Autos
Dodge Challenger, BMW 13S offer spunk, panache
Not always practical but sexy and fun, convertibles are here to stay


Dodge Challenger GT
Want the scoop on coupes and convertibles? They’re not as popular or practical as crossovers, hatchbacks or other rides built for hauling cargo and companions. But they sure are sexy. That’s why some vehicles with beaucoup doors, like the BMW below, are cleverly designed to look like two-door turn ons.
DODGE CHALLENGER GT
$35,000
Mpg: 18 city, 27 highway
Zero-60 mph: 6.3 seconds
Keeping track of the hot Dodge Challenger is, at times, a challenge. Along with major trim levels — from the base SXT to the GT, R/T, R/T 392, SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat — there are a slew of variants, like the R/T Scat Pack, R/T Shaker, SRT Hellcat Redeye, SRT Hellcat Widebody and, well, you get the picture.
All showcase the Challenger’s nostalgic muscle-car looks. This includes the old-school grille, a sweeping hood that seems to stretch two football fields and a trunk the size of Kansas. Compared to a Ford Mustang or Chevy Camaro, the Challenger is a land yacht, but in a good way.
Large 19-inch wheels, sturdy brakes and solid suspension make for smooth sailing on all kinds of roads. The GT debuted last year and is the only model with all-wheel drive, a major plus in bad weather. The 305-hp V6 is reasonably fuel efficient and plenty powerful, though it’s no V8 Hemi engine (which is available in the higher-performing and higher-priced Challenger models).
The retro cabin, with a pleasing array of simple dials and gauges, is a bit plasticky but also spacious. And there are plenty of modern features, including heated steering wheel, heated side mirrors, backup camera, interior ambient lighting and smartphone integration. All in all, the Challenger GT is a nice step up from the base model yet doesn’t break the bank.
BMW I3S
$49,000
Range: 180 miles (114 miles battery-only)
Zero-60 mph: 6.8 seconds
Alas, sexy may not be the word to describe the BMW i3 electric vehicle. But the sliced-and-diced design certainly gives it personality, somewhere between cute and quirky. The funky shape cleverly disguises two rear doors and a hatchback, which are all a blessing when loading/unloading passengers or packages.
An optional 2.4-gallon fuel tank extends the range to 180 miles, which is more than enough for most daily drivers. And the tree-hugger cabin is made from recycled and renewable materials. BMW’s latest tech and safety gear is here, with a floating infotainment screen, gear-selector knob on the steering wheel, on-street parking locator, pedestrian warning, collision alert and much more.
This year, there’s the new performance version, the i3s. It’s lower to the ground than the base model, with bigger tires for better grip and zip around curves. Along with some special exterior styling, there’s a surprise inside: the bizarro bright-blue seat belts, which are the same vibrant color as in the BMW logo.
Most impressive is the Sport mode, with quicker acceleration and tighter steering to help the i3s break away from being just another EV. It works, because this is one fast and fun ride that also happens to be eco-friendly.

BMW I3S
MERCEDES E400 4MATIC CABRIOLET
$69,000
Mpg: 20 city, 26 highway
Zero-60 mph: 5.2 seconds
The E-Class often sets the standard for midsize sedans, wagons, convertibles and coupes. The latest generation is no exception, especially with the coupe and convertible — two primo rides that share the same DNA. Yes, the coupe is a hair sexier, thanks to unbroken lines of sheetmetal flowing gracefully from front to back. But with the top down and the wind blowing in your hair, the cabriolet can’t be beat.
Available in rear-wheel or 4Matic all-wheel drive, this sensuous soft-top has 10 layers of acoustic insulation to muffle outside noise. Toodling to the beach via freeways and back-country roads is a joy, with a surprising amount of legroom for rear-seat passengers.
On hot days, sun-reflecting material keeps the seats cool. For chilly nights, the headrests blow warm air directly on your neck. Using a smartphone, you can start the car and even park it remotely. And a special windshield wiper system prevents fluid from spraying into the car with the top down. The list of other add-ons seems endless, from upgraded paint and massaging seats to an aromatherapy system, semi-autonomous driving and 64 shades of ambient lighting. But there’s a catch: such extras can boost the price to nearly $100,000.

