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2020 New Cars and TrucksAutomotiveBest new carscrossoverDecisive Media NetworkMid-size SUVNew CarsRandi Payton

All-New 2022 Genesis GV70 Enters Luxury SUV Segment With Class

by Randi
written by Randi

Since the Genesis luxury division spun off from Hyundai Motors in 2015, it has consistently introduced new vehicles and today has a full lineup of competitive sedans and SUVs. With the all-new 2022 GV70 Crossover SUV launch, the lineup is almost complete, except for EVs, expected later this year.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 is the latest entry for the brand. It is positioned squarely in the hot compact SUV segment but at an affordable price. Like other Genesis models, it is full of the newest tech and luxury features and offers more value for the money.

The all-new 2022 Genesis GV70 enters the surging compact luxury SUV market with enough sophistication, attractiveness, and sportiness to worry its competitors. Although there’s enough room in the market for every crossover produced, the GV70 contends with the Volvo XC60, Mercedes -Benz GLC-Class, Audi Q5, Infiniti QX55, Lexus NX350, and the BMW X3 SUVs.

Models/Pricing: The Genesis GV70 comes in seven different trim levels that include: the 2.5T ($42,595), 2.5T Select ($46,045), 2.5T Advanced ($50,195), 21.5T Prestige ($53,795), 3.5T Sport ($54,195), 3.5T Sport Advance ($58,645), and 3.5T Sport Prestige ($63,545).

Power: The Genesis GV70 SUV offers two engine options: an entry-level 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 300 horsepower and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter six-cylinder that generates 395 horsepower at 406 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, and all GV70 models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

I tested the top-of-line 2022 GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige that started at $52,600 MSRP. It came with the optional Sport Advanced Package for $5,000 with Napa leather, sport pattern quilting, suede, heated steering wheel, digital key entry, surround and blind spot cameras, etc.

It also included the Sport Prestige Package for another $4,900, including 21-inch allow wheels, carbon fiber trim, a 12.3-inch display, and other sports features. With the optional packages, the price as tested topped out at $64,045 sticker price.

The Sport Prestige edition also comes with a 16-speaker high-end Lexicon premium audio system, the widescreen infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE Wi-Fi.

Superior performance and handling are a hallmark of the G-Series. Therefore, it is powerful, quiet, smooth on takeoff, and easily maneuvers in city and highway driving. However, you rarely need the sports mode unless you plan to go on a racetrack.

Safety: The GV70 comes with the Genesis Driving Assist II, which controls the steering wheel during lane change, and actively helps avoid other driving cutting you off.

Fuel Economy: According to the EPA, the GV70 four-cylinder engine averages 22 city/28 highway mpg, while the six-cylinder twin-turbo gets 19 city/25 highway mpg.

Warranty: The GV70 has one of the best warranty coverages in the luxury SUV segment. It adopts Hyundai’s “Best Warranty” with a 10-year powertrain or 100,000 miles and complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles.

More to Come: Genesis recently revealed the GV60 electric vehicle (EV) at the New York International Auto Show, which is available for pre-orders. In addition, the Genesis GV70 EV starts production later this year at the company’s manufacturing facility in Montgomery, Alabama.

Go to www.decisivemedia.net for a complimentary subscription to my blog to get updated car buying tips, and reviews on the latest new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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2020 New Cars and Trucks2022 Hyundai Santa CruzAutomotiveBest new carsCompact Pickup TruckDecisive MediaDecisive Media NetworkNew Cars

It’s Here: The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Compact Pickup Truck Arrives

by Randi
written by Randi

The new 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz compact pickup truck has finally arrived in time for those who want a smaller pickup for work around the city without the high cost of fuel. Since Hyundai announced the first Korean-made concept pickup truck at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, it finally fulfilled the promise.

