The 'rock star' lifestyle (we poke fun at lyrics)

Fair use (in US copyright law) the doctrine that brief excerpts of copyright material may, under certain circumstances, be quoted verbatim for purposes such as criticism, news reporting, teaching, and research, without the need for permission from or payment to the copyright holder.

Post Malone "Rock Star" 

Ayy, I've been fuckin' hoes and poppin' pillies

(The ‘rock star’ life is having tons of sex and doing tons of drugs?)

Man, I feel just like a rockstar (star)

(Writing good music, having a loyal fan base is just bullshit in comparison.)

Ayy, ayy, all my brothers got that gas

And they always be smokin' like a Rasta

(Constantly being high, not remembering anything and just sleeping with random ‘hoes’. The ‘rock star’ life is pretty awful when you really think about it.)

Fuckin' with me, call up on a Uzi

And show up, man them the shottas

(Do you ‘English’? Secondly, overreact much? You can handle any situation without resulting in violence. Why do people feel the need to brag about how ‘tough’ they are in songs?)

When my homies pull up on your block

They make that thing go grrra-ta-ta-ta (pow, pow, pow)

(And the police will pull up like Wee ooh wee ooh wee.)

Ayy, ayy, switch my whip, came back in black

(I traded in my new Mercedes for another new Mercedes because why not?)

I'm startin' sayin', "Rest in peace to Bon Scott"

(FYI: Ben Scott died of alcohol intoxication.)

Ayy, close that door, we blowin' smoke

(Nope, open that shit up. It’s getting way too stuffy in here.)

She ask me light a fire like I'm Morrison

(The Doors are way too cool for you to reference here.)

Ayy, act a fool on stage

(You act a fool on stage, off stage. The real question is when are you going to act goddamn civil for once?)

Prolly leave my fuckin' show in a cop car

(I would, the moment you start acting a ‘fool’ is my que to leave.)

Ayy, shit was legendary

(Acting a ‘fool’ and showing up in cop cars is not legendary, it’s just stupid man!)

Threw a TV out the window of the Montage

(Why would you do this? I get living the ‘rock star’ life is about living fast and wreck-less. But at some point we all have to grow up and act responsible.)

Cocaine on the table, liquor pourin', don't give a damn

(Nope, and throwing TVs out the window and acting a ‘fool’ because ‘rock star’.)

Dude, your girlfriend is a groupie, she just tryna get in

(So, you’re basically saying his girlfriend is a ‘hoe’ that you want to sleep with?)

Sayin', "I'm with the band"

(Anyone will say anything for ‘fame’.)  

Ayy, ayy, now she actin' outta pocket

(Nope, she’s just acting like you to ‘fit’ in.)

Tryna grab up from my pants

(So, she’s trying to use you to get what she wants?)

Hundred bitches in my trailer say they ain't got a man

(Well, if they had a man they wouldn’t be in a trailer ‘with you’ is all I’m saying.)

And they all brought a friend

(No ‘good’ friend would bring someone to an event like this.)

Yeah, ayy

(Shut up!)

Ayy, I've been fuckin' hoes and poppin' pillies

Man, I feel just like a rockstar (star)

Ayy, ayy, all my brothers got that gas

And they always be smokin' like a Rasta

Fuckin' with me, call up on a Uzi

And show up, man them the shottas

When my homies pull up on your block

They make that thing go grrra-ta-ta-ta (pow, pow, pow)

(You should feel like a dumb ass. I see nothing appealing about the ‘rock star lifestyle’. It’s just being stupid, wreck-less and completely irresponsible to one’s self and everyone around you.)

I've been in the Hills fuckin' superstars

(You’re calling other people ‘hoes’?)

Feelin' like a pop star (21, 21, 21)

(Why is it so appealing to live a wreck-less life, with no regard to one’s self?)

Drankin' Henny, bad bitches jumpin' in the pool

(Drinking alcohol and swimming don’t mix well at all.)

And they ain't got on no bra

(No bra, getting drunk and swimming? I can’t possibly see this won’t end well?)

Hit her from the back, pullin' on her tracks

(You’re having sex, drinking and swimming? There’s way too much going on here.)

And now she screamin' out, "no más" (yeah, yeah, yeah)

(That doesn’t sound appealing in any way shape or form.)

They like, "Savage, why you got a 12 car garage

And you only got 6 cars?" (21)

(Yeah, why do you have a twelve car garage? I honestly don’t really care but, please muse me with your response.)

I ain't with the cakin', how you kiss that? (kiss that?)

(What in the fuck does this even mean? Also, what the fuck does this have to do with the previous question?)

Your wifey say I'm lookin' like a whole snack (big snack)

(You’re fat shaming her? She looks like a ‘big snack’? Who says that?)

Green hundreds in my safe, I got old racks (old racks)

(You won’t have shit in the bank by the time you turn forty. Wait, that was too generous. I’ll give you till thrity-five.)

L.A. bitches always askin' where the coke at

(Yeah, ‘bitches’ that do ‘coke’ will certainly ask that question.)

Livin' like a rockstar, smash out on a cop car

(You’ll be arriving at jail like Wee ooh wee ooh wee.)

Sweeter than a Pop-Tart, you know you are not hard

(So, doing drugs and acting like dumb ass makes you look tougher?)

I done made the hot chart, 'member I used to trap hard

(I can’t imagine anyone finding this song appeasing to listen to.)

Livin' like a rockstar, I'm livin' like a rockstar

Ayy, I've been fuckin' hoes and poppin' pillies

Man, I feel just like a rockstar (star)

Ayy, ayy, all my brothers got that gas

And they always be smokin' like a Rasta

Fuckin' with me, call up on a Uzi

And show up, man them the shottas

When my homies pull up on your block

They make that thing go grrra-ta-ta-ta (pow, pow, pow)

(It took six people to write this song, let that sink in for a second.)  

Overall: Don’t do drugs! 

