Vehicles Archives - Travelgirl

Meet the Subaru Forester Wilderness: a Rugged, Cool Family SUV

travelgirlinc — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 18:38:01 +0000

Over the years parents have fought the notion that they are not cool just because they drive a station wagon or an SUV. Well, Subaru’s Forester Wilderness will once and for all dispel those notions. This is a family car that can not only handle kids, dogs and groceries but the great outdoors. If that doesn’t spell cool, then we don’t know what does!
   The Wildness, which made its debut this year, starts at $33,520 and is a perfect family car. It isn’t a gas guzzler (25 miles per gallon combined with 3.8 gallons per 100 miles), is roomy, handles well and has lots of standard features. In 2020 rear-seat reminders became standard. And, parents will love the StarTex water-repellent upholstery for those juicy box spills. It is the brand’s most rugged and trail-capable vehicle but perfect for the burbs.
   In terms of comfort, The Wilderness is roomier than most of its competitors with 40.2 inches of headroom in the front; 37.6 inches in the back. You can stretch your legs out with 43.3 inches in the front; 39.4 inches in the back. Cargo space is also generous with 107.6 cubic feet of passenger volume and 26.9 cubic feet in cargo volume. Lower the rear seat and the combined space equals 69.1 cubic feet.
   Of course the Wilderness has all the bells and whistles that make Subaru the darling of families such as brake override system and safety pedal system, steering responsive LED headlights and 60/40 split fold-down rear setback with reclining function and tilt/telescopic steering wheel with Bluetooth and audio switches.
   But it’s the outdoor features that separates the Wilderness from its competitors and, frankly, the others in the Forester family. The raised suspension with 9.2 inches of ground clearance and standard front skid plates make the intown ride similar to floating on air while in the wilderness it can clear water, rocks and branches with ease.
   The X-MODE with Hill Descent Control gives even the most skittish driver a sense of security while going off road, challenging the terrain or driving in raging snow storms. The system features driver-selectable Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes to fully activate the vehicles systems for maximum traction. Another great feature is 180-degree front-view monitor that again provides the needed confidence booster knowing that you have a clear vision of what’s ahead. In addition, the 17-inch matte-black finish alloy wheels and Yokohama GEOLANDAR give it an extra boost of an aggressive coolness while also providing impressive traction.
   Like the other Forresters, the Wilderness is powered by a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER^® engine teamed with a Lineartronic^® CVT and Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The direct-injection engine produces 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque.
   The Forrester Wilderness is a welcome combination of Suburu’s well-known penchant for SUV capability, car-like ride and handling while adding extras that make it a perfect for those driving off-road or in bad weather. Few have this dynamic combination, which makes it a perfect vehicle for cool parents who want a safe family car with a little bit of a bad boy on the side.

www.subaru.com

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Infiniti QX55 AWD: Luxury Crossover with Attitude & Style

travelgirlinc — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 14:38:08 +0000

