By Don Hammonds
I admit that I’m a great admirer of Volkswagens.
Anytime I was given one to drive, I’ve always immediately fell in love with them for their snappy, crisp handling, and strong acceleration. They simply treats to pilot anywhere–and especially on highways.
But the Atlas, the company’s mid-sized SUV, is something else again.
It’s big, almost massive in how it presents itself. It has tons of room inside and given its cargo space, rugged looks, and crisp handling, it’s …
By Don Hammonds
Want to see a car company that’s “doing it right”?
Take a look at Mazda.
Mazda has always been a company that knows precisely what they are. No gimmicks. No chasing after what every other car maker is building.
Just a company with remarkable clarity about its identity and how they want to express us.
And what is amazing –at least to me–is that they do it quietly and a sense of assurance. They don’t need splashy this and showy that. They …
By Don Hammonds
It’s hard to stand out in a crowded SUV market.
So many products look the same, offer the same equipment, and provide pretty much the same benefits–and issues.
But Toyota has clearly set itself apart with the Highlander.
On top of all the terrific perks that you get with any Toyota–dependability, impeccable quality, longevity, high resale value–Toyota has bestowed a completely new look on the Highlander, which instantly helps distinguish this much-loved brand against its competitors.
Though …
By Don Hammonds
Wow. Who knew?
The Genesis brand, Hyundai’s classy luxury lineup, which has only been around for a couple of years as a separate entity, is serving notice on the stalwarts of the luxury market and basically telling them all, “Move the heck over–there’s a new sheriff in town and he’s got game!”
A newcomer to the midsized luxury sport field is giving the 3, (BMW 3 Series), the C (Mercedes C series) and the fours (Audi A4), a a real …
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid AWD SUV
By Donald Hammonds
Seldom have I seen a vehicle that has dramatically changed my entire outlook on things automotive.
I’m talking about my thoughts about SUVs in general, and my thoughts about a car company in particular–Toyota.
I am a self-confessed auto design maven. I live for good-looking automotive expressions. I loved the vast variety of styling expressions that used to be emblematic of the auto industry, a time which I fear may be gone for good for the …
