NEW TRUCKS

Road Test Review – 2020 GMC Sierra 2500 HD AT4 – By Carl Malek

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It’s hard to deny the love affair that buyers have developed for rugged light duty trucks like the dune slaying Ford Raptor, the Ram Rebel 1500, as well as the Chevrolet Silverado Trailboss. With these models becoming key cogs for their respective brands in terms of sales, it only seems natural to extend this magic to their heavy duty counterparts. The Ram Power Wagon, The Ford Super Duty Tremor, and the Nissan Titan XD Pro 4-X were the early shots into this endeavor and naturally GMC had to issue a rebuttal of their own with the Sierra HD AT4. But …

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2020 Hyundai Venue Road Test Review by Ben Lewis

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2020 Hyundai Venue SEL Review Here’s a term you don’t here that much anymore. Basic transportation. You probably remember them, usually a small car, no frills, no thrills, just get me to work (or school) and back. Thrifty and reliable. Well, those don’t really exist anymore. Part of that is good – comprehensive safety is becoming standard equipment on just about all vehicles. And with almost everyone using a smartphone, connectivity is important. And oh yeah, might as well make it a small SUV/Crossover – versatility and practicality won’t take a back seat anymore. So that’s opened the door for …

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2020 Infiniti QX80 Edition 30 – Off-Road Test Review By Matt Barnes

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Like Lexus and Acura, Infiniti has been around for quite a while now and they are no longer new players in the game. What does thirty years of experience building luxury vehicles stack up in the new Infiniti QX80? To celebrate 30 years of Infiniti for 2020, Infiniti is offering an Edition 30 Package throughout its lineup. In the case of the QX80 Luxe we received for review, the package includes 22-inch forged dark aluminum alloy wheels, black mesh grill, dark chrome exterior trim, black mirror caps, additional badges, graphite headliner, and 1st row illuminated EDITION 30 kick plates. When …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Lexus GX 460 Luxury – By Carl Malek

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The landscape has certainly changed in the SUV landscape over the past 30 years. Once known for being rugged functional workhorses that preferred to let their capability and off-road credentials do the talking, the priorities have flipped completely on their heads for buyers with comfort and technology taking center stage. But amid standout entries like the Lincoln Aviator, Acura MDX, and the Cadillac XT6, there are still some old school centric entries remaining that aim to win buyers over with a taste of what SUVs used to be defined by. One of these is the Lexus GX 460 which is …

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2020 Hyundai Kona Ultimate FWD by Ben Lewis

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Small SUV’s are a big thing, and they keep on getting bigger. And they’re not just aiming for small SUV and crossover buyers, they’re going after small car buyers too. The new Mazda CX30 for example, is more a tall hatch than anything else. The Hyundai Kona could fit into that mold as well. It definitely has SUV styling cues, but the size certainly wouldn’t turn off buyers coming from small cars. And as a bonus, this is one of the most fun small SUV’s to drive. Spending a week in a Kona is a much fun as…. well, a …

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Bollinger Announces All New E-Chassis, Promises Wide Flexibility For Commercial Buyers

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Bollinger Motors has big plans for the 2021 model year. We had the chance to have a glimpse at this future when we witnessed the unveiling of the B1 SUV as well as the B2 SUV in Ferndale last year. The company also revealed pricing for the duo shortly after, but while the B1 and B2 will serve as a figurative spearhead into the EV truck and utility markets, the company needed to shore up its chassis technology in order to take advantage of more markets. The company has resolved this, and has formally unveiled its all new E-Chassis which …

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2020 Chevrolet Blazer Premier AWD – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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Chevy released the Blazer one year ago and has already done a complete renaming of it’s trim levels for the 2020 model along with a few other trim and package updates. Chevy added a new mid level engine option with the 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder. Trim level names have changed from L, 2.5L, 3.6L cloth, 3.6L leather, RS, and Premier to L, LT, 2LT, 3LT, RS, and Premier. They have also added an auto start stop override button, three new exterior colors and a new redline edition. For our testing Chevy sent us a top-of-the-line 2020 Blazer Premier AWD …

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2021 Honda Odyssey Brings Enhanced Styling, Tweaked Looks To Minivan Buyers

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The current generation Honda Odyssey has been a strong presence in the minivan segment since it made its initial debut in Detroit a few years ago. But age is starting to catch up to the Odyssey, and Honda has unveiled a reworked version that not only enhances its good looks, but also manages to cram in more new technology at the same time. Slated to make its appearance at the 2020 New York Auto Show (barring a coronavirus related cancellation) the Odyssey retains much of the core elements of the old van, but Honda designers have made some aesthetic improvements …

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2021 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport Revealed In Massive Leak

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Today has not been very kind to Ford Motor Company. While the company was able to snuff out a smaller leak a week ago that showed off select elements of the Bronco’s side profile and rear fascia, things got turned up a notch when both the Bronco and its smaller cousin the Bronco Sport were leaked in full to the world. With the cat now essentially out of the bag at this point, we take a dive into both of these models, and see how Ford is betting big on the revival of the iconic Ford Bronco. The latest leak …

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2020 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD by Ben Lewis

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If you’ve been thinking about a 3-row SUV, but you’re not sure, you’re not alone. It seems like the automakers can’t make up their minds either. A few years ago, we saw a bunch of new models feature available third row seats. And while they initially took a bite out of the minivan segment, a lot of them have gone away, or made them low-volume models. Mazda’s CX-9 is one of those. But we wouldn’t weep about limited availability of a 3rd row, because frankly, the largest Mazda SUV is a dynamite vehicle. It’s a Looker We’ve seen a nice …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR – By Carl Malek

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Jaguar is a company that is finally embracing the winds of change. While its counterpart Land Rover was always known as the SUV side of the coin, Jaguar was perfectly content with being the option for people that wanted sporty luxury cars that also infused high degrees of style and design in their flanks. While this worked well in prior decades, it also caused Jaguar to be far behind the curve when SUV and CUV demand boomed, leaving the brand to suffer from dwindling sales numbers. But the British luxury car maker chose to fight fire with fire, and recently …

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2020 Toyota Land Cruiser Heritage Edition by Ben Lewis

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Words like “Icon” and “Legend” get thrown around a lot in the automotive marketplace. Along with terms like “inspired by” and “an homage to” also thrown in. But there are a few deserving the title of greatness, and in SUV’s, you’d have to include Toyota’s Land Cruiser. First of all, it’s been around a long time, 60+ years. And while we’ve been through many iterations of the Cruiser, despite growing larger, more powerful and more luxurious along the way, it has always maintained its ruggedness, its off-road capability, and unbreakable nature. And it’s a world-wide favorite – from the Sahara …

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2020 Lexus NX300 F Sport – Review By Matt Barnes

