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Revved-up rides

You’re probably not buying a new car right now but it’s still fun to look

Published

6 years ago

on

Acura RDX A-Spec

With all the uncertainty from the COVID-19 pandemic, is anyone even thinking about buying a new car? After all, most states have implemented stay-at-home orders. Yet for drivers who really needs a new vehicle now or in the near future, automakers have begun offering loans with zero percent financing that can stretch for several years. And depending on the region, you can buy a vehicle online from a dealership and have it delivered — clean and sanitized — to your home. For many of us, though, just talking about cars has been a welcome distraction from the coronavirus. That said, here are three revved-up rides to help keep your mind preoccupied.

ACURA RDX A-SPEC
$44,000
MPG: 22 city/28 highway
Zero-60 mph: 6.4 seconds

Completely redesigned last year, the midsize Acura RDX combines the severe angles of a Lexus NX and adds the massive, slanted roofline of an Audi A7. Think origami meets Teutonic brutalism. Yet somehow it all works, with a look that’s both showy and sporty. 

The same is true inside, with a steeply arched dash for the instrument cluster, a large pop-up infotainment screen and a V-shaped center console that’s as tapered as Chris Evan’s abs. Yes, it’s that sexy. As I slipped behind the wheel, I thought this must be what it feels like to sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet. 

The $39,000 price tag for the base-model RDX belies how much luxury is here, with standard rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, Wi-Fi hotspot, panoramic moonroof and more. You can also lock, unlock, start and stop the vehicle from your smartphone and even track the RDX if it’s stolen. The engine is ample enough, though not as zesty as more expensive competitors. But acceleration is definitely solid, as is the braking and handling. 

There’s only one trim level, with numerous extras available. I tested an RDX with the A-Spec package, which added ventilated front seats, 16-speaker premium stereo and numerous styling frills. These included jazzy red seats, special trim and bigger and wider tires. If that’s not enough, you can always add other doodads like a hands-free liftgate, head-up display and acoustic front glass for a quieter cabin. 

BMW X3 M COMPETITION
$77,000
MPG: 14 city/19 highway
Zero-60 mph: 3.3 seconds

Tired of going stir crazy? Then fantasize about a BMW X3 M Competition. The base X3 crossover already was one of the best haulers on the market. This year adds two new dynamic trim levels, including the high-performance M version. But while the M is good, the more exciting M Competition really takes my breath away. Press the ignition button, mash the accelerator and — whoosh! — this finely crafted crossover transforms into an Indy 500 racer. 

With a zero-60 time of just 3.3 seconds, the X3 M Competition is actually faster than many race cars. That’s because the 503-hp engine is the most powerful production six-cylinder that BMW has ever made. With this much va-va-vroom, fuel efficiency is bound to suffer. Luckily there’s an automatic stop/start feature to help save on gas.

Along with wicked power and handling, there’s plenty of attitude. This includes large 21-inch wheels, bright-blue calipers and a cacophony of pops and crackles emanating from the twin set of dual exhaust pipes. The bravado carries over to the cabin with deeply bolstered seats, an illuminated M logo on the headrest and a thick steering wheel with two red buttons — labeled M1 and M2 — for preselected driving modes. 

There’s also a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, along with a high-resolution touchscreen for the impressive iDrive infotainment system. BMW audio systems are now some of the best, and the 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo was a blessing during my weeklong stint with this test vehicle. Stuck at home, I couldn’t barrel down as many roads as I would have liked. But as the car sat forlornly in my driveway, at least I could snuggle into the driver’s seat and blast some music for hours.  

BMW X3 M Competition

MERCEDES GLC 300 COUPE
$50,000
MPG: 21 city/28 highway
Zero-60 mph: 5.4 seconds

When is a coupe not a coupe? When it’s a four-door crossover, as with the Mercedes GLC 300 Coupe. This spiffy hauler has a classy grille, flared fenders and sporty liftgate spoiler. Yet the dramatically sloped roof means very little headroom for tall backseat passengers. That can be a bummer for some buyers. But then, not everyone needs to ferry friends, family or co-workers to and fro. 

Plus, if you simply want to exclude certain people in your travel plans, you now have a good excuse. The GLC Coupe has been popular ever since it was introduced in 2017, thanks to the elegant ride, high-quality cabin and abundant features. Those attributes are enhanced this year with updated exterior styling, more powerful engines and a larger 10.3-inch touchscreen with a stunning, crystal-clear resolution. 

