The statistical evidence from 2021 is quite compelling. According to the IEA, China sold more EVs than the entire world sold in 2020, tripling its already substantial EV sales. Europe increased its EV sales by two thirds, while U.S. sales doubled after two consecutive years of 10% declines. China sold 3.3 million EVs, 2.3 million were sold in Europe, and just 630,000 were sold in the United States. The sales figures represent market shares of 17% in Europe, 16% in China, and 4.5% in the United States. Out of 16.5 million EVs estimated to be on the road, China’s fleet accounted for 7.8 million. EV adoption in China continued to accelerate dramatically in the first quarter of 2022, doubling the sales figures recorded during the first quarter of 2021.

The report also states that a large percentage of China’s EVs are battery electric vehicles (BEVs) rather than less efficient plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), many of which fail to generate significant reductions in tailpipe carbon dioxide. In 2021, fully electric BEVs made up a whopping 82% of the new EVs sold in China, while European sales of EVs were evenly split between BEVs and PHEVs. BEVs accounted for 75% of U.S. EV sales in 2021, where increasing Tesla sales dominate the green auto market. The percentages are fairly consistent with long-term trends. The IEA estimates that, in China, 80% of the existing EVs on the road in 2021 were BEVs, 55% of existing European EVs were BEVs, and 65% of existing U.S. EVs were BEVs.

The IEA cites a variety of forces that are driving the dramatic rise in global EV sales. The agency views sustained government policy support as a primary cause, noting that many countries have now pledged to phase out internal combustion engines, and that subsidies and incentives for EVs nearly doubled in 2021, rising to almost $30 billion. They also credit bold electrification pledges from automakers, some of which exceed government targets, and ongoing efforts to roll out new EV models. The IEA estimates that 450 EV models were available in 2021, five times the number that were available in 2015.

The rapid acceleration of EV adoption in China is not entirely surprising. In the report’s Executive Summary, the IEA states that, “In China, electric cars are typically smaller than in other markets. This, alongside lower development and manufacturing costs, has contributed to decreasing the price gap with conventional cars. In 2021, the sales-weighted median price of EVs in China was only 10% more than that of conventional offerings, compared with 45-50% on average in other major markets.” They go on to say that China has rolled out new charging infrastructure faster than other regions. Chinese consumers also had 300 EV models to choose from, compared with 184 in Europe and only 65 in the United States.

China is often portrayed as a laggard in the international effort to defeat climate change, but their extraordinary EV adoption rates tell a different story.

The 2023 Acura Integra has a starting price of only $30,800, plus a destination fee of $1,095. In A-Spec form, the 2023 Integra begins at $32,800, while the A-Spec with Technology Package has a starting price of $35,800, with a CVT continuously variable transmission, or with a slick shifting 6 speed manual transmission. I got the stick trans.

This week Acura sent me a 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec Technology Edition Sport Sedan with a base window sticker price of $35,800. The only option on the test car is the liquid carbon metallic paint job for $500. The MSRP manufacturer’s suggested retail price, including the $1,095 destination charge, is $37,395.

After adding in the state and local sales tax, plus the DMV and dealer fees, the total out the door and in your driveway purchase price came to: $42,070. This a great price for a sports sedan and is $6,000+ under the average transaction sale price of $48,300. Now you can get an 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec Technology Edition Sport Sedan for a bargain price for only $42 Grand.

Power for the 2023 Acura Integra comes from a potent DOHC dual overhead cam 1.5L liter turbocharged 4 cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, that’s bolted up to a 6 speed manual transmission, sending power thru a limited slip FWD front wheel drive differential. An adaptive damper system, plus a multi-link suspension system, with electric power steering, tie all the systems together for a sporty ride with quick handling and superior braking.

What does A-Spec mean for Acura? The Acura A-Spec package features more aggressive interior and exterior accents that take inspiration from track focused cars, and most models have a selection of extra comfort and convenience items. The A-Spec package contains model topping premium features with: A-Spec exclusive exterior and interior styling with red and chrome A-Spec logo badges, LED fog lights, a rear deck lid spoiler, sport pedals, and a set of 18″ split 5 spoke alloy wheels with 235/40 R18″ all season tires.

