The Toyota GR86 brings video game racing to real life. I’ve driven this sports car while playing Gran Turismo with my son, and it was even more exciting to drive in real life.

Named for its rich history of racing, the GR in the GR86 stands for Gazoo Racing, Toyota’s motorsport division. This division engineers the technologies for the GR-designated vehicles in the lineup. The carmaker’s rich history with race competitions goes back a number of decades, and it’s pretty clear that their passion for motorsports carries over in this car’s vibe.

I may not be able to keep it on the road in the video game, but when I was behind the wheel, it drove like a dream. Maybe all those hours getting beaten by a 12-year-old are finally paying off.

Related: Toyota GR86: A Most Impressive Manual

My 5 Favorite Things about the Toyota GR86

After immersing myself in a week’s worth of driving, these are the most noteworthy elements I discovered about the Toyota GR86.

Affordability

A sports car starting at $32,000 is hard to beat. This coupe provides a thrilling drive without the hefty price tag. Even those wishing to add on the additional upgrade options are still under $40,000, making this a great option for the price.

Advanced Safety Features

What I really like about the Toyota GR8 is that it’s not just fun and games. It’s equipped with all the safety features that will help keep me safe on the road.

A much-needed feature that alerted me frequently was the backup warning. The GR86 sits extremely low to the ground, and when backing up in parking lots, it’s difficult to see other vehicles driving by. The camera angles made it a breeze to see around the cars I was parked next to and alerted me of any approaching cars.

A few other safety features that were helpful were the automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Quality Sound System

We had the radio blasting through the high-speaker system, and the music was bumpin’ with the 200-watt subwoofer.

It’s a good thing the sound system is so good because the inside of the cabin is loud. When driving at higher speeds on the highway, the road and wind noise make it difficult to hold a conversation.

Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth, and the base grade comes with a standard six-speaker audio system. The model I drove had eight speakers and had a powerful sound.

Driver-Centric Interior

Equipped with an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen and a 7-inch digital gauge display. I feel like this is a no-frills sports car with a few upgrades, like heated front seats, that help make the driver a little more comfortable.

The ultrasuede seats are heated and have leather bolsters for a more comfortable ride. And a dual zone A/C helps keep the cabin at the perfect temperature for everyone.

The front seats have six- and four-way manual adjustable driver and passenger seats as well as heated seats.

For a small interior, I was pleasantly surprised at how spacious the cabin was. My 6’2” husband had both leg and head space while he was riding shotgun.

While the back seat is almost non-existent (it serves more as a holder of bags), the trunk has plenty of room for a large grocery haul or bags for a weekend getaway.

Automatic and Manual Transmission Option

Drivers can choose from a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The model I drove was the automatic transmission, but it was not lacking in fun. This is the part that really made me feel like the video game was coming to life.

One of the reasons that the GR86 is exciting to drive is that the automatic transmission comes standard with a steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifter. With a pull of the lever, drivers can change gears while keeping both hands on the steering wheel.

The car is equipped with Dynamic Rev Management, which allows the driver to have ultimate performance while driving.

Related: 9 Cars That Will Make You Grin

About the Drive

It has been over a year since I’ve driven a car, especially one that sits so low to the ground. One of my concerns was that I would be blinded by headlights while on the freeway. But the auto-dimming rearview mirror was a wonderful feature. It took care of those issues and had me concerned for no reason.

The car is smooth to handle and easy to maneuver. It has a powerful 2.4-liter engine that makes up 228 horsepower and 184lb.-ft torque which means that it can go from 0-60 in about 6 seconds.

I like that it’s easy to handle and fast but not powerful enough for you to feel out of control when driving at higher speeds on the freeway.

Although this is a fun car to drive, I wouldn’t say it’s smooth. You will feel every bump on the road, and the suspension is anything but soft with such a short wheelbase.

Related: 7 Sexy Sport Cars to Fulfill Your Need for Speed

Who is the Toyota GR86 For?

• Singles or couples
• Drivers who want a sporty driving experience
• Those wanting a stylish ride
• Those looking for great gas mileage

What This Car Costs

• The base model price starts at $32,000.
• The price of the model we drove was $34,126.
• The added equipment in my vehicle includes the auto-dimming mirror, gear shift knob, carpet floor mats, rear bumper appliqué, and eight-speaker audio system upgrade.

What We Loved

• Heated seats
• Apple CarPlay
• 184lb-ft torque
• Large trunk space
• Fuel efficient, boasting 21 MPG in the city and 31 highway MPG

What You Need to Know

• No back seat USB ports.
• Seats 4 but comfortable for 2.
• It’s technically a four-seater car, but I don’t know how it would be possible to fit more than an infant car seat.
• If needed, the rear seats have lower anchors and tether for car seats.
• The trunk has plenty of space to haul two suitcases for a road trip.

Disclosure: A Girls Guide to Cars may earn a commission from affiliate links in this story.

Nearly 20 years ago, Dodge brought its legends back to life: the Charger and the Challenger. Unlike the Chargers of the muscle car era, this Charger has been a four-door family sedan with various engines powering the rear wheels or, if so equipped, all four (yes, this sedan has AWD for capability in snow!). Meanwhile, the current Challenger was its two-door retro-modern companion, its early Seventies’ styling cues reforged for a new millennium. Little did anyone know that these models would kickstart Dodge’s latest incarnation as a high-performance, all-muscle brand, where the horsepower increased to ludicrous levels the old guard could only dream of.

Nearly 20 years later, the madness ends. The push for electrification from not only within Stellantis but from various governments around the world is ringing the bell on gas- and diesel-fueled machines, including the high-performance beasts Dodge continues to build to this day. Dodge already has an electric car ready to carry the torch into the next era of performance, but not much is known about what else will.

Either way, Dodge is giving the Challenger, the Charger, and the muscle car era a final, proper send-off with seven Last Call Edition models. Each represents a piece of Dodge’s place in muscle car history and each is a collector’s item, numbered, named and built in limited production. The next to last to be introduced, 6th of the 7, is the 2023 Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody Redeye Black Ghost Last Call Edition, which I’ll just refer to as the Black Ghost. It may not draw too many glances at first, but considering what this machine pays tribute to, that’s part of the charm.

Related: The Last of the Great Muscle Cars: Dodge Challenger Shakedown Edition 

Here and Gone Like a Thief in the Night

The Black Ghost takes its name from one given to a 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T SE purchased by one Godfrey Qualls, a Detroit motorcycle cop who once served in the United States Army as a paratrooper. The Challenger was special-ordered and purchased new in 1969, equipped with the R/T SE package that was available that year only and which placed the SE’s black vinyl roof – in this case, an alligator print roof – on the R/T body. Under the long black hood lay a 426 cubic-inch Hemi V8 with a four-barrel carburetor, linked to the rear Goodyear Polyglas tires via a four-speed manual transmission.

Only 23 1970 Challenger R/T SEs with the Hemi V8s and a four-speed manual were built, and the only one had a the alligator print vinyl roof. Godfrey’s Black Ghost got its name from stories told of a triple-black Challenger that would turn up on the streets of Detroit in the din of the night to take on all-comers, then vanish for weeks, if not months, at a time before turning up once more to haunt the competition. Godfrey retired the Challenger from the streets in 1976, tucking the legend inside his garage with 45,000 miles on the odometer until his passing in 2015. Before he died, he passed the Black Ghost to his son, Gregory, who then brought the legend out into the light in 2016.

Since then, the original Black Ghost was entered into the Historic Vehicle Association Register as the 28th vehicle in the registry, displayed at the National Mall in Washington, DC, and sold at Mecum Auctions’ Indy 2023 extravaganza for $1,072,500. It was also accompanied at the same auction by the first of 300 Black Ghost Last Call Edition models that will ever be made, which sold for a more reasonable $170,500 with 13 delivery miles on the odometer.

Related: Should I Own My Dad’s Cherished Vintage Porsche 911?

Who This Car Is For

No one needs 807 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque from a supercharged 6.2-liter V8. In fact, there are only a few opportunities even to use all of that power (and they’re all at your local drag strip). So, who is the Black Ghost for, then?

