXImETBHeNh49cGQXm-P2xacqfMvBOVVkH0fkzDVEypYpMOlGvR0YaTrwlyHEd4MdUYOZ60g2-Fni5x_YtJ6UQzNpALNXxMxaJuMuPuuyIdvo1vZ85Ijb_pHatndlmvu_7GAckEZNknjk5Ebdqw3vBFzX4eki1VAjgjEIRl7eSc/s1110/20240311_150446.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="890" data-original-width="1110" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWBh3NkEoPHN1zu59pjXImETBHeNh49cGQXm-P2xacqfMvBOVVkH0fkzDVEypYpMOlGvR0YaTrwlyHEd4MdUYOZ60g2-Fni5x_YtJ6UQzNpALNXxMxaJuMuPuuyIdvo1vZ85Ijb_pHatndlmvu_7GAckEZNknjk5Ebdqw3vBFzX4eki1VAjgjEIRl7eSc/w200-h161/20240311_150446.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>As far back as 2016 an item in BMWblog.com lamented its impeding demise with the headline “Say Goodbye to the BMW Z4 – Imperfect but loveable” (sic).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">True, a production hiatus of about three years followed that report, but the German automaker brought back the Z4 for 2019, though regrettably it did so without a manual transmission that many of its potential customers would have appreciated.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqIRGop0BzQjceKnX-TDibHyk-pwya11r8jrfOHPQ8xzTXMHXeGrgGp3JkBfcm1Mmp06kXo3pbfEzzGM_D2bdMVuclKxseDn_7T5kvYxmMr6bRmiyvkv1vV6YCO092jxJeKMFccdMzRZPrq-bliV4-biirqT_PiMOh_HW4Z8qPmTHmaDCbuivKf-BV44/s3558/20240311_145536.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2343" data-original-width="3558" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqIRGop0BzQjceKnX-TDibHyk-pwya11r8jrfOHPQ8xzTXMHXeGrgGp3JkBfcm1Mmp06kXo3pbfEzzGM_D2bdMVuclKxseDn_7T5kvYxmMr6bRmiyvkv1vV6YCO092jxJeKMFccdMzRZPrq-bliV4-biirqT_PiMOh_HW4Z8qPmTHmaDCbuivKf-BV44/w400-h265/20240311_145536.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The first year of its comeback it was offered in only one trim sDrive30i with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivering 255 horsepower. An M40i model with a 3.0-liter turbo 6-cylinder bumping horsepower up to 382 and torque to 389 pound-feet was introduced for 2020, and those are the choices that remain today.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This review is based on the 2023 BMW Z4 M40i, but no major changes were made for 2024, which is unlike plans for 2025 when BMW will bring back a manual transmission for M40i models. It will be part of a $3,500 package that also includes other upgrades to make the Z4 more track friendly.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjufK_BRBs5oJgT4JkuP5fbs2slMkg2Nv0ga1ZhyPgUwgC2_dPn2CYI2qEuE0kw5pr1uZZUE5Fxzu6X1Jyi3IJE1KwjUEvz38OJFmZCSZFLZTDGEu-HIgA5YU6OIvlccMawfOHl5TP9KtBWCIiCJDsMZ_heAxNkkzngY7V7tgfgS5x7_16xtwoQWrAOsGE/s3092/20240311_145920.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2017" data-original-width="3092" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjufK_BRBs5oJgT4JkuP5fbs2slMkg2Nv0ga1ZhyPgUwgC2_dPn2CYI2qEuE0kw5pr1uZZUE5Fxzu6X1Jyi3IJE1KwjUEvz38OJFmZCSZFLZTDGEu-HIgA5YU6OIvlccMawfOHl5TP9KtBWCIiCJDsMZ_heAxNkkzngY7V7tgfgS5x7_16xtwoQWrAOsGE/w400-h261/20240311_145920.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As it is, an 8-speed automatic is the only transmission offered on 2023 M40i Z4s. It includes sport and manual modes with gears switched via steering wheel-mounted paddles. (Sorry, but that’s just not the same as working a clutch.)</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">With the larger engine the Z4 M40i delivers a zero-to-60 mph clocking of 3.5 seconds (according to zeroto60times.com), a 1.6-second improvement over the 4-banger, while drinking premium at the rate of 23 miles-per-gallon city, 31 highway, and 26 combined.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42sGwPd_zJGC_HUQVfZ9WRsuMCteGZ09VuJ9JxkqAYPynymGmXbWtsusnQMqsViNouHI_lksVf3yen_CWmMufaWXO4akIl1oPfAAiZTwxpgV_zFXCtTF09PlY6lcOsozjIcoQQW3xqqS4JnPMkkgdbId87x3XtXxb5iQCLAtWwKkjKwiZv1tMrEneD9M/s2956/20240311_145729.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2250" data-original-width="2956" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42sGwPd_zJGC_HUQVfZ9WRsuMCteGZ09VuJ9JxkqAYPynymGmXbWtsusnQMqsViNouHI_lksVf3yen_CWmMufaWXO4akIl1oPfAAiZTwxpgV_zFXCtTF09PlY6lcOsozjIcoQQW3xqqS4JnPMkkgdbId87x3XtXxb5iQCLAtWwKkjKwiZv1tMrEneD9M/w400-h306/20240311_145729.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Though it seats only two, the BMW Z4 is fairly roomy for a roadster and offers a compliant ride. Seat bolsters hold you in place but don’t get in the way of entering or exiting the vehicle.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Creature comforts include dual-zone temperature control, heated seats with lumbar support, and a heated steering wheel. A wind deflector provides protection from excessive buffeting when the top is lowered, which, by the way, is rapidly accomplished with the push of an overhead button.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhahSfEhkUzabxopEUODrtvcZbF-x4gnxkwUUXCOlmhLb4IxpDgtmG4sbLq4i92g71SZ0QnUwgdEN_aFavmF07A-bu9tbysJ2iN2EBy26rZMzcs0p1m4nen5k1PqDXHzPZvnVlhKIgeTjdyB2WlNM7-YAaJq8L6m66OLklIyB-nN6uT0VOyPwlrJ8uevzo/s3214/20240311_155542.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1812" data-original-width="3214" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhahSfEhkUzabxopEUODrtvcZbF-x4gnxkwUUXCOlmhLb4IxpDgtmG4sbLq4i92g71SZ0QnUwgdEN_aFavmF07A-bu9tbysJ2iN2EBy26rZMzcs0p1m4nen5k1PqDXHzPZvnVlhKIgeTjdyB2WlNM7-YAaJq8L6m66OLklIyB-nN6uT0VOyPwlrJ8uevzo/w400-h225/20240311_155542.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Tech features include wireless charging, a wifi hotspot, keyless entry and push-button start, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and BMW’s Live Cockpit system that includes navigation.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">BMW’s Dynamic (adaptable) Cruise Control, a rollover protection system, and LED headlights also are among standard features includied it the $65,300 starting MSRP for the 2023 BMW Z4 M40i.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkPThx48OP_ps4jEZDfT1g5g0HpUxv6BfOZwtxRxeCPnH6Kll2p-d_p0-ynsy7MXkSKCNRutyRFUFmCQIX-aous4Pahz_2FllcORTZI7R8ly__x6A7b_Q5eRF7uaZN3C2yfjtZU_GElDpJBAd1IMGegRk3ycvnAH7Z7hexaAvahys9kzvM6L1_AfSY7Y/s3071/20240311_155609.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3071" data-original-width="2033" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkPThx48OP_ps4jEZDfT1g5g0HpUxv6BfOZwtxRxeCPnH6Kll2p-d_p0-ynsy7MXkSKCNRutyRFUFmCQIX-aous4Pahz_2FllcORTZI7R8ly__x6A7b_Q5eRF7uaZN3C2yfjtZU_GElDpJBAd1IMGegRk3ycvnAH7Z7hexaAvahys9kzvM6L1_AfSY7Y/w133-h200/20240311_155609.jpeg" width="133" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My test vehicle added a Driving Assistance Package (blind-spot detection and lane-departure warning), a Shadowine Package (adaptive full LED headlights, black mirror caps, and extra styling touches), and a Premium Package (remote engine start and parking assistant).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The ivory white Vernasca leather interior and special Thundernight medallic paint (a purple shade sure to appeal to an LSU fan) and some other extras (like wireless charging and a Harmon Kardon surround sound system) ran the final total to $73,620 including the $995 destination and delivery charge.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">More packages also are available.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps that will help stem a slowing sales trend that saw the last two years check in at under 2,000 units each for the Z4. But it needs to be quick. A more recent report from BMWblog.com is that the company has extended production of the Z4 just until March of 2026.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyxs2vRCp9R7PNtaQqvMZ6sGT1lpkIAgkqa_489uhg5zFoJA6lRdMbuYDd89NqEPzaBFDWE1Uj2HaikqiCeF08cQyFF32DjtoR3PFpTk-Du9-9tZm4BI8OogcTzo1pJTBgCt7HPfiSDks0QVh6sNoaVbjTccnLW9S1H3K4PDoqjrY0XZ9-ABPNrHlzzo/s3794/20240311_155700.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2127" data-original-width="3794" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyxs2vRCp9R7PNtaQqvMZ6sGT1lpkIAgkqa_489uhg5zFoJA6lRdMbuYDd89NqEPzaBFDWE1Uj2HaikqiCeF08cQyFF32DjtoR3PFpTk-Du9-9tZm4BI8OogcTzo1pJTBgCt7HPfiSDks0QVh6sNoaVbjTccnLW9S1H3K4PDoqjrY0XZ9-ABPNrHlzzo/w200-h113/20240311_155700.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2024 BMW Z4:</b> It’s a fun car to drive, surefooted around corners and packing punch. As expected, the trunk is small (9.9 cubic feet), but you don’t lose any space when the top is lowered. Speaking of lowering the top, it’s a simple, quick operation and can be done at a low (very low) speed. The ride isn’t all that noisy when the top is up.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 BMW Z4:</b> Operating infotainment features isn’t overly complicated but takes some getting used to. Thick pillars bracing the windshield give you some blind spots looking forward. Cupholders are inside the interior storage bin making for an awkward reach, especially for the driver. No manual transmission is available until 2025 models.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 BMW Z4?</b> For sure. If you are of a certain age (read: old) this is the kind of vehicle you thought of when someone said “sports car.” This modern day version from Germany still has the same fun in its DNA as the older Brit models Triumph and MG and without the maintenance headaches.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oXFxceOTwspt0Sg0akxzTihrapQcsvz_WSN0IIb6wenTRlLoIdHUdzGyElRJRGXN5U5aExfJSUKsjF3PLnMw0y2FYPNGq9sV7jAznt6ZoWfZhh6qVVo-pRlyi1bpbZ1l1l5Enj3Mrtnk6vZ6RTW_rWVTXpv861B4N9OQCholzadEySFYspRJI-MSFl8/s2585/20240311_150303.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2185" data-original-width="2585" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oXFxceOTwspt0Sg0akxzTihrapQcsvz_WSN0IIb6wenTRlLoIdHUdzGyElRJRGXN5U5aExfJSUKsjF3PLnMw0y2FYPNGq9sV7jAznt6ZoWfZhh6qVVo-pRlyi1bpbZ1l1l5Enj3Mrtnk6vZ6RTW_rWVTXpv861B4N9OQCholzadEySFYspRJI-MSFl8/w640-h542/20240311_150303.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-4344301797604072422024-03-05T09:01:00.000-08:002024-03-05T09:06:53.172-08:002024 SUBARU CROSSTREK<div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz09Nv-z9pV8iS18QVNLA7RfEE647j3q1tReuQ2tiLkbGO6c2QVUhEXuCzTnVVBvpY8zhad6hXruzoUi9JyAHh653Lxlw9UFxhHYguqZ430A2DsGy2X_kbgV8iv47nXxGkR6yUdW247dzIwfIotUdCVCm6NVt1hXPHLLF40yeP85tRqy0lh4mrgqBAIKE/s3380/20240226_112904.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2262" data-original-width="3380" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz09Nv-z9pV8iS18QVNLA7RfEE647j3q1tReuQ2tiLkbGO6c2QVUhEXuCzTnVVBvpY8zhad6hXruzoUi9JyAHh653Lxlw9UFxhHYguqZ430A2DsGy2X_kbgV8iv47nXxGkR6yUdW247dzIwfIotUdCVCm6NVt1hXPHLLF40yeP85tRqy0lh4mrgqBAIKE/w400-h268/20240226_112904.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">CROSSTREK ENTERS THIRD GENERATION <br />WITH THE COMING OF THE 2024 MODEL</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Introduced as a 2012 model to replace the Sport version of the iconic Outback SUV, the subcompact Crosstrek continues to be a stellar seller for the Japanese automaker Subaru, challenging the Forester and Outback the company’s No. 1 spot.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvGQ2N2Y31bY8d5BGi67bfEwKLAWsV5Wm4W4MHhVbx3V7zadofj-BHuw6NgcxHzQ7yHjxFYOpk_J2d29aICiaCX_oN84IlnnrCOKn_NC2UeOFOKfJcYS6JB3fFlWW-sYuSpLkL8IpvKOwipAJY4iy75QmLiuPYXA9ur6Fs7ApaORhc-7dyqnjDPsOQCY/s836/20240227_144950.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="836" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvGQ2N2Y31bY8d5BGi67bfEwKLAWsV5Wm4W4MHhVbx3V7zadofj-BHuw6NgcxHzQ7yHjxFYOpk_J2d29aICiaCX_oN84IlnnrCOKn_NC2UeOFOKfJcYS6JB3fFlWW-sYuSpLkL8IpvKOwipAJY4iy75QmLiuPYXA9ur6Fs7ApaORhc-7dyqnjDPsOQCY/w200-h114/20240227_144950.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Over the last three years, the Crosstrek has occupied the No. 1 (2022), No. 2 (2023), and No. 3 (2021 place in Subaru’s yearly sales in swapping positions with the Forester and Outback.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Overall, those three dominate the company’s sales over its largest SUV, the three-row Ascent that hit the U.S. market in the fall of 2018. Each of the top three hold more than double the sales numbers of the fourth-place Ascent, a trend that continues through the first two months of this year.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFiiuB5mzparsvFVcrPZjpwOC1qqXpFGYAgHjHbX0laRJGtJ5LwNI2HKIMv6yllPqkWoADdItFrUXEh51CdoAEy8WNyLsWZ5KABNR8nGJF57KRIvS8hHEjfGloM3FUVeLoQ_sc7CdGeLWMbranaC3hpFd5tF4gNM-amgbcsxOS4GR6i01ThhmmTlYOXs/s3714/20240226_113358.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2146" data-original-width="3714" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFiiuB5mzparsvFVcrPZjpwOC1qqXpFGYAgHjHbX0laRJGtJ5LwNI2HKIMv6yllPqkWoADdItFrUXEh51CdoAEy8WNyLsWZ5KABNR8nGJF57KRIvS8hHEjfGloM3FUVeLoQ_sc7CdGeLWMbranaC3hpFd5tF4gNM-amgbcsxOS4GR6i01ThhmmTlYOXs/w400-h233/20240226_113358.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The redesign that moved the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek into its third generation didn’t change its appearance or size much. Fractions of an inch were shaved off the length down to 176.4 inches and the width to 70.9. A couple of inches were knocked off the height (63 inches), but the wheelbase is a tad longer at 105.1 inches.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">But there is a new trim level that Subaru dubs Wilderness at the top of the portfolio to go with the Base, Premium, Sport, and Limited models, and the manual transmission has been dropped from the drivetrain offerings.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8eCQTxv_opjzoXWOf357Ur8AHL0AL16KUY3qN9NL5S-5427GRsA0ZCoY2zJpcAHQaKe3pRnmMLjuZQK1QhUAxL_FjtoUKy_Q7dOyYufQsx-UtbIszHbboVJ6Zcj8O-OFeVgq8v1K5uSUSg6VXIh2DbNSBohNC68yo-0b7dHxm6jn24algM56gM_In7A/s3657/20240226_113049.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2043" data-original-width="3657" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8eCQTxv_opjzoXWOf357Ur8AHL0AL16KUY3qN9NL5S-5427GRsA0ZCoY2zJpcAHQaKe3pRnmMLjuZQK1QhUAxL_FjtoUKy_Q7dOyYufQsx-UtbIszHbboVJ6Zcj8O-OFeVgq8v1K5uSUSg6VXIh2DbNSBohNC68yo-0b7dHxm6jn24algM56gM_In7A/w400-h225/20240226_113049.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Subaru’s Eyesight Technology, a safety systems that monitors traffic and provides assistance such as a full-on emergency stop, is now standard for the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, and infotainment systems have been updated.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This review is based on the Sport trim of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and features a 2.5-liter Boxer engine (a Subaru trait) mated to a CVT (continuously variable transmission) that boosts horsepower to 182 and torque to 178 pound-feet over the 152/145, respectively, in the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine standard in Base and Premium trims.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0OIPyJbPJ1HlBkUGn_TA52Wm0QyGsRj90QgFfmvpuj4lsnj9xfzGsod6M_vihPwSZc-JutA5UgeRT6FDBqDjjo115ZyfKdmtsqK2kNuTiQgm7biaOsXEucW21tzuIpDdjX7SelpjRs-8qyBOd235_ZQF0oZAQ-9Q3mOeXjO4AgwR7CGOvhlaUpC3jaD8/s3719/20240226_113508.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2408" data-original-width="3719" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0OIPyJbPJ1HlBkUGn_TA52Wm0QyGsRj90QgFfmvpuj4lsnj9xfzGsod6M_vihPwSZc-JutA5UgeRT6FDBqDjjo115ZyfKdmtsqK2kNuTiQgm7biaOsXEucW21tzuIpDdjX7SelpjRs-8qyBOd235_ZQF0oZAQ-9Q3mOeXjO4AgwR7CGOvhlaUpC3jaD8/w400-h259/20240226_113508.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Along with Premium and Limited trims, the CVT in Sport models includes eight pre-set modes that the driver can access manually via steering-wheel paddle shifters.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">There’s not much in the way of peppy performance even in the larger engine, but fuel mileage is rated at 26 miles-per-gallon city, 33 highway, and 29 combined. That’s pretty close to the 27/34/29 figures for the 2.0L 4-banger.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-5cF00ZWxeMjZBCFDVWLE8gZiCvioUy1rKnfEQoYaTLPKvGCeRK3hWGd7pQUPwAZxl3sWuvv4yfSZ8-bv9SgpaDt5hC8AnEfpxgFm4eoE0LpJ5XWehFSk6wZK_M9ZHfEHhxwyBvCyiIDmikGhKCwCpzMT8dJlqkIFen5Q0GYqJxnETHLExOQOhnWwKw/s3823/20240227_144706.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2153" data-original-width="3823" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-5cF00ZWxeMjZBCFDVWLE8gZiCvioUy1rKnfEQoYaTLPKvGCeRK3hWGd7pQUPwAZxl3sWuvv4yfSZ8-bv9SgpaDt5hC8AnEfpxgFm4eoE0LpJ5XWehFSk6wZK_M9ZHfEHhxwyBvCyiIDmikGhKCwCpzMT8dJlqkIFen5Q0GYqJxnETHLExOQOhnWwKw/w400-h225/20240227_144706.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Among comfort and convenience features on the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport are Subaru’s StarLink services with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, a wireless phone charger, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, and push-button start.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">In addition to the EyeSight Driver assist program, safety features include adaptable control with lane-centering assist, brake assist, and the usual collection of airbags and seatbelts.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkidyXFVLwtXcirtM6T2S54qOGa5H5nRT3ic6LGS0UjfhTwfb3BqoWbmwLblXWq4GY4QI7wb7nuOwZx4s6VPzExFvt42rADh5R5e9KzxUjto0ooXpyB-GJARqnFZA8qwl9rGwClfJGYulnytFC8JvyHhqv6vMrMIZCn3U1YoOYdddPYgczXYLZ_ezMwpo/s3853/20240227_144851.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2703" data-original-width="3853" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkidyXFVLwtXcirtM6T2S54qOGa5H5nRT3ic6LGS0UjfhTwfb3BqoWbmwLblXWq4GY4QI7wb7nuOwZx4s6VPzExFvt42rADh5R5e9KzxUjto0ooXpyB-GJARqnFZA8qwl9rGwClfJGYulnytFC8JvyHhqv6vMrMIZCn3U1YoOYdddPYgczXYLZ_ezMwpo/w200-h141/20240227_144851.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Blind spot and rear cross-traffic alert comes in a $1,190 option package that also features a power moonroof and 10-way power driver’s seat with 2-way lumbar support.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Roof rails, a retractable cargo cover, automatic LED headlights with automatic high beam, and LED fog lights also are among standard features. The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport rides on 18-inch alloy wheels.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Starting MSRP for the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport is $28,995, which is $5,000 more than the starting point for the Base model that carries over from 2023. My test 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport that included the one option package came to $32,210 including the $1,295 destination and delivery fee.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIllK_eMjW0fbBL7cScISaov1iBdymEpaxtNVPCD7JxaQEeF-Y7YeRBUDeqKHGrEQdYIZ35L0t79GpK3Fhxc0O4C0gpYJMkcJ6isXqCJP9Adv4bcJWzZoBFkhUext3RbGfjfqToIpgOBAgGzAbY6deBd_2XUg2d4ZMi9XM9zQlYh4Hz9uMDAJISG2Hmvo/s2983/20240227_144722.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2983" data-original-width="1729" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIllK_eMjW0fbBL7cScISaov1iBdymEpaxtNVPCD7JxaQEeF-Y7YeRBUDeqKHGrEQdYIZ35L0t79GpK3Fhxc0O4C0gpYJMkcJ6isXqCJP9Adv4bcJWzZoBFkhUext3RbGfjfqToIpgOBAgGzAbY6deBd_2XUg2d4ZMi9XM9zQlYh4Hz9uMDAJISG2Hmvo/w116-h200/20240227_144722.jpeg" width="116" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport: </b>The interior is roomy and comfortable. What the 2.5L, 4-cylinder Boxer engine lacks in oomph it makes up for in fuel efficiency. Tech features are plentiful. The touchscreen looks imposing but really is quite user-friendly. It even has knobs to adjust audio volume and surf the radio dial. The Crosstrek isn’t ready to take on the Rubicon Trail, but with a ground clearance of 9.3 inches and extra body cladding in Wilderness trim it has some off-roading chops. Being a Subaru, all-wheel drive is standard.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport:</b> The manual transmission available on some earlier models has been discontinued in favor of a CVT. Ugh. Even with the 2.5L engine the low power shows up when looking for a little more punch for passing at highway speeds. I can live without the touches of gold trim. A power liftgate would be a nice addition.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport? </b>Models with the 2.5L engine definitely are worth a look. It is a very functional SUV and the price level is appealing. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGST8S_pgnMtJB1a6cayaWNKkgZmisCYJ821UhRil0wbcylh5R94UccEhpeoR29FqOWKHI7swasK1Emy1qD_MAZoMd3H3JaPZNTabGRNSRuSuWRGVaoHI8wZvkHkVsk8wRUKK4mK2dyQ8QNZ0xgaBv3v-Kehgx4dg9rWseX3AdCAb-zlsGZx_Vm4kfko/s2742/20240226_113231.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1768" data-original-width="2742" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGST8S_pgnMtJB1a6cayaWNKkgZmisCYJ821UhRil0wbcylh5R94UccEhpeoR29FqOWKHI7swasK1Emy1qD_MAZoMd3H3JaPZNTabGRNSRuSuWRGVaoHI8wZvkHkVsk8wRUKK4mK2dyQ8QNZ0xgaBv3v-Kehgx4dg9rWseX3AdCAb-zlsGZx_Vm4kfko/w640-h412/20240226_113231.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-28632463853848013612024-02-26T14:16:00.000-08:002024-02-26T14:16:37.222-08:002024 KIA EV9<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjybUz-k5gJ8J5sGkE0AuGGVaTLz_D1m99dWKIvYCz4IoHv5Cf2HGOXfD0tqTMGCc6_YfGC2mJvhQVPm1XmdBheUU2CiepFqCYVHg5RBhnDpudb4hrZEASeyrISe_ialgEJbZyf9gxZ_4wPPZkRCCEJDHFN2ESVSFuSBW5clFR3Ntm3Ny5HTZmMm5fA0/s2043/20240219_161725.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1443" data-original-width="2043" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjybUz-k5gJ8J5sGkE0AuGGVaTLz_D1m99dWKIvYCz4IoHv5Cf2HGOXfD0tqTMGCc6_YfGC2mJvhQVPm1XmdBheUU2CiepFqCYVHg5RBhnDpudb4hrZEASeyrISe_ialgEJbZyf9gxZ_4wPPZkRCCEJDHFN2ESVSFuSBW5clFR3Ntm3Ny5HTZmMm5fA0/w400-h283/20240219_161725.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">IT’S NOT SCIENCE FICTION: KIA OUT WITH </span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">3-ROW, ALL-ELECTRIC CROSSOVER SUV</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Its name may bring back memories of old 1950s era science fiction movies, but the Kia EV9 (<i>Plan EV9 from Outer Space</i> staring Vampira, Bela Lugosi, and Tor Johnson and directed by Ed Wood) is much more than just a badly stretched punch line.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5j5ThOkVWQFmRkUPOGNjuGnK2kkSgRC1M7RL7mefdmSXhLkSdVUOem-45kZeedLyTm0wVtzn-fCj3V2vqQ-NsShZwIGijrkkdf25b8q1WRmf_QkSJo5cMd0gDCbYVFdTphUgusGAUZxuFSCiyJW5eu83UKrsYdPDQSzZzhAaBbObDe8bAkLbMlJqd7lA/s2402/20240219_162821.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="2402" height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5j5ThOkVWQFmRkUPOGNjuGnK2kkSgRC1M7RL7mefdmSXhLkSdVUOem-45kZeedLyTm0wVtzn-fCj3V2vqQ-NsShZwIGijrkkdf25b8q1WRmf_QkSJo5cMd0gDCbYVFdTphUgusGAUZxuFSCiyJW5eu83UKrsYdPDQSzZzhAaBbObDe8bAkLbMlJqd7lA/w200-h64/20240219_162821.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>New for 2024, the Kia EV9 is spacious electric crossover SUV offering three rows of seating capable of accommodating six or seven passengers, an interior packed with family friendly features, and a decent-sized cargo area behind the third row. At 197.4 inches in length, it’s a shade longer than Kia’s Telluride.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBA9WgXR4lZC2cg0NR5ZT_dGlXvK9EetNKuESVEo6HOQpymtKzOjU1u3Y71-e5FpRMYgugAxuOWMwojTq7CBTvk6pDOcZRSofdswJMXa2Eu07pi8oDilCrwJxsww2BTJqDZtjkc1R44IWbof7xYJqUUKzDvykU9PbEji1MKKY14E4bnt9SjfG5omXnrdI/s2873/20240219_162041.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1498" data-original-width="2873" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBA9WgXR4lZC2cg0NR5ZT_dGlXvK9EetNKuESVEo6HOQpymtKzOjU1u3Y71-e5FpRMYgugAxuOWMwojTq7CBTvk6pDOcZRSofdswJMXa2Eu07pi8oDilCrwJxsww2BTJqDZtjkc1R44IWbof7xYJqUUKzDvykU9PbEji1MKKY14E4bnt9SjfG5omXnrdI/w400-h209/20240219_162041.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">It is available with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive and goes over 300 miles between charges when equipped with the long-range battery..</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Kia EV9 is offered in four trim levels starting with the base Light Short Range (230 miles) and Light Long Range trims. Wind and Land versions have standard all-wheel drive and a dual electric motor setup that increases horsepower to 379 from the 215 (Light Short Range) and 201 (Light Long Range trims).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFUtnzYGqbhQUs8_rRmlAdOM3AV0BLtSTrMxdcWQkzwM2KySSbT4byrQIK1ab4hyphenhyphenu93o5msD1zzv7dmJ2ijxxCOnJAjWn4Ewi2wet5kuPT8UQbwjyKaoqVfhZpFxKFJBQ8I9r4W6_n8TzTylVlzOCX6oeRaWT0k37dQl_QU5vWIySgzaWHE9dIwwD9oQ/s3509/20240219_161513.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1833" data-original-width="3509" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFUtnzYGqbhQUs8_rRmlAdOM3AV0BLtSTrMxdcWQkzwM2KySSbT4byrQIK1ab4hyphenhyphenu93o5msD1zzv7dmJ2ijxxCOnJAjWn4Ewi2wet5kuPT8UQbwjyKaoqVfhZpFxKFJBQ8I9r4W6_n8TzTylVlzOCX6oeRaWT0k37dQl_QU5vWIySgzaWHE9dIwwD9oQ/w400-h209/20240219_161513.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This review is based on the top-of-the-line 2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line trim that matches the 379 hp in Wind and Land trims and puts out 518 pound-feet of torque that Kia claims gives it a zero-to-60 mph clocking of under five seconds. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Th GT-Line also puts the price tag at a starting point of $73,900 before extras and freight charges are added on, which is a significant jump from the other trims and approaches 3-row electric exotic SUVs from Tesla and Rivian.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92m1rgnlwTw5XqBwaKhuONk5UZWzul_07MsQX-XsE1KN-mPw_WRCTwbNRZBDmrRwHN8zn9Nt3b00JoKRjXFr4iCxo3Rimh0P1UMZ_F_YCIK2sup7vxeTmZoP4xLMwXwAFxglZifNSWvElRw-BJHNN0d_TJPUbKITk1wG0z4fONdWEYqaAaHtBH9qrX0s/s2190/20240219_161906.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1646" data-original-width="2190" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92m1rgnlwTw5XqBwaKhuONk5UZWzul_07MsQX-XsE1KN-mPw_WRCTwbNRZBDmrRwHN8zn9Nt3b00JoKRjXFr4iCxo3Rimh0P1UMZ_F_YCIK2sup7vxeTmZoP4xLMwXwAFxglZifNSWvElRw-BJHNN0d_TJPUbKITk1wG0z4fONdWEYqaAaHtBH9qrX0s/w400-h301/20240219_161906.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My test 2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line came with standard AWD and the long-range battery giving it the plus-300 miles of driving range. (A charge up 87 percent gave me a 275 range.) </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-MM1_az2zoQgEiYPLyVgV6oLPnpNiCrBxYl6fFbiL61gMLNW-CY2B234kjYVFI-1zbxY_mNU-ceKKqYjBv4YCUmTZOqQeHg9_iUuH6jFzG8xj_cbPgxRiSS8Xq8pmbuzOI_7rcX85mXuIK5-NbN8DwE6eL7gDi4ZvevIBBibFaYjMrrZ2qNmN_eP6zQ/s2438/20240219_162706.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1601" data-original-width="2438" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-MM1_az2zoQgEiYPLyVgV6oLPnpNiCrBxYl6fFbiL61gMLNW-CY2B234kjYVFI-1zbxY_mNU-ceKKqYjBv4YCUmTZOqQeHg9_iUuH6jFzG8xj_cbPgxRiSS8Xq8pmbuzOI_7rcX85mXuIK5-NbN8DwE6eL7gDi4ZvevIBBibFaYjMrrZ2qNmN_eP6zQ/w200-h132/20240219_162706.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Standard comfort and convenience features included a 12.3-ineh panoramic touchscreen display with navigation and Meridian Premium Sound and a nice, clear display for the surround view camera.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Seats are covered with Syntex synthetic fabric and the front seats are heated and ventilated with the driver getting leg support. The second-row captain’s chairs also are heated and ventilated and move back and forth at the touch of a button to provide more legroom for third-row occupants.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhl6fIZ5iV3nxGCEm2GXyfgGvR5E4APpxJC1MZy1OIEU17eRU2wNu3Abp6ESM2dPnJouJi1SBIvWbXaQWE3d2YXm3YjP0lQuRARWu0S_7tx64QEVDgfo5BE-584YIdRJoIV11jXLYiaAJ91Xw6hMvLz5NkZbx1BRkbJe4-wyAgM8r3ljf5uWQ36weciA/s3733/20240219_162625.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1802" data-original-width="3733" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhl6fIZ5iV3nxGCEm2GXyfgGvR5E4APpxJC1MZy1OIEU17eRU2wNu3Abp6ESM2dPnJouJi1SBIvWbXaQWE3d2YXm3YjP0lQuRARWu0S_7tx64QEVDgfo5BE-584YIdRJoIV11jXLYiaAJ91Xw6hMvLz5NkZbx1BRkbJe4-wyAgM8r3ljf5uWQ36weciA/w400-h193/20240219_162625.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Other interior standard features include a wireless phone charger, a memory setting for the driver’s seat, and a 36-month trial of the Kia Connect system for access to remote features such as lock/unlock, climate control, Find My Car, Wi-Fi hotspot, and more.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Among standard safety stems are blind-spot and collision warning assist, rear-cross traffic alert, navigation-based Smart cruise control on main highways, parking distance warning, and the usual collection of side, knee, and side-curtain airbags.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_c9MmesFAnQEuB_2w8qxJblSDyHJO9JgbwpfXmQ5hM1v6B-AZ0pmgfZy7FegrFurvlqkXvODQh5jY_3erMzh19JvXX_QSbiFj_JQF2N21KKxW430IobGJftBpw2uD2c4yVjl-QzXEjL-7iwns9OmUqnOrxlWGkCvTVSAwl1v2mez-B3ferPDRwwA3GHM/s2658/20240219_164422.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1212" data-original-width="2658" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_c9MmesFAnQEuB_2w8qxJblSDyHJO9JgbwpfXmQ5hM1v6B-AZ0pmgfZy7FegrFurvlqkXvODQh5jY_3erMzh19JvXX_QSbiFj_JQF2N21KKxW430IobGJftBpw2uD2c4yVjl-QzXEjL-7iwns9OmUqnOrxlWGkCvTVSAwl1v2mez-B3ferPDRwwA3GHM/w200-h91/20240219_164422.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Engaging the turn signal also activates Kia’s blind-spot monitor in the instrument panel to alert out to what may be coming up from behind you.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Exterior features start with dual sunroofs (though the second row is fixed), a power liftgate, a second-row retractable storage console, roof rails, rear spoiler, and rear privacy glass.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRhIjH3u4yEX24yhpUkvLavnj-DKLbK275bqT9AGfjhPjY9fZPQe513Cvjq-OO-AvaW8UyXBqqScjrxGTLk1qPWkNisd8tgERHcAnvESbCTSzsgK_KP8rAYLa5CuwhbbCgRXYAOaJw315SzWUZo7JT6196_oO8G0djk3wCpTW6A4QMlrJoHROhHrEs5Os/s3171/20240219_163101.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1690" data-original-width="3171" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRhIjH3u4yEX24yhpUkvLavnj-DKLbK275bqT9AGfjhPjY9fZPQe513Cvjq-OO-AvaW8UyXBqqScjrxGTLk1qPWkNisd8tgERHcAnvESbCTSzsgK_KP8rAYLa5CuwhbbCgRXYAOaJw315SzWUZo7JT6196_oO8G0djk3wCpTW6A4QMlrJoHROhHrEs5Os/w200-h108/20240219_163101.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>In addition, the GT-Line gets exclusive features like 21-inch alloy wheels, a head-up display, special exterior and interior styling tweaks, increased towing power (up to 5,000 pounds, though that can affect range), parking collision assist, and Kia’s Remote Parking Assist 2 system (Youtube it).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My test 2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line had as options a Second-Row Relaxation Package (power seats with leg support), Ocean Blue paint, carpeted floor mats, and carpeted cargo floor protector that ran the final total to $78,430 including the $1,495 freight charge.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHpbhku4Nv56u9AXTECya0twrMJ06XJPalDU0hVnR3GgsArMRL1tUHbQ1yCVZF_khyMn4D0NzsiQqAgNQnO38cJeO5Rs68q8duWfSvf5SLMEDutbIA4Zl5fwy4S6SmUSplr-0Y2sx6GmIWxyXxgLvdDmj6BGmaMltJsrdvt8o__QzyHupho0LVobkhI5U/s3820/20240220_171152.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1748" data-original-width="3820" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHpbhku4Nv56u9AXTECya0twrMJ06XJPalDU0hVnR3GgsArMRL1tUHbQ1yCVZF_khyMn4D0NzsiQqAgNQnO38cJeO5Rs68q8duWfSvf5SLMEDutbIA4Zl5fwy4S6SmUSplr-0Y2sx6GmIWxyXxgLvdDmj6BGmaMltJsrdvt8o__QzyHupho0LVobkhI5U/w200-h91/20240220_171152.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>With the EV9 Kia also introduces to us a new word. “Frunk” is merging of the words “front” and “trunk.” It’s a small compartment up front where a gasoline engine would be whee you canr stow small items, like maybe a couple DVDs of<i> Plan 9.</i></div><div><br /></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I liked about the 2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD</b>: The ride is smooth and, naturally, quiet. The cabin seats six comfortably and the third row doesn’t infringe that much on cargo space. It’s about the same size as the company’s full-size Telluride. Charging time is relatively quick, and the plus-300 mile range for the long range battery (standard in AWD models) is a plus. Tech features are plentiful and generally user-friendly except for the lack of knobs to tune the radio and a slow response to some touches.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKQ0aHEA87JBXyIURl_gGp9C7jUpGoGpBdFI8qYNkC5i4PoKSIQmjWb10zmOEzObPh99SVuy26EttalOUu_crjdWC5l9h2hybKkgzoOKRtjeuI2mQ6pypL00J1Jg0g72sYoUeVuKY68ZgBPlDsTLhTUsFWunRjbdeAZBMt9NSc7QIcoHUku0NNhdgNhE/s2916/20240220_171121.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2601" data-original-width="2916" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKQ0aHEA87JBXyIURl_gGp9C7jUpGoGpBdFI8qYNkC5i4PoKSIQmjWb10zmOEzObPh99SVuy26EttalOUu_crjdWC5l9h2hybKkgzoOKRtjeuI2mQ6pypL00J1Jg0g72sYoUeVuKY68ZgBPlDsTLhTUsFWunRjbdeAZBMt9NSc7QIcoHUku0NNhdgNhE/w200-h179/20240220_171121.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD:</b> The placement of the gear shift lever (which includes the starter button) is just weird. If the steering wheel is cranked in a certain direction, fat as it is the lever is actually hidden. The ride may be too quiet. You have to have to be careful around walkers because there is no engine noise to alert them of your presence.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would buy the 2024 Kia EV9 GT-Line AWD?</b> No. I’m still waiting for the charging infrastructure to catch up to electric vehicles. As the top-of-the-line model, this one has the added burden of a high MSRP and the entry level model, though considerably cheaper, doesn’t have nearly as much range.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq9yV3oxeyzlTLvQS_IgQOCLXjucUOOQIrf-JOzqxHlPm3BWOk_fNVP-8EhPfaUQk7nTmkDNzKj1uJcO6ni1XQAj9vv1U3fxg9yL70SYWs2wIP_TSVJA069WDNmKyvjMIXssHrfMD2zM9k2CWHDkNWq6cfmrUZ7hRok6Kyq15vRWT_YdQKJIxTeooGX78/s2131/20240219_162257.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1359" data-original-width="2131" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq9yV3oxeyzlTLvQS_IgQOCLXjucUOOQIrf-JOzqxHlPm3BWOk_fNVP-8EhPfaUQk7nTmkDNzKj1uJcO6ni1XQAj9vv1U3fxg9yL70SYWs2wIP_TSVJA069WDNmKyvjMIXssHrfMD2zM9k2CWHDkNWq6cfmrUZ7hRok6Kyq15vRWT_YdQKJIxTeooGX78/w640-h410/20240219_162257.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-11059289247015532092024-02-19T11:29:00.000-08:002024-02-19T11:29:14.049-08:002024 HYUNDAI TUCSON PHEV<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuP4popOwG4P8GG8UI6y5aXGhyphenhyphen8XkSpFuIKhP82aQiJlVWa9dfV_Db548KBq9BiB-Nh1srldt6Yj11A280boGvfA79YpLLlGS8mJ1QrUO8u-xqorg2TGtGsDsZ9qjly4eM9c7zWKZLecUAjsKiYMb2xJLYm-rgS12bBCVVYa9Z2_sb5_JuNEfXzggdjc/s3162/20240212_151337.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2409" data-original-width="3162" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuP4popOwG4P8GG8UI6y5aXGhyphenhyphen8XkSpFuIKhP82aQiJlVWa9dfV_Db548KBq9BiB-Nh1srldt6Yj11A280boGvfA79YpLLlGS8mJ1QrUO8u-xqorg2TGtGsDsZ9qjly4eM9c7zWKZLecUAjsKiYMb2xJLYm-rgS12bBCVVYa9Z2_sb5_JuNEfXzggdjc/w400-h306/20240212_151337.