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

Sensible Choice Gets Better

Posted on by Derek Price

Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek epitomizes the idea of “right-sized” transportation, offering a near-perfect blend of practicality, capability and value.

After spending time with the Sport trim, it’s clear why this compact SUV continues to resonate with pragmatic buyers who prioritize substance over flash.

While acceleration from the 2.5-liter engine won’t set any records with its 182 horsepower, the Crosstrek’s real strengths lie elsewhere.

Its well-tuned chassis and standard all-wheel drive system provide exceptional balance and confidence on wet roads, demonstrating Subaru’s expertise in creating all-weather vehicles.

The tire choice perfectly complements this capability, offering strong grip in adverse conditions without compromising everyday comfort.

The 10-percent stiffer structure for 2024 pays dividends in handling and refinement. The Crosstrek feels more composed than ever through corners while maintaining the compliant ride that makes it such a pleasant daily driver.

The Crosstrek’s new-for-2024 design maintains its rugged character while incorporating subtle refinements.

This improvements in driving dynamics don’t come at the expense of the model’s trademark versatility and practicality.

Inside, the cabin benefits from thoughtful updates, including the availability of a new 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

While the interface may not be the most cutting-edge in its class, it’s functional and straightforward to use.

The newly designed seats offer improved comfort and support, while careful sound deadening makes the interior notably quieter than before.

Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance system, now standard across the lineup, works smoothly and effectively. The technology provides a reassuring safety net without being intrusive, adding value to an already compelling package.

A quieter cabin and improved technology, including an available 11.6-inch touchscreen, enhance the new Crosstrek’s daily livability.

Fuel economy remains competitive for an all-wheel drive vehicle, with EPA ratings of 26 mpg in the city and 33 on the highway.

These figures, combined with the Crosstrek’s genuine off-road capability and all-weather prowess, make it an intelligent choice for buyers seeking a practical, efficient adventure vehicle.

The 2024 Crosstrek is proof that evolutionary improvement can be more valuable than revolutionary change.

It builds on the model’s established strengths while addressing previous shortcomings, resulting in a more refined and capable vehicle that should continue to attract practical-minded buyers.

For those seeking a sensible compact SUV that offers genuine capability without unnecessary frills, the Crosstrek makes a compelling case.

It may not be the fastest or most luxurious option in its class, but it executes its mission with admirable competence and value.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport ($29,195). Options: Option Package 22 ($1,920), all-weather floor liners ($141). Price as tested (including $1,345 destination charge): $32,501
Wheelbase: 105.1 in.
Length: 176.4 in.
Width: 70.9 in.
Height: 63 in.
Engine: 2.5-liter four cylinder (182 hp, 178 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Continuously variable
Fuel economy: 26 city, 33 highway

RATINGS

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

WHY BUY IT?

The new Crosstrek delivers a winning combination of all-weather capability, practicality and value, making it an excellent choice for buyers seeking a sensible compact SUV.

Posted in Subaru

The Last Muscle SUV Standing

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

As Dodge retires its iconic Charger and Challenger muscle cars, the 2025 Durango R/T 20th Anniversary Edition proves there’s still room for old-school American muscle in today’s SUV-dominated market.

After a week behind the wheel of this HEMI-powered family hauler, it’s clear that while this generation Durango may be showing its age, it still offers a unique blend of practicality and performance that’s increasingly rare.

The heart of this special edition Durango is its 5.7-liter HEMI V8, producing 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque.

This engine, paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission, delivers the kind of muscular acceleration and satisfying exhaust note that Dodge enthusiasts expect. More impressively, it can tow up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped — a figure that puts many pickup trucks to shame.

However, this powerful V8 comes with a significant thirst for fuel. EPA ratings of 14 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway reflect the compromises required for this level of performance and capability. In an era of increasing fuel costs and environmental awareness, these numbers might give some buyers pause.

The 20th Anniversary Edition Durango R/T’s muscular styling and performance-inspired touches create an imposing presence that sets it apart from typical three-row SUVs.

The R/T 20th Anniversary Edition adds distinctive touches that set it apart from standard Durangos. The black HEMI hood graphic, “345” fender badges and 20-inch forged wheels create a purposeful appearance.

Inside, SRT seats with Tupelo bronze stitching and “345” embroidery remind occupants this isn’t your typical family SUV.

The Durango’s age shows in its technology and safety features. While the Uconnect infotainment system remains one of the most user-friendly in the business, many advanced driver assistance features that come standard on newer competitors are optional here. Our Premium trim tester included these features, but they require stepping up to higher trim levels.

On the road, the Durango feels exactly as you’d expect a muscle car-inspired SUV to feel. The steering is precise, if not particularly communicative, and the performance-tuned suspension in the R/T strikes a reasonable balance between handling and comfort.

However, its size and weight are always apparent, especially in tight urban environments.
Inside, the three-row cabin offers good space and functionality. The second-row captain’s chairs in our tester provided comfortable accommodations, though the third row is best suited for occasional use.

Special edition touches and performance seats give the Durango’s functional interior a sporty character, though some materials and features show the platform’s age.

Material quality is generally good, with premium touches like the forged carbon-fiber accents adding visual interest.

At $72,065 as tested, the Durango R/T 20th Anniversary Edition Premium represents a significant investment. But for buyers seeking a practical family vehicle that hasn’t completely abandoned performance credentials, it offers a compelling package that’s increasingly hard to find.

The 2025 Dodge Durango R/T is something of a throwback — a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive-based SUV in a world increasingly dominated by turbocharged four-cylinders and front-wheel-drive crossovers.

As one of the last V8-powered mainstream SUVs available, the Durango R/T carries the torch for enthusiasts who need family transportation but aren’t ready to give up on performance.

It’s not the most practical or efficient choice, but for those who appreciate its muscular character, those compromises may be worth making.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Dodge Durango R/T 20th Anniversary Edition ($70,470). Options: None. Price as tested (including $1,595 destination charge): $72,065

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 119.8 in.
Length: 200.8 in.
Width: 85.5 in.
Height: 72.1 in.
Engine: 5.7-liter HEMI V8 (360 hp, 390 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
MPG: 14 city, 22 highway

RATINGS

Style: 8
Performance: 10
Price: 6
Handling: 5
Ride: 7
Comfort: 8
Quality: 7
Overall: 7

WHY BUY IT?

The 20th Anniversary Edition offers genuine performance credentials and impressive towing capability in a practical three-row package, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts who need family transportation.

Posted in Dodge

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