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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 Ford Mach-E All-Electric Compact SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

In its second year of production, the all-electric 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV halted production due to high demand. Introduced last year, the Mach-E is equipped with the latest technology, has an eye-catching design, and has plenty of interior space.

The Mustang Mach-E is part of Ford’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The company is investing more than $22 billion to lead the industry. The plan also includes the Ford F150 EV and transit vans.

The Mach-E adopted the iconic Mustang nameplate from its popular sports car to describe the racing attributes of its crossover EV. It combines the quickness of the Mustang with the utility of a popular-selling SUV.

2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E Interior

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Mach-E comes in five versions that include the Mach E Select ($44,995)), Premium ($49,875), California Route 1 ($53,550), GT ($63,095), and the GT Performance Edition ($66,095). Even at these prices, Ford cannot keep up with demand.

EV Power: The 2022 Mustang Mach-E offers a standard 70.0-kWh or a 91.0-kWh extended-range battery that ranges from 266 to 480 horsepower. The sportier GT performance model ups the power to 480 horses with 634 lb-ft of torque.

Behind the wheel of the Premium model, which is super quiet and fun to drive, the Mach-E races from going from zero to 60 in just 4.8 seconds. Zero-to-60-time ranges from 6.1 to 3.5 seconds, depending on the battery power.

eMPG Range: The 2022 Ford Mach-E offers several battery options that range from 290 to over 300 miles on a full charge with the extended range battery. For 2022, the battery capacity was increased to keep up with competitors. The extended range battery achieves 346 horsepower with 428 lb-ft of torque and has an EPA estimated range of 303 miles per charge with the rear-wheel drive model. The all-wheel drive version reduces the driving range to 270 miles.

The 2022 Mach-E can be recharged on a 120-volt outlet overnight, which adds about 30 miles, or up to 80 percent on a 240-volt outlet. In addition, owners can order and have a certified technician install a Ford fast charger that will recharge the battery in a few hours.

Unfortunately, because of high demand, the 2022 model is no longer available. But pre-orders for the 2023 model can be made at local dealerships.

The good news is that the 2023 Mach-E will add a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery. LFP batteries contain nickel or cobalt and are cheaper, recharge faster, and can be charged up to 100 percent without depleting battery life.

The 2023 model is expected to have an increased range, improved regenerative braking to recharge the battery on the go, and can be recharged in just 45 minutes on a fast charger.

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

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2022 Kia Sorento HybridBest new carscrossoverDecisive Media NetworkMid-size SUVNew Cars

More MPG in Kia’s 2022 Sorento Hybrid SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

The 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid SUV, introduced last year, is distinguished by its fuel economy, performance, and versatility. While the regular Sorento offers a broad range of models and seats up to seven passengers, the Sorento Hybrid is far more fuel-efficient, comes in two types, and seats six passengers.

With today’s rising gas prices, the main attraction for purchasing the 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid is its class-leading fuel efficiency, achieving 39 city/35 highway MPG. The challenge is whether Kia can produce enough to meet consumer demand.

The Kia Sorento Hybrid is a mid-size SUV with three rows (the second row has captain seats), plenty of cargo capacity, a quality interior, and it is equipped with many of the latest safety features. It also comes with a 10.5-inch touchscreen display, has a sporty design, and it’s fun to drive.

The 2022 Kia Sorento is the brand’s second-largest SUV, positioned between the larger Telluride ($33,090) and the smaller Niro ($25,985). It is also the largest hybrid SUV in Kia’s fleet.

The three-row 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid is priced more than the non-hybrid Sorento ($31,095) and less than the new Sorento Plug-in Hybrid ($44,990 MSRP). The much smaller Niro includes more choices: hybrid ($24.690), plug-in hybrid ($29,590), and EV ($39,990) models.

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid offers two trim levels: The S ($34,090) and the EX ($36,090 MSRP). The optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) adds another $1800 to the S and $2300 to the EX model.

Power: The S and EX models are powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a lithium-ion battery and an electric motor. Together they produce 227 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The Sorento Hybrid uses a six-speed automatic transmission instead of the eight-speed in the regular Sorento.

