There are many positive aspects concerning the Lexus RX 450 hybrid, yet it’s unavoidable to not shine a light on the elephant in the room – performance. This luxury mid-size sport utility vehicle underperforms when compared to its speedier rivals like the hybrid version of the Acura MDX, BMW X3 and the Audi Q5. The […]
Travel/Golf/Auto reviews
Fuel economy a plus for RAV4 Hybrid
It’s one of the biggest sport utility vehicles in the compact class. And every time we drive one, we swear it looks more like a midsize SUV. Make no mistake, the Toyota RAV4 is considered among the elite “big guys” in the compact SUV field. It’s been jockeying for supremacy with the Honda CR-V for […]
New Honda Civic hatchback spacious
Closing in on its 50th anniversary, the Honda Civic has a glorious history as one the standard-bearers for vehicles worldwide. It was introduced in 1973 with sales of 32,575 – still it’s worst sales year ever. The venerable Civic has recorded U.S. sales of 200,000-plus the past 32 years (1990-2021), including a high 377,286 in […]
Mazda Miata still offers fun ride
The Mazda Miata has been delivering fun as one of the standard bearers in the convertible category for more than three decades. The lightweight roadster debuted in 1989 and is the top-selling, U.S. two-passenger convertible of all time. Although not the ideal ride for all situations, when it comes to delivering a fun experience, the […]
Battery problems plaguing Kona EV
A battery issue is a major concern for the folks at Hyundai. The “issues” were not minor, a fire risk with its 64.0-kWh battery pack that led to a reduction in sales for the popular Kona Electric. That resulted in a massive battery recall that the South Korean automaker is hoping has eradicated the problem. […]
Genesis GV70 very competent SUV
When it comes to luxury compact sport utility vehicles, the list is impressive with at least a half dozen having plenty of merit. And there is one more to add to the list – the all-new 2022 Genesis GV70. It has good performance, a dazzling interior makeup, and combines a nice blend of comfort and […]
Lexus IS 350 getting overshadowed
When it comes to luxury vehicles, the bar resides in a high place. Mediocrity is not acceptable. And that might be a suitable synopsis of the 2021 Lexus IS 350. Judged by the lofty expectations luxury vehicles are under, the IS 350 has a difficult time matching the competition. A luxury midsize sedan that still […]
Hyundai Tucson impressive Hybrid SUV
If contemplating the purchase of a Hyundai Tucson, careful considerable is required when evaluating which one to buy. The popular compact sport utility vehicle has been revamped for 2022 and features three different engines, seven trim levels, and goes green with both a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid model. The focus here will be the […]
Toyota Highlander accommodating SUV
Looking for a comfortable, quiet ride from a midsize SUV? The venerable Toyota Highlander fits the description. The fourth-generation Toyota Highlander got lots of attention last year, thanks to a smart full redesign that included exterior styling updates, improved performance, additional safety features, and some technology additions. The Highlander also installed a more rigid platform […]
Village at Palisades Tahoe offers excellent lodging
The Village at Palisades Tahoe is an excellent lodging location any time of year when visiting the iconic Lake Tahoe ski resort that hosted the 1960 Olympics. We had a one-bedroom condo for three nights in late early October 2021. We loved the condo and the gorgeous window view and private balcony overlooking the Village […]