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My One-Day Sneak Peak in 2022 New Models at WAPA’s Car Rally

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The annual car rally, hosted by the Washington Automotive Press Association (WAPA), is the highlight of my year. It is the one time I get to experience many of the latest new vehicles in one day. This year, more than 30 of the new 2022 models were on-site to drive on the western shores of Chesapeake Bay, Maryland.

Out of the 30 new 2022 vehicles at the annual rally held on Thursday, October 2, 2021, I got a chance to test-drive about 20 new models at 15 minutes intervals each. Some of which are not available for sale until later this year.

I was impressed by the diverse choice of models on hand, including the newest electric sedans, trucks, and SUVs on sale for the 2022 model year.  

If you’re in the market for a safer and modern vehicle to protect your best asset – your body – then visit www.randolphp.sg-host.com for the latest reviews on 2021 and 2022 models. I’m looking forward to week-long test drives for all 30 of the new models at the rally.

The Maserati Ghibli is plush with Italian design and top-of-line luxury materials. In addition, it is highly refined and has twin-turbo power that gets 345 to 580 horses, depending on the trim.

2022 Maserati Ghibli

The 2022 Subaru BRZ is super sporty and Subaru safe. It will start arriving at dealerships in November. It is a fast and lightweight sports coupe powered by a DOHC 4-cylinder 2.4 Boxer engine that generates 228 horsepower.

2022 Subaru BRZ Sports Coupe

The 2022 Lexus IS300 F Sport is undoubtedly quiet, luxurious, and fast, generating 241 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.0-liter six-cylinder engine.

2022 Lexus IS300

Completely redesigned for the 2022 model year, the 2022 Lexus NX Plug-In-Hybrid is smooth, beautiful, and more fuel-efficient.

2022 Lexus NX

The all-new 2022 Genesis GV70 is a fun-to-drive SUV, powered by a 3.5-liter, turbocharged engine with 375 Horsepower and 391 lb.-ft. of torque.

2022 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz is sporty, adventurous, with an open pickup truck bed and the versatility of an SUV.

2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a full-size SUV with three rows and seven seats. Ideal as a limousine vehicle or for a large family, it’s powered by a 6.4-liter V-8, generating 471 horsepower, with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive.

2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Mazda’s first all-electric MX–30 is a stylishly designed sports SUV that goes on sale in California this year and later expands to other states. The electric range averages 100 miles per charge. A plug-in hybrid is in the works.

2022 Mazda MXNo key or push-button start is needed. Instead, just sit down in the Polestar, step on the brake, and put it into gear to power the vehicle. The Polestar 1 takes off like a jet. The electric Polestar brand, which started under Volvo, is an independent Chinese-owned company. It has an electric range of 265 miles with a starting price of $47,200 MSRThe all-new 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro is the second fully electric vehicle by VW. The ID.4 averages 334 miles per charge from a 77kWh battery and a 204ps motor. The ID.4 even looks like it’s fun to drive, and it is.

No key or push-button start is needed. Instead, just sit down in the Polestar, step on the brake, and put it into gear to power the vehicle. The Polestar 2 takes off like a jet. The electric Polestar brand, which started under Volvo, is an independent Chinese-owned company. It has an electric range of 265 miles with a starting price of $47,200 MSRP.

2022 Polestar 2

The all-new 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro is the second fully electric vehicle by VW. The ID.4 averages 334 miles per charge from a 77kWh battery and a 204ps motor. The ID.4 even looks like it’s fun to drive, and it is.

2022 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2022 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X rejoins the pickup truck race with a new modern and bold design. Its powerful six-cylinder engine generates 310 horsepower on the streets and plenty of features for off-roaders.

2022 Nissan Frontier

The complete list of vehicles at the rally included:

Mazda MX-30 SUV, Volkswagen ID.4, Polestar 1, Audi Q5, Ford Bronco, Ford Bronco Sport, Genesis GV70, Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Santa Cruz, Infiniti QX60, grand Wagoneer, Kia Sorento, Kia Carnival, Lexus NX, Mazda MX-30, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Outback Wilderness, Toyota RAV4 Prime, Volkswagen Tiguan, Nissan Frontier, Honda Civic, Mazda Miata, Subaru BRZ, Genesis G70, Acura TLX Type-S, Audi SQ5 Sportback, Lexus IS500, Maserati Ghibli, Maserati Quattroporte Trofeo, and the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

 

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2021 New Cars and Trucks2021 RAM 1500 TRX4x4Decisive MediaDecisive Media NetworkExpert car reviewsHellcatRandi PaytonTop 80 Automotive Blogs

702 Horses Drive the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

Named after a Tyrannosaurus Rex, the monster size 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is set in motion by the 702-horse-powered Hellcat engine, making it the most potent high-performance half-ton pickup truck in the world.