Devon test drives a budget Mitsubishi (Used)

Mitsubishi has been on a rocky roller coaster here in the U.S. Many have thought the company would finally disappear like Suzuki did last year. Little did anyone ever think that Mitsubishi still had some fight within the company. They've recently released the new Outlander and are also working on the next the generation Lancer. So it was no surprise that Mitsubishi offered the Mirage here in the U.S. as a volume seller to bring more traffic into their showrooms. It's a cheeky small car that goes toe to toe with the Chevy Spark and Scion IQ. It's a cheap small car with plenty of luxury features to choose from. Is this enough to bring buyers back to the ailing brand? Or is it all just a lost cause?

Performance: The Mirage only comes with one engine and that's a 1.2-liter three-cylinder which produces 74hp. Around town the Mirage feels zippy and light which is what most Mirage owners will use this vehicle for. Take the Mirage outside of the city and you'll have to work the engine hard to get any kind of pace out of it. The standard five-speed manual makes the most of what the engine has to offer. The CVT feels like it saps what little power the engine has and often leaves you cold until the revs build up again.

On the road: The Mirage soft suspension allows it to soak up bumps and some road imperfections. However the car tends to thump over potholes and there's way too much body roll in corners. Steering is light and easy around town while at higher speeds it becomes vague and numb feeling. Part of the whole appeal of the Mirage is the distinct thrum that comes from the three-cylinder engine when you rev it hard. At times it becomes loud and never really settles at highway speeds. This makes long journeys in the Mirage longer and more tiresome than we'd like. The manual gearbox is slick shifting. Wind and road noise will be welcome companions on the highway.

Behind the wheel:  The dashboard has a simple layout. Everything is easy to navigate and easy to use. Drivers will however have a hard time getting comfortable. The steering wheel doesn't adjust for reach and you can only adjust the angle of the seat base not the height. Visibility is so-so thanks to thick side pillars and a small rear windscreen. There's enough space for four inside the cabin. A fifth person would be pushing it. The rear seat is really only designed for two passengers. Boot space isn't great but offers enough for a week's worth of shopping for one. The high load lip makes loading heavy items a little tedious.

Equipment: The Mirage comes standard with power door locks and side view mirrors. A remote keyless entry system comes standard and a rear spoiler. You'll have to step up to the top of the range to get alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity and keyless start system. Optional on the top of the range is navigation system, LED illumination package and unique exterior package.

Buying & owning: We aren't really sure if the Mirage offers a convincing case when you look at the Scion IQ and Chevy Spark. The Mirage is obviously a cheap car but it doesn't really scream value when you compare it to its keen rivals. Running costs will be low while resale value is unknown at this time.

Quality & Safety: The Mirage is a budget car and there's no hiding that fact when you sit inside. It's a shame because the Chevy Spark feels a tad bit higher in interior quality along with the Scion IQ.  The plastics used in the interior feel sturdy and long lasting. They don't really look all that eye appealing. Reliability should be average as with most Mitsubishi products. All Mirage vehicles come with stability control and brake assist to help keep you out of harm's way. Side curtain airbags are fitted as standard too in the event of an accident. Security isn't great but you get an immobilizer.

City cars are supposed to be cheap but also offer some kind of redeeming feature to them. Both the Chevy Spark and Scion IQ offer more of an engaging driving experience around town and can hold its own ground on the highway. The Mirage can do the same but it doesn't feel exciting to drive. There's too much body roll and the steering feels almost nonexistent at higher speeds. Wind and road noise enter the cabin at high levels and the overall packaging of the Mirage is rather disappointing. It's not the best city car you can buy but it does offer decent running cost and the price tag is well justifiable. Sadly this won't be the hallow car Mitsubishi desperately needs.  

Likes: Low running costs. Low price of entry. Easy to drive around town with roomy interior for four.

Dislikes: City cars should be fun to drive and sadly this one is not. Wind and road noise at highway speeds. Steering and handling become sloppy beyond city limits. CVT transmission should be avoided at all cost.

Devon's Pick:  Mirage DE MT is the pick of the range. It's the cheapest and offers the best value overall. You get all the features that you'll ever really need in a budget car and with the five-speed manual gearbox you'll be able to really make the most of what the tiny engine has to offer. The ES trim offers a few extra bits but takes the value factor away. It pushes the price to closer to roomier and much better rivals.  



We sit in them/ test-drive and critique

Ford Eco-Sport

Likes: A very handsome little sibling to the Escape. It has decent starting price and running costs.

Dislikes: It's not even close to 'sporty'. The ecoboost three-cylinder is a false economy; you can't access the boot if you park in tight parking spaces.

Overall: We aren't fans of it but rental car companies will be.



Subaru Ascent

Likes: The roomiest Subaru since the Tribeca. Turbo engine spools nicely and it's very comfortable and easy to live with.

Dislikes: CVT drone at higher speeds.

Overall: A three-row crossover that Subaru Loyalists have been begging for.



Buick Cascada

Likes: It's a Buick convertible that's quite chic in style. It's about looking good and it does that quite well. It's not a crossover.

Dislikes: The dashboard is overloaded with buttons.

Overall: It might not be quick but it's stylish, affordable and has low running costs.



Tesla Model 3

Likes: The styling inside out is very futuristic. It's very quick when you put your foot down, but easy to live with when you drive 'normally'. It's spacious for a sedan too.

Dislikes: The single infotainment screen for 'everything' takes some getting used to. The price you have to pay for better quality materials in the cabin.

Overall: We certainly want to see what a Model 3 stripped down no options gets you.

Devon tries to see if the Nissan Versa Note is a note worth playing (Used)

Don’t like the classy and well regarded Honda Fit. The Nissan Versa Note will tick all the right buttons; but does it hit all the right notes?

The sole engine on hand is a 1.6 which is pretty much all you’ll ever really need with the Versa. It does offer decent flexibility around town and you may find yourself thrashing the engine on the highway to keep up with faster paced traffic.  Running costs are actually quite good which does help justify the small amount of power the engine produces.

Drive it the way it was intended to be driven and you’ll find yourself in a very comfortable small car. Push it into a corner or bend and you’ll be quickly reminded that this is an economy car. Handling isn’t bad but there is way too much body roll and this is all due to the suspension being set more towards comfort than agility. Plus the steering feedback is just okay. You may want to take a look at the Ford Fiesta if you want a fun to drive small car. Refinement is good but it isn’t as great as the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit.

