Remember the Kia Optima? Well, it has been retired for 2021 and substituted by another suitable midsize sedan: the K5. The new name, the fresh look, is as bold appearing or even more so than its predecessor. Length and wheelbase are up by two and 1.8 inches, respectively. Width rises another inch, though the height […]
Continue ReadingOpinion
COLUMN: Looking back on what was arguably the strangest year in decades
It’s hard to name a year filled with more twists, turns and downright bizarre surprises than 2020.
Continue ReadingCadillac XT4 is an entertaining compact crossover
Close on the heels of the three-row luxury crossover XT6 some months ago came its smaller sibling, XT4, from Cadillac. Debuting in 2019, it sits on a car-like framework but with all the bells and whistles you would find among competitors such as the Audi Q3 or the Volvo XC40. The XT4 is packed with […]
Continue ReadingLetter to the Editor: Streaming into the future: First efforts into a live parade
There was no decision on whether I’d watch the first “live stream” of the 2020 Christmas parade in Plant City. I knew I’d be viewing it from the comfort of my home, sitting on a large recliner facing the 4K television that I selected to watch it on. My popcorn was ready. It was different […]
Continue ReadingRevamped 2020 Subaru Legacy a worthy daily ride
With Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6 and more, competition is vicious in the midsize sedan segment. One competent vehicle that has not received as much attention in the field is the Subaru Legacy, which displays incredible nimbleness, remarkable handling and response. Partial credit, of course, goes to the standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system that […]
Continue Reading2020 Chevy Bolt goes the distance – solely on battery
Imagine going over 250 miles and some more on a full one-time electric charge in a ride. GM claims 259 miles (up 21 from its predecessor), to be exact, in its four-door, five-passenger 2019 Bolt EV. Plus, the four-door, five-passenger Bolt EV is an ultra-smooth and cool hatchback package with superb handling and overall balance. […]
Continue ReadingTake the 2020 GMC Sierra Denali off-road or on the road
After a major redesign inside out last year, the GMC Sierra Denali 1500 4WD Crew Cab truck for 2020 continues mostly as-is. This solidly built full-size pickup ensures reasonably quick acceleration from any speed, ample passing ability and accurate handling/balance. The four-wheel-drive system can be driven in auto, 2WD, 4Hi or 4Lo modes depending on […]
Continue ReadingDoctor’s Note: Let’s get FYZICAL to dodge balance disorders
The key to balance is movement — let’s fight the fall together.
Continue ReadingOwner’s Report: Don’t forget Varrea’s potential impact on downtown
I appreciate the Plant City Observer’s coverage of the Varrea development amendment public hearing. One concern I have, which I was sad to hear was not addressed at the hearing, was the effect on Plant City’s downtown district and hope for Midtown if a residential development is allowed to more than double its desires for neighborhood […]
Continue Reading2020 Volkswagen Passat gets a few tweaks
It was long overdue, but the 2020 Volkswagen Passat has been overhauled — though not to a fuller extent, as one would expect. The exterior and the interior have been tweaked and though the power train has been retained, the torque gets a boost of 22 over its predecessor. Our test drive was equipped with […]
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