Dodge Hornet GT Plus Is All The Buzz With Young Adults

The Dodge Hornet GT Plus excites me about Dodge’s future.

 

In 2023, Dodge launched the Dodge Hornet GT Plus, a hatchback crossover classified as a compact utility vehicle aimed at the young adult market. This stylish ride’s exterior design may remind you of the Porsche Macan, but it’s actually a modified and rebranded Alfa Romeo Tonale. The one I had the pleasure of driving for a few days was coated in the stunning Acapulco Gold color and equipped with an interior I had not seen in a Dodge product before.

Under the hood, the Dodge Hornet GT Plus boasts a 2.0 Liter Hurricane 4 Cylinder Engine that delivers 268 horsepower and 296 lb-ft of torque, packing a punch. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds with its 9-speed automatic transmission, making it an exciting ride for any adventure. Additionally, its all-wheel-drive capability ensures stability and traction in various road conditions. I prefer driving this car in Sport Mode, easily reachable by a dedicated button on the steering wheel, which unlocks a sharper throttle, optimized shift schedule, access to full power and torque, a tighter steering wheel feel, and a stiffer suspension setting if equipped with Dual Stage Valve shocks.

For driving enthusiasts looking to enhance their driving experience, the $2995 Track Pack is a must-have. This upgrade includes driver-adjustable dual-mode dampers, black and red Alcantara-upholstered seats, four-piston fixed Brembo front brake calipers, and 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires. Activating the Sport mode sharpens throttle response and firms up the dampers, enhancing performance and handling.

Additional packages bloat the price of the Hornet.

In terms of technology, the Dodge Hornet GT Plus offers a Tech Pack with driver assist systems and 360-degree cameras, providing added safety and convenience. However, some of these features should arguably come standard across all Dodge vehicles. The base MSRP of the Dodge Hornet GT Plus is competitively priced at $34,995, but the tested model, at $41,810, may be considered slightly high for its category. Nevertheless, its aggressive styling and well-crafted interior make it one of the standout vehicles in Dodge’s lineup.

Overall, the Dodge Hornet GT Plus impresses with its performance, style, and technology blend. As Dodge continues to refine and enhance this platform, we can expect even more exciting developments in the future. Whether you’re a young adult seeking a thrilling ride or appreciate a well-designed vehicle, the Dodge Hornet GT Plus is worth considering.

A Bolder Dodge Hornet

For the 2024 model year, Dodge is set to revolutionize the market with the debut of the Dodge Hornet R/T, marking the brand’s entry into electrified performance vehicles. This groundbreaking model boasts an impressive 288 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque, making it the most powerful utility vehicle in its segment. One of the standout features of the Dodge Hornet R/T is its all-electric capability, offering a remarkable 32 miles of electric range thanks to a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery. With an impressive efficiency rating of 77 MPGe and a total range of 360 miles, it promises both power and practicality.

2024 Dodge Hornet R/T (left), shown in Hot Tamale, and 2023 Dodge Hornet GT, shown in Gray Cray.

The Dodge Hornet R/T introduces the innovative PowerShot feature, a class-exclusive offering that delivers an extra burst of 30 horsepower on demand. Drivers can tailor their driving experience with the Hornet R/T’s selection of driving modes, including Sport Mode and three hybrid modes: Hybrid, Electric, and E-Save. This versatility allows for optimal performance and efficiency in various driving conditions.

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2023 DODGE CHARGER SUPER BEE REVIEW

2023 Lexus LX 600 F Sport: Navigating the New Year in Style

2023 Lexus LX 600 F Sport in front of high rise.

Unleashing power and prestige in the 2023 Lexus LX 600 F Sport.

As the clock struck midnight, I found myself behind the wheel of the bold and beautiful 2023 Lexus LX 600 F Sport, ready to welcome the New Year with a stylish drive to the casinos in Lake Charles. Over the next seven days, I enjoyed experiencing this super luxury SUV from every angle, exploring its strengths, quirks, and everything in between.

Bold in Black: The VIP Look

As I walked past the Lexus LX 600 F Sport, the sleek black exterior immediately caught my eye and exuded a VIP aura. However, I noticed that the bold color choice masks some of the intricate lines of this luxury SUV. Nonetheless, as I drove through the city streets, the LX 600 turned heads with its commanding presence.