The driver’s seat does offer plenty of adjustments but the steering wheel only adjusts for height. There is plenty of space for four passengers and the interior feels pretty airy for such a small car. The boot space is decent too but with the seats folded down it’s even more spacious.

The saying goes you get what you pay for and the Versa Note is no exception. Standard S trim comes with air-con, cd-player and Bluetooth for your mobile phone. Sadly this is also the only trim that offers a five-speed manual gearbox. S-Plus trim adds CVT transmission, active grille shutters and dual power outside mirrors. You’ll have to step up to SV trim to get power windows and keyless entry as well as cruise control and USB connection for you iPod. SR trim adds alloy wheels, body-kit and unique interior trim. SL trim adds aluminum alloy wheels, keyless start and class-executive around view monitor.

The saving grace for the Versa Note is that it is cheap to buy and cheap to run. It may not hold its value as well as the Honda Fit, but for those that shop with their wallets won’t mind the somewhat average depreciation of the Versa Note and discounts will not be hard to come by. The interior isn’t anything to brag about but the materials feel very sturdy and long lasting. Plus Nissan consistently scores well in reliability.

All Versa Notes come with six-airbags, traction control and electronic stability program as well as anti-lock brakes and tire pressure monitoring system. Sadly not all versions get an immobilizer system to guard against theft.

The Nissan Versa Note is a great car for those who are on a budget and need a reliable and sensible car. It may not be as flexible as the Ford Fiesta or Honda Fit but it does the job well. Too bad you’ll have to pay for the options you’ll see standard on its rivals and it really doesn’t seem that much of a value either when you look at its standard kit. But for the price and the money you’ll save the Versa Note is a decent choice but not the best.

Devon’s Pick: SV trim adds comfort features such as power windows, keyless entry and cruise control. Buyers who want a manual gearbox are sadly stuck picking the very basically equipped S trim. But at least it offers Bluetooth which is rare in this price segment.

Likes: Overall it’s a decent car with low asking price and low running costs. The interior and boot space are both generous. A commuter car or workhorse this it really does tick the right buttons.

Dislikes: Keyless entry and power windows aren’t standard on all trims and not all trims get a manual gearbox option. SR trim has the looks but lacks the oomph; it doesn’t hit the right notes in refinement and SL trim is pricey for what it is.

[Updated] Volvo XC90 (All engines test driven)

The new Volvo XC90 is the best of the best when it comes to luxury 4x4s. The Swedes really are back in town.

Volvo has added several new engine choices since the launch of the new XC90. T5 trim gets a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pumping out 250hp. T6 trim gets the same 2-liter engine but a turbocharged and supercharged layout pumping out 315hp. While the range topping T8 Hybrid gets the same 2-liter turbocharged & supercharged layout but boosts output to 400hp. Pick of the range still remains with the T6 which we think is the best way to go with the XC90. The entry T5 is okay but it just doesn’t feel as refined as it should be and the T8 Hybrid is more on the steep side of the pricing, which does pay for itself in standard kit and low running costs.

Our tester car came equipped with air suspension and 20-inch alloys and the ride quality is actually good. Large bumps won’t even send shutters into the cabin. Handling is okay it won’t defy logic like a BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne but it holds its own well. Steering is smooth and offers excellent feedback. Refinement is good in the XC90, when at relaxed speeds you can barely hear a peep out of the engine and road noise is virtually unheard of. There is a bit of wind noise around the side mirrors but it’s far from intrusive or annoying.

Volvo has the best seats in the auto industry hands down. These seats provide enough comfort for drivers of all sizes. The infotainment system is actually quite easy to use and of course you get a full nine-inch display which adds a bit of class to the overall look and feel. All the controls are within easy reach and your view forwards and backwards is good. Boot space is okay with the third row seat in place. Fold the third row seat down and you’ve got even more space, fold down both rows and you have so much space that you would need a transit van if you find the space lacking.

The third row seat is actually quite roomy for adults, even though most will only tolerate it for short journeys. The second row space is generous too, in fact this is one of the few seven-seat 4x4s we’ve ever driven where the balance between utility and people carrier is so good that we have to give it a standing ovation.

Momentum trim comes with Full-LED headlights, navigation system, panoramic sunroof and collision mitigation support for the front. R-design adds 20-inch alloys, R-design design ques. Inscription trim adds ventilated leather seats, linear walnut wood inlays, 12.3 digital instrument display. Range toping Excellence adds Bowers & Wilkins Premium Sound System, beverage cooler/refrigerator and high-spec ventilation and massage function for front and rear seats.

We challenge you to find a BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne with the same equipment for similar money and what you’ll find is all the reasons why the XC90 is the better buy. It may not have the resale value of both brands yet but this XC90 looks promising and we do predict that the value will hold very well. Running costs are similar to that of the BMW and Porsche and even though Volvo doesn’t offer a diesel engine it does however offer a plug-in hybrid option which makes it one of the of the cleanest seven-seat crossovers behind the Tesla Model-X.

Interior quality is superb and many of the plastics feel classy and upmarket; a far departure from the previous generation. Volvo has scored above-average in reliability and we do see this being a new trend for years to come. If Volvo had a middle name it would be safety and everything that you could ever possibly want in terms of safety kit Volvo has it. The most notable of these systems is the city braking which works at speeds up to 30mph, by slowing you down and bring you to a complete stop if the driver so happens to take his or her eyes off the road.

When you think of luxury 4x4s most will venture to the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne because well both are good in their own right. However, the XC90 is better than both in its own way. It may not be as sharp to drive or defy logic, but it is a comfortable cruiser with an outstanding interior and can really fit seven people aboard. Plus it is one of the most handsome looking 4x4s we have ever seen in a while. Volvo really did tick all the right buttons and play all the right notes with the new XC90. Hopefully the new looks and well equipped trim-levels will lure buyers in because passing one up without giving it a real gander is a real shame because this 4x4 is a gem.

