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Redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland PHEV

by Randi
written by Randi

The newly redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee is more versatile and upgraded with the latest tech and performance features while maintaining its reputation for off-road and on-road driving in various road conditions. Despite not having any snow in the Washington D.C. metro area this winter to test its all-wheel driving, it still demonstrated smoother and more powerful performance on highways and bumpy streets.

Redesigned in 2022, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a choice of 11 trim levels, including gas and plug-in-hybrids (PHEV), ranging from a base price of $42,830 to $78,870 for the top-of-line Summit Reserve 4xe PHEV.

There are no significant changes in 2023, except for the 5.7-liter V8, which is no longer available. The off-road Trailhawk trim offers the 4xe PHEV engine, and the Limited and Overland get a standard 10.1-inch infotainment display with navigation. An Alpine stereo system is available now for the Limited model, while a 19-speaker McIntosh stereo is offered for the Overland and Summit editions.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland PHEV model I tested started at $69,675 and included several option packages, including the Luxury Tech Group ($2,155) with Nappa leather seats, rearview auto-dimming digital display mirror, wireless charging, 12-way power driver and passenger seats with back massager, and four-zone auto temperature control.

Additional options included Jeep’s Advanced Protech Group III ($2,235) with Active Driving Assist, head-up display, intersection collision assist, night vision with pedestrian and animal detection, surround view camera, and integrated off-road cameras. Other packages added were a Black painted roof for $775, an interactive display for front-seat passengers at $1,096, and an off-road group for $1,095.

Power: While the gasoline model now has a six-cylinder engine, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland PHEV is powered by a 2.0-liter I-4 turbo and an electric traction engine, generating 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid motor uses a 14.0-kWh battery. All-wheel drive is standard on the Overland PHEV and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy: The Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland PHEV has an all-electric range of 25 miles and 56 MPGe gas and electric. Gasoline averages 23 MPG combined on city and highway.

Visit 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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Audi A8L 55 TFSI Quattro – Supersized Luxury Sedan

by Randi
written by Randi

In 2022 Audi condensed the trim levels of its flagship aluminum full-size sedan to one choice. Except for the S8 high-performance model, the only available A8 luxury sedan is the L 55 TFSI Quattro, an executive-style luxury limo ideal for chauffeuring passengers. The A8 L remains at the top of the Audi lineup as the most luxurious and high-tech vehicle ever offered by the German automaker.

The 2023 A8 L has plenty of legroom for four passengers to relax and stretch out in lavish, comfortable leather seats. Plenty of attention was put into crafting the A8 L with an impeccable interior, performance, the latest comfort conveniences, advanced tech, and safety equipment.

Refreshed in 2022, the wheelbase of the A8 L was extended by 122.9 inches to 207.4 inches. With its ultra-lightweight technology, the Audi Space Frame weighs around 4450 to 4800 pounds depending on the options.

Model/Price: Although the 2023 Audi A8 L 55 ($86,500 MSRP) only comes in one trim level, one engine size, and the Audi Quattro all-wheel drive system as standard, there are four option packages to choose from that include:

The Executive package ($3,650) – 20-inch ten-spoke wheels and all-season tires, adaptive cruise with lane guidance, remote Park Assist Plus, traffic sign recognition, and more.

The Black Optic Plus package ($2,750) includes 21-inch ten-spoke wheels with a black gloss finish, all-season tires, black brake calipers, high-gloss black exterior elements, and black Audi rings and badges.

The Luxury package (($5,400) – Dynamic all-wheel steering, extended leather package, heated rear seat armrests, power rear outboard seats with ventilation, massage, Matrix LED rear reading lights, and remote rear seat control.

The Comfort Plus package ($4,100) – Dual-pane acoustic glass for side windows, front seat massage function, HD Matrix-design LED headlights, head-up display, heated front seat armrests, heated rear outboard seats, and Valcona leather interior.