The Santa Cruz Concept Vehicle in 2015

The Santa Cruz is bold looking with a unibody design and modern interior features. Although slightly smaller, the Santa Cruz competes with the Ford Maverick, Chevy’s new mid-size Colorado, and the Honda Ridgeline. The Santa Cruz seats five and only comes as a crew cab with rear-hinged suicide doors.

The Santa Cruz is practical for hauling smaller loads, fits easily into parking spaces, has a lower price point, and is good on fuel. Although the pickup bed is short, it can be extended from four- to five feet. In addition, the entire bed can slide out along with the tailgate, taillights, and rear bumper. The pickup bed also offers a built-in cover.

The Santa Cruz is available in four trims. For a week, I test drove the Limited all-wheel drive (AWD) model, fully loaded with advanced safety technology and premium materials. The Limited has a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with Shiftronic, and a self-leveling rear suspension for off-roading.

Hyundai has a reputation for putting premium quality materials in affordable vehicles, and Santa Cruz is no exception. The top-of-line Limited models come with leather seats, smart cruise control, dual automatic temperature control, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with navigation, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, rearview monitor with parking guidance, surround-view monitor, wireless charging, a premium Bose audio system, and Blue Link services.

Hyundai’s Best Warranty covers all vehicles. It includes a five-year/60,000-mile basic, ten-year/100,0000-mile powertrain, seven-year unlimited-mile anti-perforation, three-year/36,000 complimentary maintenance, and five-year unlimited-mile roadside assistance.

In addition, the Santa Cruz is loaded with standard driver assistance technology that includes a driver-attention warning. Adaptive cruise control is an option on the lower-class models.

Models/Price: The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz pickup comes in four trim levels: The SE ($25,685), SEL ($28,885), SEL Premium ($37,375), and Limited ($41,415).

Power: The new Santa Cruz offers two types of engines, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that gets 191 horsepower with 181 lb-ft of torque and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder that generates 281 horses and 311 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy: The base engine with FWD Santa Cruse is rated at 21 city/26 highway mpg, while AWD adds another one mpg. The turbocharged engine averages 19 city/27 highway mpg.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2020 Mazda CX-9 SUV2020 Mazda62020 New Cars and Trucks2021 Mazda CX-52021 New Cars and Trucks

2021 Mazda CX-5 SUV is Looking Good

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The first thing you notice about the 2021 Mazda CX-5 crossover is its sculpted exterior design. Redesigned in 2017, it has a shark-looking front end that distinguishes it from other box-shaped competitors in the compact SUV class.

The CX-5 Kodo design is carried over into 2021 with an upgraded multimedia system, more safety features, and a new Carbon Edition model. All CX-5 models receive a larger 10.25-inch display with a three-year trial of the latest Mazda Connect infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Mazda’s i-Activesense safety package is now standard equipment on all models. Features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Mazda also upgraded the front and rear parking sensors with high-definition digital clarity.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 comes in seven trims which range in price from $25,370 to $37,505 MSRP. They include the base Sport starting at $25,370, the Touring for $27,110, the Carbon at $28,995, and the Carbon Edition Turbo is $30,760 MSRP. The Grand Touring goes for $30,560, the Grand Touring Reserve $35,385, and its top-of-line Signature Edition goes for $37,505 MSRP.

The 2021 front-wheel-drive (FWD) CX-5 models are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that generates 186 horsepower. All-2021 Mazda CX-5wheel-drive (AWD) is optional. The Grand Touring Reserve and top-of-line Signature Edition are AWD and powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that gets 227 horsepower.

The new Carbon model offers the choice of luxury features without the turbo-powered engine for a lower price. Carbon Edition buyers can choose either engine.