Devon’s pick: T6 AWD R-design is where our money would go. It feels like you get a lot of car for your money and still somehow you undercut the X5 and you’re still way below what you would have to pay if you picked the Cayenne. It’s classy and stylish plus we just love those LED headlights.

Like: The XC90 is the most handsome 4x4 in the segment and that style carries inside too. Infotainment system is easy to use and those seats are the best. It can really fit seven people aboard and somehow manages to undercut the heavy hitters in kit and price.

Dislikes: The auto gearbox is a little sluggish to react. The T5 engine isn’t as refined as it should be.

T5 (Despite it being the cheapest of the range, the engine isn’t that refined. We certainly wish that Volvo aimed to make the best four-cylinders they possibly could. Despite that only gripe, it really is a good choice if you have your heart set out on a Volvo but can’t justify the T6.)

T6 (This is the best engine choice of the range. It offers the flexibility you’d desire and the running costs aren’t too much more than the T5. You get the standard features that make it a worthy contender against the X5 and Q7.)

T8 (We’ve finally had the opportunity to test drive this and well this is the crème de la crème of the range. The massive amount of torque at low revs helps make it feel more responsive than the T6 and you can also drive it on electric mode alone and up to 60mph. You’d think that this wasn’t worth it because the price tag is high, but looking at the keen rivals from Audi and BMW. Volvo pretty much justifies itself. It’s not our pick of the range but it certainly isn’t one you should ignore.)

[Look back] review of Saab 9-3 sedan

Likes: Strong turbo engine, comfortable front seats, Swedish design inside out, smooth transmissions.

Dislikes: Choppy ride, can get expensive at the top of the line, more horsepower would be nice.

Saabs have always been quirky left field vehicles for those who choose to stand out in a crowd. They pride themselves in safety and their aircraft heritage. With distinct styling and quirky interior design, can the 9-3 bring a special offering to the competition?

Performance: There's only one engine available for the Saab 9-3, and that's a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 210hp. There's plenty of pace for both city and motorway driving. You may desire more power however, with the optional all-wheel-drive system which adds extra weight. The engine never feels underpowered, but many rivals offer more power for the same price.

Ride & Handling: The 9-3 isn't the sharpest handling vehicle in its class. But it does hang on to corners well. The steering often feels dull at times, but its nothing to discourage sporty driving. The 9-3 is fun to drive, but ride never feels settled on rough surfaces.

Refinement: The interior can hush out a reasonable amount of road and wind noise. Models with the sport suspension let in more noise than lesser versions, but it's not too intrusive. At motorway speeds, the 9-3 feels very comfortable and relaxed.

Behind the wheel: The driver's environment is superb thanks to comfortable seats, and a no-nonsense dash layout. There's plenty of adjustment in seat and steering wheel. You'll easily find a driving position that suits you best. The instruments are a paragon of clarity.

Space & Practicality: There's plenty of space in the rear for three passengers. Good headroom and decent legroom, although shoulder room is a bit tight. The large boot can hold plenty of luggage, and the rear seat folds 60/40.

Equipment: No matter which trim you choose, all 9-3's come well equipped for the money. You get premium sound system, automatic climate control and rain sensing windshield wipers all come as standard. The range topping Aero trim adds Xenon Headlamps, sporty exterior trim and twin exhaust pipes.

Buying & Owning: The 9-3 is aimed at German rivals. So you get more power and more equipment for far less cash than many German Saloons. The engine is fairly fuel efficient and offers good performance. Resale value isn't the strongest in its class. However, most Saab owners tend to keep their vehicles longer than German rivals.

Quality & Reliability: The 9-3 has improved over the years in terms of reliability. The cabin materials don't look classy, but they have a long lasting feel. JD Power surveys has rated the 9-3 below average in terms of reliability by its owners.

Safety & Security: When it comes to safety, Saab is class leading. There's front and side curtian airbags standard. Anti-whiplash head restraints are also standard. ESP traction control is standard across the range. The 9-3 has an excellent reputation for keeping theives out.

The 9-3 is a distinct sedan with so much personality. There are German rivals that can out class the 9-3, but you'll be missing the point. It's designed for those who don't want a typical German Saloon. A vehicle that stands out where ever it goes, and whenever a owner talks about their Saab they always seem to have a smile on their face. It's not the classiest sedan among rivals, but it sure does offer a huge bang for your buck.

Devon does tribute to 9-3 Viggen

The 9-3 Viggen was the hottest and fastest 9-3 you could buy in Saab's line-up. It started off with a 2.3-liter high-output turbocharged four-cylinder which pumped out 225hp and 252lb-ft torque. Later it was pumped up to 230hp and 258lb-ft torque. This was one of the last of the Saab vehicles that really did leave a special place in my heart.

On the road: The 9-3 Viggen I was able to get my hands on had a 2.3-liter high-output turbocharged four-cylinder producing 230hp and 258lb-ft torque. All this power was sent through a five-speed manual that was slick shifting at times. The engine felt smooth and urgent when you put your foot down, but often times you'll want to grab the steering wheel with both hands. The front wheels felt like they were searching for traction and the chassis often felt overwhelmed by the amount of power the engine produced. This sent a huge amount of torque steer to the front wheels before the ESP kicked in and helped keep things under control. If the 9-3 Viggen would've been a rear wheel drive car, the torque steer would've been to a minimal. But then again its all part of the charm. It's one of those cars you can just take to a race track and have a hoot with, and drive it home and feel comfortable. The suspension was firm but not overly firm where it left you feeling beat up after driving a few miles on patchy surfaces.

From behind the wheel: Everything in the 9-3 cabin feels logically laid out. All the controls are easy to navigate and everything is within reach of the driver's hand. The instrumental panel and the way its designed has a sort of cockpit feel to it. The ignition switch is tucked away neatly between the front seats as well as the power window switches and power door lock switch. It was one of those designs you either hated or loved. Most people loved it because it really did make Saab different from other cars.