Exterior Rating: 9/10

Spacious, Yet a Bit Cramped: Cockpit Quirks

The car’s spacious interior provided enough room for passengers, but the cockpit felt a bit cramped for individuals over 6’1″. The red F Sport interior added a sharp touch to the car, and the suede accents on the side pillars were a nice detail. However, some buttons behind the steering wheel needed to be more conveniently placed, making them challenging to reach. The cargo space of the car felt minimal when the third-row seat was up, but once folded down, it revealed a generous storage area. This feature is practical for those trips where luggage space is a must.

Although I was satisfied with the vehicle’s interior, I found the infotainment system to need improvement. The dual-screen configuration felt outdated, and a single, larger screen similar to the Tundra’s would have been a more sophisticated and stylish choice. Additionally, the placement of certain buttons, particularly those located behind the steering wheel, could have been more user-friendly. Considering the price range of this vehicle, I was expecting a more advanced and user-intuitive technology suite. Also, the placement of the mode select position and start button could be improved as they seem reversed, and the shift knob was not as refined as expected for a vehicle of this caliber.

The cool box in the middle console was useful as it kept our drinks cold and refreshing during the journey. However, the side steps are too narrow and proved quite pointless as my fiancé slipped twice while trying to use them. Additionally, the placement of the phone charger was not optimal for modern smartphones, making it a bit inconvenient.

Interior Rating: 7/10

Powerful, but a Dash Expected More.

The 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 engine provided impressive power, but the F Sport version was not as good as the Grand Highlander’s Hybrid Max engine. The acceleration was good, but I expected more power from an F Sport model with 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. While driving, I had the pleasure of experiencing the handling capabilities of the Lexus LX 600 F Sport. It handled with ease and provided a smooth and nimble ride. What stood out to me was its ride height adjustability, allowing easy adaptation to different driving environments. This feature made the vehicle even more versatile and practical. The F Sport Handling model offers a more athletic appearance with its exclusive 22-inch forged alloy wheels and F SPORT tuned suspension. The driving experience is made more exciting with performance upgrades like the Torsen Limited Slip Differential and rear stabilizer.

During longer drives, the Lexus LX 600 F Sport tended to consume more fuel despite being comfortable. While the Eco mode delivered only 16.4 MPG on the highway from Houston to Lake Charles, the rear passengers thoroughly enjoyed the climate control and ventilated seats, making the journey more pleasant. The technology package that came with the vehicle had a wide range of features, including a Head-Up Display and a Panoramic View Monitor. However, the absence of a video rearview mirror in a vehicle that costs so much felt like a missed opportunity.

Performance Rating: 8/10

Verdict

The 2023 Lexus LX 600 F Sport is a luxurious and powerful vehicle that stands out on the road. Despite its high price tag of $108k and a few issues with technology and interior layout, the driving experience is undeniably enjoyable. Whether you’re driving around the city or embarking on a longer journey, the LX 600 F Sport offers a luxurious and performance-oriented experience, making it a strong contender among super luxury SUVs.

Value Rating: 8/10

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Lexus LS 500 F Sport – 2022 Test Drive Review

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2022 Lexus GX460 Black Line – Review

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX Platinum Is On Our Family’s Christmas List

Taking a selfie with the family in the Toyota Grand Highlander

Unleashing the power of the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX Platinum: A Family Adventure.

Get ready for an experience like no other with the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX Platinum. I had the privilege of spending seven days behind the wheel of this SUV, and now I can confidently say that it is a powerhouse perfect for families and a head-turning road warrior. From holiday shopping to carrying 30-gallon bags of toy donations, the vehicle proved versatile and reliable. Let’s talk about what’s important – family.

The Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX Platinum received high praise from our group of six adults for its comfortable ride. Its spacious interior was a hit with everyone, particularly the third row with 33.5 inches of legroom. Getting in and out of the third row was easy; even our 6-foot-tall family members found it very roomy. The SUV’s exterior exudes adventure, but its minivan-inspired interior is cleverly disguised within its robust frame. This crossover combines the best of both worlds.