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">EASE YOUR WAY INTO ELECTRIFICATION REVOLUTION WITH PLUG-IN POWER</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Hyundai seems to have hit a hit a sweet spot in the plug-in version of its Tucson Plug-in SUV with only minor updates the last couple of years since introducing the PHEV model in the 2022 redesign,</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXhx3gBVWiORSRjzL_jXeUm7bp63pd1A6e9rGoIGBxJ3Bd-VEq07p7jryKC3G1miG_ys0KygWjhLC3YWYZTnfqWsoGyAGE-3Q2qoDY4vXeLYat4fvx6RqS-Uj1QccW24bvo84aMbeu96omKJ4FH3Lcc0Ubz2FHo1NzKKq1R-ifoA3WQMQb3TLweUXFSs/s2134/20240212_165243.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1099" data-original-width="2134" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXhx3gBVWiORSRjzL_jXeUm7bp63pd1A6e9rGoIGBxJ3Bd-VEq07p7jryKC3G1miG_ys0KygWjhLC3YWYZTnfqWsoGyAGE-3Q2qoDY4vXeLYat4fvx6RqS-Uj1QccW24bvo84aMbeu96omKJ4FH3Lcc0Ubz2FHo1NzKKq1R-ifoA3WQMQb3TLweUXFSs/w200-h104/20240212_165243.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>The Plug-in (or PHEV) Tucson comes with a nice catalogue of standard features and actually provides a perkier ride than gas-only versions with the 1.6-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder gas engine-electric motor drivetrain delivering a combined 261 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A 6-speed automatic transmission also instead of a CVT (continuously variable transmission) commonly found in hybrid drivetrains makes good use of that power in every day traffic. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5l_34PLAExMOO0Nwgbr2G4aGAcYGbvNaGbQpJo2ULonfQTIN8Noqlsouw2oUS8ekKTACh-fgI8tAMHsAY-dhOTBt3ZU3gOqsI8FdMe83sHegOb7pYyBC3r3lGSAEpLQIj8f4i41BgrLh65jYmCOxNmGBfBwA5Q58kBcM4U3Vgt4JiTstdR37HvPXFt04/s3518/20240212_151957.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1633" data-original-width="3518" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5l_34PLAExMOO0Nwgbr2G4aGAcYGbvNaGbQpJo2ULonfQTIN8Noqlsouw2oUS8ekKTACh-fgI8tAMHsAY-dhOTBt3ZU3gOqsI8FdMe83sHegOb7pYyBC3r3lGSAEpLQIj8f4i41BgrLh65jYmCOxNmGBfBwA5Q58kBcM4U3Vgt4JiTstdR37HvPXFt04/w400-h186/20240212_151957.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">All-wheel drive also is standard on the Hyundai Tucson PHEV.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Naturally, in addition to the extra power with the PHEV, you also get a big boost in fuel economy. The 2024 Hyundai Plug-in offers 33 miles of electric-only driving and sips fuel at the rate of 35 miles-per-gallon of combined electric-gas operation, giving it a range of 420 between fill-ups and charges.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE4RF2NQvBzkEBQrwxgcE09QEyshiBdWqQd_ce4tlxTsuiHqJZe24DIQ6dNUiAwXTgliXg3PMpnMPjWbe5aVPlhjci_aFDKLadm6kwD47NW_kqGI38I6SCJQJ-zfYiuU_m0cTLxF20lZu2vUUGZiVak9oK1pOrDDgxQhaBh37BJh4LZGrPgzz8CYIxf-U/s3896/20240212_151437.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1955" data-original-width="3896" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE4RF2NQvBzkEBQrwxgcE09QEyshiBdWqQd_ce4tlxTsuiHqJZe24DIQ6dNUiAwXTgliXg3PMpnMPjWbe5aVPlhjci_aFDKLadm6kwD47NW_kqGI38I6SCJQJ-zfYiuU_m0cTLxF20lZu2vUUGZiVak9oK1pOrDDgxQhaBh37BJh4LZGrPgzz8CYIxf-U/w400-h201/20240212_151437.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The government rates the gasoline versions with front-wheel drive at 25 miles-per-gallon city, 32 highway, and 28 combined wit a total range of 333 miles.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Only two trim levels with the SEL serving as the base model carrying a starting price tag of $40,100 when the $1,375 destination and delivery charge is included. This review is based on the Limited trim that takes the Tucson PHEV into the mid-$40,000 range with a total of $46,825 including the freight charge.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTwm-IU1Vql9QZsgN3y_U7Bt4BRK1zU-Pu1c4d3UykOk0feWlV_Af80MSOpTXjOe_Cq-t8lTkKUu0MJ50CyoG5P0iH0jcw_FhV-QaaYqccG6Zn16lMFQGQ6K1lU3l-XFqO29tzHXqHOu3PAHdEL5EgnmLUOdiUUfepxtDmUfg5cOzPUKozle1X5GNF5U/s2825/20240212_151921.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2138" data-original-width="2825" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTwm-IU1Vql9QZsgN3y_U7Bt4BRK1zU-Pu1c4d3UykOk0feWlV_Af80MSOpTXjOe_Cq-t8lTkKUu0MJ50CyoG5P0iH0jcw_FhV-QaaYqccG6Zn16lMFQGQ6K1lU3l-XFqO29tzHXqHOu3PAHdEL5EgnmLUOdiUUfepxtDmUfg5cOzPUKozle1X5GNF5U/w400-h303/20240212_151921.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, 19-inch wheels, automatic LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED taillights, and roof side rails.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Comfort and convenience features include push-button start, hands-free power liftgate, leather-trimmed seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual automatic temperature control with rear vents, heated and ventilated power front seats, heated rear seats, surround-view camera, rain-sensing windshield wipers, parking assist, wireless device charging, a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, Bose premium sound system, and Smart Cruise Control that is Hyundai’s upgraded adaptive cruise control system.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp0ZDNbbd8877aUU__xZjkKWUdc7zi3QVZLmi2vyYwRPeD2pK27WAH7KcNggkT97IgvGSLZRnKOKBUEhrcPGe__6NTJB_WOfwzI-hrCUHzfaXO9bjbhasHKG_xECnkGyXdzLR5wQuCwNG7aHOMM6tTAVslaMBHJGdVfjmTzpBvrxTSeypCRcdll9VCK88/s3044/20240212_155425.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1353" data-original-width="3044" height="89" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp0ZDNbbd8877aUU__xZjkKWUdc7zi3QVZLmi2vyYwRPeD2pK27WAH7KcNggkT97IgvGSLZRnKOKBUEhrcPGe__6NTJB_WOfwzI-hrCUHzfaXO9bjbhasHKG_xECnkGyXdzLR5wQuCwNG7aHOMM6tTAVslaMBHJGdVfjmTzpBvrxTSeypCRcdll9VCK88/w200-h89/20240212_155425.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Safety technology includes frontal collision avoidance assist, blind spot collision assist, rear cross-traffic collision assist, front and rear parking distance warning, safe exit alert, and the usual collection of seat belts and airbags. Engaging the turn signal activate’s Hyundai’s blind-spot monitor that displays in the instrument panel what might be coming up from behind you. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The driver’s seat also includes lumbar support and a memory function.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1B6ogX7rWJ4e9O7B8RmZoxOrQBTqPUFTHW1WbHIDBezDF1_kZU7Ls6WmtJmmLKLd4Wefoby_67SYTxhc7gxxhs0L4XJQUqkq0XrdgI3DfRbzAcPGTg4YZ53IiBfpoLJ3c9nctFy1e-8bsqzXJHCQaTEu2VqFKOlWCwhMPAKYj2ZNM5wsLVOlGi21QSH4/s3597/20240212_154506.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1978" data-original-width="3597" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1B6ogX7rWJ4e9O7B8RmZoxOrQBTqPUFTHW1WbHIDBezDF1_kZU7Ls6WmtJmmLKLd4Wefoby_67SYTxhc7gxxhs0L4XJQUqkq0XrdgI3DfRbzAcPGTg4YZ53IiBfpoLJ3c9nctFy1e-8bsqzXJHCQaTEu2VqFKOlWCwhMPAKYj2ZNM5wsLVOlGi21QSH4/w400-h220/20240212_154506.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The cabin itself is roomy and if not premium level at least upscale and eye-pleasing. Front-seat riders get 41.4 inches of legroom and those in the second row get 39.5. Not sure what is gained, if anything, by it, but a push-button panel on the center console is used to select gears instead of a shift leaver.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpANMN84KwnLyNc79PmxPwHLcRhYIsely5V3Y5M9M3XBpLMXxp5IMfvTRlYyz9tfDDmUdoQ4lP18qWNkMi_Pok7plu0FNEgPA_ygxn3rsYXnFUAztiglry1L7MAzrxm8EEvo5rLHkKfCWPhAa4nWhuIkHvql8NhRFC1IGHqw48jgxJWqmNDCnhO1KPXKw/s3635/20240212_165320.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2286" data-original-width="3635" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpANMN84KwnLyNc79PmxPwHLcRhYIsely5V3Y5M9M3XBpLMXxp5IMfvTRlYyz9tfDDmUdoQ4lP18qWNkMi_Pok7plu0FNEgPA_ygxn3rsYXnFUAztiglry1L7MAzrxm8EEvo5rLHkKfCWPhAa4nWhuIkHvql8NhRFC1IGHqw48jgxJWqmNDCnhO1KPXKw/w200-h126/20240212_165320.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Cargo space with all seats in place is 31.9 cubic feet. That is considerably less than what you get with gas-engine and HEV (standard hybrid) models because of the PHEV’s battery pack, but it expands to 66.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">All in all, the Hyundai Tucson PHEV gives you a comfortable way to ease into the so-called electrification revolution that the government seems to be forcing on us with no range worries or recharging woes that are inherent in all-electric vehicles.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNncX8o3FSqwMoJBM8piFv083INPBNOuhPgs-3zcot_azCfwem3MQYzT2Np6OQF0pby7VsTAIKDiGnh0bMG1rdXeIi6GRlXveLhokuiGgWYx3zNEhP_pnzvwOfHnd6V2Ik_TwujIKRJl-rW1WFcDv1XmNRJT1r2e-sB-eDngEjpBvaO-epNfXdGC8GeHc/s2687/20240212_154334.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2687" data-original-width="1685" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNncX8o3FSqwMoJBM8piFv083INPBNOuhPgs-3zcot_azCfwem3MQYzT2Np6OQF0pby7VsTAIKDiGnh0bMG1rdXeIi6GRlXveLhokuiGgWYx3zNEhP_pnzvwOfHnd6V2Ik_TwujIKRJl-rW1WFcDv1XmNRJT1r2e-sB-eDngEjpBvaO-epNfXdGC8GeHc/w126-h200/20240212_154334.jpeg" width="126" /></a></div>What I liked about the Hyundai Tucson Plug-in: </b>The hybrid drivetrain provides a peppier performance than the standard gasoline version.The cabin is roomy and quiet. There’s a semi-premium feel about it. Cargo space is plentiful. Infotainment features are plentiful and user-friendly.with one quibble (see below). The transition from EV mode to the gas engine is seamless.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the Hyundai Tucson Plug-in:</b> I would prefer knobs to adjust volume and surf the radio dial instead of having to push a button on the centerstack facing. The touch-style operation can be distracting for the driver to use. Only two trim levels are offered on the Plug-in.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the Hyundai Tucson Plug-in?</b> Yes. The Plug-in version offers the best of two worlds when it comes to the drivetrain with the capability of handling short hops via electric drive while offering a gas engine for longer excursions. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHUgW8LQe_wtSSbl04dFIiTMiygJkX65oX5gqGgeMSPFuEODC80OaSUDE5opmCIzvIk2FztPzrLs3ERR27DZbYz_6n9SOwFPCV6ncvYeu7UyCAVK3hP59zZkndfLhO9kO7Y-TaDuZBnmx7zfInp68bxELCvLRxyre6u0kRkgZNuEXVF7a4JOcp_O18EA/s2938/20240212_151635.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2208" data-original-width="2938" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHUgW8LQe_wtSSbl04dFIiTMiygJkX65oX5gqGgeMSPFuEODC80OaSUDE5opmCIzvIk2FztPzrLs3ERR27DZbYz_6n9SOwFPCV6ncvYeu7UyCAVK3hP59zZkndfLhO9kO7Y-TaDuZBnmx7zfInp68bxELCvLRxyre6u0kRkgZNuEXVF7a4JOcp_O18EA/w640-h480/20240212_151635.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-8291328539096006372024-02-14T12:12:00.000-08:002024-02-14T12:12:22.487-08:002024 MERCEDES-AMG GLS63<div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafLBh2bj9quw5N9mtfjFFRuj5AB7mZWGhIvCri5jCja01RioFhTwxtf3q9jw3q0fi0rB-I2W83NHk2CLvg2ZDL1hpL8UH9Dj0Bh0qnQW2jsLTVo2wquGNXbpXvXx4XEVxX03thyphenhyphen8IVVV7oFzvjkt4aH_XGopEkfygAZF8I9cNDJCxMlM4cNvJqHWRCS4/s3649/23C0118_001_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1924" data-original-width="3649" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafLBh2bj9quw5N9mtfjFFRuj5AB7mZWGhIvCri5jCja01RioFhTwxtf3q9jw3q0fi0rB-I2W83NHk2CLvg2ZDL1hpL8UH9Dj0Bh0qnQW2jsLTVo2wquGNXbpXvXx4XEVxX03thyphenhyphen8IVVV7oFzvjkt4aH_XGopEkfygAZF8I9cNDJCxMlM4cNvJqHWRCS4/w400-h211/23C0118_001_0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">GLS SERVES AS FLAGSHIP MODEL <br />FOR MERCEDES-BENZ SUV FLEET</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Though its roots go back to the late 1990s when Mercedes-Benz introduced its first SUV, dubbed the M and later adjusted to ML to alleviate a conflict with BMW’s M line, the GLS came into being as a 2017 model when it replaced the GL-Class that had served as Mercedes’ flagship SUV since its introduction in 2006.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPHKW5hFAfr5Rj9Dj9Iw9YW_Fh4E2Yce9GEik_llfsrDcRZJfaam4XiId8Wuqel6l7TUq8nH8j8M4u_bXsiUiVdNDePEQlbr2VZtnE65hsM0Mgna0EF1_-hXH6Kpor_bmKqRM4jff9NsidRmcblYKGuERJAe1KIuSstJudA-0Nxq9JTXGOCPkkBlZVo04/s906/20240205_141603.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="897" data-original-width="906" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPHKW5hFAfr5Rj9Dj9Iw9YW_Fh4E2Yce9GEik_llfsrDcRZJfaam4XiId8Wuqel6l7TUq8nH8j8M4u_bXsiUiVdNDePEQlbr2VZtnE65hsM0Mgna0EF1_-hXH6Kpor_bmKqRM4jff9NsidRmcblYKGuERJAe1KIuSstJudA-0Nxq9JTXGOCPkkBlZVo04/w200-h199/20240205_141603.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>In the alphabet soup that serves that fills the Mercedes-Benz automotive nomenclature chart, the “G” designates the GLS as an SUV, G coming from the German word gelandewagen for “off-road vehicle.”</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The “S” makes it equivalent to the flagship “S-Class” sedan in company hierarchy, thus assuming the role as the German automaker’s flagship.SUV just a notch above the GLE (which is equivalent to the E-Class sedan). </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As for the “L,” it basically serves as window dressing..</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0GjeB3I1DduwWbQQGUaIh5M5kQSfkXU4EzrEPL_9TQnQl6Nqr4Cf94CEvuvUR5gwRdeX7K3BqyGBXeXXA5FNz7ueZahsmG4eQTvu_IVZENXX5EtxFNZDmCH5GaOVQ2L-7A7qHmDaby6td43RBttDNbWS4cAHaIwkxKZ1i5Nkp-BW4u8z9F7YPBuYY38/s3338/20240205_141515.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1632" data-original-width="3338" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0GjeB3I1DduwWbQQGUaIh5M5kQSfkXU4EzrEPL_9TQnQl6Nqr4Cf94CEvuvUR5gwRdeX7K3BqyGBXeXXA5FNz7ueZahsmG4eQTvu_IVZENXX5EtxFNZDmCH5GaOVQ2L-7A7qHmDaby6td43RBttDNbWS4cAHaIwkxKZ1i5Nkp-BW4u8z9F7YPBuYY38/w400-h195/20240205_141515.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS is part of the third generation of the model and comes in three trims. The GLS450 is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine while the GLS580 gets a 4.0-liter turbo V8.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This review based on the beast of the lineup, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 with a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 under the hood that boosts horsepower and torque to 603 and 627 pound-feet, respectively, over the 580’s 510/538, respectively.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJy2-bGrUPU4R6Z19q85LligKQGxW1yykAeuhPrH41VAtNJFMu4noHbZ8XnnXmRg9ZY-wbUMg-JvZerm7q3dJ7USu4EEqv_IDuvI3t7gVrH7-YW4-7NrlMqf2PhPFBn_7BFPtvtYaCXq8cDmITuL-IIOMGPU6nl6ho-C4Fw4cDYhyphenhyphenfNWph6f9l9oyWgYg/s3153/20240205_141130.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1496" data-original-width="3153" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJy2-bGrUPU4R6Z19q85LligKQGxW1yykAeuhPrH41VAtNJFMu4noHbZ8XnnXmRg9ZY-wbUMg-JvZerm7q3dJ7USu4EEqv_IDuvI3t7gVrH7-YW4-7NrlMqf2PhPFBn_7BFPtvtYaCXq8cDmITuL-IIOMGPU6nl6ho-C4Fw4cDYhyphenhyphenfNWph6f9l9oyWgYg/w400-h191/20240205_141130.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A 9-speed automatic transmission,, air suspension,, and 4MATIC all-wheel drive are standard.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">It is a thirsty beast drinking premium-grade fuel at the rate of 14 miles-per-gallon city, 18 highway, and 16 com. The government says you will spend $10,500 more in fuel costs over the average new vehicle in a span of five years. We can always trust the the government, right?</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMR3rC1XxMYnVsz2ZJcJU9TuURBo0O9UtNot-cca6z4Ll8Ne0Zuvz93bjRBs_tjA860YJcA6d3QqbZtzGn9mglTe47MkBzALvyDnj9NlITzL0pXkVjhG_xk84ejzfmtPi3Cg7ZwGuhe41PsdeP4Q4NU4EcGyiaNHdSHPmja5DWJOK4_oCl4i8cJiJ2aNc/s2862/20240205_141311.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1695" data-original-width="2862" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMR3rC1XxMYnVsz2ZJcJU9TuURBo0O9UtNot-cca6z4Ll8Ne0Zuvz93bjRBs_tjA860YJcA6d3QqbZtzGn9mglTe47MkBzALvyDnj9NlITzL0pXkVjhG_xk84ejzfmtPi3Cg7ZwGuhe41PsdeP4Q4NU4EcGyiaNHdSHPmja5DWJOK4_oCl4i8cJiJ2aNc/w400-h239/20240205_141311.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Packed with all of the latest tech features and with beau-coup room for up to seven riders as well as their stuff, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 satiates the power-hungry and family needs in one slick-looking vehicle.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWi5gGJzxVR4kuW001RujDewSorS69VKZbv6szIUBwpML0R8QghwawnJ6_jDf8OvHyOyFwvNQo-C2exzDkUH9HxUVGQzXpeI-f9QLl2-D_jhwvPBIEBYCkTfyocW3BWt4QI7jKsmxO0LUkWTFquwDVhUNRlQzm2d8KXChYg6pVg9e43epmEu2pG-GWJE/s2131/20240205_142928.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2004" data-original-width="2131" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWi5gGJzxVR4kuW001RujDewSorS69VKZbv6szIUBwpML0R8QghwawnJ6_jDf8OvHyOyFwvNQo-C2exzDkUH9HxUVGQzXpeI-f9QLl2-D_jhwvPBIEBYCkTfyocW3BWt4QI7jKsmxO0LUkWTFquwDVhUNRlQzm2d8KXChYg6pVg9e43epmEu2pG-GWJE/w200-h188/20240205_142928.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>New for this year are a new front bumper, grille, and taillights and new 21-, 22-, and 23-inch wheel designs. Instead of the usual Mercedes logo above the grille the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 gets one recognizing its AMG status.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Mercedes upgraded tech features that operate either by the “Hey, Mercedes” voice-activated system (well, at least most of them do) or by swiping the 12.3-inch touchscreen display or the laptop-like pad on the center console.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">All GLS trims get a surround-view camera as standard and especially considering the vehicle’s size, this is a welcome addition.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI3kNiUM3oIqnipVIBFu_z2I6TYiltOqvoHeugdSJdQavHmNn05gbfm0I_LIiL_M7ZYSIbh_WyTc1h2SBHexaTiktKqOfiL3nX0UnztJFa-OJnvQajfDk02nH7bBi5-ZVsGTQ49KB-aWWWIyBiu3O3XOZWJodWaHy7JDZphDqeRWfXOPpPI62PwvklQ5Q/s3575/20240205_142601.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1988" data-original-width="3575" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI3kNiUM3oIqnipVIBFu_z2I6TYiltOqvoHeugdSJdQavHmNn05gbfm0I_LIiL_M7ZYSIbh_WyTc1h2SBHexaTiktKqOfiL3nX0UnztJFa-OJnvQajfDk02nH7bBi5-ZVsGTQ49KB-aWWWIyBiu3O3XOZWJodWaHy7JDZphDqeRWfXOPpPI62PwvklQ5Q/w400-h224/20240205_142601.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The list of standard features including in the hefty MSRP for the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 include navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, 64-color ambient lightning, heated and ventilated front seats with massage function, 5-zone climate control, self-close doors, and a Burmester surround-sound system.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard safety features include active brake assist, blind-spot and lane-keeping assist, and attention assist.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_36i2EIzkBOwrQzjZiLFFhHq43b4Tk2sbPRO9ro4Tl25qrasRADZ4GD-BQMR6GCjLq2QfpLGsNv1IWUqpVRlLaxDaVAJN_pghxHbkVNlfpCJ7QanCXBx5LJbLcJ_scR3QQER8z_mpcloxMlvT72gEeofkbTdJsMvkAjNa15FiKfJJSzValFxyzMKzBu8/s4080/20240205_142754.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3060" data-original-width="4080" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_36i2EIzkBOwrQzjZiLFFhHq43b4Tk2sbPRO9ro4Tl25qrasRADZ4GD-BQMR6GCjLq2QfpLGsNv1IWUqpVRlLaxDaVAJN_pghxHbkVNlfpCJ7QanCXBx5LJbLcJ_scR3QQER8z_mpcloxMlvT72gEeofkbTdJsMvkAjNa15FiKfJJSzValFxyzMKzBu8/w200-h150/20240205_142754.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>My test 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLS63 came with 23-inch multi-spoke AMG wheels, carbon-fiber trim, and a dash cam that ran the final total up to $153,000, including the $1,150 destination and delivery fee, from the base MSRP of $145,580.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I liked about the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLS63:</b> There is plenty of room and plenty of power. Even third-row riders get comfort. Cargo capacity is good even with third-row seats in place. Its performance is more like you would expect from a midsize or even a compact SUV instead of a full-size model (except when it comes to tight parking lots). The surround-view camera system is an invaluable asset, particularly in tight conditions.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCZIF-ypI90UqUEsJB21Ng_HjoGazcFHPsJwWyQeORikIIkHqtQ2P8A4d1ovaoFl_5_9IeSaFUU7nyIsvc7u_ot_DoMDTLnhqLXXZjnSkOBP4uloKm-TdmNjkKOl0RI3BBbo7e6F-wxfP6LwVbElO8owoJbX1HtDz9E6G6cryTzchfBK8UMzwAve8seLU/s2230/20240205_142611.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2230" data-original-width="1790" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCZIF-ypI90UqUEsJB21Ng_HjoGazcFHPsJwWyQeORikIIkHqtQ2P8A4d1ovaoFl_5_9IeSaFUU7nyIsvc7u_ot_DoMDTLnhqLXXZjnSkOBP4uloKm-TdmNjkKOl0RI3BBbo7e6F-wxfP6LwVbElO8owoJbX1HtDz9E6G6cryTzchfBK8UMzwAve8seLU/w161-h200/20240205_142611.jpeg" width="161" /></a></div>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLS63: </b>The six-figure price tag is to be expected with the “S” and “AMG” designations but still is daunting. Infotainment features are plentiful but come with a fairly steep learning curve. I don’t care for the “swiping” technique for manually selecting functions on the touchscreen or console pad. Steering wheel buttons are tiny and seem to be designed with the fingers of a 5-year-old in mind.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLS63?</b> Too big for my taste, and the operation of the infotainment system can be maddening. Do you really need a six-figure SUV with zero-to-60 mph capability of around four seconds? </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZomR_02qy3dc9HcEkdV0aDqlHUmC3B6yDuCt-OW1OJG60_LCAh8lq2025oaDDh3HXtZlQJLcVqGrhxI_UN1hXBQcsvT93t3Nt0T92Zr5oAa2UMKxbQfD9w_u7327gOig6csR3VN2IQV6unvNWhmWk-O3GgRbtSZMWIQVFzzcq_0yz1-t0O6ZrTqC43M/s2774/20240205_142100.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2284" data-original-width="2774" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZomR_02qy3dc9HcEkdV0aDqlHUmC3B6yDuCt-OW1OJG60_LCAh8lq2025oaDDh3HXtZlQJLcVqGrhxI_UN1hXBQcsvT93t3Nt0T92Zr5oAa2UMKxbQfD9w_u7327gOig6csR3VN2IQV6unvNWhmWk-O3GgRbtSZMWIQVFzzcq_0yz1-t0O6ZrTqC43M/w640-h526/20240205_142100.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-56394881961318105932024-02-06T08:37:00.000-08:002024-02-06T08:37:41.228-08:002024 ALFA ROMEO GIULIA<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48BIFKvnFGnubBgDQk7IcnWTLRk7YtjYDJgmSRM_axIqoqxhkJfm926WswKYAPV3d47JkAR2L1zdxPF0glCYbW-BgJBWMV4n4D5fYm2qqbgNXWv0j7y2ZFZJ26q2f6O6tlwkX18Iq1hNUToUMCunEYXtuWF3cC8NlAukbCtc8M2-lNMpoZGRDBE30w9A/s3069/20240129_101704.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1770" data-original-width="3069" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48BIFKvnFGnubBgDQk7IcnWTLRk7YtjYDJgmSRM_axIqoqxhkJfm926WswKYAPV3d47JkAR2L1zdxPF0glCYbW-BgJBWMV4n4D5fYm2qqbgNXWv0j7y2ZFZJ26q2f6O6tlwkX18Iq1hNUToUMCunEYXtuWF3cC8NlAukbCtc8M2-lNMpoZGRDBE30w9A/w400-h233/20240129_101704.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">ALFA ROMEO GIULIA A SPORT SEDAN</span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">FOR THOSE WHO THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Looking for a small luxury sport sedan that stands out from the crowd? The Alfa Romeo Giulia sedan may be just what you are seeking.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwl1RMHZUJpjR5I6qyzHXUW_LlCt0QpIvM-eYyZB6Nxk4J70eodTTTtWjtw-dqHgSHK_nvtoUlr_BTh-N646P8NqzVDIOeu7ZaPm_1waRWw5Fh55RAYOdYogcdTtsmtysfJPnMLv6F0BvXhMv2urxStc3-NX7axmp0efWV5udWWBbvBGLUV2jqklBHnc/s527/20240129_102450.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="527" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwl1RMHZUJpjR5I6qyzHXUW_LlCt0QpIvM-eYyZB6Nxk4J70eodTTTtWjtw-dqHgSHK_nvtoUlr_BTh-N646P8NqzVDIOeu7ZaPm_1waRWw5Fh55RAYOdYogcdTtsmtysfJPnMLv6F0BvXhMv2urxStc3-NX7axmp0efWV5udWWBbvBGLUV2jqklBHnc/w200-h196/20240129_102450.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Introduced as a 2017 model when the company revived a nameplate from the 1960s and ’70s, the Alfa Romeo Giulia delivers captivating performance in an attractive, distinctive package and at a competitive price.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Still in its first generation, the Alfa Romeo Giulia gets a mild refreshing for 2024 with new headlights and taillights, a new digital instrument panel that offers three different layout choices, and updated Alfa Connect services the company says “offer comfort and security and improved over-the-air update capability.”</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia also gets new trim levels with limited edition Competizione and 100th Anniversary Quadrifoglio models joining the Sprint, Ti, Lusso, Veloce, Estrema and Quadrifoglio editions from 2023.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrF30RhQAeGdUFYGRHN2g4Ia-hGONO6m-kO31AjVT_JUCltiGJqvxPyyUxXLlrUleIKHiSJcj_0zNddWhvDyv6mRY0P4aJmGv1BzUS0mzSUAflL02FbF_mtEmfRh3B6so75f9h5dvID5bm91XWe2xmKoOOLlEynfn1ovPEQIeEmxJNAMPjBCy03_faOGk/s3288/20240129_102152.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1645" data-original-width="3288" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrF30RhQAeGdUFYGRHN2g4Ia-hGONO6m-kO31AjVT_JUCltiGJqvxPyyUxXLlrUleIKHiSJcj_0zNddWhvDyv6mRY0P4aJmGv1BzUS0mzSUAflL02FbF_mtEmfRh3B6so75f9h5dvID5bm91XWe2xmKoOOLlEynfn1ovPEQIeEmxJNAMPjBCy03_faOGk/w400-h200/20240129_102152.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This review is based on the Veloce trim, which is Italian for “swift, rapid” and hits the sweet spot between the base Sprint and high-performance Quadrifoglio models.(Quadrifoglio is Italian for four-leaf clover and harkens back to the company’s racing heritage from the 1920s; Google it.) </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A 2.0-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 280 horsepower and 306 pound-feet of torque is standard on all but the Quadrifoglia trim which sports a 2.9L, twin-turbo V6 that bumps those figures up to 505 and 443 respectively.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7udiMdH0HOkRxQIYQAsgnNcR_ALTVDv9Uz__uG-C-iw0Ydz8z_vxUajxNRVKbesUPzd-kRsicXXofzaAJVhXhTvKIJaBzKgdiXIZVGgG97Xo944iTZnRkeezsua5taIpJTjUhVrMBgjWetan_4MG6YIBZjwLNo5XPTCWiu2B33fQ2HHIiXpVO6JPALZg/s3643/20240129_101830.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1852" data-original-width="3643" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7udiMdH0HOkRxQIYQAsgnNcR_ALTVDv9Uz__uG-C-iw0Ydz8z_vxUajxNRVKbesUPzd-kRsicXXofzaAJVhXhTvKIJaBzKgdiXIZVGgG97Xo944iTZnRkeezsua5taIpJTjUhVrMBgjWetan_4MG6YIBZjwLNo5XPTCWiu2B33fQ2HHIiXpVO6JPALZg/w400-h204/20240129_101830.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">An 8-speed automatic transmission with huge paddle shifters mounted on the steering column is standard on all trims except the Ti, which doesn’t come with paddle shifters. Rear-wheel drive also is standard with all-wheel drive available as a $2,000 option.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My test 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce with rear-wheel drive had fuel economy numbers of 24 miles-per-gallon city, 33 highway, and 27 combined using premium grade fuel. AWD models get a mile or so less (23/31/26) and the V6 drinks fuel at the rate of 17 mpg city, 25 highway and 20 combined).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY51osPRxFt-1_J6qP17qBzQBz9wKkQyTyMyoCXZLq61QzlLtnXtFadZzg8AmSV_tlFF7FF-mvt09T851cDz37grkHYYaxHwClQEsPmNaOUUYPMq6QEoZZ757KAXLWR3yqU85pQKEwAWZC6_ESiaCiS1wsDKV5s9vsaQxc2Zd2BfZXGXjQus8PHGwoqYQ/s2124/20240129_102347.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1329" data-original-width="2124" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY51osPRxFt-1_J6qP17qBzQBz9wKkQyTyMyoCXZLq61QzlLtnXtFadZzg8AmSV_tlFF7FF-mvt09T851cDz37grkHYYaxHwClQEsPmNaOUUYPMq6QEoZZ757KAXLWR3yqU85pQKEwAWZC6_ESiaCiS1wsDKV5s9vsaQxc2Zd2BfZXGXjQus8PHGwoqYQ/w400-h250/20240129_102347.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Inside, the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce includes as standard equipment the 12.3 instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, heated front and rear seats, an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, red-leather front sport seats, an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat and 6-way power passenger seat, both with 4-way lumbar support.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Exterior features include 18-inch wheels shod with all-season performance tires, Brembo front brakes, a carbon-fiber drive shaft, dual exhaust tips, sport suspension, and LED headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS0NOHB3XyvFaQWu85BWvpg9SF_wwxBzb-C-iEdO_1XonpU9P5uY-9a1zttE2oC_jy2LoZKHoB7jS3DigCyySYF70i_lUpja2Zncwo7-a5gFVWyLO4d9TiJysGapQ8swAjL_JVRqy3ypSMz0E3L23SUpT5Uh7395QhgR08EsPfuTw6o-JIEi6qkpgUg8Y/s3620/20240129_100013.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2143" data-original-width="3620" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS0NOHB3XyvFaQWu85BWvpg9SF_wwxBzb-C-iEdO_1XonpU9P5uY-9a1zttE2oC_jy2LoZKHoB7jS3DigCyySYF70i_lUpja2Zncwo7-a5gFVWyLO4d9TiJysGapQ8swAjL_JVRqy3ypSMz0E3L23SUpT5Uh7395QhgR08EsPfuTw6o-JIEi6qkpgUg8Y/w400-h236/20240129_100013.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard safety features start with forward collision warning and continue with lane-departure warning, blind-spot detection, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic dimming exterior mirrors, and a rear backup camera.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A starting MSRP of $44,420 covers all that. Options on my test vehicle starting with the Veloce package ($3,600), a Premium Interior Package ($2,225) that included the Harmon-Kardon premium sound system and leather dash and upper doors, and an Active Assist-Plus Package ($700) that included traffic sign information and recognition, lane-keep assist, and driver attention alert. Red leather sport seats, Alfa-Rossa Red exterior paint, and 19-inch wheels (replacing the standard 18s) ran the final total to $55,140 including the destination and delivery fee of $1,595.</span></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I liked about the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce RWD:</b> Performance matches the distinctive exterior styling. It’s a fun car to drive. Three drive modes (Dynamic, Natural, and Advanced Efficiency) are offered. MSRP is competitive in the class and covers a long list of standard features. The optional sport seats are comfortable. Trunk space (13.4 cubic feet) is generous for the small luxury sedan segment and you can fold the back seats for more storage space.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1inrokz4ArtQbeHgaxZlTNd7zRBJzg0quSxfmU9leSljnfR66XLbQLmaXZUpjTrhNn8QPI2YbtMfwEGYmMHXGfezX0uqjYWT0_F9LezbFDJfeZ9Qyb6IPDW9r6ql2Vg8XGl3D33_9V-r5LaqaxjvzQ6ZIoHgeoI8xg0pZSpoqakgc63oMI2BoxHpCnGg/s2199/20240129_100113.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2199" data-original-width="1088" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1inrokz4ArtQbeHgaxZlTNd7zRBJzg0quSxfmU9leSljnfR66XLbQLmaXZUpjTrhNn8QPI2YbtMfwEGYmMHXGfezX0uqjYWT0_F9LezbFDJfeZ9Qyb6IPDW9r6ql2Vg8XGl3D33_9V-r5LaqaxjvzQ6ZIoHgeoI8xg0pZSpoqakgc63oMI2BoxHpCnGg/s320/20240129_100113.jpeg" width="158" /></a><b style="text-align: left;"></b></div>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce RWD:</b> Infotainment features are on the fussy side to operate and the touchscreen is kind of small especially when put up against other luxury models. It provides a small image for the backup camera. Tech features work off the touchscreen with some, but not all, also selectable via a dial on the center console. The backseat is a bit cramped. The firm ride may not be comfortable for all.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce RWD?</b> The Italian styling has its appeal and at a fairly affordable price I would definitely give it a look. Just wish the operation of such simple actions like changing radio stations was simpler.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg0akCoUY0P_UxrBcJXSS8foGmu3Ts-W89GAs7JGfj9GwXzcREEjY6Fcre-KM7H0QpOwRc7hcJqyiQk8zX-oI3HPk2E_28uPCw7PC1VX2UoV83JHGORcFfnfhaB4uY6IluiCmZMe1fosTJDtQX967xfUGRi46rPXcb9GuOCUE6j28vf1vMrcXm-Vflplk/s2174/20240129_102003.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2174" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg0akCoUY0P_UxrBcJXSS8foGmu3Ts-W89GAs7JGfj9GwXzcREEjY6Fcre-KM7H0QpOwRc7hcJqyiQk8zX-oI3HPk2E_28uPCw7PC1VX2UoV83JHGORcFfnfhaB4uY6IluiCmZMe1fosTJDtQX967xfUGRi46rPXcb9GuOCUE6j28vf1vMrcXm-Vflplk/w640-h426/20240129_102003.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-37516115264785823022024-02-01T12:41:00.000-08:002024-02-01T12:42:02.539-08:002024 GMC SIERRA 1500 DENALI ULTIMATE<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrr60vTTrWOeYqL9vlDGeU_-jzXhOsQ81KOK7m7M1HQQyb2qZNWP33XnpEd0-68G-04IcPSP4xDxBHdh0VWtJAro4B7eC-nhPz2KK1khChGVqHhhX_-1ljwQ2FMQ5uwdD-oSjk-qMlO-Ziz-PB2dnVK5lMic_P4yao60bQuuBtdfU0zA-kIg1aiF2fLU/s3708/20240119_152906.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2385" data-original-width="3708" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrr60vTTrWOeYqL9vlDGeU_-jzXhOsQ81KOK7m7M1HQQyb2qZNWP33XnpEd0-68G-04IcPSP4xDxBHdh0VWtJAro4B7eC-nhPz2KK1khChGVqHhhX_-1ljwQ2FMQ5uwdD-oSjk-qMlO-Ziz-PB2dnVK5lMic_P4yao60bQuuBtdfU0zA-kIg1aiF2fLU/w400-h258/20240119_152906.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">AMERICA’s LONGSTANDING LOVE AFFAIR WITH PICKUP TRUCKS CONTINUES TO THRIVE</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">When it comes to motor vehicles, America has a long established love affair of pickup trucks as evidenced by the fact that the top three sellers traditionally are pickups from Ford (F-Series), Chevrolet (Silverado), and Ram.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAblLrIpBt7qShHjDDmoIvYiPb3ICvecRSqxrAwQnnx5xWKKSa6mJAU46NL9mjFEjRsVjqoBz6mrV2LJg7yB3N_LHqpYBT_q34sBWazX3RLZzadtt4HC6E_6jmc72foLqMv1_Wnmx3GeXzFoXm2HdnpWTBhw_2gbwexem9BxyZpPCnfcWDkhiUuC7aijA/s2358/20240119_152936.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="734" data-original-width="2358" height="63" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAblLrIpBt7qShHjDDmoIvYiPb3ICvecRSqxrAwQnnx5xWKKSa6mJAU46NL9mjFEjRsVjqoBz6mrV2LJg7yB3N_LHqpYBT_q34sBWazX3RLZzadtt4HC6E_6jmc72foLqMv1_Wnmx3GeXzFoXm2HdnpWTBhw_2gbwexem9BxyZpPCnfcWDkhiUuC7aijA/w200-h63/20240119_152936.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>And those are full-size babies, not the cute little modified SUVs that some manufacturers have come out with in recent years. Real workhorses.with top-of-the-line models offering a combination of luxury, utility, and versatility that not even the ubiquitous SUV can beat.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Sitting at No. 4 in the pickup segment and No. 7 in overall vehicle sales, according to 2023 figures from Kelley Blue Book, is another domestic entry, the GMC Sierra 1500. It is essentially an upgraded version of the Chevy Silverado and is promoted as “Professional Grade” in its TV ad campaign.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tC89tJyu9qL2wQ5dWjDSz2H29kICBw1ollNUZAylhKDcosNTTsaNsOlvA-80i8Masm38zruackWbLwyzMAgpfcNaW5I3jlD6NkwFeW3qEUOCtO5suVzOTNdCgyR8FiJ-QoUSyNcrdfSUxJwLScwFnR56yb1_j0-u6h8DQTYaQUKOlcciJd4MXOrqZJU/s3216/20240119_152659.