Here is a page form my latest auto column, and below includes some more dope automobiles that caught my eye. |
Let's Cruise!
As many of you know, I love sharing the cool side of cars and design is a big component of my coverage! In one of my upcoming articles for my Driver's Notebook column for various magazines like the one above plus Instagram, here is what impressed me when I got the chance to check these models out in person. Note that there are more that will be added to this post as the year progresses, so stay tuned!
Driver's Notebook
The automotive industry continues to be extremely competitive,
so there have to be inventive ways to stand out from the rest. One of the most
effective methods to stand out from the rest is to attract the eye of owners
and prospective buyers. Be it makeovers of an existing models or in one case,
an all-new trim making its debut this year, here are some of the most stunning exteriors
presented in 2018.
2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4x4
The Jeep brand is as American as apple pie and continues to produce dream automobiles for the adventurous, off-roaders—and recently—the fashionably hip. To cover all the bases, the current stylizing of the 2018 Rubicon will please both traditionalists and its burgeoning fan base of Millennials. We were wowed by the Granite Crystal Metallic paint adorned by some must-have, yet affordable packages, including LED lighting ($895); “Street Bumper Group” (1,295); and Black Freedom Top 3-piece Hard Top ($1,095). The 17-inch x 7-inch black wheels take on any terrains with a 3.6-liter V6 engine controlled by a six-speed manual transmission. Ultimately, this model successfully preserves Jeep’s decorated history.
For more information, visit Jeep.com
The KIA brand has made extraordinary progress from their independent
launch into the US market in the early 90s. Revered for their improvement in
virtually every specification, they have taken their design and power output to
new heights with their head-turning Stinger GT. Peaking at 365 horsepower
thanks to its 3.3-liter twin turbo engine under the hood enhanced with “Launch
Control,” KIA’s talented design team successfully crafted the Stinger looks to
match its brawn. Popularly showcased in an intimidating “Hichroma Red,” the LED
lighting package, and Brembo brakes adorning the 19-inch wheels collectively
confirm a bright, boundary-pushing future for this Korean powerhouse.
Price reviewed: $38,350
with all options
For more information, visit Kia.com
2018 Buick Regal GS
For years, Buick has been regarded as an automaker geared primarily for older generations due to its storied history built around comfort and elegance, but the all-new Regal Buick Regal GS strongly suggests otherwise. This sedan’s sleek body flaunts a “GS Sport” grille accented with a black finish, front air scoops, red Brembo brakes, 19-inch wheels, rear spoiler, and my review model’s “Sport Red” exterior; these features collectively exclaim “Performance!” Thankfully, its V-6 engine is powered by 31o horses controlled with three Interactive Drive settings, and a nine-speed automatic transmission to effectively back up its racing-inspired design. Considering the attractive performance seats enhanced by temperature settings and massage capabilities; sport pedals; the “sportback” for expanded cargo options; and numerous hi-tech components, and you have one of the most exciting cars Buick has ever produced.
Price: $39,070
For more information, visit buick.com.
2018 Lexus RC350
2-Door Coupe
Lexus is world-renowned for its attention to detail
inside and out, but when it comes to a reasonably priced coupe with a plethora
of amenities, they have outdone themselves with the RC350. Sleek and curvaceous
in all the right places, we highly recommended the F-Sport Package ($4,105)
including the customary “spindle” grille, 16-spoke wheels, aluminum pedals, and
numerous other racing-inspired amenities in the cabin. Complete the head
turning with orange caliber brakes; premium triple-beam LED headlights and
floodlights, and the glistening “Atomic Silver” paint before igniting the road
with 311 horses under the hood.
Price: $43,570;
$55,660 as reviewed
For more information, visit Lexus.com