Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- Somehow, various versions of the Honda Odyssey minivan periodically show up in my driveway.

Not that I object, mind you.

The Odyssey is sort of the Rolls-Royce of minivans.  That's particularly true of the recently tested 2025 Honda Odyssey Elite.

It's absolutely loaded: state-of-the-art safety technology, five-star hotel comfort/convenience features and a roomy, cozy interior that's reassuring to passengers and a treat for drivers.

OK, I get it that minivans appeal to a specific segment of motorists.  But even sports car folks who inspected my ride came away impressed.

First off, it looks better than ever in 2025 with sportier lines and a nicely sculpted grille.  Inside, Honda has upgraded entertainment systems and bumped up the size of the high-resolution touchscreen.

For the long family road trip -- right in the minivan devotee's wheelhouse -- this Odyssey is a veritable rolling amusement park. The tested Odyssey featured wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto Integration, SiriusXM audio and CabinTalk, the in-vehicle communication system that negates shouting to be heard.

And all of it can be enjoyed amid perfectly stitched leather surfaces, tri-zone climate control and a power moonroof with tilt feature.  The power, sliding side doors triggered by a key fob still provide a bit of a thrill for onlookers.  Ditto the hands-free power tailgate.

The tester's bottom line was a surprisingly reasonable $52,275.  Fuel mileage checked in at 19 miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, via a nicely responsive 3.5-liter V-6 rated at 280 horsepower.

In sum, the Odyssey is a minivan segment leader, and a fun-to-drive vehicle for all odysseys.

'Grander' Highlander has all the bells and whistles

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- Let me start by saying that I have always liked Toyota's Highlander sport-utility vehicle.

But now we have a Grand Highlander, which is, well ... grander.

My recent tester was a 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Nightshade Hybrid, and it was a three-row, perk-laden luxury liner to be sure ... with a bottom line price of $56,818.

Some asked: "Isn't that a Lexus."  And the answer is, yeah, pretty much.  It seems that Toyota, as always, wants to have all customer desires covered.  And this Grand certainly goes a long way toward doing that.

My ride came with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine rated at 245 horsepower. It felt stronger than that and handled everything quite well. The hybrid system was rated at 36 miles per gallon in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

But Toyota devotees have more options: the Grand Highlander also can be had with a gas-fueled 2.4-liter turbo-4 rated at 265 horsepower or a road-ripping "Hybrid MAX" power plant tipping the scales at 362 horses.

This being a near-Lexus, the long list of standard features on the tested Grand Highlander included cross-traffic alert, 3,500-pound towing capacity, all-wheel-drive "Trail Mode," a hands-free power liftgate, heated seats in the first and second rows, leather surfaces all around, three-zone climate control and so much more.

Add the Nightshade touches, the optional panoramic roof and panoramic view monitor and we're talking four-star hotel territory.  And yet, you might notice that a couple of those features are geared to taking the big-shouldered Grand Highlander off-road ... although I'm not sure I'd want to risk scratching the exquisitely painted surface with tree branch scratches.

The control-loaded interior is roomy and comfortable, I should mention.  And the exterior looks good riding on those 20-inch alloy wheels.

Overall, for those looking to spend wisely in this SUV segment, I'd says this Highlander is simply grand.

BMW's X3 SUV upholds automaker's stellar reputation

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- I was parked in a grocery store lot when I was reminded that BMW still matters to many.

In 10 minutes, no less than a half dozen folks walked up to my open driver's side window and commented on what a "lovely, beautiful, gorgeous, hot" vehicle I was occupying. And then most went over the top when they realized that the object of their affections was a BMW.

Like a dinner guest learning that your wife's pretty necklace was bought at Tiffany & Co.

OK, I'm convinced.

Sure, my ride was wearing rich "Vegas Red Metallic" paint, made even more striking by a fourth-generation restyling that is both sporty and classy.  But it was more than that.  Folks are still moved by a brand that bills itself as a builder of the "ultimate driving machine."

Priced at $72,225, the tested 2025 BMW X3 M50 xDrive certainly qualifies as a primo SUV in the luxury midsize segment.

