Rugged Refinement

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The all-new 2025 Subaru Forester is a thoroughly evolved version of the brand’s popular compact SUV, blending increased refinement with the rugged capability that has long been a Forester hallmark.

After a week behind the wheel of the Premium trim, it’s clear that Subaru has successfully updated the Forester formula while staying true to its roots.

At the heart of the new Forester is a familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. While not particularly thrilling in terms of acceleration, this powerplant provides adequate performance for daily driving and light off-road excursions.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been improved for smoother and quieter operation, though engine noise remains more noticeable than in some competitors.

Where the Forester truly shines is in its solid, confidence-inspiring demeanor.

The 10-percent-stiffer chassis contributes to improved handling and a more composed ride, striking a nice balance between comfort and capability.

With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, the Forester feels more truck-like than many crossovers in its class, without the associated penalties in fuel economy or maneuverability.

The 2025 Forester’s redesigned exterior maintains Subaru’s rugged aesthetic while incorporating more modern, sleek elements.

Inside, Subaru has made significant strides in both design and functionality. The cabin feels more upscale than its predecessor, with improved materials and a more modern aesthetic.

The optional 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system is a welcome addition, offering crisp graphics and intuitive operation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, enhancing connectivity options for users.

Practicality remains a Forester strong suit. The spacious interior offers ample room for passengers and cargo alike, with thoughtful touches like heavy-duty utility hooks in the cargo area expanding versatility.

The large greenhouse and strategically designed pillars provide excellent visibility, a Subaru trademark that aids in both daily driving and off-road scenarios.

Safety features are comprehensive, with Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology now standard across all trim levels. The system’s expanded capabilities, including the ability to detect cyclists and pedestrians at intersections, add to the Forester’s appeal as a family vehicle.

A spacious, well-designed cabin with available 11.6-inch touchscreen highlights the Forester’s blend of practicality and modern technology.

At $34,590 as tested, our Premium trim Forester represents strong value in the compact SUV segment. Standard all-wheel drive, a robust suite of safety features and genuine off-road capability set it apart from many competitors at this price point.

However, the Forester isn’t without its compromises. The engine, while adequate, lacks the punch of some turbocharged rivals and can be noisy under hard acceleration. Additionally, while the interior is much improved, some may find it less luxurious than top-trim versions of competing models.

Overall, it prioritizes practicality, capability and safety over outright performance or luxury pretensions.
For buyers seeking a reliable, versatile compact SUV that’s as comfortable on a dirt trail as it is in a grocery store parking lot, the new Forester makes a compelling case.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Subaru Forester Premium ($31,995). Options: Optional package ($1,200). Price as tested (including $1,395 destination charge): $34.590

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 105.1 in.
Length: 183.3 in.
Width: 72 in.
Height: 68.1 in.
Engine: 2.5-liter four cylinder (180 hp, 178 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Continuously variable
MPG: 26 city, 33 highway

RATINGS

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

WHY BUY IT?

The new Forester offers a winning combination of practicality, capability and value, making it an excellent choice for buyers seeking a versatile compact SUV that’s equally at home in urban environments and off-road adventures.

Posted in Subaru

Luxury Redefined, But At a Cost

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2025 Infiniti QX80 is a thoroughly reimagined version of the brand’s flagship SUV, aiming to reset benchmarks in the full-size luxury segment.

After a week behind the wheel of the Sensory 4WD trim, it’s clear that Infiniti has made significant strides in technology and refinement, though some compromises remain.

At the heart of the new QX80 is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing a robust 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant, paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission, provides ample thrust for such a large vehicle. The powertrain’s refinement is particularly notable during highway cruising, where the QX80 settles into a quiet, composed demeanor befitting its luxury status.

Inside, Infiniti has dramatically improved the QX80’s interior. The cabin is a showcase of high-quality materials and impressive technology. Dual 14.3-inch displays dominate the dashboard, offering crisp graphics and intuitive functionality.

The integration of Google built-in services enhances the user experience, providing seamless access to navigation, apps, and voice controls.

Comfort is a strong suit for the QX80, with plenty of passenger room across all three rows. The available massaging seats in the first two rows are a welcome luxury touch, while the third row offers more space than many competitors.

The QX80’s imposing presence and distinctive design cues ensure it stands out in the crowded luxury SUV segment.

I loved the massaging front seats in my tester, a welcome feature for a road trip to East Texas.

The Klipsch audio system is another standout feature, delivering rich, immersive sound throughout the cabin.

However, the QX80’s ride quality, while generally comfortable, falls short of the plush experience offered by some rivals. There’s a firmness to the suspension that, while contributing to better handling, can occasionally transmit more road imperfections than expected in a vehicle of this class.

The QX80’s size also can make it challenging to maneuver in tight urban environments. This is somewhat mitigated by the comprehensive camera system, including the innovative Front Wide View and Invisible Hood View features, which prove invaluable in parking situations.

With its dual 14.3-inch displays and high-quality materials, the QX80’s cabin blends technology and luxury in an impressive package.