• Buyers who have Mecum Auctions/Barrett-Jackson/RM Sotheby’s/Bring a Trailer in their browser bookmarks
• Fans of old-school muscle, especially Mopar-style muscle
• Collectors who want a piece of history in their climate-controlled storage facility
• Drivers in the Sun Belt with race gas in their veins (and a bank account to pay for the
  Black Ghost’s needs)
• Drivers throughout the United States looking for the ultimate weekend toy

This Dodge Challenger Comes On Like a Hurricane

Based on the Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody Redeye, there is only one engine under the
twin hood intakes of the Black Ghost: a 6.2-liter high-output Hemi V8 with a 2.7-liter
supercharger bolted on top of it.

With a few tweaks to the Hemi’s computer, the V8 puts out 807 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque, all going through the rear pair of 20-inch Satin Carbon Warp Speed wheels wrapped in Pirelli P-Zeros via an eight-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode, so you can use the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel to shift your own. The twin hood intakes are not for show, either, feeding cooler air into the behemoth underneath.

The package surrounding the monster V8 stirs the soul like few others. Like the original, the modern Black Ghost is a nearly all-black affair, with a black gator skin graphic on the roof, a white stripe on the back, and retro-modern badging on the hood, grille, spoiler, and front fenders. There’s even a chrome gas cap for extra retro flair and a pair of hood pins to keep the hood from flying off during a run down the quarter-mile.

The widebody fender flares and low stance give the Black Ghost a daunting presence few can ignore, especially when they realize just which Challenger model this is. The only things missing are the decals bearing the red, green, and black colors of the Pan-African flag, placed on the original Black Ghost by Godfrey as one of the few modifications he made.

Disappearing Into the Heart of the Black Ghost

Behind the mammoth supercharged Hemi V8 is a view few will experience. There’s nothing like seeing the pair of hood air intakes before you and the front passenger stretch out into the blacktop, the hood pins floating along in the breeze.

For you and your four lucky passengers, the Black Ghost comes with black Alcantara and Laguna leather seating with white stitching, including a pair of front buckets with the SRT Hellcat logo stitched into the seat just below the headrests.

The steering wheel, too, is covered in Alcantara for maximum luxury on those passes down the quarter-mile. The rest of the interior is blacker than black, times infinity, accented with carbon fiber trim on the dash and center console. Finally, in case no one knows what sort of Challenger this is, the front passenger air vent on the dashboard has the Black Ghost name stamped into it.

No Unnecessary Subscriptions in this Dodge Challenger

Worried about the trend toward subscriptions for features like navigation and increased horsepower? You won’t need to think about such silliness with the Black Ghost. UConnect 4C NAV is ready to guide you to your favorite restaurants and drag strips either on its own or through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Your favorite SiriusXM stations will sound great over the V8 through the Harman-Kardon 18-speaker sound system with subwoofer and 825-watt amplifier. And if you’d rather simply listen to exhaust notes, the UConnect system also includes controls for the SRT Drive Modes and the SRT Performance Pages app for destroying those Pirellis and the competition.

As far as cruising down the highway goes, you do have cruise control, but you will be the one adapting to traffic, not the Black Ghost. Then again, this is a machine that commands your respect and attention at all times. Luckily, this throwback has modern conveniences like a rear backup camera, blind-spot monitoring (necessary since the thick B-pillars are a big blind spot),rear cross-path detection, and automatic high beams.

Practical Defiance in the Dodge Challenger Black Ghost

If you didn’t already know, I come from the enthusiast side of motoring. You’d think I’d be enamored by not only a high-performance Challenger but a special one like the Black Ghost, right? It’s got a Hemi! With a supercharger! More horsepower than I’d ever need, ready to leave everyone everywhere behind, all struggling to catch me! And you’d be right. At first.

Like everyone else who gazed upon the Black Ghost (and especially once they realized it was the Black Ghost), I loved seeing the painted aluminum wheels, the functional hood intakes, the hood pins holding everything down, the white stripe in the back, the faux gator skin roof. The sound of the big supercharged V8 was glorious to behold, especially when the supercharger whined while I pushed down the accelerator.

More than a few people noted how tough the whole package was, all in a good way. And then, it was time to live with the Black Ghost. It is not for the faint of heart or the depleted of pocketbook. Let’s start with the fact that this Challenger needs premium gas, period. You’re not giving the 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 regular fuel because lower octane fuels will damage the engine over time (and no one’s gonna want to buy a damaged Black Ghost at Mecum. I think).

Thus, it will be your bank account taking the damage at the pump, especially if you road-trip it like I did between my Old Dominion home in Virginia and Bowling Green, Kentucky, for the Holley MoParty, where you will go through a tank of premium halfway through the journey.

Never Meet Your Heroes

Then, there’s the sound. This is an experience best experienced in small doses. Why? Because there are two sets of exhaust tips: the rear pair pointed at the drivers behind you, and another pair pointed downward to the road underneath the rear passenger footwells. A quiet Sunday drive the Black Ghost refuses to deliver. It sounds like driving a NASCAR Cup car if said car had sound deadening and a full interior (the exhaust exits behind the driver on either side, too). You may wish to invest in the sort of earmuffs used at NHRA events to protect your hearing in order to muffle the drone.

Finally, for the driver (me, in this case), it’s not a comfortable space to be in for too long. My right knee was not happy with me after the end of each leg of the trip between Virginia and Kentucky. One of my friends noted that this is the case with every Dodge Challenger trim level, mainly because of how cramped things are for the driver as far as the footwell goes. My mom, on the other hand, said her seat was more comfortable than the one in the car I reviewed after the Black Ghost (a 2023 Nissan Versa SR, if you’re curious). And though the Challenger is bigger than either the Mustang or Camaro, if you want proper legroom, it’s still best to go after a Charger; you also get two more doors for ease of entry for all.

In short, I met one of my heroes, and it was not all it was cracked up to be. The Black Ghost is for the young in spirit who wish to live in the dreamworld of V8s roaring down two-lane blacktops and dark desert highways with the stars sparkling in the sky. I’ll stick with vehicles with enough comfort, reliability, and horsepower to safely navigate I-81 to and from the airport (and take Mom to work in the early morning hours).

Related: 7 Sexy Sportscars to Fulfill Your Need for Speed

What The Dodge Challenger Black Ghost Costs

The Black Ghost is one of a handful of Last Call Editions, a group of seven Dodge Challengers and Chargers paying tribute to the old ways before electrification silences the roar of V8s forever. This one, based on the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody, is the final step in power before the most powerful Dodge Challenger ever unleashed, the 1,025-horsepower Demon 170. It’s also a fine tribute to the original Black Ghost and its history of haunting the streets of Detroit (and, its million dollar auction price). Thus, it’s a lofty price for the right to own this piece of modern old-school muscle.

• The Black Ghost, supercharged V8 and all, as-tested, comes out to $99,635
• The least expensive Last Call Edition, the Shakedown, packs a 485-horsepower 6.4-liter
• Hemi V8, and starts at $63,590 for the narrowbody, $67,490 for the widebody
• The most brutal Charger of the Last Call lineup, the King Daytona, has the same
  supercharged V8 as the Black Ghost and starts at $98,420
• The most expensive and most unhinged Last Call of them all, the Demon 170, starts at
  $100,361
• 

This is the End, Beautiful Friend

On December 31, 2023, a legacy of power draws to a close. Nearly 20 years of quarter-mile domination, nearly 20 years of waking up the neighbors with a rebel yell, nearly 20 years of old-school muscle modernized for a tougher era … vanished in a thick cloud of tire smoke. We will never see or hear the likes of these beasts again, and as of this writing, the only sign of a replacement is an electric muscle car concept called the Charger Daytona.

If you’re looking for an investment to flip on the auction circuit quickly, or to hold on to until selling it later, the Black Ghost and its Last Call siblings are the Mopars to drop your money into. If you’re seeking an experience few will have, the Black Ghost and the Last Call lineup are for you.