Fuel Economy: The combined EPA estimated rating for the 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid is 39 city/35 highway MPG for the FWD and 37 city/ 35 highway MPG for the AWD.

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

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Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid

The Full-Size Ford F-150 SuperCrew Hybrid Turns into a Mobile Generator

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

Ford delivered its new 2021 F-150 SuperCrew with the 3.5-liter PowerBoost Full Hybrid to me for a week so that I could test out its upgraded features and performance. However, I didn’t have any construction work to plug work tools into it, nor did I need to use it as a mobile workstation. And I wasn’t going camping to test its off-road capability or the onboard generator that can provide power to a camper. Thank God there wasn’t a blackout from a winter storm, where I could have used it to electricity my house.

No, there wasn’t any of that, but it was good to know that, for one week, I had the power to handle just about anything that came along, including the ability to drive up 624 miles, on one tank of gas, according to the EPA. In addition, the F-!50 PowerBoost can drive exclusively on electric energy, hence the term Full Hybrid.

Ford F-150 SuperCrew Mobile Office

The new 3.5-liter PowerBoost engine also increases the F-150s horsepower and towing capacity. In addition, Ford’s Pro Power comes with a standard 2.4kW electric generator with four 120-volt/20-amp plug outlets in the rear bed and inside the cabin. The Pro Power also offers an optional 7.2kW generator.

The full hybrid 2022 F-150 SuperCrew, which launched last year, speaks to Ford’s commitment to alternative fuel technology. The F-150 SuperCrew PowerBoost became the first full-size pickup truck to operate on gas and an all-electric mode and the ability to power work tools for up to 32 hours when equipped with the robust 7.2-kW onboard generator.

Ford F-150 Charging an Electric Car

Why do you need a home generator during a blackout when the Ford PowerBoost stores enough energy in the battery to power your house? The generator operates even when the vehicle is off. Then, when the battery gets low, it is intelligent enough to turn the truck on to recharge the battery. According to Ford, the PowerBoost can power a home for three to ten days.

As the top-selling vehicle in the U.S., the upgraded Ford F-150 stays ahead of the competition by introducing the PowerBoost Hybrid. It is tranquil inside and provides a smooth and powerful ride.

The redesigned 2021 F-150 SuperCrew seats five to six passengers and includes upgraded materials with a luxurious feel. It is spacious and has a fold-out table for a laptop, turning it into a mobile office. The SuperCrew also offers Ford’s over-the-air update system that keeps all the truck systems and tech functions updated.

I was not hauling a trailer that week either, but the Reverse Trailer Guidance technology with high-resolution camera overlay graphics would have told me where to turn while backing up. In addition, the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system aids in parking the trailer while automatically steering the vehicle, while a Blind Spot system detects the trailer’s blind spots.

Power: The Ford F-150 SuperCrew hybrid gets 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque from a DOHC 3.5-liter EcoBoost six-cylinder engine with twin turbos. A 47-horsepower electric motor plays a role in generating hybrid energy. Paired with a 10-speed transmission, it can tow up to 14,000 pounds.

Models /Price: The Hybrid PowerBoost system can be added to four F-150 models for $2,500 to $4,995: The base XLT SuperCrew (MSRP $42,005/$4,995 hybrid), Lariat SuperCrew ($48,750 base/$3,300 hybrid), King Ranch SuperCrew ($58,025/$2,500 hybrid), Platinum SuperCrew ($60,805/$2,500 hybrid). I tested the 2021 SuperCrew Lariat with a base price of $50,980 and $3,300 additional for the 3.5-liter PowerBoost full hybrid.

The Lariat model I tested includes a 12-inch infotainment display, leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, 18-inch wheels, active park assist, and Ford’s co-pilot.

Fuel Economy: The 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid averages 24 mpg in city and highway. It gets about four extra miles per gallon than the gasoline-powered models and outperforms all other gasoline-powered trucks in the segment.

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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How to Buy Volkswagen’s Electric ID.4 SUV

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The arrival of the Volkswagen ID.4 in 2021 introduces fun-to-drive and more style to the all-electric SUV segment. Yet, there are a few things you need to know if you want to have fun driving an adult toy to drive around the streets and not have to buy gas.