I tested the 2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature for this review, which started at $37,505 MSRP. It includes premium Nappa leather seats, real wood trim, dark silver 19-inch alloy wheels, SiriusXM satellite radio with traffic and travel link, navigation, 360-degree surround-view camera, smart braking, drive attention alert, and much more.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.randolphp.sg-host.com. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2020 Genesis G70 3.3T Sport2020 Genesis G902020 New Cars and Trucks2021 GENESIS GV702021 Genesis GV80AutomotiveAutotrader.comBest Large SUV for familiesBest new carsconsumerrports.orgcrossoverDecisive MediaDecisive Media NetworkGeneral MotorsGenesis G80Genesis G90Genesis GV80Luxury Carsmid-size sedansMid-size SUVNew Car and Truck Test DrivesNew CarsRandi PaytonSUV under $18,000Top 80 Automotive Blogs

What is the Genesis Motor America Luxury Division?

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

Not many people know that Genesis is the luxury division of Hyundai Motors and has an affordable line of sedans and SUVs that compete with BMW, Lexus, Mercedes, Audi, Cadillac, and Lincoln. But that’s about to change with the Genesis GV70 crossover’s launch and the all-new 2021 GV80 SUV. Now that Genesis has over 300 stand-alone dealerships to provide first-class customer service, consumers will also begin to notice their presence.

Despite low recognition, the brand was ranked #1 in the Consumer Reports Annual Ranking of Automotive Brands, won the Top New Vehicle Satisfaction award by AutoPacific, the 2019 Motor Trend Car of the Year, and the 2019 North American Car of the Year, in addition to many other accolades.

The masterminds behind the brand come from a talented team of engineers and designers recruited from other automakers like Bentley, BMW, and Audi. Genesis vehicles are thousands of dollars less than many rivals in its class, offering excellent value and aggressive style. It also comes loaded with more standard safety features and conveniences.

The original Genesis and Equus models were sold under Hyundai before Genesis Motors spun off as a separate luxury division. In 2017, the Genesis G90 replaced the Equus, followed by the G80, G70 sedans, and the GV70 crossover.

Today, there are now five models under the Genesis brand: the G70 sedan, the mid-size G80, the full-size G90, and the GV70 Crossover. The recently launched all-new 2021 GV80 SUV hopes to drive awareness of the brand and more consumers to Genesis dealerships.

The GV80 is the first Genesis built on an SUV platform, with a standard rear-wheel-drive, optional all-wheel-drive, and an optional third row to accommodate seven passengers.

I recently tested the top-of-line 2020 Genesis G90 and was impressed with the style, comfort, and power from its 5.0-liter Ultimate V8 that generates 420 horsepower and 383 pound-feet torque. The base model G90 3.3T Premium is powered by a Twin Turbo premium V6 that gets 365 horsepower with 376 lb-ft of torque.

Genesis now has a complete line of sedans and SUVs to begin competing with comparable luxury-class competitors. The flagship G90 starts around $72,200 MSRP for the base model V6 and goes up to $78,200 for the V8 model. All vehicles come loaded with standard safety and performance technology, and an eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels. The all-wheel-drive system is available as an option.

The G90 5.0 Ultimate is the best option for accommodating five passengers. The backseats provide executive style features with lots of rear legroom, dual entertainment screens, power-adjustable and ventilated seats.

The Genesis G80 sedan also received a significant overhaul this year. Since there were no substantial changes to the 2020 G90 this year, it is an excellent deal as a new or certified-used purchase.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.randolphp.sg-host.com. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2020 Genesis G70 3.3T Sport2020 Kia Soul2020 New Cars and Trucks2021 GENESIS GV702021 North American Car of theBest Midsize Cars for 2021Best new carsDecisive MediaDecisive Media NetworkKia Niro EVKia Niro EV EX Premiummid-size sedansNew Car and Truck Test DrivesNew CarsRandi PaytonTop 80 Automotive Blogs

All-New 2021 Kia K5 EX is a Winner

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The Kia K5, formerly named Optima, is entirely new for 2021 and comes with a bold new exterior, luxurious interior, an efficient engine, and smoother transmission. While many American-based automakers have cut back on producing sedans in favor of SUVs, Asian-based manufacturers are going all out for the younger customer, who prefer sporty cars over their parents’ vehicles.

