2016 Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD

Source: Hyundai.com The all-new 2016 Hyundai Tucson arrived on a cold February day looking particularly sunny and bright in a striking 'Caribbean Blue' shade.  I immediately smiled at this compact crossover SUV that boasted a lot of extras as standard features.  I was excited to have it all to myself for a week. What's New The redesigned Tucson boasts a roomier interior and I saw that right away.  The front feels just right for many adults and the back is able to easily and comfortably transport regular sized grown up people versus just a few teens or kids still in safety seats.  This new model is safer and has more technological upgrades than the previous model that shine through on your daily drives as well.  A turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder engine that is also fuel-efficient completes … [Read more...]

2016 Nissan Maxima SR

The 2016 Nissan Maxima SR is not your average sedan. It's combination of sleek lines, normal and sport drive mode with a V6 engine (3.5-Liter DHOC 24-Valve) and sport-tuned suspension make it a sportier more fun version of the typical family sedan. Who doesn't want a little more of that in their world? Source: Nissan USA First Impressions I learned to drive on a Nissan Maxima but the white with gold rims and tinted windows 1989 version with its talking computer was vastly different in styling than the SR I drove for a week.  The only thing these two cars had in common was the newly redesigned 2016 Maxima can still turn heads (It no longer looks so much like the more sedate Altima!) and the 'Deep Pearl Blue' color on mine mixed with its curving lines on the hood and sides certainly … [Read more...]

2016 Volvo S60 T5 Inscription

Source: Victoria Mason When I found out I was reviewing the 2016 Volvo S60 T5 Inscription, I was elated.  My first car was a 1984 Volvo 240 DL and I loved it like you love any first car.  I drove that brown 4-door sedan through college until I could not get her to move anymore.  It was a sad day when I had to move on even if it was to a brand new vehicle.  The Volvo was my baby and I never forgot her. Fast forward to 2016 and I was excited but apprehensive about this latest Volvo. The last few years as I have eyed Volvo with a tinge of disappointment.  The interiors never got it right.  They were too plastic and frugal to really run in the luxury crowd.  That's all changed.  Make way for a new time for Volvo and one that will have us seeing some very beautiful and exciting things in the … [Read more...]

Tech Tips for Your Car this Winter

The busiest travel time of the year may be over but now is when rough road conditions begin.  Be prepared for all that winter throws you and the roadways this season with these tech tips and more. Did You Know?  The Federal Highway Commission estimates that more than 116,000 Americans are injured and over 1,300 are killed on snowy, slushy or icy pavement every winter. So be ready before you head out the door and fight the wintry roads.  New car technology can help!   In addition to proactive prep, make sure you’re always connected so help is just a button-push away when you need it most this winter. Check out the self-installed solution like Hum by Verizon which provides drivers with access to information, experts and pinpoint roadside. With Hum, drivers can talk to live Mechanic … [Read more...]

2016 Chevy Tahoe 4WD LTZ

Source: Victoria Mason It seems fitting that the last car I review for 2015 is one that we have actually considered buying, the 2016 Chevy Tahoe 4WD LTZ.  It is agreed that we are still a few years out from making the actual purchase but getting a feel for what the market has to offer in large SUV's or any other car purchase can take time.  It is a big buy and one not to be taken lightly. Our next vehicle has to be large, in charge (yeah, I said it) and able to haul the whole family with supplies for a week-long road trip and maybe even carry our beast of a Doberman.  That is not an easy find and I like to do more than just kick the tires. Driving the 2016 Chevy Tahoe LTZ for a week gave me the opportunity to think about what my family really needs for the future and that is always … [Read more...]

2015 Chrysler 300C AWD

Source: Chrysler.com The day the 'Velvet Red Pearl' coat Chrysler 300C AWD pulled into my driveway my oldest daughter was home sick from school. She declared it to be "the prettiest color car" I've ever reviewed.  The fleet driver laughed and agreed, it was his favorite too.  The striking color, intense lines and presence of the 300C continuously provided me with comments from others the entire week that I drove it, including that it was a "hot red car" making my friend even more excited about our Friday night movie plans. Source: Chrysler.com The thing I loved most about the 300C was its style.  It is a head turner in any color.  Inside and out the car beckons you to take in its lines and details.  From the classic Chrysler clock on the centerstack and the quilted leather lining the … [Read more...]

Drive-By Etiquette

It's that time of year again.  Lots of us will be hitting the highways and with it comes traffic, frustration and sometimes the occasional bout of bad behavior.  Here's some tips from Ford  and the Emily Post Institute on how to survive holiday travel this year and be nicer for it. DYK: Last Thanksgiving, AAA predicted that 46.3 million Americans traveled more than 50 miles from home – the greatest distance in nearly a decade. Enjoying the lowest gas prices in five years, AAA estimates that 90 percent of Americans will celebrate this year’s holiday with a road trip. Black Friday Week Sale - Use code: BLACKFRIWEEK - Up to 50% Off + 15% Off All Orders - Starts: 11/20/2015 Expires: 11/26/2015 11:59 PM … [Read more...]

2016 Fiat 500X Lounge AWD

Source: Victoria Mason "It's so cute!" I heard that phrase again and again as I posted pictures of the Fiat 500X Lounge on social media or when entering or exiting the SUV.  Yes, it is considered an SUV, but a subcompact one.  No one expected me to tell them that about this tiny car but it is larger than the you would think while still looking pint-sized and stylish. All new for 2016 the Fiat 500X Lounge AWD arrived at my door in all its 'Bianco Gelato' glory.  That's White Clear Coat for the rest of us but the Italian style must be mentioned and used. It's more fun to call the color 'Bianco Gelato', don't you think?  I loved its look instantly.  The smart black and red interior accents stirred up all sorts of excitement with anyone and everyone who got a look inside.  I loved the … [Read more...]

2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD

Source: MazdaUSA Refreshed and ready for 2016 the Mazda CX-5 comes at you in a fully engaged, fun way.  I admit I was hesitant to drive it for a week due to my lack luster feelings on the CX-9 last year but then I remembered that I loved the 2015 CX-5 so I was eager to see what had changed in the last year. Mazda calls the CX-5 an overachiever and I have to agree.  This SUV handles itself well in so many categories while still being a joy to drive.  First, the Titanium Flash Mica paint job on the exterior drew me to it. It has a depth in its subtle brown shade with a touch of graphite paint color.  When I opened the door I was fell in love with the interior color of black and parchment.  It was a nice touch to the car that felt inviting each time I climbed into it. Source: Victoria … [Read more...]

Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8

Source: 2015 Hyundai Genesis I cannot tell you how excited I was to drive the 2015 Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8 this month.  My neighbor owns one in a light silver and I love the lines.  Mine came in a deeper gray called Empire State with black interior and wood grain throughout. Redesigned for 2015 this model boasts an upgraded interior and more room. It definitely felt spacious in the front and the back (3 more inches on wheelbase) and like the luxury sedan that it is. Since 2009 the Genesis has been showing buyers that a luxury car can also be sensible.  I'm looking at you 5-year/60,000 mile warranty on new vehicles and Hyundai's 10-year/100,000 Powertrain warranty. They both apply to the Genesis as well as 5-year roadside assistance and 7-year/unlimited mile anti-perforation warranty. … [Read more...]