What's On

Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Quick-take 2018-2019

Alfa Romeo Stelvio at 2016 LA Auto Show.jpg

Alfa Romeo Stelvio

Likes: The standard turbo-four cylinder offers plenty flexibility and decent running costs, while top of the range Quadrifoglio has an insane 505hp Ferrari tuned engine.

Dislikes: The electronic gear-selector is downright annoying. Build quality of the interior is questionable.

Overall: It drives as good as it looks and the price looks even better.



Nissan Versa Note

Likes: Much improved exterior styling. Entry-level versions are still cheap and frugal.

Dislikes: It all falls apart (refinement) on faster paced roads.

Overall: It's best left for city duties and light highway affairs. It's roomy, decently kitted and doesn't feel like a penalty box compared to a Mitsubishi Mirage.

Kia Stinger IMG 0297.jpg

Kia Stinger

Likes: The first Kia we found to be enjoyable to be in. Styling is aggressive and sleek while the interior is a much improvement over what we've seen from Kia.

Dislikes: The badge snobs won't appreciate the good value the Stinger presents.

Overall: This is the halo car Kia needed.

Buick Regal (Opel Insignia).jpg

Buick Regal

Likes: Exterior styling is sleek while the interior is much improved over previous generation. The turbo four-cylinder is smooth.

Dislikes: Top of the range trims cost how much?

Overall: It's still a Buick and that's a good thing.

 Toyota CAMRY G"Leather Package" (DAA-AXVH70-AEXNB) front.jpg

Toyota Camry

Likes: The most driver focused Camry we've ever seen. Top of the range six-cylinder engine has 300hp! Daring exterior design is a leap forward for Toyota.

Dislikes: Dizzying number of trim levels to choose from.

Overall: It's not as stunning as the Honda Accord but at least it's no longer Toyota dull.

2017 Jeep Cherokee (KL MY17) Limited wagon (2017-12-09) 01.jpg

Jeep Cherokee

Likes: It's rugged looking and has the capabilities to match. Interior offers plenty of space for five and the standard kit list is pretty generous too.

Dislikes: The transmission has suffered reliability issues.

Overall: For 2019 there will be a styling update if you fancy one. Also, there will be a 2-liter turbo engine option as well.

2017 Ford Edge (1).jpg

Ford Edge

Likes: Smooth range of engines to choose from. It's stylish both on the outside and inside.

Dislikes: The 3.5 V6 will not live on for 2019.

Overall: The 2019 Edge will get a ST trim with the only six-cylinder of the Edge range. The rest will get a 2-liter turbo engine.

'18 Chevrolet Equinox.jpg

Chevy Equinox

Likes: Styling has dramatically improved over the previous generation. It feels lighter on its toes and the 1.5 turbo engine is our pick as it offers decent running costs and decent flexibility.

Dislikes: The expensive trim levels feel overpriced. The interior looks like a hand-me-down frenzy.

Overall: The diesel engine maybe the hero of the range.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S550 (US) lwb.jpg

Likes: It's the car that lets everyone know you're all that and the bag of chips. Interior is what you'd expect a Benz to be. Fit and finish are top notch.

Dislikes: Infotainment system has a learning curve. Reliability and resale value aren't it's strongest points.

Overall: The second hand market has some that are dirt cheap. However, be wary of repair bills. Don't buy one without some form of warranty coverage for electronics and mechanical bits. 

2017 Porsche Macan S-A 3.0.jpg

Porsche Macan

Likes: It's sporty looking on the outside and classy on the inside. It has an attractive starting price.

Dislikes: It's an Audi Q5 with a price tag of a Porsche.

Overall: The Porsche is the way to go if driving experience is top priority.

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