Mazda’s 2026 CX-50 Meridian and CX-90 Turbo S Premium Sport show two different sides of the brand’s SUV lineup.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Meridian And CX-90 Turbo S Review: Two SUVs With Very Different Missions
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Toyota’s redesigned Camry Nightshade delivers aggressive looks, strong MPG, and road-trip comfort, but is the package worth the extra cost?
Continue reading2026 Mazda CX-30 Turbo Aire Edition Review: A Strong Value With Two Big Annoyances
The CX-30 Turbo Aire Edition is a bargain with a catch.
Mazda has always been a “what if” brand for me. I grew up wanting an RX-8 after watching “X2: X-Men United.” Cyclops pulled up in one, and the movie turned it into the coolest getaway car imaginable. My dad still tells the story of buying an RX-7. He was then forced to sell it almost immediately because it wasn’t a family car. Even with that history, this CX-30 Turbo Aire Edition is only the second Mazda I have spent real time with.
The first was the 2025 Mazda3 Hatchback Turbo Premium Plus. I called it a solid sporty commuter with flair. However, the size, cabin feel, and occasional ride discomfort kept it from being a perfect match. That experience sparked my curiosity about Mazda’s small crossover approach. The CX-30 did not catch my attention instantly based on looks alone.
The Aire Edition is new for 2026. It is designed to build on the CX-30’s Preferred-style mix of comfort and convenience. It offers a more distinctive look. The big visual change is the blacked-out theme. This includes gloss black exterior emblems like the Mazda logo and CX-30 name. These changes give the crossover a cleaner, more modern vibe without trying too hard.
Exterior: The Paint and Wheels Do the Heavy Lifting
The CX-30 Turbo Aire Edition is not a head-turner like some rivals aim to be. However, this specific build has presence. The Ceramic Metallic paint looks clean and upscale, and the 18-inch black metallic wheels give it the right contrast. The Aire Edition’s blacked-out accents help, too, and the darker look fits the sporty vibe Mazda is selling.
That blacked-out identity continues beyond the wheels. The Aire Edition pairs those darker details with black roof rails and black side mirrors. These enhancements help the Ceramic Metallic paint stand out even more. They give the vehicle a more cohesive, purposeful look.
Interior: Premium and Tasteful, but Visibility Takes a hit.
Mazda continues to punch above its class inside. The layout is simple, modern, and well-crafted, and the materials feel like they belong in a pricier badge. The seats were a highlight for me, and I liked the cabin’s restrained design more than I expected.
That said, the sporty shape comes with a cost. The windows felt small, and the blind spots were larger than I wanted in daily driving. I spent time adjusting my seating position. I needed to find a comfort zone. This comfort zone also gave me confidence when merging and turning. Once dialed in, it was manageable. However, it is not the kind of vehicle that feels instantly “wide open” around you.
Mazda also leans into lighter interior tones on the Aire Edition to create a more open feel. This includes white leatherette seating and contrasting inserts. There are also suede-like trim touches and light gray stitching. It works because the cabin looks modern and upscale without feeling busy.
Infotainment: The Weak Link of My Week
My biggest frustration was the infotainment experience. Mazda lists a 10.25-inch screen, but it sits deep in the dash, and that placement matters. It looks sleek. However, it feels farther away than it needs to be. Touch interaction is not always practical if you cannot comfortably reach it.
For 2026, Mazda is also promoting touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the 10.25-inch display. Even with that push, the placement and day-to-day usability shaped my experience more than the screen size. It still felt like the interface lived just a bit too far away when I wanted quick, simple interaction.
Apple CarPlay turned into a repeat headache. I connected it a couple of times, then struggled to reliably get it to launch again. That should not happen in a modern vehicle. This is particularly true for someone who usually has zero trouble using CarPlay across other press vehicles. Over a week, it became the one feature I dreaded dealing with instead of enjoying.
Performance: Mazda Handling Is Real, Turbo Response Is Not Perfect
When it comes to driving, this is where the CX-30 reminds you why Mazda has a loyal following. The standard all-wheel drive adds confidence, and the crossover feels planted and safe at speed. The steering and chassis feel connected. You can actually enjoy this compact SUV on a curvy road.
Mazda also keeps Sport mode refreshingly simple. There is no endless menu of drive settings. You click into Sport, or you do not. I love that approach because it respects the driver and keeps the experience clean.