Mercedes E400 4Matic Cabriolet
Autos
A cheeky convertible: Mercedes CLE 450
Riding the freeway of love with the top down and spirits up

“Drop the top, baby!… Drop the pedal and go!”So croons Aretha Franklin in “Freeway of Love,” her classic song about a joyride in a pink Cadillac convertible.
Those free-spirited lyrics came to mind recently each time I got behind the wheel of an equally exquisite ride: the Mercedes CLE 450.
MERCEDES CLE 450 CONVERTIBLE
$76,000
MPG: 23 city/32 highway
0 to 60 mph: 4.2 seconds
Cargo space: 9.6 cu. ft.
PROS: Dreamy design. Divine handling. Dazzling amenities.
CONS: Cramped cargo area. Kinda impractical for everyday driving.
IN A NUTSHELL: Who needs two fine open-top chariots when one fabulous convertible will do? That seems to be the thinking at Mercedes, which recently replaced two of its cabriolets—the compact C-Class and midsize E-Class—with the brand-new CLE 450.
While the wheelbase is a wee bit shorter than on the outgoing E-Class model, the CLE is longer overall than either of its two former siblings. The result: more legroom than expected, especially for anyone in the front seats. Even backseat occupants may feel comfy (OK, perhaps not Brittney Griner or Carl Nassib, but still…).
Alas, trunk space is slightly scrunched, thanks to the folding fabric roof. But that power-operated top—available in black, gray or red—can be raised and lowered with the car traveling at speeds up to 37 mph. And the triple-layer acoustic material provides excellent insulation and greatly reduces outside noise. In fact, I often had to remind myself this was the CLE convertible and not the hardtop coupe.
There’s also a wind-deflector apparatus that, when activated, elevates airflow off the windshield and reduces backflow with a rear mesh screen. For added pampering, an AIRSCARF system lives up to its name, sending warm air onto the necks of front-seat passengers. (Don’t tell my husband, but I felt like an invisible suitor was wooing me, seductively blowing kisses my way.)
Convertibles usually are not as structurally rigid as their hardtop counterparts. But here again, Mercedes works its magic: The chassis—made of aluminum and high-strength steel—is so incredibly stiff that there’s absolutely no shake and shimmy. This solid body structure also provides for a safe vehicle shell.
Under the hood, there’s a spirited 375-hp turbo engine, augmented by grippy all-wheel drive and a graceful nine-speed automatic transmission. As a crazed soccer fan, I think it’s not too much of a stretch to say the driving experience combines the speed, sass and savvy of a star athlete (think Megan Rapinoe).
Inside, there are plenty of premium styling cues, as well a glitzy dashboard with 12.3-inch digital cluster and 11.9-inch multimedia touchscreen. Yes, the CLE borrows heavily from the C-Class and E-Class. But somehow—perhaps because of the low ground clearance and multi-contour seats (which include heating, ventilation and massage functions)—this cabin feels and functions more like a true cockpit.
Along with all the driver-assistance features, there are 11 airbags (including rear head airbags), pop-up roll bars and a drowsy-driver alert monitor. In case of an impending crash, an accident-preparedness system immediately tightens seatbelts, adjusts seats and closes windows.
I could go on about all the amenities, including a 17-speaker Burmester surround-sound stereo, the 64-color ambient-lighting system and more. But why bother? This is a Mercedes, after all, so you expect such babying.
What wasn’t expected? How much I keep missing this beauty after my weeklong test drive ended. It’s not as if soft-tops are practical, like minivans and SUVs. And two-door rides—coupes or cabrios—now account for less than 4% of all new-vehicle sales.
But Aretha would have understood. Classy convertibles, like her pink Caddy and the Mercedes CLE 450, represent open-air freedom and the promise of adventure.
“So jump in, it ain’t no sin. Take a ride in my machine.”
Autos
Sporty sedans: BMW 530i xDrive, Mercedes AMG CLA 3
Tariffs are here and the result is financial chaos

