Bringing Back Magic

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

After a week with Acura’s hottest Integra, one thing becomes crystal clear: the Type S badge carries serious weight.

This $54,395 sport compact delivers an intoxicating blend of performance and practicality that justifies its premium positioning.

At the heart of this high-performance variant lies a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The motor pairs exclusively with a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential, creating an engaging driver’s car that excels on both road and track.

The clutch and shifter action is precise and perfectly weighted, making every gear change a rewarding experience.

While based on the same basic architecture as the Honda Civic Type R, the Integra Type S charts its own course with more sophisticated styling and a broader performance envelope.

The adaptive damping system offers some level of comfort when cruising while maintaining impressive body control during spirited driving. It’s a more mature take on the sport compact formula.

The 2025 Integra Type S maintains a subtle performance presence with its trunk-lid spoiler and wider stance, avoiding the shouty styling of some competitors.

The practical side of the equation is equally compelling. The five-door liftback design provides 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, rivaling some small SUVs. Rear passengers enjoy a generous 37.4 inches of legroom.

The cabin features standard niceties such as a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster, 9-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration and a premium 16-speaker ELS audio system.

There are some compromises. At highway speeds, road noise is more pronounced than expected in a luxury-branded vehicle. The interior materials and design, while nice, don’t quite match the car’s premium pricing. And despite the sophisticated powertrain, some buyers may wish for an all-wheel-drive option, particularly in snowy climates or to eke out slightly better cornering performance on the track.

Premium touches such as microsuede seat inserts and aluminum trim elevate the Type S cabin, though some materials feel more sporty than luxurious.

But these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise a thoroughly impressive performance car.

The Integra Type S successfully bridges the gap between hardcore sport compacts and luxury vehicles, offering stellar driving dynamics without boy-racer styling.

Its combination of performance, practicality and refinement makes it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a more grown-up alternative to traditional hot hatches.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Acura Integra Type S ($52,600). Options: Premium paint ($600). Price as tested (including $1,195 destination charge): $54,395

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 107.7 in.
Length: 186 in.
Width: 74.8 in.
Height: 55.4 in.
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder (320 hp, 310 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Six-speed manual
MPG: 21 city, 28 highway

RATINGS

Style: 9
Performance: 10
Price: 7
Handling: 10
Ride: 4
Comfort: 5
Quality: 9
Overall: 10

WHY BUY IT?

The Integra Type S delivers track-ready performance and everyday practicality in a sophisticated package. It’s a mature performance car that doesn’t sacrifice driving excitement.

Posted in Acura

Italian Flair Meets Efficiency

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale proves that the words “efficient” and “exciting” aren’t mutually exclusive in the crossover segment.

After a week with the Tributo Italiano special edition, it’s clear that Alfa Romeo has created something unique: a plug-in hybrid SUV that’s genuinely fun to drive.

At the heart of the Tonale is an innovative hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor to produce 285 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque.

Even more impressive than the raw numbers is the way this system operates, offering up to 33 miles of pure electric range while delivering a combined 77 MPGe when properly charged. Even running on gasoline alone, it manages a respectable 29 mpg.

But numbers tell only part of the story.

The Tonale’s real charm lies in its engaging driving dynamics. Sharp steering, responsive handling and a well-sorted chassis make this one of the most enjoyable crossovers to pilot. The dual-mode active suspension system delivers both comfort and control, a rare combination in this segment.

The Tonale’s distinctive Italian design creates an unmistakable presence in a crowded segment.

The Tonale’s Italian heritage is evident in its striking design. My tester’s Verde Fangio metallic paint ($2,200) drew constant attention and compliments, showing that Alfa Romeo hasn’t lost its ability to create head-turning vehicles.

The distinctive “3+3” LED headlights, Scudetto grille, and flowing body lines create a presence that stands out in a sea of conservative crossovers.

Inside, the Tributo Italiano edition showcases premium materials with perforated leather seats featuring red accents. The cabin blends modern technology — including a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — with traditional Italian flair. The driver-focused cockpit layout reflects Alfa Romeo’s sporting heritage.

At $59,630 as tested, the Tonale Tributo Italiano represents a significant investment. Budget-conscious buyers might note that the mechanically similar Dodge Hornet offers much of the same capability at a lower price point.

However, the Tonale’s distinctive styling, premium interior, and Alfa Romeo badge may justify the premium for some buyers.

Premium materials and driver-focused ergonomics reflect Alfa Romeo’s sporting heritage, while modern technology keeps the Tonale thoroughly contemporary.

The Active Assist Advanced package ($2,000) adds valuable features including a surround-view camera system and various driver assistance technologies. While these features bring the Tonale in line with modern expectations, they don’t detract from its engaging character.

Some might question the wisdom of creating a performance-oriented plug-in hybrid crossover, but the Tonale makes a compelling case for itself. It delivers the efficiency expected of modern vehicles while maintaining the emotional appeal that Alfa Romeo is known for.

