2023 Hyundai Ionic 5 Limited AWD road test review by Ben Lewis

Has the fervor over EV’s cooled? Maybe. That’s a question to do with costs, infrastructure, rebates and more. Honestly, that’s probably above our pay grade. But the vehicles themselves, we have to say they are impressive, and one of our favorites has to be the Hyundai Ionic 5. So while we’ve had some fun with EV’s lately including the stylish Ionic 6, the crazy BMW XM, and Toyota’s bZ4X and the rocket ship Kia EV6 GT, when we were offered another go ‘round with the Ionic 5, we jumped at the chance. Does it hold up to our memory, or …

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Dodge Unveils 2024 Charger, Challenger Nameplate Dies But Hurricane & EV Power Confirmed

When Dodge chose to kill the long-running Charger and Challenger models due to tightening fuel economy standards and the aging platform that underpinned both models, enthusiasts across the U.S. lamented their demise. However, it turned out that Dodge had a trick up its sleeve and after teasing the future with the Charger SRT Daytona EV Concept, the muscle car brand has turned up the heat with the company unveiling the 2024 Charger which writes a new chapter in the history of Dodge performance.   Challenger is Dead, Long Live Charger A big change that buyers will notice before they even …

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Aston Martin Vantage F1 Safety Car Builds On Essentials Bumps Up Screens

The old Aston Martin Vantage F1 safety car looked stylish and had a good track record of service at various F1 events. However, its performance was not up to everyone’s taste with reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen torching the car’s performance. Verstappen’s complaints (among others) prompted Aston Martin to unleash an improved Vantage F1 Safety Car which not only gets more muscle but also more technology as well. More Performance Sharpens Vantage Safety Car Vibes A key change that race fans and Aston Martin loyalists will notice is the infusion of extra power with this latest version of the safety …

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Maserati GranCabrio Kisses The Sun With New Droptop Styling and Trofeo Flavored Performance

The Maserati GranCabrio has been an enduring presence, both in the way it’s connected to the GranTurismo coupe, but also how the model has often been considered Maserati’s style model with only exotic offerings like the MC20 surpassing its beauty. The 2024 GranCabrio aims to take the moniker in a new direction and also represents the start of a new era in styling and performance.   GranTurismo Underpinnings Give GranCabrio Depth The outgoing version had styling that was around since the mid-2000s but it was starting to age badly when viewed against some of its GT rivals. The 2024 version …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Toyota GR86 Premium – Does It Still Have The Fun Factor?

It’s not often that improvements bring out the best in an automobile, but in the case of the 2023 Toyota GR86, it was exactly what the doctor ordered. The 2022 model gave the model more power and also made some revisions to the exterior and the interior which resulted in a noticeable transformation. But does it have long-term staying power? We wanted to find out.   GR86 & BRZ Siblings To The End Both the 2023 GR86 and its Subaru cousin the BRZ were designed to appeal to budget-focused performance buyers and that’s evident in the exterior styling with designers …

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2025 Aston Martin Vantage Gets More Power, New Looks, & A Pinch Of Familiarity

It can be hard to believe that the Aston Martin Vantage has been in production for over 74 years. While the model has certainly seen its fair share of ups and downs (some of them reflecting Aston Martin‘s shifting fortunes) the Vantage has always been the most popular model that the British sports car maker sells. Aston has chosen to make some key updates to the 2025 Aston Martin Vantage as it prepares to enter a new sports car era.   Vantage, A Blend of Old & New The exterior styling of the 2025 Aston Martin Vantage is a mixture …

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2024 Lexus LC 500 Convertible review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the 2023 Lexus LC 500 Coupe and found it a dream – stunning looks, storming V8 power, Lexus quality, and just the feeling of exclusivity. A Lexus to covet, to be sure. And then Lexus offers us a visit in the 2024 LC 500 convertible. Not only that, thereʻs some significant upgrades in the technology, and a Bespoke Build package – just in case all the above in the coupe wasnʻt enough. So will the drop-top LC create another level of Lexus Lust? Letʻs find out! Stately Wayne Manners The first impression you get looking at the …

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2025 Kia Carnival Goes Under The Knife With New Face, K5 Sedan Gets Refresh Too

When Kia first brought the Kia Carnival to our shores, the Korean car giant promised that the Carnival was going to introduce more SUV DNA into the venerable minivan mix. For any doubters remaining in the room, Kia has chosen the 2025 model year to give the 2025 Carnival an extensive facelift that further hones in the SUV undertones while also adding new tech to the van as well. As a bonus, it also decided to extend the updates to the 2025 Kia K5 sedan.   Angrier Face Draws In More Carnival Buyers, Hybrid Model Debuts The updates to the …

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Aston Martin Poised To Debut New Vantage, Will Be Formally Unveiled February 12th

The Aston Martin Vantage is poised for a big change. The British sports car maker recently confirmed that the Vantage was going to be overhauled but didn’t reveal much info on when we would see it in the flesh. But that’s now changing, with the company not only confirming that it would be unveiled on February 12th, but also supplying a lone teaser image as a sample dish.   A Sign Of Things To Come For Vantage The lone teaser image Aston sent primarily focuses on one of the front fenders with the vent work taking center stage. The vents …

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Cadillac Adds Polish and Tech to 2025 CT5 V-Series, Keeps Manual Alive In CT5-V Blackwing

At first glance, it’s easy to assume that the Cadillac CT5 is a mere bookend when it comes to the brand’s broader sales forecast with the Escalade and other SUV models stealing the spotlight. However, the CT5 is in fact, the best-selling model the brand has when it comes to overall sales, with the CT5 seeing its sales increase ever since it first went into production back in 2019 (bucking a broader downward slide in sales across the sedan landscape.) Cadillac decided to reward this strong showing by giving the model a refresh for 2025 and has now extended it …

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2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus review by Ben Lewis

The times, they are a changin’ – especially for muscle car enthusiasts. We’ve been seeing lately a lot of “Final Editions” of V8 muscle cars, as the market is turning to turbo 4 and 6 cylinders, as well as hybrid and EV vehicles. That’s the bad news…the V8 seems to be on its last legs. The good news – carmakers on Dodge aren’t giving up on performance, they’re just taking it in new directions. One that’s especially interesting is the new Dodge Hornet R/T. It’s got a whole lot of cool stuff going on, from a plug-in hybrid turbo 4 …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD – Light Updates Polish Up Familiar Recipe

It was no secret that the Lexus IS was in need of a major revamp. The aging exterior styling looked like it was drawn by a mad axe killer and the interior suffered from technology that was rapidly falling behind the times (including the most frustrating way to get around an infotainment system this side of iDrive.) Lexus listened to the feedback it got from IS owners and they also wanted to make the car more appealing to young buyers. The end result is the 2024 Lexus IS and the company thinks that this version of the IS has a …

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Dodge Teases Next Generation Charger, Confirms Daytona Moniker For Possible EV Variant

When Dodge revealed that it was saying goodbye to the Charger and Challenger muscle cars, the performance brand promised that it still had a surprise or two up its sleeve. One of them was the all-electric SRT Daytona concept which wowed the crowds gathered at M1 raceway in Pontiac, Michigan. We had a bit of a wait since then, but Dodge has chosen to reveal (kinda) the next chapter of performance with several teaser images of the next-generation Charger.   Next-Generation Charger Pays Homage To The 1960s With the Challenger name still MIA for now, Dodge says these early images …

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A Year In Review – 2023 Best & Worst Drives, And What’s Next?

