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2024 Mercedes GLE 450 4MATIC – Exploring its Luxurious Enhancements

by Randi
written by Randi

The upgraded 2024 Mercedes GLE 450 4MATIC epitomizes luxury and innovation, combining style, thrilling performance, and cutting-edge technology that redefines the driving experience.

A 2024 Mercedes GLE 450 4MATIC test drive is an experience like no other. From the moment I got behind the wheel, I was captivated by the power and refinement of this SUV.

Although the sophisticated design of the 2024 GLE 450 4MATIC commands attention with its sleek lines, bold grille, and signature LED lighting, the real magic happens when you step inside. The elegantly crafted interior envelops you in luxury, boasting premium materials, exquisite details, and many advanced features.

The 2024 Mercedes GLE 450 4MATIC takes luxury to a whole new level, whereby every aspect of this SUV has been meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort and opulence. After settling into the plush leather seats, you will notice the attention to detail that sets this vehicle apart.

Throughout my week of test-driving the GLE 450, I had the opportunity to explore the various features and options, from its performance to its intuitive infotainment system to the luxurious interior appointments; each aspect of the SUV is designed to provide the ultimate driving experience.

In addition, it has a wide range of features, including ambient lighting, that allow you to create the perfect mood for your drive. The cabin is exceptionally spacious, providing ample legroom for both front and rear occupants. The seats are not only comfortable and have massaging for the driver and passenger, but they also offer multiple adjustments to ensure the perfect driving position.

But the luxury doesn’t stop there. The GLE 450 4MATIC also has a state-of-the-art Burmester surround sound system, delivering an immersive audio experience that feels like a concert. The infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly, with a large touchscreen display and smartphone integration for seamless connectivity.

Power: Under the hood of the GLE 450 4MATIC sits a powerful 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo engine with a mild hybrid that delivers an exhilarating performance, producing an impressive 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 9G-Tronic 9-speed automatic transmission and races from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds.

The powerful engine and advanced all-wheel drive system produced optimal handling and performance in all driving conditions. The SUV’s agility and responsiveness make it a joy to drive, whether I was navigating through city streets or cruising around the beltway.

Models/Price: The GLE 450 4MATIC starts around $69,500 MSRP but can quickly reach $100k with options and advanced features, including AMG Sport packages.

Optional Packages: Mercedes-Benz offers a range of packages and individual options that allow you to customize your SUV to your liking.

One of the notable options is the Premium Package, which includes features like a head-up display, a surround-view camera system, and a 360-degree parking assist. These additions make parking and maneuvering the GLE 450 4MATIC a breeze, providing added convenience and peace of mind.

If you’re a tech enthusiast, you can opt for the AMG Interior Package for $3,400, which includes features like sport interior appointments, sport front seats with Nappa leather, and sport steering wheel.

For those who must have performance, the AMG Line Exterior Package will transform the GLE into an aggressive and dynamic SUV. This package includes sporty exterior styling elements, 20-inch AMG twin 5-spoke wheels, larger alloy wheels, and a sport-tuned suspension.

Safety: This SUV has advanced safety features, including a Pre-Safe system that detects potential collisions and takes preventive measures to protect you and your passengers. It can automatically tighten the seatbelts, adjust the front head restraints, and even close the windows and sunroof to create a protective cocoon in an imminent crash.

The GLE 450 4MATIC also features an array of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring. These systems work together to keep you safe on the road, providing an extra set of eyes and helping to prevent accidents.

While the cost of owning a 2024 Mercedes GLE 450 4MATIC may be higher than that of other SUVs in its class, its luxury, performance, and technology justifies the premium price.

Fuel Economy: The Mercedes GLE 450 4MATIC averages. 19 city/26 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 Electric Mercedes EQS Elevates the Luxury EV Class

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

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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Rediscovering the Eclectic Energy of Madrid, Spain in the Dynamic 2023 Range Rover Sport

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

Welcome to the artistic landscapes, vintage tapas cuisine, cultural energy, and trendy fashion of Madrid, the Spanish capital known for its constellation of renaissance and contemporary art, elegant boulevards, and expansive royal landmarks. Whether you are visiting the historic city with family, friends, or a spouse, make sure to do so with keys in hand to an all-new 2023 Range Rover Sport. Likewise, my memorable time here was constituted by a global test drive experience of the newfangled British SUV while seeking out passionate activities to fulfill my adventurous spirit.

