Rally Icon Grows Up

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2024 Subaru WRX TR is a testament to the brand’s commitment to performance, offering a more refined take on the rally-inspired sedan that has captivated enthusiasts for decades.

After a week behind the wheel, it’s clear that while the WRX may have matured, it hasn’t forgotten how to thrill.

At the heart of the WRX is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with a smooth-revving inline layout, that produces a robust 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

This powerplant shines in real-world driving with strong low-end grunt that makes for effortless acceleration in daily traffic. Paired with a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission, the WRX TR delivers an engaging driving experience that’s becoming increasingly rare in today’s market.

Where the WRX TR truly excels is in its handling. Subaru has hit a sweet spot with the suspension tuning, offering exceptional grip and body control without sacrificing everyday comfort.

The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides seemingly limitless traction in corners, instilling confidence even in challenging conditions.

The WRX’s aggressive stance and bold styling cues hint at its performance potential, while maintaining a somewhat understated presence.

The new high-performance Brembo braking system, featuring 6-piston front and 2-piston rear calipers, delivers impressive stopping power and pedal feel.

For 2024, Subaru has made some notable improvements to enhance the WRX’s performance credentials. The TR trim introduces stiffer springs, revised damping rates and a retuned steering rack, resulting in sharper responses and better body control. The addition of 19-inch wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires further improves grip and braking performance.

Inside, the WRX strikes a balance between sportiness and comfort. The standard Recaro seats, upholstered in black and gray Ultrasuede, provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining somewhat comfortable for longer journeys.

The 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system offers modern connectivity features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety hasn’t been overlooked, with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology now standard even on manual transmission models — a first for the WRX. This suite includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking and lane departure warning, among other features.

Supportive Recaro seats and a large touchscreen infotainment system blend sportiness with modern convenience in the WRX’s driver-focused cabin.

While the latest WRX may not have the raw, uncompromising edge of the discontinued STI model, it compensates by offering a more well-rounded package.

The ride quality and noise levels have been improved, making the WRX a more palatable daily driver without sacrificing its performance DNA.

At $42,907 as tested, the WRX TR offers capabilities that rival more expensive European sports sedans, wrapped in a practical four-door package with Subaru’s renowned reliability.

For longtime WRX fans, this latest iteration might seem a bit more grown-up than its predecessors. However, the core attributes that have made the WRX a performance icon — turbocharged power, all-wheel-drive grip, and an engaging driving experience — remain firmly intact.

The 2024 WRX TR proves that maturity and excitement need not be mutually exclusive, delivering a compelling blend of everyday usability and thrilling performance.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2024 Subaru WRX TR ($41,655). Options: All-weather floor liners ($132). Price as tested (including $1,120 destination charge): $42,907

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 105.1 in.
Length: 183.8 in.
Width: 79.3 in.
Height: 57.8 in.
Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four cylinder (271 hp, 258 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Six-speed manual
MPG: 19 city, 26 highway

RATINGS

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

WHY BUY IT?

It offers an exhilarating driving experience with good everyday comfort, advanced safety features and all-weather capability.

Posted in Subaru

Split Personality With Style

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2024 Infiniti QX55 makes a compelling case for itself in the luxury crossover segment, offering a striking design, comfortable interior and a generous list of standard features.

After a week with the top-tier Sensory AWD trim, it’s clear that Infiniti has created a vehicle with broad appeal, even if it occasionally feels caught between two worlds.

At the heart of the QX55 is Infiniti’s innovative 2.0-liter variable compression turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing a capable 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.

This powerplant features an impressive variable compression ratio ranging from 8:1 to 14:1, with peak torque available from 4,400-4,800 rpm.

While the continuously variable transmission (CVT) prioritizes efficiency, it can sometimes detract from the engaging driving experience the QX55’s sporty styling suggests.

The QX55’s ride and handling characteristics showcase its dual nature. The firmly tuned suspension and precise, well-weighted steering hint at sporty aspirations, while exceptionally comfortable seats and smooth power delivery lean towards luxury cruiser territory.

With its swooping roofline and bold grille, the QX55 cuts a striking figure that sets it apart from more conventionally styled luxury crossovers.

This duality creates a versatile vehicle that can adapt to various driving situations.

Visually, the QX55 is a standout. Its flowing lines and bold grille make a strong statement, successfully differentiating it from more conventional crossovers.

The interior continues this theme with high-quality materials and attractive design elements. The standard dual-screen infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch upper and 7-inch lower screen, is functional and includes wireless

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Standard all-wheel drive adds all-weather confidence, and the QX55 comes well-equipped even in its base form, which starts at a competitive $50,150.

Our Sensory trim tester, with a base price of $58,650 and an as-tested price of $62,725, included luxury touches like semi-aniline leather seating, open-pore wood trim and a 16-speaker Bose audio system.

Fuel economy, rated at 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, is respectable for the class. With a 16-gallon fuel tank, the QX55 offers a decent range between fill-ups.

Premium materials and attractive design elements create an upscale ambiance in the QX55’s cabin, complemented by a dual-screen infotainment system with wireless smartphone integration.