As 2023 is slowly coming to a close, we wanted to circle back and share some of the things that happened throughout the year and provide a glimpse into what we have planned for the new year starting with the Best & Worst Drives of 2023 that our Metro Detroit branch office experienced this year.   Best: 2022 Maserati MC20 Coupe (V6) In our Best category is the 2022 Maserati MC20 supercar. The MC20 is the last great expression of ICE performance for the Italian luxury car maker before it fully embraces pure BEVs. While a tri-motor Folgore model will …

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McLaren Unveils Renamed 2025 GTS, More Luxury and Performance Are On The Menu In This Refresh

The McLaren GT certainly caught our attention when we had the chance to sample one for 24 hours awhile back. This brief encounter allowed us to see the higher amounts of luxury and technology that McLaren infused into the car. However, progress and evolution are key motivators in the Grand Touring segment and McLaren has unveiled the updated 2025 McLaren GTS which adds more luxury performance and a new name for customers to remember too.   New Name Spearheads Light GTS Exterior Updates McLaren has always been known for not straying too far from a proven formula and that’s on …

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2024 Aston Martin Valhalla Creeps Closer To Production, Will Debut Next Year

It has been a long journey for the Aston Martin Valhalla with the company first unveiling it back in 2019 as the AM-RB 003. Alot has changed since that time with a pandemic and Aston’s very survival during that time taking center stage. However, the company has kept pushing forward with the Valhalla and the company has released new details about the car while also confirming that it will be entering production next year.   Valhalla Sharpens Its Performance Sword With V8 Power The Valhalla is the latest in Aston’s growing lineup of exotic supercars but while it’s easy to …

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Road Test Review – 2023 BMW M3 50 Jahre Edition – M3’s Golden Anniversary Homage Still Has Sizzle & Bite

In the 50 years that BMW’s M brand has terrorized race tracks around the world, the performance-focused sub-brand has undergone a number of key transformations as it attempted to maximize the performance that BMW products were capable of. It can be easy to forget that this gold standard of the performance-driving world once started out as a small in-house race shop. BMW has prepared a surprise to help celebrate the occasion, the 2023 BMW M3 50 Jahre Edition which helps celebrate the M3’s history, but are new styling touches enough to help this beast stand out in a crowd?   …

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2023 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo AWD review by Ben Lewis

Do you have friends that you always see around the holidays? For us, it seems like we usally end up reviewing Mazdaʻs CX-30 around this time of year – and itʻs always a great visit, because this is one of the best hatchback/crossovers around – especially for drivers. But in the past year weʻve made some great new friends, like the Toyota Corolla GR, and Hyundai Elantra N. So does the CX-30 still get the guest bedroom, or does it end up sleeping on the pull-out couch? Letʻs find out! Hot, High Hatch With the popularity of Crossovers and SUVʻs, …

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Road Test Review – 2023 MINI Clubman Untold Edition – Latest Special Edition MINI Crafts Its Own Story

When it comes to outlandish special edition offerings, few can top the creative minds over at BMW’s MINI brand. MINI has always been known for offering customers a strong roster of models that not only embrace their quirky British heritage but also offer an impressive array of options and features designed to help buyers personalize their MINI to suit their distinctive tastes. One of these is the 2023 MINI Clubman Untold Edition which not only celebrates the end of production for the Clubman model but also promises to show buyers the untold side of the model. But is the Untold …

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Hyundai Reveals 2024 Sonata Pricing, AWD Variant Starts At $30,000, N-Line Still Performance King

The 2024 Hyundai Sonata is ushering several key updates for the stylish four-door sedan and while it remains to be seen if this update will help provide a jolt to Sonata sales as a whole, Hyundai has revealed the final pricing ladder for the model which aims to make this stylish four-door a potent value play in a segment where design and performance have become the new benchmarks.   Sleek Styling & AWD Make Sonata Compelling Package Hyundai removed the base SE model from the Sonata lineup for 2024 and with its exit, the SEL model emerges as the new …

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2023 Honda Civic Sport HPD Sedan Review by Ben Lewis

Who doesn’t love Honda’s Civic? Well, ok, there may be a few haters, but the Civic has long been one of Honda’s most popular vehicles, scoring legions of fans, and millions of happy owners. Happy journalists too, We loved the new Civic Si when we tested it recently, and also loved the Touring model as well. Truth be told, like most cars, the Civic is not as inexpensive as it once was, both the Si and Touring models hovering around $30k. So, we thought, in the spirit of the affordable Civic that many of us grew up with, it was …

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First Look – Lotus Emeya & Lotus Eletre – New Lotus Models Aim To Catapult Firm To EV Age, Will They Succeed?

Lotus is preparing to make big moves in the EV vehicle segment. While the company cemented its history as an automaker that made lightweight vehicles that emphasized weight-cutting and exceptional handling, Lotus has also been on a proverbial rollercoaster in recent years with COVID-related challenges and a 2017 stock purchase by Chinese firm Geely being some of the twists and turns that have faced Lotus owners the past few decades. That said, Lotus is preparing to embark on a bold strategy and will focus all of its efforts on building a lineup of EV-only offerings with the Lotus Emira being …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Maserati MC20 – Maserati’s Return To Supercar Segment Marks End Of ICE Era

Maserati is the figurative traveler who’s facing a choice at the proverbial fork in the road. The Italian luxury automaker tried to embark on a push towards enhancing its sales, but while the Grecale and the Levante have certainly made their mark in the SUV segment, the broader sales picture is mixed at best. In the meantime, Maserati is also focusing on returning to some of the core things that helped it be an icon in the luxury segment, with performance and artistic flair being two prominent pillars. One example of this in action is the Maserati MC20, which launches …

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2023 Kia Forte GT review by Ben Lewis

It’s probably no surprise, but we’ve become a nation of SUVs and Crossovers. And Kia certainly makes their share – the Soul, Seltos, Sportage, Sorento and Telluride are all great vehicles. But there’s still a market for sedans, especially affordable ones. The Honda Civic, the Toyota Corolla and Kia Forte are all strong sellers. Even better, some of the manufacturers offer sporty versions for the enthusiast on a budget. The Civic Si comes to mind. And we also have another fun small sedan vying for your driver’s dollar – the Kia Forte GT. So, does it serve up bang for …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Hyundai Elantra N – Light Updates Keep This Hot Compact Ticking

The Hyundai Elantra N might not get as much attention in Hyundai showrooms as other members of the corporate team. But the sporty compact has managed to obtain a loyal following, and it now also has the distinction of being the only pure N model in Hyundai’s lineup (for now.) But does the 2023 Hyundai Elantra N retain its high amounts of sizzle even with the optional eight-speed automatic?   Elantra N Still Blurs Styling Lines, But We Love It Anyway The exterior styling of the Elantra N builds on some of the unique features and design choices that help …

