By Bruce Caldwell The Jeep image has always been one of ruggedness. The brand is so synonymous with off road performance that people unfamiliar with a particular SUV’s identity are most apt to call it “a Jeep type vehicle.” Jeep’s stellar reputation was established during World War II and maintained and enhanced in both civilian […]
Behind The Wheel
Each issue we feature automotive reviews of some of the latest vehicles available — see the newest cars and trucks in the West Sound. These reviews are only a sample of what we have in West Sound Magazine each issue — subscribe to the print version today to see all of what we have to offer!
Posted inBehind The Wheel
2014 Kia Sorento: Updated and Reengineered
The popular Kia Sorento, Kia’s flagship SUV, has received a major update for the 2014 model year. It could be viewed as a midcycle refresh, although Kia marketeers are careful not to use the term “all new”: The Sorento sports about 80 percent new or reengineered content, with a list of revisions much more extensive […]
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2013 Chevrolet Traverse
Model Tested: 2013 Chevrolet Traverse AWD LTZ Engine: 3.6-liter V6, 288-horsepower 270 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 16-mpg city/ 23-mpg highway Base Price: $42,575 As Tested: $46,200 Performance: Comfort: Utility: WOW Factors: Whines: Bottom Line: The Chevrolet Traverse LTZ is a luxurious, very spacious, comfortable (especially with the second row captain’s chairs) […]
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Midsize Detroit Iron Every Bit as Good as Camry or Accord
The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is all new — inside and out — for 2013. The benefits of its more aerodynamic styling are better fuel efficiency thanks to a drag coefficient of about 0.29 — among the best in the industry — and a quieter ride. It blends a smooth ride and that quiet interior with […]
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Flash Drive: 2013 KIA Sportage
By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 KIA Sportage SX AWD Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 260 hp, 269 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed automatic, All Wheel Drive, Locking Center Differential EPA Ratings: 20-mpg city/25-mpg highway Base Price: $28,400 As Tested: $32,400 Performance: Comfort: Utility: WOW Factors: Whines: Bottom Line: The 2013 Kia Sportage SX is great fun to […]
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Flash Drive: 2013 KIA Optima
By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 KIA Optima SX Limited Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 274 hp, 269 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed automatic, Front Wheel Drive EPA Ratings: 22-mpg city/34-mpg highway Base Price: $26,800 As Tested: $35,470 Performance: Comfort: Utility: WOW Factors: Whines: Bottom Line: The 2013 Kia Optima SX is a great car period and an […]
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Flash Drive: 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT
By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT 4-Door Hatchback Engine: 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder, 148 hp, 131 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed Automatic, Front Wheel Drive EPA Ratings: 27-mpg city/37-mpg highway Base Price: $19,395 As Tested: $23,015 Performance: Comfort: Utility: WOW Factors: Whines: Bottom Line: The 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT is a roomy sedan with the […]
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Flash Drive — Honda Ridgeline
By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: Honda Ridgeline RTL Engine: 3.5-liter SOHC V-6, 250 hp, 253 lb/ft Transmission: 5-speed automatic, all-wheel drive EPA Ratings: 15 city/21 highway Base Price: $37,180 As Tested: $37,990 Performance: Typically excellent Honda engine and drivetrain Smooth, car-like highway ride Automatic transmission has a tow mode Locking differential for severe 4×4 conditions […]
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Flash Drive: 2013 Mazda CX-5
By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 Mazda CX-5 Sport Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, 155 hp, 150 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed manual, Front Wheel Drive (AWD is optional) EPA Ratings: 26-mpg city/35-mpg highway Base Price: $20,695 As Tested: $21,490 Performance: Comfort: Utility: WOW Factors: Whines: Bottom Line: The all-new Mazda CX-5 Sport is a great addition to the […]