Power: The Audi A8 L is powered by a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine that generates 335 horsepower.

The high-performance 2023 Audi S8 ($121,595 MSRP) is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter eight-cylinder engine that pumps out 563 horsepower with 590 lb-ft of torque.

I reviewed the A8 L 55 TFSI quattro with a base price of $86,500 MSRP, which included the Executive ($3,400), Comfort ($3,250), and Black Optic ($2,750) packages. After the destination charge of $1,095, it topped out at $96,995 MSRP.

Despite its size, the A8 L delivered a powerful and sporty ride, especially over city potholes. While taking on curvy exit ramps and windings roads, it maintained its composure. The only changes for the 2023 A8 L include Park Assist Plus and high-end Matrix LED headlights.

Fuel Economy: On premium gas, the 2023 Audi A8 L 55 averages 19 city/28 highway mpg with a combined 22 mpg.

Visit 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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All-New Electric Mercedes EQS Elevates the Luxury EV Class

by Randi
written by Randi

It was just a few years ago that many of us were EV skeptics, concerned about the mileage range, lackluster design, recharging times, and availability of charging stations. However, a lot has changed since then. The Mercedes EQS is among a flock of new EVs dispelling those concerns, especially with its futuristic design, high-tech innovations, and superior power.

Last year, we witnessed a slew of new electric sedans, SUVs, and trucks, including luxury class vehicles like the Mercedes EQS and offerings from Lincoln, Cadillac, Audi, Genesis, and Lexus, all producing luxury EVs in mass.

Innovations: Although the EQS sits at the top of the brand along with the Mercedes S-Class, it introduces several innovations, including a Power Nap feature to kick back and relax while recharging on long road trips. Power Nap reclines the driver’s seat, activates the air ionization and ambient lighting systems, plays calming music, and closes the panoramic sunroof. Then, when it’s time to wake up, the seat gently massages you and opens the sunshade. Crazy huh?

In addition to its beautiful design and ultra-plush materials, Mercedes introduced the industry’s first Hyperscreen interface, which incorporates three displays stretched across the driver and passenger side, allowing passengers to act as co-pilots or change music, climate control, and navigation. In some areas, passengers can watch movies.

Models/Price: The 2023 EQS sedan comes in three different trim levels with three different powertrains, which include the EQS 450+ ($105,450), the 450 4Matic ($108,450), and the 580 4Matic ($127,000 MSRP).

For 2023, the Mercedes performance division introduced an AMG EQS (starting at $149,545 MSRP) with upgraded electric motors that generate a staggering 649 horsepower. For those wanting more power, an optional boost mode increases that figure to 751 horses.

ePower: The entry-level 450+ generates 329 horsepower from a 400-volt lithium-ion battery on its rear axle, achieving a range of 350 miles. The EQS 450 4Matic is all-wheel drive and ups the horses to 355 with 590 lb-ft of torque. The more powerful 580 4Matic has electric motors on each axle, functioning as an all-wheel drive with an output of 516 horsepower and 611 lb-ft of torque.  However, the range is slightly reduced to 340 miles.

The EQS has a superior ride performance at all speeds and maneuvers easily into tight parking spots. All versions have an adaptive air suspension with a standard rear-axle-steering system that can angle the rear wheels up to 4.5 degrees.

Battery Charge: The average time to charge the EQS battery to 80 percent takes 30 minutes on a DC fast charger and about 11 hours on a 240-volt Level 2 charger.

Although EVs require less maintenance and don’t need oil changes, tune-ups, or brake replacements, there’s more work to be done to protect Lithium-ion batteries from losing more energy in extreme weather conditions.

Despite some continued doubt about EVs, demand is increasingly high, and most are selling straight off the assembly line.

MPGe: The EPA rates the EQS 450+ at 97 city/highway MPGe, while the EQS580 averages 92 city/99 highway MPGe. The EQS 450 4Matic falls somewhere in between.