The Technology Package includes: an Acura studio premium audio system with 16 speakers, sport seats with micro suede inserts, the AcuraLink communication system, head up display, wireless phone charging, front and rear parking sensors, low speed braking control, and rain sensing windshield wipers.

The AcuraWatch features adds: adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and road departure mitigation. Acura cars have a suite of driver assist technologies and safety features, designed to help prevent car accidents, and increase driver awareness. The core features of AcuraWatch are the collision mitigation systems that are all working together to keep you safe and in control all the time.

The 2023 Acura Integra is a fun to drive compact car. The 6 speed manual transmission is silky smooth to shift, and it gets 26 MPG in the city, 36 MPG in highway cruising, and 30 MPG in combined driving. The CVT, constant velocity automatic transmission, if you decide to go that route, gets around 32 to 33 MPG in combined driving. Note that all Integra models are FWD front wheel drive, and come standard with the CVT trans. Buy the manual transmission Integra, while you still can, as stick shift cars are fading fast.

Is the Acura Integra a fast car? The top speed of the Acura Integra is 135 MPH miles per hour, to go along with a 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 4.5 seconds. The 2023 Acura Integra has the same USA built engine that’s in the Honda Civic Si, with more luxury features and comfort, and it’s built in the Marysville, Ohio assembly plant in the USA.

When you’re ready to buy a new compact sedan, the 2023 Acura Integra Sport Sedan should be on your ride and drive list, as it’s one of the best priced and optioned sedans for sale in the compact class. Call, click or visit your local Acura dealer for a test drive, and a Bottom Line price review, on the all new 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec Technology Edition Sport Sedan. And remember, that the base price for a new Integra starts at only $30,800. Acura – Precision Crafted Performance.

Be smart, stay safe, and just breathe. Remember, “You Are What You Drive”© And maybe, just for those reasons alone, you should “Drive one, Buy one, Today”©.

This Bottom Line new vehicle review is a “Nut & Bolt and Dollars & Sense”© editorial  provided by Tony Leopardo. “Tony the Car Guy”© is an automotive writer, editor and publisher in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a question, or comment for Tony, send it to tonyleo@pacbell.net and visit AutoWire.Net at www.autowire.net 

To be competitive you have to have a model line up that has to look good, and be the best in performance, comfort and drivability, and it has to deliver all these elements at a great price. The Signature Edition comes with a gloss black grille with red accents, a chrome black wing, and 19” black alloy wheels, with all the right stuff for that special look, that makes this model stand out from the crowd.

With a starting price of just over $26,000 for the base model, to the Turbo Signature Edition that I tested at just over $41,000, the Mazda CX-5 delivers a luxury level ride, with an entry level price tag. With beautiful body work, extra comfort, and the leather and wood accented interior, this car feels right at home at the Country Club, or at Costco.

To prove that point, this week Mazda sent me a 2023 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo AWD Signature SUV, with a base price of $39,650 on the window sticker, for this near top of the line model. The 2 options on the press car are: the Soul Red Crystal metallic paint for $595, and the rear bumper guard cover for $135. The MSRP manufacturer’s suggested retail price, including the $1,275 destination charge, is only $41,655.

After adding in the state and local sales tax, plus the DMV and dealers fees, the total out the door and in your garage purchase price came to: $46,862. This number is just below the average transaction sale price of all vehicles sold in the US, which is now at $48,300. To be a number one seller in its class, price is a big part of the equation, and the 2023 Mazda CX-5 delivers the best bang for the buck in the compact SUV sales class.

It starts with the Skyactiv 2.5L liter turbocharged engine that makes 227 HP horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is bolted to a Skyactiv drive 6 speed automatic transmission with sport mode, that sends power into a Mi-Drive AWD traction control system, with on road, off road and sport select driving modes. The dynamics on this Turbo AWD model are a constant reminder that the car has total control on the road, at all speeds, in all weather conditions, all the time, 24/7/365.

The Signature Edition adds interior ambiance with LED lighting, front and rear parking sensors, a 360 degree camera, driver attention alert, reverse smart city brake support and a head up display to help you keep your eyes on the road. Then add in Nappa leather seating, an 8 way driver’s seat, a power passenger seat, active driving display, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a drivers attention alert system with Mazda connected services.

