Subaru, Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz make sure this year
is one of their best!
Photos courtesy of automakers
With
2020 reaching its, well, eventful first quarter, carmakers
Subaru, Hyundai 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 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.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited, Venue SEL and Elantra GT
I continue to be impressed by the steady thrive of
Hyundai’s products. This year’s line maintains that momentum with the Sonata
Hybrid Limited, wallet-friendly Venue SEL and
exhilarating Elantra GT N Line M/T.
The top-of-the-line Sonata Hybrid Limited stands out as one of the best in its
segment. The Sonata’s sleek redesign was initially pleasing to the eye,
followed by all the perks that came with it; I appreciated the spacious cabin
for up to five passengers, its 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission, 47
average miles per gallon, panoramic sunroof, Bose sound system, and simply fun
driving experience backed by a 191-horsepower engine. Hyundai continues to be
gracious with its tech amenities as well, including the Limited’s 10.25-inch
touchscreen navigation; Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA);
and mind-blowing Remote Smart Parking Assist. Controlling the climate, locks
and even ignition from the owner’s phone thanks to the Blue Link Connected Car
System further seals the deal at a very reasonable $35,300. The other trims
include the SEL and SEL Plus for a few thousand less, but I’d go with this
Limited for the full experience.
Taking
a more practical approach in getting around, I also reviewed the all-new Venue
in the SEL trim, where Hyundai did a fine job addressing the increasingly
popular subcompact SUV market. This vehicle gets a thumbs up for its roominess,
responsive steering, and aforementioned tech enhancements; I also applauded the
option of manual transmission, although the continuously variable automatic
(CVT) operated sufficiently. Starting at $19,150, this review model came with highly
recommended Convenience (power sunroof, leather-wrapped fixtures, collision
warnings) and Premium (heated seats, LED lighting, 17-inch wheels, push button
start, 8-inch touchscreen with mobile-app connectivity, Blue Link) Packages
totaling just over $23K. Summed up, the Venue is a fine addition to the Hyundai
portfolio with especially budget-conscious consumer with families appreciating
the option.
For personal preference, I’m all about aggressive driving
and styling, so this hatchback Elantra had me happily intrigued. Dressed in a
stunning “Intense Blue” and black interior, this edition of one of its most
respected car variants boasted all the upgrades a racing enthusiast would yearn
for. The N Line’s turbocharged 1.6-liter engine charged forward with 201 horses
controlled by a responsive, six-speed manual (a seven-speed dual-clutch
automatic is the other option), plus the continued Hyundai theme of cabin
roominess, multi-link independent rear suspension, a spoiler, and 18-inch alloy
wheels completed the sporty experience. Advanced safety technology
embellishments coming standard boost a driver’s confidence, plus Android and
Apple CarPlay connectivity; and leather appointments throughout the cabin
collectively make the N Line’s $24,590 tag a sound purchase.
Ultimately, with Hyundai’s class-leading warranty packages, ingenuity,
inventiveness and emphasis on value, this brand will maintain its brilliant luster
for years to come.
- Dennis Malcolm Byron
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.
- Andrea Janise