For starters, the tester was absolutely loaded with customer-pleasing, high-tech features. What do you like?  My ride had it: adaptive suspension, variable sport steering, multiple infotainment options, Sky Lounge panoramic roof, wireless device charger and enough driving-enhancement/safety tech to soothe the soul of even the most nervous driver.

Seating for five is roomy and comfortable.

Besides the classic BMW grille, the automaker separates the X3 from the blizzard of crossover SUVs by calling its creation a Sports Activity Vehicle.  It's an apt label as the 3-liter, twin-turbo 6 (393 horsepower) dishes up power in aggressive, large helpings.  Once at freeway cruise speed, the ride is buttery soft and smooth.

The mild hybrid system on the tester was rated at 25 miles per gallon in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

To be truthful, it will likely take an X3 buyer a month to figure out all the vehicle can do.  It will be time well-spent, a bonus from an automaker that still matters.

Kia's new K4 is a head-turning, fun compact sedan

This review first appeared in the May 2025 edition of the Cruisin' News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit www.cruisinnews.com, call (916) 933-0949 or send an email request to subscribe@cruisinnews.com.  Mailed requests for information should be sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.

Sacramento, California -- When Kia introduces something new, I pay attention.

That goes naturally for a car company that went from making cheap machinery to producing some of the best motor vehicles rolling on our roadways.

My latest week was in a 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line, a head-turning compact sedan with a surprising amount of interior space.

It didn't just turn my head.  Other heads also were on a swivel, thanks to a sleek, aerodynamic design that seems to go on forever at the back end.

Can't say that about a lot of compacts these days.

But wait, there's more.

The nearly 73-inch width leads the compact sedan segment.

“By juxtaposing the K4’s fastback roofline and wide stance, we split the difference visually between the compact and midsize segments,” explained Tom Kearns, chief designer with Kia Design Center America. “The creative tension that the 'Opposites United' design language stresses allowed us to improvise on the traditional three-box form factor.”

Sure, okay.  Myself and a few volunteer passengers simply thought it looked cool. Oh, it's also fun to drive.

The standard 2-liter, four-cylinder engine on the tester was rated at 147 horsepower, enough to handle pretty much everything in this segment.  But please note, the 2025 K4 can be equipped with a 1.6-liter turbo that raises the horsepower curve to a power-packed 190.

Passengers remarked at the spacious interior for a compact model, and they were equally impressed by the generous perks that came with my ride, priced at an entirely reasonable $28,345 on the sticker's bottom line.

Standard features included driver-attention warning, smart cruise control, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with myriad functions and a wireless phone charger.  Optional extras included heated front seats and a power sunroof with sunshade.

The special GT-Line package added more goodies: a primo Harman Kardon audio system, black exterior accents and a sport steering wheel (with paddle shifters) among them.

Yeah, all that for way less than 30-grand. Typical of Kia to stuff more in for less money than one would spend elsewhere for the same amount of features.

Fuel mileage is pretty good too at 29 miles per gallon in the city and 39 mpg on the highway for the 2-liter power plant.

Ordinarily, seasoned auto buyers recommend waiting until the second generation of a new model hits the market before writing a check for those wheels.

Frankly, I see no reason to wait with this K4.  It pleases varied tastes with multiple trim levels ... for a price that's easy on the checkbook.

All in all, an excellent new kid on the block.

Kia's Carnival reviewed in the latest Cruisin' News

My review of the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige can be seen in the latest, June 2025, edition of the Cruisin' News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news and marketplace."

The "Hot Laps" reviews, along with my "Oil Drips" observations on anything with wheels, appear monthly in the publication.

To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit www.cruisinnews.com, call (916) 933-0949 or send an email request to subscribe@cruisinnews.com.  Mailed requests for information should be sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.

Bravo Alex: a masterful drive wins him Indy 500 crown

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

The Indianapolis 500 was run for the 109th time on May 25. Mark Glover attended for the 60th time.  Here's his take on a memorable race:

And so, after it was all over -- after the spins, the wall impacts, the car part-altering scandals, the racing team firings, the rookie pole position winner and 200 laps around the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway on a teeth-chattering cold Saturday -- the cream rose to the top.