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1791" data-original-width="3216" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tC89tJyu9qL2wQ5dWjDSz2H29kICBw1ollNUZAylhKDcosNTTsaNsOlvA-80i8Masm38zruackWbLwyzMAgpfcNaW5I3jlD6NkwFeW3qEUOCtO5suVzOTNdCgyR8FiJ-QoUSyNcrdfSUxJwLScwFnR56yb1_j0-u6h8DQTYaQUKOlcciJd4MXOrqZJU/w400-h224/20240119_152659.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 offers buyers a myriad of choices when it comes to powertrain, drive configurations, cabin accommodations, bed size, colors (two new for 2024), wheels, and eight.different trims.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This review is based on the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate that sits at the top oft the portfolio and carries the biggest price tag.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFGFhm9fGa4GDG1reDJBs7kgtxTZw-uXONHLBhAeBGv0QgOuZ-dWk_3V2d2jSzAQ2vwZZq5FXswEddfQdos0avTuoLTSlr9LSmuXiok8VdLbw4EO5_rbLRjKfaN-Hv_3Tp4T4y2Y0waG9Tavz657rwWTFhalLYlK1WzmjrPJT7qkSKmrnZ2Q0xWyEgX0/s3300/20240119_153206.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1702" data-original-width="3300" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFGFhm9fGa4GDG1reDJBs7kgtxTZw-uXONHLBhAeBGv0QgOuZ-dWk_3V2d2jSzAQ2vwZZq5FXswEddfQdos0avTuoLTSlr9LSmuXiok8VdLbw4EO5_rbLRjKfaN-Hv_3Tp4T4y2Y0waG9Tavz657rwWTFhalLYlK1WzmjrPJT7qkSKmrnZ2Q0xWyEgX0/w400-h208/20240119_153206.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">It comes with a 6.2-liter V8 gas engine as standard but my test vehicle was equipped with the optional inline 6-cylinder diesel that GMC has dubbed “TurboMax.” It is mated to an 10-speed automatic transmission also found on the gas-engine models.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As is typical with diesel engines, horsepower is somewhat modest but torque is off the chart. The inline-6 diesel on the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate is rated at 305 ponies (lowest among the four engine choices in the Sierra lineup) but delivers a top-of-the-chart 495 pound-feet of torque that gives it a max tow rating of 13,200 pounds in 2-wheel drive versions and 13,000 in 4WD models.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VfljGHeDZQczMEzUWDajqm5FAWB3oGJWSTbkWY3HHkJvmcRPPX5i16CbSFJXMEpC3B0-HCMMk2vkUZDALM6eDMHOXFSAIp3YHizAeLfStkixXTB5Y_k-y_CmW9EdLZrEhnU0xNqr86pdS9aJbNyJGH_W5Ub10b6d09aC32igl80qkUC0KMZ_a5XcSEw/s3255/20240119_152320.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1907" data-original-width="3255" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VfljGHeDZQczMEzUWDajqm5FAWB3oGJWSTbkWY3HHkJvmcRPPX5i16CbSFJXMEpC3B0-HCMMk2vkUZDALM6eDMHOXFSAIp3YHizAeLfStkixXTB5Y_k-y_CmW9EdLZrEhnU0xNqr86pdS9aJbNyJGH_W5Ub10b6d09aC32igl80qkUC0KMZ_a5XcSEw/w400-h234/20240119_152320.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The diesel engine bests the gas-engine models by about a mile-per-gallon across the board in fuel economy with the 2024 GMS Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate earning numbers of 24 miles-per-gallon city, 27 highway, and 24 combined.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As the name suggests, the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate incorporates as standard all the best features of the other trims (Pro, SLE, Elevation, SLT, AT4, and AT4X) plus a few extras.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJYGqZM5YgNFl35KmUSn86WMcwqiVMmBuitZIEC78YGpBEnzB4zGWGSdlytyT6YCc2uhxfyOSOb14vnSCZYUr8glz55Xw8UpG30ywdtr0w2IfGMcc9iHrkLcBTT2SwXsjtnoaGkYkcj8HN16y7TARzW5XASlMqsurHOh1ZDQ_XUPa4NK8uYbod4elN_s/s3760/20240119_154556.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1808" data-original-width="3760" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJYGqZM5YgNFl35KmUSn86WMcwqiVMmBuitZIEC78YGpBEnzB4zGWGSdlytyT6YCc2uhxfyOSOb14vnSCZYUr8glz55Xw8UpG30ywdtr0w2IfGMcc9iHrkLcBTT2SwXsjtnoaGkYkcj8HN16y7TARzW5XASlMqsurHOh1ZDQ_XUPa4NK8uYbod4elN_s/w400-h193/20240119_154556.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The latter include 22-inch wheels, a carbon-fiber bed, sunroof, 15-inch head-up display, and a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Super Cruise, GMC’s hands-free driving system (clap, clap, clap), is available only on Denali and Denali Ultimate trims.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHb3m6La1eCrL4GJ7E855B5VP581CnNKPcNah0iAdnwBOWkPK2U2TpM4Psq_eFF2RtuCgNQY2TjIaiC3O87PbRTbt2c_LhaG9JD-oWV1qWpViwgpHchrwQPby6wkx7axrRJYnGLEICO8uFtDa1uvAjL5Zi4Y94sm0gkwUVp2rXLD9R5JyBLoVX9QsenX4/s2388/20240119_154527.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2388" data-original-width="1766" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHb3m6La1eCrL4GJ7E855B5VP581CnNKPcNah0iAdnwBOWkPK2U2TpM4Psq_eFF2RtuCgNQY2TjIaiC3O87PbRTbt2c_LhaG9JD-oWV1qWpViwgpHchrwQPby6wkx7axrRJYnGLEICO8uFtDa1uvAjL5Zi4Y94sm0gkwUVp2rXLD9R5JyBLoVX9QsenX4/w149-h200/20240119_154527.jpeg" width="149" /></a></div>The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate is equipped with the latest in technology from GM starting with a 13.4-inch touchscreen to operate the company’s premium infotainment system. It features built-in Google compatibility, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay also are standard.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Other standard features for the interior include keyless entry and push-button start, premium leather seats, dual-zone climate control, 16-way massage seats for front-riding passengers, heated front and outer rear seats, ventilated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Cargo area lighting, a spray-on bedliner, GMC’s multi-tier tailgate, and front recovery hooks are standard on the exterior.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-1mHVIq18dyUcvpDQgtVI-eFdtVeTvzl2UmYzPGglmnngkZwIWUdW8OQxE04xDSoINCjn9OB7P5hDBNNWtjj9FbSDUjCok0q0ufz6zz2FuhDG9eA5IptqioK5_f5QMPzMP1hP1aemuCLAA7ZsSQ6Y2J3QnqCuM2b_o4IpDhQX2BtU-EE8yETAMEzjTo/s4080/20240119_152416.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1511" data-original-width="4080" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-1mHVIq18dyUcvpDQgtVI-eFdtVeTvzl2UmYzPGglmnngkZwIWUdW8OQxE04xDSoINCjn9OB7P5hDBNNWtjj9FbSDUjCok0q0ufz6zz2FuhDG9eA5IptqioK5_f5QMPzMP1hP1aemuCLAA7ZsSQ6Y2J3QnqCuM2b_o4IpDhQX2BtU-EE8yETAMEzjTo/w200-h75/20240119_152416.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, forward collision alert, front and rear pedestrian warning, front and rear park assist, rear cross-traffic braking, HD Surround Visionow, following distance indicator, blind-spot alert, and lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">All that carries a hefty starting MSRP of $82,500 for the TurboMax version of 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Super Cruise, sterling metallic exterior, and destination and delivery fee ($1,145) ran the final total for my test 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate to $85,540 including a credit of $1,000 for the diesel engine.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNB84iyj68VNjEa7cgt8s7MkbVddjQ7IJUT9f7AzCHQiEvxD6IQ0391PObu8J9Nc9cJxtRigrSZf6S06wTSZGXUcDSkEgTgvw59VjaHOVAdFZmtb4a28UzfiFaZwMwGkmv9zQ_AKSYU2PrVZS0ONieSYGoeE8jHz65Hl7is5v2LiDSvL9dMyNIdCXhuw/s2786/20240119_153433.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2246" data-original-width="2786" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNB84iyj68VNjEa7cgt8s7MkbVddjQ7IJUT9f7AzCHQiEvxD6IQ0391PObu8J9Nc9cJxtRigrSZf6S06wTSZGXUcDSkEgTgvw59VjaHOVAdFZmtb4a28UzfiFaZwMwGkmv9zQ_AKSYU2PrVZS0ONieSYGoeE8jHz65Hl7is5v2LiDSvL9dMyNIdCXhuw/w200-h162/20240119_153433.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate:</b> Lots of versions lets you trim out this pickup in what seems like an infinite number of ways. The cabin is spacious and comfortable with plenty of rear legroom (43.4 inches). Ventilated seats are nice. The retractable running boards and grab handles make getting in and out a snap. Infotainment features are plentiful and user-friendly. The diesel engine provides plenty of torque. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate:</b> The overall size is a big issue in mall parking lots, and it is difficult to see over the massive hood when finally finding a spot to pull into. The ride isn’t the smoothest, but then it is a truck.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate? </b>This is an unfair question since I have never owned nor ever will buy a pickup truck, especially a full-sized model. Just too big for me. The price may make you go back to the Chevy Silverado, which is pretty much the same vehicle, and save a few bucks.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtKpDvW8IdnV5Ulo6V9FZaDtKb-2tb7bJUiS6OydwUavJWg3YASFC2RWhxQLfaVBIYSekAJGNZsYsElFhNiCGRMVk2sksiRTJ74CDKD-HNk-Fb3naL1EVxrsUY4uErtwUeUtoY6YZYXFKFwCyzyvIgJiafFxqPXX8e_Kz3gw4IlmivmcydXbMfqrMd2I/s1528/20240119_153458.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1289" data-original-width="1528" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtKpDvW8IdnV5Ulo6V9FZaDtKb-2tb7bJUiS6OydwUavJWg3YASFC2RWhxQLfaVBIYSekAJGNZsYsElFhNiCGRMVk2sksiRTJ74CDKD-HNk-Fb3naL1EVxrsUY4uErtwUeUtoY6YZYXFKFwCyzyvIgJiafFxqPXX8e_Kz3gw4IlmivmcydXbMfqrMd2I/w640-h542/20240119_153458.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-31922390441101136022024-01-24T13:39:00.000-08:002024-01-24T13:39:00.851-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj06-Fy5TUjjPMyhvx-60Ft7LXZtqO9cZtP3E9OIGOZgBR_vF0vd0HQ0bboADoY_TZypXp42djbKCj_mcKAhR8mfEE1NG5xFHme1SaiRaCK3TBnGmV66tU6Yo1SvfDiG3Yjo-JPa3iYV_3hvHrBshJ3UYnm8AoKLZKjfniHyka0DPJ828sj3HW4WUgVII/s3129/20240114_132720.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1991" data-original-width="3129" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj06-Fy5TUjjPMyhvx-60Ft7LXZtqO9cZtP3E9OIGOZgBR_vF0vd0HQ0bboADoY_TZypXp42djbKCj_mcKAhR8mfEE1NG5xFHme1SaiRaCK3TBnGmV66tU6Yo1SvfDiG3Yjo-JPa3iYV_3hvHrBshJ3UYnm8AoKLZKjfniHyka0DPJ828sj3HW4WUgVII/w400-h256/20240114_132720.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: xx-large;">PACIFICA CARRIES ON CHRYSLER TRADITION IN MINIVAN HISTORY</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Chrysler came up with the concept of the minivan for family transportation — especially those families with three or more children — 40 years ago and I would argue that nobody has come up with anything better since.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha7mgnWIoF6VuMJ6VMh6e1JgcWOFonpdS-vLCvbKGVAgDRq5QykEjmCjjalkfRX_8auENGLuQjptb9kJugH5iZkFYVkIiyzsjXCuUI4I6l9WahnCKKBb3OuxlKY9oi1mzvPcDr61P7SjHo7h82gSKwKX5fc8yFZNMpZXxxwWd4l6rrXoHfUCWo5Huz7F8/s3371/20240114_133600.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="606" data-original-width="3371" height="61" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha7mgnWIoF6VuMJ6VMh6e1JgcWOFonpdS-vLCvbKGVAgDRq5QykEjmCjjalkfRX_8auENGLuQjptb9kJugH5iZkFYVkIiyzsjXCuUI4I6l9WahnCKKBb3OuxlKY9oi1mzvPcDr61P7SjHo7h82gSKwKX5fc8yFZNMpZXxxwWd4l6rrXoHfUCWo5Huz7F8/w320-h61/20240114_133600.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>SUV? Nope. SUVs with three row seating can accommodate seven or eight passengers but even many full-size models lack the rear cargo room to haul all the stuff that come with larger families.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Station wagon? Third-row seating (if even offered) infringes on cargo space.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJyOZrE1BCshWixVvMSkoN0vFA3c7yZT1EsMBBGnBjaAvWYJagmdcHWujPhaeI1v0_oUxm5EkekDUxMQ1cQ_WP3mFolrCYt-9zkM6MFapMclyEVBbaHjJgBHPhKVMsCk9FWclQ_eCg_n35XvuueyupIRDei2RB7ueLNLMz1oXsxJ79pIot_tc0e4LTPzY/s3576/20240114_133150.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1695" data-original-width="3576" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJyOZrE1BCshWixVvMSkoN0vFA3c7yZT1EsMBBGnBjaAvWYJagmdcHWujPhaeI1v0_oUxm5EkekDUxMQ1cQ_WP3mFolrCYt-9zkM6MFapMclyEVBbaHjJgBHPhKVMsCk9FWclQ_eCg_n35XvuueyupIRDei2RB7ueLNLMz1oXsxJ79pIot_tc0e4LTPzY/w400-h191/20240114_133150.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Sedan? You’re kidding, right?</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">No, the often-scorned minivan still rules the road when it comes to a vehicle combining both passenger and cargo space in a practical format, and for that we have to thank Chrysler.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhanxSTuKbFIXDzwuMR363jFy4wRPF0yO-6JW6dFE1gH9rKcQfjOpz8fpbDB1mie5mnjyMMNNDFuBjO6kYMqrHgtV1WucP-oxroeyJkuXNiGcIUOnK2RKoiNvhL-gTFyYhJGdSzxj2_53tSswRxG69lNukqogCX1XLEWGAjSccacIVrXSaVgoXj67Ya5iQ/s3427/20240114_132835.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1720" data-original-width="3427" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhanxSTuKbFIXDzwuMR363jFy4wRPF0yO-6JW6dFE1gH9rKcQfjOpz8fpbDB1mie5mnjyMMNNDFuBjO6kYMqrHgtV1WucP-oxroeyJkuXNiGcIUOnK2RKoiNvhL-gTFyYhJGdSzxj2_53tSswRxG69lNukqogCX1XLEWGAjSccacIVrXSaVgoXj67Ya5iQ/w400-h201/20240114_132835.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The company launched the Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan as 1984 models, and though neither is around today their progeny survives. Dodge survives as a brand but Plymouth left the automotive scene about the same time the 21st Century arrived.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Carrying the torch now for Chrysler now is the Pacifica, which began life as sort of a combination SUV, wagon, and minivan in 2004. Now the Pacifica is unquestionably a minivan with sliding rear doors and three rows of seating. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRrotKmNfqrBqAB1ekZX-IeCu1A5US99ldzDQOQcfzBPr2kzghsTsUFCHmkf4LOfdtoikIRuN73MbZZoLwZUmX0LEzCt4gCHKhA1eQ7HUtMKG0a_xA1kNaJC9FARgg9mwrvbb1cGttiuKDZHntYaZgL4Lvr9rM6_MmtRmDGfsr7a49UnNT6VJIZgLfVg/s3155/20240114_133027.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1909" data-original-width="3155" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRrotKmNfqrBqAB1ekZX-IeCu1A5US99ldzDQOQcfzBPr2kzghsTsUFCHmkf4LOfdtoikIRuN73MbZZoLwZUmX0LEzCt4gCHKhA1eQ7HUtMKG0a_xA1kNaJC9FARgg9mwrvbb1cGttiuKDZHntYaZgL4Lvr9rM6_MmtRmDGfsr7a49UnNT6VJIZgLfVg/w400-h243/20240114_133027.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">In addition to its longstanding status in the minivan segment, the Pacifica also is the first its class to offer a hybrid gas-electric drivetrain and still is the only plug-in minivan on the market.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Toyota Sienna comes as a standard gas-electric hybrid configuration (HEV) but as a plug-in the Chrysler Pacifica PHEV offers the advantage — and safety — of a gas engine to take over when in the battery is down. The Chrysler Pacific Plug-in can go up to 33 miles on electric power only, giving it a rating of 82 MPGe rating. Using the gas engine it earns a rating of 30 miles-per-gallon combined city and highway.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsEWb2pM5J2cAN5AHV8XPZLrZxpYmDgOo3PRCLIOAOk-E-v7iNySUisMw95aFccYoDPMlfSkD0Ca0T1wJLKP15NejN6E3PQpmNvS7yYen732sH52Kesc5zWU_BZZgso0_No4mRTMVsEzsgJ4K7LHm0tOpRXHsMWBtjfwAS06hmmr57JJESp3xyXDGNU8k/s3803/20240116_154648.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1748" data-original-width="3803" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsEWb2pM5J2cAN5AHV8XPZLrZxpYmDgOo3PRCLIOAOk-E-v7iNySUisMw95aFccYoDPMlfSkD0Ca0T1wJLKP15NejN6E3PQpmNvS7yYen732sH52Kesc5zWU_BZZgso0_No4mRTMVsEzsgJ4K7LHm0tOpRXHsMWBtjfwAS06hmmr57JJESp3xyXDGNU8k/w400-h184/20240116_154648.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This review is based on the 2023 Chrysler Pacific plug-in, but no major changes are in line for 2024. Chrysler did some tinkering with the trim lineup, replacing the Touring L and Limited trims with Select and Road Tripper models and Hybrid S and Hybrid S Premium packages added to the line.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Pinnacle still sits at the top and served as my test Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in.</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCp589KVH0fW9kKXRzTQlzCBOcfkS_sq0b3-stltLPej5K_0fTA1ZIlSqfTMva9j1x07Gea79rCFrYNdq0VXavjcyoqGCzhM3QcXOO43NUTTvfi7cMDgbY6dvVkHWB_I-Npz9jkLTZkMNBCEX6Sodsoeqcg0bKHNZ0Ar9b97y-o0Em80kqiP3lqWQ87I/s3054/20240114_133222.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3054" data-original-width="2007" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCp589KVH0fW9kKXRzTQlzCBOcfkS_sq0b3-stltLPej5K_0fTA1ZIlSqfTMva9j1x07Gea79rCFrYNdq0VXavjcyoqGCzhM3QcXOO43NUTTvfi7cMDgbY6dvVkHWB_I-Npz9jkLTZkMNBCEX6Sodsoeqcg0bKHNZ0Ar9b97y-o0Em80kqiP3lqWQ87I/w132-h200/20240114_133222.jpeg" width="132" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">It is wonderfully equipped with such standard features as heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a dual pane panoramic sunroof, built-in Amazaon Fire TV, a Harmon-Kardon premium sound system, an interior camera to keep track of what is going on in the seats behind you, second- and third-row window shades, and a suede headliner.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard exterior features include 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, hands-free sliding rear doors and lift gate, and LED headlights.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Safety features include front and rear parking assist system, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, full-speed frontal collision warning, pedestrian emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPANWk_C1TUl9NzxJQ5fVTSVBtnXFlj4B0tchuggNOcuM0L8fL_mbotH237tDiqC7co5udStge5oPZIJEC3UZApsaXNqhBvkC2Hp4WN6r_YaOlhv03fltzYi86KxqEOOdZ2HmFkHm1FpGbR1NsuczzdJdeU8K-yWbKqo1fm_VdfT_9jn3rA9qVlxOuMA8/s2308/20240116_154720.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1862" data-original-width="2308" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPANWk_C1TUl9NzxJQ5fVTSVBtnXFlj4B0tchuggNOcuM0L8fL_mbotH237tDiqC7co5udStge5oPZIJEC3UZApsaXNqhBvkC2Hp4WN6r_YaOlhv03fltzYi86KxqEOOdZ2HmFkHm1FpGbR1NsuczzdJdeU8K-yWbKqo1fm_VdfT_9jn3rA9qVlxOuMA8/w200-h162/20240116_154720.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>The second-row features easy slide seats but the plug-in doesn’t get the stow-and-go feature so popular on gas-only models that allow the second and third row seats to be stowed under the floor. Nor is the plug-in available with all-wheel drive.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">MSRP for the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Pinnacle starts at $60,345 and my test vehicle topped out at $62,435 when the charge for the , which is close to the fathom blue exterior paint and $1,595 for destination are added in. That’s just short of the starting point of $62,820 for the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPAK5Vd8s_qhFnfSHMEqCJqoGtwekoKcbZ3l5ADyjEronJTTvtf9dCOIu_lG8b-5WvFgWTrNfnesbJ3STqWcvqVY9CFTt5PBj7mhiszWH9VKnHzdY_Gq5k1yImDOMaXtSFSJnokDIHwbU4l1xfMvHlrIdaxkCxX-ZJJ5jSEp3RGleb1-DMWvFGWVKoKeY/s3435/20240114_133301.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2608" data-original-width="3435" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPAK5Vd8s_qhFnfSHMEqCJqoGtwekoKcbZ3l5ADyjEronJTTvtf9dCOIu_lG8b-5WvFgWTrNfnesbJ3STqWcvqVY9CFTt5PBj7mhiszWH9VKnHzdY_Gq5k1yImDOMaXtSFSJnokDIHwbU4l1xfMvHlrIdaxkCxX-ZJJ5jSEp3RGleb1-DMWvFGWVKoKeY/w200-h152/20240114_133301.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>What I liked about the Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in: </b>The interior is spacious with upscale materials throughout. There is good room in the back for all the stuff a family might want to bring for a road trip. All-around visibility is good and the gas-electric drivetrain eliminates the range anxiety that comes with all-electric vehicles. Available all-wheel drive is nice, too. Getting in and out is a snap and the Pinnacle trim has loads of standard features. Front seats are heated and ventilated. The drive itself is quite capable, and it is easy to maneuver in parking lots. The power opening/closing of the side doors </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in:</b> The hybrid drivetrain comes at a steep price. There’s a big jump in staring MSRP from the gas-only version to the hybrid version. Chrysler does not recommend towing with the Pacific Plug-in, and all-wheel drive is not offered.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the Chryslter Pacifica Plug-in? </b>Not at this stage of my life, but for family transportation, it can’t be beat. The Plug-in is expensive but offers a lot. Empty nesters still might want to consider it if the grandkids visit often.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukq7CDVQfC9h6qsOECOPXUJ14hcR3GhCWX_uAB8tb148b9jVix8LkMJWD72TbyX8UXybk9DJ9mb4-JfqCJg_VUiy7qM_ooe_9KNXrCtO9qcAg9PdtsbxdiGJnKhURuCWT5R3eNg4NV3RG1O-DESasLu82ma7b1_FecI3_BA0s2BseI2X85xuI_4Jdckk/s2041/20240114_133653.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1588" data-original-width="2041" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukq7CDVQfC9h6qsOECOPXUJ14hcR3GhCWX_uAB8tb148b9jVix8LkMJWD72TbyX8UXybk9DJ9mb4-JfqCJg_VUiy7qM_ooe_9KNXrCtO9qcAg9PdtsbxdiGJnKhURuCWT5R3eNg4NV3RG1O-DESasLu82ma7b1_FecI3_BA0s2BseI2X85xuI_4Jdckk/w640-h498/20240114_133653.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-2751851751860018942024-01-17T09:34:00.000-08:002024-01-17T09:34:52.555-08:002024 JAGUAR F-TYPE P575 R75 <h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMlUx_C-apCz8D9TpXaF7tfw0X4EbvZSd8y20rzVi5OswiqGIQaiQsWAedldok_KL2V9OX6M1pnnY2nxeJq9DwB_lrxcOTkdMgAe41vVTuJ6Y4DsprOE12YpEYzqgifFiEnip0CPESdRmWtqBNrAEYI7gz67MKcjDtI6N2i1h9B5UtSPEBlSg3UxAfEY/s2659/20240108_144919.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2302" data-original-width="2659" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMlUx_C-apCz8D9TpXaF7tfw0X4EbvZSd8y20rzVi5OswiqGIQaiQsWAedldok_KL2V9OX6M1pnnY2nxeJq9DwB_lrxcOTkdMgAe41vVTuJ6Y4DsprOE12YpEYzqgifFiEnip0CPESdRmWtqBNrAEYI7gz67MKcjDtI6N2i1h9B5UtSPEBlSg3UxAfEY/w400-h348/20240108_144919.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">JAGUAR SENDING F-TYPE OUT IN STYLE AS IT READIES FOR MOVE TO ALL-ELECTRIC FLEET</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Please allow me a little personal note here, but I would like to send a big “thank you” to my press fleet manager at Prestige for sending the Jaguar F-Type Convertible my way for one last go around before Jaguar yanks it out of production.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93JlG_A45wJhQyjAerWhGv8qCiEIRgXvjrvI8c8BB5KH-4GBD0qlvG8rBEfJmnZmEx6CZxn3vMysmWtKHeeaqQlGFojpBvcu6wP_5b7U_isS84aV8GmumHYVgptUU70E7fUzblvy5QA-4jH-4IEAw8PXnXZkCmi-oVpoeUGCVG4bU1IEsRJ4DULgcHcM/s2083/20240108_145202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="883" data-original-width="2083" height="85" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93JlG_A45wJhQyjAerWhGv8qCiEIRgXvjrvI8c8BB5KH-4GBD0qlvG8rBEfJmnZmEx6CZxn3vMysmWtKHeeaqQlGFojpBvcu6wP_5b7U_isS84aV8GmumHYVgptUU70E7fUzblvy5QA-4jH-4IEAw8PXnXZkCmi-oVpoeUGCVG4bU1IEsRJ4DULgcHcM/w200-h85/20240108_145202.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>It has been a favorite of mine since its introduction a decade ago as a so-called “spiritual successor” to the company’s legendary E-Type roadster of the 1960s and early ’70s.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The F-Type debuted as convertible with a coupe version soon to follow. Reviews were generally favorable for the first two-seater from the famed British marque in over 40 years and have remained so.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7GZagJvwWiFhseveeUzInhHen6y2MHNykPTeixWqQbJb9BsTPY-fc2bYFo-ZAWzgmAkKb5RZuGY4ZJE5Cd0w4IKp2JjvL0-emLDOFVUmuqp7JdcyMNrkE2V1y_AKmh22iufhBwjLA0ybtx49Nbtjbjq43DU0fBovY3FI4r-mBJUsHowbScfFxDwF5x4/s3078/20240108_145446.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1314" data-original-width="3078" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7GZagJvwWiFhseveeUzInhHen6y2MHNykPTeixWqQbJb9BsTPY-fc2bYFo-ZAWzgmAkKb5RZuGY4ZJE5Cd0w4IKp2JjvL0-emLDOFVUmuqp7JdcyMNrkE2V1y_AKmh22iufhBwjLA0ybtx49Nbtjbjq43DU0fBovY3FI4r-mBJUsHowbScfFxDwF5x4/w400-h173/20240108_145446.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Oh, the cabin was small (still is) and storage space is at a premium, especially with the convertible and performance was sporty. It didn’t exactly smoke rivals like Porsche and Audi, but it was competitive enough and was fun to drive.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">And it had that distinct Jaguar touch when it came to styling. A common complaint I often hear about today’s luxury models is that it is hard to tell them apart. Not so with the sleek Jaguar profile.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdmdUBrXdIq3BkoIwWMY50c423QYPBgas02vOwiMrmqxlhPPw091GuX5jU1NvqsuR3J5AeWPfbGvL8wr_0O883LUZ_RmEXHmEXI0ejGLb9nvH8I_5pDFghQTejc000siXmg8O9Fmnl-SKIw-jVVXlW__L6MEY11-DvuNLZbO994xKyWuE4NQ32jLhXBA/s3129/20240108_144534.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1707" data-original-width="3129" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdmdUBrXdIq3BkoIwWMY50c423QYPBgas02vOwiMrmqxlhPPw091GuX5jU1NvqsuR3J5AeWPfbGvL8wr_0O883LUZ_RmEXHmEXI0ejGLb9nvH8I_5pDFghQTejc000siXmg8O9Fmnl-SKIw-jVVXlW__L6MEY11-DvuNLZbO994xKyWuE4NQ32jLhXBA/w400-h219/20240108_144534.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Sadly, Jaguar announced some time ago that the 2024 would be the last year for the F-Type as the company prepares to electrify all of its fleet of vehicles by next year with the launch of thee new electric cars.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">If there is to be a bright side to the F-Type’s passing it is that Jaguar will not sully the roadster’s reputation by equipping it with an all-electric or plug-in hybrid drivetrain. (Looking at you, Ford Mustang Mach-E.) </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_UNChAurqpVwmzFF8F8ozDh0ghGnWDm3MSiZGdXXKu8rfn0OSgenUQHZreoCJPY4PVaptZa20V8i80RJiF3WQt3nha1smd1HxW2_xL4WnnB0hBSgytqvMOsJu3JGsZCp7ByOg45ahRnNHyxVBeM-RMKDQkPxBbkoSO7PYkDgyHOuEQpm8R4nnvo0ytg/s2733/20240108_145237.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1742" data-original-width="2733" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_UNChAurqpVwmzFF8F8ozDh0ghGnWDm3MSiZGdXXKu8rfn0OSgenUQHZreoCJPY4PVaptZa20V8i80RJiF3WQt3nha1smd1HxW2_xL4WnnB0hBSgytqvMOsJu3JGsZCp7ByOg45ahRnNHyxVBeM-RMKDQkPxBbkoSO7PYkDgyHOuEQpm8R4nnvo0ytg/w400-h256/20240108_145237.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A throaty, confident exhaust tone from the dual quad exhausts, missing from EVs, is a prominent part of the package.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As noted earlier, Jaguar offers the F-Type in both coupe and convertible form and is marking this final year year with commemorative upgrades in the R75 Edition (a bow to the company’s 75th anniversary) and ZP editions.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshAIMS9hr2aBFD_JraMK5WQDu2GrgoSarEtiQNz-35Sni7sDwoKD_cY11zXxkC5lnhue_z7BsENtx4SW1W9nifT4VAjVN7l64efgxy1f9Q5W48_dkuRobyKPu03t9nMnX2kNfre_QlIK6SkCkvDIiUPEq5v1hk6QJNm6sj63s1QXiOEDfk3Bks1DOsHE/s3465/20240108_145852.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2080" data-original-width="3465" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjshAIMS9hr2aBFD_JraMK5WQDu2GrgoSarEtiQNz-35Sni7sDwoKD_cY11zXxkC5lnhue_z7BsENtx4SW1W9nifT4VAjVN7l64efgxy1f9Q5W48_dkuRobyKPu03t9nMnX2kNfre_QlIK6SkCkvDIiUPEq5v1hk6QJNm6sj63s1QXiOEDfk3Bks1DOsHE/w400-h241/20240108_145852.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This review is based on the 2024 Jaguar F-Type P575 R75 Convertible with all-wheel drive and a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine tuned to 575 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. That’s a big step up from the 444 hp and 428 lb.-ft. from the base V8 standard in the F-Type P540 and fuel mileage doesn’t take that big a hit.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Numbers for the 2024 Jaguar F-Type P575 R75 (AWD) are 16 miles-per-gallon city, 24 highway, and 18 combined. For the P450 (RWD) they are 17/24/19.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFSziPLD_iiWDfGlefiVv50qo68x1yP0ETwufOH1ZgG6lnpkFzRreEnX0V78PJ5zUH70BIWBX8ZKzlLMzKZ14TPJUdQB-fc7b0ylff3rCIBZPuknaPqVzOpCdtRjrJYHXCf-gwT8S2rtiNWmqGfRkWECFyfGTAlQonWB5in7qPlh8V7VBWoQhz1jSiXaQ/s3581/20240108_150618.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1001" data-original-width="3581" height="56" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFSziPLD_iiWDfGlefiVv50qo68x1yP0ETwufOH1ZgG6lnpkFzRreEnX0V78PJ5zUH70BIWBX8ZKzlLMzKZ14TPJUdQB-fc7b0ylff3rCIBZPuknaPqVzOpCdtRjrJYHXCf-gwT8S2rtiNWmqGfRkWECFyfGTAlQonWB5in7qPlh8V7VBWoQhz1jSiXaQ/w200-h56/20240108_150618.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>An 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for manual gear selection is standard throughout the F-Type lineup.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The ride itself is on the firm side as you might expect from a sports roadster. Also as a sports roadster cargo space is minimal, especially on the convertible. You’ll have to pack lightly for overnight road trips and forget Costco runs.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Getting into the 2024 Jaguar F-Type P575 R75 is a bit of a chore, especially the the roof closed, but once inside it is surprisingly roomy for a 2-seater.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0gAuvzqdPb3DBfG2KM9c9NAbOG6Ge_66N0QRkqtd_K94a5ZqOcM9ozyZnyrrt2p4rRnxKaZVaxS6a5HXTqfFDTmO_po2UjaEQSv7t9KZrETpF9UKl-KJaFw4UTo1gRbn0_5lYLRJWTmVTmCIcdmnS7WDE2CNCNooFuI5EpZPQ9nU1hL192kQepYMPCg/s4080/20240109_145631.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2278" data-original-width="4080" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0gAuvzqdPb3DBfG2KM9c9NAbOG6Ge_66N0QRkqtd_K94a5ZqOcM9ozyZnyrrt2p4rRnxKaZVaxS6a5HXTqfFDTmO_po2UjaEQSv7t9KZrETpF9UKl-KJaFw4UTo1gRbn0_5lYLRJWTmVTmCIcdmnS7WDE2CNCNooFuI5EpZPQ9nU1hL192kQepYMPCg/w200-h113/20240109_145631.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Legroom is a generous 42.8 inches and the seats are both heated and cooled and have enough wiggle room that finding a comfortable driving position isn’t all that difficult unless you happen to play center on an NBA team. Cargo space for the convertible is minuscule</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Two-zone climate control is standard and can be adjusted manually via large knobs below the touchscreen. Jaguar was once a laggard when it came to tech features with items like navigation maps on the small side when compared to other luxury makes, but that isn’t the case any more.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eDvF53_Vs8qf-h3FMDKWZcGNRbC4WT1Hr0vzEC1UgjORGIruO2npsp8_xv_C5-aKh3lVodeDECadwavlHakhiVNtWYd930eW2Sf5_T5YDLVhp20iLJyI0OXWFpYOs55Qc8cGVZeaUR7zA79oGAKz7qJI5GCLXLE-WGrwMQAa2EYezzgvwjWRLXxec8Y/s2725/20240108_145915.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2725" data-original-width="1317" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eDvF53_Vs8qf-h3FMDKWZcGNRbC4WT1Hr0vzEC1UgjORGIruO2npsp8_xv_C5-aKh3lVodeDECadwavlHakhiVNtWYd930eW2Sf5_T5YDLVhp20iLJyI0OXWFpYOs55Qc8cGVZeaUR7zA79oGAKz7qJI5GCLXLE-WGrwMQAa2EYezzgvwjWRLXxec8Y/w97-h200/20240108_145915.jpeg" width="97" /></a></div>The nav screen on the 2024 Jaguar F-Type P575 R75 doesn’t match up to the huge size that prevails in luxury models, but at 10-inches is adequate enough. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and connecting my Samsung photo was seamless.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Convertible versions of the F-Type P450 start in the low $80,000 range with the special editions venturing into the $90,000 bracket.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My test 2024 Jaguar F-Type P575 R75, the big boy of the F-Type family, listed a starting price of $115,000 with extras like an extended leather upgrade, Giola green exterior, Windsor leather performance seats, floor mats and destination and delivery charges ran the total to $119,875.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8zqBo4t1s8wiaVzEcdY2deXpUunhvZvvXhBGnviIaAb1fYaRtTEva2gsjrLN5rh5wwItjs6G_FfmssVfkyQnSU9CVOhkMwsyClFDLWFZq4M2wimp8w4bIkasIQOO3fWhBL2MjHQLth3WhB7gwOB4cvWr1qI8Qiw19bMcW0PXrL8kFimUdB34dMP81zq0/s2274/20240108_144812.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2102" data-original-width="2274" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8zqBo4t1s8wiaVzEcdY2deXpUunhvZvvXhBGnviIaAb1fYaRtTEva2gsjrLN5rh5wwItjs6G_FfmssVfkyQnSU9CVOhkMwsyClFDLWFZq4M2wimp8w4bIkasIQOO3fWhBL2MjHQLth3WhB7gwOB4cvWr1qI8Qiw19bMcW0PXrL8kFimUdB34dMP81zq0/w200-h185/20240108_144812.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2024 Jaguar F-Type R75 Convertible: </b>It has a distinctive look and air about it. You don’t be confusing it with any other luxury European exports for sure. Performance is exhilarating. Seats are comfortable and supportive. Tech features are plentiful and not all that complicated. There are large knobs to adjust the temperature and blower on the climate control system and a smaller one for audio volume.</div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Jaguar F-Type R75 Convertible:</b> It’s kind of a chore to get in and out with the top up, and trunk space is laughable. But the main thing I don’t like about the 2024 Jaguar F-Type Convertible is that this is its last year.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 Jaguar F-Type R75 Convertible?</b> Definitely. I’ve just go to find the right lotto ticket.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKmFovgssmgnQrxg75sDEBRMPcFzcqbopoZ7-VuPIFeIae56LVhcYRUcd6TYz_R59DNrOHoYlHSyeDHqPC9UYUOuR_6iZLOyR7AblTjcUKrtG_2KmRw2HOuKTJyEti9c8uZwYbsct9SpAVyj6BtUKMOrV3ubCe_afs9OVGb9YxSiJ1vhEqYNkp9XCxFDs/s3542/20240108_150341.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2810" data-original-width="3542" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKmFovgssmgnQrxg75sDEBRMPcFzcqbopoZ7-VuPIFeIae56LVhcYRUcd6TYz_R59DNrOHoYlHSyeDHqPC9UYUOuR_6iZLOyR7AblTjcUKrtG_2KmRw2HOuKTJyEti9c8uZwYbsct9SpAVyj6BtUKMOrV3ubCe_afs9OVGb9YxSiJ1vhEqYNkp9XCxFDs/w640-h508/20240108_150341.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-25358015787063753862024-01-10T13:16:00.000-08:002024-01-10T13:16:42.274-08:002024 SUBARU IMPREZA RS<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhil2_vbZBCdlsLEFcoafZ1RcyVzTfljrgzeu2wrW2F_aaRL8sxs7MlahHR-yBYRi1kkJJlNjrj5nTdH3jZmi7KKCok5jEteWbN8e4yS4NwCcF8_6rfGRPYAX9izdhzXfEHEF0Fp6qDrIpZZkEjh4XolzVrz9Hwu1Ckn7WjZuu4yUmPdR1vtB0yZx9f9w8/s2914/20231229_165211.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1923" data-original-width="2914" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhil2_vbZBCdlsLEFcoafZ1RcyVzTfljrgzeu2wrW2F_aaRL8sxs7MlahHR-yBYRi1kkJJlNjrj5nTdH3jZmi7KKCok5jEteWbN8e4yS4NwCcF8_6rfGRPYAX9izdhzXfEHEF0Fp6qDrIpZZkEjh4XolzVrz9Hwu1Ckn7WjZuu4yUmPdR1vtB0yZx9f9w8/w400-h265/20231229_165211.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">SUBARU STREAMLINES IMPREZA LINEUP</span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">WHILE ADDING NEW RS MODEL FOR 2024</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Impreza has been a staple in the Subaru fleet for over three decades now and undergoes significant changes as it enters its sixth generation this year.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlhIPZQK2afyMDdROpcwkyU1yiwJapKexKvxpOL6uyxB5D_cGN3RJyx3qAwD9QKuDk8FLQzPDaUro8iHI2IehE4xgq9pHzUmMoLdWgYPEBC4i9b-I2IczulMIwzCC5gEsquQpGqcQcWeZ4AJEZ9ofu34ml9u7gBcB3-dr8-of-iwEgFF5tL2cSU02ea0/s1825/20240102_091949.