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Hyundai Slashes Pricing For 2024 Ioniq 6 EV, Price Cuts Will Vary Depending On Trim Level

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 made a splash when it first came out awhile back. However, the model did have pricing that helped put it out of reach of some buyers despite some of the tech and poise that the sedan brought to the segment. Hyundai has kept these buyers in mind for 2024, and confirmed that the model will see price cuts acrosss the entire model family.   Ioniq 6’s New Price Cuts Aim To Enhance Sales With the Ioniq 6 being carried over unchanged for the new model year, the forementioned pricing changes are the main updates that will …

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2024 Subaru BRZ Pricing Revealed, Gets More Expensive But tS Is Coming Soon

Subaru has revealed official pricing for the 2024 BRZ sport coupe. While pricing is increasing for the new model year, Subaru is adding new features to the model including the debut of the all new tS model.   BRZ tS New Pinnacle Of Performance That Also Debuts EyeSight   Before we get into the pricing situation, we might as well talk about the biggest update for 2024, the debut of the BRZ tS. The tS is a spicier version of the BRZ and while it’s sadly not the formal STI model that many Subie fans were hoping for, it does …

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Nissan Hyper Force Concept Brings GT-R To EV Age, Please Build It Nissan

It’s hard to believe that the current generation Nissan GT-R is over 16 years old. Despite the model getting its fair share of refreshes and updates over the years, the core essentials are largely unchanged from when it debuted in 2007. Nissan knows that this tired soundtrack is starting to get warped like your favorite 8-track tape, and tightening fuel regulations will eventually force the company to do something drastic with the model. While we get to wait a few more years to get a clearer view of the GT-R’s future, Nissan has revealed one potential avenue at the Japan …

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Mazda Iconic SP Concept Is Our Best Preview Yet Of Company’s Performance EV Plans

When Mazda confirmed that it was expanding its presence in the all-electric segment, it was safe to assume that the Miata sports car would eventually conform to this new reality. But while the company has so far not released formal details about what this means production-wise, it has done the next best thing with the unveiling of the Mazda Iconic SP Concept, which drew plenty of stares at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.   Iconic SP Concept Draws Inspiration From European Icons At first glance, it’s hard to ignore the fact that Mazda designers took inspiration from classic European sports …

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The Honda Prelude Returns In Concept Form, Looks Production Ready And Eager For Corners

Buyers that grew up in the 1980s and 1990s will have fond memories of the Honda Prelude. The Prelude first appeared in 1978, but the model didn’t get its mojo until the 80s and the 90s when it transformed into an attractive, sporty, and capable two-door coupe. Weakening sales and the early rise in SUV demand forced Honda to stop producing it in 2001, but it appears that Honda is at least exploring a revival with the all-new Prelude concept.   Hybrid Powertrain Hides Beneath Prelude’s Sleek Bodywork Honda’s announcement at the Japan Mobility Show was sparse on formal details, …

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2023 LC 500 Drive Review: Lexus’s LFA Successor

2023 Lexus LC 500: Lessons From the LFA The 2023 Lexus LC 500 is a stunning embodiment of the automaker’s commitment to creating vehicles that seamlessly blend luxury and performance. This grand tourer coupe, first introduced in 2018, is a testament to Lexus’ dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and delivering an unforgettable driving experience. With its captivating design, potent powertrain, and impeccable interior, the LC 500 is a modern masterpiece that has earned its place among the elite in the luxury sports car segment. Exterior Design At first glance, the Lexus LC 500 is a true head-turner. Its low-slung, aggressive stance …

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Toyota Promises New Dawn, Teases Mystery Model To Prove Its Point

Toyota promises that the company is ready to embrace a new dawn, and it appears that the company is building on some of the progress that it has made with all-electric models, including the Bz4X EV CUV. However, Toyota also holds a number of cards up its sleeve, including a mysterious new model that was teased earlier today in an accompanying teaser image.   Mystery Vehicle Shows Its Headlights, Leaves Questions Unanswered The lone teaser image doesn’t reveal too much with the car hiding underneath a thick layer of shadows. Attempting to brighten the image via our photo editor software …

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2024 Subaru WRX TR Sharpens Up Driving Experience, Gets Improved Steering and Brembo Brakes

Subiefest has emerged as a premiere attraction for not only Subaru fans looking to get in touch with other Subaru owners but also getting a glimpse at new products from Subaru themselves. The trend continues with the company pulling the veil of secrecy off of the 2024 Subaru WRX TR, which benefits from a number of key upgrades but, sadly, no giant wing.   Performance Takes Center Stage In TR The 2024 WRX TR brings a number of key upgrades to the WRX, but performance will be taking center stage in the TR. While the turbocharged engine carries over largely …

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First Look Ride – Mullen FIVE & Mullen GT – Is There Substance Underneath The Flashy Wrapper?

Sometimes, it can be hard to keep track of all the startup companies that are emerging in the electric vehicle marketplace. While Tesla is still the benchmark that many of these upstarts strive to match, it’s often easier said than done. One of these firms trying to establish themselves as a legitimate Tesla competitor is Mullen Automotive and the broader firm Mullen USA. The company has had a rollercoaster history regarding its fortunes, but it thinks now is the time to strike. But is there substance beneath the corporate buzzwords and shiny sheet metal? We wanted to find out and …

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Toyota Goes Full Circle On Corolla Updates, Corolla Cross Nightshade and GR Corolla Premium Grade Confirmed

Toyota is preparing a two-pronged wave of updates for the iconic Corolla nameplate, with the 2024 GR Corolla and the 2024 Corolla Cross debuting new updates for the new model year as the pair attempt to inject new vigor into Corolla sales.   Corolla Cross Embraces The Nightshade Package, Premium Package Coming To GR Corolla   Toyota’s Nightshade lineup of models has already proven to be a sales success with buyers, and the company is extending the sinister charms to the Corolla Cross, which will be the latest model to feature a Nightshade Edition for 2024. Like other Nightshade models, …

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Aston Martin Valhalla’s F1 Derived Technology Pushes It Closer To Production, Will Appear In 2024

Aston Martin has recently been on a roll regarding products, with the British sports car maker launching the DB12 and the wild and extremely rare Valour sports car. However, the Valhalla supercar is one model we have not heard much about in a long time. Getting its name from the Norse word for heaven, the development of the supercar has been far from a heavenly experience for Aston. The car was first announced in 2019, with the company claiming that it would get a hybrid V6. However, COVID-19 forced the company to focus on more pressing matters before announcing in …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Volkswagen Arteon SEL R-Line Premium – The Final Curtain For VW’s Four-Door Coupe

Volkswagen may be shifting towards an all-electrified future that will have a heavy reliance on SUV and other utility vehicles, but that doesn’t mean the company is ready to leave other vehicle segments just yet. One notable example is the four-door coupe segment, where the 2024 Volkswagen Arteon continues its unassuming role as VW’s lone entry. While Arteon sales numbers have taken a pounding from encroaching CUV entries, Volkswagen has made some minor updates to the Arteon in an attempt to help it stay fresh before it enters retirement. But is this the proper send off Arteon fans have been …