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Lexus tries to keep a model as long as possible before they make any major updates. This holds true for the NX which is largely unchanged since its debut in 2014. So what, if anything, is new for 2020? Outside there are a few color changes with Silver Lining Metallic and Autumn Shimmer no longer available and Cadmium Orange being added. Inside the infotainment system now has Android Auto (for all NXs built after October 1st 2019) which joins Apple CarPlay that became available last year. There is an optional Mark Levinson audio system. The steering wheel now includes power …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro – By Carl Malek

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When we last met the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro it was in the middle of 2019 where we got acquainted with the truck’s rugged poise, capability, as well as some of the technology that it was missing i.e push button start, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Toyota is keen on keeping the Tundra a very viable threat to the Detroit Big 3’s supremacy in the pickup segment. But can some light cosmetic work and an infusion of new technology play a key role in helping the Tundra be a force to be reckoned with? Or is it still an outsider …

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2021 Chevrolet Equinox Slinks Into Chicago With New Updates

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Chevrolet might not have had any conferences for this year’s auto show, but that did not stop the bowtie brigade from bringing one new model to the 2020 Chicago Auto Show, with the brand bringing the updated 2021 Chevrolet Equinox, which aims to bring more polish and attitude to Chevrolet’s bread and butter SUV offering. While the world got its first look at the new model via the leaked image of a Chinese spec model, it should not be too much of a surprise to see that the U.S. version is largely identical to that variant. At first glance, the …

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Jeep JPP20 Debuts New Mopar Accessories, Signals New Direction For Jeep Performance [Video]

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Are you a Jeep Wrangler buyer that loves to customize your Wrangler with accessories, but you want to avoid the long build times associated with buying all the parts you need individually? If this sounds like you, Jeep and Mopar have the perfect solution for you the JPP20 Wrangler. Available only for the 2020 model year, the JPP is your one and only ticket to getting a fully customized Wrangler with minimal fuss and without the trouble of building it yourself. Dubbed the JPP20 “Jeep Performance Parts” the model is a visual example of what the recently minted Jeep Performance …

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Jeep Brings New Wrangler Gladiator Special Editions To Chicago, Mojave Gladiator Storms The Desert

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Jeep aimed to make a splash at the 2020 Chicago Auto Show, and brought a trio of debuts to wow the crowds in the Windy City with their blend of style and rugged functionality. Before we get into the custom side of things, we might as well get into the show stealer of Jeep’s conference, the Gladiator Mojave edition. The Mojave is Jeep’s answer to requests from loyalists that needed a more capable tool in desert driving situations, and comes equipped with a number of modifications that help it be better suited for this role. The exterior styling of the …

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Chrysler Brings All-Wheel Drive To Pacifica, Releases Opulent Pinnacle Model

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With the rumors that Chrysler was adrift in the marketplace due to its slumping sales, as well as its currently moribund two model lineup, FCA wanted to show the world that rumors about the impending death of Chrysler were greatly exaggerated, and that there is still some life left in the iconic American brand. The firm chose to do this by unveiling the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica which brings a whole suite of updates, and a whole arsenal of new tricks to help show the world that the Pacifica is still a brawny heavyweight in the world of minivans. The exterior benefits …

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Cadillac Targets Navigator With Tech Laden 2021 Escalade [Video]

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When the revamped Lincoln Navigator appeared a few years ago, It sent reverberations through the full-size luxury SUV market. Once the proverbial and literal punching bag of the segment, the big Lincoln’s newfound mojo caused it to rise above many of its foreign rivals, and even threaten the sales superiority enjoyed by its domestic rival the Cadillac Escalade. With the Navigator posing a revived threat to the Escalades benchmark status, Cadillac engineers knew they had to do something drastic to help stave off this challenge, and have unveiled the fruits of their labor, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade.   Controversial Styling …

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2020 Cadillac XT6 Premium AWD Platinum Package – Review & Road Test Video

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It’s been very frustrating to watch Cadillac suffer this past decade as their sedans seem bolted to showroom floors while all the other luxury brands have launched dozens of hot-selling three-row crossovers.  Finally — finally! — Cadillac can compete in the car-based SUV market with a rockstar entry that combines amazing style, Euro handling, a lux cabin and the perfect size/value equation. The XT6, ladies and gentleman, is that vehicle.  Sliding in with base prices of around $50k means this machine is a cool $25k less than the shortie Escalade and a whole lot easier to drive, own and garage …

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Hummer Is Back And Greener Than Ever, Will Be Part Of GMC Lineup In 2022 [Video]

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Following a recent report from the Wall Street Journal that suggested GM was bringing back the long dead Hummer name for new life as an EV offering, GM has officially confirmed that it is indeed a reality, and that the Hummer truck will be formally teased during the Super Bowl this weekend.   For those that are wondering, the Hummer nameplate is not returning as a standalone brand, which does shoot down sketchier accounts that suggested that would be the case. Instead, it appears that GM is positioning it as a sub-brand that would be housed within one of its …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Jeep Wrangler Sahara – By Carl Malek

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When it comes to bearing the weight of the world on ones shoulders, few can match the burden carried by the legendary Jeep Wrangler. Sharing roots with the Willys Jeep that played a key role in turning the tide for the Allied Forces during World War II, the Wrangler has made a name for itself for offering buyers amazing off-road capability in a package that has still retained much of its core values over the years, while also resisting the urge to outright abandon its functional design cues. But with a new decade now upon us, the iconic Wrangler has …

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2020 Jeep Gladiator Sport – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

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We’ve had our share of exciting new vehicles lately. Ones that drew crowds, from the Honda Civic Type R, to the Lexus LC500. Thing is, it’s usually of interest to a certain kind of buyer. The hi-po import guys for the Civic, the luxury buyers for the LC. But with the 2020 Jeep Gladiator, we’ve had tons of interest – not just from Jeep loyalists – but folks from all different backgrounds and interests. It’s the people’s vehicle! (Sorry VW) Friendly Looks The first thing that draws them in is the Gladiator’s exterior design. From the front, it’s pure Jeep …

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Sweepstakes! Win A Free Fastway Ball Mount Tow Hitch

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Engine Adventures is giving away an all new Fastway Flash Integrated Scale Ball Mount. This adjustable height ball mount has a built in tongue weight scale to make finding your tongue weight easy and provides for a safer towing experience. The mirror finish is so reflective you could use it to shave. The ball mount comes in four different drop sizes ranging from 4 inch to 10 inch drops and the winner will get to choose which size they want. The prize package also includes a set of locking hitch pins to keep the ball mount secure. Currently it is …