It’s official: Tariffs are here, and the result is financial chaos.
So, what to do when purchasing a new vehicle? If you need one in the not-so-distant future, buy sooner (like yesterday) rather than later. Expect prices to rise quickly, as inventory dwindles, demand soars, and automaker incentives evaporate. Of course, if a new ride isn’t a priority for at least a year or three, then hold off until the dust settles.
But for those of you looking for new wheels now, I recently drove two sport sedans that were a pleasant reprieve from the usual plethora of pickups, minivans, and SUVs.
BMW 530i xDRIVE
$63,000
MPG: 28 city/35 highway
0 to 60 mph: 5.5 seconds
Cargo space: 18.4 cu. ft.
PROS: Rakish looks. Race-car vibe. Rock-star amenities.
CONS: Rad-but-quirky infotainment system. Rich price.
IN A NUTSHELL: Classic good looks, from the iconic grille and swept-back headlights to chiseled side panels and a tasteful tush. For a gearhead like me, the BMW 530i xDrive — completely redesigned last year — is as rapturous as Michelangelo’s David. Everything here is in proportion, from the design to the drivetrain, which — along with a gutsy 255-hp turbo and all-wheel drive — helps deliver a divine experience behind the wheel. Even better, my test car came equipped with the heavenly M-Sport Package: 21-inch wheels, athletic suspension, and assorted styling upgrades.
A tech-laden cabin is outfitted with a sparkly 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. With the windshield head-up display and a slew of knobs and toggle switches in the center console and on the steering wheel, I wondered if this is how it feels to pilot the Space Shuttle. There is even a back-lit interaction bar with touch-sensitive controls to adjust vent direction and other climate control settings.
All this gadgetry takes some getting used to, but the overall effect is dazzling. While a 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo comes standard, I was jammin’ to the 16-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio. Of course, such options add up quickly (on my test car, the extras totaled $13,000).
Just how fun is this car? In my favorite episode of “Hacks,” sassy Jean Smart drives a rockin’ Rolls Royce Wraith. Trust me, this four-door BMW is every bit the badass as that $300,000 super coupe.
MERCEDES AMG CLA 35

$58,000
MPG: 22 city/29 highway
0 to 60 mph: 4.8 seconds
Cargo space: 11.6 cu. ft.
PROS: Slick styling. Spiffy cabin. Sublime seats.
CONS: Smallish trunk. So-so rear headroom and legroom.
IN A NUTSHELL: Need a smaller sedan that’s just as marvy as the midsize BMW i530? Look no further than the compact Mercedes CLA-Class, which is 14 inches shorter. That’s a benefit when jockeying for parking or navigating rush hour.
Another plus: This is Mercedes’s least expensive sedan, available in three trim levels. All come with the same potent turbo but in varying power levels. The base model starts at $46,000, but I tested the first of two high-performance versions: the AMG CLA 35, which costs $12,000 more. You can open your wallet even further to snag the $67,000 AMG CLA 45.
But why bother? The AMG CLA 35 is plenty quick — faster than the BMW i530 — and boasts sport-tuned brakes, deft handling and a gritty-sounding exhaust system. The laundry list of standard features includes all-wheel drive, automated parking, gobs of the latest safety gizmos and even something called “safe-exit assist,” which prevents passengers from opening a door into traffic or speeding cyclists.
The interior is pure Mercedes, with top-notch materials, customizable ambient lighting and Burmester surround-sound audio. The overall layout—sleek and modern, but with elegant stitching in the seats and on the door panels and dashboard—is comfortable and user-friendly. Digital displays and touchscreens are similar to what’s in the BMW i530, just smaller.
Size matters, of course, which is why this vehicle’s shorter length can be a blessing but also a curse, especially when trying to squeeze passengers with longer legs into the backseats. And the dramatically sloped roofline, attractive from the outside, limits the amount of rear headroom and cargo space. Thank the automotive gods for panoramic sunroofs, which—at least for anyone in the front seats—makes this cabin feel surprisingly spacious.

