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2020 BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe

2020 BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe Review By Auto Critic Steve Hammes.
This is an inarguable truth: BMW’s naming protocols are ridiculous; a bunch of mumbo-jumbo fully understood by only the most ardent Bimmer brain.  But as a general rule of thumb, the higher the number the bigger the body, engine and price. 
When I first heard that BMW was making a 2 Series Gran Coupe I just assumed it was going to be a 4-door version of the current model, much like the 4 Series Gran Coupe. But it isn’t. Unlike the standard Coupe and Convertible, this one is based upon a front-wheel drive car made in the UK. Is this bodystyle going to be a hit for BMW or a one and done? 

MSRP as-tested: $48,195
https://testdrivenow.com/2020-bmw-228i-xdrive-gran-coupe/

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2020 MINI Cooper S Clubman Review

I’m a big fan of this current generation of MINIs thanks largely to BMW’s heavy influence and the Clubman’s combination of updated tech and premium attributes makes for a truly unique choice.
Following current trends, the Clubman now sports more grille, new LED fogs and headlamps that automatically adapt their brightness to the situation on the road, LED rear lights with the Union Jack design and a host of styling and equipment tweaks inside and out.  

This is the top trim Iconic model including the $800 Driver Assistive Package which provides active cruise control, a pop up heads-up display, and parking assistant leading to an as-tested price of $40,600.  And yes, there’s always a little sticker shock when I test a MINI but this Clubman feels very modern, personalized and boutique and items with those attributes are always going to command a premium.  

MSRP as-tested: $40,600

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2020 Mercedes Benz GLS450

2020 Mercedes Benz GLS450 Review By Auto Critic Steve Hammes. Until 2006, Mercedes didn’t have a full-size offering in the SUV segment. But that all changed with the debut of the 3-row GL – now known as the GLS to denote its stature as the S Class of SUVs. And now for its next act, the GLS is bigger, lavishes its occupants with more luxury and doubles down on technology.
With an abundance of options, MSRP is $103,180 – up from a base price of about $76,000.  You’d be nuts not to want one but for the money the X7 is even more impressive.   https://testdrivenow.com/2020-mercedes-benz-gls450/

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2021 Kia Seltos SX

2021 Kia Seltos SX Complete Video Review By TestDriveNow Auto Critic Steve Hammes. Does Kia need another utility vehicle? You bet they do and here it is: the 2021 Kia Seltos – a small SUV slotted between the Soul and Sportage.
Kia refers to it as an “adventure-ready crossover” and with over 7” of ground clearance, available all-wheel drive with lock mode, off-road friendly approach angles and skid plates it has the resume. Kia has another hit on their hands.  If marketed correctly the Seltos should be able to build off of the Telluride’s momentum, keeping smaller SUV shoppers coming into Kia showrooms.
MSRP as-tested: 29,580

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2021 GMC Yukon First Look

2021 GMC Yukon First Look By Auto Critic Steve Hammes. When the Escalade is a little too rich for your blood and a Chevy a tad too plebian, GMC is right there to perfectly meet your large SUV needs.  The all-new 2021 Yukon and its extra-long brother the Yukon XL have plenty of new tricks up their sleeves including an even more luxurious Denali model and the addition of the more rugged AT4 trim. Families will appreciate the Yukon’s nearly 5” longer wheelbase which substantially expands 3rd row legroom and max cargo volume.  The Yukon XL also grows in those regards but more modestly.  A new sliding 2nd row seat makes getting in and out of that 3rd row easier than ever.  Of course, the new independent rear suspension also plays a role in the smarter packaging as well as elevating the Yukon’s ride sophistication. Built in Texas, the 2021 Yukon and Yukon XL go on sale this summer.  https://testdrivenow.com/2021-gmc-yukon-first-look/

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