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="916" data-original-width="1825" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlhIPZQK2afyMDdROpcwkyU1yiwJapKexKvxpOL6uyxB5D_cGN3RJyx3qAwD9QKuDk8FLQzPDaUro8iHI2IehE4xgq9pHzUmMoLdWgYPEBC4i9b-I2IczulMIwzCC5gEsquQpGqcQcWeZ4AJEZ9ofu34ml9u7gBcB3-dr8-of-iwEgFF5tL2cSU02ea0/w200-h101/20240102_091949.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>The 2024 Subaru Impreza no longer is offered in Premium and Limited trim levels as fifth-generation Imprezas were, and the sedan configuration has been discontinued.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Subaru Impreza is sold only has a hatchback and a new RS trim sits at the top of the portfolio and boasts a more powerful engine than found in Base and Sport Imprezas.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToBkaR-bMqhiS37P4I__QjElo4y4KB14TTWgrjJAjvD-7UqlxfSikKmIlrrTRPPx70cLWP9WyAkHA24GwbWfgNd3xKMXmKhe84ezlLQFcc9_zZrHFtRAKl4EwhmpvkIukHmR1VDnhnuxkAE25cIYlwLKl4eb693DiNMGgohofE_Tov4Bj4i6mMaTNAqE/s3455/20231229_165728.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1477" data-original-width="3455" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToBkaR-bMqhiS37P4I__QjElo4y4KB14TTWgrjJAjvD-7UqlxfSikKmIlrrTRPPx70cLWP9WyAkHA24GwbWfgNd3xKMXmKhe84ezlLQFcc9_zZrHFtRAKl4EwhmpvkIukHmR1VDnhnuxkAE25cIYlwLKl4eb693DiNMGgohofE_Tov4Bj4i6mMaTNAqE/w400-h173/20231229_165728.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">No, the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS doesn’t measure up to the performance-oriented WRX STI that bowed out after the 2021 model year, but with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine it boosts horsepower to 182 ponies and torque at 178 pound-feet over the 152/145, respectively, of the 2.0L 4-banger in the Base and Sport trims.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That extra power, while not the overwhelming punch the late WRX STI delivered (310/290), comes at a nominal cost in fuel economy. The 2024 Subaru Impreza RS earns numbers of 26 miles-per-gallon city, 33 highway, and 29 combined) while the smaller engine in Base and Sport Imprezas are rated at 27/34/30, according to the EPA.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpfCWKF7hZwoJ1L2DpqFJWlige7Tk-HIVsfBpiQHwXxn0dSlNzQUo9iZIsjgcytsjOvtN8cKzxI2svajtjXM2nxU3dtT5gLxhWs3tvUv-u6I2rVmwXcdGSRzDLwem4IgF7DzalNzZC2vOG5i4PS2sKM81cGtL0MV3HF4ZSGkdBVlQ6sEN3aS6uuCXpfj0/s3209/20231229_165332.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1537" data-original-width="3209" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpfCWKF7hZwoJ1L2DpqFJWlige7Tk-HIVsfBpiQHwXxn0dSlNzQUo9iZIsjgcytsjOvtN8cKzxI2svajtjXM2nxU3dtT5gLxhWs3tvUv-u6I2rVmwXcdGSRzDLwem4IgF7DzalNzZC2vOG5i4PS2sKM81cGtL0MV3HF4ZSGkdBVlQ6sEN3aS6uuCXpfj0/w400-h191/20231229_165332.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">With the manual discontinued, a CVT (continuously variable transmission) is the only gearbox offered.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The interior of the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS is roomy and comfortable. Narly 43 inches of legroom is available up front and 36.5 inches in the back. Rear cargo room is a generous 20.4 cubic feet with second-row seats in place and more than doubles to 56 cubic feet with the second row seats folded.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEginRZntmzZLgNA3j8NoWOTKjZWf7YwnMFgbMn8ciyyMLWRHJfrVTDRwYgO-OWsNR-SwdX0Y2EA8HciHdi6SKMG9Uc8ytWAbXrgNbUP-SV97EZGO3Ls_v5BKwF8mChVTfcr0rEnM0-a-hQ4VG4bv6khjXGEflB1SeG1FM-lJ97YSZSpX9AP5Bj00R6QSVE/s2893/20240102_141458.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1820" data-original-width="2893" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEginRZntmzZLgNA3j8NoWOTKjZWf7YwnMFgbMn8ciyyMLWRHJfrVTDRwYgO-OWsNR-SwdX0Y2EA8HciHdi6SKMG9Uc8ytWAbXrgNbUP-SV97EZGO3Ls_v5BKwF8mChVTfcr0rEnM0-a-hQ4VG4bv6khjXGEflB1SeG1FM-lJ97YSZSpX9AP5Bj00R6QSVE/w400-h251/20240102_141458.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard features that come on all trims include Subaru’s Eyesight Driver Assist Technology (adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane-departure warning and keeping assist), wired integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Assist, auto stop/start system, dual-zone climate control, and electronic parking brake.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">In addition to those features, the RS also gets features from Sport models that include an 8-speed manual mode with paddle shifters to operate the CVT, push-button start, LED fog lights, Subaru’s Starlink system for infotainment functions, premium cloth upholstery, and 18-inch alloy wheels.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9WADwePmKI-OPW59T02eNkge2cR8oaHQaFw2ZRQawdRpFl8xM0ESKKL3_Ufh7YsMR_xveIt910a1RrIV62L0aSqGArAle5zMIG7hgtRQNC_gy3qlVG8a6Uxk-_k2CK39iCbVVyuJpg4P-TQTk3r_qT23s2DSMqBB3ASzX3EXUnsq49yc-H8iJd7m0W2g/s3582/20240102_091753.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2258" data-original-width="3582" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9WADwePmKI-OPW59T02eNkge2cR8oaHQaFw2ZRQawdRpFl8xM0ESKKL3_Ufh7YsMR_xveIt910a1RrIV62L0aSqGArAle5zMIG7hgtRQNC_gy3qlVG8a6Uxk-_k2CK39iCbVVyuJpg4P-TQTk3r_qT23s2DSMqBB3ASzX3EXUnsq49yc-H8iJd7m0W2g/w400-h253/20240102_091753.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Subaru Impreza RS also adds as standard such features as blind-spot detection with lane-change assist and rear cross-traffic alert, an all-weather package that includes heated front seats, carpeted floor mats, leather-wrapped shift lever and steering wheel, and wireless phone charging.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Starting MSRP for the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS is $28,975 including the $1,090 destination and delivery fee.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopnB5JLpLkAuCGqPuvatKshR1Mo33L5LC3pXJI2113wwBNJShyphenhyphentYBMEXE1Anc-nn_JaksyLj9iGPa0eoMOY7HN_tcEPdiZpABrPawhU7CBMjRcUoWd-lI3LYkDsJL7GP4rh9e7fULFAq8PX5ItHHf2YsQKKxds1NeQdxCcPZ_7D2PJ5YZBH9IoOUPliE/s1645/20240102_092123.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="1645" height="54" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopnB5JLpLkAuCGqPuvatKshR1Mo33L5LC3pXJI2113wwBNJShyphenhyphentYBMEXE1Anc-nn_JaksyLj9iGPa0eoMOY7HN_tcEPdiZpABrPawhU7CBMjRcUoWd-lI3LYkDsJL7GP4rh9e7fULFAq8PX5ItHHf2YsQKKxds1NeQdxCcPZ_7D2PJ5YZBH9IoOUPliE/w200-h54/20240102_092123.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">My test 2024 Subaru Impreza RS featured an option package that included a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with power-adjustable lumbar support, Harmon-Karden premium audio system with 10 speakers, and a power moonroof that ran the final total to $31,045.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Subaru Impreza Base model starts at under $25,000 and the Sport at just over $26,000.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEopmuVg5mZoS0Ups458ZUxZ85D5gtOFY-jcOI09ZfvSxi4fPxUlEMUwdsMKPzQlDZoJKZ9ywnEq15p48YRbZooJtZISNE-qcHM-VMrlg-mAcJ_IDSDQGcRaQDvuJm3hzi3z2BIouoOtsavJvGQmlX0eKZ8SUL619h-KGqIGTuvRZLpB798iUW2-SYZXc/s1835/20240102_091746%202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1835" data-original-width="1031" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEopmuVg5mZoS0Ups458ZUxZ85D5gtOFY-jcOI09ZfvSxi4fPxUlEMUwdsMKPzQlDZoJKZ9ywnEq15p48YRbZooJtZISNE-qcHM-VMrlg-mAcJ_IDSDQGcRaQDvuJm3hzi3z2BIouoOtsavJvGQmlX0eKZ8SUL619h-KGqIGTuvRZLpB798iUW2-SYZXc/w113-h200/20240102_091746%202.jpeg" width="113" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS:</b> The 11.6-inch touchscreen looks imposing at first glance but is user-friendly. Seats are comfortable, and the interior is roomy. Gas mileage is decent. Standard all-wheel is a segment exclusive. Auto Hold when engaged keeps you from creeping forward at intersections when you’re stopped at a light. (Just wish you didn’t have to reset it every time you start up.) The bigger engine in the RS delivers more satisfying performance than other Base and Sport trims.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS: </b>I’m not a big fan of CVTs. Too bad the manual has been discontinued.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsV4f-jM0bxQ5JZy93lk090sYdkySmmnjuygXj1b1xdwAhSmjYmDX7xvwB4jB0E8oP_49LMyxCbwfTSvJC3GoI-MVNFeDCOKxDorIXmAq0ZiFKpu9SoAf5qOARGh-lRrxG2fjYCr2etwhCx_KRYd0FlKw_0Vdd0ROZRNHp5j4zlIq21n_RuoFxuoPVyqw/s2786/20240102_092055.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="971" data-original-width="2786" height="71" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsV4f-jM0bxQ5JZy93lk090sYdkySmmnjuygXj1b1xdwAhSmjYmDX7xvwB4jB0E8oP_49LMyxCbwfTSvJC3GoI-MVNFeDCOKxDorIXmAq0ZiFKpu9SoAf5qOARGh-lRrxG2fjYCr2etwhCx_KRYd0FlKw_0Vdd0ROZRNHp5j4zlIq21n_RuoFxuoPVyqw/w200-h71/20240102_092055.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Would I buy the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS? </b> I’m not a big fan of hatchbacks either (may as well stretch your horizons and go for the similarly priced Subaru Crosstrek), but the Impreza deserves a test drive if you’re shopping in the segment. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ea94FJLx_962tu8HowA2n-5CUJburnqZx_siLzKXkSuIEtjjIQI-SUD3WQLppDChO0VHTH8z2PyO19zaAgqAgSdI98V0NLD-ykcz_CeaHjOxmFxq3lxqA6FTwKICHCtt5r181Nl4Oy1-MACCQFxGJTleVsnTYGaHds9KP2_Nuyt9dXYC0R1vjdmER98/s2649/20231229_165539.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2166" data-original-width="2649" height="524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ea94FJLx_962tu8HowA2n-5CUJburnqZx_siLzKXkSuIEtjjIQI-SUD3WQLppDChO0VHTH8z2PyO19zaAgqAgSdI98V0NLD-ykcz_CeaHjOxmFxq3lxqA6FTwKICHCtt5r181Nl4Oy1-MACCQFxGJTleVsnTYGaHds9KP2_Nuyt9dXYC0R1vjdmER98/w640-h524/20231229_165539.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-44372223588633953682024-01-03T13:40:00.000-08:002024-01-03T13:40:54.509-08:002024 BMW X6 M60i<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCEcUUVsKXzcapSi7RDrXdRE53h-R_YeUmoohk1tTgL_MVzAR5b7BIXnbYNM5bnu51q8c7Pr-Ak17WtSMKsDB706DVBw2jj9cvOdacjqUhpGrB05hCV8WM4EAQM_D-pWNJ7seKPGbN-uYK4akrQIpOz6CDE10-zDarzVq1bvvnkU_arqIku8Iyj_By-Vk/s2216/20231226_104216.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1179" data-original-width="2216" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCEcUUVsKXzcapSi7RDrXdRE53h-R_YeUmoohk1tTgL_MVzAR5b7BIXnbYNM5bnu51q8c7Pr-Ak17WtSMKsDB706DVBw2jj9cvOdacjqUhpGrB05hCV8WM4EAQM_D-pWNJ7seKPGbN-uYK4akrQIpOz6CDE10-zDarzVq1bvvnkU_arqIku8Iyj_By-Vk/w400-h214/20231226_104216.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">BMW CHALLENGES POPULAR CONCEPT </span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">OF WHAT MAKES UP A COUPE</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">If your idea a a coupe is a two-door vehicle slightly smaller than a sedan and somewhat limited passenger and cargo capacity, BMW has a message for you.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNoSbdTn5NaoEXUHnBLBY7Uvdj0neKqWvpJaZYrhvc8kG3RM6o8PBVA9VmGo8hlNM_xhEnAT0uaEQ433KgGZydpp1oJ8wzSHEsHsr6O6NopIWh2kgeHFB9ixE3GUP73jUsxfIefEW8otg2HUbO0RjEMXT7Cr_Pm2_B7Q3KfQybCoT2IRZHAdW69CspzGw/s888/20231226_101741.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="888" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNoSbdTn5NaoEXUHnBLBY7Uvdj0neKqWvpJaZYrhvc8kG3RM6o8PBVA9VmGo8hlNM_xhEnAT0uaEQ433KgGZydpp1oJ8wzSHEsHsr6O6NopIWh2kgeHFB9ixE3GUP73jUsxfIefEW8otg2HUbO0RjEMXT7Cr_Pm2_B7Q3KfQybCoT2IRZHAdW69CspzGw/w200-h187/20231226_101741.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>The German automaker refers to its 2024 X6, which you and I no doubt would call an SUV, as a “Sports Activity Coupe” or SAC. The 2024 X5, which also seats five passengers and has four doors like the X6, it calls a “Sports Activity Vehicle” or SAV.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Somehow, I don’t think that’s going to catch on, but I’ve been wrong before. (In college I once earned praise and a good grade from my professor for questioning the future of cable TV because there already were three free over-the-air commercial networks. And how did that turn out?)</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMqOAbrnHAgPHPiGB5BiBaqZjrmDw5Z8jxFiJkSxPkQBLwBqZvqHGfegIm9gof9HqJ2ZGv9-VfgkiAhphsX2RhNIDHJLtXr6gtPWqgnD8Dw5xfmDx1RzaO67D0b8uf5bLpy1P_YRryngmkcoXD3tXhLRPXnvwaeMDbBwQdj_mKrb2LLwpJyhbB2uXEwQ/s2833/20231226_103341.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1283" data-original-width="2833" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMqOAbrnHAgPHPiGB5BiBaqZjrmDw5Z8jxFiJkSxPkQBLwBqZvqHGfegIm9gof9HqJ2ZGv9-VfgkiAhphsX2RhNIDHJLtXr6gtPWqgnD8Dw5xfmDx1RzaO67D0b8uf5bLpy1P_YRryngmkcoXD3tXhLRPXnvwaeMDbBwQdj_mKrb2LLwpJyhbB2uXEwQ/w400-h184/20231226_103341.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 BMW X6 and the X5 are both built on the same platform and share some common features, but there are differences that justify the difference in classification as SAC and SAV.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The most apparent is that the 2024 BMW X6 has a sloping roofline that gives it a sleeker profile but intrudes on passenger headroom and rear cargo space while the 2024 BMS X5 has a boxier shape and offers three-row seating and more room in the back for storage.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmYhnSTDtdrBirrhxcE2pmXUpp8zgyVLUthMZeRVE96JiJD4HIU8gDJfSYHjvmx6tMNIwTq2XjJBT97mtFyH2rgFnlI8glzMQM7R3ZlkshcdVFeG5QE79c6_CmyoDBrCXBdj1E0XWRMt-lsyoiv2h0eWC_ihSjl_S2w0q5axxGRNKsofeBZk0IKzK4Aw/s2756/20231226_104427.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1347" data-original-width="2756" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmYhnSTDtdrBirrhxcE2pmXUpp8zgyVLUthMZeRVE96JiJD4HIU8gDJfSYHjvmx6tMNIwTq2XjJBT97mtFyH2rgFnlI8glzMQM7R3ZlkshcdVFeG5QE79c6_CmyoDBrCXBdj1E0XWRMt-lsyoiv2h0eWC_ihSjl_S2w0q5axxGRNKsofeBZk0IKzK4Aw/w400-h195/20231226_104427.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">You could argue, I guess, that the X5 is more about substance and the X6 about style, though there is overlapping for both. The X5 looks good, and even with the second-row seats in place, the 2024 BMW X6 still functions as a typical SUV with considerably more hauling capacity than a full-size sedan.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Folding those seats increases capacity from 27.4 cubic feet to 59.6 cubic feet, still less than the X5 (33.9 and 72.3 cubic feet) but adequate for routine tasks..</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMlOoTB4YSe19HC19r9KIjj_mtnvGuNMwMRwIdjjwdeGa6P288NNsHwaATWA9Ddo4sKsNUN4gVN-nnd5YftGxoG1clG14b2y27iZDOc9sTb-RBexm-b_VyBDAGg4SxgLlyVwM8HwYVwSVQgc3KWrlKDeRAbhJjQ9huWO-5IC8eTuZkH4H51EShd3q6HGU/s3900/20231226_103200.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2550" data-original-width="3900" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMlOoTB4YSe19HC19r9KIjj_mtnvGuNMwMRwIdjjwdeGa6P288NNsHwaATWA9Ddo4sKsNUN4gVN-nnd5YftGxoG1clG14b2y27iZDOc9sTb-RBexm-b_VyBDAGg4SxgLlyVwM8HwYVwSVQgc3KWrlKDeRAbhJjQ9huWO-5IC8eTuZkH4H51EShd3q6HGU/w400-h261/20231226_103200.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 BMW X6 comes in two trim levels with M-related upgrades that start under the hood. The base 2024 BMW X6 M40i has the same turbocharged, inline 6-cylinder engine (375 horsepower, 398 pound-feet of torque) that serves X5 models. The 2024 BMW X6 M60i, which this review is based on, ups those numbers to 523/553, respectively, with is turbo V8.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The difference is seen in performance. The inline-6 gives the 2024 BMW X6 M40i a zero-to-60 time of 5.2 seconds compared to 4.2 seconds for the BMW X6 M60i, according to the company.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirn6GGsEArl6w1Cb6cR8s7lXXutSc4dUobWvVA4s0NeKLE2KJoDuny8w5A80EU9mw1o4EwuIXQwzbTAD1uOAntWlcZRXOF1rTq381ePPZZt7RdB1TdPml0mXX19yC3Igc17PdGT-qhsyScSiJkEfi9qRARwGosizq8LRLH4zLNe10yhVWWb1k-iAQnaGM/s3769/20231226_101507.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1967" data-original-width="3769" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirn6GGsEArl6w1Cb6cR8s7lXXutSc4dUobWvVA4s0NeKLE2KJoDuny8w5A80EU9mw1o4EwuIXQwzbTAD1uOAntWlcZRXOF1rTq381ePPZZt7RdB1TdPml0mXX19yC3Igc17PdGT-qhsyScSiJkEfi9qRARwGosizq8LRLH4zLNe10yhVWWb1k-iAQnaGM/w400-h209/20231226_101507.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that automatically shifts to the lowest gear when the left paddle shifter on the steering wheel is pulled for one second.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">All-wheel drive is standard on both trims as are 20-inch wheels. Larger wheels (21-inch and 22-inch) are optional. EPA fuel mileage figures for the 2024 BMW X6 M60i are 17 miles-per-gallon city, 22 highway, and 19 combined using premium fuel, of course.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmc4unXoqjlg9Z4jeULbvYKAqT5GVrgxSfKJmV5Unf1nAOGBM3B6hU7NPX9ucddROCGxB9VVNZ_vz27O0yce3XfOoOuevCSZIEFteYhzAvEOv3bf6tjD54tvXDuHbaImgxkCKJYzKT_D4tTJw3hmrmDLmjfXPQnV7zrEZcd4iUxRe3QrY0Cq4chTpsp9A/s2139/20231226_101456.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1255" data-original-width="2139" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmc4unXoqjlg9Z4jeULbvYKAqT5GVrgxSfKJmV5Unf1nAOGBM3B6hU7NPX9ucddROCGxB9VVNZ_vz27O0yce3XfOoOuevCSZIEFteYhzAvEOv3bf6tjD54tvXDuHbaImgxkCKJYzKT_D4tTJw3hmrmDLmjfXPQnV7zrEZcd4iUxRe3QrY0Cq4chTpsp9A/w200-h118/20231226_101456.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>The interior of the 2024 BMW X6 M60i features premium touches throughout with large displays (12.3 and 14.9 inches) for driver information and infotainment functions dominating the front dash.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Tech features can be operated via touching the larger screen, using the dial on the console to make your selection, or by gesture or voice control if you have gone for those options. Yes, of course, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are among standard tech features.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />New for 2024 is a Highway Assistant that is part of an optional Driving Assistance Professional Package and allows the driver the luxury of hands-free driving on limited access highways at speeds up to 85 miles-per-hour.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQEJ724t639eCgTs4rTC_JvcTadpgUJ2fh7BwjIeKIzFNi65Vj4_8NpXRin7lk_uJ9yYgY8FcVUHkwJPJyfu5Zd14HWPgq12hka5BIr8zgepr1prxyaLwVUl2kacfZ9M2k_TLVHVA11A0cB-bpBUYM-IOPDt38gsUag6XX9TCsmxjL9s_YYy0WW8OlhA/s2295/20231226_103115.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="488" data-original-width="2295" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQEJ724t639eCgTs4rTC_JvcTadpgUJ2fh7BwjIeKIzFNi65Vj4_8NpXRin7lk_uJ9yYgY8FcVUHkwJPJyfu5Zd14HWPgq12hka5BIr8zgepr1prxyaLwVUl2kacfZ9M2k_TLVHVA11A0cB-bpBUYM-IOPDt38gsUag6XX9TCsmxjL9s_YYy0WW8OlhA/s320/20231226_103115.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Frankly, I think such a system infringes a bit on BMW’s proclamation of offering buyers the “ultimate driving machine.” Are you really driving without your hands on the wheel? </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That package tacks on $2,100 to what is already a hefty starting MSRP of $93,600 for the 2024 BMW X6 M60i. The X6 M40i starts at $72,500, </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">In addition to a destination and handling charge of $995, my test 2024 BMW X6 M60i had several optional features than jumped the total up to $111,995. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbndAwmr7Ucu4sHNnqJ0L02V9deEPJZDNQFUbZ6Pe_X5szY_D_tSmo68uqyR0SZ6mN1lWyc0D9uA_4_MfN09wxEwJ0U_LY5pAahMbWHfUNtKq37m_5nhCiF8gBF6tXrB1dGrcxuU65rQ0Dp54AH1uxW3KQ0bbfbypADRxT-O71Vk7ltgJQ_fCei6X33sU/s3415/20231226_102038.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="3415" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbndAwmr7Ucu4sHNnqJ0L02V9deEPJZDNQFUbZ6Pe_X5szY_D_tSmo68uqyR0SZ6mN1lWyc0D9uA_4_MfN09wxEwJ0U_LY5pAahMbWHfUNtKq37m_5nhCiF8gBF6tXrB1dGrcxuU65rQ0Dp54AH1uxW3KQ0bbfbypADRxT-O71Vk7ltgJQ_fCei6X33sU/w200-h121/20231226_102038.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>They included the Driver Assistant Package mentioned earlier, a Dynamic Handling Package (Active M Suspension Pro and Active Roll Suspension), an M Sport Professional Package (design features inside and out), an Executive Package (gesture control), a Climate Comfort Package (4-zone climate control, heated seats, heated front arm rests), 22-inch wheels, Bowes and Wilkins Premium Sound), and a leather dash board and carbon fiber trim.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I liked about the 2024 BMW X6 M60i:</b> Performance is breathtaking, and the high-quality interior and sexy exterior oozes class. BMW has loaded up the X6 with all kinds of technology though there is a drawback to that (see below). Both the instrument and infotainment screens are large and provide a clear view. All-wheel drive is standard. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimq-NnZe6XrixLjmMMI5x1H2Qehj3FxfiAi6x72dtmRTHw7sINlVMFp7DLt_M2reRLrjNihxjrdA9dg06CNOuMzhqu8R5iuZePsyUSLL6TuKcIMucdajNuIR38NDhWaV0h6uGXH6KD0QI1wAjMeOWaVavwKJq0r38ahnyMtUS9OziGr0W2zLNKXz9dfDc/s2523/20231226_101526.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2523" data-original-width="1659" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimq-NnZe6XrixLjmMMI5x1H2Qehj3FxfiAi6x72dtmRTHw7sINlVMFp7DLt_M2reRLrjNihxjrdA9dg06CNOuMzhqu8R5iuZePsyUSLL6TuKcIMucdajNuIR38NDhWaV0h6uGXH6KD0QI1wAjMeOWaVavwKJq0r38ahnyMtUS9OziGr0W2zLNKXz9dfDc/w132-h200/20231226_101526.jpeg" width="132" /></a></div>What I didn’t like about the 2024 BMW X6 M60i: </b>Tech can be overwhelming as the operation of the infotainment systems has a steep learning curve. The cool profile from the sloping roofline comes at a cost of headroom for second-row passengers and room for larger cargo items. There’s a hefty price jump from the base M40i trim to the more powerful M60i, and options quickly boost the final total to six-figures.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 BMW X6 M60i?</b> Too much for my taste, not to mention my budget. You must be really hungry for more power to put down the kind of money the M60i package costs over the M40i.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubjw-4t85Hb-UTxyOPMJ1yDPQDwwx75w89YazFl08ooNAlxZCLIwTJUKE8g-mG1zBGxUBZDbpE6N0fAtauYz2iwyYU9mxlguMKALuVOMGiglSE8lLcJcNMGLqQ64C9J53weAfLgRbwl_sKvsqi-ddeoGAhOI1tyyeLfj8pfwJquZ-6hNUpgNqTYFznRM/s1835/20231226_103752.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1734" data-original-width="1835" height="604" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubjw-4t85Hb-UTxyOPMJ1yDPQDwwx75w89YazFl08ooNAlxZCLIwTJUKE8g-mG1zBGxUBZDbpE6N0fAtauYz2iwyYU9mxlguMKALuVOMGiglSE8lLcJcNMGLqQ64C9J53weAfLgRbwl_sKvsqi-ddeoGAhOI1tyyeLfj8pfwJquZ-6hNUpgNqTYFznRM/w640-h604/20231226_103752.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-14958990898999909882023-12-27T08:01:00.000-08:002023-12-27T08:01:20.300-08:002024 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbyrvL_wJmfVOYguY0gBClzFPx8zZEN1wo_3lR4p1tDRNoK880-hJbSzp0UR4KA7rrArSLxOy_R_yW0XAxiZ_cMhTvoJs9Nt8lGxNZeJaCRhcxV8PgzhdIMEojfxOD2Du_y3N-oHNuEuxpvwx7tCUwKBdRJ5y-__TJGH-N94AOFv7petdAQ90Q8RNzEpI/s2381/20231218_160007.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1906" data-original-width="2381" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbyrvL_wJmfVOYguY0gBClzFPx8zZEN1wo_3lR4p1tDRNoK880-hJbSzp0UR4KA7rrArSLxOy_R_yW0XAxiZ_cMhTvoJs9Nt8lGxNZeJaCRhcxV8PgzhdIMEojfxOD2Du_y3N-oHNuEuxpvwx7tCUwKBdRJ5y-__TJGH-N94AOFv7petdAQ90Q8RNzEpI/w400-h320/20231218_160007.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">MITSUBISHI ADDS PLATINUM TRIM<br />TO PLUG-IN OUTLANDER LINEUP</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Introduced as a plug-in for the 2018 model year, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV moved into its second generation for 2023 and the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV grows a bit with a new upper level trim added. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6saeJ0EXLjpSVAh7tkL67GPEA6fPVpzVmBSqvB5bzyhw-G_behPOrh5Iga8jJZVLgTYP1xj0XdqFey2nXZ9gcnhYMl6nAKomX49SAzsY5UCShEtRQRsMIh9D468V5ag7ZNmaqnSsDTkYHvWFIA53rug8tJWEoCBqVsMXc_xdJPNS3kIwvGWSX0LtyKs/s1584/20231218_163227.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1131" data-original-width="1584" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6saeJ0EXLjpSVAh7tkL67GPEA6fPVpzVmBSqvB5bzyhw-G_behPOrh5Iga8jJZVLgTYP1xj0XdqFey2nXZ9gcnhYMl6nAKomX49SAzsY5UCShEtRQRsMIh9D468V5ag7ZNmaqnSsDTkYHvWFIA53rug8tJWEoCBqVsMXc_xdJPNS3kIwvGWSX0LtyKs/w200-h143/20231218_163227.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>The Platinum edition joins ES, SE, and SEL Outlander PHEV models in the Japanese automaker’s lineup with SEs and SELs also available with special equipment packages to further expand the choices for this award winning vehicle. (Green Car Journal has named the Outlander PHEV its “Green Car of the Year” for the last two years.)</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This review, however, is based on 2024 Mitsubishi PHEV SEL model with the Premium package and offers a wide variety of equipment at a slightly lower price than the Platinum.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1vSgtu8KqmuWtHIWZVW5KUiIFwsfS72JfHblTtYPEsgqTNnNt0P7G8XuthL5ll-OmWonPrB7weiyPBaZFQiQuNls4N7rLzOZlANkUBtnY3saaNTF6cN2UHVIK-yxV7FszG8-6nSk6mjQSlI696ePkoGIhFLVQYdxUldSEwx114pISJhFlvgemeaTmDgQ/s3590/20231218_160458.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2034" data-original-width="3590" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1vSgtu8KqmuWtHIWZVW5KUiIFwsfS72JfHblTtYPEsgqTNnNt0P7G8XuthL5ll-OmWonPrB7weiyPBaZFQiQuNls4N7rLzOZlANkUBtnY3saaNTF6cN2UHVIK-yxV7FszG8-6nSk6mjQSlI696ePkoGIhFLVQYdxUldSEwx114pISJhFlvgemeaTmDgQ/w400-h226/20231218_160458.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV shares a platform with the popular Nissan Rogue, but little else under an agreement with Nissan but little else.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Rogue features a 1.4-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet while the Outlander PHEV pairs a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder gas engine with two electric motors (one to work the front wheels, the other the rear). Combined, they put out 248 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPT_0HWJ4cTlVZkkpcFOQaEGaaLKnCcB6eauEOfRkrSWigCT1aWOdWpPb_wmWAh6xqsbsSweOjweM1Nk4IFbF66pfecEHLUKu9kzD25_ml9C6WYglrkbVt4kxJXv51uXJJKBT8mzOqbCOtXd-VOMmchwtmqFySOSReP1mEXpGqo3XElTbO6B_dBm6Ab8/s2659/20231218_160126.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1519" data-original-width="2659" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPT_0HWJ4cTlVZkkpcFOQaEGaaLKnCcB6eauEOfRkrSWigCT1aWOdWpPb_wmWAh6xqsbsSweOjweM1Nk4IFbF66pfecEHLUKu9kzD25_ml9C6WYglrkbVt4kxJXv51uXJJKBT8mzOqbCOtXd-VOMmchwtmqFySOSReP1mEXpGqo3XElTbO6B_dBm6Ab8/w400-h229/20231218_160126.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">All-wheel drive is standard on the Outlander PHEV, optional on the Rogue. One thing in common is a continuously variable transmission (CVT).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander SEL comes with a long list of standard features in an attractive package that gives off the aura of premium-class vehicles.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI8tOpLw_aNDQGQtivCTyf22fzPZ46lpYc78FLM2B8O5gt1Jaa5uyO8KMd_JfDLYZ2iksX-6tWihMBDYFhzfvEU-YQkLnZ-P4-Ggemx15LTF0upIcvTkxw6IEeeQd7ApSSKPp9Dv7eE4T4PZEwR6s0BCa9-Jy-V-cttqCkdhmEEg18dG0EiOikxuZ5RPk/s2655/20231218_160340.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2109" data-original-width="2655" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI8tOpLw_aNDQGQtivCTyf22fzPZ46lpYc78FLM2B8O5gt1Jaa5uyO8KMd_JfDLYZ2iksX-6tWihMBDYFhzfvEU-YQkLnZ-P4-Ggemx15LTF0upIcvTkxw6IEeeQd7ApSSKPp9Dv7eE4T4PZEwR6s0BCa9-Jy-V-cttqCkdhmEEg18dG0EiOikxuZ5RPk/w400-h318/20231218_160340.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The roomy interior has a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob as well as leather-seating surfaces, and front seats are heated. Also standard are a 12.3-inch driver display and 9-inch touchscreen for infotainment systems that include navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smart-phone charging, and tri-zone climate control.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard exterior features start with LED headlights, taillights, fog lights, and day-time running lights and also include rain-sensing wipers and a power lift gate.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9-ejFmgUN-_oaNFrsGmRC46xe-u0ZH89Jq4B5bd4bUwXdcmsjB08wfzNH_r89Uoq5BQoWZHPKHKFE_v_qmF-KMS-Q7_cztXObgCoh4Skx8diR_gqKMVdxms0mgqx8seFtdY2iTSmyMj2uF6qxietv_DHfGu7xlZTyszIllAhdofD-YZAOVTFvO2xgaI/s3768/20231218_163108.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1914" data-original-width="3768" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9-ejFmgUN-_oaNFrsGmRC46xe-u0ZH89Jq4B5bd4bUwXdcmsjB08wfzNH_r89Uoq5BQoWZHPKHKFE_v_qmF-KMS-Q7_cztXObgCoh4Skx8diR_gqKMVdxms0mgqx8seFtdY2iTSmyMj2uF6qxietv_DHfGu7xlZTyszIllAhdofD-YZAOVTFvO2xgaI/w400-h204/20231218_163108.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard safety features on the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV include forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning with lane-change assist, and a driver alert assist.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A body-color spoiler and 20-inch two-tone alloy wheels also are standard on the SEL trim. The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV also gives you near “one-pedal” driving experience of a full-fledged EV. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrsRZjCXj_5z0ha6V9acCeOtx4j3ECRhcH7oyiqFBnD9vl-Y8SBU55ERAUpspJ1Rxbw8LQJSEDF6srwG6mP19o3WrRlg4sna5ArfqiGOHk3__QWHcvyZLN123vYYDn2tZi5oRs823RMWruO_EokozyqC0XUCBXpVzAgT2sp0gAp9i7kFwUO0Hh5SEWSw0/s2285/20231218_163618.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1185" data-original-width="2285" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrsRZjCXj_5z0ha6V9acCeOtx4j3ECRhcH7oyiqFBnD9vl-Y8SBU55ERAUpspJ1Rxbw8LQJSEDF6srwG6mP19o3WrRlg4sna5ArfqiGOHk3__QWHcvyZLN123vYYDn2tZi5oRs823RMWruO_EokozyqC0XUCBXpVzAgT2sp0gAp9i7kFwUO0Hh5SEWSw0/w200-h104/20231218_163618.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Starting MSRP for the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is listed as $46,295. That covered Mitsubishi Connect subscriptions and Mitsubishi Motors Confidence (10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, 5-year roadside assistance, 3-year limited maintenance) on my test vehicle, but other options tacked on another $4,095.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Those options included the SEL Premium Package (panoramic sunroof, synthetic leather door inserts, upgraded semi-Aniline leather seating surfaces, Bose Premium sound, and a head-up display), the red dianond color exterior paint with black roof, and a tonneau cover.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Including the $1,145 destination charge the final total for the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV came to $51,835.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SOS88LMuYvmeSl1rfVPneLnU0jAaU4YbxQmAv2955IGittEMszK_CvzzK8zkJRh37uUgIit576W_swxcqYGqFBZtzschRCRqZ_ThQx8IaslUrocBfN4xcnhzr28GgRn7_cyVShVR6dgwMjLgBpaDhyPH7XmBmjTKgEsL2K1PbgEWxmPhJaUVpfURhvs/s2546/20231218_163031.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2546" data-original-width="1456" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7SOS88LMuYvmeSl1rfVPneLnU0jAaU4YbxQmAv2955IGittEMszK_CvzzK8zkJRh37uUgIit576W_swxcqYGqFBZtzschRCRqZ_ThQx8IaslUrocBfN4xcnhzr28GgRn7_cyVShVR6dgwMjLgBpaDhyPH7XmBmjTKgEsL2K1PbgEWxmPhJaUVpfURhvs/w114-h200/20231218_163031.jpeg" width="114" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL: </b>The interior has a premium feel about it with leather seats and soft leather surfaces throughout and is packed with lots of user-friendly tech features. The extra power from the hybrid drivetrain enhances throttle response despite the CVT. Handling also is excellent. Lots of safety features are included as standard.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL:</b> Third-row seats are pretty useless. Legroom (and headroom) at the far back is compromised by the location for the battery pack. Fortunately, the seats do fold flat to open up more cargo room (over 30 cubic feet behind the second row). I would prefer a 10- or 8-speed automatic transmission over the CVT, but performance doesn’t seem to suffer much as older CVT versions.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SEL?</b> Yes. It’s an ideal size for someone wanting to move up from a sedan. If you don’t need the third row, you can simply keep it folded into the floor and not even realize it’s there. Plus the plug-in configuration relieves range anxiety concerns that typically come with full-on electric vehicles.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6y2wv0_CLNToMI87oUhzUkHHniaLilXuzZKCyldEQQAuEk1cypne05ou8PBr6lpiOqiXWU1TRFDAmU3SucyuwzFCxW0YxxLTP6E4ZRQVH7H62UxgILhVUrmtkRRxwmcWgJgrXFP09hJzRN4gHLEIAcoVowq3An-mkjwgdy-Gaas8RxUXyhAxC6H6VcqM/s2809/20231218_161007%202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2196" data-original-width="2809" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6y2wv0_CLNToMI87oUhzUkHHniaLilXuzZKCyldEQQAuEk1cypne05ou8PBr6lpiOqiXWU1TRFDAmU3SucyuwzFCxW0YxxLTP6E4ZRQVH7H62UxgILhVUrmtkRRxwmcWgJgrXFP09hJzRN4gHLEIAcoVowq3An-mkjwgdy-Gaas8RxUXyhAxC6H6VcqM/w640-h502/20231218_161007%202.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-38184971732030087222023-12-22T09:25:00.000-08:002023-12-22T09:25:48.429-08:002024 CADILLAC CT4-V<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4aA0aLcCaVuK5BTPA8iKxisbCkh8XMGPoOq6DSn3IUDyIU43pg8Czj5LAwULQlSNCHVTAOm7hMSsXP1Naj2u1PQAqqMR9Cp1cLvlcQdBR4FxkFDPiGPz_ug939hTwUBeFXEBWBa6Uxpq0BNk7gU4v0shOc4yYMRsZSAQc-f5XpzgBnyzk9_-4icPcbc/s2885/3853897127057917015.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1908" data-original-width="2885" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4aA0aLcCaVuK5BTPA8iKxisbCkh8XMGPoOq6DSn3IUDyIU43pg8Czj5LAwULQlSNCHVTAOm7hMSsXP1Naj2u1PQAqqMR9Cp1cLvlcQdBR4FxkFDPiGPz_ug939hTwUBeFXEBWBa6Uxpq0BNk7gU4v0shOc4yYMRsZSAQc-f5XpzgBnyzk9_-4icPcbc/w400-h266/3853897127057917015.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">YOU DON’T HAVE TO GIVE UP FUN TO SHOP </span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">IN THE LUXURY ENTRY LEVEL SEGMENT</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Debuting as a 2020 model, the CT4 sedan serves as an entry level vehicle to Cadillac’s luxury fleet, a role formerly played by the ATS sedan from 2012 through 2019.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LRijZ1NehRibuYC57lVyUIh9TMryh5bY4jd7bh6VeOCKPJqtTXs0WHbZtKz2jaDwrqmPfiWrBzYZx-rrroUcKXTIt_JnmNcMdJl6XoY6liu9W5DHG6SbqIVNd3Z31a30Se3X2ZprDmw3mGpBtQkzB9F6XpHy84EzHVRtkK_I6DkkGu5gubJlPEBfX_0/s1819/2181974947459892425.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="995" data-original-width="1819" height="109" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LRijZ1NehRibuYC57lVyUIh9TMryh5bY4jd7bh6VeOCKPJqtTXs0WHbZtKz2jaDwrqmPfiWrBzYZx-rrroUcKXTIt_JnmNcMdJl6XoY6liu9W5DHG6SbqIVNd3Z31a30Se3X2ZprDmw3mGpBtQkzB9F6XpHy84EzHVRtkK_I6DkkGu5gubJlPEBfX_0/w200-h109/2181974947459892425.