tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9790134485700535262024-03-17T20:02:40.027-07:00AutoGloMark Glover's blog includes reviews of the latest motor vehicles introduced for sale in the United States, his take on various aspects of the auto industry and periodic insights on auto racing at home and abroad.Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.comBlogger929125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-44928172462089826122024-03-14T10:38:00.000-07:002024-03-14T10:38:05.501-07:00Versatile electric Ford pickup has high-volt bonus<p><i><span style="color: black;">Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car
reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’
News</span></b></span>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon,
Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Sacramento,
California -- The last time I reviewed the Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup
truck, it was helping me survive a nearly week-long power outage.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It charged my mobile
phone, kept me up to date with the news via radio and transported me to buy
food that would not go bad in the useless freezer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was an oasis in a desert devoid of
electric power. A reliable companion.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAaitaQN2eLwGgu6xq0iCFGA7njGZeQzXfAbss-p_6pt1QIkaOio5kOvUOwQqohfns9Iq1cuZ6ZCialIyAhBvfyQrVFJsvkpDgNDhAKYagkTMSm4BifU-UVIjHUZJbFwEh8jXgPjfglqvjSdfrK2G8D_U62tv8FV3JkIlPui-NlWVpQj-jrDhU7Sdz31I/s5100/Ford%20EV.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5100" data-original-width="5100" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAaitaQN2eLwGgu6xq0iCFGA7njGZeQzXfAbss-p_6pt1QIkaOio5kOvUOwQqohfns9Iq1cuZ6ZCialIyAhBvfyQrVFJsvkpDgNDhAKYagkTMSm4BifU-UVIjHUZJbFwEh8jXgPjfglqvjSdfrK2G8D_U62tv8FV3JkIlPui-NlWVpQj-jrDhU7Sdz31I/s320/Ford%20EV.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This time around, in
my week in a 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning 4X4 SuperCrew, I found more time to
appreciate the other features I was too stressed to examine the first
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Simply said, it's a remarkable
machine.<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">And while some
pickup purists have been struggling with the idea of an electric truck, I can
assure you that the Lightning can do anything that an internal-combustion
driven truck can do ... and more, given its electric equipment.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It's rugged and
powerful, and yes, it can provide power to your home in a pinch.<br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Of course, there's
always the fuel mileage equivalent of 73 miles per gallon in the city and 60
mpg on the highway. Zero fuel bills feel good, no matter how you feel about
electric vehicles.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">I must point out that my tester was loaded, pushing the sticker price to a whopping $97,674.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was I complaining?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not for a second. I thoroughly enjoyed the
extras and the long list of standard features that made up my Lightning.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">This is one of the most versatile EVs ever built, in my
view.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The very fact that Ford made the
effort to produce an electric, full-size truck during a time of uncertainty
over public acceptance of such vehicles is, in my mind, a feather in Ford's cap.</p>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">So, Mr./Mrs. Die-Hard Pickup Driver, have you
test-driven one yet?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If not, you
should.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don't know what you're
missing.</span>Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-1250521347321121812024-03-07T11:07:00.000-08:002024-03-07T11:07:06.923-08:00Two SUVs tell the tale of Honda's market popularity<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car
reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’
News</span></b></span>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon,
Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Sacramento,
California -- In this tale of two Hondas, there are only winners.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">In the recently
tested 2023 Honda Pilot AWD TrailSport and 2024 Honda Passport AWD Black
Edition (pictured), there is much shared DNA.<span>
</span>And it all adds up to tell you why Honda is producing such popular
midsize crossover sport-utility vehicles.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8gNDZnGQTxmJ1M4Iu7ne8V5O3nmuuvR2KpDEFcTEuX6Ie2ubX4r4SP2MYGWeTAdREMC2D_BI7-14qZGfENA62DwGplX1b_5yQyyhU7zxZt2RMxpRnxLlEA8v_oF3cKlX3uT5hv-161WqbTEVxDgFF-HGpRGUFgowmji-7jtQW2TXBlhDqsoS_WnO-1kU/s1024/Blacktop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8gNDZnGQTxmJ1M4Iu7ne8V5O3nmuuvR2KpDEFcTEuX6Ie2ubX4r4SP2MYGWeTAdREMC2D_BI7-14qZGfENA62DwGplX1b_5yQyyhU7zxZt2RMxpRnxLlEA8v_oF3cKlX3uT5hv-161WqbTEVxDgFF-HGpRGUFgowmji-7jtQW2TXBlhDqsoS_WnO-1kU/s320/Blacktop.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Both testers had
long lists of standard features, excellent fit and finish, superb handling and
the kind of interior cabin quality one expects from Honda.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">In the Pilot SUV
TrailSport, priced at $50,500, standard features included a panoramic roof, a
power liftgate, road-departure mitigation and a heated windshield.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The Pilot was
powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 rated at 285 horsepower.<span> </span>This was more than enough to jet me around
urban gridlock and freeway pokes.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The same is true in
the 2024 Passport, also packing a 3.5-liter V-6 with plenty of pop.<span> </span>By the way, the Black Edition label entitles
you to an assortment of cool interior/exterior styling touches.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">My Passport tester
again tipped the scales near the 50-grand mark, stickering at $49,365.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Both vehicles give
up a little bit of fuel with six cylinders: 18 miles per gallon in the city and
23 mpg on the highway for the tested TrailSport, 19/24 for the Passport.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">So, for the buyer
looking for the ideal midsize crossover SUV, sanely priced, fully equipped and
likely to run forever, these two Hondas certainly measure up.<span> </span>But of course, I've left out the one obvious
trait of both vehicles: Honda has built and marketed them as rugged
outdoor/off-road performers.<span> </span>And yes,
they are precisely that.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Little wonder that
Honda promotional materials picture these Hondas cutting through the mud and
muscling across fast-moving water.<span>
</span>Fellow auto reviewers, who obviously are braver than I in taking test
vehicles into the backcountry, have praised the off-road suspensions.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">In today's market,
with $60,000 to $80,000 vehicles as common as M&Ms, it's hard to imagine
that you could purchase this much versatility and fun for $50,000.<span> </span>Yet you can. I should know.<span> </span>I've just driven two of them, both wearing
Honda badges.</span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-66362688519236925972024-03-03T14:09:00.000-08:002024-03-03T14:09:13.017-08:00Mazda CX-90 SUV reviewed in latest Cruisin' News<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">My review of the </span></span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">2024 Mazda CX-90 sport-utility vehicle can be seen in the latest, March 2024, edition of the <b><i>Cruisin' News</i></b>, "Oregon, Nevada
and California's classic auto news and marketplace."</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">The "Hot Laps" reviews,
along with my "Oil Drips" observations on anything with wheels,
appear monthly in the publication.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">To subscribe to the Cruisin' News,
visit <b>www.cruisinnews.com</b>, call
(916) 933-0949 or send an email request to <b>subscribe@cruisinnews.com</b>.<span> </span>Mailed requests for information should be
sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p><p></p>Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-46713084059801029362024-02-29T10:53:00.000-08:002024-02-29T10:53:13.145-08:00Woodsy, loaded Sienna stands out in minivan market<p><i><span style="color: black;">Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car
reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’
News</span></b></span>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon,
Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Sacramento,
California -- There are some auto reviewers who won't go near a minivan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too 1980s and uncool, they say.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Not me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Give me a spacious people carrier with
multiple entertainment systems and a smooth cruising pace for the open road,
and I'm hooked.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">And just in time to
deliver all of this in spades was the recently tested 2023 </span>Toyota Sienna