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2019 Honda Passport Elite – Off-Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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Returning after a 16-year hiatus, the Honda Passport is a large, 2-row CUV that slots between the Pilot and CRV. The Passport is built on the same platform as the Pilot and Ridgeline and uses the same power train, but is six inches shorter, one inch taller with an extra inch of ground clearance. Exterior All Passports come with a blacked-out grill and LED lights, but the Elite we tested had glossy trim throughout and even gloss black wheels. Other trims get a matte finish with polished aluminum or grey wheels. One thing that is immediately apparent is that the …

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

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

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2019 Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport – Review By Matt Barnes

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The only major update for to the Toyota Sequoia 2019 is the all-new TRD Sport trim level. In addition, many safety features are now standard that were optional in the past. This includes blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking and rear cross traffic alert. While the platform is over a decade old, it is still relevant. Toyota has one of the best reputations for reliability and the 5.7 V8 is still on par with its large SUV rivals for horsepower and torque. Review Video     Outside The Sequoia is very large and has a significant presence, yet it still somewhat …

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2020 Kia Soul GT-Line Review by Ben Lewis

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The Kia Soul has long been one of our favorite vehicles – cool style, hip vibe, strong performance, loads of tech at a reasonable price. What’s not to love? And we were equally thrilled when we recently tested the all-new 2020 X-Line, we came away very impressed. Except we kind of missed the Hamsters that Kia has killed from their ad campaign. What Kia didn’t kill was the available turbo-engined model, which has always been the enthusiast’s choice. But with the new 2.0-liter, non-turbo we tested we didn’t miss the turbo rush as much as we he had remembered. So, …

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2020 Hyundai Venue SE – Entry Level Quick-Take

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The 2020 Hyundai Venue is a delightful, affordable, entry-level crossover. This review is for the most basic SE model which is priced $17,250 with basic floor and cargo mats, and wheel locks adding $305, and a $1,095 delivery, for a total of $18,650 before trades, discounts and negotiations. As of this writing, there is a $500 offer; and you might qualify for others. All in for under $20,000 is almost hard to accomplish today, especially in the popular crossover segment. The 2020 Venue drives better than the price would imply. The base transmission is a 6-speed manual, and that is …

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2020 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500 6.6L Gas V8 – Off-Road Review + Video – By Matt Barnes

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Chevy has updated the 2500 and 3500 Silverados for 2020. The grill is even bigger than before, the cab is longer and more spacious, the bed is wider and longer, and they are now offering a bigger V8 gas engine. Chevy has used the 6.0 gas V8 for over a decade now, and it’s long past due for a major update. We found the new 6.6-liter V8 gas engine to be more than adequate for most uses. With a towing capacity of up to 16,600 pounds most weekend warriors will be able to take their boats to the lake or …

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2020 Subaru Outback Limited – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

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If there’s a company that epitomizes the “You Don’t Mess with Success” mantra, it’s Subaru. You rarely get a revolutionary, all-new, blow-your-mind model from the automaker. And we’re fine with that. Everything’s so good already, they prefer to perfect what they got. Introducing the all-new 2020 Outback! You didn’t notice? Well, it does look very familiar to anyone who has loved the previous five generations of Subie’s tall wagon. The size is about the same – 1.4” longer and 0.6 wider than the previous model. The lines look a bit crisper, with a large hexagonal grille, LED fogs and front …

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2021 Chevrolet Suburban Rumored To Get Z71 Trim Report:

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Chevrolet just pulled the veil off of the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban a few weeks ago, and the extensive revisions that the duo has received for the 2021 model year are very extensive, including the introduction of independent rear suspension to the lineup for the first time ever. But the Z71 trim was arguably the one Tahoe trim level that received our attention the most, with the rugged variant gaining a number of off-road themed touches to set it apart from its more road focused siblings. Chevrolet was silent on whether the trim level would find its way to …

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2020 Hyundai Palisade SEL FWD Review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the all-new Kia Telluride, and came away mightily impressed. So, we couldn’t wait to try its sibling, the Hyundai Palisade. We were surprised in a couple ways. They’re very different, and yet both deserve your consideration. And Hyundai’s flagship SUV even has a surprising accent. (Not to be confused with the Hyundai Accent) Swedish Fish Many times we’ve pointed out that Kia design feels very European, thanks in part to putting Peter Schreyer the head of Audi design in charge. Hyundai has never felt that way, until now. Well, except for the front. Here we have a …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Hyundai Nexo Blue – By Carl Malek

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Hyundai is on a roll when it comes to hydrogen. A key player in a green segment that is still attached to the hip of EV and PHEV vehicles. Hyundai still sees tremendous potential in hydrogen as a viable alternative fuel source. The company has had a long running program in California, and even recently unveiled a hydrogen powered semi truck concept. But, the Korean car giant still needed a viable platform to test its hydrogen technology, and it has unleashed the latest chapter in its green exploits, the 2019 Hyundai Nexo, but is the Nexo the next key chapter …

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2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison Duramax Diesel Review

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The ZR2 Bison is unstoppable!! Never thought I’d find a factory off-road pickup that can hang with the Raptor, but the Colorado’s slimmer width is a big plus on narrow trails. The diesel engine is packing a wallop at 365 pound-feet of torque and so you can tow an extra 700 pounds (up to 7700). However, the 0-60-mph time drops 3 seconds from 6.5 to 9.5. It feels pretty glacial on the road until you adjust to its power delivery style. But then you start to love how it just surges forward without a gear change, or pops off the …

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2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 Busts The Trails, Has Sequoia TRD Pro In Its Sights

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When we formally covered the unveiling of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe, we liked how its revamped interior and functionality helped the duo renain a top tier threat in the full-size utility segment. However, the Z71 grade Tahoe represents a very unique opprotunity for Chevrolet to not only have broader appeal with off-road focused buyers, but also help outshine other off-road offerings. While the Tahoe has had various Z71 packages in the past, the treatment for 2021 goes beyond being a mere marketing ploy, and is perhaps the greatest effort we have seen in truly catching sales in this …

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2021 Chevrolet Tahoe & Suburban Breathe New Life Into Iconic GM Nameplate, Bring New Technologies To Consumers

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Big SUVS are big business for General Motors with the Chevrolet Tahoe and the bigger Suburban accounting for a large chunk of all SUVS that are currently sold in the U.S. However with rivals such as the Ford Expedition, Toyota Highlander, and the Volkswagen Atlas besting the duo in several categories including fuel economy, Chevrolet designers knew that they had to completely revamp and rethink the way they introduced the Tahoe and Suburban to a new wave of SUV buyers. The brand thinks it has succeeded in this mission with the unveiling of the newly revamped 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG – By Carl Malek

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With the SUV and CUV segments adding so many new models into their respective ranks, it can be easy to forget that there are a few iconic nameplates sitting at various points in the segment. If your a rapper, celebrity, third world leader, or even the pope, few entries can match the extensive rap sheet wielded by the Mercedes G-Class. First conceived in 1972 at the suggestion of the King of Iran, the G-Class initially started life as a military vehicle, with the Argentinian army interestingly being the first power to use it in 1981. The first civilian version appeared …