Embarking from Virginia, the journey transitioned from Washington Dulles International Airport to Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport through a direct 6.5-hour business class flight on United Airlines. After landing in the morning, please make your way into Centro Madrid in the back seat of the New Range Rover Sport luxury chariot and its plush cabin. The mobile lounge will softly sound you to sleep for a 45-minute nap before arriving at The Madrid EDITION, your innovatively-designed hotel accommodations during the European vacation. Before checking in, take a quick walking tour to enjoy the lively scenes and local energy to increase blood flow after the long flight. Next, seek a café for tea, fruit, and pastries while admiring Madrid’s sunny blue skies, eclectic neighborhoods, and historic buildings. Afterward, your beautifully-appointed apartment-styled suite will be ready to refresh, rest, and regroup.

Wake up to the vivacious echos of Spanish conversations and laughter, which will entice you to join the fanfare as you walk through one of the city’s most famous sites, Puerta de Sol, a busy and scenic square in the heart of the Spanish capital. Shopping is omnipresent, as well as restaurants, pubs, and lounges as you prepare for the next day of exploration. Of course the nightlife is active almost every evening, therefore be sure to conserve energy. Next, head to Casa de Valencia to satisfy your soul with the symbolic and authentic Valencian rice dish paella. Oh wow, you will eat until the sun rises if given a chance!

After a deep sleep, wake up revitalized for your drive to the countryside in the 2023 Range Rover Sport First Edition P530 V8, the lynchpin of four powertrain choices for the stately SUV. But first, hit the state-of-the-art gym for an immersive physical workout since it features every piece of equipment required to complete rejuvenation. Next up is drive time. Land Rover is proud of its dynamic British aesthetics and design philosophies thanks to the genius of Chief Creative Officer Gerry McGovern, who embodied the new Sport with intelligent controls, technological aggression, modish materials, and sustainable Ultrafabrics. En route to Soto de Mozanaque in Alcobendas, Madrid, my drive partner and I chose a Firenze Red Range Rover Sport First Edition glorified by a contrasting black roof and imperial 23” 10-spoke Gloss Black rims. Tucked in 285/45 R23 Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires, the larger co-engineered rubber keeps the vehicle grounded and fills up the wheel wells nicely for greater definition. The A-pillar, window frames, grille, badges, rear diffuser, and tailgate spoiler are also blacked out.

The SUV is enthusiastically agile, powerful, and ultra-quiet inside and out until you floor it as the seductive growl emanating from the quad pipes takes precedence. With a 4.4-liter V8 twin-turbo engine and 523-horsepower, 4.3-second 0-to-60 mph acceleration is immediately at your disposal from every gear of the 8-speed automatic transmission. Moreover, the picturesque roads outside the city were dignified by the First Edition’s All-Wheel Steering, Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, Dynamic Launch Mode, Dynamic Air Suspension, Dynamics Response Pro, and an Electric Active Differential. Essentially, it felt like the Range Rover Sport was piloting itself.

Upon arrival to the majestic lands and countryside retreat of Soto de Mozanaque, owned by the Duke of Alburuqrque D. Juan Miguel Osorio Bertrán de Lis., we relaxed, inhaled the purified rural air, and ate a delectable vegano lunch. Visions of freeness came to mind while admiring the postcard panoramas of the garden and manicured lawn. With roots dating back to 1731, the wedding and corporate event space was originally built as a pleasure palace and hunting lodge. Its Soto Mozanaque golf course is equally lobbying to become a Rider Cup location. While here, media guests could reveal the exalted interior of the Range Rover Sport First Edition, which features reductive design pieces, a 29-speaker 1,430-watt Meridian Signature audio system, 22-way adjustable and massaging seats, forged carbon fiber trim, and a middle console cooler. Advanced tech is provided by a Cabin Air Purification Pro (CAPP), the dramatically improved 13.1” in-house engineered Pivi Pro Infotainment system, 3D Surround Camera, a ClearSight rearview mirror, and 60 Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) updates. SOTA should alleviate some of the previous Land Rover quality issues and save owners from visiting a dealership. CAPP minimizes odors, bacteria, and allergens such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus utilizing PM2.5 filtration and nanoe X technology.

