ACURA NSX 2020 TEST DRIVE

When I think back to the thousands of car I’ve tested over the past 23 years, there’s a shortlist of those that have left an indelible impression; the ones I’ve placed in my fantasy garage and the NSX is one of them. This is no doubt a supercar but it’s arguably the most practical supercar you can buy. 0-to-60mph in 2.9 seconds with a top speed of 191 is enthralling and this powertrain just keeps pulling. And the way Acura has programmed the traction and stability control systems to scrub out unwanted wheel spin and keep the NSX pointed straight is very impressive. Loaded with all of the options including the extensive use of carbon fiber both inside and out, this car totals $191,995. Too bad you can’t get the Acura as a convertible…something all of its competitors offer. For me, this is a dream car.

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TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID PLATINUM AWD

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID PLATINUM AWD QUICK TAKES. Toyota made “hybrid” synonymous with high fuel efficiency more than 20 years ago. Later, Toyota introduced the first hybrid SUV in its class, the 2006 Highlander. Leave it to Toyota to again raise the bar for hybrid SUV functionality by making the 2020 model the most fuel-efficient Highlander Hybrid ever. The bottom line is an eye opener for the efficiency-minded: 243 total system horsepower and up to a manufacturer-estimated 36 combined MPG. The latter is a 24-percent improvement over the previous-generation Highlander Hybrid’s 29 combined MPG. Yet, Highlander Hybrid still delivers the everyday acceleration, power and responsiveness that family buyers expect. In another Highlander first, the hybrid is now available in either 2WD or AWD, further expanding hybrid technology to a new group of buyers.

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TOYOTA TUNDRA TRD PRO 2020 QUICK TAKES

TOYOTA TUNDRA TRD PRO 2020 QUICK TAKES
Powered for 2020 exclusively by the 5.7L i-FORCE V8 engine that offers up to 10,200 pounds of towing capacity and a maximum payload of 1,730 pounds, Tundra is ready to tackle the jobsite, a weekend cruise to the lake, or a multi-state family road trip. Available in Double Cab and CrewMax four-door cab styles, Tundra is offered in a plethora of configurations to fit just about any need.
Two distinct TRD packages combine chassis upgrades with unique style. The TRD Sport package is designed for more engaging on-road performance. The TRD look comes from a body-color surround for the grille, color-keyed mirrors, bumpers and hood scoop, and the truck rides on 20-inch silver-painted aluminum alloy wheels. Upgraded LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED fog lights complete the exterior.
Underneath, the TRD Sport package ups its handling game with TRD anti-sway bars and sport-tuned TRD Bilstein shocks. A TRD shift knob and floormats finish the look inside, and a TRD bedside graphic makes sure no one misses this custom-looking truck. The TRD Sport is available in Super White, Magnetic Gray, Midnight Blue Metallic, Voodoo Blue and Barcelona Red Metallic.
The TRD Off-Road package adds upgrades focused on off-highway driving. Trail-tuned monotube Bilstein shock absorbers are employed to soak up bumps, and 18-inch split five-spoke alloy wheels wear P275/65R18 tires. LED headlights and LED fog lights are added, and 4×2 models are equipped with engine and fuel tank skid plates and tow hooks (already standard equipment on 4x4s). TRD Off-Road floor mats and a TRD Off-Road bedside decal complete the look.

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VOLKSWAGEN JETTA R-LINE 2020 QUICK TAKES

Volkswagen R is all about excitement and thrill.
The Jetta R-Line takes the model’s dramatic styling a step further, with sporty 17-inch wheels, a more aggressive rear bumper with stylized dual exhaust outlets, a gloss-black grille, black side mirror caps, and R-Line® badging.
R-Line models feature a 6.5-inch capacitive touchscreen display.
R-Line models receive a unique leather-wrapped, R-Line badged steering wheel.
The Jetta R-Line is equipped with 17-inch wheels paired with 205/55 R17 low-profile all-season tires and the XDS® Cross Differential System. The XDS system acts as an electronic substitute for a traditional mechanical limited-slip differential, actively monitoring data from each wheel sensor. If the suspension becomes unloaded, the system automatically applies braking to the driven inside wheel as needed to help reduce understeer (the tendency for the front wheels to run wide). This not only helps the R-Line’s stability, but can also help improve handling and cornering performance.
Every Jetta model offers standard Driver Personalization with up to four driver settings. Dependent on trim, customizable features include: driver seat memory, drive mode selection, driver assistance system preferences, climate control, Volkswagen Digital Cockpit arrangement, ambient lighting color, radio presets, navigation view, and more.

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LEXUS RX 350 L 2020 QUICK TAKES

LEXUS RX 350 L 2020 QUICK TAKES. The pioneer of the luxury crossover segment is receiving an update – inside and out – for the 2020 model year. The new 2020 Lexus RX and RXL three row enhance both their elegance and captivating appeal through improved driving dynamics, an updated Lexus Multimedia System, additional standard safety features and elevated styling that bring a new sophistication to the RX lineup.

All 2020 Lexus RX models feature updated exterior styling that includes revised front and rear fascias and a new standard 18” wheel design. Triple-beam LED headlamps have also been redesigned as an option. Inside, an available 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with the remote touch pad supports added dynamic voice and navigation functionality. The updated Lexus Multimedia System now includes advanced in-dash technology to simplify a guest’s life, such as Apple CarPlay® integration for your iPhone.

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