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2020 Acura RDX SH-AWD A-SPEC – Review by Ben Lewis

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Acura has been on the move lately. We’ve been continuously impressed with vehicles like the fun and agile ILX, the luxurious and swift RLX, and the MDX Hybrid, which was a tech tour de force. But of all the nice products, the best may be the all-new RDX. The RDX has had an interesting life. The original model was ahead of its time, coming in   2007 with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and a very sporty chassis. For the second gen, the 2013 model featured a V6 engine, and was much more of a scaled down MDX. A very nice mainstream …

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Audi E-Tron Sportback Debuts Smoother Shape, Novel Headlight Technology

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When the Audi E-Tron first made its debut, the traditional SUV shape as well as its utility focused ergonomics helped make the EV a hit with consumers. However, we were always curious about what would happen if Audi designers were allowed to let loose on the E-Tron, and it appears Audi reps shared our view, and have followed through with the official unveiling of the all new Audi E-Tron Sportback. The styling of the Audi E-Tron Sportback is handsome, but to many observers it might not be readily recognizable as an all electric vehicle. Just like its more conventional looking …

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Hyundai Venue Pricing Revealed, Shatters Pricing Cliches With $17,250 Base Price

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When Hyundai first introduced the 2020 Hyundai Venue, its boxy shape, as well as its impressive suite of standard equipment immediately caught our eye, but with 2019 rapidly coming to a close, we still did not hear from Hyundai on the final pricing for this tiny CUV. The Korean car giant has thankfully delivered on this lone omission, and revealed that the Venue has a starting MSRP of $17,250. That does not include the $1,095 destination fee which helps push the price to $18,345. This pricing is somewhat of a game changer in the CUV segment, with Hyundai claiming that …

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Rolls Royce Brings Cullinan To The Dark Side With All New Black Badge Model

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The Rolls Royce Culllinan is already an imposing SUV to share the road with thanks to its elegant styling, as well as the very high levels of equipment that buyers can use to coddle themselves in world class luxury. We got a taste of this ourselves this summer, but for buyers looking for more intimidation and exclusivity from their luxury SUV purchase, Rolls Royce has come full circle, and has unveiled the all new Cullinan Black Badge. Like other Black Badge models, the Cullinan Black Badge is designed to push the big Roller into a higher plane of performance. But …

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2019 BMW X4 M40i Review and Drive Video – A Love-Bug Passion Play

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There are some cars you just click with right away as a reviewer, and the rest of the week with that ride just makes you love it more and more. I sometimes refer to these as “first-block” cars.  Vehicles that enchant you moments after putting them in Drive and rolling away for the very first time.  These are machines that sell themselves better than any salesperson ever could.  For me, the X4 M40i is one of those cars and is actually one of my top-three SUV drives of 2019.  (Behind Levante Trofeo and X7 M50i). X4 is an amazing machine …

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2019 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid Review by Ben Lewis

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Subaru loves to go their own way. That’s one of the things we love about them. We recently tested the WRX – a powerful sports sedan with rally-car DNA. The new Forester, a crossover with that same feel of something a little different from the mainstream. Need a 3-row SUV? You can get the Ascent, and enjoy that Subaru goodness in a larger package. It takes real engineering talent to stay true to your school (cue Beach Boys), and still meet, compete, and beat other vehicles in your segment. So, now we have the all-new Crosstrek Hybrid – the company’s …

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Ford Unveils Bronco R Baja Racer, Showcases Clues For Production Bronco [Video]

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Ford is still very keen on keeping the wraps firmly tightened around the production Ford Bronco, but the company has given eager fans of the iconic nameplate something extra to chew on with the unveiling of the Bronco R Baja racer. Designed to tackle the upcoming Baja 1000 desert race, the revived model will also help celebrate the 50th anniversary of Rob Hall’s Baja 1000 victory in a first gen Bronco based entry. As another nod to the past, Hall’s granddaughter Shelby Hall will drive it during portions of the grueling race. Before all that happens though, Ford will take …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT Double Cab Four Cylinder – By Carl Malek

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Not too long ago, the very thought of a four cylinder full sized pickup truck was seen as a pure fantasy. Back then, a V6 was the lowest anyone could go both in cylinders, as well as price. But times are changing, and with Ford dropping a bomb on the segment by unleashing the turbocharged 2.7 liter EcoBoost V6 on the world, Chevrolet knew that it had to do something completely out of the box to help the Silverado stay relevant in the full-size pickup truck segment. With Ford turbocharging the V6, the bowtie brigade decided to go in an …

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2019 VW Tiguan SEL Premium 4Motion Review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the massive 2019 Toyota Sequoia, and we felt that it had earned the motto (ok, we read it on a popcorn box) Big is More. In its class the jumbo Toy makes the most of its size. But it’s not the only class where size matters. Take for example the 2019 VW Tiguan. The previous gen was one of our favorite small SUV’s – it felt like you were getting some GTI DNA mixed in with crossover practicality. When time came around for VW to update the Tig, it decided to aim directly for the U.S. market. …

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Bollinger Motors Announces Pricing, Performance Details For B1 SUV And B2 Pickup

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When Bollinger Motors recently introduced the production version of the B1 SUV and the all new B2 pickup, we were left with new questions especially in regards to final range and pricing figures for the duo. The Ferndale, Michigan based company has ended the mystery, and has unveiled new details about the long term plans for the B1 and B2. For starters, we finally know how much the B1 and B2 will cost to own, with the company revealing that both models will start at $125,000. This eye popping figure is far off the under $100,000 estimate the company initially …

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2019 Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport Review by Ben Lewis

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We used to go to a movie theater that had catchy phrases on the popcorn containers. On the largest size was the especially memorable: BIG IS MORE. Well, there’s no arguing that in popcorn. Or full-size SUV’s. Which brings us to the 2019 Toyota Sequoia. If an SUV ever deserved that motto on the side, this would be it. But there’s plenty to talk about outside of the big and tall dimensions. Big is Beautiful The 2019 Sequoia is a good-looking beast. Unlike the new RAV4 (that we loved) that’s dressed up to look rugged, the big Toy bowls you …

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2020 Hyundai Palisade – Road Test Review + POV Video in All Seats

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Our first outing the the Palisade was up at the beautiful Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC and the surrounding mountains.  As you can read and watch, we hauled our butts up a mountain then did some off-roading in a mad caravan of Palisades.  We looked like a villain’s entourage with so many black luxury SUVs in convoy form! This follow-up was much more down to earth.  When the villains go home for the weekend, perhaps, and take on normal parenting and lifestyle duties. This involved a boring commute in traffic, jaunts around town running errands and lots of everyday life …

