Author: Gerardo Orlando (Page 6 of 33)

Car Review: 2015 Hyundai Sonata Sport 2.0T

March 28, 2015 / Gerardo Orlando

I first drove the 2015 Hyundai Sonata last summer when the all-new design was introduced, and I noted then how much I liked the evolution of the Sonata design. The Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language led to a more refined and upscale look for the Sonata that should help the vehicle stand out in the crowded mid-sized sedan market.

I recently had the opportunity to drive the new Sonata for a full week and this experience reinforced the positive impressions I had last summer. I tested the Sport 2.0T which features a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that is optimized for lower-RPM drivability and produces 245 horsepower and 260 lb. ft. of torque. I pointed out in my original review that you could feel the difference driving the turbo over the standard 185 horsepower engine so I was happy to have the turbo for the week. It won’t blow you away with its performance but the consistent responsiveness made this an appealing every day vehicle.

Car Reviews, Cars

hyundai Hyundai Sonata midsize sedan sedan

Watching College Hoops in Vegas with Rip Hamilton – What could be better?

March 19, 2015 / Gerardo Orlando

You know spring has arrived when everyone starts filling out their college basketball brackets and tries to figure out ways to sneak out of work to catch the first games on Thursday and Friday. Who knows? Maybe all the snow that’s piled up across the country may have even melted by then!

That won’t be a problem in Las Vegas, of course. Vegas has always been one of the best spots to enjoy the college basketball tournament frenzy during that first weekend.

A few select guys will have their own memorable experience watching the tournament on Friday in Las Vegas with Rip Hamilton courtesy of Gillette Clear Gel. We all remember Rip winning basketball championships during his college and pro days, and he’ll be hosting a viewing party with Gillette Clear Gel on Friday, March 20th at The Ainsworth in Las Vegas. Those lucky guys attending will have the chance to watch the game with Rip while receiving miscellaneous perks throughout the game.

Gillette Clear Gel boasts no odor and wetness protection for up to 48 hours, so these guys will be able to put the product to the test as they experience the frenzy of the tournament in Sin City!

Every year, the tournament offers plenty of great storylines, though we often don’t know what they’ll be ahead of time. Stars are made year after year in this tournament and it’s usually impossible to predict which team will get hot and destroy everyone’s bracket. Last year’s national champs were the underdogs and were still able to rise to the top and pull off a miracle finish.

Speaking of this year’s top dog, we do know that they will be a major story this year after going undefeated during the regular season, which is appropriate for Friday’s viewing party, as Gillette is featuring its “Undefeated” Clear Gel product pictured above. I’ve had plenty of experiences in Vegas where I could have used that level of protection!

While the top seed will be the team to beat, there are plenty of other teams hoping that one superstar can carry them to glory.

So the drama begins on Thursday and Friday, and Rip and the Gillette Clear Gel gang will have quite a party to enjoy it. We’ll report back on how it all went.

Editor’s Note: This post has been brought to you by Gillette Clear Gel. Boasting no odor and wetness protection for up to 48 hours, it’s sure to keep you dry throughout the frenzy of the tournament!

Sports

college hoops gillette Rip Hamilton

Car Review: 2015 Acura TLX 2.4L

February 16, 2015 / Gerardo Orlando

As we pointed out in our first drive of the all-new TLX, Acura has gone a long way towards revitalizing its sedan lineup with this replacement for the TL and TSX, so I was looking forward to having one to try out for a full week. The TLX model I had for the week came with a 2.4-liter, 206-horsepower i-VTEC inline-4 with 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission with torque converter and Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS). The TLX is also available with 3.5-liter, 290-horsepower i-VTEC V-6 with 9-speed automatic transmission and P-AWS, and with this version, you can get all-wheel drive as well.

Exterior

You’ll immediately notice Acura’s signature Jewel Eye LED headlights on the TLX. This new look has upgraded the styling across the Acura lineup and looks fantastic on the TLX. The overall design is sporty but classy, and compared to the 2014 TL the 2015 TLX is 3.7-inches shorter in overall length while maintaining the same wheelbase. As you can see from the photos, the TLX design looks great from every angle, and I loved the look of our Crystal Black test model.

Car Reviews, Cars

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Car Review: 2015 Lexus CT 200h

February 1, 2015 / Gerardo Orlando

If you’re looking for a hybrid, but you still want a luxury vehicle, you’re now in luck, as there are so many more options on the market. Lexus alone has six hybrids in its lineup, so you now have many options to choose from. The sporty CT 200h is aimed at introducing the Lexus brand to younger buyers with its styling and connectivity features.

Exterior

Lexus has changed its image with its signature spindle grille, which is very prominent on the front end of the CT 200h. The compact hatchback reminded me of many of the cars you see in Europe and the rear spoiler gives it a very sporty look. You certainly don’t get the impression that you’re looking at a hybrid, and I suspect younger buyers and professionals will love it. Little has changed from the 2014 model other than a badge for the F SPORT version.

Car Reviews, Cars, Lifestyle

compact hatchback hatchback hybrid Lexus Lexus CT 200h luxury hybrid

Get some Samuel Adams Cold Snap for the Super Bowl

January 31, 2015 / Gerardo Orlando

Cold Snap is the latest beer creation from Samuel Adams we tried, and the name pretty much says it all. It’s an unfiltered White Ale with a smooth wheat taste brightened up with some spring spices. There’s a subtle hint of sweet orange peel and plum along with a hint of pepper. It’s a very smooth and very refreshing drink that should go well with any Super Bowl spread this weekend.

Beer, Food & Drink, Lifestyle

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