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Road Test Review – 2024 Subaru Impreza RS – This Hatch Has The Moves To Succeed

When Subaru announced that the Impreza would ditch the sedan body style and focus on it being a hatchback-only experience for 2024, it certainly had us asking questions. For one thing, could we buy a four-door in time? (my wife was in the market for a new vehicle back then) and how will consumers respond to this radical transition. Thankfully, the Subaru faithful have responded positively to the changes, and after spending some time with the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS, we grew to like a hatchback-only future as well.   Impreza RS Is Ready For Fun Or Work The RS …

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2023 Toyota GR86 Review by Ben Lewis

There’s a song made famous by singer Etta James called “At Last” – about finally finding love. Well, we know that feeling. We’ve been wanting to drive a Toyota GR86 with a manual transmission since it was introduced for the 2022 model year. Well, so did a lot of other journalists, so we were pretty darn happy to drive a ’22 with the 6-speed automatic. Which as it turns out was a fantastic sports car. But for many of us, a true sports car still has three pedals, and no, the emergency brake does not count. So, when our turn …

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2025 Cadillac CT5 Refresh Debuts New Tech and Styling, Builds On Impressive Sales Performance

Cadillac may be preparing to enter an era where electrification and utility vehicles will play prominent roles in its long-term future. However, the brand is still paying attention to its sedan lineup. The 2025 Cadillac CT5 has been doing well in sales, and the brand has decided to refresh it for the new model year that aims to build on this performance while also giving it new vigor in its fight against rivals from BMW and Audi.   Refresh Brings Bolder Styling and Sportiness To CT5 Cadillac is currently focusing on the standard CT5 lineup with today’s announcement, and as …

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2023 Lexus IS 500 Premium review by Ben Lewis

2023 Lexus IS 500 Premium review by Ben Lewis Do you remember the original Mad Max movie? We see Max, aka Mel Gibson driving the Pursuit Special, a heavily modified Australian Falcon GT, that in the movie they call “The last of the V8 Interceptors.” It’s funny that the thought popped in my head when I drove the Lexus IS 500 with its massively powerful 5.0-liter V8. But I did wonder, how much longer will we have cars like this? While we seem to be marching towards a world of EVs, many of the IS competitors have swapped a naturally …

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2024 Hyundai Elantra Brings New Front Fascia & Technology To Compact Segment

The Hyundai Elantra has been a venerable entry for the Korean car giant with the compact four-door doing a good job of wearing many different hats including a full-on track attack weapon when equipped as a N badged model. However, Hyundai knows that change and evolution always go hand in hand and it has unveiled the 2024 Elantra which brings updates to areas where the model needed it the most.   A New Face Adds Freshness To Elantra A prominent example of this change is the new front fascia that adorns the Elantra. Hyundai claims that the nose has “shark …

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Pricing Comparison Test – 2023 Mazda MX-5 Club vs 2023 Toyota GR86 Which Is The Best Purchase?

The 2023 Mazda MX-5 is an icon in the affordable sports car ranks. The tiny two-door is the classic example of what happens when you combine a solid platform with simple ergonomics and the fun that comes with a droptop. But what happens when the MX-5 is forced to go head to head with the 2023 Toyota GR86 when it comes time to decide between the two for a potential purchase?   MX-5 and GR86 Are Both Finely Honed Instruments Of Fun   Look past the Mazda’s ability to flip its lid up and down (the GR86 has no convertible …

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Rolls Royce Debuts Amethyst Droptail, Features Aerodynamically Crafted Wood Accents

We were intrigued with the Rolls Royce Droptail when the original La Rose Noire model first appeared. Just as we were about to sink our teeth into that model, Rolls Royce unveiled another Droptail, the Amethyst model, which adds its own share of bespoke touches to the elegant convertible.   Amethyst One Of Four Special Creations Rolls Royce claims that the Amethyst is one of four special custom models the company created for an unnamed but probably wealthy client. While the La Rose embraced vivid red hues, the Amethyst goes for a subtler shade of duotone color with the main …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Lexus LC 500 – Luxury & V8 Power Get Minor Updates For New Model Year

The 2023 Lexus LC 500 has always been in a very peculiar place in the two-door GT segment. The model seeks to dethrone many of the segment heavyweights, but it brings an old-school charm to its look that aims to appeal to a wide range of customers. Lexus is so confident in the model that it has carried over mostly unchanged for the 2023 model year. But is this policy of light updates a good long-term solution in a segment where rapid evolution has taken hold?   LC 500 Sails Full Steam Ahead Into The New Model Year As mentioned, …

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First Look – 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse – Playing Second Fiddle Isn’t So Bad In This Pony

When the 2024 Ford Mustang lineup made its debut late last year, it was evident that a broader transition was taking place. The Mustang’s two bitter rivals (Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro) were all preparing to enter retirement due to electrification for the former and a collapse in sales for the bowtie brigade. This means that the Mustang will once again be all alone in the traditional pony car segment and will have the market largely to itself for the foreseeable future. But what will this segment domination formally look like? If the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse is to …

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2025 Ford Mustang GTD Blurs The Line Between Track And Street, Brings 800 Horsepower To The Party

Ford’s venerable Mustang has always been the defacto symbol of performance. It has been a champion of rear-wheel drive, V8 power, and a touch of Americana (the Mustang Mach-E EV being the exception to the rule. However, tightening fuel regulations are rapidly closing in on the Mustang. Before the company is forced to make the model formally comply, it has once again partnered with racing firm Multimatic to produce the all-new 2025 Ford Mustang GTD.   Mustang GTD Slays The Rumormill & The Track Before the model was unveiled, wild rumors (as well as an ill-timed leak) pointed to the …

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2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 limited review by Ben Lewis

Hyundai and sibling Kia have been killing it lately, from the sporty Elantra N sedan to the Kia Telluride 3-row SUV, each product has been impressive. But probably the most impressive to us, are the EV’s. We’ve tested the Ioniq 5 and loved the combination of utility, quirky style and performance. And now have the Ioniq 6 with added quirky style and performance – but a loss in the utility department. Is it another home run? Let’s put it up to bat. Meet the Streamliner Wow, indeed. We love that Hyundai dances to its own tune – the new Toyota …

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2024 Aston Martin DB12 Volante Glides Into Monterey, Brings Droptop Fun To DB12 Lineup

The Aston Martin DB12 coupe was a welcome evolution over the aging DB11, with the model getting a massive suite of upgrades designed to enhance the Grand Touring (GT) experience. But what if you’re a sun worshipper wanting some droptop fun to accompany your GT ownership experience? Aston Martin has filled the missing piece to this puzzle with the all-new 2024 DB12 Volante.   DB12 Volante Shares Coupe Underpinnings, But Has Distinct Personality At first glance, the DB12 Volante and the DB12 coupe appear largely similar, with the exterior styling being largely carried over (save for the folding roof) and …