XLE AWD, Woodland Edition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Woodland
label delivers decidedly rugged, outdoor styling touches sure to please those
who consider camping an experience to be something other than a motel.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmAv2RZbrGRXh9Ob0LkkzE7UsG48EnDcXbbLm9qOxQErLUey22eFMYEQMGCEUBWEvQ7YE4f34VXrfimF8D9YXF61NbBzq4Gf5gjniN0aaJlY7oHWt9geg__cRtL1SnIOYI-GJBWmY3e6GYGJkS1YDp7AZPqIM-5Oj1t5o5zmJl6MO65ZuWMsSFzkAR1E/s1500/Sienna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="992" data-original-width="1500" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmAv2RZbrGRXh9Ob0LkkzE7UsG48EnDcXbbLm9qOxQErLUey22eFMYEQMGCEUBWEvQ7YE4f34VXrfimF8D9YXF61NbBzq4Gf5gjniN0aaJlY7oHWt9geg__cRtL1SnIOYI-GJBWmY3e6GYGJkS1YDp7AZPqIM-5Oj1t5o5zmJl6MO65ZuWMsSFzkAR1E/s320/Sienna.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>First impression beyond the woodsy look: plenty of room to
stretch out and enjoy the ride, and the drive. If you're taking a long road
trip, few vehicles provide this much space to relax and avoid muscle
cramps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A 500-mile travel day will pass
much easier for passengers in this Sienna.<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">And there's lots to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My tester had the usual dozen JBL speakers and lineup of ports.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition, a $1,415 option included a
1080p HD rear seat entertainment center with an 11.6-inch display, HDMI input,
remote and two wireless headphones.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">Oh,
where was this entertainment gem when my kids were small?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">Beyond entertainment, the Sienna was stuffed with numerous
safety/convenience features, including lane tracing assist, a pre-collision
system and radar cruise control. On top of this: a maximum five-star overall
rating in federal crash tests.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">The highway manners of the tested Sienna were excellent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>River cruise comfort and just enough pop when
needed from the 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with Toyota Hybrid System II
assist. The package produces 245 horsepower.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">Perhaps more significant, fuel
mileage is an exceptional 35 miles per gallon in the city and 36 mpg on the
highway.<br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">Sound tempting?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
should say so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suburban chore doer or
summer vacation dream vehicle. The Sienna checks both boxes.</p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-47648947319773575062024-02-22T10:41:00.000-08:002024-02-22T10:41:59.865-08:00Six figures gets you the Land Rover of your dreams<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- Can pure motoring happiness be found for $128,475?</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm here to tell you
that, yes, you can be made quite happy with a 2023 Land Rover Range Rover PHEV
SE SWB wearing that sticker price.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Just the opulent
luxury alone makes it a pleasure.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And while it might
be beyond the household budgets of many, if you get the chance to simply sit in
one -- or test drive it -- prepare to be made happy.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ROiYXsAI8M8s4wFcwP6y6F71Y3_ty1ewmIr5jjFoArEX-J_CnPRuvKhO5PSgzNAhOmKSZP8U7rDop7xuCvUjmjR9f_pPtKbHCeRJCNDNSZlOCUDr-eF4CwR2z5gJTa_Z90jIwKbDc87_A6k8B_bXdryIEKsxeustTsXq-al_XBHqKbNn6XsSH4tTPnI/s3840/Rover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="3840" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ROiYXsAI8M8s4wFcwP6y6F71Y3_ty1ewmIr5jjFoArEX-J_CnPRuvKhO5PSgzNAhOmKSZP8U7rDop7xuCvUjmjR9f_pPtKbHCeRJCNDNSZlOCUDr-eF4CwR2z5gJTa_Z90jIwKbDc87_A6k8B_bXdryIEKsxeustTsXq-al_XBHqKbNn6XsSH4tTPnI/s320/Rover.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">SWB designates the
smaller, standard wheelbase version of the vehicle, and my tester did indeed
have the plug-in electric helper. Rest assured that power is not a problem with
the workhorse 3-liter turbo-6 handling the heavy chores. Rated at 434 horsepower, the
power plant is a marvelous machine, propelling the solid SUV around with
magnificent authority.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With electricity and
gasoline working in tandem, the tester checks in at 51 miles per gallon in
combined city/highway mileage.<span> </span>The
needle drops to 21 mpg on gasoline alone.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is one of the
rare cases where brute power was trumped by everything else on the
vehicle.<span> </span>For starters, the super-clean
look built into the 2023 Land Rover is striking.<span> </span>Everything is so precise and expertly fitted
that the tester reminded me of a radar-defying aircraft.<span> </span>Impressive.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For me, luxury
stood out the most.<span> </span>That six-figure
price might make one swallow hard at first, but given all the features of the
vehicle, it's totally justified.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Where to start?<span> </span>There's the panoramic roof with power
sunblind, deployable door handles, power tailgate, Windsor leather seating
surfaces, the infotainment system with the 13.1-inch screen, three-zone climate
control and on and on.<span> </span>If you've ever been
gifted a night at a five-star hotel's luxury suite, just put four wheels on it
and you have the Land Rover I tested.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Very British. Very
elegant. Very luxurious. Very pleasant.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-40956602051151925212024-02-15T13:41:00.000-08:002024-02-15T13:41:38.693-08:00Kia's subcompact Seltos SUV delivers in big ways<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- How to explain Kia's success in recent years?</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sure, the automaker
tends to stuff its vehicles with standard features and price them well below
similarly equipped autos.<span> </span>Yes, the
warranties are great.<span> </span>Reliability has
improved dramatically.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And then there's
this: Kia delivers vehicles that the driving public wants (or should want).</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A perfect example of
this is the recently tested 2024 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD subcompact
sport-utility vehicle.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfup4t_l5_9tsxkxjkqe6_JHUbj5_7ARzxFB-G8_hP9GyPD9hH3XicgoS1d_Cu5YkF9AmHShEb1HPeHEdSoxrZw7FcU_Ob4-d7OoLDH-7tY5a5aDDTAF8DHldGg0BWzC_vtREfJOuyphxjVLl6ro2Y4JpVoTpmEWjcNREfoEuVX8NMwQVOKIgAT7azP8/s1350/Seltos%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1350" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghfup4t_l5_9tsxkxjkqe6_JHUbj5_7ARzxFB-G8_hP9GyPD9hH3XicgoS1d_Cu5YkF9AmHShEb1HPeHEdSoxrZw7FcU_Ob4-d7OoLDH-7tY5a5aDDTAF8DHldGg0BWzC_vtREfJOuyphxjVLl6ro2Y4JpVoTpmEWjcNREfoEuVX8NMwQVOKIgAT7azP8/s320/Seltos%201.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">There is an enormous
crowd of small SUVs to choose from, and yes, they tend to blur together at some
point.<span> </span>But for 2024, Kia revised the
front and rear fascia for a more dynamic, sporty look. The Seltos stands out in a crowd.<br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Inside, the eyes are
drawn to the 10.25-inch panoramic display screen for navigation and other
purposes.<span> </span>There is no squinting to make
out the features of the large, helpful display.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Small does not
translate to sluggish, thanks to the 1.6-liter turbo-4 engine rated at 195
horsepower and 195 foot-pounds of torque. This power plant is the heart and
soul of the SX version of the vehicle, and nearly 50 horses more than the
standard engine offering for other trim levels.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I had enormous
amounts of fun whipping the Seltos around, but given its ability to quickly get
out of harm's way, I don't think I angered any of my fellow motorists. Fuel
mileage on the tester was pretty fair: 25 miles per gallon in the city and 27
mpg on the highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I was frankly
stunned at the features packed into the tested subcompact, much more than one
would expect for a vehicle priced at $33,085 on the bottom line.<span> </span>More-than-expected goodies included an SX
Moonroof Package, a wireless charger and heated front seats.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thinking small and
exceptionally functional?<span> </span>Kia has a vehicle that might
just be a perfect fit.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-70381058744902615302024-02-08T10:21:00.000-08:002024-02-08T10:21:09.942-08:00Lexus RC 350 stands out with luxury, sportiness<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background: white; color: black;">This review first appeared in the December 2023 edition of the</span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: black;"> <b>Cruisin' News</b><span>,
</span></span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span></i><i><span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic
auto news & marketplace."</span></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span>To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit <b>www.cruisinnews.com</b>, call (916)
933-0949 or send an email request to <b>subscribe@cruisinnews.com</b>.<span> </span>Mailed requests for information should be
sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.</span></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Sacramento, California -- Here's the sentence fragment you
hear a lot when stepping out of the 2023 Lexus RC 350 F Sport AWD: "Say,
isn't that a ... "</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">The last word never seems to find its way to daylight,
because the speaker typically realizes that the car is not a Corvette ... or a
Mustang ... or a McLaren ...</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3aLjHkCyJ7caB9wxx3WZ9veHTfkHaDgpJpi2HtXBcLXlr8Zn8SEZTyhXcYeKySDaXHJpsb2JlrdzSh3RLqAfRANhAg-5HK_FWvXboFBJDXuL5-M80DP4UdVG24UC2hDoXP0WJ34B3N4rZd22tE_1Ik9W_w9svfiFE827QCUclKjBw8AMLA8G1AhH15Kc/s1440/Lexus%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="1440" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3aLjHkCyJ7caB9wxx3WZ9veHTfkHaDgpJpi2HtXBcLXlr8Zn8SEZTyhXcYeKySDaXHJpsb2JlrdzSh3RLqAfRANhAg-5HK_FWvXboFBJDXuL5-M80DP4UdVG24UC2hDoXP0WJ34B3N4rZd22tE_1Ik9W_w9svfiFE827QCUclKjBw8AMLA8G1AhH15Kc/s320/Lexus%201.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">It that uniqueness that makes the RC 350 fun to drive, and I
imagine, fun to own.<span> </span>You don't notice
that many of them on the road.<span> </span>And being
unique has its advantages.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">First off, the sleek RC 350 just shouts sports car just
sitting there.<span> </span>The long hood line, muscular
power grille and aerodynamic sweep of the roof turn heads.<span> </span>The F Sport trim touches only add to the
aggressive look.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Triple-beam LED headlights lend a saucy Star Wars touch.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Do you feel proud just knowing that people are looking at
your eye-catching ride?<span> </span>Of course.<span> </span>That's part of the fun.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">And then there's performance.<span>
</span>The tester was powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 rated at 311 horsepower. The
power plant pushes torque at the low end and horsepower at the high end.<span> </span>The result is robust sprints off the line and
speedy moves on the freeways, with the bonus of a satisfying rumble from under
the hood.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">I found fellow motorists not only gawking at the car but --
amazingly in California -- kindly stepping aside and letting me pass. Again,
looks mean everything, and motorists seemed to take it for granted that I could
dust them off if I chose to do so.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Adding to all this driving pleasure was a stellar package of
comfort, convenience and safety features.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Among my favorites: The lane departure alert with steering assist
was helpful without being annoying.<span> </span>And
I liked the intelligent high beams with road sign recognition, a premium Lexus
sound system and the F Sport suspension tuning. Added bonus: the
super-luxurious feel of the cabin.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Please note: This RC 350 is billed as a four-seater, but two
adults in the rear likely will feel pressed to the edges in those tight
quarters.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Fuel mileage is fair at 19 miles per gallon in the city and
26 mpg on the highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Uniqueness and luxury come with a price: the $61,430 on the
sticker puts this vehicle solidly in a segment of elite sporty machines.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">But well worth the price if you are so fortunate.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-10641330137870558292024-02-06T10:23:00.000-08:002024-02-06T10:23:34.325-08:00Hyundai's Kona SUV reviewed in latest Cruisin' News<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">My review of the </span></span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">2024 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD sport-utility vehicle can be seen in the latest, February 2024, edition of the <b><i>Cruisin' News</i></b>, "Oregon, Nevada
and California's classic auto news and marketplace."</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">The "Hot Laps" reviews,
along with my "Oil Drips" observations on anything with wheels,
appear monthly in the publication.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">To subscribe to the Cruisin' News,
visit <b>www.cruisinnews.com</b>, call
(916) 933-0949 or send an email request to <b>subscribe@cruisinnews.com</b>.<span> </span>Mailed requests for information should be
sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p><p></p>Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-33074308385561708262024-02-01T10:17:00.000-08:002024-02-01T10:17:54.059-08:00Land Rover's Defender is a royal ride fit for a king<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- It had been some time since I felt like royalty.<span> </span>And I certainly did feel that way after a
week in the 2023 Land Rover Defender 110 SE sport-utility vehicle.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sure, Land Rover is
the choice of the British royals, and the Defender lineage dates back to the
early days of Queen Elizabeth II.<span>
</span>History aside, I appreciated the small touches that make up the
Defender.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There are the
convenient slots and storage areas built into the back gate.<span> </span>And yes, the thing feels like an armored tank
on the move.<span> </span>Yet there is little
obnoxious noise that reaches the interior cabin. The 10.1-inch infotainment screen
is easily mastered. There's three-zone climate control, of course.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9JGEnE5RahSayQIw-7bHVRiPQCfAhkJgCK1QmWNdM08hNN9eKFhDXl9vnE6qmbK2cJXHYN5p_SRv2yWiP9bLXMfo9bP3Gt5YD16JnEquA03aggfTMfrWLTbLVkD5g-yOJwlf3AHr9kqrZZydo8_Z7kpDt1d_QQcNvxt_nyZ9XkdJ-9Cdw2wT0jA0WXsA/s1024/Defender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9JGEnE5RahSayQIw-7bHVRiPQCfAhkJgCK1QmWNdM08hNN9eKFhDXl9vnE6qmbK2cJXHYN5p_SRv2yWiP9bLXMfo9bP3Gt5YD16JnEquA03aggfTMfrWLTbLVkD5g-yOJwlf3AHr9kqrZZydo8_Z7kpDt1d_QQcNvxt_nyZ9XkdJ-9Cdw2wT0jA0WXsA/s320/Defender.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">Power comes from a
3-liter, six-cylinder engine rated at 395 horsepower and 406 foot-pounds of
torque.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don't remember
past Land Rovers exhibiting that much muscle, but my ride was decidedly
enthusiastic off the line and in freeway traffic.<span> </span>For all of its big-shouldered bulk, the
Defender at speed actually felt nimble and quick.<span> </span>At no time did I feel like I was extending
the vehicle's capabilities. In fact, if anything, I never let her loose at full
song.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Simply put, this is
a rugged sport-ute that you can muscle through busy freeway traffic and dicey
downtown streets with full confidence. Solid, strong. Feels substantial but drives light.<br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fuel mileage is
so-so at 18 miles per gallon in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One other thing
about this Defender.<span> </span>It apparently came
off as unique to fellow motorists.<span> </span>With
virtually every stop I made, an individual or crowd gathered to ask questions
about the vehicle.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I was only too glad
to talk up its charms.<span> </span>To boil it down,
it's fit for a king.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-58310454152820526762024-01-24T13:11:00.000-08:002024-01-24T13:11:44.373-08:00Where have I been? Taking a decidedly lengthy detour<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- Those who follow me closely know that I have been out of the
lineup for the past couple of weeks or so.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There's a reason for
that.<span> </span>Here it is:</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On Dec. 22, I came
home from a 3.5-mile jog and was feeling fine as I changed out of my sweats in
my garage.<span> </span>Suddenly, I experienced an
overwhelming wave of vertigo ... something that has occasionally happened to me
over more than 20 years.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Only this time, I
woke up on the concrete floor of my garage with a golf ball-size knot on the
left side of my forehead.<span> </span>My son,
Charles, transported me to the emergency room at nearby Mercy San Juan Medical
Center in Carmichael.<span> </span>Tests
followed.<span> </span>Conclusion: Nasty fall,
probable concussion but, otherwise, no lasting damage. I went home that night.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On Jan. 7, I was
overcome with intense pain and pressure in my head and was again rushed to the
hospital.<span> </span>Conclusion this time around: a
brain bleed.<span> </span>In technical terms, a
stroke.<span> </span>What followed was two weeks in
the hospital, with more than half that time in intensive care.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After countless
tests, readings and meds, I was finally cleared to go home on Monday, Jan. 22.