The turbo power is strong, but not flawless. There were moments of lag. I wanted the punch immediately. That kept it from feeling as effortless as I hoped. Fuel economy also took a beating with my heavy foot in Sport. Mazda advertises 25 mpg combined, but my week averaged 16.6 mpg. That is not shocking, given how I drove it. However, it is worth knowing if you plan to lean on the turbo often.
Practicality and Features: Better Than the Complaints Suggest
Some people criticize the CX-30 for its rear space and cargo room. However, I found it more impressive than I initially expected. The cargo area worked well for daily life, and folding the rear seats opens up a surprisingly useful amount of space.
The Bose sound system is also an easy win. It is the kind of feature that instantly makes commuting better. It fits the “premium for the price” theme that runs through this vehicle.
Value and Verdict
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 Turbo Aire Edition has a sticker price of $37,240. It feels like a strong buy for a younger working-class driver. This car offers personality without going over the top. It delivers an upscale cabin, confident handling, and real turbo fun in a size that is easy to live with.
The 2026 CX-30 lineup starts at $25,975. This pricing helps keep the range approachable. Even though the Turbo Aire Edition sits higher, it offers added style and comfort touches.
Still, three issues kept it from hitting higher. Visibility is tighter than it should be. The infotainment experience, especially CarPlay, created more friction than any new vehicle should. The turbo response occasionally lagged when I wanted power right away.
Rating: 7.5/10
2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Limited 4XE Review: A Stunning EV Held Back by Range Anxiety
The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Limited 4XE looks and drives like a premium EV, but its 280-mile range keeps it from perfection in real-world Texas testing.
Continue reading2025 Chrysler Pacifica Limited AWD: The Minivan That Made Me a Believer
With a powerful V-6, AWD confidence, and luxury-grade comfort, the 2025 Chrysler Pacifica proves minivans can still surprise you.
Continue readingFord’s Best Trucks Ranked: From Maverick Lobo to Raptor Ranger to F-150 King Ranch Hybrid
We test-drove four Ford trucks in a month. See how the Ranger, Maverick Lobo, Raptor, and F-150 King Ranch Hybrid ranked in our full review.
Continue readingThe 2025 Jeep Rubicon X Turned Our Week Into a Nonstop Adventure
Our Week With the 2025 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X Was a Date-Night Dream on Wheels
The 2025 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X didn’t just show up at our doorstep—it arrived with a punch of personality thanks to its eye-popping Mojito! Green paint. As someone who loves bold Jeep colors, green and orange are my go-tos, and this particular green nailed it. I was floored before as it pulled up to be dropped off.
Over seven days, this Jeep turned our regular life into an exciting mix of adventure, style, and community. Whether we were headed to the theater or out to dinner, there was something about pulling up in the Rubicon X that made every moment feel elevated. And somehow, by the magic of the Jeep gods, we always ended up parked next to another Jeep—it felt like fate.
But the real surprise came after dinner one night: our very first Jeep ducking.
If you’re not in the know, “ducking” is when Jeep owners leave little rubber duckies on each other’s vehicles as a friendly surprise. It’s one of the coolest, most wholesome automotive traditions out there. That simple gesture absolutely made our night, and we totally get the hype now.
We’ve actually had a duck from a previous TAWA event sitting on our shelf, but now it’s part of our growing collection. At the MS150 event, we picked up another fun duck, and it’s honestly become a joy showing off our “duck squad” wherever we go. It’s like being part of a club, and the Jeep community truly stands out in terms of personality and pride.
Even something as simple as running errands became a memorable experience. I took my mom out with the tops off (the Jeep’s, not ours!) and the smile on her face said it all. Blasting ’80s tunes through the Alpine sound system while cruising in the open air? Total vibe.
Let’s talk about what makes this Rubicon X stand out. It’s the nicest Jeep Wrangler I’ve ever driven—hands down. Inside and out, it’s a stunner. The 12.3-inch Uconnect screen is big and bright. The cabin is surprisingly spacious. The premium cabin package kept things quiet on the road, and the interior lighting, both ambient and functional, was top-tier.
On the trail (or even just hopping curbs for fun), the Jeep Rubicon X can do it:
- Up to 100:1 crawl ratio
- Up to 12.9 inches of ground clearance
- Available 35-inch tires and factory-installed winch
- Dana 44 HD full-float rear axle
- Legendary Rock-Trac 4×4 system
This Rubicon X is as trail-ready as it gets—more than capable of going places most SUVs wouldn’t dream of. From steel bumpers to an integrated off-road camera, everything screams rugged confidence. It’s like carrying a Swiss Army knife on wheels.