Otherwise, the Black Ghost and the rest of the Last Call models are best witnessed through the lens of history, far away from most people’s bank accounts and driveways. They are a special breed for a special driver.

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You know who you are: You need power underfoot. You need to feel your car move you, from the lift in your heart when you see it gleaming in the sun to the whisk of your stomach when you floor the accelerator. You love the rumble under your seat and the roar in your ears when the on-ramp ahead of you is clear and your car can do its thing. And you are a fan of the Dodge Challenger.

Related: Billie Eilish’s Dodge Challenger : A Teenage Dream

Last Call: Dodge Muscle Goes Out With A Roar

Dodge announced that soon the company will transition all its cars — and yes, its muscle cars— to electric versions of the much-loved sedans and coupes.

So this might be your last chance to buy one of these classic muscle cars. Dodge has billed this last generation of gas-powered muscle cars as “Last Call” editions. They are filled with power, technology and luxury touches.

The Dodge Challenger Shakedown, priced at about $68K, is a great one to target for its great power, heritage details and a nice edit of features. Only 1,000 were built and they will no doubt become collectors editions in several short years. If any of their owners are willing to part with them, that is. 

Related: “Last Call” Dodge Charger and Challenger Models Nod to Their Muscle Car Heritage

What the Challenger Shakedown is All About

Those 1,000 Challenger Shakedown models are, as is traditional for the Challenger, a two-door five seat coupe. Dodge crafted it with a classic heritage silhouette, defined by a long nose, a low stance and a sleek roof line.

It is built in one of two body shapes, a traditional standard body or a wide body, which has wider fender flares over the wheels; this is the model we test drove. And there is a manual for purists and an automatic those who don’t love a manual in city traffic.

The Shakedown edition is outfitted with Dodge’s 392 V8 engine, one of the most powerful the company builds. It’s iconic for its sound and the power it delivers. 

Related: The Ultimate Last Call: The Dodge SRT Demon 170 Delivers One Last Blast for this Muscle Car Lineup

Don’t Let the Muscle Fool You; This is Luxurious, Too

On the the inside, Dodge filled the Challenger Shakedown with luxuries; the seats an ceiling headliner are covered in Alcantara ultra suede; carbon fiber lines the center console and dashboard. The multimedia system features all the modern apps and systems you’d expect in a brand new car, and of course, there’s a premium Harman Kardon sound system. 

And then, there are details unique to this car, including red seatbelts, Shakedown badges on the interior and on the rear spoiler, stripes that run from the front bumper to the spoiler, and a scoop that pops from the hood, a giveaway that there’s a powerful engine underneath: The classic Dodge 392, a V8 powered engine that produces 485 horsepower.

Two Doors, Five Seats and Lots of Me-Time

This is the ideal car for anyone who can go where she pleases when she pleases. That’s because a two-door car is not as convenient for rear seat passengers as a four-door, though it’s good to have the seats available if you need them.

I found the rear seat convenient for my dog, for my handbag and for a light grocery run. If I needed more space, the trunk, which is on the small side, is perfect for a week’s worth of groceries. 

I did hop into the back seat and it’s comfortable; the seats are bucketed and the feeling is intimate. This rear seat has belts and child passenger LATCHes for three. Interestingly, the center seat is a big elevated (to help create two outboard bucket seats) and might be a good place to put an infant seat since it would not bump up against the front seat backs. 

And, with a full set of lower anchor and tether LATCHes, it should be easier to install than with a seatbelt installation. However, getting your adult-sized body into the rear to simply get the car seat, or the car seat base, into position for installation could be a challenge. 

What This Car is Like to Drive

Woooohoooo! I might just stop there. 

But really, it’s fun. A LOT of fun. It’s loud, with a growling, gurgly sound at startup that gets louder out on the road. 

I get the fanbase for this body style; you’re low to the road and driving isn’t a chore, it’s a thrill. You feel perfectly secured in the Challenger’s bucket seats, the Alcantara doing its job to keep you from sliding around and the side bolsters holding you in. 

On my test drive I took it out on the highway and let it loose; the Challenger Shakedown provided no shaking at all; it was solid on curves and hills, confident and capable. Maybe the only thing shaking are the leaves on the trees in your wake.

And if that’s the feeling you like to leave, get busy; the Dodge Challenger Shakedown, as well as the rest of the Last Call line-up, are collectors editions that will strike envy in the hearts of those not so lucky to get one, and smiles on the faces of those who do.

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Taking the 2024 Ford Mustang GT out for a first drive through the curves and over the crests of Southern California’s canyon roads was the perfect  way to experience the nuances of this redesigned classic. And I was floored by how much fun it is. I expected it to be fun, to deliver speed and confidence. To feel alive behind the wheel. But it was even better. The V8 powered is engine is delightfully noisy and the GT’s rear wheel drive (as a proper sports car has) propels the Mustang with power and confidence.

It was pure joy.

The GT is the king of the hill of the all-new 2024 seventh generation Ford Mustang lineup. And it’s been made over from the ground up, with a completely new engine, interior design, exterior look, new everything, in both the GT model and the lower priced, lower power but just as fun EcoBoost edition.

Priced from $42K-$52K and available in a hard top or convertible, stick shift or automatic, I can honestly say, the GT is better than ever.

Related: The 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost is All-New, But is it Enough?

Winding Canyon Roads: Perfect Me-Time

I love driving, and often take a drive for no reason other than to listen to my favourite songs, or in the case of a Mustang, listen to the engine note, downshifts and engine revs.

So Southern California was the perfect place to test out the 2024 Mustang GT. Our route treated to the winding hills, narrow turns and steep descents of the Angeles Crest Highway just outside of Los Angeles.

Angeles Crest demands more of the driver and car than just speed; the road is narrow, with mountain walls on one side and drop-offs on the other. In some places there is no shoulder, in many places the curves are blind. It takes intense attention and a car that can hug each curve then quickly gain speed. And for the 2024 Mustang GT, it couldn’t be a better fit.

Related: Ford Mustang Shelby GT500: The Fastest, Most Powerful Mustang Ever

What’s New Under the Hood

For the 20204 Mustang GT, Ford redesigned its Coyote V8 engine to deliver a new sound and performance. Coyote is Ford’s performance engine, found not just in the Mustang but in other high powered vehicles, including the F-150.

The new engine increases horsepower to 486 – up from 460– and delivers 418 lb-ft of torque. This engine has higher air flow rates and delivers a custom V8 sound. It sounds amazing, especially to one who loves that Mustang sound!

In true purist fashion, it comes with a standard 6-speed manual with rev matching, but a 10-speed automatic is available, too. I was able to try both the manual and the automatic versions on our test drive.

Related: What Drives Her: Laurie Transou, Chief Engineer of the Mustang Dark Horse

What Else Is new on the 2024 Ford Mustang GT?

Pretty much everything. The Mustang has been completely redesigned for 2024, top to bottom. It has a sleeker, more refined yet still classic Mustang look on the outside. It’s more tech-forward on the interior. Gone is the aeronautical cockpit look with lots of toggles and buttons.

Added is a simplified design with a single-pane screen that spans the dashboard and holds most of the functions. This screen houses the driver information screen and the multimedia system that also has been completely redesigned for 2024 but still retains some of that cockpit feel with gauges and displays that let you know how you’re doing on the drive. If you have the chance to look away from the road, that is.

The Most Fun You Can Have With a Car?

And then, there’s Drift Brake. This drive mode releases traction control and powers the car through curves while letting the rear end slide. We learned drifting on a closed auto cross course with a pro driver, and that’s exactly how I would recommend you learn to use Drift Brake: Someplace safe. But when you do, it’s a blast.

How Does the Ford Mustang GT Compare to the Mustang EcoBoost?

With the 2024 redesign, they look mostly the same on the outside and are mostly the same on the inside. The engines are different, of course, and so is the drive experience.

The EcoBoost has ample power. Plenty. Even on roads like Angeles Crest, where driver skill and the car’s performance dynamics, like the MagnaRide suspension that keeps you steady on the road despite bumps and quick turns, the response when you tap the accelerator, and the quick and confident grip of the brakes, the Mustang EcoBoost is fantastic.

