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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 AMG GLE 63 S COUPE2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 532021 New Cars and Trucks2021b. Mercedes AMG GLA35Mercedes GLEMercedes-BenzMid-size SUVNew Car and Truck Test DrivesNew CarsRandi Payton

2021 AMG GLE 63 S has Power and Brains

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S Coupe joins the high-class SUV category with its aggressive design, super luxury, and a hand-crafted V8 that generates a staggering 603 horsepower. But, starting at a price tag of $116,000 MSRP, is it worth the bucks?

A week-long drive in this super-high SUV convinced me of its superior performance, muscle, and intelligence. Without hesitation, the hand-crafted 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 engine raced from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. The GLE is so powerful and smooth that I had to stay focused on not exceeding speed limits.

There’s no question, the AMG GLE 63 S, was built for the racetrack. Unfortunately, many of its buyers will probably never experience its full potential. However, it is good to know that you have more power and control than most other vehicles on the road. Admittingly, for most people, it’s more of a status symbol than a muscle car.

It is smooth and fast thanks to a mild-hybrid system labeled “EQ Boost.” The 48-volt electric motor replaces a traditional starter and is positioned between the engine and nine-speed transmission to give it an extra 21 horsepower with 184 lb-ft of torque.

The GLE is excellent for cruising along the highway or racing around sharp curves. An active stabilization system prevents roll, and an adaptive damping and air suspension system help increase comfort. Altogether, the combination helps to maintain the balance and command of the road.

The power in the GLE 63 S, managed by advanced computing technology, allows the transmission and steering to adjust to individual driving preferences. They include Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual, Race, Trail, and Sand.

When driving in the Comfort mode, the vehicle’s traction and stability interact more to control the CUV. However, operating in the Sports or Racing modes give the driver more freedom to let go.

The 2021 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S Coupe, loaded with luxury conveniences like Nappa leather with diamond stitching and carbon-fiber trim, is everywhere you touch. The metallic paint job, rectangular exhaust pipes, 22-inch cross-spoke wheels, and large AMG front grille make it easy to spot.

The GLE comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. In addition, there are endless ways to customize the interior and mood, including 64-color ambient lighting that allows multiple customization levels.

Optional features increased the price to $133,830 on the test vehicle. Upgrades included AMG cross-spoke forged wheels, heated massage ventilated front seats, performance steering wheel wrapped in carbon fiber, a head-up display, high-end Burmester surround sound system and a host of active safety features.

Other models in the GLE family includes the Mercedes GLE350 ($54,750), 450 ($62,500), 580 ($70,000), AMG 53 ($70,000), and the AMG GLE 63 S sedan priced around $113,000 MSRP.

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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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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The 2020 Mercedes GLB250 Luxury, Versatility, Capacity and Price

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

When you thought Mercedes-Benz sold every size and type of SUV here in the U.S., along comes the all-new compact GLB-class that squeezes tightly between the GLC-class and the GLA-class

Introduced in 2020, the GLB-class has available third-row and seven-seats, which gives Mercedes eight SUV categories, starting at $36,230 for the smallest GLA class and up to $130,900 for the top-of-line G-Class SUV.

The new GLB is a compact luxury SUV that is reasonably priced and offers the seating compacity and versatility for large families. The optional third-row seating makes it more versatile than the GLA-class and the GLC-class.

The GLB-class competes in the crossover SUV class against Land Rover Discovery Sport, Jaguar F-Pace, Mazda CX-9, and the Volvo XC60. The Land Rover Discovery Sport, which starts around $37,800 MSRP, also offers an optional third-row seat.

The 2020 GLB250 base model starts at $37,595, while the GLB250 4Matic adds all-wheel drive for $39,595 MSRP. A 221 horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine seats under the hood, and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with either front or all-wheel drive.

The advanced Mercedes transmission includes a choice of automatic or paddle-shifting with four drive modes that include Eco/Comfort for daily driving, Sport for power and performance, Off-Road, and Dynamic Select that adapts the steering, suspension, and drivetrain to suit your preference.