Alex Palou, the 28-year-old Spanish sensation, won the 109th running of the Indianapolis 500. The driver and car that have dominated the 2025 IndyCar season won the biggest jewel in the IndyCar crown. And frankly, looking back, they did it with ease.

I started closely watching Palou halfway into the race.  What I observed was a master at work, a master getting a lot of help from some of the smartest people in high-speed racing.

Palou seemed to be cruising along among the top five, apparently content to ride things out.  I realized that Palou was making very little effort to pass cars in front of him -- cars that I figured were far inferior to his.

A few laps later, I started doing the math and figured it out: he's trying to get home on just two more pit stops.  And he's saving fuel by following in the aerodynamic tow generated by the cars in front of him.

So simple, so brilliant.

It's part of a strategy that has worked for Indy 500 winners dating back to the 1920s.  Don't burn out your car, be patient, strike when it's go time at the finish.  Al Unser was a master at it. So was Rick Mears.  Both won the 500 four times.

I figured 35 laps to go was the maximum risk point to make a final pit stop.  Smarter to get a couple laps below that number.  Sure enough, Palou did just that.  When it was winning time with less than 20 laps to go, Palou blew past the last threat and sailed home with apparent ease.

Checkmate.  Lovely to watch.

And now, the question all the other drivers want answered is: Can anyone beat Palou?

Palou answered that on Sunday.  I'm guessing the answer will not change -- at least not dramatically -- through the remainder of the 2025 IndyCar season, with Palou nailing down his fourth IndyCar title well before his 30th birthday.

Bravo Alex. Bravo.

A remarkable rookie and four Indy 500 contenders

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

The Indianapolis 500 will be run for the 109th time on May 25, and Mark Glover will be attending his 60^th 500. Here's his take on the race to come:

Just when you think you've figured out the Indianapolis 500, a 25-year-old newcomer with no oval racing experience wins the pole position for the 109th running of the race.

Robert Shwartzman's incredible run to the pole -- averaging 232.790 miles per hour over four laps -- was, in my view, the most remarkable pole position storyline in the history of the race. Coming into last weekend, it looked like Spanish IndyCar star Alex Palou would continue his dominance.

Now, all of a sudden, he's surrounded by a crowd of contenders.

No matter, I still like his chances on Sunday.  The three-time IndyCar Series champ has been close previously, finishing second in his rookie Indy 500 run in 2021 and dominating in 2023 before his car was slammed in the pits, a mistake not of Palou's making.

This year, Palou has owned the IndyCar series, winning four of the first five races, and looking invincible doing it.  Yes, Shwartzman is fast, and there could be more chapters to come in his dazzling story, but I'll take Palou's experience in the rough and tumble, turbulent race day traffic.

Keeping in mind that anything can happen in a 500-mile race, I see three others with a good chance to win.

Six-time IndyCar series champ Scott Dixon, starting fourth, knows how to best drive the race more than anyone in the field.  The New Zealand native won the 500 in 2008 and has lost a couple of heartbreakers since then.  He's cool under fire, a master of fuel savings and always fast.  Indy win No. 2 could come Sunday.

Mexico's Pato O'Ward also knows Indy heartbreak, with two second-place finishes.  Last year, eventual winner Josef Newgarden passed O'Ward on the last lap, crushing O'Ward's normally buoyant spirits.  Nobody drives harder.  Fewer take as many chances in the heat of battle.  Will that pay off for O'Ward on Sunday?  Even bet, I'd say.

And finally, there's Newgarden, trying to do what has never been done at the historic racetrack -- win three Indianapolis 500s in a row.  Five times back-to-back race winners have had a chance to pull it off; five times it has not happened, although four of those five came very close.  Newgarden has Roger Penske power and a trophy-laden team going for him, along with his own considerable skills. He has a better than even chance of making history on Sunday.