Technology is at the top of the class with: LED headlights with auto on and off, adaptive front end lighting, a 10.25″ color center stack display screen, a wireless phone charging pad, a Bose AM/FM/HD/Satellite sound system with 10 speakers, Bluetooth connectivity with 4 USB inputs, SiriusXM radio with traffic and travel services, a frameless auto dimming rear view mirror with Homelink, the Mazda navigation system with traffic sign recognition, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, rear cross traffic alert, and automatic braking in reverse, just to name a few of the best features.

The Mazda CX-5 is one impressive premium SUV. With AWD all wheel drive available on every model, turbo power, and innovative safety enhancement features, the Mazda CX-5 is a joy to drive. Today the target market for Mazda are buyers that are: younger, more affluent, better educated, are a bit more diverse, with the propensity for premium products, all at a better price then the competition.

So, when you’re ready to buy a new compact crossover SUV, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 should be on your ride and drive list, as it’s one of the best priced and optioned crossover SUV’s for sale in the compact class. Call, click or visit your local Mazda dealer for a test drive, and a Bottom Line price review, on the 2023 Mazda CX-5 Signature SUV. And remember, the base price for a new CX-5 starts at only $25,700. Mazda – Feel Alive.

Be smart, stay safe, and just breathe. Remember, “You Are What You Drive”© And maybe, just for those reasons alone, you should “Drive one, Buy one, Today”©.

This Bottom Line new vehicle review is a “Nut & Bolt and Dollars & Sense”© editorial  provided by Tony Leopardo. “Tony the Car Guy”© is an automotive writer, editor and publisher in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a question, or comment for Tony, send it to tonyleo@pacbell.net and visit AutoWire.Net at www.autowire.net 

Welcome Ferrari to the once-off-limits core of prestigious carmakers clamoring for a market share.

Joining the Aston Martin DBX, Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the 2023 Ferrari Purosangue is expected to debut in July. It’s a rare double for the Italian carmaker — a new model and its first SUV.

Introduced last September, the most controversial vehicle in Ferrari history, delayed for more than two years became of Covid-19, will further add to the ever-expanding saturation of SUVs crowding highways.

But what exactly would Enzo Ferrari, the vehicle’s namesake founder who died in 1988, have to say about a Ferrari for wealthy soccer moms and with one of the worst car names in history? Less shocking but also formerly non-Ferrari-like, what’s with the four doors and four seats?

Considering his competitive nature, the founding Ferrari may have come around to an SUV considering his competitive nature. But what about the vehicle’s name? It’s pronounced with four syllables, “PUR-o-SAN-gue,” with the first and third syllables emphasized. But who knows what he would thought about such pedestrian and unnecessary features that come in fours?

An offshoot of Puro Sangue Orientale, the car’s name is Italian for Oriental Purebred, a specialized horse breed introduced in the late 1800s. Ferrari traditions include its branding most often referred to as the “Prancing Pony.” It’s been Ferrari’s insignia since 1932 and thus the continuation of the name theme.

While Purosangue may not be as bad as some, it joins the dubious name legions with its brand mate Ferrari LaFerrari, the Volkswagen Tiguan and oddballs like the Peugeot Bipper Tipee Outdoor and the Toyota Deliboy.

According to the manufacturer, the Purosangue will be made with the same platform as the Ferrari Roma coupe. It will be equipped with a 6.5-liter V12 with 715 horsepower and 528 pound-feet of torque. The carmaker is promoting the car as capable of achieving 0-62 miles per hour in 3.3 seconds. The top speed in the all-wheel-drive-only crossover is 193 miles mph.

Unique is the use of the electric motor system to apply the dampers while cornering and curtailing body roll. It also has front-opening “suicide” rear doors. Its base price is estimated at $400,000.

Unlike other manufacturers that tout vehicles with five-passenger capacity, the new Ferrari can’t fudge. All four seats, two in both the front and back, are bucket-style.

Most of the car’s controls are operated through the steering wheel, revealing an odd look. There’s no center-mounted infotainment touchscreen. But the front season passenger has access to only a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster and same-size screen.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. But an in-dash navigation system is absent.