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>But don’t make the mistake of conflating “entry level” with “humdrum driving experience.”</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Even the base trims — Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport — have received praise for their athletic performance, but to expand its limits, Cadillac also offers a V-Series version that takes horspower and torque to further heights.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCjNIfK7XVBVGPf0GG7wtiThu-4yi9g9XXnt8ef-pSW7hzHeLDXRDaZqoJQB34_N3aGgMFUwCu8LwSwhixo9GlavKjJNLLY-fJqR8a_nb7aPkB48tUAUhGTQfxnsJDkt8m_eKEMBu0cfHX5PpOQ4bXzVg6-rZbra06suQurJ4T-HPLS2mtI3UsnQeIEWQ/s2650/1821518797096139534.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="2650" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCjNIfK7XVBVGPf0GG7wtiThu-4yi9g9XXnt8ef-pSW7hzHeLDXRDaZqoJQB34_N3aGgMFUwCu8LwSwhixo9GlavKjJNLLY-fJqR8a_nb7aPkB48tUAUhGTQfxnsJDkt8m_eKEMBu0cfHX5PpOQ4bXzVg6-rZbra06suQurJ4T-HPLS2mtI3UsnQeIEWQ/w400-h170/1821518797096139534.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The base 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine puts out 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and there is a 2.7-liter turbo-4 available as an option that ups those figures to 310/360, respectively.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">But the 2.7L turbo-4 in the 2024 Cadillac CT4 V-Series is tuned to 325 hp and 380 lb.-ft., which gets zero-to-60 mph times down into the 4-second bracket.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj8rzvo2RqQaMAjKygiwqsjoVdM3ELmB7n5EnV-msWVawCtVwD7fw_pg83o348OWbWNAIvsH8Whku1ZrLQpiWaMOR7a0CyPcKjgiMdgkhrdj_oV6ECgd4tOHWWqQwhWSHdzMT4IV3JqJuPxnRHICenEqzaD-G7i0fHfujUqyI9HnDIn_JxvLyGlVy1T6A/s2656/-4600775465136158614.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1155" data-original-width="2656" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj8rzvo2RqQaMAjKygiwqsjoVdM3ELmB7n5EnV-msWVawCtVwD7fw_pg83o348OWbWNAIvsH8Whku1ZrLQpiWaMOR7a0CyPcKjgiMdgkhrdj_oV6ECgd4tOHWWqQwhWSHdzMT4IV3JqJuPxnRHICenEqzaD-G7i0fHfujUqyI9HnDIn_JxvLyGlVy1T6A/w400-h175/-4600775465136158614.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A Blackwing trim for the 2024 Cadillac CT4-V takes that performance to the extreme with a 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 with horsepower at 472 and torque 445 pound-feet, but this review is based on the standard CT4 V-Series.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The turbo-4 in the 2024 Cadillac CT4-V earns mileage ratings of 20 miles-per-gallon city, 28 highway with all-wheel drive and 20/28 with standard rear-wheel, which are competitive numbers in the luxury small car segment.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfhe79kY540f4CsXetBZhRRlOQtTj-ZNP7jTOG03-iVV5RvwP2BlRw3hKdGgx1FSyKByc11vyG_Jds6Hh3twX7oDjdC5_CPvVukMuLKCJUqaTMhDs8eBgzfZ4_pm4UDjHNfsObAiKs8ZQI3d0ZTUV7I5gAUlOXG0yveJcHsdTSAWFIC9Lx2mcHnJUG1Mo/s2843/7793813241720987977.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1661" data-original-width="2843" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfhe79kY540f4CsXetBZhRRlOQtTj-ZNP7jTOG03-iVV5RvwP2BlRw3hKdGgx1FSyKByc11vyG_Jds6Hh3twX7oDjdC5_CPvVukMuLKCJUqaTMhDs8eBgzfZ4_pm4UDjHNfsObAiKs8ZQI3d0ZTUV7I5gAUlOXG0yveJcHsdTSAWFIC9Lx2mcHnJUG1Mo/w400-h234/7793813241720987977.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Cadillac CT4-V comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive with all-wheel drive available as an option.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Brembo Brakes are standard (got to harness all that power), and Cadillac’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system is available.</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4h4sSskg0lNNbFoxU6rWuDb2WZ-u-0bGBiRmdjAgEhkhBbIgNPl81HfUbyj-2rQWLfBZBp2T1JiUeMsZeUs9O_YYEnKbGkYjl7SljoE99M4wmjNXuI-Ik33046rH9ZLEzXeQPvaUdY3xNveVG2PKS9e-C1g_4XQ8iVh2La2pN7mBUIjTTHm5479wD3o/s3658/-7899371733325115210.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2006" data-original-width="3658" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4h4sSskg0lNNbFoxU6rWuDb2WZ-u-0bGBiRmdjAgEhkhBbIgNPl81HfUbyj-2rQWLfBZBp2T1JiUeMsZeUs9O_YYEnKbGkYjl7SljoE99M4wmjNXuI-Ik33046rH9ZLEzXeQPvaUdY3xNveVG2PKS9e-C1g_4XQ8iVh2La2pN7mBUIjTTHm5479wD3o/w400-h219/-7899371733325115210.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard equipment in the 2024 Cadillac CT4-V include a rear spoiler, a leather-wrapped V-Series steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, heated outside mirrors, alloy driver pedals, wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, and 16-way adjustable front seats with 4-way lumbar support and side bolsters.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaaLz1AEsIctE0pARvTGGVI1VN3KyPSo_tDsojzo2k0A-ZLMFYXX3KU8pKcTCIez-nY35tNLTHcGf6LcqDmtsnGkrnTRudtOcpb-zIUVENqyb2V2xw4JompI6HopP6jCtfUIeBikAvfF1Qic1V4ISkJB5EKPyz3pfao29gakA2k5L8XsccPaNPChd72hU/s2882/-3478021052802296401.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2563" data-original-width="2882" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaaLz1AEsIctE0pARvTGGVI1VN3KyPSo_tDsojzo2k0A-ZLMFYXX3KU8pKcTCIez-nY35tNLTHcGf6LcqDmtsnGkrnTRudtOcpb-zIUVENqyb2V2xw4JompI6HopP6jCtfUIeBikAvfF1Qic1V4ISkJB5EKPyz3pfao29gakA2k5L8XsccPaNPChd72hU/w200-h179/-3478021052802296401.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Standard safety features include forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, front and rear parking assist, enhanced emergency braking, lane-change alert, blind-spot alert, and a buckle-to-drive system that requires the driver to buckle the seatbelt before you can shift from Park to Drive/Reverse.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My test vehicle included the Super Cruise 2 Package that in addition to the hands-free driving capability also gives you HD Surround Vision, Lighting and Technology Packages, navigation, and Bose Premium Sound.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Other options on my test Cadillac CT4-V were a jet-black interior with leather seating surfaces, sunroof, 18-inch silver metallic alloy wheels, and the all-wheel-drivetrain.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiULNEZ8p21n1XDu9eANbmEKvRdpfMkaceGTsEzMdSmBScvx6u7f6ASxx9YKXtqRndBOtihahcIozsyfCniCHJJKM6I57rWTlWJZpc6SLGQdFRz3JP5KbS3URIu2Qczu-o5uqJYo0SWhQV2T9uHR9YI3aqN45VMyHyDS1utquz1oEo1whc65mD7e1lPTlI/s1254/-2391361006575500780.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="289" data-original-width="1254" height="74" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiULNEZ8p21n1XDu9eANbmEKvRdpfMkaceGTsEzMdSmBScvx6u7f6ASxx9YKXtqRndBOtihahcIozsyfCniCHJJKM6I57rWTlWJZpc6SLGQdFRz3JP5KbS3URIu2Qczu-o5uqJYo0SWhQV2T9uHR9YI3aqN45VMyHyDS1utquz1oEo1whc65mD7e1lPTlI/s320/-2391361006575500780.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>The 2024 Cadillac CT4-V carries a starting MSRP of $47,095. Adding the options and $1,395 destination charge ran the total on my test model to $60,865.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That’s stretching an entry-level designation, but the base CT4 starts at under $34,000, which is very competitive with its competition in the compact luxury class.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLz0B9wh4-2JphIyrchXICeUO2WSzZK3lGNcxvfnJRNseTRi4Pnx6YjyqKNW2YpeHSc9uBpuvDDMWPRb_lG_jHRK7Ql7sTqChE7v7Au48XyG6R0oKXpfH7QkLqQnfHNmY3eyEtjwWNjxz3Kkzu5cnJKhEWjlyBq6DhYliqBtwDcb6omCTO8KAH2JEuSyY/s3457/-4660207865761183266.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3457" data-original-width="2175" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLz0B9wh4-2JphIyrchXICeUO2WSzZK3lGNcxvfnJRNseTRi4Pnx6YjyqKNW2YpeHSc9uBpuvDDMWPRb_lG_jHRK7Ql7sTqChE7v7Au48XyG6R0oKXpfH7QkLqQnfHNmY3eyEtjwWNjxz3Kkzu5cnJKhEWjlyBq6DhYliqBtwDcb6omCTO8KAH2JEuSyY/w126-h200/-4660207865761183266.jpeg" width="126" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2024 Cadillac CT4 V-Series:</b> The exterior has an impressive profile. Tech features are plentiful and user-friendly. Seats are comfortable, and the interior is quiet. The 2.7L 4-banger is a winner in the way of performance.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Cadillac CT4 V-Series:</b> The backseat could use a little more room (only 33.4 inches for your legs). The trunk, too, is on the small side (10.7 cubic feet of cargo space). The interior could use a little more work and less in the way of hard plastics to keep up with its competitors in the luxury segment.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the the 2024 Cadillac CT4 V-Series? </b>With a starting price point under $50,000 the CT4 V-Series offers an appealing entry to the luxury class. It delivers more in the way of driving fun than the base CT4 but at a higher price.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsdYlcW_DVorVqbCAQ-Dbr3X2HLJ_BzcsqVF4box8H5Co6ecfquoTl29QYUJmNGGwBkdra2_AXtncSRPybE16DyN-j3od5CB5keacOgPQAJ92Bcdyevrf8clGo5NB52ezkalm2GXrySrVCWJ5E7YwHU6UAuRzv9_Dv2Pf9z9AMutCM7zZnF2cYneRtfUw/s2757/-541603580159435719.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1978" data-original-width="2757" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsdYlcW_DVorVqbCAQ-Dbr3X2HLJ_BzcsqVF4box8H5Co6ecfquoTl29QYUJmNGGwBkdra2_AXtncSRPybE16DyN-j3od5CB5keacOgPQAJ92Bcdyevrf8clGo5NB52ezkalm2GXrySrVCWJ5E7YwHU6UAuRzv9_Dv2Pf9z9AMutCM7zZnF2cYneRtfUw/w640-h462/-541603580159435719.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-70836265484166796782023-12-14T19:18:00.000-08:002023-12-14T19:18:55.526-08:002024 BUICK ENVISTA<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGMd8Pzvq1RjuzyeikpdzsG5QLM_hZ-0Lih4KbsNKAE5RXI1edp5edsZxbKmwvTEPapPdfslo2RTVZzhXTHiumJbJZC9vSHklqG_VBVfgEK5bsbcw5n0HA5sHGUkp_on3rj5dUVIPzb-D7mQGFiyD_P8nD5-O-OT3XybLh-bWrt8GoVL3nH_aYtmCkmk/s2959/20231205_100457.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2174" data-original-width="2959" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGMd8Pzvq1RjuzyeikpdzsG5QLM_hZ-0Lih4KbsNKAE5RXI1edp5edsZxbKmwvTEPapPdfslo2RTVZzhXTHiumJbJZC9vSHklqG_VBVfgEK5bsbcw5n0HA5sHGUkp_on3rj5dUVIPzb-D7mQGFiyD_P8nD5-O-OT3XybLh-bWrt8GoVL3nH_aYtmCkmk/w400-h294/20231205_100457.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">BUICK ADDS NEW ENTRY LEVEL </span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">SUV TO ITS PORTFOLIO FOR 2024</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">In a prior life, the Buick Envista that debuts as a 2024 model might have been dubbed a hatchback coupe. But in keeping with company’s vehicle E-style nomenclature Buick prefers to call it a crossover SUV, joining compacts Envision and Encore GX and the mid-size Enclave in the company’s North American portfolio.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPQxYwLPCZU0E46B2tvNA71dHZP-iXzSxx3eESMzKXP6YDJeTND4Q0y79pNtFnwEtTa8yT-zZWbZPC9Ios8PrrKYi2_oSAXC_TCZK8jUXmUDi13tQDGMX-i6tpN_oi9ZCRyCG18GVpRp2K3DhAga53g4EkbMf9aQCqVWC-yXXFpymhIvEs_YwewoACKo/s561/20231205_102903.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="547" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPQxYwLPCZU0E46B2tvNA71dHZP-iXzSxx3eESMzKXP6YDJeTND4Q0y79pNtFnwEtTa8yT-zZWbZPC9Ios8PrrKYi2_oSAXC_TCZK8jUXmUDi13tQDGMX-i6tpN_oi9ZCRyCG18GVpRp2K3DhAga53g4EkbMf9aQCqVWC-yXXFpymhIvEs_YwewoACKo/w196-h200/20231205_102903.jpeg" width="196" /></a></div>Putting aside quibbling over what it is called, the 2024 Buick Evista provides a fairly affordable way for shoppers looking to step up a bit in class from Chevrolet offerings without going full-on luxury with a Cadillac.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Buick Envista comes in three trim levels — Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir — all with front-wheel drive and featuring a turbocharged 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As you might deduce, this is not a vehicle for those wanting to leave others in their dust getting away from a stop light. Horsepower is a meager 136 ponies. But the torque is a healthier 162 pound-feet kicking in at 2500 rpm so the driving experience is not as sluggish as you might think.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioplRET2sdplBiG36dBPX_ZSfyR-KLIfw2-VXxOJR1YmuOhN8nkPOl09C78WkRRoXvBGMp-490Rly2xprt5Dw7T6aEJx3r28DZlcCKq8cizvXwV9bnAyfjaDXE5fIK-M5SmFc-bZk3utWRjspClDYkf4U6vSxH12mVYWUEoFYKVQcJSLJd9gAW5obhPHc/s3660/20231205_100846%202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1667" data-original-width="3660" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioplRET2sdplBiG36dBPX_ZSfyR-KLIfw2-VXxOJR1YmuOhN8nkPOl09C78WkRRoXvBGMp-490Rly2xprt5Dw7T6aEJx3r28DZlcCKq8cizvXwV9bnAyfjaDXE5fIK-M5SmFc-bZk3utWRjspClDYkf4U6vSxH12mVYWUEoFYKVQcJSLJd9gAW5obhPHc/w400-h183/20231205_100846%202.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The payoff comes at the pump. The 3-cylinder 2024 Buick Envista earns fuel mileage figures of 28 miles-per-gallon city, 32 highway, and 30 combined using regular-grade fuel, making it one of the most fuel efficient in the luxury compact class and competitive with non-hybrid mainstream compacts.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Check that. The payoff also comes when negotiating at the dealership. The 2024 Buick Envista Preferred base trim carries a starting price under $25,000, and the top-of-the-line Avenir model that this review is based on starts at under $30,000.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjow96S2vfpVRg6PRZB39n8peaWJMPCyUyqDhZKZt4YNyrTG4ZfuK75xXRr4kN_PFMOqd32SLLt9Png3lCYWpIYPF5zZzTH82aWomvmRFX857by9YbJ-M0qTrSUAU2wfvZmaE3G2Ko7Byoyz8BkqG4KvRKfSl2DbhsS44cOkA_dzsUkYgsnRjRz5g_mX2Q/s3283/20231205_100552.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1749" data-original-width="3283" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjow96S2vfpVRg6PRZB39n8peaWJMPCyUyqDhZKZt4YNyrTG4ZfuK75xXRr4kN_PFMOqd32SLLt9Png3lCYWpIYPF5zZzTH82aWomvmRFX857by9YbJ-M0qTrSUAU2wfvZmaE3G2Ko7Byoyz8BkqG4KvRKfSl2DbhsS44cOkA_dzsUkYgsnRjRz5g_mX2Q/w400-h214/20231205_100552.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The interior is roomy with legroom of 41.9 inches up front and 38.7 in the back. Even with a sloping roofline that gives the 2024 Buick Envista its coupe-like profile, rear headroom is still 37.3 inches.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Cargo space does take a bit of a hit. With the second-row seats in place cargo space of 20.7 cubic feet is more like a big sedan than a typical SUV, but those seats fold to increase the max to 42.0 cubic feet.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDvXCd6VIySyoNiVi0t_j3Onobcr84gWQYDZ0NAutspF2I8WRIfQal4KRn1LIutNZWgOecFHq5IRUxkQPJf9Z4FUFtbBKIyM9MSzBQ2ebFFRDRbKRJzXU5Iks-2xX7144rjgx5_rTPcPp7A3N9n0Aepq1cASSJtsvmujDke4jgIm93V4kvpMT1zAj77M/s2504/20231205_101003.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1515" data-original-width="2504" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDvXCd6VIySyoNiVi0t_j3Onobcr84gWQYDZ0NAutspF2I8WRIfQal4KRn1LIutNZWgOecFHq5IRUxkQPJf9Z4FUFtbBKIyM9MSzBQ2ebFFRDRbKRJzXU5Iks-2xX7144rjgx5_rTPcPp7A3N9n0Aepq1cASSJtsvmujDke4jgIm93V4kvpMT1zAj77M/w400-h243/20231205_101003.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard features include push-button start, remote start, tilt-and-telescoping steering column, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with 2-way power lumbar support, (the passenger seat is 4-way manual), a rear folding seat, single-zone air-conditioning, auto dimming rear-view mirror, 19-inch premium Avenir wheels, LED headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights, and a rear power liftgate.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Tech features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth streaming audio, a 6-speaker audio system, an 8-inch driver information system, and an 11-inch touchscreen for infotainment functions. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGA-_c76kvVYEe-eGqIkTQHnWhYaAgjN7IhJecDyV76kEKO7bj7VepPceCamg1AvmfWN5p4X2vKJMPmw0x6vteicnTsCjrurBcz5N8n3SypUshl7CkA_DHTCL077q58GR6aoRHSFWwevS_DRpZez3XTVzJ0L_m72GzP2mGj1W-0QyRudv-LB-37zQii-U/s3891/20231205_102646.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2350" data-original-width="3891" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGA-_c76kvVYEe-eGqIkTQHnWhYaAgjN7IhJecDyV76kEKO7bj7VepPceCamg1AvmfWN5p4X2vKJMPmw0x6vteicnTsCjrurBcz5N8n3SypUshl7CkA_DHTCL077q58GR6aoRHSFWwevS_DRpZez3XTVzJ0L_m72GzP2mGj1W-0QyRudv-LB-37zQii-U/w400-h241/20231205_102646.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard safety features include a following distance, forward collision alert, lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning, front pedestrian braking, and automatic emergency braking.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpUEIpXx4b2vkP5q-HULTnBnOP42Aob5N-TUxnE1B8dcK9U_iOgcxpSHv5NBJP47Ztgsymj5eF3VxKCJP802sQKjTBZt55XnpHcbC6EjgdTfy94P9KJiyET0XuB73JVIua8PXw7XCOGxEFcu9b1Ixs62DEm1kT_MuzsS1R0zt760qiZaHlAXEv7pbkAE/s3814/20231205_102710.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3814" data-original-width="2399" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpUEIpXx4b2vkP5q-HULTnBnOP42Aob5N-TUxnE1B8dcK9U_iOgcxpSHv5NBJP47Ztgsymj5eF3VxKCJP802sQKjTBZt55XnpHcbC6EjgdTfy94P9KJiyET0XuB73JVIua8PXw7XCOGxEFcu9b1Ixs62DEm1kT_MuzsS1R0zt760qiZaHlAXEv7pbkAE/w126-h200/20231205_102710.jpeg" width="126" /></a></div>My test 2024 Buick Envista came with only one option, an Avenir Advance Safety Package for $795 that included adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, heated outside mirrors, lane-change alert with blind-size alert and rain-sensing windshield wipers.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Add that and the $1,095 destination charge and the final bottom line still stayed well below the $31,000 threshold at $30,490.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I liked about the 2024 Buick Envista:</b> Styling, both inside and out, belies its price point. Its outer appearance is appealingly coupe-like. The interior is comfortable, quiet and quite roomy. Tech features are surprisingly plentiful though there is no built-in navigation. Horsepower (137) is meager, but 162 pound-feet of torque delivers a peppier performance than you might expect. Fuel mileage is excellent.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW9XktbtnEq1Jq6SvndIAOi9A71cr4GX8NDIh7OpjDQpPGIoB_T1kM43VIvxeUXpUsQnJQnaQVSQOwzwdrW4_x070oeyKqdbLEtlkYi3QZeEDfvdNccXfP76ekvSg50wDK-d3hfIJ2VZ-HRzuRDoqsYibNS0JnKuBckzxdFfMRNRG1s2Py-9a2fRFiIxc/s3128/20231205_102945.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2517" data-original-width="3128" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW9XktbtnEq1Jq6SvndIAOi9A71cr4GX8NDIh7OpjDQpPGIoB_T1kM43VIvxeUXpUsQnJQnaQVSQOwzwdrW4_x070oeyKqdbLEtlkYi3QZeEDfvdNccXfP76ekvSg50wDK-d3hfIJ2VZ-HRzuRDoqsYibNS0JnKuBckzxdFfMRNRG1s2Py-9a2fRFiIxc/w200-h161/20231205_102945.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Buick Envista: </b>All-wheel drive is not available so that could be an issue in northern climes with winter coming up. Even in South Florida, which can get some heavy rains, AWD is nice to have. There’s a knob to adjust audio volume but not to surf the radio dial. You can’t just hold down the button to advance to various stations, but must keep punching the arrow and go station-to-station. There is a bit of an overuse of chrome touches on the exterior.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 Buick Envista?</b> The Avenir is the most expensive trim of the least expensive Buick model and still has a starting price under $30,000. It is far from a typical econobox in the compact genre and well worth a look.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXgooVhq3LR8yXOnQ0p308VLyzNT6hZofJNbD4XrCG6ODcKV0pXvDLj-C7oxRe5negJtQTDanSLChfs-1G3yMXPxqrBn6DLhGDw1KQNMdo4lUtZuM2whyphenhyphenwKbNlna9FHSFBsFcWzS-JupLOjzbmi5XtdStMiTSD8cWXUVgrSJmfN1p63BdTG80IoimfzQ/s2106/20231205_100726.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1553" data-original-width="2106" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXgooVhq3LR8yXOnQ0p308VLyzNT6hZofJNbD4XrCG6ODcKV0pXvDLj-C7oxRe5negJtQTDanSLChfs-1G3yMXPxqrBn6DLhGDw1KQNMdo4lUtZuM2whyphenhyphenwKbNlna9FHSFBsFcWzS-JupLOjzbmi5XtdStMiTSD8cWXUVgrSJmfN1p63BdTG80IoimfzQ/w640-h472/20231205_100726.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-81636801923325111792023-12-07T10:20:00.000-08:002023-12-07T12:20:39.860-08:002023 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihXQKDEaWDOLD96WchA85P6YyHYxMIH3Stb-GHIGSEHV-RPzMH9XYBfr7F-g6h1OqUFVSJR0pli-mZg2GxRo4-d9I_-TW_vJHMxp3PM4aDd51rDAALAUrw-0Q6phgnYNyKytMz2IEEMyfAG4pfukv-vRVD-qugGQvAjoSlEKCPzrn8SCyR3O3ZnToSCbE/s2541/20231127_144001.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2489" data-original-width="2541" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihXQKDEaWDOLD96WchA85P6YyHYxMIH3Stb-GHIGSEHV-RPzMH9XYBfr7F-g6h1OqUFVSJR0pli-mZg2GxRo4-d9I_-TW_vJHMxp3PM4aDd51rDAALAUrw-0Q6phgnYNyKytMz2IEEMyfAG4pfukv-vRVD-qugGQvAjoSlEKCPzrn8SCyR3O3ZnToSCbE/w400-h391/20231127_144001.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><h1 style="text-align: left;">SUBURBAN HAS LONG HISTORY OF SERVING AS ULTIMATE FAMILY HAULER</h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">If it seems like the Chevrolet Suburban has been around a long time, that’s because it has.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtdE5kEUhiurLRCjCDP6nxxaeI5zeSKy_qs0xUnL1iz79YEgBFmWSXPSl5G5fbhoiZvki1718dxQRKArq11KzhyphenhyphenM8eDxvHI3TdTote7rtrb27rwNXN7rS5J3cxtGuiaRPDl2PgaTZZ-2nuSdsITS8tYm12EW0ueJN2nAniV4PK82sQ8z8_12vGUiNn_w/s2181/20231127_145653.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="892" data-original-width="2181" height="83" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtdE5kEUhiurLRCjCDP6nxxaeI5zeSKy_qs0xUnL1iz79YEgBFmWSXPSl5G5fbhoiZvki1718dxQRKArq11KzhyphenhyphenM8eDxvHI3TdTote7rtrb27rwNXN7rS5J3cxtGuiaRPDl2PgaTZZ-2nuSdsITS8tYm12EW0ueJN2nAniV4PK82sQ8z8_12vGUiNn_w/w200-h83/20231127_145653.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>In fact, the beast of Chevy’s SUV fleet is the longest running automotive nameplate in the world, now into its 12th generation since its introduction as a 1935 model.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That beats out the Ford’s F-Series pickups by over a decade and Toyota’s Corolla, which has assumed the title of the world’s all-time best-selling vehicle, by over 30 years.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7q5jXXEBmoY1SeFDKQk_yQWJjoezRQ6st8Ngf1Z1rrWfdYvxP73-3J6OmXOOKXQgxC6-VNON76De_Gu24eRKeAO25gkOFeiIgRRUB6IGClX9WFdO9fnHdIU6YNdgwTRkRf9zWQCq0E9hKE3G3Qj9kTwC5-yrHd_RGPh4c2J2dXjSFk1u0n72qzJl-Kq0/s2589/20231127_145625.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1388" data-original-width="2589" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7q5jXXEBmoY1SeFDKQk_yQWJjoezRQ6st8Ngf1Z1rrWfdYvxP73-3J6OmXOOKXQgxC6-VNON76De_Gu24eRKeAO25gkOFeiIgRRUB6IGClX9WFdO9fnHdIU6YNdgwTRkRf9zWQCq0E9hKE3G3Qj9kTwC5-yrHd_RGPh4c2J2dXjSFk1u0n72qzJl-Kq0/w400-h216/20231127_145625.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">With the Volkswagen Beetle long out of production, no other nameplate comes close to the Suburban’s staying power. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">What’s remarkable about this longevity is that the Suburban barely makes the top 100 in overall vehicle sales and doesn’t even lead the full-size SUV segment, trailing among other competitors its Chevy Tahoe sibling.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOwuFYBz28ZdqySPO1fmcZA-xmy1Fa-dN33qHaPi1uM3qaITkRbtXVC76-aGtfD8Td42sxlmJeEv3t_k5WE-rWvUGs4rIERudsEaDiGoUq64Ka_oCfErxnE7dwxc_Jw54z7-G-IAOtHeqORlRKhyCO6BBEkVfuOfBPE0ULLz8QJawO1S4qb-N-gnh7rw/s3404/20231127_144207.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1742" data-original-width="3404" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOwuFYBz28ZdqySPO1fmcZA-xmy1Fa-dN33qHaPi1uM3qaITkRbtXVC76-aGtfD8Td42sxlmJeEv3t_k5WE-rWvUGs4rIERudsEaDiGoUq64Ka_oCfErxnE7dwxc_Jw54z7-G-IAOtHeqORlRKhyCO6BBEkVfuOfBPE0ULLz8QJawO1S4qb-N-gnh7rw/w400-h206/20231127_144207.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-size: large;">Of course, pricing has a lot to do with that, along with the Suburban’s immense size. Most buyers are going to find Tahoe’s 25.2 cubic feet of cargo area behind its third row and 72.6 behind the second, compared to the Suburban’s 41.5 and 93.8, respectively, more than adequate, and the Tahoe starts at about $3,000 less for the base model than the Suburban’s base that opens with an MSRP of $59,095.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is offered in six trim levels topped by the High Country, which this review is based on. LS trim serves as the base model with LT, RST, Z71, and Premier in between.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_cxYhPU8DJCR39MBGSsZgD5eno4ZrN3NBX_tYhWSXdRNB7718F-HArW05HtUqHpOqbxMAqeasc3yKOX3c9y9KgLDKoB1EoJIaqTLNJYMsOGsEQJclHnWieHXarIi4X9s0IvrZFwqaCqmSjnXmmDAUNsDwltlBiCGifKeAVYhgrNCfDWHsRk-w9_R7xhY/s2600/20231127_144433.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2093" data-original-width="2600" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_cxYhPU8DJCR39MBGSsZgD5eno4ZrN3NBX_tYhWSXdRNB7718F-HArW05HtUqHpOqbxMAqeasc3yKOX3c9y9KgLDKoB1EoJIaqTLNJYMsOGsEQJclHnWieHXarIi4X9s0IvrZFwqaCqmSjnXmmDAUNsDwltlBiCGifKeAVYhgrNCfDWHsRk-w9_R7xhY/w400-h324/20231127_144433.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A 5.3-liter V8 engine is standard across the line with a 6.2L V8available. My test 2024 Chevy Suburban High Country features the optional 3.0L inline-6 turbo diesel that, while rated at only 255 horsepower, cranks out 460 pound-feet of torque to match the larger V8 gas engine in pulling power.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A 10-speed automatic transmission is standard across the board, and each trim is available in 2-wheel or all-wheel drive except for the Z71, which is available only with 4-wheel owing to its off-road emphasis.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp19_20R9DoKcBZjx5obxV9DGielSHpsQgrK8KWkNuXFsijWmzFoPeaA4ARbWMVGyWVjZL80q9nxN9lGzzJ8H-n5kLqMQki0sOJJzow2EIcnVs78coKh3TNZqovFY3qnbu_qkyrnxadScee9Inr6sRRUygi3RwD45QMl_yWD1PtJs4G4qfL135QeamV6U/s3815/20231127_161050.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2010" data-original-width="3815" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp19_20R9DoKcBZjx5obxV9DGielSHpsQgrK8KWkNuXFsijWmzFoPeaA4ARbWMVGyWVjZL80q9nxN9lGzzJ8H-n5kLqMQki0sOJJzow2EIcnVs78coKh3TNZqovFY3qnbu_qkyrnxadScee9Inr6sRRUygi3RwD45QMl_yWD1PtJs4G4qfL135QeamV6U/w400-h211/20231127_161050.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The turbo diesel with two-wheel drive is rated at 21 miles-per-gallon city, 27 highway, and 23 comb while four-wheel-drive models check in at 20/26/22.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The gas engines are a bit thirstier, of course, with the 5.3L V8 earning numbers of 15/20/17 (2WD) and 15/19/16 (4WD) and the larger 6.2L /V8 checking in at 14/20.16 (2WD) and 14/18/16 (4/WD).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaktjW2uq6aY4wgDaH7IFmF7i6nNeYGtd7t_TCEI4QL0R5uIs5ioADVOlcrdUkwlbHWC1XYZLExwhbWaCCqBT158ezI6Pg6vUucIv2ppk3quHgkuk9tYSGPu674JZGdSGXvu7GTV7Wa8o6fpOFCx0Z9UnmpGfnxx9SmLyy0HeqBg7Zg_D2-BZf4Bhm9g/s3416/20231127_161140.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3416" data-original-width="2694" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaktjW2uq6aY4wgDaH7IFmF7i6nNeYGtd7t_TCEI4QL0R5uIs5ioADVOlcrdUkwlbHWC1XYZLExwhbWaCCqBT158ezI6Pg6vUucIv2ppk3quHgkuk9tYSGPu674JZGdSGXvu7GTV7Wa8o6fpOFCx0Z9UnmpGfnxx9SmLyy0HeqBg7Zg_D2-BZf4Bhm9g/w158-h200/20231127_161140.jpeg" width="158" /></a></div>As the top-of-the-portfolio model, the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban High County offers a long list of standard features. Some of the more distinctive ones include tech features like wireless charging for cell phones and other devices, Chevy’s Infotainment 3 system with a 10.2-inch touchscreen and built-in Google capability, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Bluetooth streaming audio for most phones. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">With the size of the interior, you may find yourself stretching to get to some of the touch points, but the system overall is user-friendly.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard interior features on the 2024 Chevy Suburban High Country include tri-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats with leather seating surfaces, second-row heated bucket seats, and split-bench third row with power fold capability.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTaf19L37Ms0Y7uMQwR-ievIfwK2CHjwKmBpehL0rukmkfbsf3KDpHrv5uy6posmU0K_uVUvN19GDNCiYPVdvxUDGhkrxogBtdyag0DDFnPttfImLjpC_Tydp-1sx-P1UZJshfRsBQlcc774dU_tEmfNHY0eaa6mjjJcQe9w7hLfY6FI1cC4VCz_hJTt8/s1649/20231127_144835.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="1649" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTaf19L37Ms0Y7uMQwR-ievIfwK2CHjwKmBpehL0rukmkfbsf3KDpHrv5uy6posmU0K_uVUvN19GDNCiYPVdvxUDGhkrxogBtdyag0DDFnPttfImLjpC_Tydp-1sx-P1UZJshfRsBQlcc774dU_tEmfNHY0eaa6mjjJcQe9w7hLfY6FI1cC4VCz_hJTt8/w200-h52/20231127_144835.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>LED headlights, daytime running lights, and taillights and a hands-free liftgate also are standard.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Safety features include front pedestrian braking, forward collision alert, lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning, auto high beam, HD surround vision, and rear pedestrian alert.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">All that is included in the $80,400 starting price.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My test vehicle had options that, with the $1,895 destination and delivery charge, put the final total at $90,555. Those options started with the Advanced Tech Package ($2,700), a rear-seat entertainment system that includes two 12.6-inch HD screens ($1,995), power assist steps ($1,745), a power panoramic sunroof ($1,500), air-ride adaptive suspension ($1,000), adaptive cruise control ($500), and a trailering package ($415).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjFh0AvXnClNYQFk8LSuIGV6v7BZdjwDDRDJHFxdYtPwuf1SLIC2f1fT6WKh8Yjorn-miS9Td3itE-z8uRnuZFxDS9B2Kv-qPYN0wHqfGjgQ_SiqJs0kszvolYgj4HPKo3V_byfWQ3Jnntv76NY9guOjnUkDppQdwJRL8G7fSHnGaZSHoYsq98EKhGUzQ/s3559/20231127_161258.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2932" data-original-width="3559" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjFh0AvXnClNYQFk8LSuIGV6v7BZdjwDDRDJHFxdYtPwuf1SLIC2f1fT6WKh8Yjorn-miS9Td3itE-z8uRnuZFxDS9B2Kv-qPYN0wHqfGjgQ_SiqJs0kszvolYgj4HPKo3V_byfWQ3Jnntv76NY9guOjnUkDppQdwJRL8G7fSHnGaZSHoYsq98EKhGUzQ/w200-h166/20231127_161258.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban: </b>The huge interior has massive space for both passengers and cargo. Space behind the third row is plentiful. Tech features on the High Country trim include knobs for both tuning the radio and manually adjusting climate control. It’s a smooth cruiser out on the highway. Chevy’s hands-free driving system Super Cruise is available on the High Country. HD Surround Visiton is standard and a huge help. Optional running boards make getting in and out a snap.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 02X Chevrolet Suburban:</b> The massive size is both a blessing and a curse. All that room is nice, but it’s a bear to maneuver through mall parking lots and not all that easy to find enough space to park it and still get out the doors. I would prefer a standard shifter instead of buttons to change gears.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 202X Chevrolet Suburban?</b> Too big for me, but if you have to haul around kids’ sports teams around as part of your tasks, it’s ideal for hauling them and their gear, even bats and catcher’ equipment.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3XVwE2QLDmsHMulNy8tsM73HQJRvgQtwerZ3ZG35FBylCOanFEPddC5wsKK9GhxE5MsZKHc9T2eWIvV_7gt1RxaR11h8JimO1V7s_ayJ2pUZbDKT9hKMlHwk08unDdoCJPfZ8E4gtD6IhyhLZuftft1z8sCGhgeGld8-gZDV8LycMS24r0XNq13PA0lY/s2089/20231127_144814.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1646" data-original-width="2089" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3XVwE2QLDmsHMulNy8tsM73HQJRvgQtwerZ3ZG35FBylCOanFEPddC5wsKK9GhxE5MsZKHc9T2eWIvV_7gt1RxaR11h8JimO1V7s_ayJ2pUZbDKT9hKMlHwk08unDdoCJPfZ8E4gtD6IhyhLZuftft1z8sCGhgeGld8-gZDV8LycMS24r0XNq13PA0lY/w640-h506/20231127_144814.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-24019642876599285222023-11-29T13:20:00.000-08:002023-11-29T13:20:09.318-08:002024 HYUNDAI SANTA CRUZ<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufWJ4MCQhbT0BD23XRbeMByqJ72TO0CkKYhk6imTZSveO7RCJUR1If9cmm7HPFhiCHAOxNXzrsgMAQAC3TvvQ3_l4jBWnf7wLOwWXytVaLatuu1ENxeljLsotOJ5HuykRHzjE5XnZgGYU_W6XyNsPo_aD8bUeTYe5z6eRPqnUstDZrkKXFDTuo__fI4E/s3261/20231120_124655%202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2069" data-original-width="3261" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufWJ4MCQhbT0BD23XRbeMByqJ72TO0CkKYhk6imTZSveO7RCJUR1If9cmm7HPFhiCHAOxNXzrsgMAQAC3TvvQ3_l4jBWnf7wLOwWXytVaLatuu1ENxeljLsotOJ5HuykRHzjE5XnZgGYU_W6XyNsPo_aD8bUeTYe5z6eRPqnUstDZrkKXFDTuo__fI4E/w400-h254/20231120_124655%202.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">HYUNDAI OFFERS AN SUV MADE<br />FOR THE CITY WITH SANTA CRUZ</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Finally, a pickup truck that accommodates tight city streets and parking places.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45IJ6dnmYMvGGt-fFjZcuCWq6F3wkt7Lice13DShT1Im1_jjoyFUBR3dpaNM5xDrYzFlRR6c3ClO7AmxlMsr7YjlqIdpnd6eJBZ1SWa-Zx2vjnG4zbdhWZUO7gaAWy4jQBVNKRQPPs0WojgjypHsBf5sr9FRMMXX8vvBBi1iFCVDK8EWK4hXRlQlWHAQ/s1667/20231128_161412.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="936" data-original-width="1667" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45IJ6dnmYMvGGt-fFjZcuCWq6F3wkt7Lice13DShT1Im1_jjoyFUBR3dpaNM5xDrYzFlRR6c3ClO7AmxlMsr7YjlqIdpnd6eJBZ1SWa-Zx2vjnG4zbdhWZUO7gaAWy4jQBVNKRQPPs0WojgjypHsBf5sr9FRMMXX8vvBBi1iFCVDK8EWK4hXRlQlWHAQ/w200-h113/20231128_161412.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>If a full-size or even mid-size pickup is too big for your life-style and your budget, Hyundai has the truck for you with its compact Santa Cruz.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Sure, it’s not going to work for you if you’re running a construction business and do a lot of heavy duty hauling, but if you’re like most of us, what’s behind the cabin isn’t as important as what’s inside it.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj050OFsoVVgIS_Ajn09Lx5-8UqVfz-Feh5TTI13CJAsipMYJ6msjNVcEYCS-AW4-rTmk7m9Cof85sMQ6DnLZWUHxXOZHeIPmzIX4KNBIAsBT_mJ5q7I8oaCXlMcmzn_tUgnUm_0SKoeqMPzUGCp7dkWpA3SK7dRMjQCDQwIV4YlV6wvX0coVSCfVIbTo8/s3628/20231120_125121.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1997" data-original-width="3628" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj050OFsoVVgIS_Ajn09Lx5-8UqVfz-Feh5TTI13CJAsipMYJ6msjNVcEYCS-AW4-rTmk7m9Cof85sMQ6DnLZWUHxXOZHeIPmzIX4KNBIAsBT_mJ5q7I8oaCXlMcmzn_tUgnUm_0SKoeqMPzUGCp7dkWpA3SK7dRMjQCDQwIV4YlV6wvX0coVSCfVIbTo8/w400-h220/20231120_125121.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">And what’s inside the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a suite of features and conveniences that will make you forget you are actually behind the wheel of a truck, not a compact SUV or high class sedan.