Ram's pickup excellence shines in the 2500 Laramie

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- You can go through 50 crossover sport-utes and nearly as many passenger cars, but there is nothing quite like the pickup truck segment.

It's brutally competitive, constantly innovating and populated by a relatively small group of competitors stuffed with mind-blowing features and technology.

So, it's saying something when the Ram 1500 wins Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year award for 2025.

And this wasn't Ram's first rodeo.  So, what makes these Ram trucks stand out?

A recent week in the 2025 Ram 2500 Laramie Sport Crew Cab 4X4 provided some answers.

Walking up to it, and wow, it's large!  You see that big-as-California grille coming in your rearview mirror and you just naturally get out of the way.

And yet the tester's road manners at 65 miles per hour were remarkably smooth and civilized.  Kudos to Ram engineers for the combination of power and velvet-glove handling.

Power is plentiful, thanks to a 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel in-line 6 engine rated at 430 horsepower and a best-in-class 1,075 foot-pounds of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

I found the Ram 2500 so strong that it felt restless at anything under 50 miles per hour.  It effortlessly cruised at 70 mph, and it was easy to touch 80 mph with a microscopic move of my right foot.

In the cabin, roominess was exceptional.  Ditto technology and comfort/convenience features.

Perks included adaptive cruise control, park assist, remote start, a surround-view camera system, pedestrian/cyclist emergency braking, a heated steering wheel and much more.

A boatload of options pushed the tester's bottom-line price to $89,590 ... very much in line with the contemporary world of loaded pickup trucks.

Overall, I can't think of anything the tested pickup did not have to please today's pickup motorist.  In this competitive class, Ram stands tall.

Venerable Sonata midsize sedan excels in hybrid skin

 This review first appeared in the April 2025 edition of the Cruisin' News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit www.cruisinnews.com, call (916) 933-0949 or send an email request to subscribe@cruisinnews.com.  Mailed requests for information should be sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.

Sacramento, California -- I hereby confess that, over many years, I have recommended the Hyundai Sonata to folks who wanted my take on a midsize sedan purchase.

What made me do that with so many hot-selling Honda, Toyota and American-made models out there?

Usually, the tipping point was this: the Sonata gave you more for the price.

With the tested 2025 Hyundai Sonata Limited Hybrid, the tradition continues. You get a lot, with the bonus of a hybrid system that gets you 44 miles per gallon in the city and 51 mpg on the highway.

Another bonus: Styling.

The Sonata is now wrapped in sleek, sporty skin.  It has drawn mixed reviews, but I like it.  After all, it took some time for automakers to discover that you could make hot-looking hybrids, instead of glorified roller skates.

Per usual, the Hyundai tester was absolutely stuffed with features.  The super-long list included forward collision-avoidance assist, a panoramic sunroof, heated side mirrors, smart headlamps, leather-trimmed seats, a Bose audio system, a power trunklid, a head-up display and a heated steering wheel.

Bottom line on the tester's sticker: a reasonable $38,810.

Power comes from a 2-liter, four-cylinder hybrid system. The combined gas-electric systems pair up for a max 192 horsepower -- plenty for the open road or hill climbs in the Sierra Nevada.

Perhaps the biggest surprise of all: the refined, smooth ride. The tester was buttery on the freeways and rock-solid on twisty slalom runs.  Other auto reviewers were likewise surprised at the Sonata's ride quality.

This being a Hyundai product, warranties are exceptional.

Overall, the tested Sonata upholds the model's respected tradition, which dates back 40 years now.

The buyer still gets reliability, excellent engineering and extraordinary value. And with the hybrid system, one can count on improvements in the annual fuel budget.

The competition in this segment remains brutal, but this hybrid Sonata stands strong in the crowd.

Cool Kia compact reviewed in latest Cruisin' News

My review of the 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line compact sedan can be seen in the latest, May 2025, edition of the Cruisin' News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news and marketplace."

The "Hot Laps" reviews, along with my "Oil Drips" observations on anything with wheels, appear monthly in the publication.

To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit www.cruisinnews.com, call (916) 933-0949 or send an email request to subscribe@cruisinnews.com.  Mailed requests for information should be sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.