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Fisker Unveils Bold Plans For Future, Debuts Alaska Pickup, Ronin Supercar and Pear

Fisker showed that it was off to a strong start when the company unveiled the Ocean all-electric SUV. The Ocean was a glimpse into how CEO Henrik Fisker would take full advantage of his second attempt at the EV market (after prior failures with VLF and the original Fisker company.) However, if the company wants to reach the maximum number of customers, it would have to expand the model lineup. Fisker has managed to do just that in a big way, with several models making their debuts during an event the company threw in California to help provide the Ocean …

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2024 Nissan Z Nismo Gets Reworked Aero Package, 420-horsepower V6 Brings The Fight To Rivals

The Nissan Z made a splash when it first appeared late last year. The stylish coupe helped breathe new life into a nameplate that was suffering from stagnation and the effects of power creep as rivals surpassed it in performance and technology. However, our brief drive with the Z also had us wondering what would happen if the model got more power and some of the unique benefits that come from the Nismo package. The Japanese auto giant has delivered the answer with the all-new 2024 Nissan Z Nismo.   Tweaked Z Nismo Styling Hides Track Ready Potential The core …

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Road Test Review -2023 Volkswagen Jetta Sport – Affordable Performance In A German Package

The Volkswagen Jetta is often considered to be the outsider looking in. With the GTI and Golf R lineup commanding the bulk of the attention from a shrinking pool of buyers, Volkswagen knows it has to think outside the box when it comes to occasionally when it comes to keeping things fresh for the Jetta. One of these efforts is the 2023 Jetta Sport which aims to inject value-focused performance into the lineup. But is that enough to help reel buyers who would otherwise gravitate toward crossovers?   Jetta Sport Styling Walks Proverbial Tightrope The Jetta Sport is one rung …

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2023 Dodge Challenger & Charger Mopar Edition Make Surprise Appearance, Add Twist To Send Off

The Dodge Challenger and Charger are preparing to end production, and the ongoing Last Call series of models are celebrating various points in the history of both models before reaching the end of production. However, Dodge is out to prove that it can still provide a Mopar Edition-themed twist to the story and has unveiled the 2023 Dodge Challenger and Charger Mopar Edition.   Mopar Edition Brings Aftermarket Looks To Duo This is not the first time that Dodge has offered a Mopar Edition Challenger or Charger, but this is the first time that the brand has offered the two …

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2024 Subaru BRZ tS Debuts, Still Not An STI Model But It’s Pretty Close And Brings EyeSight To Manuals

Subaru fans have longed for an STI version of the BRZ sports coupe. While Subaru is still not giving those loyalists a formal STI offering, they decided to give them the next best thing, an all-new model, with the unveiling of the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS.   Upgraded BRZ Suspension Aims To Make Car Skate On Tarmac While the BRZ tS is not a formal STI model in name, it does come with several STI-sourced upgrades, including a beefed-up STI suspension with Hitachi dampers and a Brembo brake kit with gold-painted calipers at all four corners. The car also gets …

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Volkswagen Celebrates 40th Year Of GLI Production With Limited Production 40th-Anniversary Edition

With all of the headlines that the Volkswagen GTI gets, it can be easy to forget that there is another turbocharged Volkswagen badged budget performance model, the Jetta GLI. First making its debut in 1984, the GLI attempted to blend the GTI’s traits in a slightly more sedate four-door sedan wrapper. While VW’s marketing department has never given the model not as much attention as it should have, the four-door has still managed to garner a legion of fans, and VW is looking to pay homage with the limited production 2024 40th-Anniversary Edition GLI.   Styling Package Adds Retro Flair, …

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2022 Subaru BRZ Limited 6M review by Ben Lewis

When it comes to driver’s cars, we love a brand that stays true to form. Oh, sure the newest Porsche 911 is huge compared to the original, but when it gets down to brass tacks, it’s still a sports car, pure and true. Back in 2013, Subaru and Toyota worked together to create a sports car, and the BRZ and FR-S respectively were huge hits – serving up the true sports car credo of front engine, rear wheel drive, in a tight responsive package. A bit larger than a Miata, a bit smaller and lighter than something like a Nissan …

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Maserati Celebrates End Of V8 Production With Ghibli 334 and Levante V8 Ultima Editions

It’s hard to believe that Maserati has continuously made V8 engines for over 64 years, with the eight-cylinder powerplant being responsible for some of the most iconic moments in the Italian brand’s long and illustrious history. However, the push for electrification and tightening emissions laws in Europe, is forcing Maserati to end V8 production next year. Before the production lines fall silent, the company is unleashing one last wave of V8-powered models, the 2024 Ghibli 334 and Levante V8 Ultima Editions. Ultima Editions Promise Epic Retirement Party For Old-School Performance As the name implies, both the Ghibli and Levante Ultima …

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2024 Aston Martin Valour Mixes V12 Smoothness With Old School Manual Driving Fun, Only 110 To Be Built

Aston Martin is preparing to retire the legendary V12 engine from its model lineup, with the majestic twelve-cylinder being axed due to encroaching fuel regulations. We thought the DBS 770 Ultimate would be the V12’s swan song, but the British supercar maker has confirmed that we were wrong, and that the engine will play its final show in another model, the all-new 2024 Aston Martin Valour Victor Who? Aston Martin Looks To The Past For Valour Styling Direction At first glance, it’s easy to write off the Valour as a lightly reskinned version of the Victor coupe that’s currently sitting …

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Aston Martin and Lucid Motors Announce Partnership, Will Source EV Components From Lucid

Aston Martin has announced that it intends to create a future that BEV models will eventually dominate. The main question we had was where the company would get EV components for its models. The company has revealed the answer and has killed two birds with one figurative stone by extending its existing partnership with Mercedes-Benz and entering a new partnership with EV maker Lucid Motors.   Lucid To Supply The EV Backbone For Aston’s Green Future The deal between the two companies will see Aston Martin pay Lucid $232 million in shares and cash, with the upstart firm providing Aston …

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First Look – 2024 Maserati GranTurismo Modena – This Maserati Finally Has The Tech To Go With Its Looks

When we last saw the Maserati GranTurismo, it was in a rather sorry state. Its exterior styling (despite updates) had roots that dated all the way back to the George W. Bush administration, while its technology had just as many cobwebs to deal with. As a result, the outgoing GranTurismo was an odd duck that was rapidly falling behind rivals. Maserati knew that it couldn’t go on like this any longer, and it has unveiled the 2024 Maserati GranTurismo, which gets all-new styling while also getting a massive infusion of new technology. But is all of this enough to help …

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First Look – 2024 Lotus Emira First Edition – Lotus Says Farewell to ICE Powertrains With Best Sports Car Yet

The 2024 Lotus Emira is shifting things over at Lotus in multiple regards. The Emira is not only replacing the aging Evora in Lotus’s lineup, but it will also be the last ICE-powered Lotus to be offered before the British sports car maker fully switches over to BEV models only. We recently had a chance to spend some time with the Emira at a recent Cars & Coffee event at our local Lotus dealer, and we came away very impressed with what we saw during our brief encounter with Lotus’s newest sports car offering.   Emira Has Porsche In Its …

