car shopping review Topic Hub

Road Test Review – 2020 Mini Cooper S Clubman – By Carl Malek [Video]

The 2020 Mini Cooper S Clubman is the answer to a very interesting question. What would happen if you take a Mini Cooper hatchback, and try to apply some of its quirky charm and appeal to a segment blurring utility focused model? The end result is the Clubman which tries to add more versatility and cargo hauling ability into its distinctly British flanks. But while the Clubman Panel Van a few years ago was a short lived and ultimately flawed experiment, the standard Clubman has managed to gather a sizable following of loyalists over the years. We were eager to …

Keep reading

May 14, 2020 Read more

Road Test Review – 2019 Toyta Avalon Limited Hybrid- By Carl Malek

When it comes to big sedans, few can come close to matching the unique arsenal of traits that the venerable Toyota Avalon brings to the table. Focusing on providing comfort and borderline luxury to its owners, the Avalon is a key name in the large sedan segment. But with schools of CUV and SUV models circling this iconic segment like sharks, the Avalon faces turbulent waters in its quest to remain true to its virtues. Despite this (as well as the success of its own utility offerings) Toyota is still keen to be a key player in the sedan segment, …

Keep reading

Apr 27, 2019 Read more

Road Test Review – 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring – By Carl Malek

With the 2019 Mazda CX-5 waiting in the wings with its all new turbocharged four cylinder engine, and a whole host of refinement updates, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 has the unenviable task of holding down the fort and maintaining the strong legacy that the model has built for itself since it made its first appearance several years ago. But the SUV and CUV wars are changing at a rapid fire pace with seemingly a new model being unveiled almost every week. But can the 2018 CX-5 succeed in its minor but jey supporting role? Or will the 2019 CX-5 have …

Keep reading

Jan 13, 2019 Read more

Road Test Review – 2018 Kia Niro Touring – By Carl Malek

When we last met the Kia Niro in Metro Detroit, it was back in 2017, in its base EX trim which aimed to not only deliver buyers a compelling CUV in a rapidly growing segment of the marketplace, but also the hybrid fueled efficency that is a key draw for green minded buyers. While it certainly suceeded in delivering on both of these fronts, it lacked the style and aesthetic flair to truly stand out against segment rivals. Kia aims to solve this problem with the Touring model, but does the Touring have what it takes to inject some much …

Keep reading

Oct 14, 2018 Read more