Ford F-150 Lightning – 2022 First Impression Test Drive

F-150 Lightning Frunk

The 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning could become the ultimate truck.

America’s best-selling truck for 45 years, the Ford F-Series, is going 100% Electric. The 2022 F-150 Lightning is slowly hitting the streets, and I had the opportunity to spend quality time with the latest EV. The Lightning is the fastest-accelerating F-150 to date. It does 0-60 mph in the mid-4-second range when equipped with an extended-range battery. The Electric motors provide 580 horsepower and 775 pound-feet of torque. As you can see, no engine allows for a Mega Power Frunk. So you get 400 liters of volume and 400 pounds of payload with the extra storage space. It has an available maximum payload capacity of 2,235 pounds in the standard-range model with 18-inch wheels and a maximum of 10,000 pounds of available towing capacity on XLT and Lariat trucks with the extended-range battery and Max Trailer Tow Package.

First Reaction

The Lightning is just like any F-150. It has tons of options regarding trim choice and additional features. The only difference is that it is electric, but it is still FORD Tough. The quality of the build is just as solid as any F-150 you see on the road. No corners have been cut. The immediate power from the electric motors is such a thrill and makes such a heavy vehicle feel light and nimble. The capability when it comes to power tools and even your house is impressive, and that is thanks to the 10-kilowatt Pro Power Onboard system. The everyday use that Lightning can offer will be an exciting task to explore in my upcoming extensive review.

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The starting price of the 2022 Ford Lightning seen above is $67,474.

  •  4×4 Supercrew Lariat
  • Smoked Quartz Exterior
  • Dual Motor Extended Range

The total MSRP comes outs to $81,099. I look forward to compiling an extensive review of the Ford F-150 Lightning when I get my hands on it for several days!

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Karma Revero GT – 2020 Test Drive

I had the opportunity to test drive the 2020 Karma Revero GT, which is making its cross-country tour stop at Post Oak Motor Cars. As I arrived, I noticed 4 of the 11 colors: NAPA RED, PACIFICO GREY, BODEGA BAY BLUE, and BALBOA BLUE. However, the one that stood out to me the most was the Pacifico Grey. It was beaming with Metallic paint sitting on 22-inch wheels and combined with bright orange calipers. The Revero GT had a two-tone red/black interior that was calling my name. As you approach the vehicle, you notice an aesthetically progressive and elegant design. A wider wheelbase on the Revero GT makes the fender lines flow like a piece of art. As you approach the reshaped headlights, you are greeted by a customizable carbon fiber applique on the front fascia.

Ready to get inside, I feared how my 6’1 self would fit in such a car.

But, surprisingly, no issues were getting comfortable behind the steering wheel other than some ducking to clear the Alcantara headliner. The interior is sleek and modern. Yet, it is minimal as the infotainment system is the focal point of the dash. The instrumental cluster is 100% digital. On the steering wheel, the left paddle allows you to select driving modes such as Stealth, Sustain, and Sport, and the right paddle offers three braking levels. The center console that houses the geometric gear shift controls stretches back to the rear seats, with ample room for someone my size.

This car offers 535 HP/559 lb-ft of torque and weighs just over 5,000lbs. The Revero GT is equipped with dual electric motors and an all-electric powertrain combined with a BMW “TwinPower” Turbo 3 cylinder engine. This is the same setup seen in the BMW i8 that powers the onboard electric generator. It allows for a 0-60 acceleration in 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 125mph. In Sustain Mode, the Revero GT has a range of 80 miles of pure electric miles and an extended overall range of 360 miles.

On the Houston roads, this car feels great as it is dense and solid.

The chassis and suspension system do their job well while providing a smooth ride and absorbing any road impacts I have encountered. It is no chore to drive this car with its spirited performance. In Sport Mode, you can unleash all the power of the Revero GT. At full throttle, it accelerates very quickly but quietly with a subtle Tron-like sound as you hear the three cylinders kick into high gear and push you back into your seat.
The estimated starting price of the 2020 Karma Revero GT is $135,000. However, it is worth a look if Karma ever piqued your curiosity, as it is better looking inside and out with improved performance than its predecessor.

Thanks to Karma Automotive & Post Oak Motors for the opportunity. Read more Articles and Subscribe to our YouTube.

