Drive Reports
2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited
posted on March 5th, 2017 | Uncategorized
2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited
Overview
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra has been fully redesigned and gets a fresh new updated look. Highlighting the new Elantra are three new engines and a host of impressive tech features.
Safety Features
- Safety
- Air Bag-Frontal-Driver
- Air Bag-Frontal-Passenger
- Air Bag-Side Body-Front
- Air Bag-Side Head-Front
- Air Bag-Side Head-Rear
- Brakes-ABS
- Child Safety Rear Door Locks
- Daytime Running Lights
- Traction Control
- Tire Pressure Monitor
- Back-Up Camera
- Stability Control
- Other FeaturesElectronic Stability Control (ESC)
- ABS And Driveline Traction Control
- Side Impact Beams
- Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
- Low Tire Pressure Warning
- Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Front Airbags
- Curtain 1st And 2nd Row Airbags
- Airbag Occupancy Sensor
- Driver Knee Airbag
- Rear Child Safety Locks
- Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safety Belts -inc: Rear Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safety Belts -inc: Rear Center
Driving Impression
The 2017 Elantra has improved its 2.0-liter engine, which has changed remarkably from the 2016 Elantra. Acceleration is more than adequate and the 2.0 liter motor is mated to a CVT automatic transmission. The transmission shifts effortlessly, both on the highway and city driving.
Braking was more than adequate any stopping situation and the steering is very responsive in hard turns.
Under the Hood
The 2.0liter engine produces 147 Hp and is adequate for the Elantra and has a combined MPG of 32
| Base engine size | 2.0 Liters |
| Base engine type | I-4 |
| Horsepower | 147 Hp |
| Horsepower rpm | 6,200 |
| Torque | 132 Lb-Ft. |
| Torque rpm | 4,500 |
Inside
The Elantra’s interior design is similar to the larger Sonata, that exemplifies quality. The Elantra’s center stack is tilted slightly for easy access and uses buttons and knobs for the audio and climate controls, and has a large touchscreen. The 2017 Elantra’s front seats are very supportive and have unique side bolsters.
The door openings large and make it easy to get in and out for both front and rear seat passengers.
Our Elantra Limited came equipped with a host of equipment listed below
- Technology package including navigation system AVN 4.0 with 8-inch touchscreen
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- premium audio with eight speakers, including a center channel and subwoofer
- 2-inch TFT color instrument cluster display
- power sunroof
- heated front and rear seats
- auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink and compass
- Ultimate package including HID headlights with dynamic bending light
- automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- smart cruise control
- lane keep assist system
- integrated memory system for driver’s seat and outside mirrors
- carpeted floor mats
Outside
The 2017 Elantra has a trapezoidal grille highlighted by LED daytime running lights and reshaped headlights. The 2017 Elantra’s all new evolutionary front fascia has a trapezoidal grille . The raised rear end is reshaped with LED taillights and highlighted with a integrated rear spoiler.
Summary
If you are in the market for a mid size sedan, that is priced moderately go to your local Hyundai dealer for a test drive today.
Specifications
- Base Curb Weight (lbs)2767
- Interior Dimensions
- Front Shoulder Room (in)56.2
- Second Hip Room (in)51.9
- Front Head Room (in)38.8
- Second Leg Room (in)35.7
- Passenger Capacity5
- Front Hip Room (in)53.4
- Front Leg Room (in)42.2
- Second Shoulder Room (in)55.3
- Passenger Volume (ft³)95.8
- Second Head Room (in)37.3
- Exterior Dimensions
- Track Width, Front (in)61.5
- Width, Max w/o mirrors (in)70.9
- Wheelbase (in)106.3
- Track Width, Rear (in)61.9
- Height, Overall (in)56.5
- Length, Overall (in)179.9
- Min Ground Clearance (in)5.3
- Cargo Area Dimensions
- Trunk Volume (ft³)14.4
2017 Ford Super Duty truck leaves competition in the dust
posted on September 29th, 2016 | Uncategorized2016 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE
posted on August 1st, 2016 | Uncategorized2016 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE
Overview
The 2016 Toyota recently improved the cabin quality and handling of the Camry Hybrid. The Camry Hybrid is very competitive midsize sedan in its class. The best thing about this Hybrid sedan is the excellent mileage it gets.
Safety Features
Safety Features
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Driving Impression
Acceleration and Power
The 2016 Toyota Camry Hybrid has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that generate 200 horsepower combined. A continuously variable transmission (automatic) is standard. The Camry SE Hybrid gets an impressive 40/38-mpg.