The Purosangue also comes standard with automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, automatic high-beam headlamps, adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning and lane-keep assistance. A darkening full-length glass roof is optional.

Ferrari interiors are top-line. The hand-stitched front seats have a massage feature, while front and back seats are heated. A concert-mimicking Burmester 3D High-End Surround Sound System is unequaled.

It’s all part of Ferrari’s SUV future. Will the Purosangue succeed? Or will it fail as an overthought SUV with a hefty price, a funky name and only a few buyers who care?

James Raia, a syndicated columnist in Sacramento, publishes a free weekly automotive podcast and electronic newsletter. Sign-ups are available on his website, theweeklydriver.com. He can be reached via email: james@jamesraia.com.

The new battery sourcing requirements are designed to end U.S. reliance on foreign supply chains, but a sufficient supply of locally sourced battery materials will be difficult to obtain during the early years of the program. While the sourcing requirements apply to BEVs and PHEVs in a uniform way, it will be easier to qualify PHEVs for the tax credit because of their much smaller batteries.

PHEVs are hybrid powertrains that can be powered exclusively by gasoline but can also travel short distances using electricity imported to a small battery. In order for a PHEV to qualify for the same generous tax credit as a fully electric BEV, the new rules are quite lenient, requiring just a 7 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery. The batteries in BEVs are much larger. The standard Tesla Model 3 comes with a 50 kWh battery, and the dual-motor long-range and performance versions use 82 kWh batteries. The long-range version of the Ford F-150 Lightning requires a 131 kWh battery.

Faced with a limited supply of qualified battery materials, automakers that market BEVs and PHEVs will likely respond by prioritizing the smaller batteries in their PHEVs, securing the tax credit for these models as soon as possible. Even if they develop new supply chains quickly, it will be a couple of years before they can begin qualifying the larger batteries in their BEVs. Tesla currently sells the vast majority of U.S. BEVs and does not manufacture PHEVs. The company has already started developing domestic supply chains and is believed to be in a strong position to satisfy the sourcing requirements.

Sadly, the new rules allow PHEVs to qualify for the tax credit even when they do not provide significant reductions in tailpipe carbon dioxide. The Jeep Wrangler 4xe PHEV is a good example. It currently qualifies for the full $7,500 credit. The Environmental Protection Agency’s fueleconomy.gov website states that the PHEV’s 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine gets just 20 miles per gallon, which is significantly worse than the Wrangler EcoDiesel’s 3.0 liter 6-cylinder engine, which delivers 25. When running on electricity, the Wrangler 4xe has a modest electric range of 22 miles and earns an MPGe rating of just 49, which is significantly worse than the least efficient BEV, an Audi e-tron S with an MPGe rating of 63. Toyota’s disqualified RAV4 Prime has an electric range of 42 miles and is almost twice as efficient as the Wrangler 4xe, earning a respectable MPGe rating of 94 and an MPG of 38.

The Treasury Department will implement the complicated new tax rules and is expected to announce specific administrative procedures by the end of the year.

As the Audi RS 3 is a high performance compact luxury sedan, it has probably changed the entire hot hatch class forever. Audi’s 2.5L liter 5 cylinder 401 HP horsepower RS3 was built for the race track, but is comfortable enough to drive on a daily basis, and it’s longer, wider and meaner than before. It has flared fenders, big wheels and tires, over 400 HP horsepower, and boasts a new electronic rear differential that enables a drift mode.

This week Audi sent me a 2022 RS 3 sport sedan to test drive and review. The base window sticker price for this RS 3 model starts at $58,900. The options on the press car are: the RS technology package for $2,750, the RS sport exhaust system with black exhaust pipe tips for $1,000, the Black Optic Plus package for $750, and the Audi side view with rear cross traffic assist package for $350.

The MSRP manufacturer’s suggested retail price, including the $1,095 destination charge, came to: $64,845. After adding in the state and local sales tax, plus the DMV and dealer fees, the total out the door and in your garage purchase price came to: $72,951. At just under $73 Grand this Audi RS 3 high performance compact sedan is right at the top of the class for speed, handling, and comfort, in a 401 HP horsepower car.