74th Sacramento Autorama showcases cars as art

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- Sacramento once again will be the focus of the customized car world this weekend as the 74th Sacramento Autorama kicks off its three-day run on Friday.

Some of the nation's top custom artists will show off their handiwork and celebrate the area's rich history of car customization on the Cal Expo grounds at 1600 Exposition Blvd.

Presented by O'Reilly Auto Parts, this year's Autorama will feature more than 500 hot rods, customs, muscle cars, trucks, and motorcycles from across the country competing to win numerous awards. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

Event organizers are touting the Custom d'Elegance award presented by ARP (Automotive Racing Products) as a top honor in 2025. It will be awarded to "the best chopped, channeled or sectioned vehicle from 1936-64 that embodies the true spirit of a classic custom." The award includes a $5,000 prize and a custom trophy.

Major "Big B" awards honor world-famous customizers from the Sacramento area, including Joe "Candy Apple Red" Bailon, Dick Bertolucci and Sam Barris.  Another long-standing, prestigious award is the Harold Bagdasarian Memorial World's Most Beautiful Custom trophy.

The World’s Most Beautiful Lowrider award, recognizing the show’s most outstanding lowrider entry, includes a $5,000 prize from ARP.

Hundreds more vehicles are expected to participate in the 18th Annual Sacramento Autorama Drive-In, featuring more than 400 cars and trucks.

The Butch Gardner Club House will again be part of this year's show, with numerous car clubs showing off their prize wheels. The Club House is organized in memory of Butch Gardner, a long-time member of the storied Thunderbolts auto club in Sacramento and a dedicated Autorama volunteer and participant. Thunderbolts club members played a key role in organizing the first Sacramento Autorama in 1950.

General admission tickets for ages 13 and older are $25 each. Tickets for ages 6 to 12 are $10; children ages 5 and younger are admitted free.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://rodshows.com/sacramento-autorama or at the event. Discount tickets are available at participating local O'Reilly Auto Parts stores. Parking on the Cal Expo grounds is $10.

More information can be obtained at www.rodshows.com or by calling 877-763-7469.

'Bargain' Land Rover Defender is loaded to the max

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- After reviewing the $129,680 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Autobiography PHEV sport-utility vehicle last week, I felt it was time to sample something a little more affordable from the automaker.

So, I present the 2025 Land Rover Defender 130 X sport-ute, a mere $106,092 on the sticker's bottom line.

After two weeks of Land Rover motoring, I can understand why the brand has long been the choice of the British royal family. Sure, the royals have the means to afford a fleet of the vehicles, but Land Rover also appeals with sturdiness, strength and power in abundance.

The tested Defender represents all that, and more.

Power is decidedly enjoyable, dished up by a 3-liter six at the heart of the vehicle.  With 395 horsepower and 406 foot-pounds of torque at your command, the smooth-accelerating Defender moves through traffic like a wolf among sheep.

There's virtually no sway in corners taken at high speed, and I found the Defender to be a champ at speedy climbs up steep hills.

In the back, ample room for big loads of cargo (and humans) makes the Defender a versatile multitasker -- on city streets or woodsy backroads. Don't expect any complaints from third-row passengers; they have legroom to spare.

Per usual, the tester was loaded with useful features.  That included heated/cooled power front seats with lumbar support, a terrain-response system, hill descent control, three-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, configurable cabin lighting and a panoramic roof.

Overall, this stout Defender is an SUV that pleases the senses and the driving passions.  While some might ask why one would spend six figures on a Land Rover, maybe the better question is: If you had the finances, why wouldn't you?

This Range Rover is a six-figure stunner of an SUV

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- Auto reviewers don't like to admit being nervous behind the wheel of certain motor vehicles.

But when the bottom line on the sticker reads $129,680, you can't help it.  You don't want to put a single scratch on it.  You want to return it to the ownership in gleaming, perfect shape.

So it was in my week with the 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Autobiography PHEV sport-utility vehicle.