Practicality: One of the best things about the 9-3 Viggen is the amounts of space and practicality it offered. There is plenty of cargo space in the boot, and the rear seats can accommodate two adults and one child, or three kids. The front seats offered plenty of support and visibility all round is very good. Saab has always been known to incorporate practicality in their vehicles, with a splash of sport.

The 9-3 Viggen is a rare find and is worth the look. This is one of the last of the Saab vehicles that really did gain cult status among fans before Saab started chasing BMW and discontinued the iconic hatchback for a more mainstream sedan. One thing for sure though is there is no other car like a Saab, and even if Saab isn't in production anymore. Saab will always be the company that started the turbo craze and the whole left field illogical thinking. Ingenious safety features and some of the best turbo engines you can ever drive. Saab is and will always be a great company. 

Devon test drives the Infiniti Q60 convertible (Used)

Audi A5, BMW 4-series and Lexus IS all offer a convertible that suits just about everyone’s taste. So why would anyone choose the Infiniti Q60? Let’s find out.

Performance: There’s only one engine offered with the Q60 convertible and that’s a brisk 3.7-liter six-cylinder producing 325hp. Both a seven-speed automatic and six-speed manual gearbox are offered. If you want to get the most engaging driving experience the manual gearbox is the way to go. The auto gearbox really isn’t the smoothest shifting gearbox out there.

On the road: The only thing positive we can say about the Q60 is the steering is direct and takes you around corners and bends with confidence. Everything else however isn’t as great. The body flexes and shivers over rough surfaces. Even with the top down things are far worst. Hit a bump and you’ll get a serious whack in the backside. Wind noise isn’t much of an issue on the highway, but road noise will be heard on some surfaces. The six-cylinder is smooth until you press hard and hear a lovely V6 howl.

Behind the wheel: The dashboard isn’t a paradigm of clarity. But it is somewhat easy to navigate through. There’s plenty of adjustment in the steering wheel and driver’s seat. Rear seat comfort is actually pretty good. It’s even better than some 2+2 coupes. With the roof down the boot space disappears completely thanks to the folding metal roof.

Equipment: Q60 comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless start, and rear-view parking camera and 7-inch color info display. You’ll have to step up to the Q60S to get a six-speed manual gearbox, sport-tuned steering, 19-inch alloy wheels and Bose 13-speaker open air sound system.

Buying & owning: Standard kit is very generous which may explain the car’s hefty price. Since the Q60 only comes with a six-cylinder which isn’t all that fuel efficient. Running costs will be high. Resale value should be decent though.

Quality & safety: The interior has a very nice solid feel to it. Some may feel that the use of Nissan switchgear and buttons cheapen the quality a little. Other than that it’s a very nice and appealing design. Infiniti has decent reliability as well. Six airbags are standard as well as anti-roll-over hoops that pop out in the event of a rollover. Stability control, anti-lock brakes and traction control all come standard. There’s a theft deterrent system to keep thieves at bay.

The Q60 convertible is a good choice if you just have to have an Infiniti. There’s decent kit and the engine is smooth around town and on the highway. But there are just too many negatives to consider. The ride comfort isn’t as composed as its keen rivals and running costs will be high. We highly suggest looking at its rivals first.

Likes: It’s an interesting and good looking alternative to the mainstream. Packed with equipment that somewhat offsets the steep hefty price.

Dislikes: If only it was a good to drive as it is to look at. Running costs will be high. It’s pricey to buy too. The ride comfort isn’t as composed as its keen rivals.

Devon’s choice: It’s hard recommending one with such a steep price and absurd running costs. But if your mind is set on having one, the Q60 base is the only way to go.

Subaru Outback review (Used)

If you wanted a car with all-wheel-drive you'd have to buy a bulky 4x4 that was inefficient and cumbersome to own. Now a days you can buy just about any car with all-wheel-drive and they come in array of shapes and sizes. The Subaru Outback should be on your short list though if you want all-wheel-drive on the cheap.

The 2.5-liter four-cylinder produces 175hp and is all you'll ever really need with the Outback. Even though it is nice that you can still option for the 3.6-liter six-cylinder which has 256hp on tap. Those looking for the best value and lowest running costs will be much happier with the 2.5 which is also our pick of the range.

Previous generations of the Outback weren't really known for their driving dynamics. It has always but utilitarian first and refinement last. But with this generation of the Outback you'll be surprised at how improved the on road dynamics have become. It still won't be as sharp to drive as the sedan couterpart but it is still engaging to drive and is quite frankly enough for what it is. Handling is secure and the steering offers decent feedback. You'll never hurl this thing into tight corners and bends so for the smooth ride it offers it exceeds our expectations.

The interior has been improved dramatically over the years. Now it controls and dials are attractively designed but are very user friendly. We do love how easy it is to navigate through the infotainment system without all the fussy dials some of its keen rivals have. The front seats are comfortable and offer plenty of support. Rear passengers won't feel short changed for legroom or headroom, both are very good. The boot is massive and when you fold the rear seats down there's even more space. If you run out of space with this you don't need a car you need a transit van.

The 2.5 premium trim is the pick of the range. It offers extra kit the standard 2.5 doesn't have and is still within reason in terms of pricing. Although all forms of the Outback offer decent kit but for our money we'd stay closer towards the middle which offers the best of both worlds. Air-con, CD-player, keyless entry and daytime running lamps are standard. Those wanting leather will have to pay extra or step up to the top of the range 3.6 engine.

Buying one shouldn't break the bank too much and resale value will be through the roof because most Subaru owners don't sell their vehicles as quick as other automakers making the second hand market for Subaru a small catalog to search through.

It's standard all-wheel-drive means that it can make nasty weather feel safe and secure. It handles with confidence and is one of those cars you'll love taking on a camping trip or to the ski resort. It really is a jack of all trade and is our top pick for all-wheel-drive vehicles on the cheap. No other car can blend utilitarian and functionality quite well like Subaru. With the new updated styling and improved quality. It may even be harder not to resist taking a closer look.

Likes: Vastly improved over previous generation. Cheap all-wheel-drive yet its functional, cheap to run thanks to a efficient power-train.

Dislikes: Overly sensitive headlights. The rest are nit picking so we decided not to even bother.