The primary concern has been stabilizing my blood pressure, although the
long-standing causes of my medical situation are likely more complex than just
that.<span> </span>Happily, I have no physical or
mental handicaps as a result of all this.<span>
</span>For this, I'm most grateful.<span> </span>And
needless to say, the healing powers of being home have already made a
difference as I baby step my way back to something like normal.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some of you sent
messages of encouragement my way during this ordeal.<span> </span>For those, THANK YOU from the bottom of my
heart.<span> </span>Just knowing that people care is
a big deal.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And so, the
immediate plan is to rebuild my strength -- I lost 20 pounds between Jan. 7 and
Jan. 23 -- and get back out on the road again, although my initial car testing
likely will be closer to home in the first quarter of the year.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Otherwise, thanks to
all who read my words.<span> </span>It's good to be
on the comeback trail....MHG</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-71965778481022175492024-01-04T13:13:00.000-08:002024-01-04T13:13:00.376-08:00Set to indulge yourself? Ultra Luxury Toyota is for you<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background: white; color: black;">This review first appeared in the November 2023 edition of the</span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: black;"> <b>Cruisin' News</b><span>,
</span></span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span></i><i><span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic
auto news & marketplace."</span></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span>To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit <b>www.cruisinnews.com</b>, call (916)
933-0949 or send an email request to <b>subscribe@cruisinnews.com</b>.<span> </span>Mailed requests for information should be
sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.</span></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Sacramento, California -- Sometimes, you want to indulge
yourself ... You've earned it, right?</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Few vehicles fill this need better than the tested 2023 Lexus
LX 600 Ultra Luxury sport-utility vehicle. When you have a full-size, three-row
Lexus SUV that has "Ultra Luxury" in the model name, well, you know
you're in for some all-star pampering ... and state-of-the-art technology.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfIQAoc50BNXFik7BHnCDeWqGFsYvlK7novXpKuRhjdGVahjf7KkjTbDTcx53kF-3trb0D7v2UaF0Z6cb-L4OXD1p5hes8iuUEA6tB-0kxxY179SRiiZG0AmoflISqcEvGW-etzdNktx1HcPxMBQjRHNi3H_LBk8SXMGRnVnke15aHBjLQvAZbCUNABDk/s1920/Lexus%204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfIQAoc50BNXFik7BHnCDeWqGFsYvlK7novXpKuRhjdGVahjf7KkjTbDTcx53kF-3trb0D7v2UaF0Z6cb-L4OXD1p5hes8iuUEA6tB-0kxxY179SRiiZG0AmoflISqcEvGW-etzdNktx1HcPxMBQjRHNi3H_LBk8SXMGRnVnke15aHBjLQvAZbCUNABDk/s320/Lexus%204.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><p><span style="font-size: small;">Let's start with the radar-based pre-collision system with
pedestrian detection. Intelligent cruise control is there, of course. Plus
intelligent high beams. And you have a panoramic view monitor to go with your
multi-terrain monitor.</span></p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Nearly a dozen multimedia/connectivity systems can entertain
a platoon and keep you connected to up-to-the-minute data as you cruise along.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Driver and passengers are treated to exquisite
leather-stitched seating with embossed headrests.<span> </span>The second-row seats are captain's chair
recliners with massage function.<span> </span>There's
four-zone climate control and a handy cool box in the center console to keep your
beverages chilled on your journey.<span>
</span>Thematic ambient lighting is part of the deal, as is a Mark Levinson
surround-sound system.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Yes, it's staggering.<span>
</span>And I've only scratched the surface.<span>
</span>Any buyer will need to devote serious time to the owner's manual to make
sure he/she masters the myriad functions of the vehicle.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">How does it drive?<span>
</span>Rock-solid smooth and surprisingly peppy off the line, thanks to a
3.4-liter, twin-turbo V-6 rated at 409 horsepower.<span> </span>Accelerations are quick; no need to wait for
the revs to load up to feel the SUV's muscle.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">I will say that the LX 600 Ultra Luxury looks very much like
a shoulder-square SUV, although it rides high on 22-inch forged alloy wheels.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">There's a price to pay for the power curve: fuel mileage is
only 17 miles per gallon in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">So, what's the bottom line on this rolling wonder?<span> </span>On my tester, the sticker was $130,995. Yes,
we're talking about a certain income bracket here.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">But if you have the coin, this LX has the goods to make you
happy, and then some.<span> </span>So, set about
indulging.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-12850942797219261662023-12-29T11:32:00.000-08:002023-12-29T11:32:18.299-08:002024 promises to be an eventful year in the auto world<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- Another year is disappearing in the rearview mirror, and the road
ahead is packed with adventures, challenges and change.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In 2024, we can
expect a year of political storms at the presidential level.<span> </span>In Paris, a summer Olympics awaits.<span> </span>In America, a lot of people are making
money.<span> </span>Others are struggling amid
lingering inflation.<span> </span>And on the
automotive front, great movements are occurring.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Electric cars
continue to come off assembly lines in huge numbers.<span> </span>And there are so many variations of hybrid
vehicles now that it's hard to keep up with what is out there.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Will U.S. automakers
be able to hold serve with increasing competition overseas? Will a
breakthrough, smashing success of a vehicle debut next year?</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">American auto
workers took action and won economic gains in 2023.<span> </span>And yet, they're rightfully concerned about
computerized machines and AI taking over what were once paid positions for
human beings.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There's no shortage
of incredible motor vehicles on the market.<span>
</span>The technology that provides enhanced security, safety, comfort and
convenience is often mind-blowing.<span> </span>It's
evolving at a rate unprecedented in automotive history.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Simply said, 2024
promises to be an eventful year.<span> </span>I'll do
my best to keep pace with it and offer fair assessments of the vehicles that
come my way.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Most of all, I want
to thank all of those who have faithfully read my words, dating back
years.<span> </span>Your feedback has made me a
better observer.</span></span></p>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I wish everyone health,
happiness and prosperity in the year ahead.<span>
</span>I'll be seeing you down the road.</span></span>Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-20938225593966385162023-12-14T11:11:00.000-08:002023-12-14T11:11:03.537-08:00Expedition is ideal for those with big holiday plans<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- It's the holiday season and, well, I need some space in my test
vehicles. I imagine Santa confronts this all the time.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thankfully, I
recently took delivery of a 2023 Ford Expedition Platinum 4X4, a full-size
sport-ute with the cargo-carrying capacity of a mule train.<span> </span>Ah, problem solved.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Over the years, the
Expedition has taken its lumps as a big, gas-guzzling bruiser.<span> </span>But let's face it, some households (and
businesses) have the need for a vehicle of this size. You can't transport a
soccer team and all of its equipment in a Honda Civic, after all.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBelOZe2G_PdKA4hggs-AkOOoAjGjglbs71wERAvyg_r2VNo0aVR9GkZb9UIpm__Yv3xIsJFoLvX-Nhnnj3SCqHYecrEu8mhwZxLreaLmMmHzPe5Lw6H2plbzOpzzTw4iNWOERHG3Mj2TaY4VvYgQ8to-q3GQsyER61ie2GYGd9adn5ug4K7mt3aHtpjM/s1280/Ford%20Exp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBelOZe2G_PdKA4hggs-AkOOoAjGjglbs71wERAvyg_r2VNo0aVR9GkZb9UIpm__Yv3xIsJFoLvX-Nhnnj3SCqHYecrEu8mhwZxLreaLmMmHzPe5Lw6H2plbzOpzzTw4iNWOERHG3Mj2TaY4VvYgQ8to-q3GQsyER61ie2GYGd9adn5ug4K7mt3aHtpjM/s320/Ford%20Exp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And in numerous
ways, the Expedition has a lot going for it.</span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For example, a suite
of max five-start federal crash test ratings stands out.<span> </span>That includes five stars on the overall
score.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And while one might
expect the fuel mileage on this three-row SUV to be horrendous, it actually
comes in at a fairly surprising 16 miles per gallon in the city and 22 mpg on the
highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Power comes from a
3.5-liter turbo V-6 rated at a salty 400 horsepower. Torque is equally saucy at
480 foot-pounds at a mere 2,250 revolutions per minute.<span> </span>Simply put, power is not a problem.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The tester dug in
hard off the line and quickly sprinted into tight spots on the freeway.<span> </span>Steering was surprisingly light for such a
large vehicle.<span> </span>It can be one-handed in a
crowded parking lot.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The biggest benefit,
of course, is how much it can carry.<span> </span>And
carry with ease, I might add. Let's start with eight normal-size human
beings.<span> </span>Even packed to the max, there's room to
stretch those legs.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cargo volume behind
the first row of seats far exceeds 100 cubic feet, so load those holiday gifts
for everybody in one trip.<span> </span>Need a
sizable trailer for the out-of-town presents? The Expedition can be easily set up for
that errand as well.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Throw in a
monster-size list of functional/safety/comfort/convenience features -- which
boosted the bottom line on the tester to $87,345 -- and you have the holiday
season transporter of your dreams.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For busy lifestyles
and hard-working folks, the Expedition can do large duty for them 52 weeks a
year.<span> </span>Speaking of which, hope all of you