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The South Korean automaker ventured into the pickup truck segment by introducing the Santa Cruz as a 2022 model. It targeted buyers who traditionally shopped in the crossover SUV segment and are adventurous enough that they need the extra storage space an open bed would provide instead of the enclosed back of an SUV.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQNxwi7K_lcJZoY-JG4KRWfank6J6MRYUDSmLDMEAOeCw_TbRnluZqhmzmqNSqbgG4aF5aXQH_Z1rOVPKlF8DV8R3XIYylngEHtvLVt-XAwMZJe9_q4sRxD2TmogFNGVWADBNIyyXrpi0uiK9aHCgbAXzmc3ftAFTcjz22IbD42Cswi4_YqzstJMEqDeU/s2895/20231120_124813.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1581" data-original-width="2895" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQNxwi7K_lcJZoY-JG4KRWfank6J6MRYUDSmLDMEAOeCw_TbRnluZqhmzmqNSqbgG4aF5aXQH_Z1rOVPKlF8DV8R3XIYylngEHtvLVt-XAwMZJe9_q4sRxD2TmogFNGVWADBNIyyXrpi0uiK9aHCgbAXzmc3ftAFTcjz22IbD42Cswi4_YqzstJMEqDeU/w400-h219/20231120_124813.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Even as a relatively newcomer, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz gets some tweaks and a new trim level with the XRT replacing what was formally dubbed SEL Premium. The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT, which this review is based on, and the Limited and Night models kind of separate themselves from the base SE and SEL trims with upgraded powertrains and higher starting prices.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The SE and SEL come with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that is rated at 181 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque while the XRT, Night, and Limited versions get a 2.5L turbocharged 4-banger that boosts those numbers to 281/311, respectively.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gkRxhp24216I6D4fQzVQd43GSw2hrPb4HggFWYWYXdSUS7qNjX85me5yvlQXlfdKQ5sFJ6S9KLUPc8CHVCY8Zpz0Ej4lehmbtL0771lHe_KPwWbKbTDyVsttQ0WgHwpWWsAo_tyUnkH2HqKjcdY2yq2ZPbKlBjF-BzWq73T4Wp2S2APbKPbYUwLnx5Q/s3221/20231120_124953.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2041" data-original-width="3221" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gkRxhp24216I6D4fQzVQd43GSw2hrPb4HggFWYWYXdSUS7qNjX85me5yvlQXlfdKQ5sFJ6S9KLUPc8CHVCY8Zpz0Ej4lehmbtL0771lHe_KPwWbKbTDyVsttQ0WgHwpWWsAo_tyUnkH2HqKjcdY2yq2ZPbKlBjF-BzWq73T4Wp2S2APbKPbYUwLnx5Q/w400-h254/20231120_124953.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The turbo gets a dual clutch transmission with paddle shifters in place of the standard automatic.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That and the extra standard features results in a jump in starting MSRPs of below $31,000 for the SE and SEL trims to over $38,000 for the higher end models.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Every Santa Cruz comes with LED headlights with high beam assist and tail lamps, an LED cargo light and safety features like blind-spot assist, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, lane-keeping and lane-following assist, and forward collision avoidance assist.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXIT27WdEYrqlAXUBCFAE6bCRiw2cloRIfbaXeSORSPgMVbURaNtTkcV_JoC4t0j2YvYn5BNPospUrldcsq0hlRdNcFqSPrvuNaIhVuD1gvXOi2KtYPKdT11VGXuvHw2PJ9QAuDio2vaVDq5bk47v_KtMCq3jO68-rL9EpMYWUOledBEK0sJ0E7doPNqQ/s3894/20231120_130531.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2059" data-original-width="3894" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXIT27WdEYrqlAXUBCFAE6bCRiw2cloRIfbaXeSORSPgMVbURaNtTkcV_JoC4t0j2YvYn5BNPospUrldcsq0hlRdNcFqSPrvuNaIhVuD1gvXOi2KtYPKdT11VGXuvHw2PJ9QAuDio2vaVDq5bk47v_KtMCq3jO68-rL9EpMYWUOledBEK0sJ0E7doPNqQ/w400-h211/20231120_130531.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, lockable bed storage compartment, a multi-functional tailgate with assisted open/close, rear bumper steps, power panoramic sunroof, front dual USB ports, rear-view camera, rear-seat heater ducts, tilt-and-telescoping steering column, and Bluetooth connectivity also are all common features. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">With the XRT, you get Smart (adaptable) cruise control, dual climate control, an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, synthetic leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 3-month subscription to Sirius-XM satellite radio, Hyundai’s Blue Link-plus Connected Car System, a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_rEd6XdVJa_eoUJ9OBcU1sG1na9z7QRQmtwG30BSWBmBbCt1k9atmJT83nxV0ny3CPdrgS5rLtpkzjYtxerqOuxhyphenhyphen6Bbk7UI6bTqm1LMoMI5UEpOnWdw38VyMt7nNzqPzY5QqQ3Dsg206MB4FXR2Vnx7T0GnA5CKBtDLcIz_CInNf9HfbxzxHxlNaiY/s3519/20231120_125141.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="730" data-original-width="3519" height="66" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_rEd6XdVJa_eoUJ9OBcU1sG1na9z7QRQmtwG30BSWBmBbCt1k9atmJT83nxV0ny3CPdrgS5rLtpkzjYtxerqOuxhyphenhyphen6Bbk7UI6bTqm1LMoMI5UEpOnWdw38VyMt7nNzqPzY5QqQ3Dsg206MB4FXR2Vnx7T0GnA5CKBtDLcIz_CInNf9HfbxzxHxlNaiY/w320-h66/20231120_125141.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">All-wheel drive is standard on the Night, XRT, and Limited models and optional to replace front-wheel drive on the SE and SEL.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Starting MSRP for the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT is $39,850. Adding the $1,335 freight charge and my test 2024 Hyundai Cruz XRT came in at $41,185.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rMuS80v4i2Tq7wC_rzxJDBJQfAZfL5fl6siJrXezg341LywU0soO5B9EQTq9XfVU1rbwW0FNQ8UPVSADTLBvTrC2nXcNEFHVZ4lXtYjq1lPQtQSO9qyMVIeY1yndmoLQQxFgyz0TaxEDqfAR6LDmfBfHYzXRgypTiaCIEua9SMLibmVKgIF-Bg7XGvo/s2880/20231120_130554.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1958" data-original-width="2880" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rMuS80v4i2Tq7wC_rzxJDBJQfAZfL5fl6siJrXezg341LywU0soO5B9EQTq9XfVU1rbwW0FNQ8UPVSADTLBvTrC2nXcNEFHVZ4lXtYjq1lPQtQSO9qyMVIeY1yndmoLQQxFgyz0TaxEDqfAR6LDmfBfHYzXRgypTiaCIEua9SMLibmVKgIF-Bg7XGvo/w200-h137/20231120_130554.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT: </b>The size is perfect for those wanting to get out of an SUV yet have a vehicle with some hauling capacity. Technology is plentiful. Its compact size makes it easy to handle, especially in an urban environment with cramped parking lots and narrow streets. The gear shifter is in the traditional spot on the console instead of a button on the console/dash panel. The turbo engine on the XRT and Limited trims is worth stretching your budget for, not just for performance but for a higher towing capacity (5,000 pounds). Side steps make getting in and out a snap, though frankly the Santa Cruz isn’t all that high to begin with.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT:</b> Overall, tech features are user friendly but I don’t understand why they eliminates a convenient knob to control audio volume. Finding the button to adjust the volume can detract from the driver’s attention. Voice guidance for navigation referred to little-used street names for Miami, where a street can have up to three or more names. Stick to numbers, Hyundai!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT?</b> Yes. Unless you are doing big hauling jobs, the Santa Cruz has the capability most people are going to need when it comes to runs to Home Depot and Lowe’s.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiwKkgmmnRHJdLHgZ0WzJ48XVplB2mEweXMcyle8zUc1gZeqPVBwGxGQ8upF6iKj12Z07OceAIuJZS18jXXU3P_DZ2nfS2MO71_HAAcHAiEdohlFpExdhhM6mTPDjenySGQhjr7M9YBZJhZiDwhHmb1RgaKpKGSsIfOROTtETvXaqWQhHnqDftrC_E_0/s2123/20231120_125732.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1656" data-original-width="2123" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiwKkgmmnRHJdLHgZ0WzJ48XVplB2mEweXMcyle8zUc1gZeqPVBwGxGQ8upF6iKj12Z07OceAIuJZS18jXXU3P_DZ2nfS2MO71_HAAcHAiEdohlFpExdhhM6mTPDjenySGQhjr7M9YBZJhZiDwhHmb1RgaKpKGSsIfOROTtETvXaqWQhHnqDftrC_E_0/w640-h502/20231120_125732.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-44163839807580256472023-11-22T14:01:00.000-08:002023-11-22T14:13:46.706-08:002024 CHEVROLET SILVERADO<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK6JeveymrZg5uOLFukEFARekulfJdK3KUSpcM-epqmVwcn2dyqWE5IgDgPMIEfZzXReZ5_BI8F49lf_dkhWGw4BzOQPQP7KcNhh9axTFar3SfMXGSGjguM6U5pTZ_iBB5NxSPS1Yw3fmnnpTXzGbTn-LBa87aFzjqE-1S0pzfchKErbsCZHSO4mtDbFE/s2661/20231113_103153.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1783" data-original-width="2661" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK6JeveymrZg5uOLFukEFARekulfJdK3KUSpcM-epqmVwcn2dyqWE5IgDgPMIEfZzXReZ5_BI8F49lf_dkhWGw4BzOQPQP7KcNhh9axTFar3SfMXGSGjguM6U5pTZ_iBB5NxSPS1Yw3fmnnpTXzGbTn-LBa87aFzjqE-1S0pzfchKErbsCZHSO4mtDbFE/w400-h268/20231113_103153.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">CHEVY SILVERADO REGAINS NO. 2 SPOT AMONG PICKUP SALES AHEAD OF RAM</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">It you have ever taken a moment to look around you when idling at a busy intersection, it should come as no surprise to you that pickup trucks rate among the most popular vehicles on the road today</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVrAZ9Z0TzvY1c3A1aepq0BeqDhyuCK2Jvba7w_J5804iQ-Z4VMEPj5kSWn-3tiqRIjkw-vPlvaxbbFEj3Y8ZB4NVt9gtuIUiS0VeKY8K0-TXVINx56BKgzTtHuVLGbSUl3ZQka7p16XdYgcc4WDmY2uIR0pnMTjvJX0xcGb450tIYsVqCB_JPd0RHZA/s1855/20231113_104609.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="1855" height="74" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVrAZ9Z0TzvY1c3A1aepq0BeqDhyuCK2Jvba7w_J5804iQ-Z4VMEPj5kSWn-3tiqRIjkw-vPlvaxbbFEj3Y8ZB4NVt9gtuIUiS0VeKY8K0-TXVINx56BKgzTtHuVLGbSUl3ZQka7p16XdYgcc4WDmY2uIR0pnMTjvJX0xcGb450tIYsVqCB_JPd0RHZA/w200-h74/20231113_104609.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>In fact, putting together numbers supplied by <i>Car & Driver </i>magazine, the top three vehicles in sales last year were pickup trucks with the Ford F-Series leading the way and the Chevrolet Silverado reclaiming the No. 2 spot from Ram, which checked in at No. 3.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That trend also sees to be continuing this year with those three in the same order. Throw in the GMC Sierra at No 8 and it’s no wonder you are likely to find yourself staring up at a truck bed as you wait for the light to change. And that’s just dealing with the full-size models.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4n2KhxfjiCyazAuQKYI4RCyA0c3KQO8sa7sRZ8wDJTjHgBWcoREYzjU6dxYZpAUk0ZxbCF_6bGss2-8plWhpnHDLyH9qxE-vDA2mkIh4FObjGV60jFKfrMkBwkPtA6KT7FgQgRWyaxv2hBWfEE-fuXzZ3UflX2DKX2QpboGVog4t3_OfIDEg7nEOUuw/s3431/20231113_103356.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1422" data-original-width="3431" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4n2KhxfjiCyazAuQKYI4RCyA0c3KQO8sa7sRZ8wDJTjHgBWcoREYzjU6dxYZpAUk0ZxbCF_6bGss2-8plWhpnHDLyH9qxE-vDA2mkIh4FObjGV60jFKfrMkBwkPtA6KT7FgQgRWyaxv2hBWfEE-fuXzZ3UflX2DKX2QpboGVog4t3_OfIDEg7nEOUuw/w400-h166/20231113_103356.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Analysts say that brand loyalty is a big factor when it comes to buyers’ decisions on which pickup to buy, much more for trucks than the companies’ other products. A study by S&P Global Mobility, which compiles data from the auto industry, revealed that more than half of Chevy buyers (56.3 percent) were repeat customers, but that figure dipped to 47.9 percent when the Silverado was taken out of the equation.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The company showed similar results when the F-Series was not included in the data for Ford.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcP4ujQ3JRjRN0BDIkfnTgeDODAm3Kd4hnMr2ShVEBhyphenhyphendqVj10LRusKi1emzX0SmitEiluchSAqWtX50XYX6sKrRndEAvJIbisOnZ6Mltq15qnpcMookiNrQR-yc5fZJMgrVBk77kMmoHjgSfdgtrfp4T4RpLlV0pdxft1EeqjiwVzIuKwylUjwwYOkEg/s3076/20231113_103719.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1620" data-original-width="3076" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcP4ujQ3JRjRN0BDIkfnTgeDODAm3Kd4hnMr2ShVEBhyphenhyphendqVj10LRusKi1emzX0SmitEiluchSAqWtX50XYX6sKrRndEAvJIbisOnZ6Mltq15qnpcMookiNrQR-yc5fZJMgrVBk77kMmoHjgSfdgtrfp4T4RpLlV0pdxft1EeqjiwVzIuKwylUjwwYOkEg/w400-h211/20231113_103719.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That may not be the best news for Chevy and the Silverado to gain ground in its race with Ford’s F-Series, but No. 2 in this context is not bad.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2024 Chevy Silverado is a very versatile pickup offering four different engine options, including a diesel, and a collection of cabin configurations that make it equally at home as a workhorse or family vehicle.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzjn78gPZ5xelpLXRV1upmjCcWQ8Oipmm2msKSzzAirWd-_1HnYMa3NvMD-iaKQhHIO8xR_T1GWG9eHwxCeYKCXzrQ4h17jvSMH-fMy2i9QLboF24KJS7TYeCJEjmE-xnaPXBJeJD0zZimOgKWBesOaAV7iJyVeTr0D2541WZh8xFMt-w2QDERg8ehio/s2623/20231113_103557.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2375" data-original-width="2623" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzjn78gPZ5xelpLXRV1upmjCcWQ8Oipmm2msKSzzAirWd-_1HnYMa3NvMD-iaKQhHIO8xR_T1GWG9eHwxCeYKCXzrQ4h17jvSMH-fMy2i9QLboF24KJS7TYeCJEjmE-xnaPXBJeJD0zZimOgKWBesOaAV7iJyVeTr0D2541WZh8xFMt-w2QDERg8ehio/w400-h364/20231113_103557.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">It comes in nine different trims with two or four doors and various bed sizes ranging from 5 feet, 8 inches to 8-feet depending on the cab configuration. The options are Regular Cab, Double Cab, or Crew Cab.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">In addition to the 3.0-liter inline turbo 6-cylinder diesel, two V-8s (5.3L and 6.2L) and a 2.7L inline-4 now dubbed TurboMax are offered.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JcOLydIRdul3e0xnZd3ytLMpzzxVqReZ8xKLBoV-BKMVT4sTP8Qf40ntl__uR9J9JSthoo1u53g2LMrrN5_klNgKu4Ngrr-IX8iEhUe_HPbp8gOe1Ig5DtkjVxcXE8ovjWBHo-nVGqYgHFIQ4w-7Vz5TFoHJ1QGRY8hlk79zi89vPZkQfHkxIjx5pQU/s3977/20231114_160418.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1816" data-original-width="3977" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JcOLydIRdul3e0xnZd3ytLMpzzxVqReZ8xKLBoV-BKMVT4sTP8Qf40ntl__uR9J9JSthoo1u53g2LMrrN5_klNgKu4Ngrr-IX8iEhUe_HPbp8gOe1Ig5DtkjVxcXE8ovjWBHo-nVGqYgHFIQ4w-7Vz5TFoHJ1QGRY8hlk79zi89vPZkQfHkxIjx5pQU/w400-h183/20231114_160418.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Don’t be put off by 4-cylinder engine. The Turbomax puts out more torque (430 pound-feet) than the 5.3L V8 (383 lb.-ft.) and is competitive with the 6.2L V8 (460 lb.-ft.). Horsepower is a competitive 310 hp in the TurboMax.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Fuel economy for all-wheel versions with the Turbomax is 17 miles-per-gallon city, 19 highway and 18 combined which is more efficient than either of the V8 AWD models. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH3QD0S8KXjkfSIeaF-uuBFPzZRLESPoKy7C1ZNSLoyw1rYiC2V_W_fOeUfKOj8wluzUmaSJWIU7JdcN-PrFRTFRmSv94rG08BgTSs_7efbPT3rs7jKKBIZ5pvTWcinegogdMrZpMzJDHA1gN_QZwvgzM-Fn-DfCk5GYNb8c-JWK4rYMZToR-bqsihUtQ/s4080/20231114_160614.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3060" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH3QD0S8KXjkfSIeaF-uuBFPzZRLESPoKy7C1ZNSLoyw1rYiC2V_W_fOeUfKOj8wluzUmaSJWIU7JdcN-PrFRTFRmSv94rG08BgTSs_7efbPT3rs7jKKBIZ5pvTWcinegogdMrZpMzJDHA1gN_QZwvgzM-Fn-DfCk5GYNb8c-JWK4rYMZToR-bqsihUtQ/w150-h200/20231114_160614.jpeg" width="150" /></a></div>The TurboMax is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The V8s and diesel are paired with a 10-speed automatic.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My test vehicle for the week was the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss with the TurboMax engine and features from the LT trim.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard features include a slew of tech features from Chevrolet’s Infotainment 3 system all operated on a 13.4-inch touchscreen. Yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, and the radio is satellite capable via subscription.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlMB3Zpn2ldPfRkhsUATfA5RMX8AWUFrXZPD8wQ3ZGqLRFDk-K_5ByLunb3wuPbt8CJDGN9LvPgdrpWu8lXcwn2ZD5pZ01uL88OyNOl-qJyCIl0gQNVhrjSvW5IsA61zadZ9MefXPe8m_RHddU9ydA7IT2BvbBwjBO0dUC8tQ9jlZJOQFDQBmI47502w/s3788/20231114_160702.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2021" data-original-width="3788" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlMB3Zpn2ldPfRkhsUATfA5RMX8AWUFrXZPD8wQ3ZGqLRFDk-K_5ByLunb3wuPbt8CJDGN9LvPgdrpWu8lXcwn2ZD5pZ01uL88OyNOl-qJyCIl0gQNVhrjSvW5IsA61zadZ9MefXPe8m_RHddU9ydA7IT2BvbBwjBO0dUC8tQ9jlZJOQFDQBmI47502w/w200-h108/20231114_160702.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Keyless entry, push-button start, remote start, dual zone climate control, a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, and 120-volt power outlet in the cargo area are standard. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Features catering to off-roading adventures on the LT Trail Boss included the 271 off-road package with 2-inch lift, skid plates, monotube shocks, hill descent control, and a heavy duty air filter.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Starting MSRP for the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss is $58,000. The radiant red tintcoat was the only option that added to that for a final total of $60,340 including the $1,895 destination and delivery charge.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TrHYnCSB59mcaCsdgCHcBc9UKtoqbhGq8fmgWplcQyFFJ4st7LQ2NFOatHbkA2WXT6fuVpfW8pE1uzwucHo4lQQlXeyTmIhR_9wZvhi3G1S5rl3CKKGCvEJpb9DsJ2xLOafVnr67TwGAl3I-7Zh4sMQMziFaer6yDmlK95VdGzl95ERVRMh6ooHtHVI/s2995/20231114_160338.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2253" data-original-width="2995" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TrHYnCSB59mcaCsdgCHcBc9UKtoqbhGq8fmgWplcQyFFJ4st7LQ2NFOatHbkA2WXT6fuVpfW8pE1uzwucHo4lQQlXeyTmIhR_9wZvhi3G1S5rl3CKKGCvEJpb9DsJ2xLOafVnr67TwGAl3I-7Zh4sMQMziFaer6yDmlK95VdGzl95ERVRMh6ooHtHVI/w200-h151/20231114_160338.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I liked about the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss:</b> The cabin is quiet, comfortable, and roomy. The size is a pain in urban driving but a plus on the highway. Infotainment functions are easily accessible via the touchscreen. The ride may seem firm on longer hauls.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss:</b> It needs a running board. I understand if you are doing a lot or trail riding (which is why you bought the Trail Boss, right?) you want as much ground clearance as you can get. But getting in and out of the cabin without a running board is a chore. (They are standard on the top-of-the-line High Country trim.) The ride can seem a bit rough of times, but then it is a truck.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss? </b>I’m not in need of a full-size pickup and but if you are it’s likely to come down to the Silverado (or its GMC sibling Sierra), a Ford F-150, or a Ram 1500. Choosing among them may come down to what you have had in the past.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirsZ5icTpMAXlaTFx7alX_pk1OYN8WwlDgq70YjJmUBy3nLkFU5LGdp8d0HMwMHYcegciDakyHWP97oBwKTdRhl48sgvNxOfYmtNeHpBAGGKVYz-E6-AhHfpTOTnmbBChydd3-_ezu3I8STz5cVAYscK-mqXMY6AUVIAEeUDPLmdyIqESN8v0NRO-ZZ24/s2825/20231113_104532.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2079" data-original-width="2825" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirsZ5icTpMAXlaTFx7alX_pk1OYN8WwlDgq70YjJmUBy3nLkFU5LGdp8d0HMwMHYcegciDakyHWP97oBwKTdRhl48sgvNxOfYmtNeHpBAGGKVYz-E6-AhHfpTOTnmbBChydd3-_ezu3I8STz5cVAYscK-mqXMY6AUVIAEeUDPLmdyIqESN8v0NRO-ZZ24/w640-h470/20231113_104532.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-3655092106698450672023-11-14T13:50:00.000-08:002023-11-14T13:50:38.055-08:002023 LINCOLN CORSAIR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9GWHsW7gNnJwZNIE8ukwDr4fvMPNLHaWUff2C2IT17JBrcncGX4qBmvBE1CSIcx6de6Wd3qyBgAYsbAi8xhXUEbXN2lZXDSf8qVRglQiXTCRnf3gSqLhYRsjW-vr3buc7ZWYCimrDMBwiz7XO4sdjhM2RxiTauTudf65aP5AirO5jYHDgmbxkglxglY/s2236/20231106_142244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1530" data-original-width="2236" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9GWHsW7gNnJwZNIE8ukwDr4fvMPNLHaWUff2C2IT17JBrcncGX4qBmvBE1CSIcx6de6Wd3qyBgAYsbAi8xhXUEbXN2lZXDSf8qVRglQiXTCRnf3gSqLhYRsjW-vr3buc7ZWYCimrDMBwiz7XO4sdjhM2RxiTauTudf65aP5AirO5jYHDgmbxkglxglY/w400-h275/20231106_142244.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>SALES HEAT UP FOR REFRESHED </b></span></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">LINCOLN CORSAIR COMPACT SUV</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Corsair may be the smallest entry in the Lincoln’s all-SUV fleet, but latest sales figures show that it is punching well above its weight class.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP-O0LKoZz3HC6hTKLradX1DL62xj1_X6VjZzmC6zU-RSqYJPKIXtefiNTqyv6p8MntGjfJSKKnnd8J82fOYIY2T_DCK4Yi5P8Sf00_wvlpJyL0kdoXptN0Vj0wbhN-hlySEtKANwAUqdtCD-r7WKaD_fVqWPXJx9_Qur66xo175tIIjhI6ttf6ZdjiDI/s912/20231106_143022.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="394" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP-O0LKoZz3HC6hTKLradX1DL62xj1_X6VjZzmC6zU-RSqYJPKIXtefiNTqyv6p8MntGjfJSKKnnd8J82fOYIY2T_DCK4Yi5P8Sf00_wvlpJyL0kdoXptN0Vj0wbhN-hlySEtKANwAUqdtCD-r7WKaD_fVqWPXJx9_Qur66xo175tIIjhI6ttf6ZdjiDI/w87-h200/20231106_143022.jpeg" width="87" /></a></div>According to figures reported by fordauthority.com, the 2023 Lincoln Corsair jumped 28 percent for the third quarter with its 7,852 units sold, finishing second to the Lexus NX, which led the compact sales segment with a whopping 17,647 sold from July through September.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Lincoln Corsair still shows a decline in yearly totals of slightly less than 14 percent, thanks mostly to a production halt to correct some software issues with its digital instrument cluster, according to fordauthority.com.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">With 17,483 units sold, the 2023 Lincoln Corsair remains a solid fourth behind the NX, Buick Envision, and Volvo XC40 in the compact luxury SUV segment.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZq8o3m-l0zkU_F16Ew1Okbt40f8qB7AmxcjXUfKmT4vHBXaEmTULvQMtuN0WneooGb4pvpT5uBgcTo9I74AUgxmZCL3ZO0JK3phSCoSZKd_jkfXJb_Un7tgLZZwUpQVM1p10J2dR_glh6GLYKuCzxozyYZ4NkHuj0amhFz_uORqIKNsj84zuf_x0fiQ/s3045/20231106_141917.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1626" data-original-width="3045" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZq8o3m-l0zkU_F16Ew1Okbt40f8qB7AmxcjXUfKmT4vHBXaEmTULvQMtuN0WneooGb4pvpT5uBgcTo9I74AUgxmZCL3ZO0JK3phSCoSZKd_jkfXJb_Un7tgLZZwUpQVM1p10J2dR_glh6GLYKuCzxozyYZ4NkHuj0amhFz_uORqIKNsj84zuf_x0fiQ/w400-h215/20231106_141917.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Corsair debuted as a 2020 model to replace the MDX in the Lincoln lineup and has gone through a refreshing for 2023. (Kudos to Lincoln for abandoning the annoying trend toward alpha-numeric nomenclature among luxury automakers.)</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Lincoln Corsair was given styling tweaks that include a redesigned grille and new exterior lighting and wheels and, on the inside, a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen featuring Sync4 tech features and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLiv7CysT-FWxJkqrjyBKCwWk1hlVnAy7nn2QgMl0SqtwvlbhP662YF3FqxOvC47vLzrbEuXTo40RLDKfnctaLfNQgdAFYPtcdZPCZeTnn4c0aehO1NIguCu230NASxEA8sz4I4BtaOtH2-VHhPFP41rKUiAnO09-oAwfxSKhyphenhyphent3rwvROYKkzj5vsw0o/s2275/20231106_142112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1110" data-original-width="2275" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikLiv7CysT-FWxJkqrjyBKCwWk1hlVnAy7nn2QgMl0SqtwvlbhP662YF3FqxOvC47vLzrbEuXTo40RLDKfnctaLfNQgdAFYPtcdZPCZeTnn4c0aehO1NIguCu230NASxEA8sz4I4BtaOtH2-VHhPFP41rKUiAnO09-oAwfxSKhyphenhyphent3rwvROYKkzj5vsw0o/w400-h195/20231106_142112.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">But the big update is the availability of Active Glide, the first hands-free driving system offered in the segment, according to the company.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">“We want the drive experience to be even more effortless and personal,” Michael Sprague, North America director, Lincoln. said in a release, “and the new Corsair will deliver that with advanced technology and new features.”</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3Dm-3gK3KmX1tQXAz9Ozz6r4HXuZ7LTZIe9ssd7zNkzahAGskjJ1Nt6EB1hw5IRMTtm-xKDHMVCHyEvPK4pMU-OC-CT3jNjwgSaQx4ZJaeejShcYJUQzmcEyTRxS_JSokT4UDnHQU77OqKTGOBs2te97GCQrh2skm-3GfFs_JlXy9-7IRF0LlumuWkw/s2339/20231106_141716.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1582" data-original-width="2339" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3Dm-3gK3KmX1tQXAz9Ozz6r4HXuZ7LTZIe9ssd7zNkzahAGskjJ1Nt6EB1hw5IRMTtm-xKDHMVCHyEvPK4pMU-OC-CT3jNjwgSaQx4ZJaeejShcYJUQzmcEyTRxS_JSokT4UDnHQU77OqKTGOBs2te97GCQrh2skm-3GfFs_JlXy9-7IRF0LlumuWkw/w400-h270/20231106_141716.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Lincoln Corsair comes in three trim levels with the Grand Touring trim coming as a plug-in hybrid. Base and Reserve trims get a 2.4-liter, turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine that is rated at 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. (The 2.3-liter turbo 4 has been dropped.)</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard on the Base and Reserve trims while the Grand Touring PHEV comes with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigC1QhvA34c6td-C8mlcW8NNMqDrkf266jYadDEhj_jAVv5l9N_3q_pZ9ECfE_SRF_FWQDt6Won8J6yuSgQbnshj4Q1M6UBQgHWJx0dDexpBG4LhDldiJnhYKMvZ_0l9f8d6GEtaxMjHUkdlgDjkqNhPSRfcn4y3-kZ-Zxa0FiQFrphmfecFtmp_vg-HQ/s2934/20231107_150518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1542" data-original-width="2934" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigC1QhvA34c6td-C8mlcW8NNMqDrkf266jYadDEhj_jAVv5l9N_3q_pZ9ECfE_SRF_FWQDt6Won8J6yuSgQbnshj4Q1M6UBQgHWJx0dDexpBG4LhDldiJnhYKMvZ_0l9f8d6GEtaxMjHUkdlgDjkqNhPSRfcn4y3-kZ-Zxa0FiQFrphmfecFtmp_vg-HQ/w400-h210/20231107_150518.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Fuel mileage comes in at 21 miles-per-gallon city, 28 highway, and 24 combined for all-wheel versions like my test Reserve trim.. Front-wheel drive models have numbers of 22/30/25, according to the government.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Lincoln Corsair PHEV with its standard AWD earns numbers of 78 MPGe on electric driving and 33 mpg combined with the 2.5L 4-cylinder gas engine.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Here’s a huge bonus: the 2023 Lincoln Corsair runs on regular gas! </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJAXXCX5crqa08XBWijK-IoUcNoc4fzmEbzK8CZVJvN_qpht0Cb4qXuwDX0ruCiOwsg6zHG51CHJYVv2YUfKOxEUEx2I_udHryK2vqE3WGSwz5uu8YLiJAzXTp_YXVjRBsxj-xqbzK3dFNr0DQW36v6UIB_U-IkvYmf9hPRd2OCksZvJgwaH8D4esD6o/s2853/20231106_143105.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2673" data-original-width="2853" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJAXXCX5crqa08XBWijK-IoUcNoc4fzmEbzK8CZVJvN_qpht0Cb4qXuwDX0ruCiOwsg6zHG51CHJYVv2YUfKOxEUEx2I_udHryK2vqE3WGSwz5uu8YLiJAzXTp_YXVjRBsxj-xqbzK3dFNr0DQW36v6UIB_U-IkvYmf9hPRd2OCksZvJgwaH8D4esD6o/w200-h188/20231106_143105.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Every Corsair gets the suite of features from Lincoln’s CoPilot360 2.1 system that includes auto high beams, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, dynamic brake support, intersection assist, and post-collision breaking, lane-keeping alert, blind-spot assist, driver alert, road edge detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, rear cross-traffic braking, and rear parking assist.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Included on my test vehicle were rain-sensing wipers, a panoramic sunroof with power shades, heated and ventilated driver and front passenger seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad, a head-up display, active park assist, front parking aid, and rear parking sensors.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Options that boosted the starting MSRP ($45,75) to a final bottom line of $60,785 included 20-inch wheels instead of the standard 19s, premium leather seats, a roof rack, and a Jet Package that adds special design touches to the exterior. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNmHt5c8UX4ClIGipIA07Ho6Du_lsfqM7Wq160mbdNf2IgjLutv902ih2S2LWjcf9uh2YXKjAzuGjAfyKtEDCOBzdfLbx8CncdfBAqyqxPs8bR8234EWYYB1n51mF4OxKv_REt2mEF33PfCkTLnR9XpHvmQSskAWiydGkaZU9CmwvMdYhNCaHy8pG0rGY/s4080/20231107_150629.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3060" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNmHt5c8UX4ClIGipIA07Ho6Du_lsfqM7Wq160mbdNf2IgjLutv902ih2S2LWjcf9uh2YXKjAzuGjAfyKtEDCOBzdfLbx8CncdfBAqyqxPs8bR8234EWYYB1n51mF4OxKv_REt2mEF33PfCkTLnR9XpHvmQSskAWiydGkaZU9CmwvMdYhNCaHy8pG0rGY/w150-h200/20231107_150629.jpeg" width="150" /></a></div><b>What I liked about the 2023 Lincoln Corsair:</b> It may be the smallest of the four SUVs that Lincoln offers, but it is big enough to handle routine chores like runs to Costco. The exterior is nicely done, and the inside is comfortable and appealing. The Reserve trim comes with a long list of standard features. It cruises smoothly and quietly. Second row seats can be adjusted to offer either more legroom or more cargo space.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2023 Lincoln Corsair:</b> Some tech features can be tricky to get to, though overall the infotainment functions are not overly complicated. Took a while to find the button to disable the guidance I no longer needed.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2023 Lincoln Corsair? </b>Most definitely. You can get the base trim for under $40,000 though the Reserve would be the preferred choice. Compact SUVs like the Corsair are a much better choice for urban environs over larger SUVs.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJyHqDdXFkEJalO0UpUblt3_OzKMap73Rx7_sUwybfSOJywKLQoITOGw0gTtEhVId6XhpDvamcb5O4BqKtGLWWlkCGbE4fBJHRnFtvWHzva5y_lm9OzXy0VhWZeTJ7Zrj_pdOWWm4SwB3JssOJSH2dXxXeWoFPU0IbfxrA8-pbgh_KF2Kouq-jmsHIJVA/s2224/20231106_142557.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1503" data-original-width="2224" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJyHqDdXFkEJalO0UpUblt3_OzKMap73Rx7_sUwybfSOJywKLQoITOGw0gTtEhVId6XhpDvamcb5O4BqKtGLWWlkCGbE4fBJHRnFtvWHzva5y_lm9OzXy0VhWZeTJ7Zrj_pdOWWm4SwB3JssOJSH2dXxXeWoFPU0IbfxrA8-pbgh_KF2Kouq-jmsHIJVA/w640-h432/20231106_142557.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-74164595107226706812023-11-08T08:27:00.001-08:002023-11-08T08:27:40.857-08:002024 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE 450e 4MATIC<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGzoD1vdgUXyTUN4M5Dtk6P_s0mvhwQRnE1M2lJHA3QonqAfbaKc09rG0T4Olw1mwDwQl9IkVbEPzLw8OSGv8o6f9DBy71pOm7OBjhhJHJUxrL-pSlfBgjK6Do878tFcq4k_AF3RWZDXQLO8XSRo5PKpOmZooZBWRbBS1D14M898wdFyPJQawjFDi02M/s2293/20231027_105830.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1676" data-original-width="2293" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGzoD1vdgUXyTUN4M5Dtk6P_s0mvhwQRnE1M2lJHA3QonqAfbaKc09rG0T4Olw1mwDwQl9IkVbEPzLw8OSGv8o6f9DBy71pOm7OBjhhJHJUxrL-pSlfBgjK6Do878tFcq4k_AF3RWZDXQLO8XSRo5PKpOmZooZBWRbBS1D14M898wdFyPJQawjFDi02M/w400-h293/20231027_105830.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">NEW PLUG-IN MODEL RELIEVES RANGE ANXIETY FEARS IN ELECTRIFIED GLE CLASS</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">An aggressive Mercedes-Benz television ad campaign pushes its electric vehicles and plans to go all-electric by the end of this decade “where market conditions allow,” according to the Germany luxury automaker.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKzDyrkxFhenxmLikO2u5iv-UCrmFZdhQLKyL2pij6cNwQ8H-3kmq_AN8nxXbsQW1RlhvfeKvXof_YTYRA70szdHVDZdTbHhSNInOsro_eWDfnbJvkoI1WebhtW9mUcUosj0_DQZCa19kIrg775OMcs9zwf0hbphy_Z5izVtVjvyygo7Wl3Iv6b01ISeE/s1400/20231027_110423.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1396" data-original-width="1400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKzDyrkxFhenxmLikO2u5iv-UCrmFZdhQLKyL2pij6cNwQ8H-3kmq_AN8nxXbsQW1RlhvfeKvXof_YTYRA70szdHVDZdTbHhSNInOsro_eWDfnbJvkoI1WebhtW9mUcUosj0_DQZCa19kIrg775OMcs9zwf0hbphy_Z5izVtVjvyygo7Wl3Iv6b01ISeE/w200-h200/20231027_110423.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>But if a bit of range anxiety is holding you back — or you often take trips that extend past the typical range of today’s all-electric models, Mercedes has the solution.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The plug-in version of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e 4MATIC offers the convenience of extended mileage when your battery is depleted with a gasoline engine taking over seamlessly.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">And you still have the convenience and frugality of electric driving. The plug-in (or PHEV) goes about 48 miles before that gas engine kicks in which should cover most of your daily driving chores.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKtrs-u9P4JZFae_WOPrLTsWOfCFB16DMca3bPQG9_t6FBLw1OBlXO6s4CusHbD3DzUT3WD9C0Q5XvDtUii5c7ziZvMhvBlXTC3sVImXho74o99uQQZ-GfxpvniUlTn-gDXzYKtvFMjgv45H4ZBW-Lg45TV9md6Mw4eJfcagXjQAEv5KNQSUSEDRtB4B8/s3152/20231027_105457.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1691" data-original-width="3152" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKtrs-u9P4JZFae_WOPrLTsWOfCFB16DMca3bPQG9_t6FBLw1OBlXO6s4CusHbD3DzUT3WD9C0Q5XvDtUii5c7ziZvMhvBlXTC3sVImXho74o99uQQZ-GfxpvniUlTn-gDXzYKtvFMjgv45H4ZBW-Lg45TV9md6Mw4eJfcagXjQAEv5KNQSUSEDRtB4B8/w400-h216/20231027_105457.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged gas engine pu<br />ts out 248 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque by itself. The electric motor is rated at 134 hp but an impressive 325 pound-feet of torque.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Combined horsepower and torque checks in at 381 hp and 479 lb.-ft, which scoots the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e 4MATIC from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, according to the company.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHNwObiwKKrBzJte9HZhzVZjrzKl2NMw-f_FgFF8GuKjIsb0Vo1YM9i-of4nIzN0USYl9N2M_FYUr7C98Bj2uhWXJT-vGpzIa7dAvjjAeDEd9zzJF54qpLVD3tefguyWL2pSLJbdsFmr9eVC75ii7O30XMQUJaSJ0R43q_vqllXoQOgAWSEzI9dk0FfA/s2707/20231027_110025.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1631" data-original-width="2707" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHNwObiwKKrBzJte9HZhzVZjrzKl2NMw-f_FgFF8GuKjIsb0Vo1YM9i-of4nIzN0USYl9N2M_FYUr7C98Bj2uhWXJT-vGpzIa7dAvjjAeDEd9zzJF54qpLVD3tefguyWL2pSLJbdsFmr9eVC75ii7O30XMQUJaSJ0R43q_vqllXoQOgAWSEzI9dk0FfA/w400-h241/20231027_110025.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That’s about a half-second slower than the gas-only GLE 450 4MATIC but over a second quicker than the base GLE 350 4MATIC with its 4-cylinder engine.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A 9-speed shiftable automatic is the standard transmission, earning the 2024 Mercedes GLE 450e 4MATIC an EPA rating of 58 MPGe or 24 miles-per-gallon operating with gasoline only. (Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive also is standard.)