The Audi RS 3 is wicked fast and has the suspension to match the power, and it comes with a substantial brake package, right from the factory. The front and rear disc brake rotors are huge, and have red painted calipers. The front discs are ventilated steel 375 mm rotors, with 310 mm rear disc brake rotors, and has a set of 6 piston front disc brake calipers as standard equipment. This RS 3 can stop on a dime, and still give you change.

The Audi RS 2.5L liter inline 5 cylinder engine is mated to an ultra responsive 7 speed dual clutch automatic transmission with Quattro AWD all wheel drive, and this driveline gets the RS 3 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, on its way to a governor limited top speed of 159 mph. The formula for being really quick is simple: take a lightweight car, put in a big and powerful engine, add the tires, brakes and suspension to control the speed and handling, and you have a super fast hot hatch sedan.

This is an Audi, so luxury and technology are a big part of the package. The RS 3 has front power, adjustable lumbar, and heated, Nappa leather front seats with honeycomb stitching, a panoramic sunroof, dashboard carbon fiber trim inlays, the Audi smartphone interface, Audi cruise control with lane guidance, Audi drive select with road modes, an Audi virtual cockpit dashboard, LED interior lighting, Homelink garage door openers, heated, auto dimming, power folding, exterior mirrors with memory, parking assist sensors, a 40/20/40 split folding rear seat with power lumbar, and a 3 spoke multifunction leather wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters and a RS power mode button.

Tech upgrades include: a head up display with traffic sign recognition, an Audi Plus navigation system, a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system with 3D sound, an RS sport exhaust system with black exhaust tips, the Black Optic plus package with a set of 19″ five Y spoke design alloy wheels in a matte black finish, black Audi logo rings, black Audi badges, a black painted roof, and the Audi side assist with rear cross traffic assist package. The Black Optic plus package makes the RS 3 look as sinister as it is fast.

When you’re ready to buy a new hot hatch, the 2022 Audi RS 3 Luxury Edition sedan should be on your ride and drive list, as it’s one of the fastest and capable sport sedans for sale in the hot hatch class. Call, click or visit your local Audi dealer for a test drive, and a Bottom Line price review, on the 2022 Audi RS 3 Sport Sedan. And remember, that the base price for a new RS starts at only $58,900. Audi – Advancement through Technology.

Be smart, stay safe, and just breathe. Remember, “You Are What You Drive”© And maybe, just for those reasons alone, you should “Drive one, Buy one, Today”©.

This Bottom Line new vehicle review is a “Nut & Bolt and Dollars & Sense”© editorial  provided by Tony Leopardo. “Tony the Car Guy”© is an automotive writer, editor and publisher in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a question, or comment for Tony, send it to tonyleo@pacbell.net and visit AutoWire.Net at www.autowire.net 

Global debuts of the newest Aston Martin, Hummer and Porsche are fine. Concept cars are great, although many may never be made for consumers. The latest electric vehicle innovations are the industry’s future. But much was made of the Bollinger, Byton, Canoo and Elio and none have been manufactured.

The 115th Los Angeles Auto Show will be held Nov. 18-26 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Charge Cars, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, ElectraMeccanica, Fiat, Genesis, GMC, Hummer, Hyundai, INDI EV, Jaguar, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Porsche, Subaru, Supernal (Advanced Air Mobility), Volkswagen and Volvo will have all exhibits.

But arguably the best bets, the most consistent, the cars for the Every Person, are presented every year. New models from the top 10 best-selling vehicles from 2021 will all be presented.

Ford continued its dominance with the F-Series pickups accounting for 726,004 sales. The Ram pickup (569,388), Chevrolet Silverado (519,774), Toyota RAV-4 (407,739), Honda CR-V (361,271), Toyota Camry (313,795), Nissan Rogue (285,602), Jeep Cherokee (264,444), Toyota Highlander (264,128) and Honda Civic (263,787) completed the top-10.

Despite the continuing chip shortage and Covid-19 ramifications, only the Chevrolet Silverado (down 13 percent), Ford F-Series pickup trucks (8 percent) and Toyota RAV4 (5 percent) had lower sales tallies in 2021 than in 2020.

