TOYOTA VENZA, LET’S DO IT AGAIN!!

Toyota has resurrected a crossover with some new technology to fit into a special niche. Bumper2Bumpertv spent a week with the revived Venza and offers this first drive impression.

FLYING HIGH IN THE LINCOLN AVIATOR

We have often questioned whether a domestic automaker can build a respectable luxury vehicle. With the current version of the Aviator, Bumper2Bumpertv thinks the Lincoln Motor Company may have found a way back into that segment.

THE MERCEDES C63 S A RECIPE FOR A MIX OF LUXURY AND PERFORMANCE.

The C 63S Mercedes is a mid size sedan that blends high end performance with a luxury experience in a platform that is easy to maneuver. Bumper2Bumpertv says this blend checks off nearly all of the boxes for drivers who want all of this in a manageable package.

SUBARU WRX, STAYS WITH THE BASICS OF DRIVING FOR FUN!!

The 2020 edition of the Subaru WRX may look plain from the outside but a peak inside and under the hood shows where its heart is.Bumper2Bumpertv sees the WRX as a throwback that was well ahead of its time.

FORD F250 MORE THAN JUST AN ALTERNATIVE TO AN SUV

Many drivers have switched to light duty pickup as daily drivers trucks in recent years. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at a medium duty truck, the F250 which does a lot more than fill a desire for an alternative to a sedan or SUV

WHAT FUTURE AUTOMOTIVE JOURNALISTS MAY LOOK LIKE.

Normally we post a review of a new car, technology or other news about the auto industry. But for a change we are presenting the work of college students Bumper2Bumpertv has had an opportunity to work with during the pandemic via remote learning. They are part of the Driving Force Multimedia Internship project at Howard University in Washington DC sponsored by Ford.

HONDA CIVIC TYPE R WHERE R STANDS FOR READY TO RUN!!

The Honda brand has successfully followed the lead from customers who want to get a lot more from their reliable and economical compact the Civic. Bumper2Bumpertv says that is evident if the 2020 version of the Civic Type R

LEXUS OFFERS LUXURY IN ALL SIZES

Most Luxury carmakers stake out a space where they can offer vehicles for a specific group of drivers. The Lexus brand has enough financial and engineering muscle to build passenger based platforms that fit into nearly every size category. Bumper2Bumpertv says an example is the UX250 Hybrid.

ATLAS CARRIES A HEAVY LOAD FOR VOLKSWAGEN

The Volkswagen brand is hoping its current venture in large SUV’s will resonate with drivers in the North American market. The American assembled Atlas knows this will be a heavy lift to win supporters. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at both versions of the vehicle.

2021 GENESIS G80 A FIRST DRIVE

Genesis is pushing ahead with a redesigned G80 mid size luxury sedan> Bumper2Bumpertv got a chance to check it out for 36 hours and came away impressed

LEXUS BLACK LINE EDITION ADDS ANOTHER LEVEL OF LUXURY TO THE 2021 LINEUP

The Lexus brand is building a very small group of vehicles for 2021and calling them the Black Line Edition. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at what the car maker will provide in this select group of cars and suv’s.

TOYOTA TACOMA TRD HAS A BIGGER FOOTPRINT AND MORE!!

The 2020 version of the Toyota Tacoma TRD makes no excuses for itself as a go anywhere small truck. Bumper2Bumpertv says that doesn’t mean we should take it for granted.

GENESIS G70 IS MAKING A PLACE FOR ITSELF!!

While still a relative youngster in the Luxury car segment, the Genesis brand is not a shrinking violet. Bumper2Bumpertv says that is demonstrated by what the brand is offering in the G70 Sport Sedan.

NISSAN KICKS, A SMALL SUV FACING A BIG CHALLENGE

The 2020 version of the Nissan Kicks is trying to move beyond a perception as a quirky small SUV to a vehicle that can meet a specific need. Bumper2Bumpertv notes there are some updates available in it worth noting.

