There are numerous benchmarks indicating achievement in driving proficiency. Avoiding crashes is one such mark and avoiding traffic tickets is another. But meeting those basic goals does not necessarily mean that you are driving perfectly. Some accident-free drivers may have straight fenders, but are only…
In many families, graduation season prompts deep conversations about first cars. For the past decade, those conversations have had to include Honda’s Fit subcompact hatchback. The 2018 Fit ($16,190) checks all the starter-car boxes (and second-car and last-car boxes, too). It’s safe, affordable and economical....
I recently wrote about the rapid emergence of pedestrians, bicycles and motorcycles occurring every spring. Along with that phenomenon, activity levels of deer, elk and other roaming animals rise with the warmer weather. I truly believe that instead of posting occasional “watch for deer” signs…
As oil prices rose last year, Kia debuted an all-new subcompact hybrid called Niro. The little front-wheel-drive hatchback quickly established itself as the country’s best-selling hybrid not named Prius. This year, Kia doubles down with the 2018 Niro Plug-in Hybrid. With a full charge, the…
Flashing yellow arrows began appearing at certain intersections a few years ago. Initially, I was uncertain of their intent. Did it simply mean, as a typical yellow light indicates, that a red-light indication was imminent? If so, it might induce drivers to rush through that...
To paraphrase the late singer/songwriter Guy Clark: sometimes a job is so big it needs a bigger hammer. Which seems like a perfect way to think about Infiniti’s QX80; it’s the hammer that gets big jobs done. The eight-passenger SUV weighs in at a full-size...
The first 70-degree days of 2018 occurred here last week. Sadly, it also marked a pedestrian death by way of automobile. The two events are somewhat related, with days warmer days putting people in peril as more of them venture out among motor vehicles. Worse,…
Last summer, Volkswagen launched an all-new 2018 Tiguan, then sat back and watched the compact crossover soar to the top of the company sales charts. The new Tiguan represents a recalibration for VW. While the previous model pleased enthusiasts (and auto writers) with its engaging...