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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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2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid Continues Its Dominance

by Randi
written by Randi

The electric and gas-powered Toyota Camry Hybrid received a facelift in 2021, including a bolder style to complement its overall competence and fuel economy. However, the top-selling 2023 Camry Hybrid remains unchanged except for a SE Nightshade edition with 19-inch bronze wheels, a black headlight, and taillight trimming.

The Toyota Camry continues its reign as the top-selling sedan in the U.S., despite pickup trucks and SUVs dominating vehicle sales. In addition, the Camry is the only sedan in the top ten list of all vehicles sold in the U.S.

Some of the Camry’s main competitors include the Honda Accord Hybrid and the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. However, its top competitors are other Toyotas, including the Prius, Corolla Hybrid, and the RAV4 Hybrid.

The redesigned Camry Hybrid, built on Toyota’s all-new global platform with the C-HR and Prius, is spacious, comfortable inside, and loaded with advanced technology and safety features.

Models/Pricing: The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid offers five types and a broader range of levels and options than many other hybrid sedans: LE ($28,355), SE ($29,890), SE Nightshade $30,890), XLE ($33,245), and XSE ($33,795).

During its redesign, the Camry interior was upgraded with more premium materials, a standard 7-inch touchscreen, and an available 9-inch display in high-end models. In addition, all Camrys are equipped with Toyota’s Entune 3.0 infotainment system and Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of active safety tech that helps protect passengers and improves control on the road.

The XLE and XSE models also come with Toyota’s audio plus system with six speakers and the 9.0-inch touchscreen, leather trim, and heated and ventilated front seats.

Power: All 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrids are equipped with a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine and a sealed 650-volt electric motor. Together they produce 208 horsepower with 149 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive.

Safety: All Camry models come standard with Toyota’s Safety Sense-2.5+, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning with steering assist. Also available are blind spot and rear cross-traffic warnings.

Fuel Economy: The 2023 Camry Hybrid LE and SE use a lithium-ion battery that averages 47 mpg. The LE can also achieve 52 mpg combined with 51 city/53 highway. The SE, XSE, and XLE get slightly lower mpg averages of 46 combined mpg, which is still competitive.

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

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2022 and 2023 Hyundai Tucson PHEV SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

The new Hyundai Tucson plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV, which rolled off the assembly line in Montgomery, Alabama, in 2022, is fully loaded, has a high-capacity battery, and improved regenerative braking that extends the driving range.

Bear in mind that the average commute for most people is 35 miles; the Tucson PHEV can go 33 miles on all-electric before the gas-powered motor kicks in. The range can be extended through regenerative braking, depending on how well you adapt your driving style to the latest EV technology.

The new compact 2022 Hyundai Tucson PHEV has more room for drivers and passengers and an impressive list of performance and safety features, making it a leader in its class. Its main competitors include the Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, and the Kia Sportage, which shares the same platform.

The Tucson is rated “top of its class” by Consumer Reports, which ranks it as “one of the most affordable, safe, and reliable SUVs.” U.S. News also ranks it at “the top of the compact SUV class for “composed ride and handling, spacious and upscale interior, user-friendly infotainment system, and a long list of driver assistance features.” I was quite impressed.

Other accolades for the 2022 Hyundai Tucson include: “winner of U.S. News 2022 Best Compact SUV for the Money’, the 2022 Best Compact SUV for Families, and the 2022 Best New Cars for Teens awards.”

Models/Price: There are only two trims for the 2023 Hyundai Tucson PHEV: The Tucson SEL PHEV ($37,050) and the Tucson Limited PHEV ($44,310 MSRP). Both models come standard with AWD and are fully loaded with high-end features and technology.

After a complete redesign of the 2022 Tucson and the introduction of the PHEV, there are only a few changes to the 2023 Tucson. Standard features now include Forward Collision Warning and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go. In addition, all models now have Highway Driving Assist, Rain-sensing Wipers, and Curve Control.

Other standard features and conveniences in the Tucson PHEV trim include a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, a 10.25-inch digital gauge display, a surround-view camera, and leather seats.

Power: The 2022 Hyundai Tucson PHEV is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine that generates 180 horsepower with 195 lb-ft of torque and a 66.9-kW motor that increases the total horsepower to 261 with 258 lb-ft of torque. Power is complemented by a six-speed automatic transmission and Hyundai’s HTRAC on-demand all-wheel-drive system.

Fuel Economy: The EPA estimates for the Hyundai Tucson PHEV rates it at 80 MPGe and 33 miles of electric-only driving. Recharging the Tucson PHEV takes about 10.6 hours on a 110-volt outlet and around 1.7 hours on a 220-volt level 2 charger.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. 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 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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2022 Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic All-Terrain

by Randi
written by Randi

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain hybrid is a wagon version of the E-Class with more room and rear-facing third-row seats. Refreshed in 2021, it has a new engine and minor additions to this year’s model.

The Mercedes E450 wagon only comes in one trim level. However, like other E-Class sedans, it comes standard with the latest luxury equipment and optional conveniences, including massaging front seats, driver assistance, and a Premium package. Additional enhancements for 2022 include automatic high beams and optional metallic paint.

Inside the cabin of the Mercedes E450 are 64 different mood-altering ambient lights, including mixed colors and dynamic motifs. In addition, the E450 has its version of Voice Control that responds to “Hey Mercedes,” which listens, learns, and executes actions.

As expected from the Mercedes E-Class, the E450 comes with the MBUX infotainment system and a 12.3-inch high-resolution display that houses navigation with real-time traffic, weather, and mobile phone connectivity.

Model/Price: Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain Hybrid starts around $68,400 MSRP.

Power: Powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, the E450 generates 362 horsepower, which races from 0 to 60 in just 4.8 seconds.

The Mercedes E450 4Matic is all-wheel drive and has an adjustable air suspension that produces a smooth ride and adapts to various road conditions. Its nine-speed automatic transmission is a perfect match for its power.

Fuel Economy: The E-Class wagon averages 22 city/28 highway mpg, according to the EPA.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest new car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. Vehicle test drives and car buying tips by 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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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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