Visit 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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2023 Hyundai Palisade Full-Size SUV Gets a FaceLift

by Randi
written by Randi

This year, the famous 2023 Hyundai Palisade was facelifted outside and inside with some new convenient features and safer technologies, making it a popular eight-passenger choice for families.

For 2023, Hyundai Palisade full-size SUV has a bold new front bumper fascia with a redesigned grille, headlamps, and daytime running lights. The rear also adds a new bumper with vertical LED tail lamps and a tow hitch cover.

In addition, it received more driver-assist technologies, including Remote Smart Parking Assist and Parking Collision Avoidance Assist.

I test-drove the 2023 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy, which is more luxurious than last year and performed better on the road. In addition, interior upgrades included a new high-resolution 12.0-inch display, ambient lighting, and Ergo-designed leather massage front seats, which were very comfortable on long drives.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade also comes with new USB-C ports, a faster 15-watt wireless charging, and a digital key app that can lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. In addition, it works with the iPhone, Apple Watch, and Samsung Galaxy.

The 2023 Palisade is Hyundai’s first vehicle to offer a Wi-Fi hotspot that allows passengers to search the Internet, listen to music, or stream videos. In addition, the second and third-row seats were also redesigned for extra comfort. The second-row seats can now be reclined, and third-row passengers get heated seats.

Models/Pricing: The 2023 Hyundai offers five different models: The base SE (36,885), SEL ($39,885), the new 2023 special edition XRT ($41,885), Limited ($48,435), and the top-of-line Calligraphy ($50,835 MSRP). The new XRT has a more rugged look with 20-inch wheels and a blacked-out exterior.

Power: Except for a few improvements to the valves and chassis, the engine and transmission remain unchanged in 2023. All models come with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter six-cylinder that generates 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) is standard, and all-wheel-drive (AWD) is optional.

Fuel Economy: The EPA rates the FWD Palisade at 19 city/26 highway mpg, while the AWD averages 19 city/25 highway mpg.

Hyundai’s warranty includes five years of roadside assistance and 10-year/100,000-mile coverage for the powertrain.

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2022 Lexus LX 600 Full-Size Ultra Luxury SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

The all-new 2022 Lexus LX 600, which replaces the outdated Land Cruiser and Lexus LX570, takes its place as the new flagship full-size SUV in the Lexus family of vehicles.

The all-new 2022 Lexus LX 600 was rebuilt from the ground up with a new six-cylinder engine that replaces the V8. It is designed with a Lexus exterior and front grille, with an array of luxury conveniences and high-tech features. The new LX also handles and performs significantly better than the Land Cruiser.

Although the LX is an upscale Lexus, the price range is very similar to the Land Cruiser – from $89,160 to $129,250 MSRP. A few of its closest competitors include Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and Land Rover’s Range Rover.

The new LX 600, built on the same platform as the Toyota Tundra pickup and Toyota Sequoia SUV, will enter the 2023 model year with few additions or price increases.

I was most impressed by the first-class airline-style caption chairs in the rear, reclining and massaging seats, footrests, seat cushions, and an entertainment system with two 11.4-inch displays and HDMI ports.

The Lexus LX 600 Ultra Luxury model I drove included a built-in high-tech control panel in the rear center console that allows passenger control over the seats, entertainment system, climate control, and more. It also has wireless charging, USB ports, headphone jacks, and an executive-style small table.

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Lexus LX 600 comes in five different trim levels: Base ($89,160), Premium ($97,110), F Sport Handling ($103,370), Luxury ($105,110), and Ultra Luxury ($129,250 MSRP).

All models have standard leather seats. The Base model comes with a 10-speaker audio system. The Ultra Luxury takes things to another dimension with a Mark Levinson surround audio system with 2,400-watt and 25 speakers throughout the cabin.