That said, not everything hit the mark for us.
At a tested price of $76,190 (with a starting MSRP of $51,455), it’s a serious investment. While you do get a ton of capability and tech, there are a few things we wished were better:
- No wireless phone charging and no real place to put your phone
- Heated seats weren’t warm enough for our liking
- No ventilated seats
- Could really use some green stitching or more colorful interior accents to match the exterior
- Entry is a bit of a climb for shorter folks
Also, while the 3.6-liter V6 with an 8-speed automatic transmission gets the job done, it’s just okay on the street. It doesn’t have the excitement of the 392-powered Wrangler and the 13 mpg fuel economy? Yikes.
Final Verdict
Still, for what it is—an ultra-capable, attention-grabbing, community-inspiring SUV—the 2025 Wrangler Rubicon X delivers on its promise of fun. We laughed, we blasted music, we waved at other Jeeps, and we collected ducks like we were kids again.
If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s more than just transportation—and you’re ready to become part of something bigger—the Rubicon X might just be your next great adventure.
Rating: 8.5/10
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2025 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve – Nissan’s Full-Size Beast Just Leveled Up
A Jaw-Dropping Full-Size SUV That Breaks the Mold
I probably would’ve laughed if someone told me a year ago that I’d be gushing over a Nissan SUV. But after spending a full week behind the 2025 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve wheel, I’m officially eating my words. This isn’t just a new SUV—this is a bold statement from Nissan that they’re stepping into the luxury full-size game, and doing it with serious style, power, and presence.
A Head-Turner from Every Angle
Right out of the gate, the two-tone Alpine Metallic and Super Black paint combo is a stunner. This thing glows in the sunlight and demands attention. The new design language is sleeker and more aggressive, with the LED headlights and full-width taillamps perfectly accentuating its bold shape. It looks more like a luxury European SUV than something you’d expect from Nissan. Every exterior detail screams premium, from the 22-inch alloy wheels to the body-color running boards.
Step Inside: The Wow Factor Is Real
I’ll be honest—I’ve never described a Nissan interior as “gorgeous” before, but here we are. The moment you open the door, the Chestnut and Rye Quilted Leather seats hit you with that high-end vibe. The texture and craftsmanship are top-notch. And with bright ambient interior lighting and customizable 64-color mood settings, it feels like you’re stepping into something way more expensive than its sub-$90K price tag.
Space? Oh yeah—tons of it. Legroom and headroom are generous in all three rows. Whether you’re hauling a family or road-tripping with your crew, everyone rides in comfort. I had four adults and 7 pieces of luggage on an airport run, and the Armada didn’t even flinch. There’s a panoramic sunroof too, which makes the already spacious interior feel even more open and inviting.
Futuristic Tech that’s Actually Useful
Nissan nailed the tech integration. The dual 14.3-inch displays blend seamlessly into the dash, and the digital instrument cluster makes everything look modern and sleek. The camera system deserves its own shoutout—crisp, high-definition views and an intelligent dash cam that records inside and outside the cabin. That’s a big win for safety and peace of mind.
Speaking of safety, the ProPILOT Assist 2.1 for hands-off freeway cruising is fantastic. Combine that with features like pedestrian detection, trailer assist, and an invisible hood view, and this thing is loaded with tools that make you feel like you’re driving smarter, not harder.
Big Power, Big Tank, Big Range
Under the hood, you get a 425-hp twin-turbo V6 and a 9-speed automatic transmission, which offers smooth yet powerful acceleration. It rides a little on the truck-like side, especially over bumps, but it still feels planted and capable. With an 18.7 MPG average and a massive fuel tank, I was able to cruise for almost 500 miles on a single fill-up. That kind of range in a full-size SUV? Chef’s kiss.
Final Verdict: This Ain’t Your Typical Nissan
I’ve driven a lot of full-size SUVs in this price range, and hands down, the 2025 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve is the best one under $100K I’ve experienced. From the luxurious design, premium materials, and tech-forward cabin, to the powerful performance, Nissan has officially raised the bar.
There are just two things I’d tweak:
- No cool box? In a vehicle this nice, that’s a missed opportunity.
- The second-row center console could be more flexible—removable or stowable– which would make cargo loading even easier.
Still, this SUV left a lasting impression. After 7 days, I truly didn’t want to give it back.
