Last year’s 2022 Grand Wagoneer was one of my first reviews of the calendar year, and it left me feeling conflicted. Controversial styling aside, I liked elements of the all-new SUV but something about it just didn’t feel right. I’ve sat with these feelings for an entire year (as they live healthily rent-free in my …
I first drove the 2023 Kia Sportage at Kia’s media event in the spring of 2022. Kia had brought two variants of the all-new Sportage for media to sample – the Sportage X-Pro and Sportage Hybrid. Every Sportage X-Pro uses Kia’s “base” engine, a naturally-aspirated 2.5 liter four cylinder. The Hybrid is, unsurprisingly, a hybrid. I …
The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid Makes Me Wonder Why “Traffic” Isn’t All Hybrids Read More »
Oh, auto shows. What used to be a traveling tour of nearly every make and model on sale seems to be dwindling, with many brands opting out of some or all shows. The common refrain is that “the ROI isn’t there,” which I understand to a point. But for those who want to see and …
Scenes from the 2023 Washington Auto Show: What’s New and Interesting Read More »
As electric cars (and trucks, and SUVs, and vans) grow in popularity, it’s important to remember that the point of every EV is not to be “efficient” over all else. An inefficient electric vehicle is still a net positive, according to InsideEVs. Some EVs, then, are bound to exist as technology showcases, fashion-first accessories, or …
The GMC Hummer EV Has Some Fun Tricks Up Its Sleeve, but It’s Not For Me Read More »
I’ve been very proud of my mostly-flawless driving record. Since obtaining my drivers’ license in 2006, I’ve managed to only earn a few minor speeding tickets over the years. I’ve had crashes, but they’ve all involved a certain black-then-purple BMW M3 sedan that was also my racecar, and they all took place on the racetrack. …
I Had My First Crash on the Street, in a Press Car on New Year’s Eve Read More »
Picture it, Virginia, 2022. It was a dark December night, and I was rushing to the dealership after leaving a company Christmas party. This was the night that I would pick up my 2023 Toyota GR86 Premium in Trueno Blue. I had been waiting for what seemed like forever, even though it had been just …
Taking Delivery of My New Toyota GR86: Affordable Fun in a Shrinking Segment Read More »
Electric pickup trucks are not ready for long-distance towing. I say that after spending a week with a 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning and finding it an effortless, wildly good tow vehicle. Confused yet? Keep reading. ‘Normalcy’ is the F-150 Lightning’s big appeal. Where Rivian’s R1T reimagines the pickup truck, Ford’s approach focuses on people who …
I loved the Hyundai Veloster N. It was a funky, weird three-door hatchback with a killer drivetrain and honest performance at a reasonable price. On the surface, it seemed like the answer to what enthusiasts have been asking for. In reality, everyone clamoring for “something interesting” or “something weird” realizes their priorities are elsewhere and …
The 2022 Hyundai Elantra N and Kona N are Amusing, Attainable Performance Stars Read More »
“What even IS that? I love it!” Charging an electric car, even at high speeds, means you have the opportunity to meet other EV drivers and occasionally have some brief conversation. John had pulled in right behind me to charge his Chevy Bolt, and had no idea what I was driving. The long, matte white …
2023 Genesis Electrified G80 Review: Stylish, Slippery Stunner of a Sedan Read More »
Heritage is an interesting concept in the automotive world. Some brands cling to it, specific models over the years have embraced it – well or to a fault – and other makes and models are all about looking ahead. The 2023 Nissan Z aims to fit squarely in the middle, with the press release claiming it’s …
