When shopping for an executive sedan I understand the desire to eschew the German triumvirate for something a little different, perhaps something with its own unique Japanese flair. Well, that’s the Lexus LS; recently redesigned and still available in hybrid form.

MSRP as-tested: $107,355
https://testdrivenow.com/2019-lexus-ls-500h/

Mazda’s engineers could have left well enough alone for their award-winning family vehicle but instead continue to make meaningful improvements to benefit drivers and passengers in all three rows. Among the updates are a refined, retuned suspension that offers a smoother, quieter and more natural ride and greater sound suppression by way of a thicker headliner and thicker floor mats, which aid in ease of conversation and enjoyment.

The 2019 Nissan Kicks, the sixth member of the Nissan crossover and SUV line-up, is designed to fit the needs of singles or couples looking for expressive styling, personal technology, smart functionality – and advanced safety features – at an affordable price.
As the gateway to Nissan’s adventure-ready sport utility portfolio – joining Rogue Sport, Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder and Armada – Kicks is designed to fit the needs of singles or couples looking for unique styling, roominess, personal technology, smart functionality and advanced safety features at an affordable price. https://testdrivenow.com/2019-nissan-kicks-quick-takes/

2019 HYUNDAI KONA QUICK TAKES. Hyundai Kona rides on an all-new CUV platform and is Hyundai’s first B-segment crossover for the U.S. market, appealing to consumers with active lifestyles of all kinds. Kona’s “urban smart armor” exterior styling features voluminous, aggressive body styling complemented by a low and wide stance for great looks and confident handling in a variety of urban and adventure-oriented driving environments. It joins Hyundai’s successful Tucson, Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport in a full line-up of Hyundai crossovers for the U.S. market. 
Kona Ultimate models are equipped with Blue Link®, including complimentary three-year Blue Link services, with enhanced safety, diagnostic, remote and guidance services. Blue Link brings connectivity directly into the car with technologies like Google Home®, Remote Start with Climate Control, Destination Search powered by Google®, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. Blue Link features can be accessed via buttons on the rearview mirror, the MyHyundai.com web portal, the Blue Link smartphone app, Amazon® Alexa Blue Link skill and using the Blue Link Google Assistant app. Some features can also be controlled via Android Wear™ and Apple Watch™ smartwatch apps.
Kona is named after the idyllic west-coast region of the Big Island of Hawaii. The Kona region is famous among endurance triathletes and thrill-seeking travelers, and this energetic image is further reflected in the innovative and functional design of this lifestyle-focused CUV.

So you’re in the market for a minivan. And let me guess; you’re debating between the Honda Odyssey and the Chrysler Pacifica. Both are excellent choices but I prefer the Pacifica; it has superior styling, a smarter interior and a plug-in option, how cool is that? I last reviewed the Pacific Hybrid a couple of years ago when it first hit the market but here’s what’s new and what you should now before purchase.