2025 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve
- Starting Price: $79,990
- Price as-Tested: $86,840
- Horsepower: 425 hp
- Torque: 516 lb-ft
- Seats: 7
This new Armada doesn’t just look like a luxury SUV—it feels like one. Nissan came out swinging, and this one’s a game-changer. Want to turn heads on the road and feel like a boss behind the wheel? Go test drive this thing. You’ll see exactly what I mean.
Rating: (9/10)
Bonus Take: We Also Took Armada’s Big Brother for a Spin at TAWA’s Autoroundup.
We had the unique chance to line up the new Armada next to its more luxurious sibling, the all-new 2025 INFINITI QX80, and let me tell you—it’s a whole different experience. If the Armada is the boss, the QX80 is the CEO who wears tailored suits and flies first class.
Right away, the QX80 grabs you with its bolder exterior design and standout color. Inside, it levels up everything we loved about the Armada. The leather is even plusher; there’s a cool box for your drinks, and additional digital screens control seat temp and comfort settings. Oh, and the top-of-the-line sound system? Absolutely elite.
With 450 horsepower, the QX80 feels just as powerful but more refined. The only thing we wished for was a slightly softer ride, but honestly, that’s nitpicking.
2025 INFINITI QX80
- Starting Price: $82,450
- Price as-Tested: $110,595
- Horsepower: 450 hp
- Torque: 516 lb-ft
- MPG: 16/19/17
The QX80 is everything the new Nissan Armada is—and more. It’s a true flagship SUV that sets a new standard for INFINITI.
Rating: 9.5/10
Ford Showdown: Ranking Four SUV & Trucks from a 4-Week Test Drive
Ranking the 4 Ford Vehicles We Tested: A Comprehensive Review
Over the past month, we embarked on an exhilarating journey, test-driving four of Ford’s latest vehicles to see how they stack up in performance, design, and overall value. From rugged SUVs to high-performance trucks, we experienced the full spectrum of what Ford has to offer in 2024. Each vehicle brought something unique to the table, showcasing Ford’s versatility in catering to different lifestyles and driving needs. However, not all models lived up to expectations, with some surprising us with their refinement and power, while others left us longing for more. After countless miles on highways, city streets, and even a road trip to Dallas for the Texas Truck Rodeo, we ranked these four vehicles to help you decide which one might deserve a spot in your driveway. Here’s our take on Ford’s Bronco Sport, Ranger, Explorer, and the jaw-dropping F-150 Raptor R.
#4 – 2024 Bronco Sport Big Bend 4X4
Anticipation was high for the Bronco Sport Big Bend 4X4, but the experience fell short. While the AZURE GRAY METALLIC exterior is undeniably attractive, the Bronco Sport feels more like a Ford Escape with a Bronco badge rather than the rugged off-roader it mimics. Cost-cutting is evident in the interior, which lacks the refinement of its bigger sibling. Under the hood, the 1.5L EcoBoost engine doesn’t deliver the punch expected for its price point.
The removal of the base trim level makes the Big Bend the new entry model, with a starting MSRP of $37,940. Standard features like four-wheel drive and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system are nice touches, but they don’t fully justify the cost. While blind-spot monitoring is a welcome safety feature, the driving experience and overall value left us unimpressed.
Learn more about the Bronco Sport here.
#3 – 2024 Ranger SuperCrew 4X4 Lariat
Our first drive in a Ranger exceeded expectations. This midsize pickup is a head-turner with its Hot Pepper Red Metallic exterior. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, offering strong highway performance and admirable fuel efficiency. The refined chassis and premium interior elevate the Ranger’s appeal, making it a great option for road trips.
During our Dallas journey for the Texas Truck Rodeo, the Ranger’s comfort and performance shone. The Lariat trim’s 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch vertical infotainment display bring modern tech to the forefront. The Ranger stands as a solid midsize pickup, with an interior so polished it might give the Ford Maverick something to aspire to.
Learn more about the Ranger Lariat here.
#2 – 2025 Explorer ST 4WD
The Explorer ST 4WD in VAPOR BLUE brought a wave of nostalgia, harking back to our family’s first Explorer Sport from 2001. With its 400-hp, 3.0L twin-turbo V6, the Explorer ST combines family-car practicality with sports-car performance. The 10-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth shifts, while Ford’s BlueCruise highway-driving aid adds a futuristic, surreal element to long drives.
Inside, the Explorer is sporty and spacious. The 13.2-inch widescreen infotainment system and micro-perforated Miko upholstery create a premium ambiance. The third row may be best suited for children, but the front and second rows provide ample space for adults. Overall, the Explorer ST impresses as a versatile and thrilling midsize SUV.
