Author: Randy Stern

September 28, 2020

My Thoughts Exactly: 2020 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack

It took these past four years to reacquaint myself with one of the more powerful versions of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ North American modern muscle icon. Four years is a good amount of time to prepare myself to be taken away by an SRT-massaged "392" 6.4-liter V8 and its absolute thrust. Yet, I felt unprepared. Not even an F Performance Lexus helped in priming me from this massive blue hulk of thrust.

September 23, 2020

Rental Car Review: Going Forte Again

Kia is no exception. The recent introduction of the Optima replacement, the K5, is one piece of evidence that Kia wants to continue to sell sedans. This is a strategy the company is executing, while they are expanding their SUV portfolio.

September 21, 2020

#VOTY2020 Is NOT Cancelled!

Getting to the #VOTY is the hard part. Each candidate vehicle receives a full evaluation of the format, metrics, and process is undertaken. These numbers are crunched and are presented to a Short List for panel evaluation. Then, a list of finalists is available for your vote. It is that simple.

September 20, 2020

Commentary: The New Z

The unveiling of the Z Proto was proof that Nissan was committed to the continuation of a legacy. A legacy that cemented the intentions of the Yokohama-based company to be a different kind of automaker. Different, as in showing a sporty side and making it their focus at a time when vehicles from Japan were attracting global customers in increasing numbers.

September 16, 2020

Commentary: (Not So) Silent Lucidity

Their one-and-a-half hour long video introducing the Lucid Air luxury electric sedan, along with the teasing of their SUV, certainly looked like a play to one-up on Tesla and Musk. Even if they did not acknowledge the elephant in Palo Alto and Fremont.

September 14, 2020

My Thoughts Exactly: 2021 Kia Seltos

The boost the multiple award-winning Telluride gave Kia needed a follow-up. They had to look down the size chain to find that inspiration. After all, customers also want smaller SUVs, as well.

September 13, 2020

Histroriography: The Pin-Up Star

Yet, no one ever heard of the poster's subject until they began showing up on many bedroom walls. Who have ever heard of the manufacturer? They made farm tractors before they made this sexy beast? And, where is Sant'Agata? Italy?!? Really?!?

September 9, 2020

My Thoughts Exactly: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Yes, the new 2020 Hyundai Sonata looks like a smash hit. It is a technologically advanced mid-size family sedan that needs to be. It is living proof that the sedan is far from erased off of the dealer lots of this country.

September 8, 2020

266.2 Inches of "Built Ford Tough"

While truck consumers are seeing the benefits of owning a civilized heavy duty pickup truck, it is still a work tool. To do the job of towing farm implements, horses, race cars, and to help rebuild pieces of roadway, you need to have the highest capacity possible to do these tasks easily.