Fuel economy, at 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for the 4WD model, is improved over its predecessor but still thirsty by modern standards. This may give pause to environmentally conscious buyers or those facing frequent fill-ups.

At $106,242 as tested, the QX80 Sensory 4WD represents a significant investment. While it offers a wealth of features and technologies, some of the most impressive amenities are reserved for the even pricier Autograph trim. This pricing strategy may deter buyers who expect all the bells and whistles at this price point.

Overall, the 2025 QX80 is a bold step forward for the brand, offering a compelling blend of luxury, technology and capability.

For those seeking a technologically advanced, comfortable, and capable large SUV with distinctive styling, the new QX80 is certainly worth consideration. It’s a tour de force of tech and comfort features with spaciousness that feels downright sumptuous for those fortunate enough to afford it.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Infiniti QX80 Sensory 4WD ($100,645). Options: ProPilot Assist 2.1 ($3,200), cargo blocks ($42), cargo shelf ($360). Price as tested (including $1,995 destination charge): $106,242

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 new QX80 offers a compelling mix of bold styling, advanced technology and spacious comfort, making it an attractive option for luxury SUV buyers who prioritize presence and features.

Posted in Infiniti

Redefining American Luxury

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The all-new 2025 Lincoln Navigator aims to reassert its position as the pinnacle of American luxury SUVs.

While I haven’t had the opportunity to drive it yet, the recently announced details paint a picture of a vehicle that prioritizes comfort, technology and a serene driving experience over sportiness — a refreshing approach in today’s luxury SUV market.

At the heart of the new Navigator is a focus on creating a true sanctuary for passengers. Lincoln’s emphasis on a quiet, refined interior aligns perfectly with what many luxury SUV buyers seek: a vehicle that wafts down the highway in near silence, isolating occupants from the outside world.

This philosophy is evident in features like the new Lincoln Digital Experience, which incorporates a massive 48-inch panoramic display spanning the dashboard, and the innovative Lincoln Rejuvenate system — a “spa on wheels” that combines adjustable seating, climate control, ambient lighting and even scent diffusion to create a relaxing environment.

Powering the Navigator is a familiar 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque.

While fuel economy figures haven’t been released, it’s safe to assume the Navigator will continue to be a thirsty vehicle — a trade-off many buyers in this segment are willing to make for the power and presence it offers.

The 2025 Navigator’s slightly boxier design may be polarizing in photos, but promises to make a strong statement on the road.

The exterior styling of the new Navigator appears to be more evolutionary than revolutionary. Lincoln has opted for a slightly boxier, more upright design compared to its predecessor. While it may not break new ground aesthetically, the true impact of its design will likely be better appreciated in person.

Inside, Lincoln continues to push the boundaries of luxury. The available second-row Power Tailored Seats bring first-class comfort to rear passengers, offering power adjustment, heating, ventilation and even massage functions.

The new Lincoln split gate at the rear promises to make loading and unloading easier while also serving as a convenient seating area when lowered.

Technology takes center stage in the new Navigator. In addition to the expansive digital display, the SUV offers Lincoln BlueCruise hands-free highway driving capability, now enhanced with features such as Lane Change Assist and In-Lane Repositioning.

The integration of Google-based services, including built-in Google Assistant, Maps and Play store access, brings a high level of connectivity and convenience to the luxury SUV segment, Lincoln promises.

With its 48-inch panoramic display and luxurious appointments, the Navigator’s cabin aims to redefine mobile luxury and comfort.

Attention to detail is evident in the Navigator’s new Black Label themes. The Enlighten and Atmospheric options join the existing Invitation theme, offering carefully curated interior designs that showcase premium materials and thoughtful craftsmanship.

While I eagerly await the opportunity to experience the 2025 Navigator firsthand, the announced features and Lincoln’s focus on creating a true luxury sanctuary are promising.

In a market where many luxury SUVs try to be all things to all people, Lincoln’s commitment to prioritizing comfort and refinement over sporting pretensions is a welcome approach.

The 2025 Navigator is slated to go on sale next spring.

For those seeking the epitome of American luxury in SUV form — a vehicle that embraces its role as a comfortable cruiser rather than a performance machine — the new Navigator appears poised to deliver a compelling option in the full-size luxury SUV segment.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS UNVEILED?

2025 Lincoln Navigator. Pricing and fuel economy not yet announced.

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 122.5 in.
Length: 210 in.
Width: 80 in.
Height: 78 in.
Engine: 3.5-liter twin turbocharged V6 (440 hp, 510 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
MPG: Not yet released

EXPECTED RATINGS

Style: 8
Performance: 9
Price: 6
Handling: 4
Ride: 9
Comfort: 9
Quality: 7
Overall: 8

WHY BUY IT?

The 2025 Navigator offers a unique blend of cutting-edge technology, opulent comfort and classic American luxury, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize a serene driving experience in a full-size SUV package.

Posted in Lincoln

Reviews

[GARD]