But the GT, which has a starting price of about $12,000 more than the EcoBoost, takes it up even more. The more powerful, more responsive, more pronounced. The GT is for the true enthusiast who needs the full iconic experience. Who might take the Mustang GT to the track and let it do what it was designed to do. Who will learn to use Drift Brake.

And who will plan all week for me-time and the roads they’ll take. Who will picture the curves, the hills and the blind corners with anticipation, not dread, and smile. The Mustang fan who needs to live the Mustang life.

Disclosure: I was a guest of Ford for this test drive. Travel and accommodations were provided but all opinions are my own. Additionally, A Girls Guide to Cars may earn a commission from affiliate links in this story.

We got a chance to try the all new 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost 4-cylinder and the GT V8 back to back. Both are fun, both have had a full makeover, and both are incredibly accomplished on the track.

I won’t give any more away about the GT than that for now because there is so much to tell about the 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost.

The Ford Mustang is one of the all-time best selling sports cars, and for good reason. It invokes a carefree hit-the-road-in-style attitude. Get behind the wheel, feel the pull of the engine and in the convertible version, feel the wind in hour hair. An entire new multimedia system and new technology simplify the cabin and dashboard while giving you more function and options both on the road and on the track.

Related: What Drives Her: Laurie Transou, Chief Engineer of the Mustang Dark Horse

The 2024 Ford Mustang Ecoboost exterior is also new, but the interior is a show-stopper

The interior of the 2024 Ford Mustang Ecoboost is anchored by an all-digital dual screen display that spans the dashboard. It is totally customizable and focused on the driver. The digital driver display is 12.4″, customizable and incredibly crisp and clear with great animations of drive modes, visible gauges and technology derived from video game technology.

The 12.3″ center multimedia touchscreen now includes the climate control and some other vehicle settings, replacing hard touch buttons. While this is very common now, some will miss the hard touch climate.

Personally, I enjoy the seamlessness of it, it’s modern. As an owner, this means you will quickly adapt to not having a physical button for climate. It felt like being inside a very hot oven up in the hills outside of Los Angeles in July, and I used the touchscreen climate controls quite a lot during on our test drive. The air conditioning always cooled me off quickly and the ventilated seats were a welcome perk.

The multimedia screen features all the tech you’d expect; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both accessed via a USB port. Some Mustang models will have a wireless charging pad and USB ports above the cockpit to accommodate cameras and other track equipment for driving enthusiasts to collect content on the road or track. And, Alexa is also included in the multimedia system.

Related: 10 Affordable and Fun Manual Transmission Cars That Will Fire Up Your Stick Shift Dreams

Advanced Driver Assistance Features are Optional

The new Mustang comes equipped with available Ford Co-Pilot360 technology features; these include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering assist, evasive steer assist and reverse brake assist.

One helpful system that is standard is the FordPass app. This lets you remote start and stop the car, lock and unlock the doors, schedule a start time, locate the car in a parking lot, and check for things like oil, tire pressure and other health and statuses. You can even see when your Mustang is near the end of the warranty to make sure you take advantage of everything the warranty and service plans offer.

A New EcoBoost Engine That’s Powerful and Fun

For 2024, Mustang EcoBoost models have an all-new four-cylinder turbocharged 2.3-liter engine offering up 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Mustang’s EcoBoost models have always been fun and powerful and now, just a bit more power but a lot more fun.

Much of the fun comes from a new feature, electronic Drift Brake. This mode allows you to drift, or essentially accelerate and brake to sliding while turning, kicking up dust and smoke. It is immensely fun (though better on a closed road where you don’t put yourself or anyone else at risk). We learned to do this with a pro drifter in the passenger seat at the Irwindale Race Track in Pasadena, CA. He taught me to drift  through an auto cross course. We did it eight times and even learned to drift into a ‘box,’ a true Fast and Furious move. It was a blast!

Related: 7 Sexy Sports Cars to Fulfill Your Need for Speed

Drawing inspiration from RTR’s Formula Drift Mustang Spec 5-FD and engineered in cooperation with RTR drivers Vaughn Gittin Jr. and Chelsea DeNofa, the 2024 Mustang equipped with Performance Electronic Parking Brake slides through corners with the ease of a professional drift car while maintaining the performance, comfort, and design characteristics that define Mustang. The electronic drift brake unlocks the rear-wheel-drive drifting capability of Mustang with the visual appeal and functionality of a traditional, mechanical hand brake.

The Performance Electronic Parking Brake comes standard with the Performance Pack on all Mustang models.

If all this sounds like a lot it is. But it’s not all.

Mustang also introduced a new GT version. But that’s another story for another day… complete with photos and video. And then you’ll have to decide: is the 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost enough? Or are you GT all the way? Come back tomorrow for photos, video and details of how the new Mustang GT made me feel driving the winding canyon hills of Angeles Crest outside of Los Angeles! Our YouTube video also drops tomorrow morning first thing!

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

Disclosure: I was a guest of Ford for this test drive. Travel and accommodations were provided but all opinions are my own. Additionally, A Girls Guide to Cars may earn a commission from affiliate links in this story.

About 16 years after Acura shelved one of its most beloved cars, Acura has decided to resurrect the Integra. The Integra originally was developed in Japan and became such a hit there that Acura decided to bring it to the U.S. The Integra thrived and was a cornerstone of Acura’s lineup, until Acura developed the RSX. Bringing back such a classic 90’s legend is not an easy feat. Redesigning the 2023 Acura Integra for the 2020’s buyer, making it modernized and practical (and with a manual transmission in the top end model!) yet still retaining the qualities that made it so impactful when it debuted, is certainly a challenge.

Related: 8o’s and 90’s Kids Rejoice! Acura Announces the New 2023 Acura Integra

Nailing Sporty and Practical from Day One

The Integra was originally created in 1986 as a “sophisticated sports sedan,” designed to be “sporty as well as practical” according to the original press kit from Acura. Bold and fun, the Integra was also car that you wouldn’t be embarrassed to drive to that fancy restaurant. In developing the new 2023 Integra, Acura aimed to embody the same spirit as the classic. Today, the starting price range of $30,000 to $35,800 makes it a compelling consideration.

Related: The DNA of the Acura Sports Car: How the NSX Supercar Inspires the Rest of the Lineup

Does It Look Like An Integra?

Designed in Japan and built in Ohio (the American-sold vehicles, at least), the Integra carries elements of both modern and past Acura design. Overall, the styling of the Integra is most reminiscent of modern Acuras, with a front clearly from the same family as the brand’s other sedans, stocked with the brand’s signatures — jeweled headlights, “chicane” daytime running lights, and the diamond pentagon grille, although this vehicle will be the first sold with a more subtle-looking frameless grille.

Walking around to the back of the car, there are definitely some elements of the classic Integra’s style. The sloped roofline gives this car a unique look; not quite a coupe, not quite a sedan, and the long one-piece taillights and square cutout for the hatch release are directly inspired by the older Integras. “Integra” embossed on the front and rear bumpers also harkens back to past generations. 

Related: Can You Really Drive a Supercar? 12 Things To Love About the Acura NSX

Heritage Models Carry a Heavy Burden

It needs to look like an Integra–embodying the heritage of handling and performance, and as the original did, offering a counterbalance to the luxury of Acura’s larger, less sporty, sedans. Whether this car looks like what car enthusiasts expect an Integra to look like or not, it is a good looking car. Acura’s angular styling gives the car an aggressive look, yet it maintains a luxurious feel as well. These aggressive angles are further accentuated by the metallic grey called Liquid Carbon, and a stunning blue (an exclusive color for Acura’s sport-focused A-Spec package). I would like to have seen the Integra offered in some more exciting color choices outside of the red, blue, white, silver, grey, and black offered — after all, the original concept car was a fantastic yellow! 

