2020 INFINITI AND BEYOND By TestDriveNow Auto Critic Steve Hammes. Infiniti is celebrating its 30th anniversary but it’s a far cry from cupcakes and balloons. Times are tough for the brand’s 205 U.S. dealers. Nissan’s luxury division has seen sales decrease for 11 straight months with declines across all 7 nameplates – 2 of which have been discontinued for the 2020 model year. Their clear sales leader – the QX60 3-row crossover SUV – hasn’t been completely redesigned since 2012.
In the meanwhile, Infiniti recently debuted its Edition 30 vehicles across all 5 existing models featuring a number of distinctive design touches.  Available in 3 colors – Black, Graphite and White – with additions like dark finish wheels, dark chrome details, unique graphite interior and the inclusion of ProASSIST package driver assistance features as standard, the Edition 30 Package varies in price per vehicle, ranging from $2,000 for the QX50 Essential to $5,700 for the QX80 Luxe. 

2020 Jeep Compass Trailhawk Review by TestDriveNow Auto Critic Steve Hammes.
Small SUVs are a dime a dozen but try and find one that can really get after it when the pavement ends and your choices dwindle to only a few. And it’s no surprise that Jeep offers one of the most capable with the Compass. It’s not perfect but it possesses a unique skillset that I like with a healthy dose of creature comforts – a fun alternative in the small SUV segment.  

A midsize sport sedan with few compromises, the 2019 Lexus GS continues to offer a unique blend of pulse quickening performance, sumptuous luxury and world-class quality. For those who would prefer a GS with a little more edge, the F SPORT package can be added to any version of the GS. Upgrading to the F SPORT package combines track-tuned chassis enhancements with exclusive exterior and interior design features for a more distinctive look and feel.

Every F SPORT package includes a specially tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension, 19-inch split spoke alloy wheels, a Sport+ drive mode, LFA-inspired instrumentation and sport seats with a 16-way, power adjustable driver’s seat. Rear-wheel drive models can also be equipped with Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and 14-inch, two-piece brake rotors with 4-piston, monoblock calipers. Optional equipment on rear-wheel drive F SPORT models includes a TORSEN® limited slip rear differential, the Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system with Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) and orange brake calipers.

Styling enhancements on all F SPORT models include a unique front bumper, revised grille and rear valence and a rear spoiler. On the inside, the F SPORT package adds aluminum trim, a black headliner and aluminum pedals.

The third-generation RDX (2019-20) is the first in a new generation of Acura models built on the resurgent luxury brand’s original and authentic Precision Crafted Performance brand values.  In setting their targets for the design and performance, the U.S. design and engineering team drew inspiration from both the Acura Precision Concept and Acura Precision Cockpit as well as the pinnacle representation of Acura performance, the NSX supercar. The RDX is the first all-new design drawing from the Concept styling and the advanced Cockpit technology. The RDX team’s ultimate goal was straightforward: to make the best RDX ever, a vehicle that sets the foundation for an entire new generation of Acura vehicles in terms of styling, performance, premium quality and technology.

Featuring a new Platinum White exterior color for 2020, RDX carries forward the next generation of Acura design, performance and technology that debuted on the all-new 2019 model, including the popular A-Spec sport appearance package. RDX delivers an exceptional driving experience thanks in part to its 272-horsepower (SAE net) turbocharged i-VTEC® engine and available Acura Super-Handling All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), along with a class-leading array of standard premium features and technologies, including AcuraWatch™ safety and driver-assistive technology, an ultra-wide panoramic moonroof, next-generation Acura JewelEye™ LED headlights, and next-generation Acura sport seats. The 2020 RDX also includes the critically-acclaimed True Touchpad Interface™, Acura’s groundbreaking user interface tailored around the driver. Also offered on RDX is the available ELS Studio 3D™ premium audio, a 16-channel, 710-watt system, featuring four ultra-slim Highline™ ceiling-mounted speakers to create a truly immersive listening experience.

The third-generation RDX has received the highest possible safety ratings of TOP SAFETY PICK+ (depending on selected headlights) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and is expected to repeat this feat for the 2020 model year.

When you fill your Wrangler cup all the way to the top this is what you drink; an Unlimited Rubicon with every option making it nearly as luxurious as it is capable. This is my first drive in one powered by a 2.0-liter turbo; one of three engine offerings for the 2020 model year. Base price is about $44,000 but this one has it all.  And it’s as fun to drive through the snow and mud as ever with a new turbo option that’s likely best suited for the Wrangler Sport . MSRP as-tested: $59,605 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4X4 Review By Auto Critic Steve Hammes https://testdrivenow.com/2020-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-4×4/