</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP2GWbzYl2_0vshtcMWJGRKj3x48Vj9-JipAguN9FXu6QkN9Sk5adKoJAZgQNkNnVXDLbsddQPEh_BZ-q2LWon9lKhYLBxUh5oL9_X2pSMY4L-57vVsQzU0WN0pR2Iho_O8Z8rLOEdJXrEvnfvhZZTX3OOjijYfEtlLVB0bCW7mNNNn9kkKes9jAYefdc/s2595/20231027_105226.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1866" data-original-width="2595" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP2GWbzYl2_0vshtcMWJGRKj3x48Vj9-JipAguN9FXu6QkN9Sk5adKoJAZgQNkNnVXDLbsddQPEh_BZ-q2LWon9lKhYLBxUh5oL9_X2pSMY4L-57vVsQzU0WN0pR2Iho_O8Z8rLOEdJXrEvnfvhZZTX3OOjijYfEtlLVB0bCW7mNNNn9kkKes9jAYefdc/w400-h289/20231027_105226.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The government estimates annual fuel cost at $1,700 and fuel savings of $1,250 over a 5-year period.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">In addition to the hybrid drivetrain, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e 4MATIC benefits from all the updates the GLE lineup receives for 2024, including a new front bumper and grille, modified rear bumper, and restyled wheels for the exterior. Inside is the second generation of the company’s MBUX infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERmi_HUbDdydR7dzHGPFkzOm_ERx4msF94boG2Gwn58slI81fh93y82moUfqwC8brklPN_34SvEnJVYQ5j6I8hbKncR1jM32nVrsWH_pgvYcbENSapjCwcXjODEKt-qXoZPJ_Q12CayCXWXATpcsetGKa5k32IJdLDud4wRmmdYROQw0jf8AbD_aDa_w/s4080/20231031_174010.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3060" data-original-width="4080" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERmi_HUbDdydR7dzHGPFkzOm_ERx4msF94boG2Gwn58slI81fh93y82moUfqwC8brklPN_34SvEnJVYQ5j6I8hbKncR1jM32nVrsWH_pgvYcbENSapjCwcXjODEKt-qXoZPJ_Q12CayCXWXATpcsetGKa5k32IJdLDud4wRmmdYROQw0jf8AbD_aDa_w/w400-h300/20231031_174010.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard features include dual-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch widescreen digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch widescreen touchscreen display with navigation, a center console touchpad to operate infotainment functions, “Hey, Mercedes” voice control, heated front seats with lumbar support, selectable ambient lighting, power sunroof, LED headlamps and taillamps, and safety features like Attention Assist, active brake assist, parking assist with surround view, and blind-spot assist.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That’s all covered by a starting MSRP of $69,500, but you’re not likely to get off that “cheap.” Want special paint like the cardinal red metallic on my test 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e 4MATIC? Add on another $1,750. A beige and black leather interior adds $1,650.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbtIbo6REDGuEOqkgOODNrzzpI7Tqatvwa3rHXTHj3tn1sUzO1JrPtR96O6ROrkbxyihO3BQlI1r8qS-NKP7BjHWNjDgkZdiOoCKQ3rDvbWEa4oWiRR3iXEQZVE2sy1CiEt2PyKgDElP-zzOMh8kxrTkUUvypy30EtqdhEIFwxf1iP8Mjbd0RFV1jJUTM/s2462/20231031_174010%202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1633" data-original-width="2462" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbtIbo6REDGuEOqkgOODNrzzpI7Tqatvwa3rHXTHj3tn1sUzO1JrPtR96O6ROrkbxyihO3BQlI1r8qS-NKP7BjHWNjDgkZdiOoCKQ3rDvbWEa4oWiRR3iXEQZVE2sy1CiEt2PyKgDElP-zzOMh8kxrTkUUvypy30EtqdhEIFwxf1iP8Mjbd0RFV1jJUTM/w200-h133/20231031_174010%202.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Other packages like Driver Assistance (active lane change assist, brake assist with cross traffic function, Pre-Safe Plus, etc.), Pinnacle Trim (premium Burmeister Sound, head-up display, heated/cooled front cupholders, etc.), a panoramic sunroof, 19-inch 10-spoke wheels, a power adjustable second row, soft close doors, and illuminated aluminum running boards ran the bottom line of my test model to $86,770 including the $1,150 destination and delivery fee.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I liked about the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e 4MATIC: </b>The plush, spacious cabin seats five comfortably and provides a quiet, smooth ride. Cargo space is generous though the optional third-row seat would seriously cut into the available 33.3 cubic feet. All-electric range is outstanding for a PHEV, and Edmunds.com coaxed 60 miles on its test drive over the advertised 48. The surround view camera is invaluable when maneuvering in tight spaces.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e 4MATIC:</b> The touchpad that can be used to adjust infotainment functions can be touched accidentally and make a switch you don’t really want. Steering wheel buttons are.suited for the the fingers of a 5-year-old. Fortunately, functions also work off the “Hey, Mercedes” voice command..</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would buy the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e 4MATIC?</b> I would go for this over the fully electric vehicle (which isn’t offered on this vehicle) because of the gasoline engine to relieve range anxiety. The downside is that many of the desirable features come as options that run up the final total. That said, with the starting MSRP for the PHEV is the same as for the gas-powered V6 GLE 450 version, it pays to go with the former.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwqX9V3t2hBDYsAlBU_0ZdaOzTVvYI8RThbweYagImeZGiRvyE88j_B-4CMTGZ4Q1fAkLAxHtDYSNsqx1xraMYTtfYUHV1IjR9X7dcz6idrMs3uI9CQM7rNCySyyXa-yhgKzuHgmOGsM348p73qsHIP6wboyAJenvsKiPDYcjJTtXIhJyCaFkGugAsf8/s2668/20231027_110341.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2089" data-original-width="2668" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwqX9V3t2hBDYsAlBU_0ZdaOzTVvYI8RThbweYagImeZGiRvyE88j_B-4CMTGZ4Q1fAkLAxHtDYSNsqx1xraMYTtfYUHV1IjR9X7dcz6idrMs3uI9CQM7rNCySyyXa-yhgKzuHgmOGsM348p73qsHIP6wboyAJenvsKiPDYcjJTtXIhJyCaFkGugAsf8/w640-h504/20231027_110341.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-38328462932188700322023-11-02T08:25:00.002-07:002023-11-02T08:25:42.760-07:002023 FORD BRONCO SPORT<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhve1fYVjZ8H6OUF2U2oRV1Q_gYwguymUAFpcGckF5GCE5yw6jgk_cbOHJlO049Gc33SWmfNNCgxQFG35i6ycU4pmO0yFVV5uNMqPdWcRkxB4yMAsdJy34k1Ad4assq-ap-OG-RDKwAxcxcv1gyMX6xCfj10iTifhEvUzYZ0T7HW3vTSYp2A0zHs45aSaU/s2308/20231023_174516.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1657" data-original-width="2308" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhve1fYVjZ8H6OUF2U2oRV1Q_gYwguymUAFpcGckF5GCE5yw6jgk_cbOHJlO049Gc33SWmfNNCgxQFG35i6ycU4pmO0yFVV5uNMqPdWcRkxB4yMAsdJy34k1Ad4assq-ap-OG-RDKwAxcxcv1gyMX6xCfj10iTifhEvUzYZ0T7HW3vTSYp2A0zHs45aSaU/w400-h289/20231023_174516.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">FORD BRONCO SPORT TAILORED </span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">FOR OFF-ROADING ENTHUSIASTS</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Ford Bronco Sport debuted as a 2021 model to give buyers a more affordable and compact option than its larger Bronco sibling that revived the nameplate the same year to end a 15-year production hiatus.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCIza7dVnnCgoRMosM1F4-E_xFftug81JBwVEsYAzGOqQikoEeKOXA4b0enAL9AmMarc3snEqmRTb5-x0O4potz0a-qvPikQqkdVZj36w9KuCp4k55C4f7GXemsZDLrTn0OMgkbiledetzgpSTRnMxD2ZtdvdIOnPeNBRhGm39ENgcHmTNatmzo-bx5Cw/s1059/20231023_180201.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="1059" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCIza7dVnnCgoRMosM1F4-E_xFftug81JBwVEsYAzGOqQikoEeKOXA4b0enAL9AmMarc3snEqmRTb5-x0O4potz0a-qvPikQqkdVZj36w9KuCp4k55C4f7GXemsZDLrTn0OMgkbiledetzgpSTRnMxD2ZtdvdIOnPeNBRhGm39ENgcHmTNatmzo-bx5Cw/w200-h86/20231023_180201.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Initially offered in five trims including a First Edition model, the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport also gets a new trim level with Heritage and Heritage Limited models joining Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, and Badlands in the portfolio.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">It is especially targeted for off-roading ventures but is comfortable in city environs as well.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJf1pOeUCUkAzwSGL75ms6jQMIOglLycd10X4eKic_OaVMhUWkUvB9K15Pwxk_vJQ8CRKWy7U0OmVCdVwgbcr2Ap5leVwnOelNhiHKNMIISFgWqVRBgGpLBZPKFl0kkyGDA3_X-yUo-XyXRQ6mK65sqpV2CxeRY9R9aEjrozC6FTLMSdwqhQNZVtTirA/s3629/20231023_174918.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1845" data-original-width="3629" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJf1pOeUCUkAzwSGL75ms6jQMIOglLycd10X4eKic_OaVMhUWkUvB9K15Pwxk_vJQ8CRKWy7U0OmVCdVwgbcr2Ap5leVwnOelNhiHKNMIISFgWqVRBgGpLBZPKFl0kkyGDA3_X-yUo-XyXRQ6mK65sqpV2CxeRY9R9aEjrozC6FTLMSdwqhQNZVtTirA/w400-h204/20231023_174918.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, and Heritage models get a turbocharged 3-cylinder engine while the Heritage Limited, which this review is base on, and Badland versions get the optional 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The larger engine boosts horsepower and torque to 250 hp and 275 pound-feet over the smaller’s 181/190 numbers so it’s worthwhile stretching your budget if you are able.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm3nVBb9QBMFr7Em4RR40XA_a_zb0sTlaCm7CMRCv3ZIr7UzaZcjjBdo1V3aa66mZYI4MUfZ9J172S6fukwO0y6p6sxxwhUeKkE5nKCNm4G-RmJe-bElzw8odEBgFuEJaaYfOnFb3MJBR7Qsx7yWEwf1N1Hzu0RAyC9Qe3MR7J1xNVB84ZvfUnhuqomUI/s3810/20231023_174643.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2140" data-original-width="3810" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm3nVBb9QBMFr7Em4RR40XA_a_zb0sTlaCm7CMRCv3ZIr7UzaZcjjBdo1V3aa66mZYI4MUfZ9J172S6fukwO0y6p6sxxwhUeKkE5nKCNm4G-RmJe-bElzw8odEBgFuEJaaYfOnFb3MJBR7Qsx7yWEwf1N1Hzu0RAyC9Qe3MR7J1xNVB84ZvfUnhuqomUI/w400-h225/20231023_174643.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is standard.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The government puts fuel mileage at 21 miles-per-gallon city, 26 highway, and 23 combined for the 4-cylinder, which makes it only slightly thirstier than the smaller 3-banger (25/28/26).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ETtbyyzKbRINCsKqQp6VEmuK3SG8jmju8aDn_rJmAEJHklJX5_WCZN0hqb3RelV_NjE6NlGjp8IvAkZKmqjlk5Q2RhpLAxI6uZM8B2XB3VE-t1K2wjVeTTYZvusIf73nuuFvcPifa9cAstofQOJo1tF_W5bAWXZ02PIsBI3hsbzYZIaw4HmrQnSrDzM/s3800/20231023_174812.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2517" data-original-width="3800" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ETtbyyzKbRINCsKqQp6VEmuK3SG8jmju8aDn_rJmAEJHklJX5_WCZN0hqb3RelV_NjE6NlGjp8IvAkZKmqjlk5Q2RhpLAxI6uZM8B2XB3VE-t1K2wjVeTTYZvusIf73nuuFvcPifa9cAstofQOJo1tF_W5bAWXZ02PIsBI3hsbzYZIaw4HmrQnSrDzM/w400-h266/20231023_174812.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Ford Bronc Sport Heritage Limited has a nicely designed interior with leather/synthetic leather upholstery and lots of standard convenience features.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">These include Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of features like navigation, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot alert and lane-keeping assist, and the FordPass Connect system that adds remote start and recall notifications among other alerts.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dVN8TLLGPMXbpUee64IoO1i604LtQ7GGutjKgyehieChWV4C-CsudVW_yJad9qfCUAGmZAOR1VbyvQb2SRFOJHRHE13q_FwEKvm6rZ7T4508L04XYbx0n22UMfZH9LWSEOOwkDDNtlTnMr3mW4uXKSP5Hs_7ulMSzYDQrMMaDCGvPAEGGpzHvdIqGu8/s3655/20231023_180012.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1950" data-original-width="3655" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dVN8TLLGPMXbpUee64IoO1i604LtQ7GGutjKgyehieChWV4C-CsudVW_yJad9qfCUAGmZAOR1VbyvQb2SRFOJHRHE13q_FwEKvm6rZ7T4508L04XYbx0n22UMfZH9LWSEOOwkDDNtlTnMr3mW4uXKSP5Hs_7ulMSzYDQrMMaDCGvPAEGGpzHvdIqGu8/w400-h215/20231023_180012.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Interior features include rubberized flooring and cargo floor (handy after adventures on muddy trails), cruise and audio controls, a 110-volt outlet, under-seat storage, tilt-and-telescoping steering column, an 8-inch display screen with app links,, an illuminated entry system, and USB ports.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">An easy fill capless fuel filler, LED foglights, rear liftgate glass with wiper, LED headlights and taillamps, unique side badging, bash plates and tow hooks, and a unique white front grille with distinctive red “Bronco” lettering are among other standard features.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqPY7-c38LWSKUyYZJ0p4PK_xLpdqFHiQkIilZlNuGfwzwBazO29BXQinbhRoI4T6q79HxMvh0AuWisxfMrkxY8_Ig6mB43FgfBm4pWs7SCwUJN7B92Z9hqtHl522AjpSg9rCoGfxr1GXWRqH7BM_B4gWxiTreEUSPt6ynaPLNemhYPdWq5jfxz8jfyA/s2095/20231023_180045.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2095" data-original-width="1278" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqPY7-c38LWSKUyYZJ0p4PK_xLpdqFHiQkIilZlNuGfwzwBazO29BXQinbhRoI4T6q79HxMvh0AuWisxfMrkxY8_Ig6mB43FgfBm4pWs7SCwUJN7B92Z9hqtHl522AjpSg9rCoGfxr1GXWRqH7BM_B4gWxiTreEUSPt6ynaPLNemhYPdWq5jfxz8jfyA/w122-h200/20231023_180045.jpeg" width="122" /></a></div>Keyless entry and push-button start gets you under way quickly and smoothly, and paddle shifters give you the option of manual gear selection</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Among “no charge” offerings on my test 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Heritage Limited were the Robin’s Egg Blue paint scheme, rear parking sensors, wireless charging pad, dual zone climate control, HD radio with 10 speakers, remote start, power and a power moonroof.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">All told that rang the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Heritage Limited in at $46,400 including the $1,595 destination and delivery charge. That’s a pretty good jump from the under $30,000 starting price for the base trim.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HU32drnCcDTH3GyNE6Wsygw2U5jvmjnFHtuZ4mEPWOEpuxBWDYZTe0zoFAtrp3x5CvrdjI8fRPREfcFqzmuGzA7hTwzPA9vF4rBWBOuKkLH76DfJ5I2syaM8EAK0VAGMsVP67C3hyphenhyphenwXFE8bbweABOhQ0f7Pz8vSUtBlstEkd5Y9EvxbUxHNUX1iSV5Y/s3896/20231023_175009.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1219" data-original-width="3896" height="63" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HU32drnCcDTH3GyNE6Wsygw2U5jvmjnFHtuZ4mEPWOEpuxBWDYZTe0zoFAtrp3x5CvrdjI8fRPREfcFqzmuGzA7hTwzPA9vF4rBWBOuKkLH76DfJ5I2syaM8EAK0VAGMsVP67C3hyphenhyphenwXFE8bbweABOhQ0f7Pz8vSUtBlstEkd5Y9EvxbUxHNUX1iSV5Y/w200-h63/20231023_175009.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2023 Fort Bronco Sport Heritage Limited: </b>The 4-cylinder engine has plenty of pep for daily driving. The interior is roomy, and the infotainment functions are user-friendly. Overall, the vehicle is well-equipped, making it easy to avoid options that add to an already hefty starting MSRP. There is plenty of room for storage behind the backseat (32.5 cubic feet) and it more than doubles (65.2) with the second-row folded.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Heritage Limited:</b> Fuel economy trails that of most of its competitors. The front seat offers plenty of legroom (42.4 inches) but the back is a bit snug (36.9 inches). It may have been the shoes I was wearing that caused it, but my foot had a tendency to slip off the accelerator pedal, which is on the small side.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Heritage Limited?</b> I’m not fond of the Robin’s Egg Blue exterior but North Carolina Tar Heels fans no doubt would love it. The off-road capability is wasted on me not because I don’t get little opportunity to hit the trail. This and the Everglades edition deserve a look if you are seeking off-pavement adventures. Production lives up to its “limited” moniker with under 2,000 in production so the Badlands model likely works out as the default model if off-roading is your primary desire.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8TxWlBq-oClfZu8vgIsuMzAXAvmaR3eDZrmSaDcoB3dFC6ya4Al3pl2aUG51PodKHJtMpgOhc2liUNS_Jl9AaCa2ibT5_u9bw658-3-i7qBDga2GUpGx0uCvd_Sskn0zkvgQgjSlhv-p0AQc-xnuNkZ67QIK07f36ipOsqU55v4EqCS_fpse9AR8KyjI/s2440/20231023_175227.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1404" data-original-width="2440" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8TxWlBq-oClfZu8vgIsuMzAXAvmaR3eDZrmSaDcoB3dFC6ya4Al3pl2aUG51PodKHJtMpgOhc2liUNS_Jl9AaCa2ibT5_u9bw658-3-i7qBDga2GUpGx0uCvd_Sskn0zkvgQgjSlhv-p0AQc-xnuNkZ67QIK07f36ipOsqU55v4EqCS_fpse9AR8KyjI/w640-h370/20231023_175227.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-39441401695855039662023-10-30T09:58:00.001-07:002023-10-30T09:58:31.860-07:00<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpiLcE5u9ZHa4WmpEjB2BNvkspMJKzc6gP11ZjVU5suvOd5RO0Jhe6qJmjHUtWXE_WaEiQwB39n5z9hfjw0OmrrJmzbn2QfR8g0eLdQHyp6uXQoQqjJKSsUjTThT9fIte1NQYA9ch6nafcjjamUxSqVGlS-0iHgwnlqo-IDGJEPuQ4xMupP81VgIQ14gk/s2885/DSCN0511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1691" data-original-width="2885" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpiLcE5u9ZHa4WmpEjB2BNvkspMJKzc6gP11ZjVU5suvOd5RO0Jhe6qJmjHUtWXE_WaEiQwB39n5z9hfjw0OmrrJmzbn2QfR8g0eLdQHyp6uXQoQqjJKSsUjTThT9fIte1NQYA9ch6nafcjjamUxSqVGlS-0iHgwnlqo-IDGJEPuQ4xMupP81VgIQ14gk/w400-h235/DSCN0511.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">FORD OFFERS HANDS-FREE DRIVING WITH BLUE CRUISE IN LIGHTNING EV PICKUP </span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">For quite some time now I have taken a both-hands-on-the-wheel approach when it comes to driving. I have more confidence when my hands are in the 3 o’clock-9-o’clock positions in most conditions, taking advantage of convenient nodules some models have on steering wheels to help me place my thumbs on the wheel.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFC5-XCp7wwLbPCWU7dgJBu-FX9Qa8dHZRzmMG5VcKFcCifdRI22jNbr42VtJ1G4fZyYxkwzKL3FsIbQQy_zoJd2dqRDITow1agocKgxLnlzMG2k0eARTr_A8HL_ekVX4u4c7HDiWWW1s4rY8WZAPBk6AA0MI9iAIDXKbmXk7NckZjLLIIbb9eqTZ1ly0/s2244/DSCN0528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1010" data-original-width="2244" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFC5-XCp7wwLbPCWU7dgJBu-FX9Qa8dHZRzmMG5VcKFcCifdRI22jNbr42VtJ1G4fZyYxkwzKL3FsIbQQy_zoJd2dqRDITow1agocKgxLnlzMG2k0eARTr_A8HL_ekVX4u4c7HDiWWW1s4rY8WZAPBk6AA0MI9iAIDXKbmXk7NckZjLLIIbb9eqTZ1ly0/w200-h91/DSCN0528.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>It used to be the 2-10 position was recommended, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration made the change because the 2-10 position can be dangerous in vehicles with smaller steering wheels and equipped with air bags. NHTSA actually recommends positions between 7 and 8 o’clock for your left hand and 4 and 5 for your right, but I like to move them up a little on the wheel.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">With this in mind, I have been reluctant to see what “hands-free” driving is all about, though it is a feature often highlighted in car and truck ads you see on TV these days. The only time I ever thought about taking my hands off the wheel was if I was in a race car headed for an unavoidable crash into a race track wall, which is a situation I never will be in.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzyocskvzn2Kmi9yBCfugVwwWjlWCHVlUh_ismyqSLe_F0HcMB_YZbHxXgj0I3e1L9iI-KMORdBjRG4qP5JQFzX_FSjzHFuy8TQrWAxAXyMif7QxYQnXnmRotOIpHhYYX0TDXlDfmN6RtdGbvX0Un5-Mz_Wu3nraN8SJVM5eR9z1ZiPqrfvel7j_33yg/s3289/DSCN0501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1606" data-original-width="3289" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzyocskvzn2Kmi9yBCfugVwwWjlWCHVlUh_ismyqSLe_F0HcMB_YZbHxXgj0I3e1L9iI-KMORdBjRG4qP5JQFzX_FSjzHFuy8TQrWAxAXyMif7QxYQnXnmRotOIpHhYYX0TDXlDfmN6RtdGbvX0Un5-Mz_Wu3nraN8SJVM5eR9z1ZiPqrfvel7j_33yg/w400-h195/DSCN0501.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">But I decided I should check out the hands-free mode on the Ford F-150 Lightning I was cruising in on Florida’s Turnpike recently. The turnpike is one of the divided highways that Ford’s “Blue Cruise” marks for operation. Interstate highways are other common hands-free zones across the U.S.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My reaction?</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">It’s a bit nerve-wracking at 70 mph. No, allow me to amend that. A lot nerve-wracking.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhqSywuFPPEHL45mGaBqZJTbfk1E8ABPIlDKWRcxp5Ovc9_bPVQGi724-NkXu7plnlnK3I0yu-3oSZU0HQOawKvzb3o3RT1CO339MqEp274AwbtGesWytlK1pb8P2UV3dUEh4y7XOToR4vDWr7MXeooqpfniw6cWxkXRpOtA8sQpwE3pG0CClPTRxwMQ/s3316/DSCN0506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1498" data-original-width="3316" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhqSywuFPPEHL45mGaBqZJTbfk1E8ABPIlDKWRcxp5Ovc9_bPVQGi724-NkXu7plnlnK3I0yu-3oSZU0HQOawKvzb3o3RT1CO339MqEp274AwbtGesWytlK1pb8P2UV3dUEh4y7XOToR4vDWr7MXeooqpfniw6cWxkXRpOtA8sQpwE3pG0CClPTRxwMQ/w400-h183/DSCN0506.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Of course, unlike in TV commercials I have seen promoting the hands-free experience I did not clap my hands in rhythmic cadence but kept them lightly on the steering wheel.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That is recommended anyway for safety purposes and it became immediately clear why when I was confronted by several traffic barrels indicating a lane closure. I simply re-affirmed my grip on the steering wheel and smoothly guided the Ford F-150 Lightning into the adjacent lane.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHXNSPgFqvuAMZQyv_mV4dY3dGgKVNvVTzTNRcuJMuHRUYM8nLACl9jAzk5zx2hfLJPQysrrRqp6-J69OxS5_nqa2veMJBPNMTnjvYVIHmnszClBOtNoFnmcD-ABX_nlBcRVb9O2SMaS8difuJTs3E-S7DmJ5K1A7KpU0R1fAzMI4YijWvDIhNPbbobz0/s3205/DSCN0496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2163" data-original-width="3205" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHXNSPgFqvuAMZQyv_mV4dY3dGgKVNvVTzTNRcuJMuHRUYM8nLACl9jAzk5zx2hfLJPQysrrRqp6-J69OxS5_nqa2veMJBPNMTnjvYVIHmnszClBOtNoFnmcD-ABX_nlBcRVb9O2SMaS8difuJTs3E-S7DmJ5K1A7KpU0R1fAzMI4YijWvDIhNPbbobz0/w400-h270/DSCN0496.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Then I turned off the system and took over responsibility myself. Hands-free driving may seem cool, but I’m not ready for it yet.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">I covered the basics for the Ford F-150 Lightning in a review posted a year ago but in simple terms it is an all-electric version of Ford’s best-selling full-sized F-Series pickup. Ford was not the first to come out with an EV pickup but it had the advantage of already having the best-selling model on the market when it did.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbHpfWBQkJxSj2Unlrhc3Jn28ZhmfQfWzzhoBQl-IDEGfUP4nrPe40pOYvjPiA5Qf2A6VyCNqtHCFlf6JOb1qb2LZrxNPo-CPNh-8BQ1NE6vopxNLbyc9yf41ELpeaHsqh07TVrJKQl4fJjSN4ZBuGeDUENeB1_DSPvc8CFC2J245ACf6ZuAX1GyHDLw/s3776/20231017_164218.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1831" data-original-width="3776" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbHpfWBQkJxSj2Unlrhc3Jn28ZhmfQfWzzhoBQl-IDEGfUP4nrPe40pOYvjPiA5Qf2A6VyCNqtHCFlf6JOb1qb2LZrxNPo-CPNh-8BQ1NE6vopxNLbyc9yf41ELpeaHsqh07TVrJKQl4fJjSN4ZBuGeDUENeB1_DSPvc8CFC2J245ACf6ZuAX1GyHDLw/w400-h194/20231017_164218.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Ford F-150 Lightning was popular at its introduction but with the news that Tesla was going to bring its Cybertruck EV to market later this year sales took a sharp drop. Ford confirmed a Wall Street Journal report that it was cutting a production shift of 700 workers for the F-150 Lightning at its Dearborn plant.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning isn’t all that much different from the debut 2022 model though driving range with the standard battery getting a slight bump up to 240 miles.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">New Platinum Black and Flash editions are being added for 2024. This brief updade, however, is based on the original Lightning. Flash models get the extended ranger battery pack (320 miles) that boosts horsepower and torque to 580 hp and 775 pound-feet, respectively, resulting in a zero-to-60 mph clocking of 3.2 seconds.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmLQg7KepDcyH0lCdb1biHBL95-fH8HuGVuoH_A3Z5VihfSIE3nFGgV6gnyCgJIGVXvBBvZidFLVK1DZMztxMWMUsCxiB76TQu-DknezrMo10F56eV6bBhyphenhyphen5HAV6-B5FRBb7yPagEswruTo9lYYmKjxMgKAN214o7d5zZjROIZrBxkmexcA5yFHM08PM/s2531/DSCN0526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2046" data-original-width="2531" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmLQg7KepDcyH0lCdb1biHBL95-fH8HuGVuoH_A3Z5VihfSIE3nFGgV6gnyCgJIGVXvBBvZidFLVK1DZMztxMWMUsCxiB76TQu-DknezrMo10F56eV6bBhyphenhyphen5HAV6-B5FRBb7yPagEswruTo9lYYmKjxMgKAN214o7d5zZjROIZrBxkmexcA5yFHM08PM/w200-h163/DSCN0526.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">The Lightning is sold only with a Crew Cab with a 5.5-foot bed that has a handy retractable step-up for easy access.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">MSRP for the new 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Platinum Black trim approaches six figures but only 2,000 are scheduled for production, according to reports. The Flash model starts at just under $70,000. Base Pro models start at just over $50,000.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I liked about the Ford F-150 Lightning:</b> Running boards are standard on a the Platinum trim to ease access to the spacious, comfortable cabin. Throttle response is immediate, making the Lightning ever quicker that the F-150 Raptor R. Trunk space in the front is handy for smaller cargo loads. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpo6MoZo6qZaGCPkS0oACuumnMYFjnEOt0Q1Aie0FcZ_nRo4mFA2WB7RYeqtf5e0RizjNV6XtN56dCA-defNk9RwvX20X81vfVUUrCqZDGuZlHDJLN_urXidXWjAvUq6_Xc2FgCli8OsVzCr5IoMcpPD_ik_qfOfCrxGSO6c90qMJ95q9Axg6DOcAuQF8/s2060/20231017_164143.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2060" data-original-width="1550" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpo6MoZo6qZaGCPkS0oACuumnMYFjnEOt0Q1Aie0FcZ_nRo4mFA2WB7RYeqtf5e0RizjNV6XtN56dCA-defNk9RwvX20X81vfVUUrCqZDGuZlHDJLN_urXidXWjAvUq6_Xc2FgCli8OsVzCr5IoMcpPD_ik_qfOfCrxGSO6c90qMJ95q9Axg6DOcAuQF8/w151-h200/20231017_164143.jpeg" width="151" /></a></div>What I didn’t like about the Ford F-150 Lightning:</b> There’s a fairly steep learning curve with the numerous tech features. It can be distracting to work your way through the various modes to get to the function you need. I did not experience this personally but range is considerably reduced when towing.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the Ford F-150 Lightning?</b> All you want from a Ford F-150 comes in an all-electric drivetrain that does have the usual drawbacks when it comes to charging times and towing. Anyone having to do long-distance towing on a regular basis are advised to go with the usual gas-powered pickup.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWJSzqBuFNupU57O7b8EaqgHPntdLmZo4MpU-vHkrzWAflMTnMaLahqg0imNwksAiRXsT4ItMWNluJs4-GTjVNseQeulYSKI5_hsRV4zETujkxkUXbCtt9KezPEz_aXS6Y2vrIEz1yR70Xvj40BzWZd3wNPOURGl2kv-CcHQTlKqFq4avCqnU4s5zeI4/s2651/DSCN0518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1743" data-original-width="2651" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWJSzqBuFNupU57O7b8EaqgHPntdLmZo4MpU-vHkrzWAflMTnMaLahqg0imNwksAiRXsT4ItMWNluJs4-GTjVNseQeulYSKI5_hsRV4zETujkxkUXbCtt9KezPEz_aXS6Y2vrIEz1yR70Xvj40BzWZd3wNPOURGl2kv-CcHQTlKqFq4avCqnU4s5zeI4/w640-h422/DSCN0518.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-47610389292798383542023-10-18T17:10:00.002-07:002023-10-18T17:10:52.036-07:002023 CHEVROLET COLORADO ZR2<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFBhgWEaiQLzIOa0r5x0QXVCyhmNRVf9F5tOpN9QfBI4grCvQWdHjabeckcUZSw3RI8A801-q22SD5bqDoTKCjLr-1h0NPXWMO-L8shsK7KW5s02zq16mlj_IdntOSj97kWjim9HxewULlRJercqsEXYMFKlbqoxlUPC2uiEowobaUPf_tMJ7hND-z-s/s3180/DSCN0423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1734" data-original-width="3180" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFBhgWEaiQLzIOa0r5x0QXVCyhmNRVf9F5tOpN9QfBI4grCvQWdHjabeckcUZSw3RI8A801-q22SD5bqDoTKCjLr-1h0NPXWMO-L8shsK7KW5s02zq16mlj_IdntOSj97kWjim9HxewULlRJercqsEXYMFKlbqoxlUPC2uiEowobaUPf_tMJ7hND-z-s/w400-h218/DSCN0423.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">REDESIGNED COLORADO PACKS <br />MANY FEATURES IN LARGER PACKAGE</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Still slightly smaller than its sibling Silverado, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado has grown some since its introduction as a compact pickup for the 2004 model year.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxHEPCEtAbkBECLcBF6HRK8ehCWqLbzsizov8rFR6H3uu4NegnbaG_uni-C-Q23W42qS4IDtEj34Gf5iKjNZv-8mQRdj_TIP6mCPHnXxArn4UmoUjYBmNWnO2URCT2VI9-bd5WwpytRvCZFgJkuPpLXZTQojtDfryxVNGlGg9LG7dawYaA-0Ri7Itftw/s2690/DSCN0484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1086" data-original-width="2690" height="81" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxHEPCEtAbkBECLcBF6HRK8ehCWqLbzsizov8rFR6H3uu4NegnbaG_uni-C-Q23W42qS4IDtEj34Gf5iKjNZv-8mQRdj_TIP6mCPHnXxArn4UmoUjYBmNWnO2URCT2VI9-bd5WwpytRvCZFgJkuPpLXZTQojtDfryxVNGlGg9LG7dawYaA-0Ri7Itftw/w200-h81/DSCN0484.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>A midsize truck now, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado is more of a work horse than those of earlier generations and is a good option for the budget conscious who need more capability than a compact offers but can’t afford, or want, a bulky full-size pickup.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnLO7XCOhW3i_xPbB-AW-TOeQfo18ZKWCwPDEroAPKqBu6gXhw3opL4ydz-3JEeb4K8p849p-e75iKTLrUyTYlpt0galvJCxJJ0PfCxLz6YFEPuNM2FtTmbGvtbKFehXbOi3XzYPfZyRng2x42L5G_sQSAwm6ybugPCCC4eSDkE7uWqQfVEWIPRSKuB0/s2644/DSCN0448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1228" data-original-width="2644" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixnLO7XCOhW3i_xPbB-AW-TOeQfo18ZKWCwPDEroAPKqBu6gXhw3opL4ydz-3JEeb4K8p849p-e75iKTLrUyTYlpt0galvJCxJJ0PfCxLz6YFEPuNM2FtTmbGvtbKFehXbOi3XzYPfZyRng2x42L5G_sQSAwm6ybugPCCC4eSDkE7uWqQfVEWIPRSKuB0/w400-h186/DSCN0448.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Fully redesigned, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado comes in five trim levels but only one engine and cabin offering. The V6 and diesel powertrains available in earlier Colorado models have been discontinued and a 2.7-liter turbo charged 4-cylinder is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with five selectable drive modes.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Depending on the trim level, tow-haul, off-road, terrain (for off-road rock crawling), and Baja (for high-speed desert running).complement the normal setting.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlByHuIJQ3SoLVqoXyqk93gLRzXxPGU4waQ9BugvYuhhaRx-ahKqdt6bxlPOmQTeK-CegLOfGbaeKd-B-8HVduW_VonmHJWqddK8OrmlZeri7srE9g8tgEy9vj1v2SGX9dLiy-ahXpNwwvfC-3AWiepmt1iAOdTOOoiSLUDspOWX-IUPJx1lf2686S1o/s2975/DSCN0429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1291" data-original-width="2975" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlByHuIJQ3SoLVqoXyqk93gLRzXxPGU4waQ9BugvYuhhaRx-ahKqdt6bxlPOmQTeK-CegLOfGbaeKd-B-8HVduW_VonmHJWqddK8OrmlZeri7srE9g8tgEy9vj1v2SGX9dLiy-ahXpNwwvfC-3AWiepmt1iAOdTOOoiSLUDspOWX-IUPJx1lf2686S1o/w400-h175/DSCN0429.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The only cabin choice is a 4-door crew cab that fits five passengers comfortably. With the standard short (5-foot) bed, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 that served as my test model measures 212.7 inches long and 76.4 inches wide (excluding mirrors), which is about 5.6 inches longer and 8.7 inches wider than the first Colorado model that replaced the compact Chevy S-10 around two decades ago.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">At 73.8 inches in height, the 2023 Chevy Colorado is about half-a-foot taller than the debut model.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdrygeU4rCTp9dNCpl9X3bC93rA3G3PHJU9fpr986dYIBX6UXnKl34GLRLEnUDeyYb20_Ukxr0zTaz9AUTP3vjNniVC-cUDX3IsgsVX1XnTJA3nn5x989LdXKE4hN2phTij0lVrSRXoniZyDgSdbBlOci_nkukob5kQsn2PxEBSb6B1gultzW4PPnh9Y/s2426/DSCN0438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1541" data-original-width="2426" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdrygeU4rCTp9dNCpl9X3bC93rA3G3PHJU9fpr986dYIBX6UXnKl34GLRLEnUDeyYb20_Ukxr0zTaz9AUTP3vjNniVC-cUDX3IsgsVX1XnTJA3nn5x989LdXKE4hN2phTij0lVrSRXoniZyDgSdbBlOci_nkukob5kQsn2PxEBSb6B1gultzW4PPnh9Y/w400-h254/DSCN0438.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Dimensions for other trims — the base WT (or Work Truck), LT, Trail Boss, and ZR1 — vary slightly by less than an inch from the ZR2.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">ZR2 models also get a power boost up from the 4-banger engine to 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque while other trims make do with 237 hp and either 259 or 390 lb.-ft.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQ2zJbzLecxO7OCQfj7goGh6ibDbBQVPbbX0zmz6NoqwnP-T8WRFYzVh0bi5eKOg7YnMOy7ZZkWvHXEyEkiKunf9CwrVn0ESL30IBxV0zgZhSUl8mDFz3oH1opCF9EKFBk7WgSF4jR_BphMT-wdXq4Jq3y72MVvxSEPoJ5C150nUelmSG5ELcmzwo0xg/s3387/DSCN0482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1700" data-original-width="3387" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQ2zJbzLecxO7OCQfj7goGh6ibDbBQVPbbX0zmz6NoqwnP-T8WRFYzVh0bi5eKOg7YnMOy7ZZkWvHXEyEkiKunf9CwrVn0ESL30IBxV0zgZhSUl8mDFz3oH1opCF9EKFBk7WgSF4jR_BphMT-wdXq4Jq3y72MVvxSEPoJ5C150nUelmSG5ELcmzwo0xg/w400-h201/DSCN0482.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Designers gave major upgrades to the the cabin for the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR with a new center console and a new 11.2-inch touchscreen for infotainment features standing out. Legroom is a generous 45.2 inches up front but a tighter 38.3 inches in the second row.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Standard convenience features include an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, dual-zone climate control, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, and push-button start.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDBnl2SYwel0bf0Mcpj-Jr9TqT9okYEC8Lf-A0dCjwD0POwh-EWSo0M3DgabZ9lqYDT9ZbNqT1MKSY-Z-6dtufBCWvjGT8vk0Ew_ScUjJOBzP9-ezRy2po5XJ5XxGA_W09DQfpVgwzSS1GttRbZGeDiGbEAnSJulqujFI67hlYrybJqCfjqbi-Aw2QCU/s2839/DSCN0470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1695" data-original-width="2839" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDBnl2SYwel0bf0Mcpj-Jr9TqT9okYEC8Lf-A0dCjwD0POwh-EWSo0M3DgabZ9lqYDT9ZbNqT1MKSY-Z-6dtufBCWvjGT8vk0Ew_ScUjJOBzP9-ezRy2po5XJ5XxGA_W09DQfpVgwzSS1GttRbZGeDiGbEAnSJulqujFI67hlYrybJqCfjqbi-Aw2QCU/w200-h120/DSCN0470.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Notable exterior features include rocker panel protection, a spray-on bedliner, heated exterior mirrors, LED headlamps and fog lights, red recovery hooks, and a trailering equipment package (max towing capacity is a healthy 7,700 pounds).</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Safety features include Chevy’s Safety Assist, system, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and front pedestrian and bicyclist warning.