Once a few hours of meditation passed, our next leg directed us towards Madrid’s famed Golden Triangle of Art, such as the renowned Museo Del Prado (Prado Museum), Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (Reina Sofía National Art Centre), and Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza (Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum). My focus was Prado since it’s regarded as one of the best in the world for original paintings. The museum director set up a private tour for us to witness the magical illustrations of Francisco José de Goya, the highly-regarded Spanish romantic and prolific printmaker. Another collector’s item on display is the Adoration of the Magi by Hans Memling. Painted around 1479, Prado Museum acquired the oil on panel triptych in 1847. My time here was full of cultural expressions through these pristine art pieces. As well, the Prado Museum’s restoration lab highlights and corrects original works dating from 1881 when Picasso was born.

After a long and fascinating day it was time to return to the white-themed décor of The Madrid EDITION for a tranquil spa treatment, decompression in my fabulous suite, and socializing in the urbane lobby before venturing to dinner at Restaurante Amazonico. This Amazon-themed establishment was buzzing with vitality from the spirited hosts, upbeat DJ, and delicious Asian, Mediterranean, and Brazilian dishes. Our small group had a wonderful evening that flew by quickly due to the vibrant atmosphere. I believe I spent more time dancing in my seat than I did eating. And yes, I patiently awaited another night of beauty sleep in my quarters. The following day, rise to a wonderful Spanish breakfast before a morning walk to integrate with locals as they hustle to work. Then pull up a table at any of the hundreds of cafes at your disposal to people watch.

For the remainder of my stay, I focused on inner city happenings while cruising the Madrid streets and heading an hour North of Madrid to off-road around the grounds of Hotel Caserío Aldeallana in a 2023 Range Rover Sport Dynamic SE P400. The boutique hacienda features hundreds of acres, a courtyard, a chapel, and a historical 5-bedroom home to go along with the quaint guest rooms for those looking for weekend getaways with Mother Nature. I didn’t visit the property overnight, but I went for lunch and to witness the all-terrain capabilities of the Range Rover Sport. The plug-in hybrid features a 3-liter V6 engine with 434-horsepower and an electric motor good for 48 EPA-estimated electric miles. A full electric Range Rover is coming in 2024.

“The exceptional New Range Rover Sport sets new standards as the ultimate sporting luxury SUV, building on seventeen years of unique customer appeal,” said Thierry Bolloré, Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar Land Rover. “It is the latest embodiment of our vision to create the world’s most desirable modern luxury vehicles, effortlessly blending new levels of sustainability with the signature qualities that have made Range Rover Sport so popular.”

The PHEV derivative — riding on road tires — had no qualms traversing through deep trenches, around boulders, up steep hills, and descending as the SUV crept down slopes without the need for the driver to brake. We also demonstrated the capabilities of the new Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control and All-Wheel Steering with 7.3-degrees of rear turning to showcase the SUV’s nimbleness. Vivid cameras show actual views so you can position the Rover properly during specific maneuvers and Adaptive Dynamics and Terrain Response 2 adjust the vehicle to various road surfaces and conditions depending on its needs. Finally, after soiling the Rover with dirt and mud it was time to return to the city with Sport mode engaged to manipulate the ZF transmission utilizing the paddle shifters.

We headed to the Mercado de San Miguel back in town for various delicacies. Spanish gastronomy is presented in the historic building housing the food market through 20 stalls delivering tastes from all over Spain from Galicia to the Basque Country. Before leaving Madrid I similarly visited a theatre show, passed through one of an array of local parks, enthusiastically shopped including an outing to timepiece retailer Antigua Relojeria SA, and celebrated American Football wins at Sports Pub Madrid.

Starting at $83,000 in the US, the 2023 Range Rover Sport presents its loyal following with sophisticated luxury, electrifying power, focused refinement, and seamless technology. And what better way to nomadically explore the beauty of Madrid, Spain than with Britain’s most refined next-level SUV? It’s quite fitting for all of your exploratory endeavors. Therefore, build the newest member of your family at https://www.landroverusa.com/vehicles/new-range-rover-sport/index.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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2022 Volvo XC60 T8 Plug-in-Hybrid SUV

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

The redesigned 2022 Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge jumped ahead of the pack with an extended plug-in hybrid (PHEV) supercharged engine and intelligent technology. Sometimes called a compact crossover by some and a midsize SUV by others, it fits between Volvo’s compact XC40 and the three-row midsize XC90 SUVs.

The 2022 XC60 T8 Recharge eAWD is an exceptional four-cylinder luxury SUV with a modern exterior design and plush interior. But don’t just take my word for it. Read the reviews or test drive one for yourself!