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2019 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition – Review By Matt Barnes

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Nissan gave us the opportunity to drive the 2019 Pathfinder SL 4wd Rock Creek Edition. The Pathfinder name has been used by Nissan for almost 60 years, and this newest iteration delivers. The Rock Creek Edition adds a ton of the most commonly popular features at a discounted price and makes for a beautiful color scheme. Outside There’s something about the color scheme and Midnight Pine Metallic paint that says “take me on an adventure”, but Nissan doesn’t add any additional off-road capability with the Rock Creek Edition. What it adds is a plethora of dark and rugged themed features, …

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Road Test Followup – 2019 Hyundai Kona Ultimate By Carl Malek

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When we last met the Hyundai Kona, it was in Detroit where we got to briefly experience its charms on various roads in the Metro Detroit area (as well as run into Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond of Top Gear and Grand Tour fame). Our brush with the stars aside, the Kona delivered a good first impression, thanks to its compact size, as well as the sheer amount of standard equipment that is infused into every Kona. The Kona even took its act to the green car market, where the Kona EV has been making waves since it …

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2019 Nissan Armada – On and Off-Road Review – By Matt Barnes

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For 2019, the Armada only gets additional standard features that were options last year. Things like rear door alert, intelligent cruise control, automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning are now standard across the Armada lineup. Outside Being the largest SUV in Nissan’s lineup, the Armada has presence. It is slightly larger than a Tahoe but smaller than an Expedition, putting it right in the middle of its class. While some other vehicles are starting to look the same as everything else in their class, the Armada has standout looks. Recently, Nissan has done an excellent job in creating beautiful …

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2019 Toyota RAV4 Limited – Review By Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the 2019 RAV4 Hybrid, and came away hugely impressed. It’s a total rethink of the RAV4, and it’s bigger, better, more handsome. A winner. But in an interesting twist, Toyota made the Hybrid the performance model, with 219 horsepower, and in our XSE tester a performance tuned suspension. We’re wondering if we had been sucked in by the top of the line hybrid power version. So now, we’re back testing a well-equipped but non-hybrid model – the kind most people will end up buying to see if the standard model is as good. Looks Good Since we …

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2020 Nissan Titan Brings Improvements And Better Capability To Buyers, Is It Enough?

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Remember the Nissan Titan? If your answer is no, we don’t blame you. Despite making waves when it first appeared several years ago, Nissan’s attempt at usurping the established pickup order has not gone well. The model has suffered from slow sales, with this dire prospect forcing Nissan to recently axe several variants of the Titan recently, including the Cummins powered XD model. But Nissan has not given up, and recently introduced the 2020 Titan at the Texas State Fair. We took some time to formally analyze the current generation Titan, and we were eager to find out if this …

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Bollinger Motors Unveils B1 & B2 Prototypes, Finalizes Production For Both [Video]

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When we last heard from Bollinger Motors, it was back in 2017 when they unveiled an early stage prototype of the B1 SUV. Back then, the company was based in New York, and the crude prototype served as a glimpse into the rugged EV that CEO Robert Bollinger and his fledgling company wanted to unleash to the masses. Several years of work later, the company has moved to a bigger building in Ferndale, Michigan and has unveiled the next step of its march to production, with the unveiling of the production spec B1 SUV and the all new B2 EV …

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2019 Nissan Murano SL AWD – Road Test Review + Video – By Matt Barnes

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Nissan has done a good job of making their SUV’s feel higher class than they have in the past. Often, Nissan’s are thought of as budget Toyotas, with great reliability but very basic. However, in the past few years, Nissan has moved into luxury interiors with comfortable seating and plenty of standard safety features. While bare bones base models are still available for price conscious customers, it’s Nissan’s middle and upper trims that really bring out the comfort and convenience features. Outside Our test model was an AWD SL trim with the premium Sunset Drift paint color. It is a …

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2020 Buick Enclave ST – Road Test Review + Drive Video

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The new-for-2020 Enclave ST looks amazing!  It is shocking how much the body-color grille edge and new gloss-black inner mesh changes the look of this jumbo crossover. Nowhere near as shocking as the resounding praise you’re about the read, though!  Believe me, this car will make anyone who drives or rides inside into a Buick fan. This coming from the kid who truly believed the 1990s Skylark was the most hideous vehicle ever made, and had disgusted reactions to every element of LeSabre and Century. This is a new era though, and this Buick is the best ever. ST stands …

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2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited AWD – First Drive Review Video + Mega Gallery

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Lots of Palisade love this summer! You can really tell how seriously Hyundai is taking this full-size SUV launch by the media events scheduled on its behalf. Instead of one major media drive with an ultra exclusive invite list, Hyundai did a Palisade road show and had at least five of them across the country.  Presentations from the product teams and great roads to try out this three-row biggie’s capabilities. The one we attended was in Asheville North Carolina, a short jump inland from CRD HQ in Charleston, SC.  But years in the ‘lowcountry’ made me forget all about hills …

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Honda Unveils 2020 CRV Hybrid, Brings All-Wheel Drive To Hybrid Lineup For First Time Ever

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The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid already made its debut in Europe earlier this year, but with the U.S. version of the CR-V due for an update. Honda has unveiled our version of the 2020 CR-V Hybrid, which will be the third hybrid model that Honda will have for sale alongside the Accord and Insight sedans, as well as the first light utility on sale here to benefit from hybrid technology.   Tweaked Exterior And Interior Styling Defines Light Refresh: Honda knows that when it comes to sales, the 2019 CR-V is a very potent winning formula for the Japanese auto …

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2019 Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss – Off-Road Traction Systems Test

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Spending time with the 2019 Chevy Trail Boss allowed us to dive deep into how the various traction systems work on all light duty Chevy trucks. We combined the information we gained from speaking with an engineer at Chevy with some real-world testing and here is what we found. All of the systems below work in 2WD, AWD and 4WD Chevy trucks except of course for the 4WD auto, 4WD high and 4WD low for vehicles not equipped with 4WD or 4WD low. Brake Limited Slip There are a variety of manufacturers that use a brake limited slip system as …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Jaguar I-Pace EV400 First Edition – By Carl Malek

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When Jaguar first announced that it was formally entering the EV vehicle market, we we’re admittedly a bit skeptical at first. The thought of a company with a history of electrical problems building a pure EV? Blasphemy, some might say when first presented with the thought. But after years of development, the Jaguar I-Pace has finally begun trickling its way into dealerships, and it is out to change perceptions, while also establishing Jaguar as a mainstream contender to the Tesla Model X. But can the I-Pace rise above the others to deliver a distinctly unique driving experience? We had a …