We love luxury — especially luxury that is reasonably priced — and that ’s one reason why the Infiniti QX 55 Sensory AWD may be the perfect car!
   With a starting price at $57,000 the QX 55 Sensory AWD delivers on all fronts — smooth, tight ride, fashionable looks, lots of technology and perks, and a comfortable interior that every time you slip into the seats you can’t help having a smile of contentment that you’ve made it — but don’t need to flaunt it.
   Yes, The QX is a subtle car until you get in and give it a drive. Then it shines! The eye-catching crossover with a hint of a sport coupe is not as boxy as other models and features eye-catching digital piano key taillights and has a double-arch grille that is origami-inspired. It is eye-catching, but admittedly it does require a look or two to truly appreciate it. Form is certainly first and foremost — even to the point of lowering the license plate down to the bumper to not spoiling the look.
   It also boosts such features as Cube design LED headlines with auto leveler, Adoptive Front Lighting System and a moonroof with power open/close/tilt.
   The nod to luxury and performance is felt in the interior as well. The cabin features an unusual asymmetrical design that is a fluid motion, bold statement. We loved the red perforated semi-aniline leather seats and the steely black trim is-making that is not only stunning but cool and edgy.
   Interior perks include tri-zone automatic temperature control system LATCH System for kids, predictive Forward Collision Warning, Direct Adaptive Steering, ProPILOT ASSIST with Head-Up Display (our favorite), Bose Performance Series 16 Speakers Premium Audio System and Remote Engine Start.
   Even with its sleek design, the QX55 offers lots of inside room. The driver gets about 39.9 inches of headroom and about the same in legroom. The backseat is roomy as well with about 38.7 inches of legroom and 36.9 inches of head room with the moonroof. If you don’t have a moonroof, another three inches or so are added.
   In terms of lugging stuff around, it offers 26.9 cubic feet of space if the second row is up; 54.1 inches with the row down.
   This all-wheel drive vehicle offers 268 horsepower and with the MacPherson strut with coil springs over shock absorber, stabilizer bar you can go over bumps and potholes at the speed limit and barely even notice. You get about 22 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon combined with highway.
   Nissan always offers value, and with the QX Sensory AWD, you get value, style, great features and a smile knowing you have a car worthy of you.

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BMW M440i has it all

travelgirlinc — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:27:31 +0000

There are few absolutes in this world, but the 2022 BMW M440i is one of them. It is absolutely a fantastic car. No ifs, ands or buts.
   It has it all, does it all and makes the experience magnificent. Coming in at $56,700, the M440i feels, looks and drives like a much more expensive car. In fact, we had to look twice at the price before we believed it. This sleek coupe has a new grill that initially looks a bit off but the look grows on you.
   The car just oozes elegance. The leather surfaces are supple, warm and welcoming, but unlike some luxury vehicles, this coupe does not sacrifice function over form. There are door panels with lots of space, including for a cup holder and another under the armrest for purses, wallets and small bags. To make the ride more comfortable, there is multi-zone Climate Control including micro-filter and automatic air recirculation as well as automatic dimming interior rear view mirror and driver’s side exterior mirror. While the back seats were decent size for adults, extra space is provided with a 40/20/40 split fold-down through-load rear seats.
   The fun was driving this car. With a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder, 24-valve 382-horsepower engine that goes from 0 to 60 in 3.7 seconds. Even those who have a light foot on the gas pedal will take it up a notch and test the engine. The engine wins! The ride is smooth, precise and floats on the road like a flying carpet. Bumps, pot holes and windy roads are nothing to this vehicle. It wins every time.
   This car has it all with lots of standard equipment ranging from variable sport steering, Dynamic Stability Control, M Sport Suspension, LED headlights and front and rear Head Protection System. It gets 28 miles per gallon city/highway.

To say we’re a fan is an understatement and we weren’t alone. We had several people admire the car, including a valet at a fancy hotel. He said that, while he parks upscales cars for a living, this BMW is the one he would buy. Quite a compliment and we would agree.
bmwusa.com

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Kia’s Carnival SX Prestige brings prestige and value

travelgirlinc — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 21:27:46 +0000