There’s also the MBUX voice-command system, which can control the phone, navigation and other functions. Don’t ask why, but it can even tell you jokes. While the GLC Coupe oozes luxury, it’s more rugged than it looks. On a trip across Virginia during a string of heavy thunderstorms, I could raise and lower the chassis and easily navigate some unexpected off-roading. It was no laughing matter, but in the CLS Coupe I felt safe and secure. 

Mercedes GLC 300 Coupe
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Autos

Hot rod heaven: Chevy Corvette, Dodge Charger

Two muscle cars strut their stuff

Published

2 weeks ago

on

January 18, 2026

By

Chevrolet Corvette

Some vehicles age quietly — but not muscle cars. 

For 2026, the Chevrolet Corvette tightens its focus, fixes one glaring flaw (the previously dowdy interior) and flaunts a futuristic design. The Dodge Charger, on the other hand, is loud and proud, daring you to ignore its presence at your peril. 

CHEVROLET CORVETTE

$73,000-$92,000

MPG: 16 city/25 highway

0 to 60 mph: 2.8 seconds

Cargo space: 13 cu. ft.

PROS: Awesome acceleration. Race-car feel. Snazzy cabin. 

CONS: No manual transmission. No rear seat. Tight storage. 

Finally, the Chevrolet Corvette feels as good inside as it looks flying past you on the freeway. That’s thanks to the classy, completely redesigned cabin. Gone is the old, polarizing wall of buttons in favor of a sleeker, three-screen cockpit. There’s a large digital gauge cluster, a wide infotainment screen angled toward the driver, and a marvy new auxiliary display. Everything is modern and a bit glitzy — but in a good way.  

Fit and finish are higher quality than before, and the controls are more intuitive. Chevy’s Performance App is now standard across trims, offering real-time data for drivers who enjoy metrics as much as momentum. And the new interior color schemes, including slick asymmetrical options, let you express yourself without screaming for attention—confidence, not obnoxious bluster. 

As for handling, the steering is quick and sure, body control is exceptional, and acceleration is blazingly fast. A mid-engine layout also delivers sublime balance. 

Three trim options, including the V8-powered Stingray, the E-Ray (also with a V8 but paired with electric all-wheel drive), and the Z06 and ZR1 variants for racing devotees. 

(Note to self: For a truly mind-blowing experience, there’s the new 1,250-horsepower ZR1X all-electric supercar that goes from 0 to 60 mph in less that 2 seconds and is priced starting at $208,000.)

Yes, the ride in any of these Corvettes can be firm. And visibility is, well, rather compromised. But this supercar is a total Dom, not a timid sub. Think Alexander Skarsgard in “Pillion,” and you get the picture. 

DODGE CHARGER

$52,000-$65,000

MPG: 16 city/26 highway

0 to 60 mph: 3.9 seconds

Cargo capacity: 22.75 cu. ft.

PROS: Choice of gas or EV power. Modern tech. Spacious cabin. 

CONS: No V8 engine (yet). Soft steering. Less-than-lithe cornering.

Everything old is new again for the Dodge Charger. The automaker initially was phasing out gas-powered models in a shift to electric vehicles but then quickly pivoted back to include gas engines after yo-yo regulatory changes this year from, well, the yo-yos in the White House. 

Powerful twin-turbo engines in the R/T and Scat Pack trims produce up to 550 horsepower. These models come standard with all-wheel drive but can be switched to rear-wheel drive for classic muscle-car antics when the mood strikes you.

At the same time, Dodge still offers the electric Charger Daytona, delivering up to 670 horsepower and ferocious straight-line acceleration. 

The Charger’s aggressive design, massive digital displays and practical hatchback layout carry over, reinforcing its ability to be both a performance diva and everyday companion. With the larger-than-expected storage space, I appreciated being able to fit a boatload of groceries in the trunk during a Costco run. 

New wheel designs, paint choices and trim variations help you visually distinguish between gas and electric Chargers. But no matter the model, each one feels decisive and deliberate on the road. Commuting in stop-and-go traffic during rush hour is fine, but this street machine excels at high-speed cruising on the freeway. 