As more vehicles transition from gasoline to electric power, the first thing you need to know is how to buy an all-electric SUV that matches your needs. It’s not simply picking a vehicle from a company that receives lots of press coverage, like Tesla, Toyota, or Ford. There’s more to it than the mileage range and lowest price.

Each brand has its unique features, technology, long-term plans, charging options, types of regenerative braking, passenger room, and costs.

It seems that Volkswagen took many of those factors into account before launching the 2021 ID.4 SUV, which began the German automaker’s long-term strategy to introduce a lineup of affordable, mass-market electrified vehicles in the U.S.

The 2022 V.W. ID.4 is priced lower than many competitors, charges fast, and has a battery range of 260 miles. It is also beautiful and spacious inside, with a starting price from $39,995 to $44,495 MSRP, making it an ideal choice for families on a budget.

Models/Price: The five-seater ID.4 comes in three trim levels – Pro Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) ($39,995)/Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) ($43,695), 1st Edition RWD ($43,995), and Pro S (RWD $44,495/All-Wheel Drive (AWD) ($48,175).

Power: The base Pro, 1st Edition, and Pro S RWD versions produce 201 horsepower from a single electric motor, while the available AWD models with the dual-motor get 295 and 339 pound-feet of torque.

Electric Range: The ID.4’s 77kWh battery holds enough energy to drive 260 miles on a full charge and takes less than an hour to recharge. Depending on the type of charger, it can take 38 minutes to get up to 80% charge on a 150-kW D.C. fast charger. VW partnered with Electrify America to provide owners with home chargers and free unlimited charging at Electrify America charging stations.

Although the second electric motor uses more energy, it sends more power to the front axle and increases traction and speed, adding 107 horses and 110 pound-feet of torque. Unfortunately, it also drops the electric range on the Pro AWD down to 249 on a full charge and the Pro S to 240 MPGe.

The new Volkswagen ID.4 has a smooth, slick-looking design and unique paint colors that make it look animated. It is comfortable inside and equipped with many high-tech features, including ambient lighting, a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, partially powered adjustable front seats with heating, dual-zone automatic climate control, front/rear parking sensors, and a digital driver’s display. Other standard features include navigation, a 5.3-inch reconfigurable digital gauge display with voice recognition, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

Upgrading to the ID.4 Pro S adds leather upholstery, fully power-adjustable front seats with a massage function, a 12-inch infotainment display, a panoramic fixed glass roof, a hands-free tailgate, and 20-inch wheels.

Fuel Economy: Still called fuel economy, the EPA rates the ID.4 Pro at 107 MPGe city/91 highway, while the 1ST Edition and Pro S are rated at 104 MPGe city/89 highway. The main advantage of owning an electric vehicle is not worrying about fuel costs.

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

2021 VW ID.4 SUV

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2022 Mazda MX-30 EV
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The 2022 MX-30 SUV Begins Mazda’s EV Strategy

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

To find out how Mazda’s MX-30 is the secret to its EV strategy, I began a two-week test drive in Mazda’s first electric vehicle. It is beautifully designed, has butterfly doors, cork interior trim, and offers the latest technology. But unfortunately, it is being sold only in California this year, and only 560 are in the U.S.

However, some adjustments are needed to my driving habits and distances since it only has an electric range of 124 miles on a full charge. Therefore, changing my driving techniques and computes, as most people who average about 30 miles a day do, is no easy task.

Mazda has a good reason for producing a lightweight 35.5 kWh battery. The secret is in the charging time, which only takes about 35 minutes to charge fully. Mazda’s EV strategy includes introducing another MX-30 with a new rotary engine to double the electric range.

While many other EVs average over a 200-mile range, Mazda has been developing a new rotary generator since 2018, which will extend the electric range while driving. The rotary engine hopes to surpass regenerate braking and gas-backed plug-in-hybrids (PHEV) in charging the battery while driving.

Meanwhile, MX-30 owners who need to take longer trips can get a gasoline-powered Mazda free ten days a year. In addition, Mazda will provide $500 to install a home charging port.

Suppliers involved in the Mazda MX-30 Range Extender’s development told Nikkei that Mazda wants to double the range of the MX-30 EV to 249 miles with the assistance of the rotary engine.