For those who may want to add a bit of sporty styling to their Integra, the A-Spec package comes with 18” wheels, black trim, a black rear spoiler, and a black diffuser just under the front grille. Acura also offers optional 19” wheels, black underbody spoilers, and a carbon fiber package, with carbon fiber mirror caps and a carbon fiber rear spoiler. For the outdoorsy type, the Integra can be ordered with roof racks with bike, kayak, or ski and snowboard attachments. 

Related: The Newly Redesigned 2021 Acura TLX, For Girls Who Like the Strong Silent Type 

The 2023 Acura Integra’s Interior Did Not Disappoint

In the interior of the car, Acura delivers in the way the brand always does. While the new Integra may be built on the frame of the Honda Civic, when I sit in the driver’s seat I certainly don’t feel like I was in a Civic anymore (cue Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz?). The A-Spec package in the vehicle I tested had red heated suede front seats trimmed with leather with full leather backseats, which is great for easy cleanup when your friend spills his caramel ribbon crunch frappuccino, if you’ll let him in the car with that. While the front seats are heated and a heated steering wheel is an option, I do miss having ventilated seats.

Great Technology That Wows – and a Touchscreen! 

Per Acura’s standards, the car is stocked with technology. The multimedia screen is a 10.2” touchscreen. I am so grateful that Acura elected to fit this car with a touchscreen. In many of their other vehicles, Acura uses a touchpad to control the multimedia screen that I, personally, do not love (perhaps the Integra’s touchscreen is a sign of things to come?). To me, the touchscreen is much more intuitive and significantly easier to operate. With the Technology Package, this car also has wireless charging, wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto (although wired versions are available in the base model), a heads up display, Amazon Alexa, and award-winning 16-speaker premium surround sound audio.

The gauges are fully digital, and I love the animation on them. While you are driving the instrument cluster displays an animated Integra image between the speedometer and tachometer. This animation shows you where you are in your lane, illustrating the car drifting back and forth between the two lane lines, and lights up the brake lights and turn signals when you do the same. No more question of “will the car behind me hit me?” when your adaptive cruise control slows you down…now you can see your brakes come on! On the subject of active cruise control, I will note that traffic jam assist and low-speed follow are only available in the automatic version of the car — the manual only has standard active cruise control.

Driver Assist and Safety Systems Deliver, But Maybe Deliver Too Much?

The blind spot monitors in the Integra are in the mirrors and are a more noticeable light compared to the A-pillar-mounted lights on the Acura RDX, although I do feel that the notification sound is a little quiet. I would like an alert that will actually grab my attention in the event that I am about to merge into another car. The lane departure system on the Acura feels a bit aggressive to me. Rather than a simple pull in the steering wheel to direct me back into my lane, the steering wheel vibrates pretty dramatically. To me, this was distracting, and a bit of overkill. The lane keep assist, though, is a nice feature. Able to be turned on and off independently of cruise control, this feature gently guides the steering wheel to maintain your lane. Friendly reminder: You do need to keep your hands on the wheel. 

The Roominess Throughout the Integra is Notable

The backseat is roomy to say the least, and this is a benefit of being built on the Civic’s framework; for the 2022 remodel this compact sedan saw its length grow by 6″ and much of that extra space went into the rear seat. When I sat down, I began to think that I may have actually moved my driver’s seat forward by accident, because the leg room was so spacious. I’m 5’11”, for reference. With the sloped, fastback style roof, I expected to be short on headroom in the backseat, but was pleasantly surprised. Sitting bolt upright, my head did definitely touch the ceiling, but when relaxed, I barely grazed the headliner, which is a very different experience from other fastbacks that I have been in. 

The storage space on the Integra is unmatched to other sedans in the class because of the hatchback design. With passengers in the backseat, the trunk is similar to a standard sedan, but when the backseat is empty, the seats fold, giving well over double the cargo space. There is a decent lip dropping down into the trunk, though, so maneuvering large objects into and out of the trunk might be a bit of a strain.

Yes, There is a Difference Between the Drive Modes

Most importantly, though, how does the new Integra drive? The simple answer: great! But then again, what else would you expect from an Acura? Like other modern Acuras, the Integra has three drive modes: comfort, normal, and sport. In comfort, the electronic power steering is softened, giving you a gentler feel on the steering wheel. Power is reduced, as well, and active suspension (available on the Technology Package) softens, to give a smoother ride, while engine noise, which is piped into the cabin, is quieted. In sport mode, the opposite happens, stiffening up suspension and sharpening the steering. Unlike some cars where drive modes seem to exist more for fun than function, there are actually pretty distinctive differences between drive modes in the Integra. No matter what mode you’re in, the Integra feels comfortable on curves with steering that adapts with speed, ensuring as much comfort when sitting in traffic as cruising on the highway. 

Talking Up My Most Favorite Part of the Acura Integra

Now for the best (and worst) part of the car-the transmission. When I first hopped in the Integra, I was given a car with a manual transmission. Paired with the manual, the 200 horsepower four-cylinder engine feels peppy. Honestly, it feels like more than 200 horsepower. The manual is, in my opinion, easy to drive, although the shortness of the shifter and closeness between gears may produce some short-lived difficulty for some first-time manual drivers. The shifter is fairly notchy and stiff, and the clutch gives good resistance without giving you a left leg workout in traffic. The manual rev-match feature on downshifts is also excellent, allowing you to downshift with ease. On a side note, the manual (which is only available on the fully-loaded A-Spec with Technology Package) is accompanied by a limited slip differential, which provides greater handling and traction.

My Least Favorite Part of the Acura Integra

For those who may not want to struggle with driving manual, the Integra comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission, or CVT. This is where my elation with the car ends. On the bright side, the CVT “shifts” smoothly (since it doesn’t truly shift at all). On the not-so-bright side, the CVT feels a bit sluggish, though this is more likely due to the 192 lb.-ft of torque than the 200 HP it generates. Less torque = slower acceleration, after all.

Acura fitted the CVT with a “step shift” feature and paddle shifters to give the illusion of shifting through gears, but the feel of power when a true automatic downshifts just isn’t there, not to mention the lag between when you put your foot to the floor and the car actually accelerates. The manual feels like it puts out a peppy 220-or-so horsepower, giving you more confidence to merge onto a highway or cruise past a truck than the the CVT does. At this price, $30,600 – $35,800 MSRP, I would like for a car that feels a little more spunky and powerful.

The Integra Meets the Criteria, But Needs a Minute to Make it Magic

The Integra gives the professional business woman a weekend fun car with both comfort and class. An entry level Acura, it delivers Acura’s luxury at a fraction of some other Acura price tags, and even competes with other luxury brands like Audi, Mercedes, and BMW. To me, the new Integra does embody the practical-yet-sporty image that the original Integra sought to attain. It’s for those who want a cool look while driving kids to school (and they’ll have plenty of room in the back seat), or the hard-working business woman who road trips on weekends. With the luxury combined with the cargo and passenger space, it gives an option outside of both SUVs and sedans. I, for one, am excited to see the Integra return to the streets.

Disclosure: I was a guest of Acura’s to test the new Integra, all opinions and impressions are my own.

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

More and more women are getting behind the wheel fulfilling their need for speed. After all, we are just as worthy of the thrills and exhilaration of driving cars that blow your hair back and send your soul soaring. While we’d never recommend speeding beyond the legal limits, we do suggest finding those wide-open highways with higher limits to really open these babies up.

Sports Cars can be sexy, sporty and even practical.

While they are not practical for everyone, they’re a pure joy for many. Some only have 2 seats and limited cargo space. Luckily, car brands are recognizing that sporty vehicles can cross over for more practical use. You won’t necessarily need to give up a back row or even cargo space with some of our recommended sports cars.

Luxury Sports Cars that Inspire

Scotty Reiss, founder of A Girls Guide to Cars, describes driving luxury sports cars. She says, “You’ll get high fives, thumbs up and looks from everyone. Some will ask questions and others will complement your ride.  And other women? They LOVE seeing you in a car like this. They are inspired. If you can see her you can be her, after all.”