The turbo six-cylinder engine delivers muscular torque with less drama than the old V8s, but still with plenty of urgency. The electric Daytona version is a different kind of thrill, with its instant, silent thrust that feels like it could almost launch you to the moon. 

Steering is stable but not exactly crisp, and the Charger’s weight makes it less lithe—and lively—than other muscle cars, especially when navigating tight corners. 

But that’s just fine with me. Like Bea Arthur as Dorothy in “The Golden Girls,” this no-nonsense muscle car is proud to be big, bold and brassy. 

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Autos

Exciting electrics: Hyundai Ioniq 5, Volkswagen ID.4

Why EVs still make sense

Published

1 month ago

on

December 22, 2025

By

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Electric-vehicle tax credits may have faded earlier this year, but EVs themselves are far from losing their spark. There are more charging stations than ever, battery ranges are longer and more realistic, and automakers have finally figured out that EVs don’t all need to look like geeky science projects or feel like failed beta tests. 

Just look at these two compact electrics, which are futuristic, fun and flexible enough for work or play.

HYUNDAI IONIQ 5

$37,000 to $48,000

Range: 245 to 318 miles

0 to 60 mph: 4.5 to 7.4 seconds

Cargo space: 26.3 cu. ft. 

PROS: Fast charging. Roomy cabin. Silky-smooth suspension. 

CONS: Wide turning radius. Rear wiper not on all trims. Price creep.

 After being introduced three years ago, what’s new for the latest Hyundai Ioniq 5? Mostly refinement. Charging is quicker, software is smarter and Hyundai continues to quietly listen to feedback, tweaking ride comfort and usability. Think of it as switching from messy eyeliner to a perfectly sharp wing.

Exterior styling remains one of this EV’s biggest conversation starters. Those pixel-inspired lights, crisp lines and slick hatchback-meets-crossover proportions exude refreshing confidence. There’s no trying to blend in, and that’s the point. Park this Hyundai anywhere and heads will turn. 

On the road, the Ioniq 5 prioritizes calm over chaos. Steering is light, the suspension smooths out rough pavement and acceleration feels brisk without being aggressive. Safety tech is plentiful and well-calibrated—adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, blind-spot monitoring—all working together without seeming like a nervous backseat driver. IOW, this ride is supportive, not clingy.

Inside, the user-friendly cabin shines. The flat floor and long wheelbase create a lounge-like atmosphere, with excellent legroom and airy visibility. Seats are well-bolstered and available with eco-friendly materials, and the sliding center console adds flexibility. Cargo space is generous, and the wide windshield makes city driving stress-free. Alas, the rear wiper is only available on select models. Overall, though, I appreciated how everything looks modern without feeling cold.

What makes this Hyundai special is its vibe. An EV that embraces individuality without shouting about it. 

Fun fact: The Ioniq’s ultra-fast charging can add hundreds of miles in under 20 minutes—perfect for those who hate waiting almost as much as they hate small talk on awkward first dates.

VOLKSWAGEN ID.4

$46,000 to $59,130

Range: 206 to 291 miles

0 to 60 mph: 4.4 to 7.7 seconds

Cargo space: 30.3 cu. ft. 

PROS: Sure handling. Decent range. Good storage. 

CONS: Body roll in curves. Fussy infotainment. No frunk.

The latest VW ID.4 focuses on polish. Software updates have fixed earlier frustrations, and overall drivability feels more cohesive. Less “learning curve” and more “hop in and go,” like a dependable bestie who doesn’t overthink things.

Styling-wise, this EV is intentionally inoffensive. Soft curves, friendly lighting and a familiar crossover shape make it approachable. While the ID.4 won’t turn heads like the Ioniq 5, that’s OK. It’s more akin to a classic outfit that always works—timeless, not trendy.

Driving the ID.4 is relaxed and predictable. This SUV prioritizes comfort over thrills, with a suspension tuned for daily commuting and long highway drives. Safety features are comprehensive and reassuring, including excellent lane assistance and collision-prevention systems. It’s the kind of car that quietly has your back, no drama required.

Inside, the ID.4 offers a calm, uncluttered cabin with good space for passengers and cargo alike. Rear-seat legroom is especially strong, making it a solid road-trip companion. The seats are plush, visibility is good and while the infotainment system isn’t the most intuitive, it’s improved enough to be more than tolerable.