Although Kia K5 has a long way to catch up with the number of vehicles sold by Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, it is rapidly expanding market share due to its lower price and improved quality. The K5 is also racking up top awards and was recently ranked by Kelly Blue Book as the #3 sedan for “Best Midsize Cars for 2021”, following Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

Both Kia and Hyundai are building award-winning vehicles. Hyundai, which owns 34% of Kia Motors, share the same platforms, powertrains, and other components but have unique engineering and design.

Last year, the North American Car, Utility, and Truck of the Year Awards named The Kia Telluride the 2020 “Utility Truck of the Year,” while the Hyundai Elantra, which shares the same platform with the Kia Forte, won the “2021 North American Car of the Year”.

The 2021 Kia K5 has five trim levels: The base LX starts around $23,590, the LXS is $24,590, and the EX is $28,090 MSRP.  They are powered by a 1.6-liter I-4 that gets 180 horsepower with an eight-speed automatic transmission. There are two performance models: The GT-Line, which starts at $25,490, and the sporty GT, which starts at $30,590 and generates 290 horsepower from a 2.5-liter I-4 engine.

The Kia K5, which I test drove for a week, shares a platform with the Hyundai Sonata, upgraded in 2019. The K5 operates in Normal, Smart, Sport, or Custom modes. The engine, transmission, and steering adapt to meet your driving desires. The new GT has a Sport Plus mode, while the all-wheel-drive option has a Snow mode.

Although the K5 EX doesn’t pack a lot of power, the ride is smooth, and it accelerates effortlessly. It feels like a premium luxury sedan at a discount price. The EX comes loaded with standard equipment, including a panoramic sunroof, 18-inch wheels, leatherette seats, wireless phone charging, power driver seats, parking distance warning, and more.

Other safety features include the Kia Driver-Assist Technology package with forward-collision warning/avoidance for pedestrians and vehicles, blind-spot detection, lane-keeping assist, driver attention warning, high-beam assist, and electronic stability control.

The 2021 Kia K5 EX included additional options for $3,400, including navigation with a 10.5 touchscreen, Bose premium audio, a power front passenger seat with lumbar support, a heated steering wheel, smart cruise control, highway driving assist, and memory mirrors.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.randolphp.sg-host.com. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2020 New Cars and TrucksAutomotiveBest new carsCadillacCadillac CT4Decisive MediaDiscount Incentivesedmunds.comGeneral Motors

2020 Cadillac CT4 Premium Luxury

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The 2020 Cadillac CT4 compact sports sedan is a bold move by the brand to expand its lineup in the entry-level luxury class. Cadillac hopes to lure more younger luxury buyers from European competitors by introducing the latest safety and advanced performance technologies and making a stylish design statement.

Introduced in the Spring of 2019, the all-new CT4 which replaces the Cadillac ATS, showcases a high-tech design, the latest safety and performance features, including super-cruise control, two powerful turbocharged engines, premium electric power steering, eBoost brakes, coated rotors, magnetic ride control, and Brembo front brakes, which are standard on the Sport and V-Series models. All-wheel drive is optional on all models.

The hands-free Super Cruise system assures the driver’s attention with high-definition maps and sensors that watch the road and monitor the driver inside the car. When activated, the vehicle will steer itself and remain in the lane during highway trips.

The 2020 Cadillac CT4 also introduces other features to the compact luxury sedan class, including self-sealing and run-flat tires, allowing the vehicle to continue driving with punctures and not stop to change tires.

The four-door CT4 comes in four trim levels: The base Luxury starts at $32,995 MSRP, the Premium Luxury has a starting price of $37,495, the Sport model at $38,595, and the top-of-line V-Series goes for $44,495 MSRP.

The CT4 gets its spirited performance from Cadillac’s innovative turbocharging technology. The 2.0- and 2.7-liter Twin-Scroll Turbo engines are engineered with sportiness in mind. They include a three-step sliding camshaft along with Active Fuel Management and automatic stop/start.