THE ENCORE GX, A LITTLE SOMETHING EXTRA FROM BUICK.

Buick is trying to slice the small crossover segment a little thinner with the Encore GX. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at this premium offering that doesn’t take up too much space.

2020 TOYOTA AVALON; LIVING LARGER THAN EXPECTED.

If a buyer is considering a larger(er) sedan, choices are limited unless they step into the luxury segment. Bumper2Bumpertv reports the 2020 Toyota Avalon might surprise a driver with some hidden gems.

A TALE OF TWO CROSSOVERS

Small SUV’s or crossover vehicle are a key part of the automotive market these days. So, when one carmaker decided to fill two spaces in that segment it made sure there is a distinct difference between what its brands offer. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at how that worked out.

THE 2020 HYUNDAI SONATA, UPSCALE AND TECH SAVVY!!

Some automakers think sedans still matter and Hyundai is putting a lot of effort into the 2020 Sonata to make that point. Bumper2Bumpertv has a first look at the vehicle which is more than just striking looks

RAM 1500 4X4, STRONG ENOUGH TO WORK AND WELL DRESSED ENOUGH TO IMPRESS.

Light duty trucks often do double duty these days as both work vehicles and something to show off. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at what the RAM brand is offering in this segment.

THE TOYOTA SUPRA IS BACK WITH A GERMAN ACCENT!!

The legendary platform is back on the road. But Bumper2Bumpertv says it may not be as much of a thoroughbred that some might prefer.

2020 HONDA CIVIC Si, AN UNDERCOVER RACER!

The latest edition of the Civic Si could be called two-faced. On one hand it is a daily driver with decent road manners and on the other it can be at home on the track. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at this dual threat.

THE 4RUNNER FROM TOYOTA LEAVES NO DOUBT.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner is unashamedly a true SUV. Bumper2Bumpertv says it remain true to a heritage of a very capable off road vehicle.

MERCEDES GLC300, SMALL SIZED LUXURY WITH HIGH TECH FEATURES.

While it is officially classified as a small SUV, the Mercedes GLC300 is not lacking in high end touches or technology. Bumper2Bumpertv has a second look at what the GLC 300 brings to the party.

THE LEXUS RC, A SUBCOMPACT WITH MULTIPLE PERSONALITIES.

Is it a small luxury platform or a small performance vehicle? Those are some of the questions Bumper2Bumpertv has about the Lexus RC 350 F Sport.

HYBRID STANDOFF, WHICH IS BETTER HONDA CR-V OR TOYOTA RAV4?

With a lot of hybrid vehicles on the market Bumper2Bumpertv is looking at two models in the small SUV segment. We find both have strong points and some shortcomings. Which one do you think is better?

2020 MAZDA CX30 TRIES TO FILL A VOID IN THE LINEUP

The Mazda brand is offering the CX30 as a compact SUV/Crossover to fill a space once occupied by the CX3. Bumper2Bumpertv thinks the new model has something to offer while also having a shortcoming

THE HIGH STEPPPING 2020 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

The Toyota Highlander was originally designed as a “small” SUV based on a passenger car platform. Nowadays the Highlander is a lot more than that and Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at the current model.

PLAYING IN THE BIG LEAGUES, THE HYUNDAI PALISADE.

Can the Korean brand Hyundai deliver a viable product for drivers who want a large SUV? Their answer is the Palisade which Bumper2Bumpertv has given a good once over.

MAZDA 3 GETS STYLISH WITH A HATCHBACK!!

The 2020 edition of the Mazda 3 Hatchback changes the conversation from something boxy, which it was, to something with sleek lines. Bumper2Bumpertv see it as a viable option for drivers who don’t need to transport a lot of people.