Interior Delights

Although the interior design was generally well-received, I noticed a few details that could be improved. The cockpit was comfortable, but it had too much plastic for my taste. Comparing it with the Lexus TX, its sibling could be interesting regarding interior quality. The steering wheel adjustment range was limited, which made me readjust my seat to find the perfect driving position. However, the impressive 12.3-inch infotainment display, the stylish design of the middle console, and the remarkable heads-up display made up for these minor shortcomings. The Panoramic View Monitor’s Perimeter Scan made navigating through crowded parking lots an ease. At the same time, the 1,200-watt JBL Audio System with eleven speakers transformed mundane drives into a musical celebration, especially during the holiday season.

There is a symphony of features in this SUV. It has many amenities, such as heated and cooled seats, a three-zone automatic climate control system, retractable window sunshades, and ambient interior lighting. Additionally, it has 13 cup/bottle holders and plenty of power outlets to keep an array of beverages at your reach and keep your phone charged.

Interior Rating: 8.5/10

Exterior Elegance

Externally, the SUV has a sleek design with a sporty edge, highlighted by the perfectly matched STORM CLOUD exterior color and 20-inch alloy wheels. However, I felt that the brown leather interior and the sporty exterior didn’t quite match, leaving me with a desire for a more harmonious color scheme. The SUV’s distinctive front grille features integrated vents, while the hands-free power rear liftgate and sleek LED taillights and headlights contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal. The only minor issue was the lack of a color-matched rear bumper.

Exterior Rating: 9/10

Performance Extravaganza

Get ready for an incredible performance with the Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX Platinum. When in Sport mode, this SUV effortlessly reaches highway speeds, delivering a thrilling driving experience with its 362 horsepower, 400 lb-feet of torque, and hybrid All-Wheel Drive system. With Multi-Terrain Select and Trail Mode on All-Wheel Drive models, this SUV offers improved traction, making it a true all-terrain conqueror. The hybrid engine’s power is truly mind-blowing, and its towing capacity of 5,000 lbs adds practicality to the performance package. Despite my heavy foot, I was impressed by the 27 combined MPG, though my average mileage was 22 MPG.


Performance Rating: 10/10

Verdict

The Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX Platinum boasts a price tag of $59,953.00 and offers a luxurious and functional driving experience. This top-of-the-line version comes with every imaginable feature, making it worth its cost. It’s a spacious SUV perfect for the whole family, especially during the festive season. It is more than just a means of transportation; it’s an exciting journey waiting to be experienced. With high family satisfaction, ample interior space, impressive features, and a powerful performance that takes your breath away, this SUV truly deserves to be the top choice for families. Dear Santa, are you paying attention?

Value Rating: 9/10

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2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro – First Impressions

2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro in the woods camping.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Hybrid 4WD in Exclusive Terra.

When Toyota unveiled the 2024 Sequoia TRD Pro Hybrid 4WD in the stunning Terra color, it was clear that they had created something exceptional. This SUV piqued my curiosity with an $82,000 price tag and promising 20 miles per gallon. After my test drive during the Texas Truck Rodeo, I can confidently say that the Sequoia is a force to be reckoned with.

Exterior:

The Terra color is a head-turner. It adds a bold and rugged edge to the Sequoia’s impressive exterior. This SUV exudes confidence with its large, three-row design, yet surprisingly, it doesn’t feel overwhelmingly massive when you’re behind the wheel. Toyota has balanced its imposing presence with sleek, modern styling, making it an eye-catching vehicle on the road.

Interior:

Stepping inside, the Sequoia welcomes you with an extremely roomy interior. The large infotainment screen commands attention, offering easy access to many features. While the interior is simple and modest, subtle camouflaged touches add a unique flair. The center console is a standout feature, offering ample storage space and convenience. However, it’s not all praise for the interior. Some of the plastics used in the cabin feel disappointingly light and cheap, a surprising contrast to the Sequoia’s hefty price tag. It’s a small blemish on an otherwise well-thought-out interior.