have a happy and prosperous year ahead in 2024.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-48454629959643532852023-12-07T10:49:00.000-08:002023-12-07T10:49:04.921-08:00Chevy's Colorado pickup is the boss of the roadways<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- Chevrolet reworked its midsize Colorado pickup from bumper to
bumper for 2023.<span> </span>The result: A better
truck from front to back.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Better? How to count the
ways.<span> </span>Let's start with styling.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If it's possible for
a midsize pickup to look like a muscular, full-size truck, Chevrolet somehow
pulled it off.<span> </span>The wrap-around,
split-level grille convinces the eye that this is the work site warrior you've
been looking for.<span> </span>The compact bed
reminds that it's ready for lighter suburban duty as well.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnttEcjLu9BBJ1qrjqCKiz1J24Uek8BkG-OR7Pegyna-DD6ZHxC-vZpQXi_Ybv7OjF0AFmExmZzVimXopWrQTAEksc4qB43dM54jbqhtr9I3cw275MuBYw-q6k6wCOEPi2wZc_z9uH74QdLRPiLfwppU3g-pAMYcUPPB_Bzc-Th9I4NlXoCKNtKdHdXv8/s5697/Chevy%20Colo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3800" data-original-width="5697" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnttEcjLu9BBJ1qrjqCKiz1J24Uek8BkG-OR7Pegyna-DD6ZHxC-vZpQXi_Ybv7OjF0AFmExmZzVimXopWrQTAEksc4qB43dM54jbqhtr9I3cw275MuBYw-q6k6wCOEPi2wZc_z9uH74QdLRPiLfwppU3g-pAMYcUPPB_Bzc-Th9I4NlXoCKNtKdHdXv8/s320/Chevy%20Colo.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My tester, a 2023
Colorado 4WD Trail Boss Crew Cab, was particularly attractive in "Glacier
Blue Metallic" paint.<span> </span>Folks literally
stopped in their tracks to remark on it.</span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Inside, a
driver-friendly layout of controls goes above and beyond the usual truck
fare.<span> </span>Particularly striking is the
11.3-inch diagonal color LCD display.<span> </span>It
took me a little study time to master all that it does.<span> </span>Once mastered, it's an easy-to-read and
convenient-to-use touchscreen device.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On the fly, power
was provided by a 2.7-liter "Turbo Plus" engine rated at 310
horsepower. Some pickups take their noisy time getting up to cruising
speed.<span> </span>Not this one.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Accelerations from a
standstill pressed me pleasingly into my seat, and the tester was perfectly
balanced even as I performed the hardest of standing starts.<span> </span>In freeway traffic, the Colorado was nimble,
and dare I say, light to the touch.<span>
</span>Kudos to Chevy engineers on the chassis/suspension set-up.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fuel mileage was 17
miles per gallon in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.<span> </span>The bottom line on the sticker was $41,055 --
a fair number given the lengthy list of standard features on the truck.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I've discovered that
size matters in the world of trucks.<span>
</span>Some neighbors felt that my tester was simply not big enough.<span> </span>I'm guessing they are spoiled by the tons of
monster-size trucks on the roads.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I get it.<span> </span>But here's the thing:<span> </span>Not everybody needs a big-as-a-building
pickup priced at $65,000.<span> </span>Maybe all they
want is a functional pickup that is easy to handle, and capable of hauling the
occasional big cargo load.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This Colorado -- named Motor Trend's 2024 Truck of the Year at this writing -- can do
all that.<span> </span>And look good doing it.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-81334112119496382312023-12-04T15:22:00.000-08:002023-12-04T15:22:05.722-08:00Sporty Lexus RC 350 reviewed in latest Cruisin' News<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">My review of the </span></span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">2023 Lexus RC 350 F Sport AWD sports car can be seen in the latest, December 2023, edition of the <b><i>Cruisin' News</i></b>, "Oregon, Nevada
and California's classic auto news and marketplace."</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">The "Hot Laps" reviews,
along with my "Oil Drips" observations on anything with wheels,
appear monthly in the publication.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">To subscribe to the Cruisin' News,
visit <b>www.cruisinnews.com</b>, call
(916) 933-0949 or send an email request to <b>subscribe@cruisinnews.com</b>.<span> </span>Mailed requests for information should be
sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p><p></p>Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-24787843721027339222023-11-30T12:15:00.000-08:002023-11-30T12:23:52.648-08:00BMW dishes up the luxury in this X7 sport-ute<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i><span>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</span></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Sacramento,
California -- I had not been behind the wheel of a BMW for some time, but my
return to the automaker's cockpit could not have been any more pleasant.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Of course, that was
probably helped along by my ride being a new power-laden, luxury-loaded 2023
BMW X7 xDrive40i sport-utility vehicle priced at $95,745.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Yes, class
counts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But so do many other things on this
full-size sport-ute.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26YG_Bp7D7Y9WXKnutd74xb65mAyklf1E87nNKRtOAD98e-8AuSMqA5GyYSEM5vzwZTdX7lB7E5Cck-kP8M6uwALHc3RyGkQA84Q5cvhWW7Xr2bRsvvQTsiLObwAQntGAsokEhtQWzswLfntWaGHQFRXTWIZNHf1cK0XfNP-fGSNInKT82QdkUxuB2wg/s800/BMW%20One.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26YG_Bp7D7Y9WXKnutd74xb65mAyklf1E87nNKRtOAD98e-8AuSMqA5GyYSEM5vzwZTdX7lB7E5Cck-kP8M6uwALHc3RyGkQA84Q5cvhWW7Xr2bRsvvQTsiLObwAQntGAsokEhtQWzswLfntWaGHQFRXTWIZNHf1cK0XfNP-fGSNInKT82QdkUxuB2wg/s320/BMW%20One.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>The look is
decidedly aggressive, especially on the front end, with beautifully cut, split
headlights and a sculpted, big-mouth grille.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While most grilles today are just big, this one had some subtle curves
and angles to make it stand apart -- in a positive way.<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">The interior was a
five-star hotel room with exquisite, perfectly stitched white leather and a
thoughtful layout of dash controls, all sort of aimed at the driver for his/her
convenience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sitting in the cockpit gives
one a feeling of security and complete control.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Ditto all the
technology built into this X7. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Driving-assist and
enhancement controls are helpful without being overly intrusive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it's really easy to command everything
with that massaging driver's seat and the primo Harman Kardon surround-sound
audio system filling the cabin with pleasant noises.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">I will confess that,
while the BMW in-vehicle technology is similar to that found in other
makes/models, it is triggered in different ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had to study the owner's manual to master
things, but it was a short, quick study.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Like riding a bicycle again?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yeah, pretty much.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Auto-reviewing
colleagues generally raved about the 3-liter TwinPower Turbo 6 engine in their
reviews, and I second their endorsements after a week in my tester. The
375-horsepower engine is muscular off the line and silky smooth on the cruise
once the revs are up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A pleasure to
drive.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Fuel mileage is OK
at 21 miles per gallon in the city and 25 mpg.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Any gripes?: The
third row seats are a bit of a tight fit.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Otherwise, this is
likely the full-size luxury sport-ute that fans of the segment dream of owning.</span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-51334871486456487932023-11-22T13:20:00.000-08:002023-11-22T13:20:15.278-08:00More than a Toyota Highlander, it's simply Grand<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- You would think that Toyota would be perfectly happy with the
highly successful Highlander midsize crossover sport-utility vehicle,
positioned nicely above the compact RAV4 but smaller than those other sizable Toyota
SUVs.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Instead, for 2024,
the venerable automaker has rolled out a Grand Highlander, sort of a super
Highlander.<span> </span>Full size and proud of it.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My tester, the 2024
Grand Highlander 4WD Limited, showed up looking as big as a battleship to my
eyes.<span> </span>I chalked that up to my own biases
and expectations, having tested numerous Highlanders over the years.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4KXo95_djQBH9UJGvagLeuexHXx4g_dKNq6a2oFGd8ZZab6s0UWZj1KRUt9k0gTNBxNItwD5V8V__c7Td6SoxUAnFX3NDpvhl0kmmoSv7j5pG9U7ipSa0i7RSKHQKKId7cZvLetxGgU0gs51VlDJPf01FccZx13VvMOKXvvWET492E51Kz5ZfHuH8QlI/s1500/G%20Hiland.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="998" data-original-width="1500" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4KXo95_djQBH9UJGvagLeuexHXx4g_dKNq6a2oFGd8ZZab6s0UWZj1KRUt9k0gTNBxNItwD5V8V__c7Td6SoxUAnFX3NDpvhl0kmmoSv7j5pG9U7ipSa0i7RSKHQKKId7cZvLetxGgU0gs51VlDJPf01FccZx13VvMOKXvvWET492E51Kz5ZfHuH8QlI/s320/G%20Hiland.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">A little time
together brought us to an understanding.<span>
</span>Yes, it's large.<span> </span>But it doesn't
drive that way. It's easy to maneuver, and I was pretty much accustomed to the
vehicle's borders within five minutes.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Power on my Grand
Highlander was provided by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system rated at 245
horsepower.<span> </span>Frankly, the power plant
felt stronger than that as I had to throttle back on aggressive starts, lest I
catch the attention of the local peace officers.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Simply put: The Grand Highlander drives as easily as the good ol' midsize
Highlander.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The hybrid system
also offered pleasant fuel mileage numbers: 36 miles per gallon in the city and
32 mpg on the highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Per usual,
everything else on the Toyota was spot-on: excellent fit and finish, good
360-degree vision from the cockpit and a generous list of standard features.