The Base LX has two rows and five seats, while the Premium model can have a third row and seven seats. The top-of-line Ultra Luxury, with all the bells and whistles, seats four with two rear caption chairs. They massage and recline back. However, they do not fold down to make room for more cargo space.

Power: All Lexus LX 600 models are powered by a twin-turbo 3.4-liter six-cylinder that generates 409 horses with 479 pound-feet of torque. Also standard across the range are four-wheel drive and a ten-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy: The 2022 Lexus LX 600 averages 17 city/22 highway mpg.

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

 

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Catching Up with the 2022 Cadillac XT4 Compact SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

Cadillac continues its representation in the hot luxury crossover segment with the XT4. Although it benefits from Cadillac’s curvy exterior design, engineers and designers are hard at work on a wholly rebuilt XT4 that will be affordable and roomy, with interior upgrades.

First launched in 2018, the 2022 XT4 is Cadillac’s answer to the compact luxury SUV market. Sharing a platform with the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, the XT4 competes against a slew of premium luxury crossovers, like the Audi Q3, BMWX3, Acura RDX, Lexus NX, Mercedes GLB, and the Volvo XC40.

On the outside, the XT4 reflects Cadillac’s luxury design; however, the interior has some catching up to match the brand’s reputation for premium luxury without having to fork out the extra bucks for leather, natural wood, and advanced tech features.

I suspect Cadillac engineers and designers have been keeping notes and are readying the XT4 2024 relaunch to jump ahead of the small luxury crossover pack.

The word is that the 2024 XT4 will be completely redesigned on the outside, including upgraded interior materials, and come equipped with more bells and whistles. I recently tested the 2022 Cadillac XT4 AWD Premium Luxury model. It is still a good buy for a small, roomy SUV at an affordable price.

The electric counterpart to the XT4 is the all-new Cadillac Lyriq, which uses General Motors’ scalable Ultium Battery Platform. It gets an average EPA range of 312 miles and generates 340 horsepower for the rear-wheel drive and 500 horses for the all-wheel drive version.

Models/Pricing: If you can find a 2022 XT4 at cost, it should start around $37,490 MSRP. However, the new 2023 models are at Cadillac dealerships now, and they come in three different trims: Luxury ($37,490), Sport ($41,390), and Premium Luxury ($41,990 MSRP). The Cadillac Lyriq EV starts at $62,990 MSRP.

Power: A 235-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine powers all XT4 models. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with either the standard front-wheel-drive or an optional all-wheel-drive for an additional $2,500.

All models come standard with an 8.0-inch display with various infotainment options. Positioned conveniently in the dash, the touchscreen display is high-def and user-friendly. It houses Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot, media, and satellite radio. Other standard equipment includes a power liftgate, dual-zone climate control, remote start, and power seats. Navigation is optional.

A Technology package can be added to the Premium Luxury and Sport models. It includes a digital gauge cluster, a heads-up display, and wireless smartphone charging. Upgrading to leather materials and ventilated and massage seats come with the Comfort and Convenience package.

Fuel Economy: The XT4 has a cylinder deactivation system that helps save fuel. Despite that, the front-wheel-drive model averages 24 city/30 highway mpg, while the all-wheel-drive version has an EPA rating of 22 city/29 highway mpg.

Safety features include standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control are optional.

Visit 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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2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI Quattro Midsize SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

After driving the 2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI Quattro, it’s hard not to want this luxurious midsize SUV. With three rows and seven seats, the Q7 is the ideal luxury vehicle for large families, especially if you’re looking for a plush interior and all the latest safety equipment.

Keep in mind that many popular models, like the Audi Q7, are selling above the manufacturer’s retail price (MSRP) due to the short supply created by the computer chip shortage. Since supplies are expected to recover in 2023, it may be the best time to test-drive one.

The 2022 Audi Q7 has many attractions to consumers willing to pay thousands above the asking price, including its stylish design, the all-wheel drive Audi Quattro all-wheel-drive system, and the powerful TFSI turbocharged engines.