The base Luxury model comes with a 2.0-liter Twin-Scroll Turbo engine that generates 237 horsepower that is matched with an eight-speed transmission.

The 2020 Cadillac CT4 Premium Luxury model I experienced was powered by a 2.7-liter turbo engine that generated 327 horsepower with a segment-leading ten-speed automatic transmission. Agile and quick on its feet, the Premium Luxury came with a rear-wheel-drive infrastructure for better handling and sports performance. All-wheel-drive is optional for all models and standard on the V-Series.

The CT4 allows the driver to select different drive modes: Touring, Sport, Snow/Ice, and Track. A My Mode and V Mode (V-Series) alters the vehicle’s characteristics by calibrating the suspension’s transmission, shifting, steering, brakes, and front/rear torque for the AWD version.

The CT4 feels smooth and powerful yet responsive on quick maneuvers and during lane changing. The steering is precise, and the ride feels comfortable and sporty at the same time. Rapid acceleration and braking are balanced and together produce a sporty ride in the Sport and Track modes.

Beautifully designed for appeal and practicality, the interior has a user-friendly layout with easy access to touch controls for the audio, climate, and other interfaces. Other features include a wireless charging pad, USB and USB-C ports, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay come standard in all models,

The CT4 Luxury and Premium Luxury exterior design have unique LED lighting, tail- and headlamps, and front grilles with premium hot foil-stampings. The Sport and V-Series are distinguished by a sportier design, signature vertical lights, a rear spoiler, and performance wheels.

The 2020 CT4 is virtually the same as the 2021 model. Additional features added this year include forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, a safety alert seat, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Due to the pandemic, you can contact your local Cadillac dealership or car-buying service for discounts, special financing, home deliveries, and test drives for purchasing.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.randolphp.sg-host.com. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2020 Ford Edge2020 Ford Expedition2020 New Cars and TrucksAutomotiveAutotrader.comBest Large SUV for familiesBest new carsconsumerrports.orgDecisive MediaDecisive Media NetworkDiscount IncentivesExpert car reviewsFordFord FocusSUV under $18,000

Discount Incentives On the 2020 Ford Edge SUV

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

If you’re looking for a deal on a midsize SUV, look no further than the 2020 Ford Edge Titanium. It offers great value for the money, drives like a sedan, and has lots of interior room. Although Ford only has one car left in its fleet, it has become a leader in truck and SUV sales and is outperforming many of its competitors in sales of pickups and SUVs.

Despite the sales success of Ford pickups and Explorer models, the good news for you is that the Ford Edge sales dropped in 2020 compared to the previous year. The timing offers an excellent opportunity to grab an end-of-year deal on a conveniently equipped SUV. Currently, incentives on the Edge are averaging around $7,000 cashback rebate on 2020 models.

Also, Ford Finance offers zero-percent financing for 60 months and a $5,250 cashback on the 2020 Ford Edge to help dealers make room for the 2021 model. Buyers must take delivery by January 4, 2021.

The Edge offers a range of prices and options, from the nicely equipped SE and SEL base model starting at $32,990 and $36,245, respectfully, to the near-luxury equipped Titanium and ST that range from $39,990 to $45,155 MSRP.

The five-passenger Edge, equipped with advanced safety technology, has an extensive list of standard features. The base SE comes with a host of standard features, while the SEL offers more amenities and optional packages. The Titanium has more luxury, while the top-of-line ST is the sportier version.

I tested the 2020 Ford Edge Titanium all-wheel-drive (AWD), powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine that generates 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. The top-of-line ST model comes with a 2.7-liter EcoBoost six-cylinder engine that gets 335 horsepower.

All Ford Edge models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. AWD is standard on the ST and optional on the SE, SEL, and Titanium models.