Highlights included leather heated/ventilated/power front seats, a wireless
smartphone charger, three-zone auto climate control and an exceedingly sharp 12.3-inch
color multi-info display.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Did I mention that
it looks good?<span> </span>Yeah, it does, especially
riding on those muscular 20-inch alloy wheels.<span>
</span>The angular cuts on the body raise it a notch above the standard big SUV
look.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Priced at $53,238,
the tester was wearing a sticker very much expected of a big-shouldered SUV.
But in my view, worth the price for the Grand experience.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-59451883517673239532023-11-16T10:50:00.000-08:002023-11-16T10:50:33.415-08:00Hyundai's Tucson continues to please in numerous ways<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- Over the years, I've bragged a lot about the Hyundai Tucson. I
considered it the perfect choice for a motorist looking to buy his/her first
sport-utility vehicle.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I've even
recommended the Tucson to some who ended up buying one. So, a recent
opportunity to again climb into a Tucson cockpit offered me a chance to change my
mind about things.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That did not happen.
If anything, my confidence in the Tucson was boosted even further after a week
in the 2023 <span style="background: white; color: #222222;">Hyundai Tucson
PHEV Limited AWD</span><span>. How so?</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiW2jhWqe40f_i8end6quMDEuygd-pPIqDGp2RSL4EAkrjIA_e2iv-OMcqLK0rRCjl-UTyjZk3Ocwu3o_D6aanoVBP_Da2h35NCEjq-sg51C5_mOoENDv_CiBvtjIa_ry9G_7n311eweXui4ErkPE2L3u9_hHpZdG9wNZoLFmn0XlLMSk48fB-oODMzw/s8256/Tucson%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5504" data-original-width="8256" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiW2jhWqe40f_i8end6quMDEuygd-pPIqDGp2RSL4EAkrjIA_e2iv-OMcqLK0rRCjl-UTyjZk3Ocwu3o_D6aanoVBP_Da2h35NCEjq-sg51C5_mOoENDv_CiBvtjIa_ry9G_7n311eweXui4ErkPE2L3u9_hHpZdG9wNZoLFmn0XlLMSk48fB-oODMzw/s320/Tucson%201.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">In this era when
seemingly everyone is talking about "checking the boxes," the Tucson
checks so many boxes that they need to be continued on the next page.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For starters, it's
perfectly sized as a compact crossover SUV ... especially for those looking to
jump into the SUV market for the very first time.<span> </span>No need to move things around to make room in
the garage.<span> </span>You feel comfortable behind
the wheel within seconds of slipping it into Drive for the very first time.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It handles with
midsize sedan ease. My Tucson had a 1.6-liter turbo-4 base power plant handling the
chores. The engine is rated at 180 horsepower; the electric motor maxes at 90
horses. Strong enough, and then some.<br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In the tester, fuel
cost concerns fell to the bottom of the list. My ride had a combined
city-highway fuel rating of 35 miles per gallon. Throw in the electric
factor, that jumped to a whopping 80 miles per gallon.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Right away, you feel
like you're ahead of the game. Because you are.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, now it's time to
look around the interior cabin and appreciate what has been installed there.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There's admirable
roominess for a small SUV, and beyond that, my tester was loaded with luxury
and customer-pleasing perks. The lengthy list included leather seating
surfaces/steering wheel, a hands-free power liftgate, rear cross-traffic
collision-avoidance system, surround-view monitor, rain-sensing windshield
wipers and an excellent 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My tester was
essentially a $50,000 to $55,000 package, but Hyundai has a habit of offering
its vehicles for thousands less than similarly equipped competitors. So, no
surprise at the bottom line on the tested Tucson: $46,305.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Throw in Hyundai's
generous warranties and ever-improving reliability ratings and one is
hard-pressed to find a worthy compact crossover SUV segment rival.<br /></span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-77990727004709890412023-11-09T12:37:00.000-08:002023-11-09T12:37:53.699-08:00Toyota's Crown features lifted look, hybrid power<p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</xml><![endif]--><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background: white; color: black;">This review first appeared in the October 2023 edition of the</span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: black;"> <b>Cruisin' News</b><span>,
</span></span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span></i><i><span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic
auto news & marketplace."</span></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span> To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit <b>www.cruisinnews.com</b>, call (916)
933-0949 or send an email request to <b>subscribe@cruisinnews.com</b>.<span> </span>Mailed requests for information should be
sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.</span></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Sacramento, California -- The names of venerable Toyota
models roll effortlessly off the tongue: Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, Toyota
Prius ...</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Toyota Crown.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Did that last one trip you up?<span> </span>Perhaps. Yet that model name has been in the
global marketplace since the mid-1950s.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Let me explain.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-srK640VoeD4XcZYeEFm1ZdZAQknTCnOJpEoxzZ2L_DsxrPpE1kWwAnhoTeo1GkJbHWPNa70OkwuuxbYKkLkaO7oZ3HHf5-_6ffPDWVk-QLStDAMMhzc_P9tAtb7ISaLCCWLrX5xISIRgrEW-tDDDyikxr5TdXLUuWhWUbNQMs7pRWc8Gkacpk68yQ0/s1500/Crown%203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="1500" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-srK640VoeD4XcZYeEFm1ZdZAQknTCnOJpEoxzZ2L_DsxrPpE1kWwAnhoTeo1GkJbHWPNa70OkwuuxbYKkLkaO7oZ3HHf5-_6ffPDWVk-QLStDAMMhzc_P9tAtb7ISaLCCWLrX5xISIRgrEW-tDDDyikxr5TdXLUuWhWUbNQMs7pRWc8Gkacpk68yQ0/s320/Crown%203.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">The Toyota Crown's arrival in the United States edges the
long-standing Toyota Avalon sedan to the sidelines. In a nutshell, the Crown
sedan hopes to lure a diverse group of buyers who have grown accustomed to
crossover SUVs, fuel-sipping powertrains and distinctive styling.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">To that end, all three Crown trim levels feature hybrid
systems, a "lifted" sedan look and some saucy styling on the front
and back ends.<span> </span>All-wheel drive is part
of the package as well.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">So while the Crown label has been around for decades, it's a
newbie name to most on our shores.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">My 2023 Crown Limited sedan was a fetching number in
"Supersonic Red" paint and eye-catching round/angular cuts on the
front and rear bumpers. It rode high on 19-inch alloy wheels. It's certainly
not a staid-looking four-door vehicle.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">And I couldn't complain about a hybrid system getting 42
miles per gallon in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. The old-school part of
the hybrid system was a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">On the move, the Crown was responsive and a few notches above
peppy, rated at 236 horsepower. (Please note: The top-level Platinum model puts
out 340 net horsepower.)</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Accelerations in my tester were brisk, and the Crown
demonstrated admirable darting ability when I wanted to get in and out of tight
spots in a hurry.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">The tester also doubled as a luxury liner with a strong list
of standard features, including heated rear seats and a dazzling 12.3-inch
multimedia control center that handled numerous chores.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Even with a nearly $3,000 Technology Package, the bottom line
on the tested Crown's sticker came in at $50,648 ... or about $7,500 to $10,000
less than what one might expect in today's market.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">All in all, a solid effort.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">The zillion-dollar question: Will the changes/features found
in the Crown prompt thousands of consumers to write checks for the car in the
financial offices of dealerships nationwide?<span>
</span>Time will tell.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">What I do know is that Toyota has a history of instituting
shifts and making pivots that have proved lucrative.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">It will be interesting to see if this Crown ends up being
another jewel.</span></span></p>Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-77095721088055981352023-11-02T12:48:00.000-07:002023-11-02T12:48:09.815-07:00Luxurious Lexus SUV reviewed in latest Cruisin' News<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">My review of the </span></span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">2023 Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury sport-utility vehicle can be seen in the latest, November 2023, edition of the <b><i>Cruisin' News</i></b>, "Oregon, Nevada