Looking to roll into something new? With all the buzz about 25% tariffs, it’s the perfect time to grab a new ride before prices soar—especially for electric vehicles, which may soon wave goodbye to those oh-so-attractive federal tax credits. Whether you are an eco-conscious commuter or just need a chariot for weekend getaways, these three green machines offer some serious swagger.
FORD MUSTANG MACH-E PREMIUM
$42,000
Range: 250-300 miles (depending on battery pack)
0 to 60 mph: 5.2 seconds
Cargo space: 29.7 cu. ft.
PROS: Zippy. Sporty feel. Ample battery range.
CONS: Bit bumpy over potholes. Limited seat adjustments.
IN A NUTSHELL: With sleek curves and a design that’s hotter than a drag queen’s heels on the runway, the Ford Mustang Mach-E blends both power and flair. The exterior colors are vibrant and unapologetically bold, just like the rainbow after a storm. Three trim levels, but opt for the spiffy Premium version—which was what I drove and is a nice step up from the $37,000 base model. It also costs a lot less than the gutsy GT, which tops $55,000.
Inside, the Mach-E is like driving a chic lounge on wheels. Toggling through the 15.5-inch touchscreen feels like navigating through the latest TikTok trends. A panoramic glass roof and faux-leather upholstery come standard, but assorted add-ons—standard features with the Premium trim—include hands-free power liftgate, multicolor ambient lighting and 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo. There’s also plenty of space for all the essentials: totes, coats and besties.
And let’s not forget about battery range—there’s enough juice here to take you through a whole day of driving without needing a recharge. With Ford’s fast-charging network, it’s easy to be powered up quicker than you can say, “Ride ‘em, cowboy!” Well, almost.
How popular is this EV, which looks more like a hot hatchback than an SUV? Last year, sales spiked 27% and outsold the iconic gas-powered Mustang. So yes, the Mach-E Premium isn’t just any vehicle—it’s an experience that’s, well, electric.
KIA SPORTAGE PHEV X-LINE PRESTIGE
$44,000
MPGe: 84 city/highway combined
0 to 60 mph: 7.1 seconds
Cargo space: 39.6 cu. ft.
PROS: Comfy. Comely cabin. Oodles of passenger room.
CONS: Clunky dual-use dashboard controls. Bit noisy interior.
IN A NUTSHELL: Next up: the 2025 Kia Sportage PHEV X-Line Prestige, a compact plug-in hybrid that combines style, strength and versatility into one dazzling package. If the Mach-E Premium is a glam EV star, I found the Sportage PHEV to be an SUV showstopper.
Under the hood, power comes from an electric motor and gas-powered backup, so you get the best of both worlds—whether cruising on green energy or unleashing your inner diva. The all-electric range is almost 35 miles, and all-wheel drive is standard—which helps keep things steady, no matter the weather.
Inside, it’s pure comfort. While there are two hybrid trim levels, even the base-model—the X-Line—is fairly loaded: LED headlights/taillights, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, power liftgate, nav system, wireless charging pad, smartphone integration and more.
For my weeklong test vehicle, I was spoiled with the X-Line Prestige, which is full of a ridiculous number of amenities and safety gear. Let’s just say the clever cabin design would make the folks at Ferrari blush. Oh, and thanks to the pristine acoustics from the Harmon Kardon audio, I could have sworn the cast of “Hamilton” was right there with me belting out each tune. “Blow Us All Away,” indeed.
MERCEDES AMG C 63 S E
$87,000
MPGe: 40 city/highway combined
0 to 60 mph: 3.3 seconds
Cargo space: 11.6 cu. ft.
PROS: Snazzy. Lightning fast. Haute handling.
CONS: Pricey. Quirky steering-wheel controls.
IN A NUTSHELL: Jonesing for an exciting, eco-friendly sedan? Then look no further than the Mercedes AMG C 63 S E plug-in hybrid, which gets the adrenaline pumping each time you slip behind the wheel.
Under the hood, there’s a staggering 671 horsepower—enough to leave competitors in the dust and make them more than a little jealous. This AMG-tuned Mercedes—the quickest C-Class ever—blasts from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, faster than your heart rate when seeing your next crush at a circuit party. And that’s not even the best part—the shapely contours of this sportster are as chiseled as Luke Evans’ check bones.
Inside, the cockpit is like a designer outfit made for a fab night out—high-quality material everywhere, as well as branded sport seats with top-tier upholstery and stitching. One downside: the steering-wheel controls, which look tasteful but can be a tad too touch-sensitive at times.
Still, this elegant ride exudes more than enough bells and whistles to maintain a constant state of euphoria.
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