7 Sexy Sports Cars to Fulfill Your Need for Speed

1. Acura NSX

This stunner is made right here in the USA. It hugs turns with all-wheel drive and provides prompt acceleration when you need it. It’s surprisingly quiet with a tight design meant to keep out wind and road noise. It also boasts a super-luxurious interior with Alcantara suede, leather and carbon fiber. This baby is an investment though at nearly 200K with all the bells and whistles. Get it while you can; Acura is retiring this darling, but it’ll be back before you know it– with an electric motor.

Read all about the Acura NSX

2. Lexus LC 500

This car is definitely a head-turner. Can you imagine having this one in your driveway? Your neighbors will likely swoon. Girl Guide, Jill Robbins says she often felt underdressed when she ran errands in this beauty.  This car has luxury features from tip to tail. From a butter-soft leather interior to a super-stylish exterior, the Lexus LC 500 is no basic ridge. Take a glamorous slo-mo selfie in the convertible model.

Lexus LC 500 Convertible Review: What’s Under the Ragtop of this Exotic Luxury Sports Car

3. Chevrolet Corvette Stingray 

Exotic looks, incredible power, and great entry price (about $64,000) make the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray a fabulous choice in a sports car. If you’re new to driving a powerful car, it is great. If you’ve been driving cars that are powerful, it is great. Much of the flexibility the Corvette possesses is due to its drive modes that allow the driver to select how aggressively the car behaves.

This classic American sports car was redesigned in 2020 with a ‘mid-engine’ placement, meaning that much of the power is in the rear instead of under the hood. That means that you’ll feel a much more balanced drive, and you can take along even fewer things. Choose wisely, it’s worth it.

2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Empowers Women to Embrace the Sports Car Life

4. Porsche Taycan – The Electric Car that Takes Center Stage

Porsche announced it’s electric concept car back in 2015. Now, the Taycan is here to take your breath away. There’s no need to feel guilty about this car choice. Charging to 60 miles in only 5 minutes, you’ll be ready for a morning commute before you finish your cup of coffee. Starting at $153,000, the only guilt you may feel is watching your bank account take a hit. Otherwise, you’ll do your part to save the planet and still look like a “bad girl.”

A Tale of Two Porsche Taycans: Which of These Luxury Electric Performance Cars Will Win My Heart?

5. Toyota Supra

The iconic Toyota Supra finally made its return in the brand’s lineup and fans couldn’t be more excited. Until Toyota added a manual version to the lineup. But what makes them so excited? Not just the great drive experience that the GR Supra (GR is for Gazoo Racing, Toyota’s performance partner) delivers, but also, mechanicals co-engineered with BMW. And then, a great manual transmission, as writer Annika Carter found out. “We are talking about a great manual transmission. Available on the 3.0L, 3.0L premium, and the special edition A91 models, this is not a transmission pulled out of another car and slapped into the Supra. This transmission was designed and tuned for the car, and in turn, the car was adapted to the transmission. With a base sticker price at about $44,000, the Supra defines sporty luxury at a reasonable price.

It’s Here! The 2023 Toyota GR Supra MT Manual Transmission

6. Nissan Z

If this sweet little sports car looks familiar, it should, even though it’s a dramatic redesign of Nissan’s classic Z series. The new design brings heritage details into the modern era throughout, on the exterior, on the interior and even in the logo and cute little details.

The Nissan Z got a lot of praise for this redesign, even finishing the year as a finalist for the World Performance Car of the Year. Fans love its nod to the Z heritage that revived some of the original details, like the original logo and a nod to the front end and rear end designs.

Then slide into the driver’s seat, put it in gear – automatic or manual – and you’ll feel why legions of owners have loved this thing: It’s a blast to drive.

This darling of critics and enthusiasts is also popular for it’s very simple pricing that won’t break the bank: it comes in with a $40,000- to about $50,000 price tag. 

How to Know if the Nissan Z is the Sports Car For You

7. Lamborghini Huracan

Talk about joy ride. JOY. RIDE. It’s loud, it’s bumpy, you have to be crafty about where to put your purse. You need serious shoes, you’ll need to focus, and you have to learn how to drive this car; it’s not like any other car you’ve ever driven. And it’s glorious.

I wasn’t the only one who thought so. I had so many people in Santa Monica wave and smile as I drove by. A fellow Lamborghini driver pulled up beside me on Rodeo Drive to chat. A little boy and his brother rode their bikes by several times before they got up the nerve to ask if they could take a photo with it. It’s that special of a car. Yes, this kind of attention will set you back a pretty penny – nearly $300,000 – but if that’s not an issue, it’s worth every penny for the miles of smiles.

A Supercar to Remind Us of the Joy of Driving: 2022 Lamborghini Huracan EVO RWD Spyder

Sporty SUV Bonus Pick: Porsche Cayenne SUV

Redesigned for 2022, the interior is more elegant, more functional and more intuitive than ever. Somehow, it just got more Porsche. See what Sara Lacey found on her test drive.

Just Like A Solid BFF, the 2024 Porsche Cayenne Inspires You to Be Your Best Self

Sporty Sedan Bonus Pick: Lexus LS 500 F Sport

Allison Bell was ready for a dull but posh week in the Lexus LS 500 F sedan. Pampering interiors, lush leather, elegant design. And then on an afternoon errand … she put it in Sport+ and she’ll never be the same again.

2023 Lexus LS 500 F Sport: After These Driving Thrills, I Won’t Get Fooled Again

Sporty Electric Car Bonus Pick: Kia EV6 GT

This one took us by surprise, quite literally. It’s so quiet you don’t expect the power, the speed, the quickness that it reaches both. And then, there’s Boost mode. Yup. You’ll need that helmet.

Not Ready to Commit? Test it Out on the Track 

You can take most sports car on a spin on a test track; around the country are tracks with days set aside for just this purpose. Look for facilities near you, such as the Island Motorsport Circuit in Vancouver, BC. Or, you can schedule a session at the Porsche Experience Center at their locations in California and Atlanta. And the BMW Performance Center‘s tracks in California and South Carolina offer a great way to try out a their sporty sedans and coupes, as well as MINI Coopers,  on the track.

Move over fellas!

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

If you have a 2023 Nissan Z, you can make this dream come true. In its newest iteration, the Nissan Z has everything you could want in a sports coupe, coming in at around $39,900. The Z has had an overhaul and definitely makes people look at you on the road. It doesn’t hurt that my test car, which came in around $53,000, was a delightful bright metallic blue that pretty much forces people to look at it. I didn’t mind turning heads during the drive!

The updated looks are rooted in the Z’s heritage. When you look at it, you see nods to the past, and I love it. The headlamps, the slope of the roof towards the rear, and the oval taillights all remind me this car has been around a while. Plus, the design is fun for me because my dad had a 1990 Nissan Z. This 2023 version looked every bit like the modern retelling of that car.

Related: About a Car: The 2023 Nissan Z Sports Car Continues the Heritage With a Modern, Minimalist New Look

Let’s Begin with Some Details

The new Nissan Z starts at $39,990. Now, we all know there will be at least one or two add-ons that bump that price up, but it’s a good starting point for such a fun car. My test car was the Performance model, so it started at $49,990. That blue paint was an extra $1,295, and it also had illuminated kick plates and upgraded floor mats that took the price to $53,210.

The Z has a twin-turbo V6 that creates 400 hp. This means a lot of power in a little package. You really feel the speed! The steering is comfortable and responsive, and the Z really sticks to the road. The driver feels very much in control, whether you’re in the manual transmission or the automatic transmission version.