Standard equipment in the Titanium includes evasive steering assist, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, heated rear seats, cooled front seats, panoramic vista moonroof, and voice-activated navigation. A few other Titanium options included a heated steering wheel, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, and windshield wiper de-icer.

The EPA rating for the AWD Titanium averages 23 MPG/21 city/28 highway. The test vehicle’s base price was $40,095 MSRP, and additional options brought the sticker price to $47,480. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network. www.randolphp.sg-host.com

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2020 CLS450 4Matic2020 Mercedes CLS450 4Matic2020 Mercedes GLB2020 New Cars and Trucks2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 53Best Large SUV for familiesBest new carscrossoverExpert car reviewsFeedspot's Top 80 AutomotiveHybridMercedes CLS450Mercedes-BenzMid-size SUVNew Car and Truck Test DrivesNew CarsRandi PaytonSubcompact Luxury SUV

Review of the 2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 53 Coupe

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

Hoping to satisfy the enormous appetite for Crossover Utility Vehicles (CUV) in the U.S, Mercedes-Benz introduced an AMG version of its popular GLE class. The 2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 53 is a powerful, customized upgrade to the newly redesigned GLE class, but with a hybrid powertrain.

The Mercedes AMG GLE 53 Coupe, which is now available in U.S. dealerships, includes a sophisticated AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter Inline 6-cylinder turbocharged engine with EQ Boost. The combination generates 429 horsepower with 384 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged six-cylinder features a 48-volt motor-generator that gives a quick and effortless lift of power to the nine-speed automatic transmission upon take off from a stop.

The 2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 53 adds another dimension of luxury and engineering to the redesigned GLE Class, which includes the GLE 350, GLE 450, and the high performing GLE 580 that generates 504 horsepower from a 48-volt hybrid and twin-turbo 4.0-liter eight-cylinder engine.

Produced by independent engineers and contractors in Affalterbach, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany, AMG vehicles are recognized by two digits, as in GLE 53, rather than the three numbers, GLE 350, on the base Mercedes models.

The creation of the 2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 53 crossover to the model line-up is sure to win the hearts of younger SUV buyers who want attention, sportiness, and style. The target customer includes both men and women who consider themselves enthusiasts, according to Mercedes marketing representatives.

The GLE 53 Coupe I tested started at a base MSRP of $76,500 and included an extensive list of options that brought the sticker price to $105,324, including a $995 destination charge.

The 2021 AMG GLE came with a broad list of luxury and performance features. You couldn’t help but notice the sparkling red cardinal metallic paint job. Once inside, the interior is plush with Nappa diamond-stitched leather, natural oak wood trimming, contour front massage seats, and an instrument cluster with two infotainment screens: a 12.3- inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch widescreen digital instrument display. There are several ways to execute commands, including a touchpad, waving your hand, steering wheel push buttons, or voice commands. Like Alexa or Siri voice commands, in the GLE, you can say “Hey Mercedes” and then state your request.

Performance and safety options include 22-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels and high-performance braking and exhaust pipes. Other options contain a technology package that includes a head-up display, video navigation, parking assist, AMG night package, acoustic comfort, and a host of other driver-assist and safety technologies.

For more reviews on the latest new cars and trucks, go to www.randolphp.sg-host.com. Subscriptions are complimentary—Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2020 New Cars and TrucksAutomotiveBest new carscrossoverDecisive MediaDecisive Media NetworkHyundai Venue SELMid-size SUVNew CarsRandi PaytonSUV under $18,000

All-New 2020 Hyundai Venue SUV

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The subcompact 2020 Hyundai Venue is a brand new model launched this year. It’s a smaller entry-level SUV that is low on fuel, loaded with content, and priced to compete with compact sedans. Positioned under the popular subcompact Hyundai Kona, the Venue adds to Hyundai’s ascendancy in the small SUV category.