In a world where it is easy to get jaded, it’s nice once in a while to have a shock to your system — a pleasant shock, that is. And, that’s exactly what happened when we stepped into the driver’s seat of the 2022 Kia Carnival SX Prestige.
Why a surprise? Well, for starters, we don’t like to think of ourselves as SUV drivers. Even in our soccer mom phase, we didn’t drive an SUV. Plus, they look big and bulky and usually the ride is a slow, uneven one that doesn’t handle well on the highway nor maneuvers around pot holes easily.
   Wrong! Carnival SX Prestige is divine! First off, the styling is a knockout. In fact, at first glance it looked more like an SUV than a minivan with a stylized new front and trim body. This vehicle as an edge that borders on being cool.
   The inside was a dream — all three rows. The front seats were large, comfortable and even opulent with bucket seats in the front and back with beautiful leather interior and cool chrome trim with diamond designs worthy of a New York City loft.
The SX Prestige feels and looks upscale. The seats are large and the 12.3-inch screen gives you all the information you need — and more. We were thrilled with the second row that featured powered captain’s chairs with arm rests and two large televisions. For sleepy kids, the relaxation mode puts the seats in full recline mode and the power foot rests raise up to make the nap even more comfortable.
The family drama of long car rides is made easier and more reassuring to parents by two cool features. The passenger view with night vision allows parent to check on passengers in the two and third rows with ease, even in the night, and the two-way intercom systems allows the front row to communicate with passengers in the other two rows clearly and without distraction, amplifying voices through the speaker system.
The Slide-Flex seating for eight passengers can be refigured in multiple ways, including a sliding second row center seat that, when in the forward most position, lets the front passenger easy access to those in the back. It also turns into a table, perfect for eating. The third row seats fold into the floor, allowing for lots of cargo room. In some models (not the SX Prestige) the second row seats fold down as well.
   The 3.5 liter gas direct injection V6 Engine with 8-speed automatic transmission handled the road like a pro. We felt at home the second we started the engine and thoroughly enjoyed every ride. It maneuver easily around curves, had quick highway acceleration and we didn’t worry once backing out of parking spaces.
The SX Prestige gets 22 miles per gallon combined. The MSP was $46,100 and the one we drove was an additional $495, bring it up to $47,770. Honestly, this SUV is loaded with standard equipment found in the most luxurious cars and it’s worth every cent — and more. kia.com

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Hyundai Venue Denim is like a great pair of jeans

travelgirlinc — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 19:22:06 +0000

Who doesn’t love denim? And now, Hyundai gives you another reason to love denim with the Hyundai Venue Denim edition complete with the interior and exterior dressed in the brand’s denim blue color throughout the SUV. The seats are denim but with decorative geometric stitching worthy of jeans. It looks designer, which is rare, considering its price point of $23,380.
   This SUV ticks off a lot of boxes, again, at such a reasonable cost. It brings a lot to the table — sort of like a grandmother cooking all your favorite dishes. You get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an eight-inch color touchscreen with navigation touchscreen, keyless entry and starting, lane keeping assist, heated outside mirrors, power sunroof, heated front seats, LED headlights, automatic emergency braking and blind spot warnings.
   The interior was plenty roomy with a 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback and duo-stage cargo storage.
   The Denim is on the smaller size with a wheelbase of 99.2 inches and 159.1 inches in length. We loved the contrasting white roof and the power tilt-and-slide sunroof — again luxuries not usually found in the low $20,000s.
   The Venue Denim is a zippy type of car that, again, has the driving comfort feel worthy of a pair of well-worn jeans. It hugs the road, goes smoothly over potholes and is easy to maneuver in the parking lot. We also got a lot of messages from the control center telling us we were too near a car or the back door wasn’t shut tightly. We appreciated the input but the voice was a bit jarring. However, we can certainly attest to its performance capabilities as we drove more than 60 miles through highways that were under construction and called for quickly crossing over to different lanes as the DOT mandated. The car and its trusty navigation made what was going to be a bit of a scary drive into one that was pleasant, trustworthy and — dare we say — fun?
Another benefit is its fuel economy with a 31 miles per gallon combined and 33 on the highways. The 121-horsepower engine gets the job done with efficiency and, as we noted, plenty of power in its tank.
Hyundai calls the Venue an “urban compact SUV,” which not only fits the bill but also fills a great need for people who need a car that can easily move around the city while providing the space (passenger and cargo) that an SUV provides. Like its namesake, it can go anywhere, fit right in and look and feel right.
www.hyundaisua.com

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Hyundai’s Santa Cruz Limited AWD: A Sport Adventure Vehicle