and California's classic auto news and marketplace."</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span>
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">The "Hot Laps" reviews,
along with my "Oil Drips" observations on anything with wheels,
appear monthly in the publication.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="line-height: 115%;">To subscribe to the Cruisin' News,
visit <b>www.cruisinnews.com</b>, call
(916) 933-0949 or send an email request to <b>subscribe@cruisinnews.com</b>.<span> </span>Mailed requests for information should be
sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-24158392907375158742023-11-02T11:29:00.000-07:002023-11-02T11:29:06.032-07:00Mazda3 hatch shows its strengths in Lake Tahoe trip<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- A late October trip to Lake Tahoe.<span> </span>What is the best vehicle for the job?</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Based on my recent
trip, I nominate the 2024 Mazda3 2.5 Turbo hatchback, equipped with the Premium
Plus package and all-wheel drive.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">How so?<span> </span>It covers all the bases.<span> </span>Let me count the ways.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSX3h3PqS-uKVrTIx9LN2AaU_zqrHTpUoHhpJjdcfRAXrQcB7cWhhyKRTDLTVak2oCFQF4fdWouoO53-I2GVh9BoEw9d6Coepga9e2DQqVdSW-wfSQSpc-_HqAQJgMhl4A-3r7U_0uzhqWQzBvdKm2LZUXsEWGoEdNxJqCGZ49LlwA8N_Q4mR4MGE0DM8/s3000/Mazda%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSX3h3PqS-uKVrTIx9LN2AaU_zqrHTpUoHhpJjdcfRAXrQcB7cWhhyKRTDLTVak2oCFQF4fdWouoO53-I2GVh9BoEw9d6Coepga9e2DQqVdSW-wfSQSpc-_HqAQJgMhl4A-3r7U_0uzhqWQzBvdKm2LZUXsEWGoEdNxJqCGZ49LlwA8N_Q4mR4MGE0DM8/s320/Mazda%201.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">For starters, you
need a vehicle capable of tackling the tricky Highway 50 run up to Daggett Pass
in Nevada.<span> </span>From the Sacramento Valley floor to the pass summit, that's a climb of nearly 7,500 feet.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The turbo-boosted
Mazda3 handled it like a champ. The 2.5-liter engine is rated at 227 horsepower
with 87 octane gas, but the power curve jumps to 250 horses with 93
octane.<span> </span>Either way, the Mazda3 tester charged
into hill climbs with muscular vigor.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In those short
passing zones on Highway 50, the Mazda dusted off stragglers in quick order
before zipping back into line with one quick twist of the wrists. Fuel mileage
is pretty good at 23 miles per gallon in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Inside the hatch, there are
more road trip advantages.<span> </span>With the rear
seats folded flat, two full-size suit cases fit perfectly side by side, still leaving plenty more
room to haul additional gear.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With the Premium
Plus package, I was treated to a nearly obscene amount of perks for a five-door
hatch. That's in addition to a full boat of safety/security technology.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Among the long list
of items, I was particularly impressed with the easy-to-use, easy-to-see
10.25-inch center color display, with touchscreen functionality.<span> </span>On unfamiliar roads, the nav system kept me
informed and secure in all situations.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, what's the
cost.<span> </span>Figure $45,000, right?<span> </span>Try $38,410 on the test vehicle ... a bargain
to be sure.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mazda never
disappoints with performance and driving-enhancement technology, making short road trips or long
cross-country drives a snap.<span> </span>The Mazda3
I had was a vehicle I could trust in the high country, and fun to drive all the way
around.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-35565981819066149272023-10-26T11:13:00.003-07:002023-10-26T11:13:47.499-07:00Venza Nightshade: It's Batman's ride and much more<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- In its efforts to please seemingly everybody in the sport-utility
vehicle segment, Toyota offers the just-right-size Venza -- a five-passenger
midsize that's bigger than the tiny travelers but smaller than the line's
behemoths.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And my tester -- a
2023 Toyota Venza XLE Nightshade -- went a couple steps better than that, with
a gas-sipping hybrid powertrain system and the Nightshade treatment.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsfXUPEhxBX3L9OKOiFJUi9aNfqYBV2Gxho9y9Nt0-xx0WR1CzLkk-cdhX_8-5KsAuXeK3saQVzwc2UKuGwmK9XX5FT_Wre3nFELpXYOXQChvV7looaotSOrJr9y7rbVTwYjx-15c5VsnxHyd_vlTRD1HH2NWn0RcGtkwbNUSX4dkrQUnx9xACbf62IE/s1232/Venza%201.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1052" data-original-width="1232" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfsfXUPEhxBX3L9OKOiFJUi9aNfqYBV2Gxho9y9Nt0-xx0WR1CzLkk-cdhX_8-5KsAuXeK3saQVzwc2UKuGwmK9XX5FT_Wre3nFELpXYOXQChvV7looaotSOrJr9y7rbVTwYjx-15c5VsnxHyd_vlTRD1HH2NWn0RcGtkwbNUSX4dkrQUnx9xACbf62IE/w320-h219/Venza%201.png" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">If Batman wanted an
SUV, this would be the one he'd drive.<span>
</span>The Nightshade touches include a black front grille with smoked chrome
trim, black wheels, black roof rails and black mirror caps and rear badges. A
bold look?<span> </span>You bet.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Power comes from a
2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine matched with a hybrid system. From the cockpit,
it can be tuned to EV, Eco, Normal and Sport functions.<span> </span>In Sport mode, the combined 219 horsepower
package is pleasingly peppy.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The tester held its
own with just about everything on the road, and quietly at that. Per usual, the
Toyota was firm in the corners and balanced in all conditions.<span> </span>A pleasure to drive.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The hybrid system
produces admirable fuel mileage figures of 40 miles per gallon in the city and
37 mpg on the highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My ride, with a
bottom line of $41,665 on the sticker, was packed with a long list of standard
features, including a hands-free power liftgate, heated front seats and
dual-zone climate control with rear vents.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A full suite of
safety technology features made me feel secure, as did the max five-star
federal government overall safety rating based on crash test results.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In sum, the Venza
continues to be an excellent choice for SUV buyers who need a bit more than a
RAV4 but don't want to break the bank purchasing a massive sport-ute.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Throw in the
Nightshade look and, well, Batman certainly would be pleased.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-12292294120526578202023-10-17T09:27:00.000-07:002023-10-17T09:27:02.279-07:00Luxurious Lexus a versatile SUV with a hybrid bonus<p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i>, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento,
California -- You're looking for an SUV that stands out, with luxury and a
feisty engine. Not too big, mind you.<span>
</span>With some good fuel mileage And not so pricey as to prompt that second
mortgage campaign.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What fits that bill
is the recently tested 2024 Lexus NX 350h Luxury sport-ute, a compact
five-seater that plays the role of Swiss Army Knife in this segment.<span> </span>It's versatile.<span> </span>And there's a lot to like.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimtNvhyphenhyphenNQ27oAa9a_D9kgvb2pDYeNJInnNqXHpt2SIF8OlTHh7x83UVE8WgDPtVoPNshBYZbEhD9FctOisgOD-jOcuLNu3LQM8dgb_YUfFFx7x6yb4kxgLFIqfWGWHj1_Rt14Ky9O6r6O6wQUiwhZg8cO2ZSQk3mSH9pj-zt24k17YQxmZr23qPl981l4/s2560/Lexus%20Uno.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1707" data-original-width="2560" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimtNvhyphenhyphenNQ27oAa9a_D9kgvb2pDYeNJInnNqXHpt2SIF8OlTHh7x83UVE8WgDPtVoPNshBYZbEhD9FctOisgOD-jOcuLNu3LQM8dgb_YUfFFx7x6yb4kxgLFIqfWGWHj1_Rt14Ky9O6r6O6wQUiwhZg8cO2ZSQk3mSH9pj-zt24k17YQxmZr23qPl981l4/s320/Lexus%20Uno.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">The tester had the
classic SUV look and stance, with the now-expected massive grille.<span> </span>Within the skin, the "Luxury" label
was evident.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Notable features
included a power moonroof, a power rear door with kick-open sensor, rain-sensing
wipers, intuitive parking, heated/ventilated seats, head-up display and
thematic ambient lighting.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The list of
multimedia/technology features was equally long and impressive. I particularly
liked the steering-assist system that was subtle and helpful. State-of-the-art
connected technologies were extensive and diverse ... enough so that you might
need to consult your favorite teenager to master all of them.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Lexus
Hybrid Drive system pairs a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine with two
high-torque electric drive motor-generators to propel the sport-ute with vigor.
