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What’s Different About the 2023 Audi S5 Sportback?

by Randi
written by Randi

The Audi S5 Sportback enters 2023 with a few changes that differentiate it from last year’s model. The S5 Sportback four-door hatchback, a stretched and sporty version of the Audi S5 Coupe, features a stylish design, luxurious interior, strong performance, and excellent handling.

This year, the sporty appearance of the Sportback is enhanced with a Black Optic Plus package, including black spoiler exhaust tips. In addition, Audi added the Bang & Olufsen audio system with 3D sound to the Premium Plus model. It was previously standard on the top-of-line Prestige trim. Other additions include adaptive cruise control with the optional Convenience package, red stitching, and RS carbon inlays in the black interior.

Although the S5 Sportback and Coupe share the same 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive, the S5 delivers a more robust performance and a sportier ride.

Power: All S5 Sportback models are powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder that generates 349 horsepower with 369 lb-ft of torque. The driving modes in the S5 Sportback include Comfort, Dynamic, and Auto. A torque-vectoring rear differential and adaptive dampers in the Dynamic and Auto modes provide more get-up-and-go and road grip on winding roads and exit ramps.

Models/Price: The 2023 Audi S5 Sportback offers three trim levels: The Premium ($56,895), Premium Plus ($60,895), and Prestige ($65,295).

I tested a turbo blue 2022 S5 Sportback with a base price of $54,900 MSRP. It included the following option packages: Prestige ($8,000), S Sport ($2,500), Black Optic ($1,400), Dynamic Steering ($2,150), Fine Nappa leather seats ($1,000), and Audi S Beam ($275). After adding a destination charge of $1,045, the total price came to $70,670 MSRP.

Fuel Economy: The S5 Sportback averages 21 city/30 highway mpg, according to the EPA.

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

 

 

 

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Audi A8L 55 TFSI Quattro – Supersized Luxury Sedan

by Randi
written by Randi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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Catching Up with the 2022 Cadillac XT4 Compact SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI Quattro Midsize SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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2022 Volkswagen Golf R 2.0T Returns with a Bang

by Randi
written by Randi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

by Randi
written by Randi

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

Zero Emissions Admissions

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

Audi e-tron Ecosystem

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

Styling Amenities & the Year One Package

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

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

Electrified Performance Attributes

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

EV Charging Infrastructure

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

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

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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 Mini Cooper & 2023 Mini Special Editions

by Randi
written by Randi

The Mini Cooper may look small on the outside, but it’s big on active safety and performance driving. Refreshed for 2022, the Mini Cooper gets new design changes to its front grille and bumpers. In addition, it has a larger 8.8 touchscreen infotainment display, satellite radio, new colors, and safety features.

Out of the 200 or more new vehicles I test-drive each year, the Mini Cooper S stands out as one of my favorites because of its ability to maneuver through traffic and Urban streets. It has a go-cart feel that gives me a sense of control and the confidence to avoid the many road hazards and other drivers.

Due to its smaller size and racing character, the Mini was featured in numerous classic movies like The Italian Job, Mr. Bean, The Bourne Identity, Austin Powers in Goldmember, and many others.

The 2022 Mini Cooper line-up offers two- and four-door, a convertible, and an electric Mini Cooper SE model. I got into the 2022 Mini Cooper S Hardtop two-door with the Signature package for a week, which came with many luxury features and six-color ambient lighting that brightened up the interior.

The Cooper S, powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder twin-turbo, generates 189 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. It has three different driving modes, including Sport for maximum exhilaration, Mid Mode for everyday driving, and Green to regulate fuel efficiency.

All 2022 Mini Cooper models come with upgraded active safety technology like lane-departure warning, enhanced adaptive cruise control with full-stop braking

Power: The base Cooper comes with a three-cylinder turbo that produces 134-horsepower. A four-cylinder turbo that gets 189 horsepower powers the Cooper S. The top-of-line John Cooper Works (JCW) model has a supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that generates 228 horsepower.

Transmission options include a six-speed manual, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, or an eight-speed automatic. All models are front-wheel drive.

Models/Pricing: The base two-door Mini Cooper starts at ($23,750. The four-door version is $1,000 more. The Mini Cooper S Hardtop in the Classic trim starts around $26,900 and goes up to $30,900 and $34,900 for the Signature and Iconic models. The Cooper S Convertible in Classic form begins around $31,900 MSRP. The price goes up to $35,900 for the Signature Edition and $39,400 for the Iconic.

Fuel Economy: The 2022 Mini Cooper S two-door hardtop averaged an EPA rating of 28 city/39 highway mpg.

2023 Mini Special Edition

2023 Mini Special Edition

To celebrate its 20th year in the U.S., Mini recently announced the launch of three Special-Edition Coopers, called Resolute, Untamed and Untold. The 2023 Cooper, Clubman, and Countryman models can be custom ordered with bolder designs, with brass and bronze trimming.

The Cooper hardtop and convertible offer the Resolute with Rebel Green and Pepper White paint. The convertible comes with a black cloth top. In addition, the Cooper SE electric can be ordered in Special Edition.

The Countryman and Clubman offer other unique colors, designs, and features. Depending on your location, ordering time may average about three months to receive a customized Special Edition model.

Production begins in March 2022, and sales will start on the East Coast in April and on the West coast about one month later.

Pricing for the Resolute Edition Mini Cooper starts at $36,750 for the Hardtop and $41,250 for the convertible. The Untold Edition Clubman starts at $42,500, and the Untamed Edition Countryman starts at $42,750.

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

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2022 Genesis G70 Sport Earns a Spot in the Luxury Performance Class

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

The 2022 Genesis G70 Sport Prestige, a recent entry into the luxury sports sedan class, quickly earned a reputation for value, performance, and reliability. The new G70 competes with major brands like the BMW 4-Series, Mercedes C-Class, Audi A5, and the Cadillac ATS. However, it offers many of the same first-class luxury features at a much lower price.

2022 Genesis G70 Interior

This year’s model gets interior upgrades, a larger infotainment display, and a new front and rear design. The larger 10.3-inch touchscreen display includes such functions as navigation with cloud-based data, over-the-air updates, 360-degree cameras, Lexicon surround sound audio with 15-speakers, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto capability.

Inside, the G70 includes modern cabin conveniences, technology, premium Nappa leather with diamond quilt patterns, ventilated front, and heated sports seats built for the driving enthusiast. Unfortunately, the rear seats have less legroom like most sports sedans.

Models/Price: The 2022 Genesis G70 comes in six different types and price ranges: Standard 2.0T ($38,570), Prestige 2.0T ($42,570), Standard 3.3T ($43,145), Sport Advanced 3.3T ($47,445), Sport Prestige 3.3T ($51,445), and Launch Edition 3.3T ($53,545).

Power: Engine power is the main difference between the trim levels. The base G70 2.0T comes with a 2.-0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 252 horsepower. It is matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive. Upgrading to the optional all-wheel-drive adds another $2,000 to the price tag.

I test drove the exhilarating 2022 G70 3.3T Sports Prestige model that came with a twin-turbo 3.3-liter six-cylinder that generated 365 horses at 376 lb-ft of torque. It was smooth and powerful, racing from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

G70 drivers can select different modes to fit their driving style and road situations. They include Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport plus, and Custom. In addition, for quick acceleration from a stop, drivers can turn on the Launch control system, which prevents wheel spin during faster takeoffs.

Fuel Economy: The Genesis G70 2.0-liter four-cylinder averages 22 city/30 highway mpg, according to EPA estimates. The twin-turbo 3.0T six-cylinder averages about 29 mpg combined.

Go to www.randolphp.sg-host.com 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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