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Experiencing the New 2023 Mazda CX-50 SUV

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

The Mazda CX-50 was redesigned for 2023, taking a position above the CX-5 as one of the most impressive crossovers on the market. This time, Mazda has taken its signature style to a new level with this all-new redesign, creating an SUV that turns heads wherever it goes.

I had the opportunity to test drive the CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus and found that its performance, comfort, and power exceeded my expectations.

Power:

The CX-50 has a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and a turbocharged version with 256 horsepower. A six-speed transmission is standard, along with all-wheel drive. In addition, a hybrid CX-50 is planned for 2024, which will be produced at the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama.

The sleek design and advanced driver assistance technologies make this one of Mazda’s best and most reasonably priced models yet! Whether running errands or taking a long road trip – your comfort will always be a top priority thanks to designed front seats that provide comfortable cushioning to support its sporty maneuverability.

Models/Pricing:

The CX-50 has ten trim levels, offering something for everyone. They include the Base CX-50 ($28,825), Select ($30,225), Preferred ($31,525), Preferred Plus ($33,965), Premium ($36,425), Premium Plus ($38,425), Turbo ($38,425), Turbo Premium ($41,575), Meridian Edition ($41,620) and the Turbo Premium Plus ($43,575 MSRP).

There are plenty of convenient features from the Base trim up to the top-of-line model, which takes luxury and performance up several levels.

Whichever model you choose, you will have access to Mazda’s Advanced Keyless Entry System, an 8-inch infotainment display touchscreen LCD monitor, and an advanced 6-speed SKYACTIV Drive transmission system. They all deliver powerful acceleration as well as improved fuel economy.

The Mazda CX-50 also includes the i-Activ AWD system, ensuring easy and confident maneuverability on any terrain. In addition, the CX-50 is packed with safety features such as blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and collision avoidance systems.

Fuel Economy:

The Mazda CX-50 is rated at 24 city/30 highway mpg. The turbocharged engine gets slightly less, with about 28 mpg on the 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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Redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland PHEV

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

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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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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2023 Cadillac Escalade Upgrades

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade, known for its bold style, adds more tech, design, and a new high-performance V-class. The large Escalade is one of the best luxury SUVs on the market, especially compared to its competition, which includes the Lincoln Navigator, Mercedes-Benz GLS-class, and the Jeep Grand Wagoneer.

The Big Three automakers have historically been the leaders in researching and developing new technologies. The Cadillac Escalade is the biggest benefactor of General Motors’ advancements, setting the benchmark for large luxury SUVs.

I tested the 2023 Cadillac Escalade Premium Luxury 4WD drive model. However, the biggest change for 2023 is the introduction of the new Escalade V with a supercharged 6.2-liter eight-cylinder that generates over 600 horsepower.

All 2023 Cadillac Escalades have an attractive presence on the road with modern LED lights on the rear, a large front grille, 22-inch wheels, and sharp curvy lines incorporated in the design on all Cadillacs. Overall, the 2023 Escalade continues to hold its place among the top-dollar luxury SUVs.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade also comes with upgraded materials inside, including real wood, designer fabrics, satin-finished metals, heated and ventilated leather seats with massage, more space in the second and third row, a curved OLED 16.9-inch infotainment display, and an optional AKG 36-speaker surround system.

Models/Price: The 2023 Cadillac Escalade offers six different configurations: Luxury ($82,690), Premium Luxury ($91,490), Sport ($94,490), Premium Luxury Platinum ($108,990), Sports Platinum ($108,990), and the V-Series ($152,590 MSRP).

Optional packages include the AKG Studio reference 36-speaker surround system ($4,330); performance package ($2,700); touring package ($2,550); night vision ($2,000); parking package ($710); rear entertainment system ($1,995); power-retractable assist steps ($1,750); and $625 Mahogany metallic ($625).

Power: The 2023 Cadillac Escalade is powered by a standard 6.2-liter eight-cylinder that generates 420 horsepower and an available 3.0-liter diesel that gets 277 horses. Both are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission with either rear or all-wheel-drive (AWD).

For buyers wanting more speed, the new V-Series generates a staggering 682 horsepower from a 6.2-liter eight-cylinder that races from zero to 60 in just 4.3 seconds.

An advanced technology and air suspension system provide better control and a smoother ride, especially on rough surfaces. Safety equipment includes HD surround vision cameras, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keeping, departure warnings, and more.