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2019 Lexus UX 250h Luxury – Review by Ben Lewis

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There is an age-old conundrum in vehicles. At a certain price, should you buy the top of the line of a mainstream manufacturer, or go into the entry-level of a premium brand? And here is a perfect example – the Lexus UX 250h.  You’ll pay a premium in price over, say a RAV4 hybrid, but is it worth it? We think so. Why? It Looks Like a Lexus This is a second time we’ve tested the UX. We previously had the UX 200, and we really liked the lines of the vehicle. While it is the baby in the family, …

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The King Has Returned, Land Rover Revives Legendary Defender Nameplate For 2020 [Video]

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When The Defender ended production in 2016, it signaled the end of an era where brute ruggedness and world class off-road capability were enough to stand out from the rest of the SUV ranks. Indeed, the Defender came packed with capability, and it also had a very impressive bloodline that traced its roots back to some of the first Land Rovers ever produced. But while European buyers were without their fix for only a few years, U.S. fans had a much longer wait, with our version of the Defender leaving our shores back in 1997. But at long last, a …

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2020 Kia Telluride SX V6 AWD – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

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Kia has been on a roll. Every vehicle we’ve tested lately, from the 2020 Kia Soul X-Line to the K900 has been a gem, and now we have the all-new Kia Telluride – a full-size, 3-row, 8-passenger SUV, and it may be the best Kia yet. And that’s saying something. The Bold and the Beautiful The Telluride is the largest vehicle Kia offers, and it’s also the first Kia designed specifically for the U.S. Kia itself calls the Telly big, bold and boxy, but this is one handsome box, looking more like a cross between a Ranger Rover and a …

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Car-Revs-Daily Double Review – 2019 Toyta RAV4 Adventure 4WD /MSR Hubba Hubba NX-2 Backpacking Tent – By Carl Malek

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When the 2019 Toyota RAV4 was unleashed into the mass market, the revamped utility offering had some very big shoes to fill. Its predecessor (outdated as it was towards the end of its life) still managed to post impressive sales numbers in 2018, and the RAV4 has always been a go to choice for many buyers that need a sensible utility offering for their everyday commuting needs. But can the 2019 Toyota RAV4 bring some much needed vigor and polish to the storied nameplate without ignoring its core audience? We were keen to find out, and devised a formidable testing …

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2019 Ford F-150 Raptor – On and Off-Road Test Review + Video

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The Raptor Returns! Raptor in summertime seems to be a tradition here at CRD and we’re not taking one minute for granted this time!  Last year we were too busy to take the beast into its off-road element and (gasp) barely discovered its drive modes until the last day or so. Not happening this time. The 2019 refresh of the coolest and most capable factory off-roader ever made got a thorough test and a great drive video too!  We savored every moment during this Raptor visit and have some awesome insights, highs and lows to share with you, loyal readers. …

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Insider: 4 great 4X4s on the market right now

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4x4s, SUVs and trucks took a long time to become as popular globally as they were (and are) in the United States. However, they’re taking over in a big way lately thanks to lower fuel prices and the rough weather we’ve been experiencing over the last few years. You can now find 4X4s that have roughly the same footprint as smaller vehicles, more hybrid and electric engines, and models both for the adventurous and small families. Here are some of the best 4X4s out on the market right now. Range Rover The Range Rover remains a classic, and still has …

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First Drive Review – 2019 Rolls Royce Cullinan – By Carl Malek

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It’s hard to ignore the resurgence of SUVS both in sales, as well as in  overall relevance in the minds of a new generation of buyers. Once considered a crippled segment following the Great Recession, SUV growth and demand has rapidly surged ahead in recent years. This has resulted in a ripple effect that has caused many automakers to rapidly revamp, and in some cases, rethink their long term sales strategies. These include high end marques once known for car focused lineups, with Bentley, Maserati, and Lamborghini all joining the fray. But at last, this ripple effect has reached arguably …

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2019 BMW X2 M35i – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

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Every time there’s a new small BMW, we hear the talk about the “Spiritual Successor to the BMW 2002.” This was BMW’s small 2-door that around 1970 took the quite pleasant 1600 2-door and stuffed a larger 2.0-liter 4-cylinder motor in it – classic hot-rodding, actually – and basically turned the automotive world on its ear. With the 2002, you had a totally practical, roomy and innocuous little sedan that outperformed the traditional sports cars of the day, and when the later fuel-injected 2002tii appeared, it was hunting down bigger game – including expensive European cars and powerful domestics, too. …

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2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross – Road Test Review + Performance Drive Video

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Eclipse Cross is such a class-leading vehicle that it instantly moves Mitsubishi to the A-list of car brands.  It is that well-equipped, feels like it has stellar build quality, and just leapfrogs most of its rivals on drive manners. Mitsubishi gone from worst to first!!? Perhaps we should take a step back and explain what makes the new Eclipse Cross so great. Yes, let’s take a more mature approach to detailing how Eclipse Cross’s build quality, tech and drive manners make it one of the most sophisticated supermini SUVs available.  Kick things off by watching the performance drive review video …

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Nissan Titan Regular Cab And Diesel Models To Get Axed At End Of The Year

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The pickup truck wars have turned into a very key and hotly contested battlefield for the automotive industry. While the domestic big three still rule the roost when it comes to this segment, Toyota and Nissan have also tried to break into the market with their entries the Tundra and the Titan full-size pickup trucks. But wheras the Tundra has managed to squeak a very commendable existence for itself during the bulk of its production run, things have not gone so well for the current generation Titan. A prominent sign of the Titan’s woes has emerged earlier today, with Nissan …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Lexus UX200 F Sport – By Carl Malek

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Lexus like other automakers, had a bit of a conundrum when it came to the task of luring in young millennials to its model lineup. How do you create something that comes jam packed with technology, style, and sophistication but in the compact dimensions that are needed for a urban commuter? While the Lexus RX is still a venerable nameplate (the bewildering RX350L excluded.) Its bigger size does not bode well for buyers in urban environments, and the Lexus NX can be a bit too extreme for other buyers. Lexus thinks it has finally hit the sweet spot with the …

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2019 Toyota RAV4 XSE Hybrid – Road Test Review – By Matt Barnes

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Toyota made many changes to the Rav4 for 2019, including a new chassis, new bold look, and more space. How will Toyota’s top seller in the United States fare with these new changes? Coming in at $37,699, is this loaded crossover worth the coin? Overview The Rav4 has long been a big seller for Toyota. It was an early, if not the first, car-based SUV, now called crossovers. For 2019, the Rav4 is more aggressive with a higher stance and a half inch higher ground clearance. This bodes well for the Rav4 Adventure whose focus is on outdoorsy people who …

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2019 Jaguar i-Pace EV400 – First Drive Review – By Becky Antioco