 

Performance:

Under the hood, the Sequoia boasts an impressive i-FORCE MAX powertrain, delivering 437 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft. of torque. On the road, this SUV roars to life with plenty of power to spare. Acceleration is brisk, and highway merging is effortless, all while maintaining a respectable estimated 20-22 combined MPG. One of the highlights of the Sequoia TRD Pro Hybrid is its off-road prowess. With advanced technology that aids in ascending and descending hills, it easily tackles off-road courses. However, it’s worth noting that the Sequoia’s size and weight make it less agile in extreme off-road scenarios. While it can handle rugged terrain, it’s not the nimble off-roader in its class.

Safety and Tech

The Sequoia has safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5, which includes pre-collision systems, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alerts, and more. The blind spot monitor and parking assist systems provide added peace of mind in everyday driving. Toyota has equipped the Sequoia with a host of technological amenities. The panoramic view monitor and backup camera with a projected path make parking a breeze, while the 12.3-inch digital meter offers customizable information at your fingertips. The power windows with one-touch auto up/down and jam protection, a 400W/120V rear seat, and a cargo area AC power outlet add to the SUV’s convenience factor.

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Verdict

In conclusion, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Hybrid 4WD in the exclusive Terra color is an exciting addition to the SUV market. Its striking appearance, powerful engine, and impressive off-road capabilities make it a strong contender in the segment. However, the interior materials could use an upgrade to match its premium price tag. The Sequoia is worth considering if you’re in the market for a capable and eye-catching full-size SUV.

2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro

Exterior – 8/10

Interior – 8/10

Performance – 9/10

Value – 8/10

Overall Grade – 8.5/10

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2024 Toyota Grand Highlander – Test Drive Review

Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum is a fusion of performance, luxury, and family-friendly features.

I recently had the opportunity to test drive the all-new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum, which left quite an impression on me. This family-friendly three-row SUV boasts impressive performance, a stunning exterior design, a luxurious interior, and a hybrid engine that stands out. Let’s dive into the highlights, making this car a remarkable choice for long and short family trips. The 2024 Grand Highlander catches your attention from the moment you see it. The unique front grille with integrated vents gives the vehicle an aggressive yet sophisticated look. The 20-inch alloy wheel, sleek LED taillights, and headlights contribute to its modern and dynamic appearance. The panoramic moonroof adds a touch of openness to the cabin, enhancing the overall experience for both drivers and passengers.

Luxurious and Aesthetically Pleasing Interior

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a well-designed interior that oozes luxury and comfort. The spaciousness of the third row, with an impressive 33.5 inches of legroom, ensures that even adults can sit comfortably. The available 60/40 second-row bench seating and 60/40 third-row fold-flat functionality make configuring the interior a breeze, allowing for flexible cargo and seating arrangements. Heated front seats and an available heated steering wheel are perfect for chilly mornings. At the same time, the second-row retractable window sunshades and three-zone automatic climate control contribute to a serene and comfortable atmosphere for all passengers. The ambient lighting sets the mood, creating a pleasant ambiance during night drives. With abundant cup holders and power outlets, the Grand Highlander ensures convenience for all occupants.

 

Hybrid Performance Excellence

The Hybrid MAX option delivers a robust 362 net horsepower and an EPA-estimated 27 combined MPG for those seeking even more performance. Integrating three distinct driving modes (Sport Mode, Eco Mode, Normal Mode) allows drivers to tailor their driving experience to their preferences. Multi-Terrain Select or Trail Mode, available on all-wheel-drive models, enhances traction across various road conditions.

Unparalleled Safety and Cutting-Edge Technology

The 2024 Grand Highlander strongly emphasizes safety, thanks to the standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite. Features like a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Lane Tracing Assist contribute to elevated driving confidence. Automatic High Beams and Proactive Driving Assist further enhance the safety net. The tech features in the Grand Highlander are equally impressive. The 12.3-inch touchscreen with Toyota Audio Multimedia offers intuitive controls and access to features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, streamlining connectivity. The Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging eliminates the hassle of cords while keeping your devices charged. And if you’re an audiophile, the 1,200-watt JBL Audio System with eleven speakers promises a phenomenal sound experience.

Verdict

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is a standout three-row SUV at a $60K price point. It ticks all the boxes for families seeking performance, luxury, safety, and technology. Its hybrid engine sets a new standard for efficiency and power, making it an ideal choice for short daily drives and long family road trips. The sharp exterior design and thoughtfully designed interior ensure that you’ll be riding in style, while the array of features, from safety to entertainment, provide a truly exceptional driving experience. Toyota has succeeded in creating a family-friendly vehicle and a pleasure to drive.