MERCEDES GLB 250, ONE OF LIFE’S LITTLE LUXURIES

WITH MORE VERSIONS OF CROSSOVERS, MID TO SMALL SUV’S AND HATCHBACKS THAN ONE PERSON CAN REMEMBER CAN A LUXURY ENTRY STAND OUT? BUMPER2BUMPERTV SAYS MERCEDES IS TRYING VERY HARD WITH THE GLB 250

CAMARO SS CONTINUING THE LEGACY

IS THE 2020 CHEVY CAMARO SS THE REAL DEAL? BUMPER2BUMPERTV HAS A LOOK AT THE LATEST AND POSSIBLY LAST VERSION OF THE COUPE WHICH CAN STILL BURN UP THE PAVEMENT.

LEXUS VERSUS MCLAREN, WHICH ONE IS YOUR CHOICE FOR A SUPERCAR?

Normally we don’t compare cars for what we like or don’t like. But recently Bumper2Bumpertv had a chance to test drive two of the best touring roadsters in the market and loved every second of it. Now you decide which one is your favorite.

HAS CADILLAC FOUND ITS WAY BACK IN THE LUXURY SEGMENT?

It has taken a few fits and starts for Cadillac to again become a factor among luxury auto brands. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at one of the company’s recent models as well as a peak into what the future might hold?

HYUNDAI IONIQ, KEEPING UP WITH THE LEADERS IN HYBRID

Hyundai is challenging for leadership among alternative fuel vehicles . Bumper2Bumpertv reports that their lead offering in the segment is the Ioniq which comes with three different drive train options.

EXTRA POWER FOR EMERGENCIES IN YOUR CAR

Usually we feature a new vehicle or technology related to cars. But nearly every driver knows they should have a plan for roadside emergencies and Bumper2Bumpertv has found something that can be handy for multiple purposes.

2020 Chevy Bolt running on volts rather than octane

Will Chevy lead the way for GM products that will need charges more than a fill up? Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at a real car from the brand which is making a foothold in the EV market.

BMW X6 FINDS A SWEET SPOT IN HIGH END CROSSOVERS

With all of the models that BMW produces it can be a challenge figuring out what goes where. Bumper2Bumpertv has found the X6 may have found a special niche for drivers who want a combination of features, technology and performance.

THE SUBARU OUTBACK IS READY FOR THE 2020’S

While some see it as a wagon the Subaru Outback also fills the niche as an SUV very nicely. What Bumper2Bumpertv has found out is that some updates in technology and the drive train make it a vehicle worthy giving some serious consideration to.

THE BASH BROTHERS FROM DETROIT

Dodge makes no secret that they make cars with performance in their DNA and attitude in their style. Recently Bumper2Bumpertv had a chance to get familiar with a pair of siblings from the carmaker that are proud of their heritage.

THE VIRTUAL GENEVA AUTO SHOW

While the Coronavirus may have forced the cancellation of the Geneva International Auto Show. It did not stop automakers from debuting their newest vehicles or concept cars. Bumpe2Bumpertv has a round up of who premiered what and how they did it.

HANDLING THE BIG LOAD!!!

It is no surprise that trucks are among the biggest segments in the current automotive market these days. But Bumpe2Bumpertv finds that at least one truck may give even the most enthusiastic fan a moment of pause.

Chicago is now setting the tone for Auto Shows.

It is the largest show of its kind in the country and now the Chicago Auto Show is also grabbing attention as the kick off event of the year. Bumper2Bumpertv has an overview of the variety of vehicles on display there

Mid size trucks are doing the work of their big brothers

Nearly every automaker has a mid-size truck designed to be easier to handle and capable of doing some routine tasks. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at what happens when Chevrolet gets together with a diesel engine builder and an aftermarket company to outfit the Colorado.

Hyundai Venue-back to the basics!!

Hyundai first made a name for itself with small low cost cars that proved durable. Now they are offering a compact SUV, the Venue that goes back to that concept while including a lot of new technology. Bumper2Bumpertv has a first look.

Still working the segment, the Lexus ES350.

Is there still a place or interest in a luxury sport sedan? Lexus thinks there is and the latest edition of the midsize ES350 is the brand’s argument for such a vehicle. Bumper2Bumpertv has a look at what is being offered.