Alas, I did settle down in the vehicle. And I was able to appreciate its numerous charms.  The overall experience is ... BIG.

They say everything is bigger in Texas.  The same can be said of this particular Land Rover.  The price is large and so is everything else. In a good way.

Take the powertrain, for example.  It's a 3-liter, six-cylinder plug-in hybrid engine rated at a whopping 542 horsepower and 590 foot-pounds of torque. One would expect that to behave like a brute on the open road.

Not quite.

The tester was remarkably smooth and quiet at 70 miles per hour.  Kudos to Land Rover engineers for a suspension that seemingly absorbed every wrinkle in the road, swallowing them before they reached the interior cabin.

But when you want to power up from calm to aggressive, there is ample oomph to be had ... darn near startling to be honest. Even at full song, the tester was remarkably stable, perfectly balanced.  I believe it could have taken on straight stretches of road with no hands on the steering wheel.

The PHEV system is capable of 53 miles of electric-only motoring. Gas-only driving nets you 21 mpg in combined city/highway travel.

Those favoring luxury will not be disappointed.

The tester was absolutely stuffed with passenger-spoiling comfort/convenience features and state-of-the-art safety/security technology.  The super-long list included  a power tailgate, leather surfaces, a front console refrigerator compartment, four-zone climate control, a power panoramic roof with power sunblind and power/heated/ventilated/massage front seats.

Overall, it's a remarkable piece of engineering. And worth all six figures.

Hybrid Honda Civic checks boxes, reaps awards

This review first appeared in the March 2025 edition of the Cruisin' News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit www.cruisinnews.com, call (916) 933-0949 or send an email request to subscribe@cruisinnews.com.  Mailed requests for information should be sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.

Sacramento, California -- Knowing the way my brain works -- although some might insist that I lack one -- I couldn't avoid the "four-H" aspect of my Honda Civic tester.

I considered it a Hot Honda Hybrid Hatchback. Yeah, strange, I know.

But a fifth H is true as true can be -- This hybrid Civic is going to make a lot of owners very Happy.

In fact, that's already happening.

My tester was the sleek 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Sport Touring, recently named the 2025 North American Car of the Year and a finalist in Motor Trend magazine's ultra-competitive 2025 Car of the Year competition.

Pretty amazing for a car starting at less than $33,000.  How does this happen in a world of tech-loaded, ultra-luxury motor vehicles?

Simple: This Civic appeals on multiple levels, especially the levels that please car shoppers looking for a sanely priced car.

Evidence? Here's the rundown, the partial rundown:

Great quality for the sticker price.  Fit and finish on the tester was exceptional.  The same for driving dynamics.  Chassis rigidity and ride quality are nearly perfect.

The Civic Hybrid Sport Touring pairs a 2-liter, four-cylinder engine with two motors.  The result is a decidedly peppy sedan that darts into tight spaces with amazing ease.

In this particular passenger car segment, buyers have long felt that they're sacrificing performance for the money.  Not so with this Civic.  With a 200-horsepower gas-electric rating, it can stand up to all road conditions and deliver serious pop when desired.

But keep in mind, this is hybrid powertrain pop.  The tester was rated at 50 miles per gallon in the city and 45 mpg on the highway.

The interior does not feel small-car cheap.  On the contrary, leather surfaces are evident, a primo Bose audio system dishes through 12 speakers and a driver-attention monitor keeps things safe.

Speaking of which, this Civic earned a suite of max five-star crash test scores from the federal government, including a five-spot in the overall vehicle score.

Given all of this, one could make the argument that this Civic hybrid is, pound for pound, the perfect passenger car for the American motoring public.

Can't say that I have much to say in opposition to that claim.

Lexus UX touts compact size, luxury, hybrid system

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- A Lexus level of luxury in a compact crossover package, and top-tier hybrid engineering thrown in on top.

What's not to like?

Good question after a recent week in the 2025 Lexus UX 300h F Sport Handling sport-utility vehicle.

Dressed in sparkling "Ultrasonic Blue Mica" paint, the tester was rated at 44 miles per gallon in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. Just so you know, the bottom line on the tester's sticker was $49,445.