The Camry Hybrid is quick off the line and has superb gas mileage especially in the city and excellent on the road. You can hardly notice the transition between gas and electric power. The transmission has a little whine when you hit the accelerator hard.
Handling and Braking
The 2016 Toyota Camry Hybrid’s has excellent handling and the vehicle is easy to maneuver in any situation. The Camry Hybrid’s overall ride is quiet and smooth over any pavement.
Under the Hood
Engine & Performance
| BASE ENGINE SIZE2.5 L | CAM TYPEDouble overhead cam (DOHC) |
| CYLINDERSInline 4 | VALVES16 |
| VALVE TIMINGVariable | HORSEPOWER200 hp @ 5700 rpm |
| TURNING CIRCLE36.7 ft. |
Inside
The 2016 Camry Hybrid has upscale materials through out the cabin, which makes this Hybrid standout in its class. My test drive had Bluetooth, USB port and Toyota’s Entune audio system with a 6.1-inch touch screen. Highlighting the SE Hybrid a sunroof, satellite radio, an upgraded Entune system with navigation and smartphone app integration, wireless smartphone charging, a JBL audio system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision warning and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert.
There are physical knobs that control the audio volume and tuner
There is plenty of room in Camry Hybrid for five adults and comes standard with a power-adjustable driver’s seat, The front and back seats very comfortable, and with plenty of legroom for adult passengers.
The trunk space is 13.1 cubic feet, and the passenger rear seat folds down to create a pass-through and more storage space.
Features
Interior Features
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Outside
The Camry has a bold, eye-catching front end and a nicely detailed rear end. The styling for the Camry Hybrid carries on the DNA of the entire Toyota line
Summary
If you are in the market for a full size Hybrid Sedan then go to your local Toyota dealer for a test drive today.
Specifications
Exterior Measurements
| WIDTH5 ft. 11.7 in. (71.7 in.) | HEIGHT4 ft. 9.9 in. (57.9 in.) |
| LENGTH15 ft. 10.9 in. (190.9 in.) | WHEEL BASE9 ft. 1.3 in. (109.3 in.) |
Interior Measurements
| FRONT HEAD ROOM38.8 in. | FRONT HIP ROOM54.5 in. |
| FRONT LEG ROOM41.6 in. | FRONT SHOULDER ROOM58.0 in. |
| REAR HIP ROOM54.5 in. | REAR HEAD ROOM38.1 in. |
| REAR LEG ROOM38.9 in. | REAR SHOULDER ROOM56.6 in. |
2016 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD
posted on July 25th, 2016 | Uncategorized
2016 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD
Overview
The 2016 Toyota Highlander is a reliable and functional SUV. The 2016 Highlander is basically unchanged from the previous year, but has a bold exterior
Safety Features
Safety Features
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Driving Impression
The Highlander XLE has exceptional acceleration and the driving dynamics are phenomenal for a vehicle this size. The Highlander has a controlled ride over all driving surfaces and has exceptional suspension. The Highlander is very quiet, easy to maneuver and relatively easy to park
Under the Hood
The Highlander XLE pairs a V6 engine 3.5-liter V-6, with 270 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque; it’s also teamed up with a 6-speed automatic
Engine & Performance
| BASE ENGINE SIZE3.5 L | BASE ENGINE TYPEGas |
| CAM TYPEDouble overhead cam (DOHC) | CYLINDERSV6 |
| TORQUE248 ft-lbs. @ 4700 rpm | TURNING CIRCLE38.7 ft. |
| VALVE TIMINGVariable | VALVES24 |
Inside
The 2016 Toyota Highlander interior uses an array of upscale materials and high end finishes. The front seats are very comfortable and a centralized multimedia screen highlights the center stack. There, you’ll find easy-to-use controls, including knobs for the main radio functions, and for the climate controls below them. A huge center console sits between the two front seats that you can store a laptop or a large IPad. There is enough room in the 2nd row of seats for adults and kids-only third row.
Below is a list of all the creature features on my test drive.
Front Seats
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Outside
The 2016 Highlander has a bold grille opening and more sculptured rear end, it also offers a fresh face using the Toyota DNA found on other models.
Summary
If you are in the market for a full size SUV, which can haul the entire family then go to your local Toyota Dealer for a test drive today.