2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum

Exterior – 8.5/10

Interior – 8.5/10

Performance – 9/10

Value – 10/10

Overall Grade – 9/10

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2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve Is Unparalleled Performance and Luxury

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is better than ever.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has long been regarded as one of the most iconic SUVs in the automotive industry. With its combination of legendary 4×4 capability, refined on-road performance, and premium features, it has garnered numerous awards and accolades over the years. Now, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve takes this legacy to new heights by offering exceptional performance, comfort, functionality, and a touch of luxury. The SUV has a noteworthy feature. It is built using a global unibody vehicle architecture. It also has three rows of seats and can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. The cabin has individual climate zones for each occupant, making the journey enjoyable for everyone on board. The interior of this vehicle is stunningly comfortable and luxurious, with plush materials and advanced technology. No matter where you sit, you can expect to enjoy an incredibly comfortable ride.

Jeep has also introduced several new features and options for 2023.

The SUV offers advanced driver-assist systems, 360-degree surround view and night vision cameras, and an L2 driver-assist system with hands-on automated driving. The available 10-inch digital screens, Uconnect 5 system, windshield Head-up Display (HUD), digital rearview mirror, and rear-seat monitoring camera. The Summit Reserve model also boasts an exclusive premium 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, ensuring exceptional audio quality for all occupants.

Jeep vehicles provide authentic off-road capabilities.

It has three 4×4 systems that improve traction and an active transfer case for better performance. It’s perfect for rough terrains with a ground clearance of 10.9 inches and the ability to navigate through water up to 24 inches deep. The Jeep Selec-Terrain switch offers five modes to optimize performance, and the Overland and Summit models have Hill-descent Control for better control on steep inclines.

Two engine options are offered on the 2023 model.

Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6
5.7-liter V-8

Our test model came with the standard 3.6-liter V6 Pentastar engine. The engine generates up to 290 horsepower and 257 lb.-ft. of torque. At the $77,000 price point, I would have expected the 5.7-liter V8 engine, which offers 357 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. Both engines have a reliable TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and improved fuel efficiency. However, what holds this model back is the undersized engine for the yacht on wheels, which is nearing almost $80k.

Verdict

As the SUV pulled into the driveway, I was struck by its mesmerizing Hydro Blue Pearl exterior. But, upon seeing the stunning interior, I realized that a different paint job would have been more complimentary, despite my love for blue. This Summit Reserve SUV offers luxurious options and features. Everything inside is on par with the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, making it a great choice for families. Despite feeling perky at times, this model’s steep MSRP had me expecting a beefier engine. I’m also concerned about its MPG, as I only got a combined 16.5 miles per gallon with a V6, but that may be due to my heavier foot. However, the SUV does offer a comfortable ride, a spacious cabin, and numerous luxury features, all in an attractive-looking SUV.

2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit Reserve Rating 

Exterior – 8/10

Interior – 10/10

Performance -7/10

Value – 7/10

Overall Grade – 8

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Jeep Grand Wagoneer (Series II Obsidian) – 2022 Test Drive Review

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer makes road trips effortless.

The good folks at Stellantis once again got me behind the wheel of their impressive Jeep Grand Wagoneer. This time it was Series II Obsidian model. I have been around this car a dozen times, which still amazes me. The Grand Wagoneer was my mode of transportation from Houston to Austin, where I covered the Fantastic Flim festival for my site Nerdtropolis. I knew this luxury SUV would provide an excellent and comfortable experience for my weekend journey.

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Exterior

Many have argued that the Grand Wagoner has a lackluster exterior design. I beg to differ, as this SUV has distinct styling cues and is filled with brilliant easter eggs if you look closely enough. The Obsidian appearance package is my favorite color combo on the Grand Wagoneer. It provides a Bight White exterior color matched with Piano Black accents all over the SUV, from the wheels to the seven-slot grille to the window trim and roof.