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The Jaguar I-Pace is everything you’d expect from a luxury car, and more than you would from an electric vehicle (EV). The case for EVs, in general, is complex, with considerations like environmental impact, practicality, range anxiety, and issues of substance and style coming into play. I’d argue that the I-Pace has the last two, in spades. I-Pace’s accolades are many: World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year, and World Green Car for 2019, European Car of the Year, and one of AutoTrader’s Best New Cars for 2019, to name a few. Yet, judging by sales …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label – By Carl Malek

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We like exploration, the sense of embarking on an adventure and discovering new things. It turns out, the folks at Lincoln also like the spirit of adventure too, especially with their recent blitz towards adding more exploration focused motifs into their models. When we last checked in on Lincoln, we checked out the biggest offering in their lineup, the revamped 2018 Navigator. The Navigator aimed to re-establish Lincoln’s dominance in the full-size luxury SUV segment, and we put that to the test by embarking on a road trip that took us throughout northern and western Michigan. However, while the Navigator …

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2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature (Turbo) – Road Test Review with Performance Drive Video

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Is there anything that a huge lump of horsepower cannot solve?!   The 2019 Mazda CX-5 went from a top-5 crossover in our books to the best of the best.  All thanks to a generous dollop of turbo horsepower – and especially torque! Mazda’s goal for 2019 is to keep the CX-5 sales party going at full steam. They are achieving this via not one but two new engine options in addition to the base 2.5-liter with 187 horsepower. There is a 2.2-liter turbodiesel offered in the USA for the first time and then this all-new turbo gas powerplant we so …

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2019 Ford F-150 Limited – Road Test & Towing Review – By Matt Barnes

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With the intense pickup truck wars in full effect right now, manufacturers are offering more luxury and ease-of-use features than ever before. Coming in at the very top of Ford’s F-150 lineup is the new Limited model. Recently, Ford sent us an F-150 Limited for review and we found that there were only six added options. Nearly every other conceivable feature is standard equipment. The Limited model is only available in the Super Crew 5.5 ft. bed configuration. It comes with so many features on the interior that there are few things that can be optioned. On the inside, our …

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2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited AWD – First Drive – By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

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For 10 straight months, sales of Hyundai’s SUV’s have increased sales. Kona, Tucson, and Santa Fe are models leading the way. Now the Korean manufacturer has just launched their largest SUV to date, the Palisade.  At a recent press event with the Midwest Automotive Media Association, outside of Chicago, we had a chance to spend several hours behind the wheel of the top level Palisade Limited.  It’s a special vehicle with a lot to offer anyone looking for a mid-size luxury SUV. The Palisade has standard 3-row seating that can seat 7 people or 8, if you choose a second …

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2020 Kia Soul X-Line – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

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First, a moment of silence. Today we mourn The Hamster. Well, not a real Hamster, but the special-FX rodents that came to be identified with the Kia Soul, thanks to their great commercials. For the all-new 2020 Soul, it looks like the furry funmakers have been tossed in the proverbial dustbin. (At least they could have been buried in the backyard, no?) Shed no tears, though, because this is an all-new Kia Soul, and while it keeps the, errr…Soul of the previous model, it sports a lot of great improvements that keep it one of the most enjoyable and endearing …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Mopar Ram 1500 Big Horn – By Carl Malek [Video]

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With all the diverse talents that the 2019 Ram 1500 brings to the table, it’s no surprise to hear that sales as well as the 1500’s broader reputation in the segment are on the upswing. Once considered the perennial third place offering behind Ford and GM, FCA’s plucky pickup entry has completely shifted the status quo, and is clawing its way towards usurping the Ford F-150 from its throne on top of the pickup truck sales charts. But a key and often lesser known story is how important the vehicle accessory market has been in the Ram’s ongoing success story. …

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2019 Mazda CX-5 Turbo Review by Ben Lewis

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The CX-5 crossover is a big deal to Mazda – it’s the best-selling vehicle they have in the U.S., and having sold over 2 million units worldwide it’s a bona fide success. It’s a well-loved product, too. Having been here since 2012, it got a nice refresh when we tested the 2017 CX-5, and we felt that it was still our favorite small crossover – it’s a great drive. But time moves on, some big hitters have come our way, including the all-new 2019 RAV4, which we loved for its looks, performance, and hybrid efficiency, all in one package. Mazda …

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First Drive Review – 2019 Cadillac XT4 Premium Luxury – By Carl Malek

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It’s no secret that Cadillac is very late to the compact luxury crossover party. While the XT5 was a humble attempt at giving Cadillac a fighting chance in the broader luxury segment, it could do little to hide the fact that a very noticeable void existed between it and some of the smaller luxury CUVs that are pulling in younger buyers in droves, especially those that want utility, but in a smaller tidy package that still is jam packed with luxury. The 2019 Cadillac XT4 aims to make up for lost time, and is Cadillac’s first formal foray into this …

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2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SELS S-AWC – Review By Ben Lewis

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Quick!  What’s the world’s best-selling Plug-in Hybrid? If you’re like us, you probably said the Toyota Prius. I mean, they pretty much own all things hybrid, no? No. Surprise! It’s the Mitsubishi Outlander. Which was a surprise to us, too. Mitsubishi is one of the smaller players in the U.S. – until recently when Nissan bought a large share of it. (For those playing at home, Renault is a 43% owner of Nissan, while Nissan owns 34% of Mitsubishi). Those deeper pockets are sure to see investment in Mitsubishi, and a rosier future for the brand. We already felt the …

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Road Test Review – 2018 Audi Q5 2.0 quattro S tronic – By Carl Malek

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When it comes to being a true jack of all trades, the Audi Q5 certainly has a lot going for it. With its impressive amounts of luxury, poise, and quickness, the Q5 has always been a consistent presence in Audi’s utility lineup. While the Q8 is currently hogging the spotlight when it comes to showing off its slick infotainment technology and impressive engineering, the smaller Q5 has been quietly doing its job as Audi’s bread and butter offering, especially for buyers looking for something between the Q3 and the bigger Q7. But is the Q5 still an excellent volume player …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 – By Carl Malek

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The mid-size pickup truck market is booming, but that has always not been the case. For a number of years, the segment was a very stagnant sector of the broader pickup truck market, with the Toyota Tacoma being the benchmark offering for buyers that wanted a pickup, but did not want the bulk and bigger size that often comes with a full size offering. Chevrolet is no stranger to this segment, but the company has not always had the best of luck in its prior attempts at toppling the Tacoma. The 1980’s and 1990’s were dominated by the crude but …

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2019 Lexus RX350 F Sport AWD – Review By Matt Barnes