Where tech meets torque!!!

The merging of mobility with technology is common these days. But where does this relationship start. Bumper2Bumpertv reports one place is in Las Vegas at the Consumer Electronics Show.

Hyundai Tucson AWD

THE AUTO PAGE

By

John Heilig

• MODEL: 2020 Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD
• ENGINE: 2.4-liter 4 
• TRANSMISSION: 6-speed automatic
• HORSEPOWER/TORQUE: 181 hp/175 lb.-ft. 
• WHEELBASE: 105.1 in. 
• LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT: 176.4 x 73.8 x 65.0 in
• TIRES: P225/55R18 
• CARGO CAPACITY: 31.0/61.9 cu. ft. (rear seat backs up/down)  
• ECONOMY: 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway/19.5 mpg test  
• FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 15.0 gal. (est.) 
• CURB WEIGHT: 3,475 lbs. 
• TOWING CAPACITY: 1,500 lbs.
• COMPETITIVE CLASS: Ford Escort, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V 
• STICKER: $31,875 (includes $1,095 delivery, $330 options)
• BOTTOM LINE: The Hyundai Tucson offers the best value among the other small/medium SUVs.
  

Over the past 35-3/4 years, we have owned a few vehicles and driven nearly 2,000 for The Auto Page. So, as this career winds down, we went shopping for a reliable (the other cars in our stable are less so) vehicle that can take us back and forth from Virginia as well as the town compost center. We chose the Hyundai Tucson.

We compared the Tucson with the competition and felt it offered the best value. To get all the safety and convenience features we desired it would have cost as much as $8,000 more from the others. Besides, the warranty will probably outlive us. 

Outside, the Tucson looks like any other small SUV with a standard two-box design. We liked the way the chrome trim worked with the black body and tinted windows.

Inside, the Tucson is all Hyundai, with ergonomically thought-out placement of controls and switches. This is one of the easiest vehicles I have driven in that regard. For example, when I wanted a heated wheel the switch was right there beside the heated seat switch. 

The Tucson Limited is powered by a 181 horsepower 2.4-liter four. A 2.0-liter four is the base engine. It drives the wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission (who needs more?). Front wheel drive is standard, but we wanted all-wheel drive because of the weather in the northeast.  

Performance is smooth, although a few more horses wouldn’t hurt. The engine makes noise under stress, but basically it is quiet.Front seats are comfortable, and my wife commented on how easy it is for entry and exit. Rear seats offer very good leg room.

Modern features include a Qi wireless charger, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and USB and 12-volt outlets all around. A key selling point is the abundance of safety features that I have come to expect in vehicles these days.   

The Tucson has: forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist (that isn’t annoying), blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, electronic stability control with traction control, hill start assist, tire pressure monitoring system, automatic headlights and variable wipers. Shift into reverse and there’s the (now) standard rear view camera, but there’s also an “overhead” 360-degree view that is a big assist in parking.

Many vehicles have hands free smart lift gates, where you dance on one foot and wiggle the other under the rear bumper. No dancing with the Tucson. Just approach the tailgate with armfuls of packages and the fob in your pocket and it opens automatically. This is so convenient at Christmas time when you’re frequently loaded down.

When we decided we were going to need a new vehicle, I did the requisite research. The Hyundai Tucson offered all the safety and convenience features we wanted, at a lower price than the competition. It’s a good driver, too. 

Finally, writing these reviews has been a blast for nearly 36 years. I have been blessed by the opportunity. My thanks go out to the many manufacturers who supplied me with vehicles, to the late Bethlehem Globe-Times who published the first reviews back in 1984, and to the many outlets (more than two dozen) who also chose to use them. 

Drive safely my friends.

(c) 2020 The Auto Page Syndicate

Editors note:  John will not be totally idle going forward. This means he has more time to play golf, spoil his beloved grandchildren and  enjoy his 65 MG Midget.

