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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 Volvo XC60 T8 Plug-in-Hybrid SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

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 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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Nissan’s Redesigned 2022 Frontier Midsize Pickup

by Randi
written by Randi

Nissan’s redesigned 2022 Frontier midsize pickup truck is the right size for hauling around the city and off-road adventures. The current model was engineered and designed for today’s pickup buyers and backed by Nissan’s 62-year experience in truck development.

As smaller pickup trucks flood the market, the new Frontier faces stiff competition from the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Colorado, and the Honda Ridgeline. However, the Frontier comes standard with a powerful six-cylinder engine. Most of the other small pickups are powered by four-cylinders, except for the Honda Ridgeline, which has a six.

Another significant advantage the Frontier has in the midsize pickup class is its off-road capabilities. Equipped with an advanced PRO- 4X off-road package, the Frontier has a locking differential, tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, off-road shocks, and skid plates.

Other off-road capable pickups in the category include the number-one selling Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro model, which offers a manual transmission, and Ford Ranger’s Tremor off-road package.

The redesigned Frontier receives some major cabin upgrades, including premium cloth and genuine leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats/steering wheel. Standard equipment includes a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with Bluetooth and WiFi hotspot, satellite radio, voice recognition audio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

The Frontier also offers a more comfortable ride which makes it ideal for moving smaller workloads and daily commuting around the city and on the highway.

Power: Powered by a 3.8-liter six-cylinder that generates 310 horsepower, the 2022 Frontier comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission

Models/Pricing:  The King Cab seats four and comes with a 6-foot-1-inch bed, while and Crew Cab seats five and has a standard 5-foot bed. The SV model offers both beds.

The Frontier comes in four trim levels including the Pro-4X Crew Cab ($37,770), Pro-X Crew Cab 4×2 ($34,770); an S model comes in four types including the S Crew Cab 4×4 ($32,640), S Crew Cab 4×2 ($29,640), S King Cab 4×4 ($31,540), and S King Cab 4×2 ($28,340).

The Frontier SV offer six styles: SV Crew Cab 4×4 Long Bed ($37,340), SV Crew Cab 4×2 Long Bed ($34,340), SV Crew Cab 4×4 ($35,440), SV Crew Cab 4×2 ($32,440), SV King Cab 4×4 ($34,240), and SV King Cab 4×2 ($31,040).

Fuel Economy: The Frontier averages 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway.

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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