Devon test drives a radical new Ford Focus (Used)

The next generation Ford Focus is a radical departure from the previous generation. The new generation is stylish inside out and is aimed at the heavy hitters the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. Trying to take the rental car image away and offer a car that people actually want, has Ford finally hit a homerun with the Focus? Or is it all style no substance? Let’s find out.

Performance: There are two engines available with the Focus. A 2-liter four-cylinder producing 160hp and a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 252hp in the ST. The standard Focus offers enough oomph for most buyers, while the ST offers wicked fast acceleration and a smooth manual gearbox to match. Only downside with the ST is the large amount of torque at low revs which causes the ST to torque steer more than we’d like in the first two gears.

On the road: The Focus was known for having sweet handling when it first arrived here in 1998. The new Focus continues that trend with strong grip and solid body control which makes it feel agile through corners and bends. The steering weighs up nicely and the ride is pretty good too. It isn’t as smooth as a Volkswagen Golf but it’s pretty close to it. The standard Focus engine is smooth and doesn’t make much of a racket when you put your foot down. The manual gearbox is the way to go. It’s smooth and crisp shifts make it much more of a joy than the rather jerky Power-shift automatic. Wind, road noise is well isolated in the cabin making the Focus a comfortable long distance cruiser.

Behind the wheel: The Focus driving position is really good. There’s plenty of adjustment for the steering wheel and driver’s seat. Visibility out is okay, with a few blind spots over the shoulder and out the rear windscreen. The dashboard has too many fiddly and confusing buttons. The Focus offers enough room for four and the boot space is pretty generous it isn’t as large as the VW Golf but its decent compared to the rest.

Equipment:  The S trim comes with CD-player, air-con and stability control. You’ll have to step up to the SE to get alloy wheels and SYNC voice activated entertainment system. Titanium trim adds climate control, premium sound system, rear view parking camera and four-wheel disc brakes. The ST trim adds unique exterior body-kit, turbo engine and few extra sporty bits to make it feel sportier than the rest of the Focus range.

Buying & owning: The standard Focus offers plenty of choices. Although we highly suggest sticking with the SE trim in sedan and hatch form. It seems to make the most sense compared to the S and Titanium trim. ST trim offers hot hatch performance with a relatively low price but don’t expect discounts as the demand for them are high. Running costs should be reasonable and resale value should hold up well as the Focus has been selling quite well.

Quality & Safety: The Focus has a funky and attractive design inside with plenty of high quality materials used in the cabin. This is all good but we wish the dash overall design was a little more user friendly. The Focus has suffered few mechanical issues with the automatic gearbox and the SYNC infotainment system. Stability control and anti-lock brakes are standard. Sadly you’ll have to pay extra for rear disc brakes on most trims which should be standard considering the hatchback starts near $20,000. Side curtain airbags are standard as well as an array of anti-theft features to keep theft at bay. 

The Ford Focus is a radical departure from the previous generation. It’s stylish inside out and offers way better driving experience that the previous generation lacked. However, just like all good things there are its downsides. The Focus interior controls are fiddly and confusing to operate. The Power-Shift auto gearbox is rather jerky between gears and take some getting used it. Also the fact that you’ll have to either step up to the Titanium trim or pay extra for rear disc brakes is just baffling to us. Other than these few complaints the Focus is a solid choice among the heavy hitters and well worth the extra look.

Likes: A radical departure from the previous generation, plenty of grip with excellent body control. Wicked turbo engine performance with low starting price.

Dislikes: Interior controls are too fiddly and confusing to use. Rear disc brakes aren’t standard on SE trim. Power-shift auto gearbox can be jerky between shifts.

Devon’s Pick: SE trim pretty much has all you’ll ever really need in a Focus without paying more than you’ll really need to with the Titanium trim. Our only complaint is the fact that this trim is close to $20,000 and only comes with rear drum brakes. At this price point this is unacceptable. Other than that this is the best Focus of the range not counting the thumping ST.

Devon test drives the 3-series coupe replacement (Used)

BMW wants to separate the coupes from the sedan. Thus the 3-series coupe is no longer the 3-series coupe it’s the 4-series coupe, with a new platform to separate it from the 3-series sedan. Has BMW achieved new feat?

The 428 uses the familiar turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder engine pumping out 240hp. Top of the range 435 trim uses a 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder pumping out 300hp. Pick of the range is the more sensible 428 trim. You can have both trims with all-wheel-drive but we only suggest adding this option if you really need the traction or live in snowy areas where rear-wheel-drive will be cumbersome.

Our biggest gripe with BMW is the optional adaptive M suspension which is only optional and not standard. With this option the 4-series drives the way it is supposed to, we still have yet to drive a BMW without this expensive option and we’ve been put under the impression that BMW doesn’t want you to either. But at least with this option everything feels right and with the suspension set at comfort the daily commute with this car is actually quite comfortable. Slip it into sport mode on tight corners and bends you’ll be treated to an amazing experience as long as the road isn’t too lumpy and bumpy. This will bring out the firmness of the suspension which is to be expected of course.

The driver’s seat offers plenty of support and adjustments. You’ll find a seating position that best fits you to a tee. The dashboard looks like it was taken from a 3-series sedan. This is not a bad thing, however sticking a 4-series badge on this coupe we were hoping BMW would jazz up the interior more since the price tag has been jazzed up. At least there’s plenty of ample space four two in the rear seat and the boot offers decent cargo space.

All three trims are equipped pretty much the same. The only real matter of picking between all four is if you want a faster engine and do you want it with or without all-wheel-drive. We were a bit appalled that Bluetooth isn’t even standard across the range. You can buy pretty much a ton of cars not even in the same price bracket with Bluetooth standard. The standard form doesn’t even get real leather seats. But at least you get bi-xenon headlamps, rain sensing wipes and iDrive on-board computer with 6.5 inch display.

Buying a 4-series won’t be a cheap proposition because most of the options that you’ll want aren’t cheap. Plus you’ll have to pay to make the 4-series drive and handle the way it supposed to. Discounts will be hard to come by too, but resale value will be strong as will all BMW vehicles plus you won’t really have to worry about safety because BMW has that sorted well.

The 4-series maybe sleeker than the 3-series sedan but we still aren’t convinced that it’s any different from the 3-series sedan. Dynamically they feel the same and interior wise they look the same. Some may not be ready to fully accept the 3-series coupe new replacement. On paper the 4-series is a great coupe but in reality there are a few short comings we would strongly look into first before fully making up your mind.

Likes: Styling is sleeker and slightly more appealing design than the 3-serie sedan. With the right options the 4-series is a dream to drive.

Dislikes: So many options and so many of them are expensive. Bluetooth not standard is absurd. Interior doesn’t look or feel any different from 3-series sedan.

Devon test drives a CLA (Used)

Audi and Mercedes both are offering four-door sedans for buyers who can't afford the more expensive A4 and C-class offerings. The CLA is the stylish of the two and offers that Mercedes quality at a lower asking price. But does this mean that you get what you pay for with a cheap Mercedes?

Performance: The CLA only offers two engine choices. It's a no brainer here as to which engine is the pick of the range. The CLA250 which is the cheaper of the two offers a turbocharged four-cylinder producing 208hp. Top of the range CLA45 AMG offers the same turbocharged four-cylinder producing 355hp. Most buyers will pick the CLA250 because it's cheaper to buy and makes the most sense financially.

On the road: The CLA suspension is set up towards comfort which is fine if you desire a smooth ride. The car still shimmies around over rough surfaces. The sports suspension sharpens handling but the ride comfort is much firmer and produces a choppy ride over rough surfaces. The AMG is great fun but is much harder to live with. There is little wind noise at highway speeds, there is a lot of road noise on patchy road surfaces. Both engines are smooth in operation but the AMG has a contagious exhaust that makes it hard to drive casually.

Behind the wheel: The driving position is good for drivers of all sizes. With plenty of adjustments for both driver's seat and steering wheel. This is sadly where the positives end. Just like all other Mercedes, you have to operate many functions by scrolling through menus with a single control dial in the center console. The lay out isn't very user friendly and is just too distracting to fully operate while on the go. The swooping roofline means that rear visibility is poor. There's plenty of room in front for two with so-so rear passenger space. You'll have to becareful not to bash your head when getting in the back of the CLA. The boot is fairly large but its shallow and makes loading bulky items tricky.

Equipment: The CLA250 comes with decent kit for the money. Although you'll have to pay extra for Bi-xenon headlamps and a sport package which makes the CLA look sportier. Attention Assist is standard as well as 17-inch alloy wheels, start/stop system and Bluetooth hands-free interface. Top of the range AMG offers unique AMG trim, all-wheel-drive system and Bi-Xenon headlamps.

Buying & owning: The CLA looks pricey compared to the A3 sedan. Many of the features you'll most likely want pushes the price higher. At least the running costs will be decent if you stick with the front-wheel-drive variant. Resale value should be strong too thanks to good looks and the legendary Mercedes badge.

Quality: Interior quality and materials used feel upscale but don't feel as classy as the A3. Plus there are some areas that feel cost cutting. What worries us even more is the fact that Mercedes continues to score low in reliability surveys even though they have improved dramatically over the years. It's still not as good as Audi and BMW.

Safety: 10 airbags come standard as well as Attention Assist which monitors drowsy drivers. Optional is Bi-xenon headlamps on the CLA250 as well as blind spot warning detection. Deadlocks and an imobiliser come standard to keep theft at bay.

The CLA is a great entry level luxury sedan for those who really want the Mercedes badge but can't afford the more expensive C-class. Even though it is a great car all round, it still makes us wonder is it really worth considering? There are many indirect rivals that offer more kit for similar money and there's the Audi A3 which offers a few extra bits standard for the same price tag. Unless love the looks and can over look the short comings of the CLA this is the car for you. Otherwise we suggest looking at the A3 and top of the range indirect rivals.

Likes: Stylish inside out. Smooth turbo engine. AMG is a total hoot to drive. Mercedes at a low price what's not to like?

Dislikes: You'll pay an arm and leg to get the features you'll most likely want. AMG version is expensive. Reliability is still iffy and there's too many better indirect rivals.

Devon's Choice: The CLA250 is a no brainer here. If you want a cheap Mercedes this is the version to go for. However, you'll have to pay extra for features that you'd most likely want. They don't come cheap either!

Devon test drives an Audi A3 (Used)

If you acquire the taste of luxury but the price tag leaves you running for the hills. Fret not because the Audi A3 is here.

There are two engines to choose from. The standard 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 170hp while the top of the range 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 220hp. Picking between the two is all a mere matter of taste. The 1.8 only comes with front-wheel-drive and is our pick of the range. It makes the most sense financially and running costs are decent too. It’s nice though that you can have more power with the 2-liter turbo but you can only have it with all-wheel-drive. Both versions don’t even offer a manual gearbox, in both cases however you’ll have to go with the upcoming redesigned Volkswagen Golf/GTI to satisfy that desire.

Unless you’re downgrading from a Bentley, the interior won’t be as classy in comparison. However both are classy and both won’t disappoint. Audi's interior decors are some of the best in the industry. Even the optional infotainment display that sort of leaps out of the dash is a welcome touch; everything is within easy reach of the driver’s hand and the seats are comfortable with plenty of support. Rear passengers however may suffer a bit in legroom.

Premium trim offers leather seats, Xenon headlamps, dual zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof. Premium plus trim adds keyless start, 18-inch alloy wheels and heated front seats. You’ll have to step up to the Prestige trim to full LED headlights, 14 speaker 705watt sound system and voice control navigation system.

The A3 may seem expensive compared to indirect rivals such as the Mazda3 and even Volkswagen GTI. But for those who crave the Audi badge but can’t afford the A4 we strongly suggest sticking with the standard form and you’ll be fine. Resale value is too soon to call since the A3 is new to the market.

The A3 is a classy offering and is worth considering if you want a four-door sedan with premium image. However it’s just not as compelling to look at compared to the Mercedes CLA and it’s not as fun to drive as a BMW 2-series. It is the best between the two and we think it’s the top pick for those who want a classy well rounded sedan.

Likes: Both engines have strong pull. The standard kit is impressive for such a low asking price.

Dislikes: Bland exterior looks. There are so many indirect rivals that offer more for similar money.

Devon’s Choice: The A3 Premium 1.8t is where our money would go. It offers enough kit to satisfy most needs without being too expensive. Plus running costs are decent too.

We poke fun at pop songs

Fair use - (in US copyright law) the doctrine that brief excerpts of copyright material may, under certain circumstances, be quoted verbatim for purposes such as criticism, news reporting, teaching, and research, without the need for permission from or payment to the copyright holder.

[Written purely for satirical nature, because it's fun making fun of crappy pop songs.]

Miley Cyrus 'We Can't Stop'

It's our party we can do what we want

It's our party we can say what we want

It's our party we can love who we want

We can kiss who we want

We can see who we want

It's our party we can do what we want

It's our party we can say what we want

It's our party we can love who we want

We can kiss who we want

We can see who we want

[Sure, if it’s not illegal. I get the feeling that some of these activities aren’t legal? I question this because knowing this song about partying and drinking. Someone somewhere in this party will be having sex and doing drugs because we are young and stupid!]

Red cups and sweaty bodies everywhere

[Red cups means that everyone in this party is drinking heavily; and when you’re drinking heavily you’ll sweat heavily because alcohol dehydrates the body. Secondly, no one wants to be around a bunch of sweaty people. Someone will emit BO that’s so pungent that it’ll kill the vibes in the room immediately.]

Hands in the air like we don't care

[When people don’t care they throw their hands up and say no fucks given; give me a drink bitch!]

'Cause we came to have so much fun now

[Fun can be had without sweaty bodies, red cups and heavy drinking; just saying.]

Got somebody here might get some now

[Why would anyone want to hook up with someone at this party? Everyone has been drinking excessively and also everyone is sweaty and most likely smelly. These are the ingredients for the worst sex ever!]

If you're not ready to go home

Can I get a hell no

[Hell yeah! I’ll give it a good hour before someone barfs or gets into a fight. Secondly, no one wants to be around sweaty people for an extended period of time. It becomes annoying and obnoxious really quick – no matter how drunk you are.]

'Cause we gonna go all night

'Till we see the sunlight alright

[I’m pretty sure at a certain point you’re going to get a noise complaint and you’ll have to wind down the party, just saying. We are young and will be dicks to our neighbors; that’s what I’m getting from this.]

So la da da di we like to party

[So, this is what kids chant when they’re partying with their friends?]

Dancing with Molly

[Molly is a street drug like ecstasy. Secondly, I knew it! People are doing drugs and dancing like they’ve done drugs. Here I was thinking Miley decided to give her friend (an actual person) a shout out because she likes to dance and have fun.]

Doing whatever we want,

This is our house

This is our rules

[Sorry to be the bearer of bad news; you still have to oblige to the law even if it is your ‘own’ house. You can’t do whatever you want. You still have to turn the music down at a certain point and hope no one calls the cops for the excessive drug usage going on.]

And we can't stop (whoa)

And we won't stop (whoa)

[Nope, when you’ve popped a Molly you won’t be stopping. You’ll keep going and going till you pass out from exhaustion or dehydration.]

Can't you see it's we who own the night

Can't you see it we who bout' that life

[So basically you’re proud to do drugs, drink obsessively and be dicks to your neighbors? I see nothing to brag about here?]

And we can't stop (whoa)

And we won't stop (whoa)

[I get it! You like doing everything bad and are damn proud of it.]

We run things, things don't run we

Don't take nothing from nobody yeah yeah

[Yes ‘things’ will be running away from you quickly; especially using this line of grammar. You don’t take ‘nothing’ from ‘nobody’, unless it’s a cop who could arrest you all for wreck-less behavior.]

It's our party we can do what we want

It's our party we can say what we want

It's our party we can love who we want

We can kiss who we want

We can see who we want

[The joys of being young and stupid; we love herpes and we love drugs.]

To my home girls here with the big butts

[Fuck all the other girls at the party right? Except those the ones with the big butts, ya’ll is my homies!]

Shaking it like we at a strip club

[It’s the drugs. I’m pretty sure that’s why you’re dancing like that.]

Remember only God can judge us

[‘God’ is sending a one-way ticket to hell for every person at this party. ‘God’ is judging you by the way, very harshly and severely with eternal damnation.]

Forget the haters cause somebody loves ya

[These ‘haters’ don’t like doing drugs and being wreck-less with one’s life. The ‘haters’ are right; you can have fun without being wreck-less with one’s life.]

And everyone in line in the bathroom

Trying to get a line in the bathroom

(So we’ve gone from popping a Molly to just straight up cocaine. One can only assume this seeing that cocaine is normally taken in lines and heroin is shot up by needles. I don’t know why I know this but I do.)

We all so turnt up here

Getting turnt up yeah yeah yeah

(Yeah, cocaine makes me turn up. Drug fueled high!)

So la da da di we like to party

Dancing with Molly

Doing whatever we want

This is our house

This is our rules

And we can't stop (whoa)

And we won't stop (whoa)

Can't you see it's we who own the night

Can't you see it we who bout' that life

And we can't stop (whoa)

And we won't stop (whoa)

We run things

Things don't run we

Don't take nothing from nobody yeah yeah

It's our party we can do what we want

It's our party we can say what we want

It's our party we can love who we want

We can kiss who we want

We can see who we want

It's our party we can do what we want to

It's our house we can love who we want to

It's our song we can sing if we want to

It's my mouth I can say what I want to yea, yea, yeah

And we can't stop (whoa)

And we won't stop (whoa)

Can't you see it's we who own the night

Can't you see it we who bout' that life

And we can't stop (whoa)

And we won't stop (whoa)

We run things, things don't run we

Don't take nothing from nobody, yeah yeah

Yeah yeah, yeah yeah,

(We can do what we want, we can do what we want) hey

Summary: A catchy beat paired to questionable lyrics.