The ID.4’s special sauce is balance. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel—it just electrifies it.

Fun fact: This is one of the most globally popular EVs, proving that sometimes being universally liked is a strength, not a personality flaw. Think, gold star gay who still surprises you.

Volkswagen ID.4
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Autos

Revving up the holidays with auto-themed gifts

Lamps, mugs, headphones, and more for everyone on your list

Published

2 months ago

on

November 23, 2025

By

Here’s how to shift your holidays into high gear.

Bentley Bottle Stopper

Pop your cork—in a good way—with a Bentley bottle stopper ($106), made of zinc alloy with chrome plating and rubber rings. The classy design is inspired by the automaker’s iconic “Flying B” mascot from 1930. 

Subaru Motorsports Counter Stool

Belly up to the bar with the Subaru Motorsports Counter Stool ($175). The 30-inch-tall metal chair—with padded vinyl cover and automaker logo—is lightweight and swivels 360 degrees. 

BMW Luxe Luggage 

You won’t have trouble spotting this chic khaki-green BMW M Boardcase ($307) at airport baggage carousels. The high-performance “M” logo is etched on the durable polycarbonate casing, as well as on the main compartment zipper and all four of the sturdy double wheels. Comes with recycled lining, along with laundry and shoe bags. 

Ford Yoga Gym Bag

The Ford Yoga Gym Bag ($15) has a wide handle and button strap to securely carry a yoga mat, as well as convenient pockets to stow water bottles and shoes. Made of black polyester, with reflective silver Ford logo. (Yoga mat not included.)

Kia Mini Lamp with Speaker/Sound

It doesn’t get much more Zen than a Kia Mini Lamp with Speaker and Sound Machine ($50). Made of bamboo, sturdy plastic and a fabric grill, the tiny wireless lamp has LED lighting with three settings. Pair with your phone to choose from eight soothing sounds: brook noise, bird chirp, forest bird, white bird, ocean wave, rainy day, wind and fireside.  

Lexus Green Pro Set

Practice makes perfect with the Lexus Green Pro Set ($257), a putting mat with “train-track markings” to help improve any golfer’s alignment. Lexus logo on the wood frame with automatic ball return. 

Lamborghini Wireless Headphones

Turn on, tune in, drop out—well, at least at the end of a hectic day—with these Lamborghini Wireless MW75 Headphones by Master & Dynamic ($901). Batteries last up to 32 hours or up to 28 hours in active noise-canceling mode. 

BMW Quatro Slim Travel Tumbler

The BMW Quatro Slim Travel Tumbler ($23) lives up to its name: sleek, smooth and scratch-resistant. Comes with leak-proof lid and non-spill design. 

Ford Vintage Mustang Ceramic Mug

Giddy-up each morning with the Ford Vintage Mustang Ceramic Mug ($29). With cool blue stripes, the 14-ounce mug features a silver handle and iconic pony emblem. 

My First Lamborghini by Clementoni

Proving it’s never too early to drive an exotic car, My First Lamborghini by Clementoni ($62) is for children ages two- to four-years old. Kids can activate the remote-control car by pressing the button on the roof or by using the remote. This Lambo certainly is less expensive than an entry-level Huracan, which starts at $250,000.  

Rolls-Royce Cameo 

For adults looking for their own pint-sized luxury ride, there’s the Rolls-Royce Cameo ($5,500). Touted as a piece of art rather than a toy, this miniature collectible is made from the same solid oak and polished aluminum used in a real Rolls. As with those cars, this one even has self-leveling wheel-center caps (which operate independently of the hubcaps so that the RR logo is always in the upright position). 

Maserati Notebook

For those of us who still love the art of writing, the Maserati MC20 Sketch Note ($11) is an elegant notebook with 48 sheets of high-quality paper. The front and back covers feature stylish sketches of the interior of a Maserati MC20 supercar and the Maserati logo. Comes with saddle-stitched binding using black thread. 

Dodge Demon Dog Collar

If your pooch is more Fluffy-kins and less the guard dog you sometimes need it to be, then there’s the Dodge Demon Seatbelt Buckle Dog Collar ($30). Made of steel and high-density polyester with a tiny seatbelt-buckle clasp, the collar is emblazoned with devilish Dodge Demon logos. 

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