A Boxy car with attitude

Can a utilitarian design and mission also be fun in a car? Bumpe2Bumperv thinks the KIA Soul GT Line answers that questions with an emphatic yes!!!

2020 Lexus LS500 AWD

THE AUTO PAGE

By

John Heilig

• MODEL: 2020 Lexus LS500 AWD 
• ENGINE: 3.5-liter twin turbo V6 
• TRANSMISSION: 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters 
• HORSEPOWER/TORQUE: 416 hp @ 6,000 rpm/442 lb.-ft. @ 1,600-4,800 rpm 
• WHEELBASE: 123.0 in. 
• LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT: 206.1 x 74.8 x 57.1 in. 
• TIRES: P248/45 R20 
• CARGO CAPACITY: 17.0 cu. ft. 
• ECONOMY: 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway/23.2 mpg test 
• FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 21.7 gal. 
• CURB WEIGHT: 4,751 lbs. 
• TOWING CAPACITY: Not recommended 
• COMPETITIVE CLASS: Mercedes-Benz S Class, Lincoln Continental, Jaguar XJ 
• STICKER: $115,375 (includes $1,025 delivery, $35,880 options)  
• BOTTOM LINE: As it has been since its inception, the Lexus LS 500 is an outstanding luxury sedan with all the options.

            When Lexus first came on the scene as Toyota’s luxury brand, there were only two models, ES (for economy sedan?) and LS (for luxury sedan?). From the start, the LS 400 built a reputation for nearly silent operation. It was almost eerie.

            The 2020 LS 500 fifth generation continues that tradition and adds to it with a $23,080 Executive Package option that kicks it up a notch by putting the LS into limousine status. It requires no stretch of the imagination to see an executive riding comfortably in the back doing deals. 

            Many years ago, when The Auto Page first hit newspapers, I had a yearly Christmas fantasy car column. The first entry was a Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn for the (then) enormous sticker of $137,000. This LS 500 is in the same class.

            Under the hood of the LS 500 is a twin turbo 3.5-liter V6 that pumps out an impressive 416 horsepower and 442 lb.-ft. of torque. Combined with a 10-speed direct shift automatic transmission, performance is smooth. Lexus claims a 0-60 time in the 4.5 seconds range. Okay, when you’re shooting for that time there is a slight exhaust roar, but that’s it.

            Front seat comfort is exquisite. Both front seats are powered - 28 ways for the driver, only 18 for the passenger - and heated and ventilated. You can also get a massage, which is convenient for older drivers who have backache issues. My only issue is that all settings except heater temperature are controlled through the 12.3-inch infotainment screen and remote touch interface that’s like an Apple laptop touch pad. I’m certain that with practice you can get the remote touch interface to do almost anything, but novices have difficulty “aiming” the pointer.

            With the Executive Package you get Kiriko glass ornamentation that is created using a technique that involves hand-cutting clear colors and delicate lines in glass. The door upholstery is also on a different level with deep pleating, while the dash decorations mimic the Lexus grille.

            When my granddaughters first got in the back seats their exclamations of wonder at the door decorations (like the front doors) and the fold-down armrest with its own infotainment screen. Then they discovered that the rear seats also recline (up to 48 degrees), are heated and ventilated, and also offer a massage option. Rear seat side support is very good.

            Additionally, the rear seats have fold-out ottomans and privacy screens on all windows. Rear and front doors appear to have floating door pulls. And yes, there are cupholders in the back as well as the front. You can raise or lower the window shades using the controller, and the driver also has the ability to raise or lower them. 

            For those who may be interested, there are dual sun-roofs for front and rear passengers. 

            Since the fifth generation LS is also 0.6 inches lower than previous models, there is an available air suspension with an access function. By unlocking the car with the smart key, access mode automatically raises the vehicle to make it easier to get in or out of it. 

            I admit I had difficulty navigating the infotainment screen with the mouse controller, but I loved just about every other feature of the LS500. I recommend taking one for a test ride at the very least.

(c) 2020 The Auto Page Syndicate