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For 2019, there haven’t been many changes to the RX 350 F Sport from the 2018 or even 2017 model years. It remains a strong seller for Lexus and a great all-around vehicle. Inside, the F Sport trim adds a variety of interior pieces from the pedals and steering wheel to the F Sport leather trim and seats. Outside, the F Sport gets a nice set of 20-inch rims and a couple of F Sport badges. Performance wise, there aren’t any substantial changes. It still uses the 295 hp V6 that all other RX 350’s use, however, the F Sport …

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2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison AEV 2.8L Diesel – First Drive Review

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Aptly named save for one trait Upon reflection of my encounter with Chevy’s new ZR2 Bison AEV trim package for their mid-sized truck offering, the Colorado, the Bison moniker was appropriate. I found myself with a bit of a shiver on a particularly cold morning, with what felt like freezing fog. For being in the heart of a land that had lived in harmony with the name Chevy decided on for this variant, Bison, I hadn’t heeded the lessons learned from the past centuries of the local peoples. As my breath puffed visibly as I grew closer to this truck, …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Land Rover Discovery HSE Luxury – By Carl Malek [Video]

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When it comes to bringing the pinnacle of off-road capability to affluent adventurers, few can beat the bar that has been set by Land Rover. The iconic British luxury SUV brand has always served as one of the benchmarks that many automakers look up to when they craft an off-road focused vehicle. In addition, key models have also played a big role in the company’s history over the years. A prominent player is the Land Rover Discovery which has established itself by offering lucky buyers the ability to blaze even the toughest of trails but still have enough size to …

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2019 Honda Passport AWD Elite – Review by Ben Lewis

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What’s in a name? We’ll skip the Shakespearean reference, and go for the automotive one. Do they make sense? Sometimes. A 911, well that’s a model number. A Maxima – uh, is there a Minima? Now we have the all-new Honda Passport. Wait, we’ve heard that name before. Yep, there was a Honda Passport in the ‘90s. Well sorta. That Passport was a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo, which wasn’t a bad vehicle, and it was a smart idea – Honda needed a compact SUV to fight it out in that red-hot segment. This was three years before the 1997 CR-V would …

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2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2.7L Turbo – First Drive Review Video

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One of the most horrifying pieces of car news this year is the entry of four-cylinder power to the world of full-size pickup trucks.  Yes, this new 285HP 2.7-liter four from Chevy matches the 2.7TT in the Ford F-150.  But the psychological impact of the four banger is still extra shocking. We were eager to flog the new base SIlverado to see how it compares with the previous V6 LT model.  Our tester was 4×4 which makes a big difference in ride height and curb-side masculinity.  But it also can tend to dull the power quite a bit.  The new …

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HD Track Drive Review - 2015 Ford Transit PowerStroke Diesel High-Roof, Long-Box Cargo Van 6

OTR Insider – How to Boost Productivity On Your Delivery Team

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Running a business that utilizes fleet drivers is extremely demanding. With your employees out of reach while on the road, you may feel you have no way to manage them. Because they’re out of reach, you may also notice their productivity levels are dropping. Professional fleet drivers have a lot of responsibility. From conducting maintenance checks on their vehicles to obeying all traffic laws and keeping passengers safe, your drivers wear a lot of hats. To ensure your employees are on top of their game, implement these best practices into your company to boost productivity. Use Telematic Technology If you …

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

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

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2019 Lexus NX300 F Sport – Review By Ben Lewis

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If you have a younger sibling, you might remember this. One day, everything is fine – you’re the new baby, star of the show, everything is going well. And then boom! A new baby comes along, and the spotlight has shifted. Wuh happened? Well in the case of the Lexus NX, it was the birth of the all-new, cute and cuddly Lexus UX. Suddenly, the NX is another member of the growing Lexus SUV family. Of course, not being in the spotlight has some advantages. Where the NX used to need to be the price leader SUV of the line, …

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2019 Toyota RAV4 XSE Hybrid – Review By Ben Lewis

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Toyota has found their mojo. The new Camry is awesome. The Hybrid version, is too. The Corolla Hatch? Desirable and fun. Even the Avalon is sexy now. Yes, the Avalon. But it’s the SUVs and Crossovers that are make or break for manufacturers. And since the RAV4 pretty much invented the small car-based SUV 22 years ago, it’s been a big hit. In fact, Toyota says the RAV4 is not only the best-selling vehicle in its class, it’s the best-selling non-pickup in the country. That would make a lot of manufacturers cautious, careful and conservative. Don’t rock that money boat! …

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2019 Buick Enclave Premium FWD – Review by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the Buick Regal TourX and concluded that it’s a sweet sport wagon – and not the big and friendly family Roadmaster wagon of day’s past. What if a big comfy wagon is what you’re looking for? As we like to say, step right this way, to the 2019 Buick Enclave. While the wagon market is rapidly shrinking, the crossover segment is going like gangbusters. And for the family with places to go, the three-row Buick is a great way to get there. Sleek 7-seater If you’re hoping for slabs of plasticized pine, you’ll be disappointed here. On …

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2019 Hyundai Kona Ultimate AWD – Review By Ken “Hawkeye” Glassman

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FEATURES-FUN-PRACTICALITY AND VALUE The 2019 Hyundai Kona is one of the best subcompact crossovers that money can buy. That’s a bold statement, but the Kona can back it up. This 5-passenger SUV is available in five trim levels, the SE, SEL, Limited, and Ultimate, with starting front-wheel-drive models coasting $19,240, $21,050, $24,300, and $26,250 respectively. Add $1,400 for All-Wheel-Drive. The Iron Man trim, at $30,550, comes with a matte grey finish with red accents all around the vehicle,  red trim inside the cabin, and larger wheels. Not worth the money. The first 2 trim levels come with a 2.0 liter …

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Road Test Review – 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport GT – By Carl Malek

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With all the various iterations of Outlander that have visited the Metro Detroit branch over the years, the one elusive model that always managed to remain elusive to our scrutiny was its cousin, the Outlander Sport. Wheras the standard Outlander excels at being a family hauler and delivering outright insane fuel mileage when properly equipped, the Sport aims to wrap the efficiency in a decidedly more exciting package that also aims to add some driving fun to the overall driving experience. But can the 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport still shine in a slice of the segment where fun and efficiency …

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2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate 2.0T AWD – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

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We’ve been into Sports lately: The Elantra Sport, the HR-V Sport and soon, the Civic Sport. So, in the growing enterprise of sporty vehicles, it’s interesting that for the all-new 2019, the model formerly known as Hyundai Santa Fe Sport has been simplified to just Santa Fe. Hey, the Santa Fe has been here for 32 years, and is the burgeoning brand’s best-selling SUV. Has Hyundai found a different path? Will it have lost the fun-to-drive and stylish vibe of the previous model? The question is… Do We Know the Way to Santa Fe? Well, it’s still pointed in a …

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