Lexus LX 570 Test Drive Review

At the Off-road Invitational, an entire variety of vehicles was offered from different manufacturers. One SUV, in particular, I looked forward to jumping behind the wheel of was the 2019 Lexus LX 570. The many courses offered at General Sam’s Off-road Park gave us the ideal terrain to test the LX 570’s capabilities. The main course I drove on had many challenges, especially with the rain pouring down on us during this two-day event. However, from crawling out of muddy craters to climbing up hills, this luxury SUV was able to tackle everything in its way with ease. The full-time four-wheel-drive system with a TORSEN limited-slip center differential and manual locking was a much-needed feature. Another great feature was the under-vehicle camera that showed not just what was up ahead but also what the front of the vehicle was approaching, so you were never surprised at the obstacle ahead.

If you are looking for an SUV associated with outdoor recreation and off-road with luxury, look no further than to the 2019 Lexus LX 570. The newest facelift continues its elegant and sophisticated look with a large grill, and distinctive redesigned LED headlights. In addition, you can choose two configurations: a two-row version that seats five and offers the most cargo space or a three-row version that seats 8.

The 5.7-liter V8 offers 383 horsepower and 403 lbs. of torque.

The V8 engine works in sync with an eight-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission that has a towing capacity of 7,000 lbs. In addition, you are ready to tackle off-road challenges with its full-time four-wheel drive, height-adjustable suspension, and advanced system features like crawl control and multi-terrain select. The LX 570 also offers a bird’s eye view of the vehicles surrounding for added safety and peace of mind.

The interior features modern artisan-crafted wood trim and a self-monitoring heated and leather-trimmed steering wheel. The seats are incredibly soft with high-grade semi-aniline perforated leather. It has a 14-way driver and 12-way front passenger power-adjustable seats. The rear has customizable seating and storage that is versatile. It features a power sliding 60/40 second-row seat with a 40/20/40 split setback. A 50/50 split third-row seat is in the three-row version. The cabin has four-zone climate control with 28 vents and heated and ventilated seats. There is also a cool box to keep your beverages chilled. The 2019 Lexus LX 570 takes an already luxurious platform and elevates it to world-class status. With an MSRP of $86,080.00, it will stand out for its luxury accommodation and off-road proficiency.

Big thanks to the Off-Road Invitational event coordinators, manufactures and sponsors:

Prestige Auto – NuvinAir – Xpel – Horn Whinery – Azeo Distillery  – Garrison Brothers Distillery

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Rolls Royce Cullinan, A $400,000 SUV

Texas Off-road Invitational gave me the opportunity to drive a Rolls Royce Cullinan!

I received an invite to the first annual Texas Off-Road Invitational via the Texas Motor Press Association to test drive several different SUVs & Trucks. The highlight of this two-day event was getting behind the wheel of a Rolls Royce’s Ultimate Luxury SUV, the Cullinan. The Cullinan gets its name from the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found in Cullinan, South Africa, in 1905, which was later placed onto Elizabeth II’s crown. Before first stepping into the driver’s seat, I hopped into the back row seating to get the ultimate Rolls Royce experience. Immediately after I sat down, I was amazed by the ample leg room.

I am 6’1 and was more than comfortable. I was able to lounge back in the rear and stretch my legs without worrying about the driver. Modern and traditional designs filled the interior with nothing but luxury. The analog chrome lever that opened and closed the air vents was the most straightforward yet eye-catching feature. Inside, you are surrounded by slabs of wood, soft plush leather, and hidden Spirit of Ecstasy emblems.

The ride itself was nice and luxurious, even during some mild off-roading.

“Effortless Everywhere” is Cullinan’s motto. This is entirely true wherever you take it, as this vehicle does a lot for you. The car reads what you are doing and selects the ideal driving mode for you, including off-road and hill descent options. Even in rougher terrains, there is still unparalleled comfort. It is always in all-wheel drive, equipped with wheel rear steering, and can raise or lower when needed. The engine packs a massive punch with a 6.7 L V12, paired with an 8 Speed transmission, which gives you 563HP and 627 TQ and fuel consumption of 18.8 mpg. With its performance features, you can comfortably and safely conquer sand, rain, snow, and ice. This hand-built SUV was configured for adventure, bringing form and function together.

Verdict

If you are in the market for a top-tier, luxury, off-road capable yet graceful SUV, then forget about the competitors because the Cullinan is in a league of its own.

5 out of 5 Stars

Big thanks to the Off-Road Invitational event coordinators, manufactures and sponsors:

Prestige Auto – NuvinAir – Xpel – Horn Whinery – Azeo Distillery  – Garrison Brothers Distillery