Manufacturers aren’t required to detail what vehicles will be shown at the LA Auto Show. Some new offerings have been announced, others will be unveiled as late as the week of the show.

Honda recently announced the public availability of the 315-horsepower 2023 Civic Type R. It’s the most powerful production vehicle the manufacturer has ever made, and it will have a starting MSRP of $42,895.

Toyota has eliminated the V6 Highlander, replacing it for 2023 with a 2.4-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder. The new model will also feature new multimedia dashboard-area screens and a new exterior paint choice, Cypress Green.

Charge cars is a new addition to the show. It will convert 500 1967 Ford Mustangs fastback models. The restoration and electrification will include an electric drivetrain comprised of four motors, producing 536 horsepower and 1,120 lb-ft of torque.

The customized Mustangs are touted to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than four seconds. The top speed is 150 miles per hour. The electric range is predicted at 150 mph.

One interesting concept, with a manufacturer’s “promise” of public availability in 2023, is the Ram Revolution. The new full-size trucks will measure 220 to 244 inches long and have 159-200+ kWh battery packs for about 500 miles of range.

VinFast, promoted as the first Vietnamese manufacturer to offer vehicles in the United States, debuted last year at the show, with a lavish presentation. It will return as the company continues its financing and manufacturing plans.

According to its marketing, VinFast in Vietnamese stands for “Style, Safety, Creativity, Pioneer.” Its vehicles are touted as “the product of our inspiration to launch a distinctive, world-class automotive brand with Vietnam and demonstrates the ability of the Vietnamese people to skillfully implement cutting-edge technology.”

The LA Auto Show will have public test drives and ride alongs of new vehicles indoors and outdoors. Beyond cars and trucks, urban air mobility, electric scooters and electric bikes will also be showcased.

Tickets will be cashless, with a variety of individual, family, group, military, first responders and VIP packages available online and at on-site kiosks. For additional information, visit: www.laautoshow.com.

James Raia, a syndicated columnist in Sacramento, publishes a free weekly automotive podcast and electronic newsletter. Sign-ups are available on his website, theweeklydriver.com. He can be reached via email: james@jamesraia.com.

Fully redesigned for 2022, the Lexus NX lineup includes a mix of gas powered, mild hybrid, and for the first time, a plug-in hybrid model. The 2022 NX 350h represents the conventional mild hybrid, pairing a 4 cylinder gas engine, with dual electric motors, and replaces the outgoing NX 300h model.

How far can the 2022 Lexus NX go on a full tank of gas? The NX has a maximum range of over 590 miles in the NX 350h AWD all wheel drive edition. This means drivers can enjoy more miles per gallon with one single tank of gas. This is the most fuel efficient, non plug-in model Lexus sells, and it can travel up to 18 miles on electric power alone. The greenhouse gas rating is an 8, and the smog rating is a 7, both out of 10.

The Lexus NX Hybrid is a great SUV. As a mild hybrid the battery provides enough power for driving the car at slower speeds, like in residential areas, near schools, and city driving. The Lexus NX 350h Hybrid is highly fuel efficient when compared to other luxury hybrid SUV’s, with swift acceleration, and a first rate cabin. This hybrid gets 41 MPG city, 37 highway, and 39 MPG in combined driving. Fantastic MPG for an SUV.

This week Lexus sent me a 2022 Lexus NX 350h Luxury Edition AWD Hybrid SUV to test drive and review. The base window sticker price for this 350h model is $48,500. The options on the press SUV are: the digital interior mirror for $200, the 60/40 heated and power folding rear seats for $1,030, the triple beam headlamps and cornering lamps with washers for $850, the Mark Levinson premium audio system with 17 powered speakers for $1,020, a panoramic moonroof for $500, the panoramic view monitors for lane changing and front cross traffic assist for $1,070, the advanced parking assist package for $480, the smart phone convenience package for $450, a set of Lexus wheel locks for $95, the rear seat entertainment package for $110, rear and side puddle lamps for $325, illuminated door sills for $460, a rear bumper protector for $130, and the carpeted cargo mat for $110.