First introduced in 2018, the Volvo XC60 Plug-in hybrid enters its fifth generation. However, this time around, Volvo learns from the past. It incorporates the best in Scandinavian design to achieve superior comfort and a safety suite that continues Volvo’s tradition of crash avoidance and passenger protection. As a result, the XC60 is rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the EPA.

The evolution of the popular XC60 PHEV is part of the Swedish carmaker’s goal to produce 50 percent battery-electric vehicles by 2025 and, by 2030, be all-electric.

I test-drove the redesigned 2022 Volvo XC60 T8 eAWD PHEV for one week, which convinced me that it is one of the best in luxury PHEV SUVs. It has more power and a much longer all-electric range than the previous model. The performance was smooth and powerful, and the interior was comfortable and peaceful.

Upgrades to the 2022 model include a new Android infotainment system with Google services that include Google Assist, Google Maps, and the Play store to download your favorite apps. Drivers can also log in to their own Google or other accounts to access their preferences, including personalized help and contacts.

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Volvo XC60 T8 eAWD PHEV comes in four different versions: The T8 Inscription Expression ($54,250), the T8 R-Design ($60,400), the T8 Inscription Plug-in ($61,750), and the T8 Polestar Engineered Plug-in hybrid ($70,000 MSRP).

The top-of-line T8 Polestar Engineered trim gets its name from the Swedish racing team Polestar. In 2017, Polestar was separated from Volvo into an all-electric luxury vehicle company.

Power: All models are powered by a supercharged 2.0-liter Inline four-cylinder plug-in hybrid and two electric motors that generate 455 horsepower. They are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and are all-wheel-drive vehicles.

The electric power in the 2022 XC60 has almost doubled from 87 to 143 horsepower, which increases its all-electric range from 18 to 35 miles.

The T8 represents Volvo’s hybrid twin-engine technology which is part of the company’s Recharge lineup. Volvo’s twin-engine hybrid technology prioritizes the all-electric range over the gasoline-powered engine.

Volvo’s Hybrid Technology

Fuel Economy: Despite the increase in horsepower, the redesigned Volvo XC60 T8 eAWD has a better gas and all-electric range. Volvo increased battery capacity in the XC60 PHEV from 9.1 to 14.9 kWh, which improved its EPA rating to 28 city/28 highway MPG, and 63 MPGe, averaging 35 all-electric miles.

The larger battery also qualifies for a higher tax credit of $7500 from $5419 for the smaller battery.

The hybrid system in the XC60 eAWD is even better at recharging itself while driving. A one-pedal system allows the vehicle to slow and regenerate electricity whenever the driver lifts off the brakes. The feature increases electric power and reduces the need to plug the car in.

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 Jaguar F-PaceBest new carsDecisive Media NetworkNew CarsRandi Payton

The Classy and Powerful 2022 Jaguar F-Pace

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

The 2022 Jaguar F-Pace is a mid-size luxury SUV with premium features and efficient performance. It’s the largest SUV in the Jaguar lineup. It’s bigger than the smaller E-Pace and more affordable than the all-electric I-Pace SUV.

The five-passenger F-Pace was refreshed last year and enters 2022 with few changes. In addition to its great looks, the F-Pace is powerful, fuel-efficient, and offers a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Jaguar F-Pace distinguishes itself from many other luxury SUVs and seems to be in a class of its own. The quality of the sheet metal is superior to many of its rivals in its class. About 80 percent of the F-Paced is made with aluminum, reducing weight and strengthening its body structure.

Although it competes with other mid-size luxury SUVs like Mercedes-Benz GLE, Porsche Cayenne, and BMW X5, it maintains Jaguar’s motoring heritage. I test drove the 2022 Jaguar F-Pace R-Dynamic S model, which was roomy, practical, and fun to drive.

Models/Price: The 2022 Jaguar F-Pace comes in four different configurations: P250 ($52,050), P250 S ($55,150), P340 S ($60,750), and the P400 R-Dynamic S ($66,650 MSRP).

Power: The 2022 Jaguar F-Pace offers three engine options: the base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder six-cylinder that generates 246 horsepower, a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder that produces 335 horsepower, and a supercharged six that gets 395 horses. All models are all-wheel drive and have an eight-speed automatic transmission tuned for sporty performance.