The MX-30 has an electric motor that produces 144 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. The lightweight battery pack may not have the ideal range, but it could solve the problem of charging time. Therefore, adding a rotary motor that recharges the battery and extends its driving range could set an industry standard.

Fortunately, I found an EV charging station a few blocks from my home, which takes less than 40 minutes to fully charge on a fast charger and about 5 hours on a home /public charger.

While most other automakers introduced hybrids, plug-in hybrids (PHEV), and then EVs, most of their products are gasoline-powered cars, trucks, and SUVs. Mazda’s foray into environmentally friendly vehicles starts with an EV with a smaller battery while developing the technology needed to extend its range. If it succeeds, it could wind up having the fastest charging battery in the industry.

The Japanese automaker plans to unveil five new SUVs, namely Mazda CX-50, Mazda CX-60, Mazda CX-70, Mazda CX-80, and Mazda CX-90, by 2023. Except for the CX-50, all vehicles will come with a selection of electrified powertrains.

In 2023, Mazda also plans to introduce more EVs, hybrids, PHEVs. The 2022 Mazda MX-30 is a subcompact SUV with butterfly doors that starts at $33,740 MSRP. The better-equipped Premium Plus model I’m driving begins at $36,480 MSRP. Up to $7,000 in tax credits are available, depending on your location.

For more reviews on new cars, trucks, and SUVs, visit www.randolphp.sg-host.com. By Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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 "Car Buying decisions can mean Life or Death on Today's roads"
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Decisive Media Network Revamps Consumer Automotive Website

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

 

  • Car Buying decisions can mean Life or Death on Today’s roads
  • In July 1995, Decisive Media launched the first automotive magazine website in the U.S.

Washington, D.C., October 3, 2021 – Decisive Media Network announced the launch of its newly redesigned consumer automotive website www.randolphp.sg-host.com, with user-friendly content on cars, trucks, and SUVs to help visitors navigate and make informed decisions on new vehicle purchases.

Decisive Media Network continues its pioneering history. In July 1995, OnWheelsInc.com was launched and became the first automotive magazine in the United States with a website on the World Wide Web.

The new site has been revamped, making it easier for visitors to review the latest new vehicles, technology, and automotive news. The site also features Automotive Rhythms TV, auto events, auto news, vehicle test drives, and a photo gallery.

Decisive Media Network was founded with a two-fold mission to fill a void for automotive news in the multicultural market. First, the goal was to provide much-needed education and information to consumers and inform the industry about diverse automotive cultures. Additionally, it became a catalyst for increasing the number of minority media and journalists covering the automotive industry.

Originally, OnWheelsInc.com was the online version of three national print magazines: African Americans On Wheels, Latinos On Wheels, and Asian On Wheels. After the 2008 automotive crisis, On Wheels, Inc. changed its name to Decisive Media and expanded its content to other news categories to help multicultural consumers make informed decisions on a broad range of products and services.

“More than ever, car buyers need more automotive content, with the increased danger of accidents on crowded roads, information on the latest safety technology is crucial,” said Randi Payton, founder and publisher of the Decisive Media Network. “Deciding on whether to buy an older or newer model vehicle could mean the difference between life or death in a severe accident,” he pointed out.

There is much more information to learn with today’s technology before purchasing a new car, truck, or SUV, including all the latest hybrid and electric vehicle advancements available. In addition, during the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous car-buying services were launched, offering online financing, home deliveries, and 30-day

  • In July 1995, Decisive Media launched the first automotive magazine website in the U.S.
  • In July 1995, Decisive Media launched the first automotive magazine website in the U.S.
  • In July 1995, Decisive Media launched the first automotive magazine website in the U.S.
  • In July 1995, Decisive Media launched the first automotive magazine website in the U.S.

returns.

The site also offers a complimentary e-newsletter subscription and links to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

About Decisive Media Network

Decisive Media Network (DMN) www.randolphp.sg-host.com provides consumer-friendly reviews on new cars, trucks, and SUVs to help make informed decisions. Consumers can also find DMN content on partnership websites, including www.HeartandSoul.com, www.nationalblackguide.com, www.tnj.com, www.pgsuites.com, and www.AfricanAmericanGolersdigest.com.

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