Now that you've done the math -- incorporating long-term fuel cost savings and the initial outlay for purchase -- you can move on to other features.

Ride, for example.  The F Sport translated to sporty tuning that offered a rock-solid, no wavering ride on sharp corners. Freeway cruising was remarkably quiet, the 2-liter, four-cylinder power plant combining with hybrid technology to put out a max net combined horsepower of 196.

The power plant produced significant oomph when asked.

The UX hybrid system shares much DNA with that of the award-winning Toyota Prius.  Simply put, Toyota does hybrid right, being a pioneer in the technology.

The interior cabin back seats are a bit of a squeeze for adult-size humans, but the general comfort level is good.  Luxurious surroundings are excellent.

Among the standard features that stood out: leather trim, a heated steering wheel, a power steering column, adaptive variable suspension, intuitive parking assist, a power moonroof and a power rear door with kick sensor.

The UX 300h exists in a monster-competitive auto segment, but the vehicle's hybrid system gives it an edge among motorists seeking Lexus charms and class-leading luxury and features.

Hybrid Sonata sedan reviewed in latest Cruisin' News

My review of the 2025 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited sedan can be seen in the latest, April 2025, edition of the Cruisin' News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news and marketplace."

The "Hot Laps" reviews, along with my "Oil Drips" observations on anything with wheels, appear monthly in the publication.

To subscribe to the Cruisin' News, visit www.cruisinnews.com, call (916) 933-0949 or send an email request to subscribe@cruisinnews.com.  Mailed requests for information should be sent to Cruisin' News, P.O. Box G, Virginia City, NV 89440.

Refreshed Toyota Camry commits to hybrid powertrain

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- Change is the theme for the ninth-generation Toyota Camry.

And while many motorists get nervous at the idea of change, relax. It's all good.

The tested 2025 front-drive Camry XSE upholds the standards of the much-beloved, monster-selling midsize sedan.

Most notable, all new Camrys have hybrid powertrain systems. The payoff for that on the tested Camry was 48 miles per gallon in the city and 47 mpg on the highway.

Hybrid does not mean anemic, however.  The 2.5-liter, four-cylinder gas-electric system on the tester (rated at 225 horsepower) was highly enthusiastic when asked.  Hill climbs in the Sierra Nevada were particularly, pleasingly brisk.

The tested XSE featured a sport-tuned suspension, which equated to a firm, comfortable ride and excellent handling.  Auto-reviewing colleagues of mine have likewise commented on the outstanding handling characteristics of the 2025 Camry.

It still looks like a Camry but a styling change has presented what Toyota calls "an athletic exterior style." Can't argue with that.  It's a sportier, more-muscular-looking skin on the 2025 model -- a head-turner to be sure.

The interior cabin also gets a makeover, with a stylish, contemporary look. Standard aluminum sport pedals and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters were part of the look on my Camry XSE ride.

The sticker on the special black-roof tester was a somewhat hefty $42,195, but given everything that was on the vehicle, the price was right.

So, Camry rolls on with a new, exclusively hybrid era. I'm thinking Camry fans will be fine with that, because everything else about the latest-generation model is top drawer.

Mazda CX-90 PHEV competes well with the big boys

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- The Mazda CX-90 sport-utility vehicle has saved my bacon a couple of times during our short history together, yet still giving me time to enjoy its numerous charms.

The recently tested 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus upheld the vehicle's standards, sans the bacon saving this time around.

The tester made its case in the first 10 minutes I was behind the wheel.

An interior motif featuring black Nappa leather was easy on the eyes and comfortable to the touch. The sticker read a hefty $60,000 -- courtesy of a super-loaded version -- and included a host of max five-star federal government crash test ratings.

Where to start with the standard equipment?  It was darn-near Mercedes-like.

The long list of included perks included paddle shifters, a power panoramic moonroof, heated power mirrors with embedded turn signals, lane-keeping assist, radar-assisted cruise control and a hands-free power liftgate.

The Premium Plus package included ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs and smart brake support.