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Maserati Introduces GranTurismo PrimaSerie Limited Edition Model To North America Only 50 To Be Produced

Maserati is celebrating the 75th anniversary of the GranTurismo, and to help ring in the celebrations with a bang, the Italian luxury car maker is introducing the all-new 2024 Maserati GranTurismo PrimaSerie to U.S. shores with the model helping to spearhead the GranTurismo’s U.S. sales launch.   GranTurismo PrimaSerie Is Rolling Tribute To The Past When one looks at the all-new GranTurismo, it becomes clear that Maserati is out to reshape how its fanbase thinks about luxury. The crisp styling, as well as the strong emphasis on curves and lines, drives home the point that the GranTurismo is aiming to …

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2024 Polestar 2 Gets Significant Updates And Minor Bump Up In Price

The 2024 Polestar 2 is getting some major updates for 2024, with the model getting more power and range, all for a relatively small boost in the asking price, which Polestar thinks is a good deal for buyers as the company prepares to expand its EV presence.   Polestar 2 Gets More Power And Range, What’s Not To Love? A major update that the Polestar 2 is receiving for 2024 is that it will get more power and range from its electrified hardware. The base model gets newly instituted rear-wheel drive and a new rear-mounted electric motor that makes 299 …

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Aston Martin DB12 Pitches The V12, Embraces New V8 And Next Generation Technology

The aging Aston Martin DB11 was an elegant example of the time-honored tradition of combining V12 performance with Grand Touring luxury. However, The V12 couldn’t keep up with fuel regulations, and some of the interior technology was starting to age very rapidly. Aston Martin is out to solidify its place in the Grand Touring ranks with the unveiling of the all-new Aston Martin DB12, which will help usher Aston into a new generation of GT luxury.   V8 Is More Powerful Than Outgoing V12 The big story here is that contrary to what the 12-part of its moniker seems to …

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2023 VW Golf GTI S review by Ben Lewis

VW released an all-new eight-generation GTI for 2022, and we thoroughly enjoyed its great fun to drive qualities and practicality. But time doesn’t stand still, and with the recent introductions of serious performance competition, including the Hyundai Elantra N and the Toyota Corolla GR we were wondering if the Golf GTI can still wear the hot hatch performance crown. Time for another road test!    Welcome to the Evolution Changes are few since last year, so let’s recap what you get. Although this 8th gen is an all-new design, it couldn’t be anything but a GTI. Look at a previous …

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2023 Toyota GR Corolla Core Review by Ben Lewis

We’ve recently tested some interesting high performance vehicles, like the Kia EV6 GT, and Volvo S60 Recharge – all pointing to a direction in the future of hybrid and EV being the enthusiast’s choice, right? Not so fast.  We just spent a week in the Toyota Corolla GR – a fascinating confection of both old-world performance and modern technology, featuring good-old gas fueled technology. And this little car is one of the most thrilling vehicles we have driven in a long time. Yes, a Corolla. Buckle up, we’re going for a ride. A Corolla on Steroids We’ve always liked the …

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Road Test Review – 2022 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition – The Budget Alternative To The GR Corolla?

The Toyota GR Corolla is a feisty track focused corner carving machine that aims to take names and earn spots on the time trial charts thanks to its turbocharged three-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive and a time honored six-speed manual. But what if your an enthusiast that wants a performance focused Corolla but you don’t have the money for the full GR Corolla experience? Toyota thinks it has the perfect solution for these buyers with the 2022 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition (our example was a late 2022 model). But can a performance suspension and snazzy paint help this Corolla be the …

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Aston Martin Poised To Debut Next Gen DB, Promises “Grand Is Not Enough”

Aston Martin is preparing to unleash a new generation of high performance grand touring vehicles into the luxury car segment, with the British sports car maker confirming that the next DB is coming sooner than many people realize with a new pool of teaser images pointing to a very potent surprise for loyalists and new buyers alike.   How Grand Will This New DB Be? For now, Aston Martin isn’t divulging too many details about the new DB and the company’s wafer thin press release didn’t reveal too many clues either. What is known, is that this upcoming DB will …

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Bentley Speed Edition 12 Special Edition Models Cover All Nameplates, Celebrate W12 Engine

Bentley’s long-running 6.0-liter W12 engine has played a number of roles over the years. While the twin-turbocharged wonder is primarily known for its time in Bentley badged vehicles, it has also appeared in the Volkswagen Phaeton, Audi A8 and even the Spyker C12 La Turbie and Zagato models. With this diverse of a resume, it’s no wonder why the W12 has become an icon in the automotive world. Sadly, its time in the spotlight is rapidly coming to an end with Bentley confirming that it will be ending production of the bespoke engine in 2024. Before it goes away though, …

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Acura Reveals 2024 Integra Type S Pricing, Confirms Pre-Orders Will Start May 11th

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S is shaping up to be a wild and potent tribute to some of the 1990s nostalgia that the original Integra was known for. With a turbocharged four-cylinder producing over 300-hp and enough style to make your camera lens melt, this breed of Integra certainly has all the right stuff. However, the one item we didn’t know about was pricing, but that’s now changed with the Japanese luxury car maker revealing the final pricing for the spicy compact.   Integra Type S Shoots For Value Dollar, Aims To Make Wallets Sing With Joy Pricing for …

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2024 Bentley Continental GT and Flying Spur Enter The Summer With Minor Updates

Bentley is preparing updates for all of its model lineup with the company confirming that it will be rolling out these changes gradually. The bulk of them though will be focused on the company’s long-running Continental GT as well as the four-door Flying Spur with both models getting some attention for the new model year.   Continental and Flying Spur Get New Depth For Azure Trim The Azure trim was meant to be an offering that promoted well-being behind the wheel with an interior that was designed to deliver a “stress free” experience. The exterior of the GT and GTC …

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2024 McLaren 750S Succeeds 720S, Adds Polish To Performance Focused Track Weapon

  McLaren promised that a successor to the 720S was coming but kept the key details tightly under wraps, but at long last we finally get to see the next chapter in McLaren performance, with the British supercar maker formally unveiling the 2024 McLaren 750S which aims to deliver more performance, luxury and style to bespoke supercar buyers.  750S Exterior and Interior Benefit From Upgrades The exterior styling of the 750S retains some of the core DNA that defined its predecessor but a new front bumper helps channel cold air into the redesigned air intakes which are narrower and more …

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2023 Kia EV6 GT review by Ben Lewis

Of all the manufacturers, Kia and its sibling Hyundai seem to really be on a roll. And for the Asian nameplate manufacturers, it’s really pushing the EV envelope with loads of great vehicles. One of the best is the Kia EV6we tested recently. With 225 horsepower and a range of 310 miles it’s the sweet spot in the lineup. Unless you’re an enthusiast that is, because at the top of the line, there’s the EV6 GT model with 576 horsepower and allegedly the kind of performance that humbles the most expensive European models, let alone most EV’s. So, we had …

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Aston Martin DBS 770 Ultimate Volante Drops The Top On Performance, It’s Already Sold Out