Fuel Economy: The EPA rates the F-Pace’s four-cylinder at 22 city/27 highway mpg. The six-cylinder averages 20 city/27 highway mpg.

All F-Pace models have standard collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

They also include a standard 11.4-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, controls for the Meridian stereo system with 14 speakers, and optional built-in navigation.

To overcome past perceptions of maintenance problems, Jaguar offers the best coverage in the segment, including extended complimentary scheduled maintenance and a powertrain warranty for five years or 60,0000 miles.

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

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2022 Lexus NX 450 Plugin Hybrid Extends Compact Luxury SUV EV Range

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

Hot off the assembly line, the new 2022 Lexus NX 450+ hybrid joins the NX family of luxury SUVs. With a price tag of $55,560 and a $7,500 federal tax credit, the NX 450h has a “best in class” all-electric range of 36 miles.

The plugin hybrid electric NX signifies a crucial step for Lexus toward electrification as it plans to launch more battery-powered plugins and hybrids.

If your computes do not exceed 36 miles, you can avoid the high cost of gasoline by recharging it whenever you’re at home or at a public charging station. You can also enjoy up to 36 miles of quiet EV driving before the gasoline engine kicks in.

The all-new Lexus NX 450h is a compact luxury plugin crossover built on the same platform as Toyota’s RAV4. The NX 450h and RAV4 hybrid share the same 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four and plugin hybrid electric motors. As a result, they leave competitors in the dust on the electric range.

The Lexus NX 450h trim comes loaded with high tech and luxury features, including the Lexus multimedia interface with an optional 14-inch touchscreen display, over the air updates, wireless charging, Wi-Fi, “Hey Lexus” virtual assistance, cloud navigation, and an ambient lighting system with 64 different colors.

Standard features include a power moonroof, LED tail- and headlamps, paddle shifters, dual-zone climate control with air filters, and the Lexus Safety System that packages all the latest safety features to keep you safe on the road.

Models/Pricing: The Lexus NX model range includes: The Lexus NX 250 ($39,425), NX 350h ($42,625), NX 350 ($43,025), NX 350 F Sport ($48,125), NX 450h+ ($57,225), and NX 450h+ Sport ($58,475).

Power/Charging: The Lexus NX 450 offers four different engine options: gasoline and hybrid-powered engines. The NX 250 base model has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 275 horsepower, while the NX 350 generates 275 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.4-liter. Both models have an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is optional on the NX 250 and standard on the NX 350 version.

The hybrid models include the NX 350h, which generates 230 horsepower from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors, and the top-of-line NX 450h+ plugin that gets 302 horsepower. AWD is standard on both models.

The plugin hybrid takes about four and a half hours to charge on a 240V 3.3-kW onboard charger and about two and a half hours with the optional 6.6-kW onboard charger and plugged into a 220-volt outlet.

I experienced the 2022 Lexus NX 450+ Sport model with an adaptive suspension system that produced a firm and agile ride on various road conditions. It eagerly attacked sharp curves and bumpy conditions.

Fuel/Electric: The EPA estimates that the NX 450h can average a combined 84 MPGe for city/highway on gas and electric, with 36 combined MPG on fuel. It averages about $1,200 for annual fuel costs.

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A Preview of the 2022 Range Rover: New Levels of Emotional Engagement  

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins, Automotive Rhythms

The opulent and mechanically-savvy Range Rover (RR) is the consummate SUV for connoisseurs of the finer things in life, from travel to housing to automotive. Over the past 50 years, Land Rover has asserted its dominance in the US marketplace while appeasing the minds and souls of its loyal consumer base. Spend a few moments in the neighborhood of Hollywood Hills, for example, and you will see the omnipresent vehicle dominate every block. A Range Rover is not just a means of driving pleasure, but a representation and symbolism of your achievements which should always be celebrated.

To introduce the 2022 Range Rover luxury SUV, Land Rover held an exclusive gathering at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Hollywood, CA where executives, including Chief Creative Officer Gerry McGovern, presented the 5th generation model to the media, enthusiasts, and lifestyle influencers. Fans will be happy to hear about the addition of a three-row, 7-passenger variant as well as the opulent SV Serenity LWB (Long Wheelbase) edition that feels Queen and Kingly when seated in the rear. In 2024, a pure-electric Range Rover will add to the current 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged stalwart V8 engine distributing 523-horsepower and 553 lb.-ft. of torque. Dynamic Launch provides a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds.