Learn more about the Explorer ST here.
#1 – 2024 F-150 SuperCrew Raptor R
The 2024 F-150 SuperCrew Raptor R in Oxford White claims the top spot. With its monstrous 5.2L supercharged V8 engine producing 720 horsepower, the Raptor R is an unparalleled performance truck. A tighter steering ratio and five-link rear suspension enhance control, while features like Fox Live Valve shocks and dual exhaust make off-road adventures exhilarating.
The interior features a 12-inch productivity screen, heated second-row seats, and a head-up display. Tech highlights include SYNC 4 with a 12-inch screen and a 360-degree camera. Priced at $114,000, the Raptor R is a super truck in every sense, delivering thrills that justify its cost. It’s the greatest performance truck we’ve ever driven—a true engineering masterpiece.
Learn more about the Raptor R here.
Final Thoughts
Each vehicle brought something unique to the table, but the F-150 Raptor R’s unmatched power and capability secured its place as our favorite. Whether you’re seeking a family SUV, a midsize pickup, or a rugged off-roader, Ford offers something for every driver. Just be prepared to weigh the features against the price tag to find your perfect match.
2025 Nissan Sentra SR: Stylish, Smooth, and Surprisingly Sophisticated
2025 Nissan Sentra SR Impresses on All Fronts
Driving the 2025 Nissan Sentra SR from Houston to San Antonio for Space Con was a treat that far exceeded expectations. With its stylish design, smooth ride, and impressive features, this compact sedan proved to be an ideal companion for the road trip. Nissan’s latest offering in the Sentra lineup has upped the ante, blending practicality with a surprising level of sophistication.
Stylish Design
One of the first things to catch our eye was the Sentra SR’s bold styling. Painted in the stunning Atlantic Gray Metallic, the car radiated elegance and sportiness in equal measure. The SR trim adds to the visual appeal with 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, and chrome exhaust finishers. Inside, the design theme continues with sport Charcoal Leatherette seats accented by reddish-orange stitching, giving the cabin a premium and energetic vibe. Nissan’s attention to detail, like the D-shaped steering wheel and air vents inspired by the GT-R, brings a sense of performance-oriented flair to this practical sedan.
Comfort and Practicality
A smooth ride and comfortable seating make the Sentra SR a standout for long drives. The seats provided excellent support over our hours on the road, and the interior felt spacious without being overbearing. Nissan has also done a fantastic job with trunk space—it easily swallowed up all our luggage and event gear. The Sentra’s comfort-oriented features, such as a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel and the option for quilted leather-appointed seats in the SV Premium Package, ensure that both driver and passengers remain relaxed on the journey.
Performance and Technology
Historically, I’ve been critical of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). However, the Sentra SR’s CVT and 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine changed my perspective. Producing 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque, the powertrain delivered smooth and responsive acceleration, especially impressive for a vehicle in this class. The CVT has been tuned to provide a more natural shift pattern, and the results are a seamless driving experience, especially on the highway.
The Sentra SR also earns points for its fuel efficiency, making it only necessary for one stop for gas during our trip. Idle Stop/Start technology adds to its fuel-saving credentials, making it an economical choice for daily commuting or longer road trips.
Cutting-Edge Features
The 2025 Sentra doesn’t skimp on technology. Apple CarPlay comes standard with three USB ports in the SR trims. For those who value premium sound, the SR’s Premium Package includes an 8-speaker Bose audio system that filled the cabin with crystal-clear sound.
Safety remains a cornerstone of Nissan’s offerings, and the Sentra is no exception. All trims come equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360. This includes advanced features such as Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning. Additional enhancements like Intelligent Forward Collision Warning and Intelligent Driver Alertness make the Sentra feel as safe as it is stylish.
Value Proposition
The 2025 Nissan Sentra is a solid deal with a starting MSRP of $21,590. The SR trim starts at MSRP of $24,590. It offers an excellent value considering its long list of amenities, including a power-sliding moonroof, Intelligent Around View® Monitor, and Wi-Fi hotspot. It’s a feature-packed vehicle that doesn’t break the bank.
Verdict
The 2025 Nissan Sentra SR delivers an impressive blend of style, comfort, performance, and technology. Whether you’re running daily errands or embarking on a road trip like ours to Space Con, this sedan rises to the occasion. Nissan has fine-tuned the Sentra to be more than just a practical choice; it’s a genuinely enjoyable car to drive.
Rating: 9/10