Although the Q7 is large enough to haul seven passengers and hefty cargo, performance is nimble and lean like a smaller crossover. The steering is responsive, and the driving modes adjust the suspension to various road conditions. While the Auto mode is ideal on curvy roads, the Comfort mode is best on bumpy streets and city potholes.

The interior is dominated by premium luxury materials that create a quiet and peaceful environment. Occupants are surrounded by soft and hard perforated leather, matte wood, chrome, and glossy black trim.

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Q7 offers seven trim levels that include the 2.0T Premium 45 ($57,500), 2.0T Premium Plus 45 ($57,500), Premium 55 ($62,500), Premium Plus 55 ($62,500), Prestige 55 ($62,500), and the top of line SQ7 Premium Plus 4.0 ($88,500).

The Audi SQ7 has a more powerful V8, softer leather, adaptive air suspension, and a premium audio system.

Power: The base 2.0T Premium 45 and Premium Plus 45 models are powered by a turbocharged TFSI I4 that produces 248 horsepower. Upgrade to the 3.0T TFSI Premium and Prestige hybrids and get 335 horsepower from a turbocharged six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The SQ7 is powered by a twin-turbo eight-cylinder that generates 500 horses.

TFSI, which stands for turbo fuel stratified injection, combines direct injection with turbocharging to produce more power and faster engine response. It’s available in all engine sizes.

All models come standard with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission that spontaneously adapts to changing gears. A Dynamic Shift Program (DSP) independently determines the driver’s style and selects the best gear.

Fuel Economy: The Q7 Premium 45 averages 20 city/25 highway mpg, while the Premium 55 and Premium Plus models get 18 city/23 highway. The robust SQ7 averages 15 city/21 highway mpg. The Q7 also offers a plug-in hybrid with an all-electric range of 28 city/29 highway miles.

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

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2022 Volkswagen Golf R 2.0T Returns with a Bang

by Randi
written by Randi

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R returns after a three-year hiatus with more power and performance characteristics than its predecessor. The redesigned Golf R hatchback’s new turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system is a joy to drive.

Although the 2022 Golf R and the less expensive GTI returned to the U.S. with flair, the regular Golf hatchback will not be coming to these shores.

Models/Price: Priced at $44,185, the base Golf R comes fully loaded in a standard six-speed manual or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for $44,890 MSRP.

Both models have a full suite of driver assistance and safety features, including adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Golf R has premium quality interior features that include the latest technology and conveniences, including a 10.2-inch display, sports seats, Napa leather, carbon-like trim, stainless-steel pedals, and ambient lighting with 30 colors.

Underneath its conventional-looking exterior is sporty features that contribute to its smooth handling and power, including four chrome exhaust outlets, side skirts, a rear spoiler, cross-drilled front brake rotors, and 19-inch wheels.

Power: The 2022 Golf R is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that generates 315 horsepower at 310 lb-ft of torque versus the 288 horses in the previous model.

Controlled cornering and maneuvering have been improved by an advanced 4Motion all-wheel-drive system featuring a rear differential, which transfers torque between the right and left rear wheels for better handling. An R button on the steering wheel activates various drive modes: Comfort, Individual, Drift, Special, Sport, or Race. Comfort was my choice in dense traffic, while Sport worked best in highway situations.

Fuel Economy: EPA fuel ratings for the Golf R automatic is 23 city/30 highway mpg, while the manual transmission averages less at 20 city/28 highway mpg.

Visit 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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All-New 2022 Toyota Tundra Faces High Hurdles

by Randi
written by Randi

An all-new Tundra enters its third generation as Toyota’s redesigned full-size pickup truck. Built from the ground up, it was engineered to compete with the number one selling Ford F-150, Dodge Ram 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and the Chevy Silverado. They are fierce competitors.