Specifications
Exterior Measurements
| WIDTH6 ft. 3.8 in. (75.8 in.) | HEIGHT5 ft. 8.1 in. (68.1 in.) |
| LENGTH15 ft. 11.1 in. (191.1 in.) | WHEEL BASE9 ft. 1.8 in. (109.8 in.) |
Interior Measurements
| FRONT HEAD ROOM40.7 in. | FRONT HIP ROOM57.2 in. |
| FRONT LEG ROOM44.2 in. | FRONT SHOULDER ROOM59.3 in. |
| REAR HIP ROOM57.1 in. | REAR HEAD ROOM39.9 in. |
| REAR LEG ROOM38.4 in. | REAR SHOULDER ROOM59.6 in. |
2017 Kia Sportage SX
posted on July 17th, 2016 | UncategorizedOverview
The fully redesigned 2017 Kia Sportage is all new and has more room in the backseat than its predecessor. The 2017 Sportage now has improved the ride to go along with its new design.
The Sportage now is ready to take on the competition is the mid size CUV class.
Safety Features
Safety Features
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Driving Impression
Driving Impressions
The 2017 Sportage rides and handles superbly. My test drive came equipped with the 2.0 liter SX Turbo drive train, which was surprisingly quick and agile on the highway. The Sportage was fun to drive and had great road maneuverability. Highlighting the Sportage was a six-speed automatic, which is one of the best transmissions in this segment.
Under the Hood
The SX Turbo AWD model comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 240 hp and 260 lb.-ft.
The SX Turbo has decent gas mileage 21 mpg combined (20/23).
Engine & Performance
| BASE ENGINE SIZE2.4 L | CAM TYPEDouble overhead cam (DOHC) |
| CYLINDERSInline 4 | VALVES16 |
| VALVE TIMINGVariable | TORQUE175 ft-lbs. @ 4000 rpm |
| HORSEPOWER181 hp @ 6000 rpm | TURNING CIRCLE34.8 ft. |
Inside
Interior Design and Special Features
The 2017 Sportage’s interior has been totally updated using high-end materials and the layout is definitely user friendly. The dashboard has a, upscale look and a central control layout that angles toward the driver. The 8-inch touchscreen features excellent graphics, which feature Uvo infotainment functions (including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for full smartphone integration).
The Sportage’s passenger space and comfort are phenomenal for this mid size CUV. The driver and front passenger seating is excellent with plenty of head- and legroom.
Rear cargo has 30.7 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, and folding down the rear seats give you 60.1 cubic feet of storage
Below is a list of all the interior features found on my test drive.
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Outside
The styling on the 2017 Sportage has the DNA for Kia with its signature grill. The Sportage has a unique stance, which is sporty and muscular looking. The wheels have the appearance of being pushed out to the corners and the sides are more deeply sculpted.
Summary
If you are in the market for a Mid-Size CUV then go to your local Kia dealer for a test drive today
Specifications
Exterior Measurements
| WIDTH6 ft. 1 in. (73 in.) | HEIGHT5 ft. 4.4 in. (64.4 in.) |
| LENGTH14 ft. 7.2 in. (175.2 in.) | GROUND CLEARANCE0 ft. 6.8 in. (6.8 in.) |
| WHEEL BASE8 ft. 7.9 in. (103.9 in.) |
Interior Measurements
| FRONT HEAD ROOM39.1 in. | FRONT HIP ROOM53.7 in. |
| FRONT LEG ROOM41.4 in. | FRONT SHOULDER ROOM56.7 in. |
| REAR HIP ROOM49.1 in. | REAR HEAD ROOM38.5 in. |
| REAR LEG ROOM37.9 in. | REAR SHOULDER ROOM55.1 in. |
2016 Toyota Tacoma Limited Double Cab
posted on July 11th, 2016 | Uncategorized2016 Toyota Tacoma Limited Double Cab
Overview
The 2016 Tacoma has minor changes to a hot segment with vehicles like the GMC Canyon and the Chevrolet Colorado. Toyota has a reputation of reliability and definitely this vehicle lives up to that.
Safety Features
Safety Features
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Driving Impression
The Tacoma’s 3.5-liter V6 engine is smooth and quiet at any speed. Acceleration is a little sluggish, but the steering was very responsive.
The ride was exceptional for a truck over a variety of road surfaces. My test drive was a Limited model, which rode on 18-inch tires and had road-tuned suspension. The Tacoma’s has 9.4 inches of ground clearance, which surpasses GMs Canyon & Colorado.
Under the Hood
The V6’s has 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. EPA estimates for my test-drive 4×4 Tacoma 20 mpg combined (18/23) with the automatic.
