Subaru and
Mercedes-Benz make sure this year is one of their best!
With 2020 reaching
its, well, eventful first quarter, carmakers Subaru and Mercedes-Benz show no
signs of complacency with new additions to their already revered
portfolio. You know my contributors and I do our best to let you know what the
best new options are for the road while exploring the world on four wheels, so here we go:
Subaru
2020 Subaru Outback Limited XT
Besides Subaru’s noteworthy loyalty of their customer
base, corporations have made especially the Outback model one of the short list
of car options to use for work. Why? Along with the carmaker’s remarkable
reputation for reliability over the years, the value, road adaptability, customer
service, and practicality have always kept the brand in high regards.
Well now, the sixth generation of the Outback SUV not
only sports subtle physical changes sitting on 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, but
substantial upgrades in the technology department, including the STARLINK 11.6-inch
multimedia touchscreen; across-the-board smartphone integration; and DriverFocus
Distraction Mitigation System to ensure eyes are kept where they’re supposed be
and combat fatigue. We also love the leather-adorned interior; dual USB ports
for the rear console; Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity; Lineartronic CVT; hands-free power
rear gate; and All-Weather package to make sure we combat any inclement environs
confidently. All in all, this midsize SUV is a winner with a very fair price tag
around $38K.
Keep the subcompact 2020 Crosstrek and Legacy
sedan in mind as well. In an extremely popular segment, the Crosstrek model is
one of the most comfortable, spacious, and generous cargo spaces when it comes
to packing for long trips. An advanced, yet user-friendly infotainment system
seals the deal to make it one of the most sound decisions when purchasing a new
auto.
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The 2020 Legacy has added some extra muscle. |
The top-of-the-line 2020 Legacy Limited XT also
makes an impression, boasting not only the new, aforementioned STARLINK
touchscreen and similar XT benefits, but also LED steering responsive
headlights, increased passenger legroom, and a muscle-flexing 2.4-liter
turbocharged BOXER DOHC engine pumping out up to 260 horses. Even with the
power boost, this sedan still averages 27 miles per gallon combined.
Also note that Subaru proudly announces that their Legacy
and Outback are built on the “Subaru Global Platform, which offers increased
safety, dynamics and quietness as well as reduced noise, vibration and
harshness” for the win, according to their website.
For more information on Subaru’s game-changing 2020
models, visit Subaru.com.
Mercedes-Benz
2020 Mercedes
GLE350 4Matic SUV
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 4Matic SUV is as stunning on the
road as it is on the showroom floor. This head turner garnered attention at
stoplights and in parking lots throughout Atlanta as I drove the Brilliant Blue
Metallic beauty through the streets. With 24-hour roadside assistance, advanced
airbag protection system and the Pre-Safe Predictive Occupant Protection
System, that prepares and protects the vehicle and passengers before an
accident takes place. Using the sensors placed strategically throughout the
vehicle, the system senses when an unavoidable collision is about to take place
and will begin tightening seat belts, closing windows, and adjusting head
restraints to protect passengers. I felt very safe in this vehicle whether riding alone or with friends and family. With a 2.0 Inline turbo engine and 255 horsepower with 273 lbs. of torque, this car was just as dynamic under the hood as it is inside the vehicle. Further regarding the interior, Mercedes brings their traditional luxury standard with the soft black Nappa leather seats and a natural grain oak interior wood trim; 12.3 wide screen display; touchpad with Apple Car Play and Android Auto with full Bluetooth capabilities; heated and ventilated front seats; and heated steering wheel. Pampering optional features include the 20-inch, 5-spoke wheels with black accents; heated rear seats; surround sound and view system; four-zone automatic climate control; and soft-close doors. With a combined city and highway of 22 miles per gallon, this luxurious vehicle does not skimp on the amenities and ensures a great driving experience. But then again, that’s what Mercedes-Benz has provided us for decades.
For more information, visit Mbusa.com.
- Andrea Janise