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PSN_yMTS-ywyBVkJMrR0Y_2JySwClWQ54LGTpUlUDTkCNFm8yBDgNb6c457dFpgQk_WFLA7f9WFujpDsd9x5IGZd9SF6iiwFP79jeBIqLtdc0vV1MeAVSIBM004-ypqzvUr5bHXJlFmV-lALxbxRiwFBW3oDS8w7_pO4rD6AeFt6xS6Qj3QH89BesWU/s2482/DSCN0488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="459" data-original-width="2482" height="59" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PSN_yMTS-ywyBVkJMrR0Y_2JySwClWQ54LGTpUlUDTkCNFm8yBDgNb6c457dFpgQk_WFLA7f9WFujpDsd9x5IGZd9SF6iiwFP79jeBIqLtdc0vV1MeAVSIBM004-ypqzvUr5bHXJlFmV-lALxbxRiwFBW3oDS8w7_pO4rD6AeFt6xS6Qj3QH89BesWU/s320/DSCN0488.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>All that is included in the starting MSRP of $46,800.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Extras like a ZR2 Convenience Package, driver seat memory settings, heated steering wheel, perforated leather seats, ventilated front seats, blind-spot zone steering assist, rear cross traffic braking, wireless charging, sunroof, HD surround vision, and adaptive cruise control ran the final total on my test 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 to $52,130 including the $1,495 destination and delivery charge.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The ZR1 starts at just over $41,000. Other trims are priced in the $30,000 range.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1tMm0TCTEOrfQ-EsNPdflDVFRAX4QSnTEFZB5RvyBOpJGgsOHE1NquuYDyHXJi_6znOOhljopGmB_IwIJ_cY3v0QfR6LPhrdzXKjfCrMP5z5P7VUG28IUDulrj96Zg3I3IDkTpVJN7PDkIiamLIIVxfg2IaO388ns_H4Wv5GpIKZGCq-gCoby9MQHLy8/s2526/DSCN0472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2526" data-original-width="1567" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1tMm0TCTEOrfQ-EsNPdflDVFRAX4QSnTEFZB5RvyBOpJGgsOHE1NquuYDyHXJi_6znOOhljopGmB_IwIJ_cY3v0QfR6LPhrdzXKjfCrMP5z5P7VUG28IUDulrj96Zg3I3IDkTpVJN7PDkIiamLIIVxfg2IaO388ns_H4Wv5GpIKZGCq-gCoby9MQHLy8/w125-h200/DSCN0472.JPG" width="125" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2:</b> The ride is comfortable, and the upgraded turbo-4 in the ZR2 trim packs good punch. Infotainment functions are numerous and operate off a user-friendly touchscreen. HD surround vision is a nice feature when you are in crowded parking lots.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2:</b> A running board would be a great help for shorter passengers to get in and out. Not many options are offered if you want to customize your pickup.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2?</b> I’m not a truck guy, but the Colorado is a good alternative for Chevy fans if a Silverado is outside your budget. If you are seeking a compact pickup, however, the Colorado has grown out of that market.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkVCbkLiyf5ZE4AY618X4bd0uUxr9Ui42h-NHKfRWhwjs0-dWbFvT08zRp5iyNrXruBPM4WI4Yc7JrlBF2UTsuN3bl_D9XLvVlPhan9WaAzjOGdHx8oTstpzAQyavMQYB-MCSEqNi4N3ncV-tGbTBKQyo6QYmlb73jGMQyj4kRm0g26zcBG4EcgCZck2Y/s2161/DSCN0453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1507" data-original-width="2161" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkVCbkLiyf5ZE4AY618X4bd0uUxr9Ui42h-NHKfRWhwjs0-dWbFvT08zRp5iyNrXruBPM4WI4Yc7JrlBF2UTsuN3bl_D9XLvVlPhan9WaAzjOGdHx8oTstpzAQyavMQYB-MCSEqNi4N3ncV-tGbTBKQyo6QYmlb73jGMQyj4kRm0g26zcBG4EcgCZck2Y/w640-h446/DSCN0453.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-48078596203008106252023-10-11T14:21:00.004-07:002023-10-11T14:21:54.898-07:002023 HYUNDAI SANTA FE PHEV<div style="text-align: left;"><h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeCQ45YZSABywN93XZtzWP7IvnmxksVJW8yGMTpzIIuDVhE0dvv6RvN5gBDMoxFinxHwTgGErfzEdv1aOOrx-pOuhvCYj3qQ0dM2q3wY7p9EFFqC-jqe03nzbg6IyRVCu7urq8t4SLjYFY13LsFo8O1vDf9XVdJLB8JyrsilI5PMQ35jW8cs7E4Sj1znA/s2754/DSCN0359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1974" data-original-width="2754" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeCQ45YZSABywN93XZtzWP7IvnmxksVJW8yGMTpzIIuDVhE0dvv6RvN5gBDMoxFinxHwTgGErfzEdv1aOOrx-pOuhvCYj3qQ0dM2q3wY7p9EFFqC-jqe03nzbg6IyRVCu7urq8t4SLjYFY13LsFo8O1vDf9XVdJLB8JyrsilI5PMQ35jW8cs7E4Sj1znA/w400-h286/DSCN0359.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">SANTA FE PLUG-IN ALLOWS YOU TO TIPTOE <br />INTO THE ELECTRIFICATION REVOLUTION</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">If you are leaning to joining in the trend to electrified vehicles for your next purchase but are holding back because of an acute case of range anxiety, a plug-in model may be the cure you are looking for..</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmRPECSrsQs6LfTGPxhO42uZRx1Rv2zFM2rm-0FCiiFU1BS-2T3KURgE28qhY_r2NS3k27xTNhsa1qCCpCCaUP50Y5lnOHz31zKipRf2MQtGV6el1D_JoqdrgVdQcRizaCjb3dXLgve7LTW66WP8wXBrqmMI2ZjUVoL5IDA0OzhvpDYFiEdNYNOzmJr0/s2975/DSCN0397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1707" data-original-width="2975" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmRPECSrsQs6LfTGPxhO42uZRx1Rv2zFM2rm-0FCiiFU1BS-2T3KURgE28qhY_r2NS3k27xTNhsa1qCCpCCaUP50Y5lnOHz31zKipRf2MQtGV6el1D_JoqdrgVdQcRizaCjb3dXLgve7LTW66WP8wXBrqmMI2ZjUVoL5IDA0OzhvpDYFiEdNYNOzmJr0/w200-h116/DSCN0397.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Technically classified as PHEVs, options like the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in provides an all-electric driving experience over a limited range (30 miles according to the EPA) with a gasoline engine kicking in after that to extend that distance to 440 miles.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The South Korean automaker introduced the Plug-in version of the Santa Fe lineup last year to pair up with the standard gas-electric Hybrid version introduced the year before and the long-standing gas-only models that date back to 2001.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKrFkx3MA9cKMj94_4VCiRddzDe3q2KdF8NlQ3sGkmm1jYbdGg9MgIGIwMx0f7Wbih2dZvhem0y04NLW-lo29pJCE36qwO_2AfqE8mUostMTZgJH-UugYWXMDDIivaanzRNxc_kMoBurnvM15sVyffMLcExKMLMWgGgx_6ICdkUh-TSITEpO4gJlhfWU/s3104/DSCN0370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1936" data-original-width="3104" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKrFkx3MA9cKMj94_4VCiRddzDe3q2KdF8NlQ3sGkmm1jYbdGg9MgIGIwMx0f7Wbih2dZvhem0y04NLW-lo29pJCE36qwO_2AfqE8mUostMTZgJH-UugYWXMDDIivaanzRNxc_kMoBurnvM15sVyffMLcExKMLMWgGgx_6ICdkUh-TSITEpO4gJlhfWU/w400-h250/DSCN0370.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV comes in two trim levels. Both the SEL trim and the Limited, which this review is based on, feature an electric motor and a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder gasoline that combined produce 261 horsepower, which is a jump of 35 hp over the 226 for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe HEV.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Torque for the Plug-in is 224 pound-feet, a jump of 29 lb.-ft. over the HEV drivetrain. By itself, the turbo-4 is rated at 178 hp and 195 lb.ft.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA62rW3tcFmqJwWrM7kdmQNhyaOPbpeSzkMZtHZTMDxnK3J1DT4Qcl82J-w4qerB2vDGgmqEV_svwvg7H5mamU9_M7T51sDshTVqpdSGppHS5q9IQbkParKTYNHJevmLg_ki4fK84EQy1-wQTuq-hmsgBdxzYPDo_5DOW5qkgd3nG68chlCrYSlep7DOQ/s3067/DSCN0365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1963" data-original-width="3067" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA62rW3tcFmqJwWrM7kdmQNhyaOPbpeSzkMZtHZTMDxnK3J1DT4Qcl82J-w4qerB2vDGgmqEV_svwvg7H5mamU9_M7T51sDshTVqpdSGppHS5q9IQbkParKTYNHJevmLg_ki4fK84EQy1-wQTuq-hmsgBdxzYPDo_5DOW5qkgd3nG68chlCrYSlep7DOQ/w400-h258/DSCN0365.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">EPA ratings for the Plug-in are 76 MPGe when the gas engine and electric motor are operating in tandem and 33 miles-per-gallon in gasoline-only mode.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Hyundai has blessed the 2023 Santa Fe Plug-in with a fairly long list of features that on the SEL included a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, an electric parking brake with automatic vehicle hold, blind-spot warning, forward collision assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection, hillstart assist, push-button start, 19-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, hands-free power liftgate, 8-way power driver’s seat with 2-way lumbar support, leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual automatic climate control, Smart (adaptive) cruise control, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and more.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj087WV8uo_COoK4GgJav9DVfz8S8-remNiFeebdYWqxnFa40xlsxeiV7RBVGakDx1nKX5iyKg7q9ApujPwcl6cjfbuRlPsJQXdlUAytk8UcCauYxsO852OJFo8XOFBbg4_S-JnGp0GlweF9vwDyy8YFqJvevkP6kp3k5qNIePl7z5fgeqjEPU4C7P5Dfo/s2840/DSCN0378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1987" data-original-width="2840" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj087WV8uo_COoK4GgJav9DVfz8S8-remNiFeebdYWqxnFa40xlsxeiV7RBVGakDx1nKX5iyKg7q9ApujPwcl6cjfbuRlPsJQXdlUAytk8UcCauYxsO852OJFo8XOFBbg4_S-JnGp0GlweF9vwDyy8YFqJvevkP6kp3k5qNIePl7z5fgeqjEPU4C7P5Dfo/w400-h281/DSCN0378.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The upgraded Limited trim gets a parking collision assist system with reverse parking collision avoidance, leather-trimmed seats, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, an 8-way power front passenger seat, panoramic sunroof, LED interior lights, and a Harman Kardan premium audio system, and a surround-view monitor.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">New standard features added for 2023 on Santa Fe Limited models are Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist that takes some of the stress out of long trips, 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation, and dynamic voice recognition.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL8smmTSXYjTfDgAV9YW79jOhzor66dkapeYsHLm5qp4gTLtBDNG_UiKxrUpElhen29I4qRWko89c4vhL7mLkw7WGSYoeo7udvFGGgYtuXb3LXbO9O3UirM3nD_J5MsMl3Kt7pGg5XSBdAYhDO7P-rmWrrS3rgdEO0aSpIryyhjDMm12LkAB6pX07pc44/s3394/DSCN0415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1532" data-original-width="3394" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL8smmTSXYjTfDgAV9YW79jOhzor66dkapeYsHLm5qp4gTLtBDNG_UiKxrUpElhen29I4qRWko89c4vhL7mLkw7WGSYoeo7udvFGGgYtuXb3LXbO9O3UirM3nD_J5MsMl3Kt7pGg5XSBdAYhDO7P-rmWrrS3rgdEO0aSpIryyhjDMm12LkAB6pX07pc44/w400-h181/DSCN0415.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Such features and a nicely designed, comfortable interior give the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV Limited a premium feel. There is little to quibble about when it comes to its interior.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Starting MSRP for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Limited is $48,005 included freight charges of $1,335. That’s a jump from the $44,205 for the Santa Fe Hybrid Limited.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The SEL trim for the 2023 Huyundai Santa Fe Plugin starts at $43,745 including destination and delivery.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8EAXjvOVb_FAlgCekxjfzcHzUNNawZ73IE0cuCpXrfY-kbSXbwoXnemsMd_qBX9MSzkDCWk_2YJxF9YkULRyOxo1nw6wwRjM5WeCT0YNtLm9ITFE_D-bQiAGB6_UALdiSJvOWDpyDa5HH4jq3EJT9OqJ-f2MkX9btOKcHBAB7tfFM-WNjNPMv1puumo/s3173/DSCN0420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2519" data-original-width="3173" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8EAXjvOVb_FAlgCekxjfzcHzUNNawZ73IE0cuCpXrfY-kbSXbwoXnemsMd_qBX9MSzkDCWk_2YJxF9YkULRyOxo1nw6wwRjM5WeCT0YNtLm9ITFE_D-bQiAGB6_UALdiSJvOWDpyDa5HH4jq3EJT9OqJ-f2MkX9btOKcHBAB7tfFM-WNjNPMv1puumo/w200-h159/DSCN0420.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Limited: </b>It has a classy exterior and a roomy, well-appointed interior with lots of user-friendly tech features. With only two rows of seating, the rear cargo area is very accommodating. The ride is quiet and comfortable. Legroom in the second row is a generous 39.5 inches. All-wheel drive is a plus.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-a3_V8-L4yktqKtpTQhPYP10PZTiKQOK7_X18G3EfhyphenhyphenOLxuRo-cAL48DIBubQ-XolCni1_1S48Kiltm3JxLVLJ8OYkFWRrfZ3Ddyfw9mOod-7eR__voPZSBeRme-hvKD2Z_RWIL7TAs0c4mqYy5ArX_kk4Ph3gD8cp1hSzRx1LbYTVXl9XUc4FTNCbsQ/s2762/DSCN0376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1642" data-original-width="2762" height="119" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-a3_V8-L4yktqKtpTQhPYP10PZTiKQOK7_X18G3EfhyphenhyphenOLxuRo-cAL48DIBubQ-XolCni1_1S48Kiltm3JxLVLJ8OYkFWRrfZ3Ddyfw9mOod-7eR__voPZSBeRme-hvKD2Z_RWIL7TAs0c4mqYy5ArX_kk4Ph3gD8cp1hSzRx1LbYTVXl9XUc4FTNCbsQ/w200-h119/DSCN0376.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>What I didn’t like about the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Limited:</b> It would be nice if the plug-in offered a bit more in way of electric only driving range, say in the range of approaching 40 miles instead of the current 30. I would prefer a standard shift knob over the push-button selector on the console.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Limited?</b> If you have a convenient place to plug it in for overnight and your daily commutes are fairly short, the 2023 Santa Fe PHEV is a great buy. Stretching your budget for the Limited trim over the SEL pays benefits.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Fs4MYze1j3uj9I7_ktskN09z7q3nQt5ZMvDnjOYbNiEF2o1GySwe4v67Zpb48704FlaZhv55091H4fDbH9giSUzXYI-4osdoxOLFtQFh1Ox8WHu1pAb0Qx91j72ogM-a-vP46V47X76HbhFWBGiq2nyjnxJvCfAb2zs0pTLuZdPnx7htxrJOgX9DTws/s3427/DSCN0389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2104" data-original-width="3427" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Fs4MYze1j3uj9I7_ktskN09z7q3nQt5ZMvDnjOYbNiEF2o1GySwe4v67Zpb48704FlaZhv55091H4fDbH9giSUzXYI-4osdoxOLFtQFh1Ox8WHu1pAb0Qx91j72ogM-a-vP46V47X76HbhFWBGiq2nyjnxJvCfAb2zs0pTLuZdPnx7htxrJOgX9DTws/w640-h392/DSCN0389.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-5157427093445252982023-09-28T14:25:00.001-07:002023-09-28T14:25:36.711-07:00FORD BRONCO EVERGLADES<div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEillAZzfQiKT9NSBMqC2zKqm4FoYhmzP_nW6udETo6_GTWh4ldqV8QDZWKqdGxn2dXT2H7ecexZYpM656MC8OXLmo8nmxYX-RCEFIImDuEJMUqZjP9Jt_PhsZL47_eYzJg3wy179vYOEKHCWBqxPCyBZNh56lxaKE-PsbGjAbT3u28DlUZrg_FeZNwfAO4/s2652/DSCN0293.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2145" data-original-width="2652" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEillAZzfQiKT9NSBMqC2zKqm4FoYhmzP_nW6udETo6_GTWh4ldqV8QDZWKqdGxn2dXT2H7ecexZYpM656MC8OXLmo8nmxYX-RCEFIImDuEJMUqZjP9Jt_PhsZL47_eYzJg3wy179vYOEKHCWBqxPCyBZNh56lxaKE-PsbGjAbT3u28DlUZrg_FeZNwfAO4/w400-h325/DSCN0293.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">FORD BRONCO EVERGLADES LOOKS TO TAKE ON THE SWAMP, (NO, NOT THE ONE IN D.C.</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Among sentences you are not likely to find in many car reviews:</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Ford is using technology derived from World War II German U-boats to expand the off-roading prowess of its Bronco SUV.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7OI9KpMpr89Y296YDkk2jklTr98v4aI0jrOXTvGL4LYvxMA2DdfAEugQwwrzu3YxFDdUoXiIoK3UE-CLXajzynxw34IPGW-8i73Y_VrR87ht8IMrI35xCaZM-6UDnpPGefxEIy41kt-LeIZMtf07YeDjLFGaahGH7sjmsHZ_eVHOrJWPDuty_dnB0VTg/s1485/DSCN0320.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1485" data-original-width="1109" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7OI9KpMpr89Y296YDkk2jklTr98v4aI0jrOXTvGL4LYvxMA2DdfAEugQwwrzu3YxFDdUoXiIoK3UE-CLXajzynxw34IPGW-8i73Y_VrR87ht8IMrI35xCaZM-6UDnpPGefxEIy41kt-LeIZMtf07YeDjLFGaahGH7sjmsHZ_eVHOrJWPDuty_dnB0VTg/w150-h200/DSCN0320.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>The “Everglades” edition of the Ford Bronco unveiled in 2022 features a snorkel system that allows it to ford streams or traverse swampy terrain you might encounter on an off-roading adventure.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Unlike the snorkel masts that reached skyward from the decks of World War II-vintage submarines to scoop air that allowed the diesel engines to run while the sub was submerged, the snorkel on the Ford Bronco Everglades edition is merged into the passenger-side A pillar and is not as obvious. You could say it is kind of hidden in plain sight.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYuxMaKjPMElVivBxijjTNRKxKtTUv0BoM7Nlar8qapUgrfeTFmHHqHQsCWV1LpoG-ND1hmvAXKOHSjweCWnbwHIitGUyW7pL9_m9HhSQu8ExXSmwZo_FlmcRaOBFi2I7EwEVT-F_EWyrmlqnGs1D4s-ZcODM88CVgSpJQetxZfh3WZ5xs_C2W3xnjxU/s4080/20230925_155928.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3060" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYuxMaKjPMElVivBxijjTNRKxKtTUv0BoM7Nlar8qapUgrfeTFmHHqHQsCWV1LpoG-ND1hmvAXKOHSjweCWnbwHIitGUyW7pL9_m9HhSQu8ExXSmwZo_FlmcRaOBFi2I7EwEVT-F_EWyrmlqnGs1D4s-ZcODM88CVgSpJQetxZfh3WZ5xs_C2W3xnjxU/w150-h200/20230925_155928.jpeg" width="150" /></a></div>The snorkel and other tweaks like special vents for the front and rear axles, transfer case, and transmission don’t make the Bronco Everglades a truly amphibious vehicle, but they do give the Bronco the ability to handle water hazards up to 36.4 inches deep, or one-to-three inches deeper than its main competitors.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhH0zL5bqYUF1TJJXAuXqWujW1QPdKaEc1GtNrchy70I_sWyCI4yYcO5-NzcsoJsN9lYmQb6tXh8jPGzFK-zsoxVMC4Y5ZsX79T6unXFqsBQgQK3L6NkEoF92y0Y_9dNqvmSQbGOkiXdSt353zgVv9B-Lh7jqLCgJzwoXDgzoeDSkNicjTjlgtThfRs1c/s2471/DSCN0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1918" data-original-width="2471" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhH0zL5bqYUF1TJJXAuXqWujW1QPdKaEc1GtNrchy70I_sWyCI4yYcO5-NzcsoJsN9lYmQb6tXh8jPGzFK-zsoxVMC4Y5ZsX79T6unXFqsBQgQK3L6NkEoF92y0Y_9dNqvmSQbGOkiXdSt353zgVv9B-Lh7jqLCgJzwoXDgzoeDSkNicjTjlgtThfRs1c/w200-h155/DSCN0305.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>In case you overestimate your seaworthiness, Ford has included as standard a winch and front and rear tow hooks to get you unstuck. (It goes without saying it helps that if you are venturing into more challenging treks to do so in a group!)</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Ford Bronco Everglades comes with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque when fed premium grade fuel. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and features a two-speed transfer case with modes selected via convenient buttons on the face of the upraised console storage bin.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidolT54Ipn-SOl5yndDjx8eoN1316W6GHD1rErdn4DMn0wNNz-nZbs1m9_77LanoA3KPi2MdhM5GV-EDgvqQi5kcJ4tx-x2CP3dNxZRORP_CQSMiof9WtwAVcRJcaDaiCKRaQ3YyqGfAkFQxsAfAJkI0RsuhHlqBu2_YlIvh2S2W2r2mSwgd7TNm6tA-E/s2613/DSCN0301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1655" data-original-width="2613" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidolT54Ipn-SOl5yndDjx8eoN1316W6GHD1rErdn4DMn0wNNz-nZbs1m9_77LanoA3KPi2MdhM5GV-EDgvqQi5kcJ4tx-x2CP3dNxZRORP_CQSMiof9WtwAVcRJcaDaiCKRaQ3YyqGfAkFQxsAfAJkI0RsuhHlqBu2_YlIvh2S2W2r2mSwgd7TNm6tA-E/w400-h254/DSCN0301.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Fuel economy is rated at 18 miles-per-gallon city, 17 highway, and 18 combined</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As with its main competitor, the Jeep Wrangler, side and roof panels may be removed from the Ford Bronco Everglades for a more open air experience on the trail, though that’s not recommended for highway use. Rock rails and steel skid places protect the underbody.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_7f7KvHAtIctkwmMeNlq1A7py4VgSxYblRgPfrT1K7VnkoRzIDte6Eyq8l750csR499UiK7dN4isuho-8WYiTwda42ay0j9QA0o1MrQR1fjB3JMSCUCUkGpj6h1SI2epfoM98UY0RK-hxxJkNlpkyEvjsQQn-W5Hu7hyphenhyphend7cGQJPB4IHjf5LHRmNggnwc/s3479/DSCN0283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2159" data-original-width="3479" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_7f7KvHAtIctkwmMeNlq1A7py4VgSxYblRgPfrT1K7VnkoRzIDte6Eyq8l750csR499UiK7dN4isuho-8WYiTwda42ay0j9QA0o1MrQR1fjB3JMSCUCUkGpj6h1SI2epfoM98UY0RK-hxxJkNlpkyEvjsQQn-W5Hu7hyphenhyphend7cGQJPB4IHjf5LHRmNggnwc/w400-h250/DSCN0283.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Ford Bronco Everglades also accepts other modifications to fenders and the like if the owner feels it is getting a “dated” look, which gives the vehicle a longer shelf life.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">When it comes to convenience and comfort features, the Ford Bronco Everglades is a civilized beast. Infotainment systems feature Ford’s Sync 4 package, include navigation, and work off a 12-inch touchscreen, though simple functions operate off convenient knobs. A 4G WiFi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto also are included.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaUVghI0r_ieittAXj9R9912vNLpqn9mDHtARW6pvjbq4U03d9eus5ATm94RWdTGN2VYoKNS-w82fZuXcWF0Gbe11gWbpwNsLGpWJL0X4Q3vy3gVLaUaZ0tEHLju974tURhLV9Pw8MofbxJ_EXrFWmGqZ7UWAdV2gjMsFA3ZNzQGPQkdwGFWj8mgcOv8/s2927/DSCN0289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2192" data-original-width="2927" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaUVghI0r_ieittAXj9R9912vNLpqn9mDHtARW6pvjbq4U03d9eus5ATm94RWdTGN2VYoKNS-w82fZuXcWF0Gbe11gWbpwNsLGpWJL0X4Q3vy3gVLaUaZ0tEHLju974tURhLV9Pw8MofbxJ_EXrFWmGqZ7UWAdV2gjMsFA3ZNzQGPQkdwGFWj8mgcOv8/w400-h300/DSCN0289.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The Ford Bronco Everglades rides on 17-inch wheels. Vinyl seats are standard, though the gear knob snd steering wheel are leather-wrapped. Push-button start is standard as well.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">A final word about the snorkel system. The air intake normally faces forward but can be flipped around if you driving in excessively dusty conditions.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqZy1KU4wRO7und5aUc2CdpZG9f5UtrP6y-kFWEYSJ-TFPxtVHeXJk7okFwMhOJHK0OsLNb83leO2dhw517UPzgrT8xcEyFOFWY85Dwsq95g-dvQXNSbkk2v6o6-i-NX_LJBAGMnlpKEH-yoc69rddzaT5gGGA7kqLldNuVkiqKDkEcujrlfe3QbO-5os/s3523/DSCN0350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1971" data-original-width="3523" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqZy1KU4wRO7und5aUc2CdpZG9f5UtrP6y-kFWEYSJ-TFPxtVHeXJk7okFwMhOJHK0OsLNb83leO2dhw517UPzgrT8xcEyFOFWY85Dwsq95g-dvQXNSbkk2v6o6-i-NX_LJBAGMnlpKEH-yoc69rddzaT5gGGA7kqLldNuVkiqKDkEcujrlfe3QbO-5os/w400-h225/DSCN0350.JPG" width="400" /></a></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-size: large;">MSRP for the 2024 Bronco Everglades starts at $55,520 before even destination and delivery and any other extras are added on. The spec sheet for my test vehicle, a debut 2022 model that essentially has gone unchanged over the last two years, did not include pricing information<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3FyyPqfPL90jb04DnmoFhkZa6Fpfg1hRTgC5OL0HY86W_zLLWuJejEmqAuaJIG-FhCsr87DsZdrrVl5BmBJ9IFwilcrMSenh-54EWDmWhBj8tws16fcyWTMkdKu8BELdqtIjsbJKFWLzeFg-LuLtfZmYKbQRQ9K7AamHPm6JwjmYrrQ-XvMnF1j_DjI/s2672/DSCN0326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2672" data-original-width="1662" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3FyyPqfPL90jb04DnmoFhkZa6Fpfg1hRTgC5OL0HY86W_zLLWuJejEmqAuaJIG-FhCsr87DsZdrrVl5BmBJ9IFwilcrMSenh-54EWDmWhBj8tws16fcyWTMkdKu8BELdqtIjsbJKFWLzeFg-LuLtfZmYKbQRQ9K7AamHPm6JwjmYrrQ-XvMnF1j_DjI/w125-h200/DSCN0326.JPG" width="125" /></a></div>What I liked about the Ford Bronco Everglades: </b>The screen for the navigation map is a nice size and is very clear. Infotainment functions overall are user-friendly with knobs to operate the radio and temperature controls. Other than considerable noise at highway speed, the ride is comfortable enough.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the Ford Bronco Everglades: </b>With the extra ground clearance making the cabin sit so high, getting in and out can be a chore, especially for vertically challenged passengers. Wind and road noise at highway speeds drowns out the radio and turns casual conversations into near shouting matches.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the Ford Bronco Everglades? </b>Though engineered for rugged (and wet) off-road excursions, the Bronco Everglades serves well for a daily driver, though if one of your regular riders is height-challenged you may want to reconsider. I have liked my off-roading experiences, rare as they are, but am personally not in the market for such a specialized vehicle. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNIut3VwDKxhf5gZhKJMgTKNqXeqIAF_3ItIMysKyksdjwCw7HjcpXHYU74UQSw-TNSt7oTIf6sR0WMpmTYKi37sJw-Q2XNIjdU0wnrSQhoeqxt1AHCd8Sqd_WNlo8gF6pJ0QgefTVfw_Ba-kAlRIKWzsaMEq4T9bCe8WNw_N2JUFGcOJYvhYBmTejPTQ/s2918/DSCN0313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1857" data-original-width="2918" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNIut3VwDKxhf5gZhKJMgTKNqXeqIAF_3ItIMysKyksdjwCw7HjcpXHYU74UQSw-TNSt7oTIf6sR0WMpmTYKi37sJw-Q2XNIjdU0wnrSQhoeqxt1AHCd8Sqd_WNlo8gF6pJ0QgefTVfw_Ba-kAlRIKWzsaMEq4T9bCe8WNw_N2JUFGcOJYvhYBmTejPTQ/w640-h410/DSCN0313.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7350504883380538648.post-87185880302940381992023-09-13T13:19:00.000-07:002023-09-13T13:19:17.307-07:002023 FORD F-150 RAPTOR R<h1 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkVvXSCwsH3djJYbYwzdFawGzN9aebHGY9K9ghhFN-utyMAUgZ6JZOsAzsPnBB4OGpWC7HlinwYVzVk22qssXm4DuHIkxWx1lzup79NAa246K-uZvNeAGrGx2KPzNH5FpMnXXQAPV8NMganCDL9WJr3qHE_kBHeHyKv9jJgTnqE7-h0B5RFXJlv4gePE/s2550/DSCN0229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1399" data-original-width="2550" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkVvXSCwsH3djJYbYwzdFawGzN9aebHGY9K9ghhFN-utyMAUgZ6JZOsAzsPnBB4OGpWC7HlinwYVzVk22qssXm4DuHIkxWx1lzup79NAa246K-uZvNeAGrGx2KPzNH5FpMnXXQAPV8NMganCDL9WJr3qHE_kBHeHyKv9jJgTnqE7-h0B5RFXJlv4gePE/w400-h220/DSCN0229.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h1><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">FORD RAPTOR R AT HOME ON THE RACE TRACK AS WELL AS OFF-ROAD TRAILS</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As if the 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque in the standard Ford F-150 Raptor isn’t enough, Ford has blessed us with an “R” version that takes those figures up to a breathtaking 700 horsepower and 640 pound-feet for those hungering for sports car-like performance.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2mSmbnBjCkM1BO44ryV5LMEnPuidbG5imadfvMv0SMsMR7YzTL2Z5dxjCfFL1XjPh-B3Xzgse8LQJmLjRPS20JVtzw2w5tscSxMBOnMx4KiF4p5TeUcAMqPQjKE8Df-ERnOcEXwWxYqbgrLWM7SnRGMuwF_4dq9M0uNxnDurvjyJUPF6Pq3KEysoUdyE/s1810/DSCN0221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="1810" height="39" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2mSmbnBjCkM1BO44ryV5LMEnPuidbG5imadfvMv0SMsMR7YzTL2Z5dxjCfFL1XjPh-B3Xzgse8LQJmLjRPS20JVtzw2w5tscSxMBOnMx4KiF4p5TeUcAMqPQjKE8Df-ERnOcEXwWxYqbgrLWM7SnRGMuwF_4dq9M0uNxnDurvjyJUPF6Pq3KEysoUdyE/w200-h39/DSCN0221.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R zips from zero-to-60 miles per hour in a rapid 3.6 seconds with the capability of crushing anything that might have the misfortune of getting in its way.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">When I was growing up I never figured a pickup truck might be my vehicle of choice for a drag race but here we are.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4j2AXtPd3hs1cV4hVWCcsYX3j-sCVqzm3gr0PlgEsyBQdbyGOq-X_eW0goOHpUppYfJAziE66cJ0qU9MOYxPKg4ymjheW1TkdDt8zASXU6-Fl6Frz9ojmQk8T-k-ojMWqIPpGZVva0SfKtSlcSKbUyfDmm_sejTz1QbQ5AQixHKYCS2VfcZwTaaAhFg/s2987/DSCN0236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="2987" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4j2AXtPd3hs1cV4hVWCcsYX3j-sCVqzm3gr0PlgEsyBQdbyGOq-X_eW0goOHpUppYfJAziE66cJ0qU9MOYxPKg4ymjheW1TkdDt8zASXU6-Fl6Frz9ojmQk8T-k-ojMWqIPpGZVva0SfKtSlcSKbUyfDmm_sejTz1QbQ5AQixHKYCS2VfcZwTaaAhFg/w400-h189/DSCN0236.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R’s supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine is adopted from the Mustang Shelby GT500 and is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. A 2-speed transfer case for off-roading adventures is activated via a convenient panel of buttons on the lower dash.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R rides on standard 37-inch wheels shod with all-terrain tires and, like the Raptor itself, is available only with a five-passenger SuperCrew cabin.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrLaEhiQ8U_zga6W05-o72FycetA0CXl2EunFlu5RNKd4qITu3OTyjvRQayWNrPsxHd1EL7g2aYZpEaCKRPrqWC77B1phxHXTtFMejXMobsDJGnOAv9PJSt39MyxrCGMUBGVfZww2nZXel0Mc0t5l0DnJPknyhQpQZwNOw4wzEJeRivsNGyNjcvcKDf8/s3025/DSCN0225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1414" data-original-width="3025" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrLaEhiQ8U_zga6W05-o72FycetA0CXl2EunFlu5RNKd4qITu3OTyjvRQayWNrPsxHd1EL7g2aYZpEaCKRPrqWC77B1phxHXTtFMejXMobsDJGnOAv9PJSt39MyxrCGMUBGVfZww2nZXel0Mc0t5l0DnJPknyhQpQZwNOw4wzEJeRivsNGyNjcvcKDf8/w400-h189/DSCN0225.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">It comes with a wide range of creature comforts such as heated second-row seats, FordPass Connect with 4G wifi telematics, Sync4 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen, leather-wrapped steering wheel, keyless entry and push-button start, Raptor branded floor mats, power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a distinct Raptor centerstack, a terrain management system, and and adaptive cruise control for highway.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Trail control, a system that allows you to select a specific speed for off-road ventures, also is standard. With this vehicle, you are at home off the road as well as the race track or drag strip.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnfL8NywOWQckdYZ2yBlNigsuAU-sMoSyXFWKYBaOmQiw664VG6fNbXO47dRZtvp3XRA-K98_ecqt_HAWrPJcCJNNjLcVhrBECwFJ_RCO5-X-J7H0a0r6c0oyRF_zj7tZHV-K47vKS7A6RKrpTv-2zIcDOCbknzwUvpi0LAAnrlmfrI5dZDHIZva9M1Fw/s2626/DSCN0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1457" data-original-width="2626" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnfL8NywOWQckdYZ2yBlNigsuAU-sMoSyXFWKYBaOmQiw664VG6fNbXO47dRZtvp3XRA-K98_ecqt_HAWrPJcCJNNjLcVhrBECwFJ_RCO5-X-J7H0a0r6c0oyRF_zj7tZHV-K47vKS7A6RKrpTv-2zIcDOCbknzwUvpi0LAAnrlmfrI5dZDHIZva9M1Fw/w400-h224/DSCN0217.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Safety features include Ford’s Advancetrac system for stability control, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, and pre-collision assist with emergency braking and pedestrian detection.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">My test 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R also came with a package of features that included leather seat surfaces, power-adjustable pedals, power-sliding rear window with privacy glass, dual-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, LED box lighting, and more.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjII4YO4HotIXKaiGM6TJn9v2fP-8R3RrTrKT1Pgb8XJMRro8eNJH9t7RKDroefprRUwBnoj-dDxjcRCaSv0HmSlXXslCRWLpEGPvqE8XIYIRmAFVXGN5N3f-P4VhjOTPNMawpWdqbiQRflG862IzKw6Y--KgoUtP7-1vB1EVqtJ8b6wELawo84pbYsU/s3535/DSCN0273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1754" data-original-width="3535" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjII4YO4HotIXKaiGM6TJn9v2fP-8R3RrTrKT1Pgb8XJMRro8eNJH9t7RKDroefprRUwBnoj-dDxjcRCaSv0HmSlXXslCRWLpEGPvqE8XIYIRmAFVXGN5N3f-P4VhjOTPNMawpWdqbiQRflG862IzKw6Y--KgoUtP7-1vB1EVqtJ8b6wELawo84pbYsU/w400-h200/DSCN0273.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Pricing was not included on the spec sheet since this particular vehicle is not for sale, but the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R is going to cost you a lot more than the standard Raptor. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Starting MSRP for the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R is $109,145, or around $30,000 more more than the EcoBoost-powered F-150 Raptors. Even the most expensive electric F-150 Lightning, the Platinum trim, is about $17,000 less. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOq4W2QDLew36Qv7W67vcAc1suCQNL3hvhSU7fH61RoyUbDNQYPaVzn0iknJ00NSfMpeS32zNFwPXvWHqmPFVA3U3zhhHV-1mUUvcYkllmS7DXJX1gXMpDTQdunjG6Wafj0w5wEUZz4SPkEbHBxVFJ-XCpr5Ya3roYM9Ut_BLmq6O-I8uGhZCmX0PGbew/s2980/DSCN0261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1486" data-original-width="2980" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOq4W2QDLew36Qv7W67vcAc1suCQNL3hvhSU7fH61RoyUbDNQYPaVzn0iknJ00NSfMpeS32zNFwPXvWHqmPFVA3U3zhhHV-1mUUvcYkllmS7DXJX1gXMpDTQdunjG6Wafj0w5wEUZz4SPkEbHBxVFJ-XCpr5Ya3roYM9Ut_BLmq6O-I8uGhZCmX0PGbew/w200-h100/DSCN0261.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Speaking of less, it should be pointed out that despite the overall power boost in the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R, towing capacity starts at 8,200, well below the 14,000-15,000 available on some standard V8 F-150s. Maximum payload is listed at 1,400 pounds, also well short of F-150s equipped with a slightly larger beds than the Raptor’s 5.5-foot b</span><span style="font-size: x-large;">ox.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMFzWHqol9A2soSusJjSTgiW9ZkB3gIT3W6T_2XoUnoNzryZveMPxTc18luXfK_ycc5xvuOD_wEIP4KMtiBSzVxRgZOqXij1WCMoFXVUA0dXTJ7smvMCwMDM1ddm4JU8T61tN0Rt--atc-UMiLkuGy29Ak1dtP6m8gUnTBIBaMjsb_oqK64TeeOKkxA8/s1911/DSCN0265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1911" data-original-width="1828" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMFzWHqol9A2soSusJjSTgiW9ZkB3gIT3W6T_2XoUnoNzryZveMPxTc18luXfK_ycc5xvuOD_wEIP4KMtiBSzVxRgZOqXij1WCMoFXVUA0dXTJ7smvMCwMDM1ddm4JU8T61tN0Rt--atc-UMiLkuGy29Ak1dtP6m8gUnTBIBaMjsb_oqK64TeeOKkxA8/w191-h200/DSCN0265.JPG" width="191" /></a></div>What I liked about the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R:</b> With its deep bass exhaust tones and rapid throttle response, it’s like driving a 1960s’ Muscle Car on steroids. The ride is surprisingly smooth and comfortable even with all-terrain tires and a firm suspension designed for off-road use. Infotainment features in the Sync 4 system are user-friendly and include knobs for adjusting the radio and temperature control. The full-size running boards ease the way to get in and out of both rows of seating in the spacious Super Cab cabin. A surround-view camera view takes some of the angst of maneuvering in tight quarters. The auto hold system, activated via the Features menu on the touchscreen, prevents creeping at intersections.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I didn’t like about the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R:</b> Negotiating narrow streets and jam-packed mall parking lots call for attentive handling. It’s a thirsty beast as the computer showed my mileage hovering at just over 11-mpg. Fortunately, a 36-gallon fuel tank extends the range.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Would I buy the 2023 Ford F-150Raptor R? </b>Not for me personally but for someone with a big budget for more challenging off-road excursions it has to be at the top of the wish list.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYGBMLVGIZaB5z37tal4V_YnUDRXz5xNiQjdPNVH7QTvuR4XFix32Zs2Vw4snsqYiB_Of1TtiJqG7RgrCgq-67lW7r25dHzAT0BCHbwC9x7aO8niIM3sp2_quG_6JxpHDgMiCelFEJyKXscjsoS7I8s88jc2_GPuErRnWtcdTwzSijSErPAAjF-6Mq4Q/s2543/DSCN0243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1952" data-original-width="2543" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYGBMLVGIZaB5z37tal4V_YnUDRXz5xNiQjdPNVH7QTvuR4XFix32Zs2Vw4snsqYiB_Of1TtiJqG7RgrCgq-67lW7r25dHzAT0BCHbwC9x7aO8niIM3sp2_quG_6JxpHDgMiCelFEJyKXscjsoS7I8s88jc2_GPuErRnWtcdTwzSijSErPAAjF-6Mq4Q/w640-h492/DSCN0243.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div>Paul Bordenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10303277445092967209noreply@blogger.com0