XPeng P7 First Drive: China’s (Better-Built) Tesla Model S

alfa-romeo stelvio Full OverviewProsPunchy engineStrong, beautiful designFun to drive ConsSmall infotainment screenToned-down cabinTight interiorEverything sounds better in Italian, and the badge applied to the 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce is no exception. "Veloce" means "quick" in English, but can you imagine a vehicle called, say, the Ford Quick or the Chevy Fast? Yeah, no. Yet in Italian, the same word sounds sexy. But best of all, the Stelvio Veloce is indeed fast, sporty, and spirited.The Veloce trim came on board for the 2022 model year, replacing the Ti Sport trim. It's the highest available model with the standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which happens to be the most powerful base engine in the luxury compact SUV segment.Veloce but Not Molto VeloceWith 280 hp and 306 lb-ft of torque, there's no doubt the Stelvio has guts. Step on the throttle, and the response is immediate, and full torque is on tap from just 2,000 rpm. That's among the ingredients that make the Stelvio one of the sportiest SUVs, as is the eight-speed automatic transmission that likes to hold gears when Dynamic mode is active. Even the default Natural mode is a delight, though; the transmission is relatively snappy, and the perfectly linear steering delivers a wealth of feedback. In all modes, it's possible the Stelvio might ride a little too stiffly for some, but excellent damping takes the edges off the harshest impacts, and we enjoy having a better feel for the road.Unfortunately, there's a bit of un-veloce here: Despite that muscular turbo-four, at 5.9 seconds, the Stelvio Veloce is a little bit slower than some other compact luxury SUVs to 60 mph. The time is good overall, but in our testing it trails slightly behind the 2022 Porsche Macan (5.6 seconds), 2021 Audi Q5 (5.7 seconds), and even the last Stelvio we tested—a 2018 Ti Sport (5.4 seconds). But it's ahead of the 2022 Genesis GV70 2.5T (6.0 seconds), 2021 Acura RDXand 2022 BMW X3 xDrive 30i (6.4 seconds each).But the numbers aren't the full story. Combine its responsive powertrain with its capable, composed, and confidence-inspiring chassis, and the Stelvio Veloce is, in fact, perfectly veloce. Wherever you're driving it, the Stelvio behaves more like a lifted hot hatchback, feeling quick off the line and allowing drivers to attack back roads with a zeal that makes miles disappear faster than they might in a number of more appliance-like competitors. "I like that the steering is friction free and that the rim is thin," road test editor Chris Walton said. "This allows you to steer with your fingertips and not your palms."Overall, the experience behind that wheel is engaging, and the Stevlio's personality and captivating experience are what distinguish it from the rest of the segment—and make it the target of discerning drivers who need an SUV.Gorgeous Exterior, Subpar InteriorDespite being four years old, the 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce remains one of the best-looking SUVs in the segment. Like its Giulia sedan stablemate, the Stelvio has aged well and continues to look sharp even when newer models have entered the market. Unfortunately, that's not the case inside. Although there isn't anything wrong with the cabin, its plain layout lacks the attention to detail and sophistication of other SUVs in the segment.The 8.8-inch touchscreen is quite small for today's standards, and although we like its functionality and placement in the center console, the infotainment system feels antiquated and lacks updated graphics. There is no wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and it's a bit hard to explore or find what you need given the limited menu buttons.The rest of the cabin lacks the plushness we've seen in other SUVs, as well. There's nothing that will grab the attention of anyone getting into a Stelvio for the first time. The ergonomics are perfectly fine, with everything within reach of the driver, and there are hard buttons for the A/C and a volume knob, but designers missed an opportunity to make the interior more elegant and premium. In addition, interior space is a bit tight for those in the rear seats, with a big drivetrain hump that will make middle-seat passengers uncomfortable.If Alfa was aiming for a simplistic, driver-focused cabin that wouldn't draw attention from the sensational driving experience, then we suppose the layout, design, and technology make sense. But when compared against other compact luxury SUVs, the Stelvio stands out for lacking content important to buyers these days. Ventilated seats, for example, aren't an option on the Veloce, and some safety technologies standard in other SUVs (like lane keep assist) are part of a $1,495 package here. Given the excellence permeating the segment from the likes of, say, Genesis, Alfa would do well to up its game.Although lane keep assist is an option, the Veloce adds several driver assist features that were previously optional. Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, automatic high-beams, and front and rear parking sensors are now standard. Navigation, wireless charging, and heated front and rear seats are also included on all trims.Should You Buy a 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce?If you're looking for a sporty experience, an attractive design, and a cabin that delivers the basics, then the answer is assolutamente sì. But if you'd rather drive an SUV that focuses on comfort and interior amenities, there are better options.The 2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce we tested checked out at $60,665, on the expensive side of the ledger. Compare that with the $64,670 of our long-term 2022 Genesis GV70 Sport Prestige with the optional 3.5-liter turbo V-6 engine, and the Stelvio suddenly feels short on value. The GV70 does a better job delivering a plush cabin with lots of attention to detail and premium materials, and it still feels sporty without sacrificing ride comfort.And yet, for a model that's only received light updates since it came out in 2018, the Stelvio is aging gracefully. It falls short in many objective areas, but every opportunity to drive it is another opportunity for fun, and that's high on our list of priorities. If it's high on yours, too, you'll likely think the Stelvio is simply spettacolare.Looks good! More details?2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio (Veloce) Q4 Specifications BASE PRICE $53,895 PRICE AS TESTED $60,665 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door SUV ENGINE 2.0L Turbo direct-injected SOHC 16-valve I-4 POWER (SAE NET) 280 hp @ 5,200 rpm TORQUE (SAE NET) 306 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 4,023 lb (50/50%) WHEELBASE 110.9 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 184.6 x 74.9 x 66.0 in 0-60 MPH 5.9 sec QUARTER MILE 14.5 sec @ 94.6 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 123 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.83 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 27.1 sec @ 0.63 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 22/28/24 mpg EPA RANGE, COMB 406 miles ON SALE Now Show All

ford explorer Full OverviewTwo years into the pandemic, a fair number of people continue to take a break from their house/and immediate urban environs by heading outdoors and getting away from everything. For instance, Ford Explorer owners report a 56 percent increase in off-road use over the past three years, according to the company. Whether that's partially caused by lockdowns or changes in consumer tastes, the fact is more people are into off-road-oriented vehicles. That's why Ford launched the Timberline subbrand: It delivers slightly more capability off the pavement for those who want to hit the trails more often while looking a little more badass. The 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline is the first model to boast this package, and Ford has also announced an Expedition Timberline.The 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline also targets Subaru customers who are avid campers and hikers. Although the Timberline is equipped so as to sit a level above any standard Subaru, it would pair well with the Ascent Wilderness rumored to be coming later this year.How does the 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline compare to its regular sibling? Are the upgrades worth the price? We headed from Los Angeles to the San Francisco Bay Area and back to find out.What's So Special?Beefier tires are the first thing you notice when walking toward the 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline. The Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain rubber has an aggressive tread pattern, and it bumps the Explorer's look. The tires aren't as off-road capable as the Jeep Wrangler's, but they are sufficient to tackle a dirt trail or snowy path. Compared to the regular Explorer, these tires are a night and day difference and will help you get to your camping spot or cabin. Road noise is their biggest drawback, as it is significantly louder compared to the regular Explorer—to the point where it's a bit difficult to hear passengers sitting in the back. The tires wrap high-gloss black 18-inch wheels exclusive to the Timberline and which sport the Timberline logo.While Ford raised the suspension 0.55 inch, the Explorer Timberline gets a 0.8-inch lift overall thanks to the tires adding a quarter inch. That's not enough for the Timberline to look much different height-wise, but its approach and departure angles rise to 23.5 and 23.7 degrees, respectively, up from 21.0/22.3 for the next-best Platinum.Look closer at the grille, and you'll see a couple of LED lights nicely placed on top of it. When the sun goes down, these lights illuminate the trail like it's daytime.A unique grille, new front fascia with orange detailing and orange hooks, and more black plastic on the sides and rear make the Explorer Timberline easily identifiable. If that's not enough to tell people what you're driving, badges on the SUV's rear and sides proclaim it as a Timberline. Meanwhile, steel skidplates protect nearly every inch of the underbody.How Unique Is the Interior?Like the exterior, the 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline's interior has cool details that are exclusive to the trim. The Deep Cypress Activex seats combine dark green leatherette with gray cloth, and they blend nicely and look the part. After two five-hour drives, the seats still felt supportive and pleasant, and friends traveling with us called them out as being notably comfortable. The green leatherette and orange contrast stitching expands to the door panels, and a gray-stone mesh apliqué ups the dashboard's look.Besides the seats and fancy trim, as well as rubber floormats and the Explorer Timberline logos on the front headrests, the interior is pretty much