Exterior Rating: 8/10

Interior

Many interior elements pay tribute to the Grand Wagoneer’s long history and feature high-end craftsmanship and added upscale materials. The interior design is elegant and modern, from the door panels to the dash and center console. Seating 7, every passenger will be pampered with comfort, tech, and entertainment. The front passenger gets their own screen, and two more touchscreens are mounted onto the headrests for your rear passengers. One of my favorite features is the McIntosh Entertainment System, which provides crisp and excellent sound. Additionally, the center console mini fridge is a great and convenient addition. To top off, the luxury experience is the massaging seats with over a dozen settings.

Interior Rating: 10/10

Performance

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer has a standard 6.4-liter V8 delivering 471 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque with the help of an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite weighing over 6,300 pounds, the SUV can move quickly, especially when you need to pass on the highways. This SUV has an exceptionally smooth ride and offers excellent handling despite its extra large size. Navigating this yacht on wheels is a breeze, especially on the highway. Just recently, Jeep introduced the successor to this engine for 2023. It is a 510-hp twin-turbocharged inline-six called the Hurricane engine, and I have heard great things about it already. One is better MPG, as I was getting 14 miles per gallon on my trip, and this engine needed premium gas which can make a dent in your wallet.

This SUV has a 10,000-pound maximum towing capacity, three available four-wheel-drive systems, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. The air suspension has multiple ride heights, allowing easy access into the SUV by lowering it by a half-inch and making it over obstacles with its 10 inches of ground clearance after raising the ride height to 3.6 inches. The Grand Wagoneer has safety features such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Active Lane Management, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear park assist sensors, Rear Cross Path detection, Active Driving Assist, and Night Vision.

Performance Rating: 9/10

2022 Grand Wagoneer Verdict

The Grand Wagoneer aims to compete against premium and luxury full-size SUVs like the GMC Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade. It is the ultimate ultra-luxury SUV for large families that like to travel short and long distances. The Grand Wagoneer offers best-in-class overall passenger volume, best-in-class third-row head and legroom, and the most cargo volume behind the third row. The MSRP for the model tested above is $112,475.

I look forward to the future Grand Wagoneers, such as the newly introduced L, providing more cargo space.

Overall Rating: 9/10

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2022 Lexus GX460 Black Line – Review

The Lexus GX 460 is a remarkable platform longing for renewal.

The 2022 Lexus GX460 Black Line is a testament to the adage, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” While the model may be overdue for a restyle, particularly on the inside, it compensates with its commendable performance and suitability for road trips. Sporting a 12-year-old chassis, the GX460 might appear a tad outdated, yet it manages to carve its niche as a rugged, upscale, and capable SUV. Under the hood, the GX460 roars with a 4.6-liter V-8 engine that delivers a hearty 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain’s brawn translates into confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising, making it a prime choice for long-haul journeys. Its prowess extends to off-road escapades, as the GX handles diverse terrains with impressive dexterity.

Externally, the GX460 Black Line exudes a striking charisma with its black-themed exterior.

However, while the dark aesthetic adds a touch of elegance, there might be better choices for the scorching Texas heat. A design decision that prioritizes style over practicality, potentially requiring frequent cooling measures in warmer climates. Though lagging behind contemporary trends, the interior impresses. Seating up to seven passengers, the GX460 boasts impeccable craftsmanship, emphasizing luxury and ruggedness.

However, the interior’s age becomes evident, making a strong case for a revamp.

The introduction of a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system compensates for this deficiency. While not the largest in its class, this upgrade marks a significant improvement over the outdated system that plagued previous models. Dynamic versatility is the hallmark of the GX460. Its three-row configuration accommodates passengers easily and maintains a robust 4×4 capability to tackle city streets and treacherous terrains. This makes it an attractive proposition for families seeking adventure without compromising comfort.

2022 Lexus GX Rating

Exterior – 8.5/10

Interior – 8.5/10

Performance – 8/10

Value – 9/10

Overall Grade – 8.5/10

Verdict

Despite its aging platform, the 2022 Lexus GX460 Black Line is a formidable contender. Its blend of raw power, off-road capability, and refined craftsmanship make it a worthy road trip companion. While it may be overdue for a design overhaul, its unique blend of style and ruggedness holds an enduring appeal. Just be mindful of its black-on-black aesthetic under the blazing Texas sun.

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