2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV extended review

Big and little at the same time! I'm a fan of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV. 

The appearance of this vehicle is striking! Not because of boldness but the refined, confident, strong vibes it gives off. It is clearly a MAZDA! 

My test vehicle secured via DriveShop NYC arrived in the "pearl white" color. The CX-90 PHEV is a 7 passenger vehicle but handles and drives much smaller. 

At slow speeds it can feel tankish, however the performance is there to quickly move you along. Multiple driving modes (Sport, Normal, EV, Off-Road) are noticeable when engaged. The majority of the time was spent in normal mode and the functionality was fine. 

I enjoyed the seating surfaces, they were firm and comfortable. The rear "Captain chairs" were a big hit with the passengers. The drivers side is equipped with lumbar support and multifunctional/positional features. 

Lots of cup holders of various sizes suitable for beverage types for the 7 passengers. 

The CX-90 PHEV ergonomics make it easy for the driver to navigate the technology and preparing the vehicle for the road. 

The infotainment cluster is good, with lots of options. The connectivity with the Bluetooth was a bit wonky. Once connected there was a lengthy delay in making changes from station to station. Possibly a wifi issue but it happened on multiple occasions in different locations. 

I found the cameras to be very good and the birdseye/above the vehicle view is a fantastic addition especially when parallel parking. This along with the vehicles outward site lines, large windows and technology assists in making the CX-90 PHEV feel smaller, and the driver to feel safe and secure. 

The moon roof is a big hit for me. The functionality and operation were simple. The aerodynamics of the CX-90 PHEV are on display when the moon roof is is open. Hearing and communication with passengers was easy and comfortable.

On the road and at home charging options for EV's is growing.  EV's have some charging accessories included.  A large aftermarket network is available for those who do not want OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) products.  BE CAUTIOUS IN WHAT YOU CHOOSE.

Charging stations are being installed in various areas and more big box retailers are installing multiple units in parking lots.  Some lots are offering premium parking spaces for EV charging.  As the infrastructure continues to develop we will see more and more vehicles and charging stations to accommodate the progress.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/FpKJe3LYJ4Ze2Qoz7

24 Volvo S60 T8 Recharge extended review

Simple in appearance, refined, excellent comfort, performance in a non-flashy way!

Some thoughts about the 2024 Volvo S60 Recharge. 

My vehicle arrived in Thunder Gray and I so like this colorway.  Reminds me of a Battleship Gray but modernized. 

Immediate thoughts are how simple and clean the vehicle looks, nothing ostentatious here.

My reviews focus on the practicality and ease of use.  The Volvo S60 Recharge immediately made me feel comfortable and connected.  The varying seating positions are a big help in this area. I prefer driving with a feeling of being elevated in the cockpit. The S60 quickly allowed me to get into a comfortable position that worked for a 6 hour round trip highway drive.  The seating surfaces are firm but comfortable for me.  Seating space in the rear is fine for most adults, however I wouldn't expect 6' plus passengers to enjoy the space for long-term rides.

The Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system works nicely, provides wonderful clarity and the speakers have a nice look to them.

The interior mimic the style of the exterior.  Attention to detail and functionality are at the forefront.  Steering wheel controls are easy to find and utilize.  Google Assistant, Maps and Play are built-in and function well. The large screen acts a simple command center in addition to steering wheel mounted controls.  Connecting via Bluetooth was simple.  My test vehicle needed an software update which also went very smoothly with simple, clear and concise instructions. 

Safety and technology are very good, providing various camera views, automatic braking, Lane monitoring assistance etc.

Suggested prices begin at $43,095 for the CORE, $46,045 for the PLUS and $50,845 ULTIMATE.

Performance was plentiful and more than most people will need for regular use. If you do need to move quickly this vehicle will do it with ease.

MPG 40

https://photos.app.goo.gl/KXPs8xy2CA2KEbbY8

Electric Vehicles (EV) from a beginners perspective

Thank you for taking a few moments of your time to see what I've created.  No fluff, just my personal experiences and ways for you to connect and or engage. 

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I consider myself a concerned citizen and I want to do my part to improve the environment. 

Some suggest EV's or Electric Vehicles as a step in that direction.  This led me to take the redesigned 2022 Hyundai Kona EV Limited on a extended test/review ride. 

In appearance the Kona EV differs slightly from the gas powered version.  In particular the grill and colorways.  I enjoyed the subtle appearance with the paint and finish providing various tones and reflections depending on the light.  

The interior includes a leather trimmed steering wheel, heated and cooled seats, a 10.25 inch touch screen navigation as well as a wireless charging pad.  The Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go was a big hit for me.

(Manufacturers suggested retail price) MSRP $42,500 check for details about current incentives.

The Kona performance was more than adequate. With quick acceleration that reminded me of a go-kart.  Merging or passing was not an issue.  

The rear row is tight and may be considered cramped.  The rear cargo area is small. The 60/40 split seating helps.

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The ~380 mile trip is one I have done before.  I've taken the turnpike and other routes going or coming from Western PA., specifically Sharon PA for the Waterfire Sharon Art Event.

Immediately I noticed how the ergonomics led making seating, mirror, communication/navigation adjustments easy.

The steering wheel mounted controls were also fine with me. A little tricky getting used to the navigation menu and correspondence to the digital drivers screen.

I suggest some time familiarizing yourself with the regenerative breaking system which helps to "recharge' the battery.  The driver can adjust the levels.  In short when the accelerator pedal is released the vehicle brakes.  Again I reference a go-kart or a golf cart.

The Kona EV Limited was a hit for me. The appearance, amenities and functionality were right on.

This extended test/review ride gave me an insight to the infrastructure that is needed for EV - Electric Vehicles.  Several companies are leading the way and were prominent on my trip.  

Walmart stores were the most conveniently located charging areas.  I found using the apps available to be more efficient use of time.

This vehicle comes with a charging cable that can plug into a typical 220 outlet.  Charging times using this method are very slow.  Best for overnight use. 

In the near future I would expect most new construction projects to have some EV charging stations.  Pay attention to charging rates, kwh, charging speeds and be sure the vehicle is charging properly before/if you walk away.

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https://www.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/vehicles/kona-electric

https://www.waterfiresharonpa.org/