like any other Explorer's. The bad news is that the small 8.0-inch screen comes with the old SYNC 3 infotainment system, which lacks the new version's modern graphics and easy-to-use features. But wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.Our Timberline test model came equipped with second-row captain's chairs that allow easy access to the third row. Once you make it back there, legroom and headroom are pretty good, even for adults. The four rear seats fold flat, allowing you to place large items should you need the space for your camping gear.How's the Drive?All 2022 Ford Explorer Timberlines are powered by the Blue Oval's 2.3-liter EcoBoost l-4, delivering 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, and a 10-speed auto sends the power to all four wheels. What's different from other Explorers, however, is the Torsen limited-slip differential, which can send torque to the wheel with the best traction depending on road conditions. The Terrain Management System features several driving modes, including Trail and Deep Snow/Sand to cruise better when navigating off the pavement.Ford fitted the 2022 Explorer Timberline with the same shocks as the Explorer Interceptor, the SUV you never want to see in your rearview mirror. The suspension means the Timberline rides stiffer on pavement; we felt almost every pothole and rut we encountered. The last regular Explorer we drove—a rear-wheel-drive XLT—felt bouncy and unsettled, which is quite different from how the Timberline rides. We didn't get a chance to drive the Timberline on a trail, but we expect the shocks will deliver a soft ride when hitting a dirt road, though we'll reserve final judgment for when we get to drive it off the concrete. The steering also feels different; it's numb and lacks a connection with the road, perhaps at least partially due to the beefier tires.The 2.3-liter EcoBoost is adequate for the Timberline in terms of power. During our testing, it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, a decent number given the tiny displacement and big body. We noted a strange noise coming from the back of the vehicle when accelerating at wide-open throttle, but things were mostly silent on the road—except for the tire noise coming into the cabin. On our figure-eight course, the numb steering revealed itself as arguably the worst thing about this SUV, but we were pleasantly surprised by the actual handling, which was relatively impressive.What's the Deal?For $47,705 as tested, the 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline looks good and adds potentially useful equipment for people who intend to head into nature. It's not cheap, but you get enough for your money to make it an attractive choice. Compared to the regular Explorer, the Timberline looks better and rides better. And not insignificantly, it keeps its price shy of $50,000, so even those who aren't avid outdoor enthusiasts might find the Timberline attractive.2022 Ford Explorer Timberline Pros and ConsProsGreat looksUseful off-road equipmentSpacious interiorConsLooks good! More details?Tire noiseStiff rideNumb steering 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline Specifications BASE PRICE $47,540 PRICE AS TESTED $47,705 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, AWD, 6-pass, 4-door SUV ENGINE 2.3L turbo direct-injected DOHC 16-valve I-4 POWER (SAE NET) 300 hp @ 5,500 rpm TORQUE (SAE NET) 310 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm TRANSMISSION 10-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 4,608 lb (51/49%) WHEELBASE 119.1 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 198.8 x 78.9 x 70.7 in 0-60 MPH 6.8 sec QUARTER MILE 15.3 sec @ 89.0 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 127 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.82 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 27.2 sec @ 0.64 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 19/22/21 mpg EPA RANGE, COMB 376 miles ON SALE Now Show All

mazda mazda3 Full OverviewAspiration toward a higher plane of luxury and refinement is a near-universal notion. Plenty of us Yanks would call it the American dream, but the idea is far from exclusive to those living in the States. Mazda has been working at it for years.The Japanese automaker has been known for decades as the sportier alternative to similarly priced Hondas and Toyotas (insert the well-worn "zoom-zoom" tagline here), but it's been striving toward a different brand identity as of late. Based on its product strategy over the past five years and having developed a rear-drive hybrid inline-six platform for the next Mazda 6 and a pair of new SUVs, it's obvious Mazda is working to go upscale along the lines of Lexus or Acura.But what of its current lineup? With the optional turbocharged engine, AWD, and the Premium Plus package, our 2022 Mazda 3 test vehicle rang in at a steep for the segment $34,115—more than $10K richer than a base Honda Civic and within three grand of a BMW 228i Gran Coupe. So the question becomes, is a loaded Mazda 3 a proper luxury alternative, or a cheap compact with a handful of extra features?Test Figures and Driving ImpressionsOne thing's for sure, this particular Mazda 3 isn't your basic front-drive compact sedan with a wheezy four-cylinder. Its optional 2.5-liter turbo inline-four develops 227 hp (or 250 hp on premium fuel) and 310 lb-ft of torque; both numbers are the highest you'll find in the compact segment this side