When Aston Martin first introduced the DBS 770 Ultimate coupe, it promised that this model would be the swan song for the aging 6.0-liter V12 that helped define Aston Martin’s modern era. However, while the world got to see the coupe, Aston Martin held the droptop Volante model close to the vest. That’s now changed with the British sports car maker revealing the DBS 770 Ultimate Volante for the whole world to see.   Same Performance Inspired Styling, Now With A Foldable Roof At its core, the DBS 770 Ultimate Volante doesn’t stray too far from the coupe version when …

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Bentley Continental Le Mans Collection Celebrates 2003 Win, Only 48 To Be Produced

Bentley might not hit your radar when it comes to Le Mans competition but it was over 20 years ago when the brand last won the iconic racing event. To celebrate this milestone, Bentley revealed that it will be producing 48 examples of the Le Mans Collection Continental before ending production of the sleek tribute model. Le Mans Collection Hits Victory Lane In Style At first glance, these 48 cars might appear to be nothing more than a styling package with each one featuring a large “7” in the front grille as well as a coat of Verdant Green paint …

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2024 Acura Integra Type S Reinvents Fast & Furious Performance, Type R In Cocktail Wear

When Acura confirmed that it was developing the 2024 Integra Type S, we assumed that it would not only be a throwback to the 1990s, but that it would also take the Type R’s best performance bits and add its own unique ingredients to the mix. The brand proved this assumption to be largely correct with the latest member of the Type S family mixing old and new traits together into one cohesive package.   Integra Type S Wants To Party Like Its 1999! The exterior styling of the Integra Type S shares some core themes with the standard Integra …

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2023 Lexus LC500 Coupe Review by Ben Lewis

There’s good design and then there’s great design. Recently Lexus asked if we’d like to test the LC 500, and it took a little looking to find out it’s been over 5 years since we were last in one. So, does one of the most gorgeous cars we’ve ever tested hold up over time? Let’s find out! Stunning is as Stunning Does Well, in the past 5 years, we’ve seen pretty much of an overhaul of the brand, just about every SUV (UX, NX,RX, LX) are new, and the IS sedans got a big refresh. And they all are leaning …

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Maserati GranTurismo Luce and Prisma One-offs Celebrates Iconic Past, Previews What’s To Come

The 2023 Maserati GranTurismo is making its appearance at the 2023 Milan Design Week extravaganza. Maserati wanted to make a splash and has chosen to not only pay homage to the past, but also preview its future with the unveiling of the GranTurismo Luce and Prisma.   Italian DNA But Distinct GranTurismo Personalities The GranTurismo Prisma and Luce were created by Maserati’s Fuoriserie department which is responsible for handling unique customer requests and serves largely in the same vein as Aston Martin’s Q-Division and its ability to create wild one-off models. The GranTurismo Prisma is the first of the duo …

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2023 Hyundai Elantra N Review by Ben Lewis

This may be the era of the SUV, but there’s still great news for those who like cars – especially affordable performance cars. Within the last year or so, we’ve seen an all-new Civic Si and Type R, Toyota GR Corolla and VW GTI. Oh, and the latest player, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra N. Did we say Hyundai? You bet. The N moniker is somewhat recent, having appeared first on the quirky Veloster hatchback and the Kona small crossover. But the real meat of the enthusiast market is going to be sedans and hatchbacks, so we’re happy to welcome the …

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2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 Crosses 1,000 hp Barrier, Starts At $96,666

Dodge unveiled six Last Call models that focused on celebrating the Challenger and Charger legacy, each focusing on a distinct theme. Some focused on celebrating design and style, while others, like the King Daytona and the Black Ghost, put the hammer down on performance. After a long teaser campaign (and engineering challenges), Dodge has saved the best for last, the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170, the true pinnacle of performance for the Challenger.   SRT Demon 170 Revives The Demon Moniker For One More Ride When we last saw the Demon a few years ago, it was supposed to …

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Acura Confirms Performance Figures For 2024 Integra Type S, Makes 320 Horsepower and Debuts In April

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S is shaping up to be a potent introduction to summer when the spicy compact makes its way to dealerships. In the meantime, Acura has continued to deliver a slow wave of teasers including this latest one which reveals that the Integra Type S will make over 300-hp while also confirming that it will be debuting next month.   Potent Type S Performance Coming To An Acura Dealer Near You A key pillar for the upcoming Integra Type S is performance, with the company revealing that the model will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged …

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2023 Acura TLX Type S PMC Edition Gets Batman Inspired Gotham Gray Matte Paint, Limited To 50 Examples

When Acura promised to give the TLX a pinch of NSX supercar flair, the company followed through with the TLX Type S PMC Edition and some of the colors that came with it, including the latest addition to the color roster, Gotham Grey Matte.   Bruce Wayne, Your Acura TLX Has Arrived Even Batman needs a break from the Batmobile, and the TLX S PMC Edition is shaping up to be a compelling candidate. Like other PMC Editions, this Gotham-hued example will be limited to 50 units and will continue to be a largely designed-focused creation. In addition to the …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Lexus RC350 F Sport – Light Updates Keep This Coupe Fresh

The 2023 Lexus RC350 F Sport is an interesting entry in the luxury coupe segment. While the aggressive exterior styling projects sporty driving and track-ready prowess, the RC350 prefers to cruise through the motions with the range-topping V8-powered F model taking on formal track duty. But while the mainstream RC’s approach to the slow life has helped it maintain a presence in the marketplace, it’s also no secret that the model is rapidly aging and losing ground to rivals. But does the RC lineup as a whole still have a few tricks up its sleeve to help it stay fresh …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Hyundai Elantra N – Is This The Korean Civic Si?

Hyundai’s N division is out to prove that performance can come in all shapes and sizes. While the funky-looking Veloster N was put out to pasture due to declining sales, the company is hoping that the Elantra N can bring the fight to the Honda Civic Si and even the Volkswagen GTI. But is the 2023 Hyundai Elantra N the perfect anti-hero in a sub-segment long dominated by Volkswagen and Honda?   Elantra N Styling Takes Some Getting Used To The 2023 Hyundai Elantra N is carried over from the 2022 model year, and as a result, it gets no …

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2023 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo AWD Premium Plus Hatchback review by Ben Lewis

Everybody has the little things they like to be picky about. We have friends who are wine lovers who scoff at our choices of the crushed grape. We’re snobby about cars. Perfect example, we recently tested the Mazda CX-5, a non turbo model, and were delighted with the sportiness of it. You could pay a lot for the turbo version, but we didn’t think it warranted it. So, when Mazda offered us our choice the sporty Mazda 3 hatchback, we did a 180, and send turbo please! Our gut told us, in this little guy, in thrust we trust. So, …

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Dodge Releases Sinister Teaser Of Final “Last Call” Challenger Model, Promises To Be Epic

Dodge’s “Last Call” run of Challenger and Charger models have proven to be very good sendoffs for the iconic duo as they make their way into retirement to make room for Stellantis’s EV future. However, one “Last Call” model has been noticeably absent from the Challenger family with Dodge reps admitting that early prototypes had a tendency to make the engines explode. After remedying that flaw, Dodge is now finally ready to reveal it and has launched a series of teasers leading up to its debut in Las Vegas in March.   We Spy With Our Little Red Eyes A …