Despite selling 109,203 Tundra’s in 2020, compared to 787,422 F-150s, the all-new 2022 Toyota Tundra is completely rebuilt with stylish new exterior and interior designs, the latest technology, improved ride quality, a powerful new twin-turbocharged engine, and a standard or optional hybrid system.

Although sales of the previous Tundra declined 25 percent last year, the new Tundra hopes to restore demand. However, production is still hampered by a chip shortage, and the Tundra is still far short of competing with the Big Three rivals, which dominate truck sales in the U.S.

My recent test drive of the top-of-line 2022 Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition disclosed its competitive spirit. The 1794 model is a four-door CrewMax, which is built in the U.S., was originally launched in 2014 and is named after a Texas Cattle rancher named Juan Ignacio de Casanova.

Models/Price: The all-new 2022Toyota Tundra full-size pickup truck comes in six different models with a wide selection of styles, which include: Tundra SR ($35,950), Tundra SR5 ($40,755), Tundra Limited ($46,850), Tundra Platinum ($56,990), Tundra 1794 ($57,690), Tundra TRD Pro ($49,125), and the Tundra Capstone Hybrid ($74,230 MSRP).

Each model comes in either CrewMax or Double Cab with a choice of two cargo bed sizes: a 6.5 or a 5.5-foot short bed.

Power: The new Tundra drops the V8 for a new I-FORCE 3.5-liter six-cylinder turbocharged engine that gets 348 and 405 lb-ft of torque from the standard engine and 389 horsepower and 479-lb-ft. of torque from the optional engine. When the available i-FORCE engine is paired with the Toyota electric battery hybrid system, as it is in the TRD Pro and Capstone models, power is increased to 437 horses with 583 lb-ft of torque.

The Hybrid system is optional on the Limited, Platinum, 1794, and standard on the TRD Pro and Capstone models. The 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid models range from $52,300 to $73,530 MSRP.

Fuel Economy: The 2022 Toyota Tundra averages 24 highway/18 city MPG.

Visit 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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2022 Audi RS e-tron GT in Tango Red Metallic: The Quiet Storm

by Randi
written by Randi

Long, low, and wide, a storm is on the way. It won’t make a sound, but you’ll immediately feel the wrath of the 2022 Audi RS e-tron GT when you hit it. Performance resonates from 590-horsepower (637 in Boost Mode), 612 lb-ft of torque, quattro AWD, and an adaptive air suspension. A carbon fiber roof, mirrors, rear diffuser, and front air inlets add to the magnetism of our Tango Red Metallic high-performance electric Gran Turismo.

Zero Emissions Admissions

Of course, the world is facing a global warming crisis requiring the reduction of humankind’s carbon footprint. From what we eat, such as animal factory farming, to how we travel negatively impacts the air we breathe and Mother Earth’s reactions to the deteriorating lifestyle habits. With that, every major automaker has shifted to the production of electric vehicles (EVs). Some brands are already 100% EV companies like Rivian, Tesla, and Lucid. Audi’s theme is dubbed the “Future is Electric” and plans on converting 30% of its fleet to full EVs or plug-in hybrids by 2025. By 2050 the entire company should be net CO2 neutral based on executive proclamations.

Audi e-tron Ecosystem

I’ve had the pleasure of test-driving Audi’s entire e-tron fleet and am pretty impressed. The 2022 RS e-tron GT and e-tron GT are the big boys of the family and provide supercar performance attributes in the form of an EV. My Tango Red Metallic RS handled corners with aplomb at high speeds, stopped on a dime, and accelerated like cheetahs in Masai Mara while emulating the digital sound effects of the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars. Audi drive select will keep the battery in check since the electric driving range is an EPA-estimated 232 miles for the RS. But the odometer stated 265 miles on my ride. In Efficiency mode, the vehicle will stretch out your mileage; in Dynamic mode, the RS blasts off whenever you tap the throttle. But every time you do so, conscious thinking about where and when to recharge takes precedence. The good news is that Audi will provide three years of complimentary DC fast charging through Electrify America and its 800 charging stations (3,500 individual chargers) throughout the country. In addition, Audi Care for EVs will handle service for $999 over three years. Moreover, Audi will assist owners in setting up an Electrify America Level 2 AC charger in their home.