All in all, a luxurious setting for 60 grand.

Other bonuses: plenty of room for seven passengers and a gas-electric fuel mileage equivalent of 56 miles per gallon in combined city/highway driving.

That power package translates to a robust 323 horsepower, giving the CX-90 a definite edge muscling into tight spots and out of harm's way.  At freeway cruising speed, the tester was smooth and pleasantly quiet.

Overall, this CX-90 stacks up as a player in a segment crowded with pricey SUVs with strong luxury reputations. If you're in the market for that kind of vehicle, the CX-90 should be on your test-drive list.

Genesis G80 upholds automaker's rising reputation

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- I've been fortunate to test drive a string of Genesis models of late, basking in the glow of luxury and high horsepower.

To understand why this relative newcomer to the scene -- the South Korean luxury/performance division of Hyundai was founded in 2015 -- has pulled down so many car/SUV of the year awards, you need only take a drive in, say, the 2025 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD sedan (pictured).

Let's start from the outside and work our way in.

The exterior look combines class with sleek styling, with an appropriately attractive front grille.  The tester was priced at just shy of $80,000.  Frankly, the look all but shouts $100,000 car.

You want the exterior to protect what's inside, and to that end, the G80 has pulled down the coveted Top Safety Pick award of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Under the hood is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 rated at 375 horsepower.  On the fly, it feels stronger than that.  Power is dished up smoothly, firmly pressing you into your seat.  Suspension tuning is excellent.  Curves are hugged with monorail stability, even at high speeds.

Inside, luxury abounds.

Safety technology is state of the art, and the generous list of comfort/convenience features is pleasing to driver and passengers. Extra-special perks include a power cushion extension, three-zone climate control, rear-wheel steering, power door closure, remote start parking assist and an easy-to-see head-up display.

Fuel mileage is fair for a twin turbo at 16 miles per gallon in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

Volunteer passengers did not want to get out of the car, noting the luxurious surroundings, comfortable roominess and super-smooth ride.

Frankly, this Genesis sedan is as good as anything else out there ... and priced less than much of the competition.

Everything one wants? Pretty darn close, I'd say.

Mini Countryman has Euro touches in a small package

This review first appeared in the February 2025 edition of the Cruisin' News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

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Sacramento, California -- C'mon, admit it.  When you're out there shopping for a small sport-utility vehicle, your eyes can get weary wading through the blizzard of offerings on the market.

Maybe you want something different. Maybe you want something Euro.

And that's just what you get in the tested 2025 Mini Countryman S ALL4.

You want different?  How about rear lights that form a British Union Jack pattern? The centered screen display in the cabin is a large oval, about the size of a serious dinner plate. The gear shifter is about the size of a typical key ignition on a 1990s American model.

I could go on and on, but it would spoil the fun of opening these various Euro surprises.

And that Euro part is a little tricky.

Traditionally British Mini is now under the BMW ownership umbrella, which explains the tester's final assembly point of Leipzig, Germany.

Frankly, it doesn't matter who built it. It's an attractive, head-turning model with a fireball under the hood.

That would be the 2-liter turbo-4 rated at 241 horsepower.  That power plant is a joyful blast on the open road.  Blazing down freeway entrance ramps, the tester dug in and zipped into tight spots with ease. Accelerations from a standing start got my pulse racing.

The vehicle's tight wheelbase made for agile handling on crowded city streets. The tester darted in and out of small gaps with just a touch on the accelerator.  Definitely fun.

The fold-down seats provide a surprising amount of room for cargo. And fuel mileage is pretty fine at 24 miles per gallon in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

My tester was dressed up extra fancy -- including a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system -- bringing the bottom line to $44,295.

I should note that buyers have several styles -- Classic, Favoured, and John Cooper Works -- to choose from.  Each features brand-specific exterior/interior touches.

This Countryman was an enjoyable machine on several fronts.  In the end, I appreciated its versatility.  I saw it as a fun suburban workhorse, and just as much fun as a road trip rambler for those who like spur-of-the-moment adventures.

Either way, the Euro elements are a plus.