Pilgrim Motor Press

The F Sport is newly available with the Hybrid version of the ES and why not? The whole ES lineup has been updated with revised ride and handling performance as a result of the newly defined Lexus Driving Experience and lessons learned from the sporty IS.

Just as the automotive world was still reveling with the launch of the Lexus LS 400, the ES 250 quietly debuted for the 1990 model year. While it didn’t set the world on fire with its obvious ties to the Camry, it only needed a couple of years to find its own form and has established itself as a steadfast contributor to the brand’s sales and image. The ES has grown in size and even become a bit bold with its styling, but its never wavering commitment to attainable luxury has allowed it to be continuously refined to the point where it is now an expert in the field. 

This is the fully loaded, full-size Bronco and is very different than the Bronco Sport. It has all of the advertised and hyped off-road goodies, such as an electronically disconnecting sway bar (that can release while under load), Bilstein dampers, a locking front and rear differential with lower gearing, modular steel bumpers, and 35-inch tires. Still, some off-road specs may not match those of a fully fitted Wrangler, but the Bronco has superior high-speed stability – a critical component to getting to the trails without already feeling worn out. The steering feel is very distant but it’s at least accurate and responsive and the road noise is about what one might expect from an off-roader with a removable top – simply don’t bother with the more expensive stereo.

While Genesis touts the GV70 as a performance luxury crossover, its fancy bits shine the brightest. In-person, the crossover looks larger than it is and its exterior is full of details that take the styling to the next level. The wheels, headlights, bumper designs, and body curves, especially in this dark red color, all speak of luxury and the extra effort in design and engineering that went into the GV70.

The BMW 3-series sedan is a quick reminder of what these sports sedans can uniquely deliver: Confident but frisky handling and an interior that feels enclosed yet retains a refreshingly open forward view. This year, BMW adds a plug-in hybrid powertrain that furthers the sedan’s efficiency but it’s not without a few compromises. 

This was so close to being a home run for Kia. The redesigned Sorento offers powertrain diversity that reaches both ends of the performance spectrum, an exterior that is bold without being offensive, an interior that is appreciatively practical, and it carries an undeniable sense of value. So what is it that keeps both of these models from being winning standouts? 

When car companies switch their car names to some alphanumeric description, there is normally a bit of hesitation towards the new model – as if it might be trying a little too hard to say, “I’m new”. Such is the case with the new Kia K5 mid-size sedan which effectively fills the shoes of the departed Optima. So is it really worth getting to know this new model? In short, absolutely.  

The AMG E53 Coupe presents big coupe looks with subtle hints at the significant performance enhancements that lie underneath. It’s got power, grace, and a heavy dose of premium technology all wrapped in a package that is undeniably Mercedes-Benz. 

The all-new 4-Series coupe is decidedly sporty by way of its spec sheet but it misses out on delivering the advertised ultimate driving experience and instead delivers an impressively luxurious ride and a controversial design.