The GLB250 is ideal in dense urban streets and congested freeway traffic. The twin-scroll turbo makes it quick on its feet and highly responsive when passing, taking on sharp curves, or changing lanes.

Interior conveniences include ergonomic front seats in various upholstery options, dash and door trim in natural wood grain, and aluminum accents. The GLB offers the Mercedes available LED ambient lighting in 64-colors and hues to change the vehicle’s atmosphere to soothe your mood.

The GLB also comes with Mercedes dual 7-inch or 10-25-inch high-resolution displays that allow customization of the instruments and multimedia to match your preferences.

Say “Hey, Mercedes,” and the GLB can hear your commands and change the climate, navigation, and other cabin features. Other high-tech features include a mobile application that will lock/unlock doors, check vehicle status, or schedule service. WiFi is available with a monthly subscription.

The GLB also has many smart safety and driver assistance features found in higher priced luxury vehicles.  It can change lanes by tapping the turn signal, hands-free parking, and the adaptive cruise control to steer and maintain a safe distance behind upfront traffic. It even slows the vehicle down on offramps.

Go to www.randolphp.sg-host.com for more new 2020 and 2021 car and truck reviews. By Randi Payton Decisive Media Network.

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2020 Genesis G70 Curves Niche in the Luxury Vehicle Market

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The 2020 Genesis G70, which was launched last year by Hyundai’s luxury spin-off Genesis Motors, is proving itself to be a fierce contender in the luxury sports sedan category against rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, and Cadillac ATS.

It seems that Hyundai was planning to launch its luxury division long before its Genesis Motors subsidiary opened its doors in 2015.  The Hyundai Genesis was introduced and was than renamed the Genesis G80 under Genesis Motors, and the Hyundai Equus became the Genesis G90. The Genesis G70 sedan is the new kid on the block and the first all-new vehicle platform launched under the Genesis Motors brand.

The four-door Genesis G70 is a serious competitor in the sports luxury sedan segment. It is also priced lower than its opponents while combining luxury, advanced technology and sporty performance.

Genesis Motors which now has just three sedans in its arsenal, has been gradually craving out a niche in the luxury marketplace at a time when consumers have a stronger appetite for SUVs. Despite that, sales have doubled last year from 10,311 in 2018 to 21,233 in 2019. The G70 accounted for half of those sales. It sold more around 12,000 vehicles.

If things go as planned, the Korean automaker will become a more significant player in the market when it introduces the 2021 Genesis GV80 mid-size luxury SUV this summer.

The 2020 Genesis G70 lineup ranges in price from $35,450 to $46,650 MSRP. The base model is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged i4 engine that generates 252-horsepower. It can be paired with a rear- or all-wheel-drive and an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.

The 2020 Genesis G70 starts at $36,445 and goes up to $53,245 for a fully loaded 3.3T Sport model with all-wheel drive.  I tested the 2020 G70 AWD 3.3T Sport with a twin-turbo 3.3-liter six-cylinder engine that generated a whopping 365-horsepower and 376-lb-ft of torque.

With launch control for better acceleration and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering response, the G70 3.0T races from zero to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. The G70 also comes with adaptive dampers that allow for a firmer ride when needed. Overall, the suspension is smooth and powerful, especially when taking on sharp corners and changing lanes.

All Genesis G70 models come with a host of standard safety and technology features, including a 7-inch color display, a 8-inch multimedia screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, forward-collision avoidance with pedestrian detention, blind-sport monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and alerts to help you keep your eyes on the road.

The G70 3.3T Sport offers additional features that include 19-inch allow wheels with Brembo brakes, low-beam assist, parking distance warning, ventilated front seas, wireless phone charging, heads-up display, Nappa leather seats with stitching, heated rear seats, electronically controlled suspension, chrome grille, window trim and much more.

Other models include the 2020 Genesis G80 from $42,550 to $60,000 and the G90 from $72,200 to $78,200 MSRP. Prices for the all-new GV80 mid-size luxury SUV will range from $49,925 to $71,795 MSRP when it goes on sale this summer.

Complimentary subscription to my new car and truck reviews are available at www.deisivemedia.net.

Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network

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