Styling Amenities & the Year One Package

To differentiate your e-tron GT from the next, Audi decorates the sports car in nine hues and curates six interior Dinamica/Leatherette or Fine Nappa leather options. Standard 20” alloy rims pair with the GT unless you upgrade to one of the performance packages. Specifically, the RS e-tron GT is blessed with a lightweight, high-strength, carbon fiber roof and the technological Matrix-design headlights with Audi laser light are available as an intelligent upgrade.

This model I test drove for a week topped at $161,890, including the $20,350 Year One Package. At first, it may sound expensive, but your vehicle will be enhanced with over ten critical, performance-oriented and alluring features. Year One includes 21” 5-twin spoke-concave rims wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 265/35 R21 summer tires, Audi laser lights, Blacked-out logo and emblems, ceramic brakes with massive red calipers, carbon-fiber trim, carbon-fiber side sills, Fine Nappa Leather performance seats with honeycomb stitching and a massaging feature, and rear wheel steering. You also receive the enticing RS interior design package with a black cockpit, red seatbelts, and red contrasting.

Electrified Performance Attributes

The RS e-tron GT is potent in every respect. Raw energy is produced through a 93 kWh battery with active liquid cooling, dual synchronous electric motors with adjustable regenerative braking, a single-speed front transmission, and a two-speed rear transmission. Top track speed is 155 mph, and electric quattro drive with torque vectoring increases handling capabilities. The Alcantara-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel made me feel like Lewis Hamilton every time I jumped in the cockpit. It’s challenging driving without flooring it at every light. To repower your EV, Audi says 10 minutes of DC charging will restore 120 miles and 22 minutes roughly 180 miles. Keep in mind that these times are predicated on using a 270 kWh or higher charger.

EV Charging Infrastructure

There are three levels of charging: Level 1 (your home outlet), Level 2 (240v in-home installation or public), and Level 3, aka DC Fast Charging which are mostly installed at public retail locations. Level 1 is the slowest and gives you 3 to 5 miles per hour. Level 2 is the most convenient since it will majorly take place at home overnight and energizes your ride 15 to 30 miles an hour. DC is the way to go when you are traveling with a low battery. I utilized EVgo (only found 50 kWh chargers) since I could not find an Electrify America in my vicinity. Fast chargers are available from 25 kWh to 350 kW for passenger EVs. Electrify America builds 150 kWh and 350 kWh chargers and would be the network of choice if they were close to my home. Yet, Tesla has the most stable and efficient charging ecosystem and partly why they sell so many EVs.

My weeklong reservation with the e-tron was purifying, unique, and fulfilling. Though the experience came with a few hiccups due to the charging network, I am confident that expansion is on the way. Do you think you are ready for a mobility shift towards electric high-performance by way of the 2022 Audi e-tron GT? If so, the halo vehicle is currently on sale in the US and ready for configuration at audiusa.com. Pricing starts at $99,900 for the e-Tron GT and $139,900 for the RS e-Tron GT.

Tags: Automotive Rhythms, 2022 Audi RS e-tron GT, 2022 Audi e-tron GT quattro, Electric mobility, EV cars, electric performance vehicles, green cars, autoganic, electric gran Turismo, electric motors, electric quattro, Audi RS, Electric racing, electric motorsports, Mark Dahncke Audi, Audi Etron, Audi Evs, Audi electric vehicles, EV Go, Zero emissions, Tango Red Audi RS e-tron GT, Electrify America charging stations, high-performance electric grand tourer, Audi e-tron Year One Package, Goodyear Eagle F1 265/35 R21 summer tires, Kimatni Rawlins and Audi etron

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