Engine & Performance
| BASE ENGINE SIZE3.5 L | CAM TYPEDouble overhead cam (DOHC) |
| CYLINDERSV6 | VALVES24 |
| VALVE TIMINGVariable | TORQUE265 ft-lbs. @ 4600 rpm |
| HORSEPOWER278 hp @ 6000 rpm | TURNING CIRCLE40.6 ft. |
Inside
The interior of the 2016 Tacoma has a very contemporary design from its dashboard to the materials used through out the cabin. The large touchscreen is easy to use and climate control knobs and secondary switches beneath.
The front seats are supportive and hold you in place.
My test drive was a Double Cab and the rear seat had plenty of room for adults.
Below is a list of the many features that were on my Limited test drive.
Features
Interior Features
Front Seats
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Outside
The styling on the 2016 Tacoma has over tones of the 4Runner and Tundra. Highlighting the Tacoma is a large front grille, which is designed for improved cooling when towing.
Summary
If you are in the market for a mid size pick up truck then go to your local Toyota store for a test drive today!
Specifications
Exterior Measurements
| WIDTH6 ft. 2.4 in. (74.4 in.) | HEIGHT5 ft. 10.6 in. (70.6 in.) |
| LENGTH17 ft. 8.3 in. (212.3 in.) | GROUND CLEARANCE0 ft. 9.4 in. (9.4 in.) |
| WHEEL BASE10 ft. 7.4 in. (127.4 in.) |
Interior Measurements
| FRONT HEAD ROOM39.7 in. | FRONT HIP ROOM57.2 in. |
| FRONT LEG ROOM42.9 in. | FRONT SHOULDER ROOM58.3 in. |
| REAR HIP ROOM56.3 in. | REAR HEAD ROOM38.3 in. |
| REAR LEG ROOM32.6 in. | REAR SHOULDER ROOM58.9 in. |
2016 Lexus NX 200t F Sport
posted on July 4th, 2016 | Uncategorized
Overview
The 2016 NX 200t offers broader smartphone connectivity through Lexus’ Enform products, but is otherwise unchanged for the model year. The NX styling still stands out from the crowd in its segment.
Safety Features
Safety Features
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Driving Impression
Driving the 2016 Lexus NX 200t is exhilarating with its superb handling both on the road and in the city. The ride is firm, the steering is responsive and the body motion is very controlled when driving around turns. The F Sport has a tuned suspension, paddle shifters, and has a mellow sound via Active Sound Control that pumps artificial engine noise into the cabin.
Under the Hood
A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque powers the NX 200t. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard. My test drive had AWD and hugged the road in any weather condition.
Engine & Performance
| BASE ENGINE SIZE 2.0 L | CAM TYPE Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| CYLINDERS Inline 4 | VALVES 16 |
| VALVE TIMING Variable | TORQUE 258 ft-lbs. @ 1650 rpm |
| HORSEPOWER 235 hp @ 4800 rpm |
Inside
The NX’s interior is dynamic with the use of an array of high quality materials. The interior is totally modern and unique compared to any of its competitors. The workmanship is high end, with materials that look and feel rich. Every detail has been thought of from the contrast stitching, wood trim and an analog clock to make the NX a first class vehicle.
Rear passengers have plenty of room but cargo space is tight. The NX’ has 54.6 cubic feet of total volume and just 17.7 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats.
Below is a list of all the creature features that came on my test drive.
Optional Features
Packages
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Outside
The NX has a very unique exterior with the current Lexus signature features. On the front is the familiar Spindle Grill, which is part of current Lexus DNA.
Highlighting the NX are the unique LED daytime running lights featured on the front end and the ultra modern rear taillights highlight the rear end of this unique CUV
Summary
The NX is a unique CUV and has many attributes that are worth going to see at your local Lexus dealer. So why not go today for a test drive so you can see for yourself.
Specifications
Exterior Measurements
| WIDTH 6 ft. 1.6 in. (73.6 in.) | HEIGHT 5 ft. 4.8 in. (64.8 in.) |
| LENGTH 15 ft. 2.3 in. (182.3 in.) | WHEEL BASE 8 ft. 8.7 in. (104.7 in.) |
Interior Measurements
| FRONT HEAD ROOM 38.2 in. | FRONT HIP ROOM 55.1 in. |
| FRONT LEG ROOM 42.8 in. | FRONT SHOULDER ROOM 57.3 in. |
| REAR HIP ROOM 53.9 in. | REAR HEAD ROOM 38.1 in. |
| REAR LEG ROOM 36.1 in. | REAR SHOULDER ROOM 55.3 in. |














