Related: Thanks to Volkswagen, I Learned to Drive a Manual Transmission

Who This Car Is For

• Drivers who want to have fun zipping around town, zipping around the country, zipping around pretty much anywhere
• Drivers who want sporty handling and a feeling of being connected to the car
• Drivers who don’t need to carry a bunch of people or stuff
• People who want to learn to drive a manual or further embrace their love of manuals
• Buyers who want to stand out in a crowd with a car that is distinctive yet embraces its heritage
• Drivers who want a weekend car to escape in

What You Need to Know

• This sporty coupe is a great car to learn how to drive a faster, more performance-focused car, or hone your skills if you already know
• The estimated mpg for the manual transmission version of the Z is 18 in the city, 24 on the highway, and a combined average of 20
• This car has some pretty significant blind spots
• You have your choice of a manual or automatic transmission. The driving experience is different in each, so it’s worth test-driving them both if you’re not sure which one you want

Related: The Toyota GR 86 Might Be the Best Little Manual Transmission Sports Car on the Road

The 2023 Nissan Z gets you from Point A to Point B quicker than you’d like

That’s both a good thing and a bad thing, depending on the situation. The journey will delight you, whether you’re going out for a quick lunch with a friend or a weekend drive. It was a comfortable car to be in despite its small size and low profile.

The seats are highly bolstered and kept me in place during all types of drives, and I loved that they didn’t make it difficult to get in and out of the car. They were leather and heated too. So when you get where you’re going, you’re kind of bummed that you’ve arrived.

Warning: Technical Information Ahead

The manual transmission is easy to use, and I would even say it’s a forgiving setup. The distance between gears is short, and the shifter moves quickly between them. The Z is fine operating within normal shifting areas that you may remember when you learned to drive (2500-3000 rpm), but doesn’t blink when you let them go higher. In fact, it jumps at the chance to accelerate. When allowed to do so, you will subconsciously react with a giant grin and see how much closer to the red line you can get.

That’s because the manual transmission is paired with the aforementioned 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6. That is a lot of power for this little car. And if you want to push it to the limit, the Z will let you. Nissan has added a rev-matching feature and launch control. But do not fear. The way the Z is built, you stay stuck to the road, and this inspires confidence and makes a driver want to explore the reaches of what the car can do. And that, my friends, is fun.

Related: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Getaway Cars — And Affordable Alternatives

The cockpit is a reminder that driving can also be a pastime

The driver’s seat is the place to be in the 2023 Nissan Z. The instrument cluster is actually a screen with three different options for what you want it to show you. Do you want more performance, track-racing type information like rpm and oil temperature? There’s a screen for that. It will also flash red when you get close to the red line. The regular screen has the speedometer front and center. Oh, and don’t forget the three cool gauges above the center stack that show the turbo speed, the turbo boost psi, and the voltage gauge.

I loved the aluminum pedals that were a part of the Performance package. It’s such a fun visual punch, and my feet did not feel slippy, even when I was wearing sandals with slick soles.

But truly, do you have to be a track racer to love the Z? Not by a long shot. The beauty is, if you want to learn, the Z has everything you need to get started. And keep happily going for a while, too.

Related: 12 Affordable Manual Transmission Cars, and 3 Splurges

Multimedia Systems are for Sports Cars, Too

I liked the 9” touchscreen in the Z. It was crystal clear and easy to use. You can employ Nissan’s interface for navigation, sound system, and more. You can access the Settings menu to customize the display a bit, and the Connections menu to add devices for using the phone or playing music.

If you prefer, you can use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto if you’re more comfortable with those interfaces. Below the screen are a few buttons, which I lovingly refer to as the “greatest hits.” Use them to skip ahead or back up a track in your music, select the audio menu, the vehicle menu, the map, and a “back” button.

Related: 15 Great Places to Put Your Handbag, Tote or Crossbody Bag in the Car

This is where I need to point something out. Nissan makes one of my favorite buttons of all time – the screen off/on button. Press it, and the screen goes dark. Press it again, and the screen comes on again, exactly as you left it. Why doesn’t everyone make this button and put it right out there where everyone can use it easily? Oh! And they put a “Camera” button right out there too, so you just press it and immediately see the views from the cameras! Yes!

Rant over.

The Z has a Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth phone system, voice recognition, and a text messaging assistant. The Bose sound system does not disappoint, and I loved listening to it. However, I also loved listening to the car, especially when it was in Sport mode. To be transparent, that’s because Nissan pipes in “enhanced engine sounds” to make your drive experience more immersive. And to be fair, Nissan is not the only manufacturer that does this. I loved it.

Let’s Talk About Safety

It’s a conversation we need to have, mainly because of the crazy blind spots in the 2023 Nissan Z. The price you pay for that beautiful design is not being able to see out of it very well. Therefore, it’s very good that the Z comes with an automatic blind spot warning system, emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and a rearview monitor.

Other safety features include rear cross-traffic alerts to alleviate the stress you will feel backing out of parking spaces or changing lanes. Plus, it has front and rear sonars to detect immobile objects. The Z is equipped with a lane departure warning system, intelligent cruise control, and a forward collision warning system. This system monitors traffic two cars ahead to make sure you are alerted if it slows quickly or comes to a quick stop.

And it might be that I was thinking more about them because the Nissan Z is a much smaller car than most out there on the road, but I was glad to learn that the Z has six airbags. It also has an advanced braking system with brake assist, and a traction control system as well.

So What Do You Get?

Most of what you get in the 2023 Nissan Z is what you would expect in a sports coupe:

• Driver assist and safety systems including blind spot monitor, lane departure warning, forward collision mitigation and adaptive cruise control
• 6-cylinder twin turbo engine
• Two drive modes
• Power windows and door locks
• Keyless entry and push-button start
• LED headlights and taillights
• Sirius XM radio
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system

Our test model came with the addition of the performance package, which adds things like 19” lightweight alloy wheels, performance brakes and calipers, SyncroRev match, premium leather steering wheel, Bose sound system, Wi-Fi hotspot, and 9” touchscreen. The package also includes leather power front seats that are also heated.

What This Car Costs

• Nissan Z base model, which includes all the above-mentioned standard features: $39,990
• Nissan Z Performance model: $49,990
• Nissan Z Limited Edition Proto Spec model (special yellow paint, interior details, and brake calipers): $52,990

Related: Buying New Tires? Dos and Don’ts to Find Your Best Fit

Who and what gets to go with you in the 2023 Nissan Z?

Um, not many people and not much stuff, to be honest. One passenger. A couple of overnight bags. A couple of small purses that can go on the cool shelves behind the seats (THANK YOU, NISSAN). And that’s about it. A week of groceries if you’re only shopping for two or three of you. But you knew this car wouldn’t be a grocery-getter. You knew I wasn’t going to tell you you could bring all five of your dogs with you, so you’re not surprised.

At first, I thought there was only one cupholder, but then I realized a second one was hidden underneath the crafty sliding lid of the center console. So you can bring two cups of coffee. The center console can also hold some necessities, as well as the glove box. So, what I’m trying to say is, you will have to edit your packing list if you are going on a trip in the Z.

The 2023 Nissan Z Can Help You Find (or Rekindle) Some Joy in Driving

The Nissan Z isn’t trying to be everything to you. It’s supposed to be your fun buddy that brings you joy behind the wheel. It will remind you that when you are driving a manual, you get to be fully engaged with the car and hopefully find some zen. To get it, you’ll need to tolerate an estimated 18 miles per gallon in the city, 24 on the highway, and a combined estimate of 20. But what else do you expect with a twin-turbo V6 that begs you to floor it everywhere you go? It’s a price I’d be willing to pay for speed and a manual transmission wrapped up in a dose of nostalgic modernity.

Disclosure: Nissan provided the 2023 Nissan Z for me to test. All opinions are my own.

I remember riding around in my grandma’s giant, yacht-sized four-door car. She could fit about seven people in there with room to spare. It would float down the highway with ease once it got up to speed, but that would take a good mile with the pedal to the metal. We’d roll the windows down and put our hands out, playing airplane with the wind. It was comfortable and spacious, and we loved it. It was not fast by any stretch of the imagination, and stopping on a dime? Forget about it. 

Fast forward a few decades.  Audi has been at the top of the luxury car class for generations. They know drivers, and they know families. With the newly redesigned 2019 Audi A7, which starts at $68,0000 and tops out at about $80,000, Audi has given the people exactly what they’ve always wanted. Not only have they engineered and built this sports car for the driver, they built this sports car with the 3 to 4 passengers in mind as well. What? Yes, a sports car with crazy-quick-off-the-line, put you in the back of your seat, speed. This A7 is not only fast, but it has the room to bring guests along for the ride. And maybe a memory or two in the process.