The all-wheel-drive system operates seamlessly, and I found the NX rock-solid
in cornering maneuvers.<span> </span>The advertised
zero-to-60-mph time is 7.2 seconds.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The
hybrid powertrain produces a combined 240 horsepower, and it's essentially
guilt-free with the hybrid technology equating to 41 miles per gallon in the
city and 37 mpg on the highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For
a loaded Lexus, I thought the $56,430 bottom line on the sticker was a relative
bargain, especially with about $7,000 in options part of the deal.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Overall,
this NX is another strong Lexus offering for the 2024 model year.</span></span></p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-80751729326777624032023-10-12T12:30:00.000-07:002023-10-12T12:30:33.997-07:00Sixth-generation Impreza is the best of the line<p><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "inherit","serif";">Mark
Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the <b><span style="background: white;">Cruisin’ News</span></b></span></i><i><span style="font-family: "inherit","serif";">, <span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news &
marketplace."</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Sacramento,
California -- The venerable Subaru Impreza rolls out its sixth-generation
vehicle for the 2024 model year, and while some might scoff at even the thought of a
hatchback, this new Impreza is the best in the compact hatchback universe.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">When did five doors
look so sleek and functional?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">My tester was the 2024
Impreza RS with a peppy 2.5-liter, four-cylinder boxer engine rated at
182-horsepower and matched to continuously variable transmission. With
near-perfect balance and increased torsional rigidity, the tester zipped off
the line with nary a wiggle and accelerated smoothly up the road.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2EkGhqPHegzEGlmcDIn_w1GpAE2gFDWp6FTbH2iuBQc8mkYTuxnfmObJNMHK1n7MX8JAgz9jTkkkWRm6gb9XA1RJJXhd5Rv_kcZdcJL6nyHFMQsSKh3GxF8PH_ATTl9F8RSYWpd8uTA-BoU-yEU_UWMc_8hYXurLpl80vHIwltTbbKvCewIFRRyGQ3-E/s7746/Impreza%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5167" data-original-width="7746" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2EkGhqPHegzEGlmcDIn_w1GpAE2gFDWp6FTbH2iuBQc8mkYTuxnfmObJNMHK1n7MX8JAgz9jTkkkWRm6gb9XA1RJJXhd5Rv_kcZdcJL6nyHFMQsSKh3GxF8PH_ATTl9F8RSYWpd8uTA-BoU-yEU_UWMc_8hYXurLpl80vHIwltTbbKvCewIFRRyGQ3-E/s320/Impreza%201.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The Impreza was
likewise balanced in hard corners and slalomed through freeway traffic with
remarkable ease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The handling alone
would have been worth the price of admission: a most reasonable $28,975.<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">The tester's aerodynamic look
was enhanced by a striking "Oasis Blue Pearl" paint job that stood out
beautifully in parking lots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Riding on
18-inch alloy wheels with a dark-gray finish added to the eye appeal.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">This being a Subaru,
it's loaded with the latest technology, which both enhances the driving experience and makes
it safer.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">That includes
standard </span>EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which enhances the range of
vision, braking and trouble-spotting ... careless pedestrians or
all-over-the-road bicyclists, for example. The Automatic Emergency Steering system
is designed to avoid collisions at speeds of less than 50 miles per hour.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">I will confess that these systems worked somewhat
aggressively, making slight adjustments of the steering wheel in my hands as a
I motored along.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The systems demand
driving excellence. Given that, they are doing their jobs well.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">Per usual, fuel mileage is good at 26 miles per gallon in the
city and 33 mpg on the highway. Another bonus: the back storage area is surprisingly roomy.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">The Subaru Impreza holds a special place in my heart, given
its sterling history of safety awards and development of all-wheel drive. It
has been around for more than 30 years now, and it's never looked -- or
performed -- better than right now.</p>
Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-979013448570053526.post-31815363321043001252023-10-05T11:35:00.000-07:002023-10-05T11:35:57.814-07:00Here's what to do with $100K and a need for speed<p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</xml><![endif]--><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background: white; color: black;">This review first appeared in the September 2023 edition of the</span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: black;"> <b>Cruisin' News</b><span>,
</span></span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: #555544;">"</span></i><i><span>Oregon, Nevada and California's classic
auto news & marketplace."</span></i></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><i style="font-family: inherit;"><span>To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit <b>www.cruisinnews.com</b>, call (916)
933-0949 or send an email request to <b>subscribe@cruisinnews.com</b>.<span> </span>Mailed requests for information should be
sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.</span></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Sacramento, California -- It turns heads just parked at the
grocery store. It appears to have a lot of Corvette DNA in it. But it's pricier
than a basic 'Vette ... six figures to get into the game, my friend.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">It's the 2023 Lexus LC 500 coupe. And in circles where
$100,000 is just the ante for one hand of poker, it's worth every penny.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPaMK6ZPtiUYnDZXA_uuzlWkRqdyTzmKqzHz4tbNp6W1HVDV6I8yNCWIGWjYC4puqghlFRreU957ePcHXiVK9Nay_XxBlsUyaxYLZmYsbJ_DMCvtrB5oBRsv463Nmb11psMOE8ZIjbYi6gxVkGABKKo3kTIBel3C6juW-YRP1f7q0kIK2dCGci9csvRPo/s2560/Lexus%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1811" data-original-width="2560" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPaMK6ZPtiUYnDZXA_uuzlWkRqdyTzmKqzHz4tbNp6W1HVDV6I8yNCWIGWjYC4puqghlFRreU957ePcHXiVK9Nay_XxBlsUyaxYLZmYsbJ_DMCvtrB5oBRsv463Nmb11psMOE8ZIjbYi6gxVkGABKKo3kTIBel3C6juW-YRP1f7q0kIK2dCGci9csvRPo/s320/Lexus%202.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">My tester was wearing striking "Cadmium Orange"
paint, which only enhanced the wow factor of the car's super sporty-sleek
appearance.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">It looks racetrack ready at the curb. Lexus says its LC 500
"represents the most passionate expression of the Lexus brand," and
it's no brag.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Stepping into the cockpit and firing up the 5-liter V-8 rated
at 471 horsepower produced a feel-it-from-head-to-toe rumble.<span> </span>The neighbors positioned three lots away told
me they could hear and feel it as well.<span>
</span>No one complained.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">On the open road, the LC 500 makes you master of
everything.<span> </span>No traffic opening is too
tight. You can dart out of harm's way with one quick blip on the accelerator.
You can actually see that surrounding motorists don't want to challenge the car
on any level, adding a certain serene security to an outing.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Fuel cost for the typical LC 500 buyer is likely not a
concern. On the tested model, the numbers came in at 16 miles per gallon in the
city and 25 mpg on the highway.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Even with its $106,885 sticker price seared into my brain, I
was stunned at the numerous comfort, convenience and safety features included
as standard.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">The options list, which added about $12,000 more to the
bottom line, took things even higher.<span>
</span>That included a head-up display (a particularly welcome feature on a
high-performance vehicle), a 13-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio
system, an intuitive parking system and carbon fiber roof and door scuff
plates.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">For those who need an extra rush on the move, the option list
also included a speed-activated rear wing -- just what you need in a vehicle
that makes the zero-to-60-mph run in just 4.4 seconds.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">So, there you have it ... a genuine road warrior with
Lexus-level luxuries and perfect fit and finish.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 150%;">Kind of makes that $106K sticker look like a bargain.</span></span></p>Mark Gloverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13246773368742231287noreply@blogger.com0