Mary Welch — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 17:15:55 +0000

Is it a truck or a car? Like the mythical centaur, which was half man, half horse, a first glance at Hyundai’s Santa Cruz looks like it’s two separate vehicles joined in the middle. But don’t be fooled, the 2022 Santa Cruz Limited AWD is all truck. But it is decidedly smaller than its rivals, which gives it several advantages. Its one-size-fits-all crew cab and short-bed body are perfect for hauling things, towing things and driving around town while also easily maneuvering parking lots and suburban roads.
It’s a functional pick-up that is able to go from the city to the country with ease — and a sense of style. Yes, it’s a bit shorter than most midsize or full-size trucks but it brings enough towing, hauling and off-roading capabilities for most folks. It fits into a niche that Hyundai may have discovered. It’s a truck for those who want a truck but don’t need a truck. And, the ride, thanks to its car-like construction, is a lot more comfortable.
Hyundai dubs it a true “Sport Adventure Vehicle,” and we can go along with that. It has a sophisticated design, a powerful engine and open-bed flexibility. Let’s be honest. Sometimes we’re carrying gear and equipment that is better suited for an open bed than a typical SUV. We discovered that after a particularly successful shopping spree at the Container Store when our shelves wouldn’t have fit into the back of an SUV, especially with the seats up. No problem with the Santa Cruz.
The Santa Cruz has a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder powertrain that brings about 191 horsepower, but there is also an upgraded turbocharged engine that produces 281 horsepower thanks to a 2.5-liter four cylinder engine. It was developed with a focus on enhance driving dynamics and responsiveness that works well in urban settings as well as needed agility in off-road terrain.
Luckily for those days when you just want a comfortable ride, the Santa Cruz delivers the best of Hyundai with a 10-inch infotainment screen, lots of in-cabin storage and ambient lighting. The Limited, the most expensive version, featured leather seats, a heated steering wheel, a moonroof and a front-seat experience that was a delightful (and comfortable) blend of a car and the gravitas of a truck. It was the first time we used Remote Engine Start where we cooled down the interior before entering. Perfect for hot or freezing days.
The Limited AWD gets a combined 22 miles per gallon on a 17.7 gallon fuel tank. While the SE trim starts at around $23,9000, the Santa Cruz goes all the way up to $39,720 for the Limited.
It’s interesting. The Sport Adventure Vehicle is a unique concept and similar to the Three Bears, it’s not too big, not too small. It is, in fact, just right.
www.hyundaiusa.com

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Subaru Legacy: A Sedan that has it all

Mary Welch — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 16:35:20 +0000

There are so many Subaru Outbacks and Foresters populating car pool lanes and soccer parking lots that it’s easy to forget that Subaru also offers sedans, and the Subaru Legacy is a mighty competitor in the sedan segment.
   Subaru is known as a safe car; it’s become the de facto family vehicle. The the same reasons why Subaru’s SUVs are popular with families, are the same reasons why the Legacy should be popular for those wanting a stylish, safe vehicle that is reliable — and fun to drive.
Depending on the trim selected, the Legacy’s price can range from $22,895 and goes all the way to $36,145 for the Legacy Touring XT, which is similar to the $34,445 turbo-charged Legacy Limited XT but with a 180-degree front view monitor and a Sierra Tan Nappa leather upholstery. It’s the only vehicle in its segment to feature all-wheel drive as standard equipment. We drove the Limited XT and it was a delight; it truly represented the best of Subaru in terms of safety features, technology and style.
   The car is a looker, sleek with LED fog lights and welcoming lighting. It just gives a warm feeling when soft lights illuminate the door handles, the navigation systems and other little nooks and crannies — you really feel as if the car is saying “Hello, friend. Let’s go have fun.”
   And, fun will be had. We were cruising down the interstate when our car fanatic 28-year-old turned and said “This car is smooth.” It is thanks to its 2.4L direct injection 260 horsepower turbocharged DOHC with 16-valve boxer engine, and four-wheel independent suspension. The highway is your friend and zipping around street corners makes the trip to the grocery store even more fun.
   Aiding in the ride’s enjoyment is more legroom and seats that were well sculptured. We thoroughly enjoyed the manual thigh extension in the driver’s seat, a plus for taller drivers as well as those who need to stretch their bad knees out during a drive. Our car had a lot of luxury extras including leather seats and steering wheel and dual zone automatic climate control. One of the new fantastic features is a tablet-style 11.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen, the brand’s largest and most advanced system yet. The integrated center information display brings on-screen controls for audio, HVAC and vehicle settings as well as smartphone integration. Like a smartphone, the app icons can be moved around so that what you want the most is right at your fingertips.
   But as we noted, the drive is what it’s all about and the Legacy’s structure is stiffer and the strengthened suspension and lower center of gravity makes the sedan’s steering more responsive and provides for a smoother and quieter ride. Crash protection received a big boot as the new body absorbed more than 40 percent more energy in a crash.
   Many have written off the sedans as a dwindling market but dynamic sedans like Subaru’s Legacy will keep the sedan segment energized and popular. With 27 MPG and a price coming in at around $35,000 for the Limited XT, which has all the bells and whistles, the Legacy is not only a contender, but a winner.
www.subaru.com