The MSRP manufactures suggested retail price, including the $1,075 destination charge, is: $56,405. After adding in the state and local sales tax, plus the DMV and dealer fees, the total out the dealers door and in your garage purchase price came to: $63,456.

At just over $63K this Lexus subcompact luxury crossover SUV has all the right stuff. Hybrid drivetrain with great overall fuel economy, check. A luxury leather interior with a fabulous Mark Levinson sound system, check, and the technology, safety, handling and the prestige of a Lexus, for way less than all of the German competition combined.

To get to this level of sophistication we start with a 2.5L liter hybrid gas engine, paired with a larger battery pack and more powerful electric motors, for a total of 240 HP horsepower. This engine is bolted to a CVT continuously variable transmission, that sends power into an AWD all wheel drive computer controlled driveline, for superior traction, control and stability.

Comfort and luxury starts with a set of heated and power adjustable leather trimmed front bucket seats, a leather trimmed steering wheel, a dual zone automatic climate control system with interior air filters, a 7″ full color center stack display screen, an auto dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink garage door openers, a full set of carpeted floor mats, and a rear cargo tonneau cover to hide all your valuables from prying eyes.

When you’re ready to buy a new subcompact luxury crossover SUV, the 2022 Lexus NX 350h Luxury Edition AWD Hybrid SUV should be on your ride and drive list, as it’s one of the best subcompact SUV’s for sale in America. Call, click or visit your local Lexus dealer for a test drive, and a Bottom Line price review, on the NX 350h luxury hybrid SUV. And remember, that the base price for a new NX 350h starts at only $41,550.

Lexus – Let’s Go Places.

Be smart, stay safe, and just breathe. Remember, “You Are What You Drive”© And maybe, just for those reasons alone, you should “Drive one, Buy one, Today”©.

This Bottom Line new vehicle review is a “Nut & Bolt and Dollars & Sense”© editorial  provided by Tony Leopardo. “Tony the Car Guy”© is an automotive writer, editor and publisher in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a question, or comment for Tony, send it to tonyleo@pacbell.net and visit AutoWire.Net at www.autowire.net 

Jeep builds and sells only SUV sport utility vehicles, crossovers, Wrangler’s, and the Gladiator pickup truck. Jeep owners know that the – Go Anywhere – Do Anything – tagline is a way of life, not just a sales slogan, as driving a Jeep everyday is a lifestyle.

Jeep Grand Cherokee production began at the Jefferson North Assembly plant in Detroit in April of 1992, as an early 1993 model year vehicle, and there was only one drive line available. Today the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee has 3 engine options to pick from.

The standard engine on all models is the 3.6L liter Pentastar V6 gas engine. New for the 2022 model year is the hybrid 4xe powertrain that brings electrification to Jeep’s midsize SUV. The top of the line engine option is still the legendary 5.7L liter HEMI V8 motor that produces 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque.

With the combination of the 4xe electric and gas engine, Jeep vehicles are now PHEV, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, with plenty of power for adventure. The 2.4L liter inline 4 cylinder turbo engine, combined with the electric motor, puts out an impressive 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of instant torque for heart pounding performance, on and off road, and is bolted to an 8 speed automatic transmission with AWD all wheel drive.

This week Jeep sent me a 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4xe Hybrid SUV to test drive and review. The base window sticker price for this model is $65,760. The options on the test SUV are: the metallic paint for $395, the luxury tech group IV for $2,155, the advanced Protech group III for $2,235, the black painted roof for $775, and the front passenger interactive display screen for $1,095.

The MSRP manufacturer’s suggested retail price, including the $1,795 destination charge, is: $74,210. After adding in the state and local sales tax, plus the DMV and dealer fees, the total out the door and in your garage purchase price came to: $83,486.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a starting price of $38,325, and can top out very close to $90 Grand, when outfitted with the full array of available equipment and upgrades. Most Grand Cherokee buyers go with the Laredo or Limited trim level, equipped in the $40,000 to $50,000 price range, as printed on the original factory window sticker.

Today there are 7 Jeep Grand Cherokee trim levels to choose from, and they are: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Trailhawk, Summit, and Summit Reserve. The press SUV is an Overland Edition with a base price of $65,760, right in the middle of the pack. The options list starts with the Napa leather seats, a rear view auto dimming digital display mirror, a wireless charging pad, power front bucket seats with massage and memory, rear window shades, and a 4 zone automatic temperature control system.