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2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Review by Ben Lewis

One of the most amazing brand turnarounds have to be Hyundai and its sibling, Kia. What were once inexpensive but durable vehicles that were low on desirability, are now some of the most exciting, interesting and leading edge in the marketplace. And the perfect example is the Ioniq 5 EV. Not only is it a ground breaker for the brand, but it’s also making people think about EV’s who might never have considered one before. How does it do it? Let’s take a look! Unmistakable Design Hyundai started by making the Ioniq look like nothing else from the maker before. …

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Road Test Review – 2023 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus – Mazda’s Lone Sedan Still Has Charm And Performance

Mazda is in a very interesting place right now. The Japanese auto giant has always been known for offering buyers a unique blend of value and performance. However, changing sales dynamics and a surge in SUV demand have forced Mazda to alter its sales plans, with the company putting a greater emphasis on SUVs. That has come at the cost of some of their sedan entries, with the Mazda6 being axed a few years ago. The 2023 Mazda3 is now the lone sedan entry, but does the compact four-door still have the magic needed to help it retain its enviable …

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2023 Infiniti Q50 Black Opal Edition Debuts Color Changing Paint, Will Have A Limited Production Run

The 2023 Infiniti Q50 may be an aging offering in the luxury car segment, but the luxury brand still has a few tricks up its sleeve to help keep the long-running model fresh in the eyes of customers. In the case of the all-new 2023 Infiniti Q50 Opal Edition, it gets an all-new color-shifting paint scheme that allows it to draw plenty of attention to itself while also basking in the rarity that often comes with a limited production run.   Black Opal Edition Color Shifting Paint Is New Take On Familiar Gimmick With the bulk of the 2023 Infiniti …

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2024 BMW M3 CS Storms The Track With More Power, Louder Styling And Less Weight

When BMW released the first-ever M3 CS model in 2018, the German luxury car giant claimed that the CS would be the pinnacle of M3 performance, with the 2018 CS making 430 hp and blending it all with the tried and true rear-wheel drive layout. The 2024 M3 CS aims to continue the legacy, but it does so in a big way, with all-wheel drive coming to the CS for the first time ever.   CS Styling Is Ready For The Track The core styling for the 2024 BMW M3 CS is carried over from the standard M3, including the …

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2024 Aston Martin DBS 770 Ultimate Is V12 Powered Swan Song To Iconic Model, Comes Loaded With Upgrades

The Aston Martin DBS was always considered the last word on performance regarding the iconic DB line of cars. The nameplate made its most recent return on the axed DB9, and it managed to solider on into the DB11 (Aston Martin skipped the ten and jumped straight to the DB11). However, the company knows that the V12’s days are numbered, and it has been celebrating its impending retirement not with a whimper but with a very loud bang. We first saw this on the V12 Vantage, and now the 2024 DBS 770 Ultimate will be the figurative last word both …

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2022 Audi A4 Sedan review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the Audi S4 sedan and were blown away by the beautiful sedan’s stunning performance and luxo interior. So, we wondered, can you get the same kind of thrills from the less powerful, less expensive 2022 A4 sedan? Let’s find out. Aggressive and Stylish Like the S4, the A4 makes a bold first impression. In fact, you’d have to be an Audi-phile to know our model was the less expensive model. You get the same segmented LED running lights framing the hexagonal headlights. The same large – but not over the top – grille, and lower side intakes. …

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2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray Adds AWD and Electrification To Performance Icon

The Chevrolet Corvette has always been the ultimate example of American performance. But not too long ago, it would have been blasphemy to suggest that electrification or even hybrid technology would find its way to the Vette, with GM reps in the 1990s and 2000s scoffing at such an idea despite making the occasional concept. But at long last, after a few teases, it’s finally happening with the unveiling of the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, which brings AWD, electrification, and a pinch of flair to the sports car segment.    E-Ray Is More Than Just Electrification Chevrolet has big plans …

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2024 Nissan GT-R T-Spec And Nismo Make Apperance In Japan, Bring Subtle Improvements To Long-Running Model

The Nissan GT-R has had one of the longest production runs in the sports car segment. The GT-R, in its current form, first appeared in the mid-2000s and was last updated in 2019. After vanishing from the U.S. market in 2022, Nissan brought it back as a 2023 model (skipping the 2022 model year outright) and has now used the 2024 model year to reveal the most significant updates that the GT-R has received since a similar suite of tweaks back in 2017.   New Suit Of Clothes Makes This GT-R Better Than Ever While the core shape of the …

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2022 Audi S4 Sedan review by Ben Lewis

We recently tested the BMW M340i xDrive, and loved the intoxicating blend of performance and practicality. But there’s more than one Great White shark swimming in the Euro-sedan Ocean, and one that’s a direct competitor to that Bimmer is the Audi S4. So does the Audi put the bite on the BMW, or vice versa? Let’s find out. Stunning Design The S4 makes a bold first impression, with segmented LED running lights framing the hexagonal headlights. Like most manufacturers, Audi is a member of the big grille club, but like the BMW, it’s done tastefully here, with lower side intakes …

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McLaren Officially Axes 720S Supercar, Artura Lone Remaining Member Of Supercar Series

Following a small flurry of rumors, McLaren has confirmed that it has officially axed the current-generation 720S supercar as the British supercar maker seeks to add more hybrids and EVs to its lineup of world-class performance machines.   720S Leaves Big Shoes To Fill The 720S’s departure leaves some huge shoes to fill, especially in the performance department. We even had a chance to briefly experience the 720S during a weekend office visit. The 720S was always considered the most potent “mainstream” McLaren in the company’s supercar lineup and was only occasionally eclipsed by some of the wild limited production …

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Chevrolet Teases Corvette E-Ray, First Ever Production Hybrid Vette To Be Revealed January 17th

The Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray is poised to make its debut on January 17th, but before that happens, the bow-tie brigade has blessed us with another teaser for the green-infused performance machine which takes full advantage of Jack Frost and his snowy wares.   E-Ray Tester Promises To Debut Stealth Mode The brief teaser that Chevrolet released is a true blink or miss it affair, and while the rapid camera cuts make it difficult to see precise details, there are still a few things that will make this Vette stand out from its mainstream siblings. A major item is the addition …

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

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

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Dodge To Unveil Final “Last Call” Challenger Model In Las Vegas March 20th, Promises To Rewrite The Performance Landscape

While most of us are entering the new year with a fresh start and a proverbial clean slate, Dodge still has one final piece of unfinished business to attend to unveiling the final “Last Call” Challenger model. The mysterious Challenger was initially supposed to debut at this week’s SEMA show and was even teased during the 2022 Woodward Dream Cruise. But supply problems forced Dodge to cancel its SEMA appearance, with different rumors suggesting that the performance brand’s engineers were running into unforeseen challenges creating it. It appears that Dodge has finally overcome these hurdles and confirmed that it would …

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