Today’s Ram Trucks are part of a global family of vehicles owned by the world’s fourth-largest automaker, Stellantis, recently formed from a merger of Fiat Chrylser and the PSA Group. The new company, headquartered in Amsterdam, owns 14 vehicle brands that include Ram, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romer, Abarth, Lancia, Maserati, Citroen, DS, Opel, Peugeot, and Vauxhall.

Price: The base model 2021 Ram 1500 TRX starts at $71,990 MSRP, while the 702-unit launch edition is priced at $90,315 and goes over $100,000 for a fully loaded TRX. The Launch Edition Level 2 Equipment Group is $7,920 and includes bedside and hood graphics, Beadlock wheels, Harman Kardon speakers, panoramic sunroof, red interior accents, and an array of safety equipment.

Engine: The Ram 1500 TRX, powered by a Hellcat supercharged 6.2-liter eight-cylinder, generates 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. The Ram TRX is massive in size and quick on its feet. Although it weighs 6,447 pounds, it can race from zero-to-60-mph in 4.5 seconds and 12.9 seconds at 108 mph in a quarter-mile.

Since the Hellcat-powered vehicle can also be a safety hazard for inexperienced drivers, engineers took precautions and added a safety measure to limit horsepower. The Hellcat includes a valet mode that is with a four-digit PIN. It disables the driving mode, determines the rpm, and maintains stability control.

The Ram 1500 comes with a part-time 4×4 that splits torque between the front and rear axles. Locking differentials in the axles also help direct torque to wheels for more tractions. Full-wheel-drive is optional.

Configurations: The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX, based on the 1500 Ram pickup, includes the Launch Edition package and the TRX Level 2 Equipment Group. The TRX is eight inches wider than the regular Ram 1500, with more off-road capabilities and an advanced suspension system.

Once stepping up into the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX, you’re surrounded by superior quality luxury materials with all the latest technology, including a vertical 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a hallmark sign of Dodge and Ram trucks. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and navigation. The multimedia display can operate multiple applications simultaneously.

Estimated Fuel: Recommended fuel in the Ram 1500 is either 87 or 89 octane. The EPA estimates for the TRX are ten mpg city and 14 mpg highway.

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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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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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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2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland Diesel

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator, which entered its third year of production, adds a diesel engine to its model line. This year, the Jeep Gladiator Overland gets a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel that is quieter and has better fuel economy while producing 260 horsepower with 442 lb-ft of torque.

The midsize Gladiator Overland is Jeep’s first pickup truck since it stopped producing the Comanche in 1992. It is no different in body style from the other four-door midsize Jeep Gladiators. They all come in a crew cab design with a 5-foot cargo bed, seating for five passengers, and four-wheel drive.

Getting behind the wheel of the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland, it drove better around town than its off-road appearance would have you think. The eight-speed automatic transmission with Select Control provided smoother shifts when changing lanes on highways and going up hills.

Despite a curb weight of 4,720 pounds, the massive-sized Overland acceleration was quicker and smoother than usual for a truck this size. The EPA average fuel economy rating for the Gladiator Overland diesel is 24 mpg, or 22 city/28 highway mpg. The Gladiator gasoline engine averages 17 city and 22 highway mpg.

Unfortunately, the weather was too cold to experience the Overland’s open-air style, removing the front doors, roof, and folding down the windshield. It was a bit noisy inside the cabin from the sounds of the removable hardtop and road. However, it is something Jeep lovers seem to relish.

The Overland I tested started at a base price of $40,396 and a sticker price of $60,435 with optional equipment and a $1,495 destination charge. Standard features include membership to the Jeep Wave, a premium owner loyalty program with benefits, perks, and 24/7 support.

Additional features include Chrysler Uconnect, a 7-inch touchscreen display, automatic headlights, power windows, heated mirrors, automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather-trimmed bucket seats, and a host of advanced safety features.

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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