Model Tested: 2017 Kia Sorento SXL AWD Engine: 3.3-liter V-6, 290 horsepower 252 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 17-mpg city/23-mpg highway/19-mpg combined Base Price: $45,700 As Tested: $46,990 Performance: Smooth V-6 engine and 6-speed automatic Pleasant highway ride Drive modes: … read more
Model Tested: 2017 Mazda6 I Grand Touring Engine: 2.5-liter I-4, 184 horsepower 185 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 27-mpg city/35-mpg highway/30-mpg combined Base Price: $30,695 As Tested: $34,695 Performance: Integrated Skyactiv technology is more than a sales slogan—it really works … read more
Model Tested: 2017 Fiat 500 Abarth Hatchback Engine: 1.4-liter turbocharged I-4, 160 horsepower 183 lb-ft torque Transmission: 5-speed manual, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 28-mpg city/33-mpg highway/30-mpg combined Base Price: $19,995 As Tested: $22,975 Performance: Quick and nimble go-kart handling Darts through traffic Dual exhaust … read more
One of the fun things about writing this column is that from issue to issue, I never know exactly what I will encounter on a visit to Jim’s Classic Garage in Gig Harbor. This month is a great example. In the shop was … read more
Model Tested: 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring RF Engine: Skyactiv-G 2-liter, DOHC 4-cylinder — 155 HP; 148 lb.-ft. of torque Transmission: Skyactiv 6-speed manual EPA Ratings: 26/city, 33/highway, 29/combined Base Price: $32,620 As Tested: $33,885 Overview: The Mazda MX-5 Miata was completely … read more
Model Tested: 2017 Lexus NX 200t F-Sport Engine: 2-liter turbo, 16-valve, DOHC, dual VVT-IW — 235 HP; 258 lb.-ft. of torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, w/dynamic torque control AWD EPA Ratings: 22/city, 27/highway, 24/combined Base Price: $38,585 As Tested: $46,439 Overview: The 2017 Lexus … read more
Model Tested: 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 AWD LTZ Crew Cab Engine: 6.2-liter V-8 Ecotec3 Transmission: 8-speed automatic EPA Ratings: 15/city, 20/highway, 17/combined Base Price: $47,175 As Tested: $60,020 Overview: The full-size 2017 Chevy Silverado holds its own in a power and styling battle … read more