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Kia Carnival: A Star is Introduced

travelgirlinc — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 13:48:34 +0000

Kia’s Sedona wasn’t exactly an exciting vehicle, and definitely needed a make-over. And, boy did it get one! The differences are so dramatic that it required a new name — meet the Kia Carnival — and it is full of excitement, energy, technology upgrades and style.
   Yes, the Carnival SX brings a lot to the table with an 8-speed automatic transmission, 290 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, more standard safety features, plenty of upgrades — everything is just better. Really better! This rather bland duck turned into a powerful, beautiful, competitive, stylish swan!
   This beauty can no longer be pegged as a bland minivan. This multi-purpose vehicle (MPF) can go anywhere and be anything! A few of its charms include hands-free Smart Power Liftgate with auto-close, Passenger Talk cabin intercom system (so you can talk to passengers with ease) and dual rear screen entertainment monitors. Another example of its flexibility is that the Carnival’s seating (dubbed “Slide Flex”) allows for multiple configurations, including a sliding second row center, making it easier for those with young children. No kids? Well, the seat can turn into a table for those who need to work from a laptop in the back seat (or do homework).
   A three-row seven- or eight-passenger MPV brings it in terms of refinement, state-of-the art technology and flexibility. It also goes to the head of the class for passenger room space (168,2 cubic feet) and cargo room (145.1 cubic feet behind the first row).
   This beauty can’t be defined or judged against its competitors. It’s in a class by itself.
The Carnival comes in four trim levels, ranging from the LX ($32,100) to the SX-Prestige ($46,100). We drove the SX, which featured surround view monitor, navigation system with 12.3-inch display (with hi res graphics)and Auto Emergency Braking with Junction Turning and Cyclist Detection.
   The ride again is a win. It offers a quiet ride that glided over the highway the way a model does the runway. It knew it was in charge and marvelous. In terms of mileage, it comes around 22 MPG, combined or 19 in the city’ 26 on the highway.
   For those looking for a new vehicle that does it all — and better than most — the Carnival is a must. Props to Kia for doing a total redesign that scores on all points.
www.kia.com

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Hyundai’s Reputation is Front and Center in Sante Fe Hybrid Limited

travelgirlinc — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 14:44:53 +0000