This 4xe model is a well optioned, fully capable 4×4 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with a plug-in hybrid system that can travel up to 25 miles on battery power alone. The combined driving gas mileage is 23 MPG, and it’s rated in the gas + electric range at 56 MPGe.

The Advanced Protech group adds active driving assist, head up display, intersection collision assist, night vision with pedestrian and animal detection, a surround view camera system, a backup camera with lens washer, an integrated off road camera, a map-in-cluster display system, a 10.1″ touch screen display with navigation, and a 19 speaker McIntosh high performance surround sound system, with a 950 watt powered amplifier.

The all new for 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a fantastic SUV. It offers a modern and high end interior, comfortable seating, a wealth of luxurious options, and a top notch infotainment system. It also combines great on road driving and handling dynamics, with extremely capable off road performance.

So, when you’re ready to buy a new SUV, the Jeep Grand Cherokee should be on your ride and drive list, as it’s one of the best midsize SUVs for sale in America. Call, click or visit your local Jeep dealer for a test drive, and a Bottom Line price review, on the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV. And remember, that the base price for a new Grand Cherokee starts at only $38,325. Jeep – Go Anywhere – Do Anything – Since 1941.

Be smart, stay safe, and just breathe. Remember, “You Are What You Drive”© And maybe, just for those reasons alone, you should “Drive one, Buy one, Today”©.

This Bottom Line new vehicle review is a “Nut & Bolt and Dollars & Sense”© editorial  provided by Tony Leopardo. “Tony the Car Guy”© is an automotive writer, editor and publisher in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a question, or comment for Tony, send it to tonyleo@pacbell.net and visit AutoWire.Net at www.autowire.net 

The coalition includes major environmental organizations like the National Resources Defense Council, the Union of Concerned Scientists, California Environmental Voters, and the Coalition for Clean Air. Because of the proposition’s substantial health benefits, it has the backing of the American Lung Association and the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments. Supportive organizations representing the EV community include the California Electric Transportation Coalition and Coltura. Labor organizations endorsing the proposition include the CalFire State Firefighters and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. The California Democratic Party supports the proposition, but Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom does not. Lyft has provided substantial funding for the Yes on 30 campaign, and Newsom has been featured in television commercials accusing the ridesharing company of greedy impropriety.

Proposition 30 would help Lyft meet its voluntary pledge of electrifying 100% of the independently owned vehicles operating on its platform by the year 2030. The progressive company has supported legislation in multiple states that would establish its aspirational goal as a legal mandate. Ridesharing vehicles represent a small percentage of California’s fleet, but they travel many more miles than average passenger vehicles, yielding significant environmental benefits when they are powered by electricity instead of gasoline. In May of 2021, California’s Air Resources Board adopted its Clean Miles Standard, which requires ridesharing companies to dispatch fleets that are 90% fully electric by 2030. Lyft is now obligated to comply with a legal mandate that it fully supports.

Conservative organizations working to defeat Proposition 30 are heavily focused on demonizing Lyft, but the strategy may fail to persuade thoughtful, informed voters. It seems reasonable to demand that ridesharing companies bear the financial burden of electrifying the independently owned vehicles that they dispatch, but it is difficult to argue that Lyft is scheming to steer a large portion of state revenue directly into its own coffers. Out of roughly $100 billion of revenue dispensed over 20 years, about $45 billion would help subsidize zero emission vehicles for consumers, businesses, and local governments. Ridesharing vehicles currently make up about 2.5% of vehicles registered in California, so only a small fraction of the rebates would go to drivers that might help Lyft fulfill its legal obligations. Roughly $35 billion would also be spent to help build public charging infrastructure, aiding Lyft indirectly as it works to decarbonize its operations by 2030.

The automotive industry is facing its own mandate from the Air Resources Board designed to phase out the sale of internal combustion vehicles by 2035, and Proposition 30 would help automakers achieve compliance with the challenging timeline. Lyft has an even earlier deadline to meet, and appears to benefit in a similar way.