First Impressions
As soon as the test cars arrive, we can't wait to get behind the wheel and give viewers a first impression of the latest vehicles to hit the MotorWeek lot.
Most Recent First Impressions
2018 Buick LaCrosse eAssist Episode 3749
We’re clearly heading into a future of cars powered by electricity in one form or another. This 2018 Buick LaCrosse eAssist is part of that progression. GM calls it “light electrification”… a small electric motor, a 24-cell lithium-ion battery pack, and a 194-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas…
2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn Episode 3747
When we test small sporty cars we always seem to come back to the Volkswagen Golf as the benchmark. The 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn adds one more reason we feel that way. The original GTI started the hot hatch wave in the U.S. as the 1983 Rabbit GTI with a mere 90-horsepower. My how times have…
2019 Jaguar I-PACE Episode 3747
Well, it looks like there is finally some real competition for Tesla’s Model X SUV EV, and it’s from an unexpected place. Jaguar, and their 2019 I-PACE. Yes, not only has the oft-struggling brand been reborn with Indian ownership, but it’s forging ahead with an all-electric utility vehicle. A long…
2018 Nissan Kicks Episode 3746
The 2018 Nissan Kicks is aimed at youthful Americans. We witnessed the concept at the 2014 São Paulo Motor Show. Now in production, Nissan’s smallest crossover clearly has the family’s features. Replacing the quirky Juke in Nissan’s U.S. ute lineup, the all-new Kicks is underpinned by Nissan’s global…
2019 Lexus ES Episode 3746
We’ve long appreciated the comfort and sophistication of the Lexus ES mid-size luxury sedan, but wished there was a little more sport in the equation. Well Lexus listened, and now offers the all-new 2019 Lexus ES 350 in its performance-cued F Sport trim. That means a unique grille, 19-inch wheels, and…
2018 Hyundai Kona Episode 3745
Hyundai is catching the wave of subcompact utes with a “far out” look and a name inspired by the big island of Hawaii… the 2018 Kona. The ruggedly sporty looking package launches Hyundai’s new SUV styling direction…while also borrowing ideas from others. We can see elements of both the ill-fated…
2019 Honda Insight Episode 3745
The all-new, 2019 Honda Insight is a big step in the company’s renewed efforts to drive green, without looking like a tree hugger. The Toyota Prius holds most folk’s hybrid attention, but Honda was actually first in the U.S. market with the quirky 3-door, hatchback, 2000 Insight. In 2009, the second…
2019 Subaru Ascent Episode 3743
The 2019 Subaru Ascent mid-size crossover is the biggest Subaru yet, and the brand’s second attempt in the 3-row utility market. Remember the 2006 B9 Tribeca? It’s polarizing front end inspired by Subaru’s aviation history was a big turn-off. A refresh in 2008 brought toned-down looks… but not much…
2019 Acura RDX Episode 3743
The GPS guided us to Whistler, British Columbia in the 2019 Acura RDX. When it arrived for 2007, we all raved about Acura’s small luxo utility with turbo power that was also a blast to drive. But it didn’t sell very well. By the second generation, it became even more luxurious, but also more bland.…
2019 Hyundai Veloster Episode 3741
The road leads to Austin, Texas and the all-new 2019 Hyundai Veloster. The quirky 2+1 door bodystyle remains, as this second generation gets a little longer and wider. A 147-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder is the standard power. Naturally, we opted for the 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder good for 201…