Safety features are comprehensive, with Infiniti’s ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system standard across the range. The QX55 also includes the Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System with front and side-impact airbags, as well as available rear seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags.

The QX55’s swooping roofline does impact rear headroom and cargo space, with 26.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 54.1 cubic feet with seats folded. While this may not match more traditionally shaped competitors, it should be sufficient for most users.

Ultimately, the 2024 Infiniti QX55 is a stylish and comfortable luxury crossover that offers a unique blend of sportiness and comfort. Its striking design and luxurious interior will appeal to buyers seeking to stand out from the crowd.

While a more decisive commitment to either sportiness or comfort could enhance its appeal, the QX55’s versatility makes it a solid choice for those who appreciate its distinctive styling and well-rounded nature.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2024 Infiniti QX55 Sensory AWD ($58,500). Options: Lighting package ($1,085), accent package ($695), cargo package ($350), exclusive paint ($900). Price as tested (including $1,195 destination charge): $62,725

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 110.2 in.
Length: 186.3 in.
Width: 74.9 in.
Height: 63.8 in.
Engine: 2.0-liter variable compression turbo four cylinder (268 hp, 280 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Continuously variable
MPG: 22 city, 28 highway

RATINGS

Style: 9
Performance: 6
Price: 5
Handling: 7
Ride: 7
Comfort: 7
Quality: 7
Overall: 7

WHY BUY IT?

It offers eye-catching style, a luxurious interior and a comprehensive list of standard features including all-wheel drive and advanced safety technology, at a relatively attainable price point.

Posted in Infiniti

Powerful But Polarizing

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia Capstone represents the pinnacle of Toyota’s full-size SUV offerings, blending luxury appointments with truck-based capability.

After a week behind the wheel of this behemoth, it’s clear that while the Sequoia excels in many areas, it also comes with some notable compromises.

At the heart of the Sequoia is its impressive i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, combined with an electric motor, produces a robust 437 horsepower and a staggering 583 pound-feet of torque.

This powertrain delivers smooth, effortless acceleration that belies the Sequoia’s considerable size. Fuel economy, rated at 19 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway, is competitive for the class, especially considering its power output.

Towing capability is a strong suit, with the Sequoia able to haul up to 9,520 pounds when properly equipped. This places it near the top of its class.

The available Tow Tech Package, which includes features like Trailer Backup Guide and Straight Path Assist, helps take some of the stress out of maneuvering with a trailer.

On the road, the Sequoia’s truck-based roots are evident. While the ride is generally comfortable, especially with the optional air suspension, it lacks the refined, car-like feel of some unibody competitors.

The Sequoia’s bold, imposing presence is accentuated by the Capstone trim’s chrome accents and massive 22-inch wheels.

Handling is predictable but ponderous, reminding you of the vehicle’s substantial mass in corners. Wind noise at highway speeds is more pronounced than expected in a vehicle of this caliber.

Inside, the Capstone trim showcases Toyota’s premium aspirations. High-quality materials abound, including semi-aniline leather seats and genuine American walnut wood trim.

The 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and feature-rich.

Passenger space is generous in the first and second rows, but the third row suffers from an awkward, knees-up seating position that’s unsuitable for adults on longer trips. Cargo space with all seats in use is limited, though the innovative sliding third row and adjustable cargo shelf system add some versatility.

Safety features are comprehensive, with Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5 suite of driver aids coming standard. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking, among other features.

However, the elephant in the room is the question of long-term reliability.

Premium materials and advanced technology define the Sequoia Capstone’s cabin, though the awkward third-row seating position limits its practicality.

The Sequoia has long been renowned for its durability, largely thanks to its tried-and-true V8 engine. The switch to a twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid system raises concerns about longevity, as turbocharged engines typically don’t have the same expected lifespan as naturally aspirated ones.

While Toyota reps have assured me that the new powertrain has been thoroughly tested, only time will tell if it can match the legendary reliability of its predecessor.

At $84,575 as tested, the Sequoia Capstone commands a premium price. While it offers impressive capability and a luxurious interior, the steep cost may give some buyers pause, especially when considering equally capable and more refined unibody competitors.

Ultimately, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia is a vehicle of contrasts. It offers immense power, towing capability and a luxurious interior, but its truck-based platform results in compromises in ride quality and handling.

For buyers who prioritize towing capacity and off-road ability in a luxurious package, the Sequoia makes a compelling case.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2024 Toyota Sequoia 4WD Capstone ($80,865). Options: 50-state emissions ($290), air suspension ($1,045), all-weather floor liners ($358), wheel locks ($80), ball mount ($87). Price as tested (including $1,850 destination charge): $84,575

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 122 in.
Length: 208.1 in.
Width: 79.6 in.
Height: 74.2 in.
Engine: Twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 hybrid (437 hp, 583 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
MPG: 19 city, 22 highway

RATINGS

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

WHY BUY IT?

The latest Sequoia offers impressive power, towing capability and luxury features in a rugged, truck-based package, making it ideal for buyers who need serious capability without sacrificing comfort.

Posted in Toyota

Reviews

[GARD]