“The New Range Rover is a vehicle with a peerless character, from the impeccable restraint of its exterior to the flawless tranquil sanctuary of its cabin,” stated Prof Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, Jaguar Land Rover. “Informed by creative intellect and a desire for perfection, it doesn’t follow fashion or trend, but by a modernist design philosophy, combined with over 50 years of evolution, it is quite simply the most desirable Range Rover ever created.”

The 5th generation Range Rover is ripe with refinement and presents sophisticated engineering innovation and aspirational design techniques both externally and inside the exquisite cabin. Moreover, the RR is the best-selling luxury vehicle model over $100,000. However, the British SUV has also been problematic from a quality control standpoint, so hopefully, the reinvention addresses the concerns of prior generations. Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) updates for the 70 electronic modules could be the solution, but only time will tell. If so, technical supremacy from Land Rover will prove to be worthy at this inflection point of creative significance.

During the business presentation, Land Rover stated that one of the goals is to connect with consumers on a desirable level and delve into their consciousness to understand focal points of decision-making. Do I desire it? Does it do what it is supposed to do? Is it reflective? To ascertain objectives were met, a key differentiator for Land Rover was introduced under the designation “modernism.” This equates to margins free from excess and limitations. The formula provides a clean and reductive design flow. The vehicle now presents flush extremities such as the door handles and a decrease in lines for a cleaner flow. Additionally, its outline is more aerodynamic and resembles an electric vehicle with a futuristic interpretation of the traditional Range Rover.

Other highlights include vertical taillamps hidden in Gloss Black when not in use and light up as Vivid Red LEDs when operational. Digital LED headlights can blank out reflections while focusing on 16 objects simultaneously. Unique hues and two-tone front-to-rear contrasting colorways (SV) will make your vehicle pop and stand out from the crowd. As well, the body architecture is up to 50% stiffer thanks to MLA-Flex technology.

We all know that luxury SUV owners rarely take their precious gems off-road, but it’s a tradition for Land Rover’s fleet, including the New Range Rover. With Terrain Response 2 and six driving modes, the RR can still cruise through water and rise 5.7” over standard ride height through the all-new Electric Air Suspension with Bilstein monotube dampers. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and standard All-Wheel Steering provide optimum grip and a turning radius comparable to compact vehicles. Lastly, a Dynamic Response Pro and pre-emptive suspension and eHorizon Navigation data analyze the road ahead and prepare the SUV to respond accordingly.

Open up the Power-Assisted Doors for a warm presentation of intelligence, purity, and relaxing ambiances. Unique materials and premium textiles feature smooth ceramics like the gear shifter, intricate mosaic marquetry, lustrous plated metals, soft near-aniline leather, as well as sustainable non-leather Ultrafabrics and Kvadra wool-blend. A new 13.1″ curved, floating touchscreen with haptic feedback and Pivi Pro Infotainment take center stage with 90% of all functions just two touches away. Previously, it was utter confusion trying to navigate through the menus. Additional conveniences come in the form of a built-in Amazon Alexa system with instinctual verbal commands for music, navigation, smart home devices, etc., 1,600-watt Meridian Signature Sound System, Next-generation Active Noise Cancellation technology, intuitive climate control, lit multifunctional steering wheel controls, 11.4” rear touchscreens, 14 power and data points for connection, and WiFi hotspot for eight devices.

With the wheelbase increased by 3” legroom also has been improved. Land Rover added tailgate seating for the rear, but the setup is pretty disappointing since it’s nothing more than simple pads. In addition to the standard wheelbase, the RR comes in three LWB seating configurations, including the normal 5-seat variation, a 4-seat SV Signature Suite configuration, and the three-row 7-seater, which will compete with the Cadillac Escalade and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. But I find the proportions too bulky and the model’s disposition entering the scene a bit too late. BMW attempted a three-row SUV with the X7, and it still hasn’t caught on in popularity.

Handcrafted by Special Vehicle Operations, the specifically curated SV Serenity and SV Intrepid design themes amplify an already highly desirable vehicle. Priced from $104,000 in the US, the New Range Rover is available to order now. Expect deliveries to begin in spring 2022.

Tags: Automotive Rhythms, New Range Rover, 2022 Range Rover, Luxury SUVs, Range Rover Leadership Summit, Luxury, SUVs, Luxury SUV, Kimatni Rawlins, urban automotive

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