Priced below $18,000, the 2020 Hyundai Venue is about $3,000 less than the Kona. Despite its similarity to the Kona, the Venue is approximately 5 inches shorter and a half-inch taller, which gives it plenty of passenger space and legroom.

Built for the city, I drove the front-wheel-drive Hyundai Venue SEL on freeways, highways, mountainous, and the backcountry roads of Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. Although the 1.6-liter engine only put out 121 horsepower, it was peppy, and the continuously variable transmission (CVT) transmission was pretty inspiring.

Great on fuel, the Hyundai Venue SE, which averaged 30 mpg city and 34 highway, provided a comfortable ride on long trips. The base model offers more value for an economically priced small SUV than some higher-priced SUVs, including an 8-inch touchscreen for infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, Bluetooth, and many other modern safety and technology features.

The Venue SEL I tested was priced around $19,250 and came with 17-inch wheels, automatic climate control, navigation, heated front seats, keyless entry, satellite radio, and a power sunroof. It comes in seven different colors.

The top-of-line Hyundai Venue Denim Edition starts around $22,050 MSRP and adds blind-spot monitoring, synthetic leather, and cloth seats. It only comes in one color – a striking blue paint with a white roof.

All Venues are either backed by Hyundai’s 5-year/60,000-mile or 10-year/100,000 powertrain warranties.

For more new car and truck reviews, get a complimentary subscription to my blog at www.randolphp.sg-host.com. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network

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2019 Toyota RAV42020 New Cars and Trucks2020 Volkswagen AtlasAtlas Features and PriceAutomotiveAutotrader.comBest Large SUV for familiesBest new carsCross SportcrossoverDecisive MediaDecisive Media Networkedmunds.comElectric EVMid-size SUVNew CarsRandi PaytonVW Atlas review

2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Sporty Midsize SUV

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

As long as SUVs are outselling sedans in the United States, automakers like Volkswagen will continue introducing new models to meet consumer demands. It is the reason Volkswagen decided to assemble the midsize Atlas at its manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a smaller version of the midsize Atlas SUV launched in twenty-seventeen. It is two inches shorter and has five seats, instead of seven in the Atlas. They both expand VWs reach into the popular midsize SUV segment.

The VW Atlas Cross Sport is identical to its sibling except for a more sporty roofline. It has the same interior and engine as the Atlas. Despite the shorter trim and removal of the third-row seats, the Cross Sport has plenty of passenger and cargo space.

Built on the same 117.3-inch wheelbase as the Atlas, the Cross Sport has 111.8 cubic feet of passenger space, including 40.4 inches of rear legroom. There are 40.3 cubic feet of luggage space behind the sliding second-row seats and 77.8 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The Atlas and the Cross Sport have the same engine options: a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that gets 235 horsepower or an optional 3.6-liter six-cylinder generating 276 horsepower. Both versions have an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with either front- or all-wheel drive.

The VW Atlas Cross Sport, designed for the American market, is among Volkswagen’s best-selling vehicles. Last year, it sold over 80,000 Atlas SUVs in the U.S., which influenced its decision to expand the model range. Together, the Atlas, with its best-selling midsize Tiguan crossover SUV, accounted for 53% of VW sales. At the same time, SUVs made up 52% of all vehicle sales in the U.S.

The 2020 Atlas Cross Sport, built on an SUV platform, is fun to drive and performs like a crossover on urban streets and freeways. The lower roofline and smaller trajectory reduces overhand in the front and rear and adds to its charming look.

Now that the 2021 models are going on sale at dealerships, you can probably get a good deal on a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. That’s if you can still find one.

The starting priced on the base front-wheel-drive model is $30,545 MSRP. The combined EPA fuel rating on the smaller engine is 22 mpg. The all-wheel-drive version averages 20 mpg, while the larger engine averages a combined 19 mpg. The price goes up to $35,000 MSRP for the top-of-line SE Technology model.

.For more news on the latest new car and truck reviews, features and prices, visit www.randolphp.sg-host.com. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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