Related: Want luxury but need an SUV? This is what we thought of the Audi Q3 SUV

It’s So Quick, You Just Might Keep Up With Traffic in Austin

I’m sure it’s about the same on any highway in any big city. When there’s an opening in the traffic, you have to just go! Luckily, the new Audi A7 quattro (Audi’s term for all wheel drive) has four drive mode select settings that cater to anyones driving style: Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual. Choose the Dynamic mode, and you will get from 0-60 miles per hour in 5.2 seconds, which is just as fun as it sounds! The brakes are top notch too. They seemed unfazed by the quick stops made in rush hour traffic.

 While the majority of the car continues the same sleek body lines, most of the significant changes are around the back. Dramatic, full-length LED tail lights run along the entire back of the Audi A7 trunk. These 13 individual strips of LED’s play quite the light show when the unlock button is pressed on the key fob, especially at night.

Right above that sits the ultra sloped, hands-free power liftgate. I thought this feature came in handy especially walking up to the car with bags of groceries in hand. Once open, you’ll notice the largest cargo space in the class. We packed luggage for 5 people for a weekend getaway and plenty of room left over. It’s almost like having a station wagon. Almost. One other cool option I really enjoyed, was the active spoiler that pops up on the trunk when you reach seeds above 75 mph. It definitely looks and feels like you’re driving a race car.

Three’s Not A Crowd: Oh That Interior Space Though

The first thing I noticed as I popped open the frameless drivers door? The amount of space inside the cabin. I felt like I sunk down into a race car cockpit. The driver’s seat can easily accommodate someone on the taller side, with plenty of room to stretch out. The seats are both plush and sporty, with rich leather, optional heated and ventilated 12-way adjustable front seats with massage function. Even your passengers in the back get to enjoy contoured heated seats, along with 2 USB ports and a 12v power supply.  There was plenty of space back there for 3 adults, with more than enough room to feel like you weren’t in each other’s bubble.

Related: Need More Space For All Your Friends? The Audi Q7 SUV has 3 rows and tons of luxury

2019 Audi A7 Quattro Caters To The Driver With Exquisite Touches In The Cockpit

Sometimes, you just need to go for a drive. You need to get out of the house or away from the office, and drive. Luckily, the cockpit of the Audi A7 is made just for that.  The second you sink down into the contoured, rich leather seat you’ll feel all your worries melt away. Close the door and the cabin is perfectly quiet. 

All the menus and controls are angled towards the driver, creating a very user-friendly experience.

Audi did us a favor and got rid of all the clutter of the buttons, toggles, and switches. Those are replaced with two touch screens that are extremely quick and sharp, called the MMI touch response. It provides you all the information you need, such as navigation (“Where’s the nearest Starbucks?”), Apple CarPlay, your phone, your messages, and information about the car itself. Something I really love was it’s 360-degree view camera. It was especially cool when I was backing out of a parking lot, or going through the car wash. It even showed me a picture of it getting washed!

Things We Loved

• Apple CarPlay
• Heated/ventilated seats
• Paddle shifters
• Above parking camera – and the washing pic
• Taillight show when unlocking 
• Larger console with wireless charging and USB
• Ambient lighting on the dash, doors, and floorboards that change to match any mood

I feel like you get a lot of bang for your buck. There are three trim levels to choose from.

• Premium trim level starts at $68,000 MSRP. It comes standard with all-wheel drive, MMI navigation, sunroof, LED headlights
• Premium Plus trim level starts at $72,400 MSRP and comes standard with such luxuries as Audi virtual cockpit, Bang and Olufsen 3D premium sound system, top view camera system Virtual 3d view
• Or choose the top of the line Prestige trim level, which starts at $79,700, with head-up display, ventilated front seats with four-way lumbar support, four-zone automatic climate control, power door closers

Related: You Know You Deserve The Luxury Car. Find Out Why Its Worth The Splurge  

All in all, this newly redesigned Audi A7 is fast, comfortable, rich looking, boasts an amazing amount of storage, is technologically advanced and is downright eye candy! It’s a perfect haven for your busy commute or that next road trip. But it’s definitely not your Grandma’s four-door sedan.

Disclosure: Audi loaned me this 2019 A7 Quattro for a week. All opinions are my own.

If you’re a “Mopar or no car” fan, you already know how much fun it is to whip down the highway or the track in a Dodge Charger. But for anyone new to the scene, or new to performance cars, the 2020 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack Plus is a treat.

Four-door cars should take note of the Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack Plus with its innovation and attitude. Keep the family safe, too, while driving a sporty, fast car the way you like it. But what will the neighbors say? Ah, yes! “Can I get one, too?”

Well, for $39,995 you can. This sweet TorRed paint job rocks. Want this specific ride? This Dodge Charger is originally $57,050, although used model prices vary.

RELATED: THE 2020 DODGE CHARGER WIDEBODY: FAMILY SEDAN MEETS MUSCLE CAR

Cruising in a Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack Plus Feels So Good!

With a 6.4L V8 SRT HEMI MDS Engine, you’ve got 485 horsepower ready at will. Driving modes make it easier than ever to switch between drivers and their preferred handling. Do you prefer more control over the steering wheel and the drive experience? Or do you like your car with a firmer grip on the road to hug those curves? Choose your own adventure when you explore each drive mode. My favorite part is the ability to switch to the eco mode setup, so I can be nimble and efficient but stretch that tank to get a combined MPG of 18.

Why does it feel so good? When you’re pushing this car to its full potential, the automatic transmission effortlessly transitions between gears. You’ll know it by the roar, but you won’t be jostled around inside the Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack Plus. It’ll certainly give you a sense of confidence behind the wheel. I know I couldn’t wait for the red light to turn green.

The Charger Has Ample Charging and Seating For Everyone!

There are plenty of ways to enjoy your trip while you’re driving around town. If you need your phone ready at the helm, there won’t be any fighting over anyone hogging the charger again. There are multiple ways of charging for everyone in the Dodge Charger. You can find these both in the front and back seat. Whether it is down the street or across the country, plug into the many charging outlets and admire the convenience of being able to plug in with multiple charger options.

Speaking of convenience, and for those who are installing car seats, it’s a lot easier with 4-door cars. Fortunately, it isn’t that much of a difference between the Challenger and Charger. It comfortably sits 5 adults or 3 adults plus a car seat. However, the middle seat can be cramped if there’s a car seat to the left or right of it. My family loved sitting in this car because it fit us comfortably, securely, and had us ready to travel.

Related: Oh Hellcat Yeah: the Dodge Charger Widebody Might Be the Ultimate Sports Sedan

Red Car Don’t Care!

Investing in a new ride is where you imagine yourself creating memories. Intrinsically, it is where you’ll be sharing those dreams and activities with the ones you love in an unforgettable way. From the moment I saw it, I felt connected. When I heard it, I knew it was going to be a memorable experience.

It made my son want to go out more, so he could hear it remotely start or wave to other Chargers on the road. Red hair don’t care, and this red car doesn’t care to blend in with the crowd, so it was only a natural attraction here. Plus, the racing stripe detail is one of my favorite iconic aesthetics for sports cars. This red and black color combo is sure to turn heads if they don’t hear you first!

What We Love

• The color
• Awesome sound system
• Driver safety features
• Detailed navigation with the ability to call from the app
• Auto braking
• Valet mode
• The growl when you remote start it

We Need Texas-Sized Cupholders and Adventures to Explore in This Family Sports Car. Your Family Will Love the Thrill!

Whether you’re looking for a 4-door car for yourself or the family, you’ll have ample seating for everyone to hop in. I do think there could’ve been more space for a purse and bigger, Texas-sized cupholders. The trunk space has you covered for luggage and gear. Meanwhile, in the front and back seats, everyone can plug in and charge for the long road trip ahead. It’s exciting to find the perfect mix between a sports car and a family car, so you can still be cool, have fun, and create memories with a car they’ll love, too.

What We Listened to in the 2020 Dodge Charger: