An Automotive Engineer's Point of View – News and Reviews
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Simply walking up to the monster truck-like RAM 1500 causes goosebumps with anticipation. Its massive proportions, its 700+ horsepower engine, and its Baja-ready suspension shut out any notion of a sensible Sunday drive. It’s rowdy but professional, extreme but livable. Simply put, it’s the supercar of off-road trucks.
Minivans exhibit some of the best examples of practical engineering. Their space-efficient exterior proportions aren’t the most athletic or adventurous looking but they seem to conjure the creative spirit that leads to better solutions for everyday problems as opposed to simply new ideas. And with this model’s $51,000 price tag, there are plenty of examples of ingenuity but what better way to find out than a road trip through the southern Rocky Mountains.
Continue reading “2021 Chrysler Pacifica Limited AWD”
The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat is an instant classic. It’s a single-year production run of an everyday three-row crossover that’s been stuffed with one of the rowdiest and most powerful combustion engines ever produced. And as the world pushes for EV’s and manufacturers shy away from engines with monstrous fuel appetites, there’s an undeniable realization that this is not just a special vehicle, it’s also the last of its kind.
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The claims of Mercedes marketing of being the best or nothing at all is pretty subjective, however, there is no doubt that the refreshed E450 sedan exudes high-quality materials and the satisfaction from thoroughly engineered systems that undoubtedly place the mid-size sedan at the upper crust of the luxury car segment.
Continue reading “2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 4MATIC”
There are few cars destined for such serenity as the Toyota Avalon, and for 2021, the big sedan receives all-wheel drive to carry that calming experience confidently through the winter months.
Continue reading “2021 Toyota Avalon AWD”
In today’s market where crossovers are king, every niche and market crevasse is being explored. Though no longer surprising that Kia now has three similarly-sized crossovers, do they all serve a unique purpose? This all-new 2021 Kia Seltos is pitched as a spacious and rugged crossover that slots between the urban-funky Soul and the upscale and sporty Sportage. Its adventurous looks, however, is where the excitement ends, and the Seltos simply gets by on the merits of its practicality and good value.
Continue reading “2021 Kia Seltos”It’s time to reconsider what the Hybrid badge means in today’s automotive arena. More power and better driveability are now perks of being a Hybrid – in addition to improved efficiency. In the case of the RAV4, it strengthens its weakest link for a small cost that will quickly pay for itself.
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The 4Runner requires a full commitment to its rough and tumble DNA. It forgoes many of the daily comforts found in today’s crossovers for the off-road capability and durability that has earned it its legendary status. For most though, the daily compromises might be more than its worth. Let’s discuss.
Continue reading “2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD PRO”Snowy road, check. Traction Control off, check. Turn the wheel, liberally apply power, and then counter-steer the power-on drift. Did I mention that we’re doing this in a Camry?
Making the case for the most capable vehicle available today.
When Mercedes-Benz graces the rear end of the car with the AMG badge, there is an immediate rise in expectations. The now in-house performance arm has waived their wands over more unlikely vehicles such as the G 63 (and the single-year run of the R 63) which raises suspicion of the big SUV’s true sporting intentions but the brand-new generation AMG GLS 63 begs one to test its go-fast credibility all while enjoying its lengthy list of luxurious features and three-row spaciousness.
Continue reading “Mercedes-AMG GLS 63”