of a Civic Type R or a Subaru WRX.Here are the numbers: 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds and the quarter mile in 14.8 seconds at 94.6 mph. For context, when we tested an AWD Mazda 3 with the standard naturally aspirated four-pot kicking out 186 hp and 186 lb-ft, it reached 60 mph in 8.1 seconds and took 16.2 seconds to run the quarter. (By comparison, our long-term BMW 228i Gran Coupe took 6.0 seconds to hit 60 mph.) Braking from 60 to 0 mph was slightly better in the Mazda 3 turbo car, too, taking 120 feet and 122 feet, respectively, to get to a full stop. That's quite a bit off the stopping power of the new Honda Civic Si, however, which hauls to 0 mph in just 110 feet.On the road, this top-spec Mazda 3 delivers a driving experience that's more refined and mature than you'd expect of this class of vehicle. The turbo-four's plentiful torque provides a good shove any time you explore the latter half of the throttle's pedal travel, plus the earlier peak torque disguises the aging six-speed automatic tranny's lack of cogs compared to some of its peers. Additionally, noise, vibration, and harshness levels from the powertrain are better than some entry-level luxury cars.The steering is weighty and accurate, even providing a bit of feel. This is one area where Mazda's sporting history shines through. Ride quality is firmer than a more relaxed compact like the Hyundai Elantra, but that pays off in the 3's superb body control and stable handling. The platform feels rock-solid through corners and is happy to keep up when you get excited on a twisty two-lane. We had a chance to drive in snow and ice, too; the AWD system shuffled torque fore and aft to keep the little Mazda pointed straight and the driver unworried. The traction control system severely limits power, but you can turn it off and have a bit of fun when you do.All that said, Mazda's driver assist system isn't programmed to be nearly as supportive as those from Honda, Hyundai, Kia, or Toyota. Lane centering hardly ever engages, and the adaptive cruise control occasionally exhibits unnatural braking behavior. If you want something that minimizes fatigue on the highway with modern active safety features, the Mazda 3 isn't it.Design ExcellenceThe Mazda 3 easily looks like the most expensive vehicle in the compact segment, with a dash-to-axle spacing that disguises its FWD underpinnings better than competitors like the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. Its LED head- and taillights are distinctively premium, and the way the turn signals blink on strong and slowly fade looks like it's straight off an Audi.Inside, the 2022 Mazda 3's interior layout is minimalist without feeling cheap, and there are no finicky touch buttons; you get expensive-feeling knobs for climate control and volume, which is a huge plus. This is what elegance and class can feel like in a relatively inexpensive vehicle. Materials and build quality feel top notch, too, and the ergonomics are excellent other than the cupholders, which aren't ideal for taller drinks.Some staffers experienced issues with the infotainment system (it can take a few too many steps to find basic functions like a radio tuner), but in many ways it comes off as a better-executed version of an older BMW iDrive system. Mazda's use of a rotary infotainment controller rather than a touchscreen allows the standard 8.8-inch infotainment display to be mounted high on the dash, which means drivers can keep their peripheral vision on the road while selecting a podcast or adding a gas station to their navigation route.That's not to say the interior isn't missing a few features given its nearly $35,000 price point. Even fully loaded, the Mazda 3 lacks cooled seats, wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, rear climate control vents, and a wireless charging pad—all of which are available in lower-priced competitors. It's also worth noting that the Mazda's rear seat is the tightest in the segment. Six-footers will be brushing their noggins on the headliner, and sharp impacts aren't going to be easy on the spine.Is the Mazda 3 Turbo a Good Car?The turbocharged and loaded-up 2022 Mazda 3 isn't a vehicle for everyone. Its back seat is exceedingly small and poorly equipped, the driver-assist tech is way behind those of the competition, and some folks won't vibe with the infotainment system's occasionally convoluted layout. There are competitors with more features, too. But would we take it over an entry-level luxury sedan like the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe? In a heartbeat.Looks good! More details? 2022 Mazda 3 Sedan AWD Turbo Specifications BASE PRICE $31,565 PRICE AS TESTED $34,115 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door sedan ENGINE 2.5L Turbo direct-injected DOHC 16-valve I-4 POWER (SAE NET) 227 hp @ 5,000 rpm* TORQUE (SAE NET) 310 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm TRANSMISSION 6-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 3,376 lb (62/38%) WHEELBASE 107.3 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 183.5 x 70.7 x 56.9 in 0-60 MPH 6.4 sec QUARTER MILE 14.8 sec @ 94.6 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 120 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.84 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 26.6 sec @ 0.67 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 23/32/27 mpg EPA RANGE, COMB 343 miles ON SALE Now *250 hp on 93-octane fuel Show All