The ability to run on pure electricity for daily commutes while still offering engaging performance for weekend fun creates a genuinely versatile package.

The Tonale represents a successful fusion of traditional brand values with modern necessity. It proves that the transition to electrified powertrains doesn’t have to come at the expense of driving enjoyment.

While it may share basic architecture with its more affordable Dodge cousin, the Tonale’s distinct personality, premium execution and superior dynamics make it feel special.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale Tribute Italiano EAWD ($51,995). Options: Verde Fangio metallic paint ($2,200), Active Assist Advanced package ($2,000), power moonroof ($1,400), additional key fob ($40). Price as tested (including $1,995 destination charge): $59,630

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 103.8 in.
Length: 178.3 in.
Width: 82 in.
Height: 63.2 in.
Power: 1.3-liter turbo four cylinder plus electric motor (285 hp, 347 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
MPG: 77 MPGe when charged, 29 gasoline only

RATINGS

Style: 9
Performance: 9
Price: 3
Handling: 9
Ride: 8
Comfort: 6
Quality: 7
Overall: 7

WHY BUY IT?

The Tonale offers a unique combination of efficiency, style and driving enjoyment, making it a standout choice for buyers seeking a premium compact SUV that breaks from the norm.

Posted in Alfa Romeo

Luxury Without Compromise

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph represents the pinnacle of the brand’s luxury aspirations.

After a week behind the wheel of this $114,181 palace on wheels, it’s clear that Infiniti is serious about competing with some of the world’s most prestigious SUVs.

The Autograph trim transforms the already impressive QX80 into something truly special. Its most striking feature is the meticulously crafted interior, where semi-aniline leather appointments feature unique hand-finished dot quilting that adds both texture and visual interest. The cabin’s premium materials extend to open-pore ash wood trim pieces with precisely positioned aluminum inlays, creating an environment that feels bespoke.

This flagship model pampers passengers in all three rows. The second row, in particular, receives royal treatment with massaging captain’s chairs controlled through a dedicated touchscreen in the rear console.

Even third-row occupants aren’t forgotten, with heated seats standard in the Autograph trim – a rare feature in any SUV.

With its two-tone roof treatment and unique 22-inch wheels, the QX80 Autograph subtly announces its flagship status.

Technology is seamlessly integrated throughout the cabin. Dual 14.3-inch displays dominate the dashboard, while ProPILOT Assist 2.1, standard on the Autograph, allows for hands-free driving in certain highway conditions.

The 24-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system provides concert-hall sound quality, with innovative Individual Audio functionality that can direct different audio sources to different seating positions.

Power comes from a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, producing 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant provides effortless acceleration while improving fuel efficiency over its predecessor, though at 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway with four-wheel drive, it’s very thirsty.

The Autograph’s exterior distinguishes itself with a two-tone roof treatment and dark chrome trim, riding on unique Layered Turbine 22-inch wheels. While these touches add visual drama, they’re subtle enough to maintain the QX80’s elegant presence.

Practically speaking, this ultra-luxurious trim level creates an interesting paradox. While the QX80 maintains impressive capability with 8,500 pounds of towing capacity and genuine off-road ability, the sumptuous interior almost makes you hesitate to use it for traditional SUV tasks.

Hand-finished leather quilting and aluminum-inlaid wood trim create a bespoke atmosphere in the QX80 Autograph’s three-row cabin.

Moving cargo requires careful attention to protect the premium materials, though thoughtful features such as a power-folding third row and hands-free liftgate make such tasks easier.

Comfort features abound, including the segment-first Biometric Cooling system that automatically detects and responds to passengers’ temperature needs. The front console cool box and comprehensive camera system, including Front Wide View and Invisible Hood View, add convenience to everyday use.

At over $110,000 to start, the QX80 Autograph competes with some of the most prestigious luxury SUVs on the market.

While that’s rarefied air for Infiniti, the level of craftsmanship, technology and attention to detail justifies its position in this segment. It may make you think twice before using it as a traditional SUV, but that seems beside the point.

This is luxury transportation first, utility vehicle second.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph ($110,595). Options: Interior lighting package ($1,020), cargo blocks ($42), soft-sided cargo cooler ($169), cargo shelf ($360). Price as tested (including $1,995 destination charge): $114,181

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 121 in.
Length: 211.2 in.
Width: 83.3 in.
Height: 77.9 in.
Engine: Twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 (450 hp, 516 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
MPG: 15 city, 19 highway

RATINGS

Style: 8
Performance: 9
Price: 4
Handling: 5
Ride: 9
Comfort: 9
Quality: 8
Overall: 9

WHY BUY IT?

The 2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph offers an exceptionally luxurious take on the full-size SUV formula, with premium materials, advanced technology and thoughtful comfort features that rival the best in the class.

Posted in Infiniti

Reviews

[GARD]