Fuel Economy: The Escalade RWD averages 15 city/20 highway mpg. In comparison, the AWD gets one less mpg. The performance V model is rated at 11 city/16 highway mpg. The diesel engine performs best at 21 city/27 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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2023 Hyundai Palisade Full-Size SUV Gets a FaceLift

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

This year, the famous 2023 Hyundai Palisade was facelifted outside and inside with some new convenient features and safer technologies, making it a popular eight-passenger choice for families.

For 2023, Hyundai Palisade full-size SUV has a bold new front bumper fascia with a redesigned grille, headlamps, and daytime running lights. The rear also adds a new bumper with vertical LED tail lamps and a tow hitch cover.

In addition, it received more driver-assist technologies, including Remote Smart Parking Assist and Parking Collision Avoidance Assist.

I test-drove the 2023 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy, which is more luxurious than last year and performed better on the road. In addition, interior upgrades included a new high-resolution 12.0-inch display, ambient lighting, and Ergo-designed leather massage front seats, which were very comfortable on long drives.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade also comes with new USB-C ports, a faster 15-watt wireless charging, and a digital key app that can lock, unlock, and start the vehicle. In addition, it works with the iPhone, Apple Watch, and Samsung Galaxy.

The 2023 Palisade is Hyundai’s first vehicle to offer a Wi-Fi hotspot that allows passengers to search the Internet, listen to music, or stream videos. In addition, the second and third-row seats were also redesigned for extra comfort. The second-row seats can now be reclined, and third-row passengers get heated seats.

Models/Pricing: The 2023 Hyundai offers five different models: The base SE (36,885), SEL ($39,885), the new 2023 special edition XRT ($41,885), Limited ($48,435), and the top-of-line Calligraphy ($50,835 MSRP). The new XRT has a more rugged look with 20-inch wheels and a blacked-out exterior.

Power: Except for a few improvements to the valves and chassis, the engine and transmission remain unchanged in 2023. All models come with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter six-cylinder that generates 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) is standard, and all-wheel-drive (AWD) is optional.

Fuel Economy: The EPA rates the FWD Palisade at 19 city/26 highway mpg, while the AWD averages 19 city/25 highway mpg.

Hyundai’s warranty includes five years of roadside assistance and 10-year/100,000-mile coverage for the powertrain.

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2022 and 2023 Hyundai Tucson PHEV SUV

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

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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All-Electric 2022 Audi e-Tron

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

The all-electric 2022 e-Tron, Audi’s first electric vehicle (EV), feels and drives more like a luxury SUV than an EV, offering all-wheel drive, high-speed charging, and long-range capability.

Since 2019, Audi has introduced a series of electric and plug-in hybrid e-trons in its Q-, GT-, and A-series. It has also improved the e-Tron electric technology in EV sedans, SUVs, and sports cars.

The 2022 e-tron Quattro finally reflects the brand’s EV goal, incorporating the look and latest technology that luxury buyers desire in a luxury SUV.

There are no major to the 2022 models. However, additional options and packages include a Chronos Edition that replaces the Prestige package, a Black Optic package, and an S-line exterior option. The Chronos comes with 21-inch double V-spoke wheels, adaptive cruise and lane guidance, Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, leather trim, and much more.

The five-seat e-tron Quattro I tested included Mythos Black metallic paint, the Chronos package, a trailer hitch, an e-tron beam, and a privacy trunk cover. The 2022 e-tron Quattro starts at $65,900 MSRP, and options and destination charges top out at $86,505.

According to fueleconomy.gov, the Audi e-tron will no longer qualify for a $7,500 federal income tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act, which was signed into law in August 2022. the Federal tax incentive only applies to EVs and plug-in hybrids assembled in the U.S., which means that the Audi Q5 plug-in hybrid, made here, qualifies. However, e-tron models are manufactured in Brussels, Belgium, and Changchun, China. Although they still might be eligible for state tax credits.

For a list of qualifying vehicles, visit https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IN/IN11996.

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Audi e-tron trim levels include the Premium ($67,095), Sportback Premium ($70,295), Premium Plus ($75,995), Sportback Premium Plus ($79,195), Sportback Prestige ($83,495), and Chronos Edition ($84,595).

Power: The 2022 Audi e-tron generates 355 horsepower from two electric motors and a 95-kWh lithium-ion battery with 414 lb-ft of torque. A boost mode produces 402 horses with 490 lb-ft of torque and quietly zooms from zero to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds.

Fuel Economy: The 2022 e-tron SUV averages 78 city/77 highway MPGe. It has a driving range of 222 miles on a full charge. It takes about nine hours to charge with a 240-volt power outlet, while a Level 3 fast charger takes just 30 minutes.

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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Catching Up with the 2022 Cadillac XT4 Compact SUV

by Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

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 Decisive Media
written by Decisive Media

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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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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