Once again Hyundai’s reputation for delivering quality vehicles with a wide variety of standard features — without a bloated price tag — shows up in the Santa Fe Hybrid Limited All Wheel Drive.
The Santa Fe Hybrid is a well-rounded SUV with plenty of amenities, such as 10.25-inch navigation system, remote smart parking assist, surround view monitor, heated and ventilated front seats and a heated wheel and back seats as well as Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist. If you want it, it’s probably there — and included in the price that starts at $39.950.
   This beauty gets a combined 32 miles per gallon and has a 1.6L turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder hybrid engine that with 178 horsepower, performs well not only on city streets but on highways as well. The Sante Fe’s fuel economy suffers a bit when compared to some competitors, but it’s still pretty good. We appreciated that, unlike many hybrids, the acceleration wasn’t sluggish. It had pep from the get-go. It quickly got up to speed on highways and it also, again unlike other hybrids, didn’t have a noticeable shift when going from gas powered to electric. The handoff was so seamless one could easily forget what is powering the SUV. Combined the hybrid system yields 226 horsepower.
   The Santa Fe is “just right” in terms of dimensions; not too big to be overwhelming but not too small so that passengers feel squeezed. The wheelbase is 108.9 inches; 188.4 inches in length and 74.8 width. The interior space is impressive and can comfortably seat two adults in the back seat and three if you squeeze a bit. The headroom for the front and second row are 39.5 inches and 37.8 inches respectfully. Again, Hyundai delivers a comfortable interior with high-quality materials that make you feel that the SUV is more expensive that it is. The total interior volume is 147.9 cubic feet , and for those wanting cargo space, this SVU again delivers, especially if you fold down the back seats, which will then give you 72.1 cubic feet of space. Not surprisingly, it is among the best in its class in terms of space.
   Is the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Limited a contender? You bet. It has the outstanding engineering, quality features (especially on safety) and it’s a fun family vehicle. Check it out
www.hyundaiusa.com

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Toyota RAV4 Prime Sets a New Standard for Hybrids

travelgirlinc — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 03:48:08 +0000

Our first car was a Toyota Corolla and we’ve been fans of the brand ever since. However, it’s been a while since we slid behind the wheel of one, so we were more than a little excited — and hesitant — to slip behind the wheel of a Toyota RAV4 Prime to see if fond memories matched the current reality. And, they did! The RAV4 is textbook Toyota — a trusty car that is easy to handle, safe, has plenty of features, is fuel efficient and delivers on its promises.
   The all-wheel drive RAV4 is just right in terms of size— not overwhelming but big enough and powerful enough to carry around kids, dogs, luggage and groceries without feeling the car is straining. The 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine, plus the plug-in hybrid system with EV and HV modes, combines for 302 net horsepower and has a 3.3 kW onboard charger. For those looking to save the environment and money, the RAV4 Prime has an EPA-estimated 42-mile EV Mode driving range on a full charge, which means that if you’re using the car for runs to Whole Foods and school pick-ups, you could potentially never need to tap into the gas tank — let the electricity work its magic. For those who need to drive a bit more, the car — with a fully charged battery and tank of gas — has a total driving range of about 600 miles.
   Many may still be unsure of a hybrid vehicle and may worry about the longevity of the battery. Fear not! Starting with the 2020 model, every Toyota Hybrid Battery warranty provides coverage for 10 years from the date of first use or 150,000, whichever comes first.
   We have found that some hybrids may not have the best acceleration, but this RAV4 Prime isn’t one of these. The handling is superb — it quickly showed a burst of power and speed on the entrance ramp to the highway and smoothly held its own on the highway. Whether on the highway or on city streets, the RAV4 Prime’s suspension is tight, balanced and provided a fun ride that was always in control.
Inside, the cabin is comfortable and there is plenty of storage room. A 9-inch touchscreen, heated front seats and auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, are among the many standard features. Toyota has always been lauded for its safety features and the RAV4 Prime includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.0: Pre-Collision, Departure Alert with Steering Assist and blind spot monitor.
The suggested price is around $41,250, but we drove one with a premium package that added about $3,765 to the deal. Overall, the car came in (with a few other extras) at $49,633, which is indeed an incredible value. The RAV4 Prime an incredible car that delivers Toyota quality with a hybrid performance that is among the best — not only in its class — but for all hybrids.
The RAV4 Prime is a shining star in the Toyota galaxy and deservedly so. It’s a terrific feeling when a brand delivers time and time again — and with the case of the RAV4 Prime — over delivers!
www.toyota.com

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