Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins, Automotive Rhythms

Welcome to an immersive Genesis experience where the vehicle defines the man or woman behind the wheel. In this case, I’m referring to the new 2022 Genesis G80 AWD 3.5T Sport Prestige sedan, which is stunning in almost every department from the empowering shielded grille to its athletic performance. Its long, elegant, and attractive physique is uniquely outfitted all around, and the thrilling drive from its 3.5-liter V6 is more than memorable. Plus, the G80 Sport includes a complimentary Service Valet with scheduled maintenance and at-home pick-up for three years / 60,000 miles. Genius!

The modern building supports the vertical column three-dimensional parking lot; Shutterstock ID 1815865616; purchase_order: -; name: -; client: -; email: –

My weekly loaner arrived in a Tazman Blue hue, but I prefer the G80 Sport in Cavendish Red, inspired by the stunning red sand of the cliffside township on Prince Edward Island in Canada. Pretty clever. The ride pops from exclusive dual oval exhaust tips, LED quad headlights, and 20″ sport alloy wheels as part of the optional $6,300 Prestige Package. This upgrade also includes an electronically controlled suspension, rear-wheel steering (a company first), carbon fiber trim, heads-up display, Nappa leather, and a few other tech features. Yet, I can do without the gimmicky Remote Smart Parking Assist. I’ve used the feature once on a Hyundai and decided never again because it’s not a natural parking act and requires too much time. The 5-star rims are finished with a pronounced waffle pattern that you will love or hate. I think they are cool, but traditionally Genesis does not make desirable rim styles.

Safety seems to fall to the back of the line when discussing sport-luxury vehicles, but Genesis ensured that its suite of advanced driver assistance technologies took precedence. Bravo since the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) honored all 2022 Genesis models with the TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) for this year. For example, the G80 includes Forward Collision Avoidance-Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and more. “At Genesis, safety is our top priority and the customer is at the center of every decision we make,” said Claudia Marquez, chief operating officer of Genesis Motor North America. “Safety is emphasized in the design and engineering of our award-winning vehicles.”

2022 Genesis G80 Sport 20 wheels

Yes, the vehicle is quick, agile, and dynamic, with perpetual grace emanating from the V6’s 375-horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. A 2.5-liter G80 is also at your disposal starting at $48,000. AWD, Pirelli P Zero performance tires, and a sports-tuned suspension allow you to handle the G80 with more aggression if you choose. I enjoyed shifting the 8-speed automatic through the paddle shifters while cruising smoothly in Comfort or Sport modes. However, be careful with Sport + mode since that setting turns off traction control. More importantly, the Korean sports sedan will self-brake if it thinks you’re about to rear-end someone or hit something.

The grandeur of the interior is highlighted by V-patterned leather sport seats that hug your ribs during maneuvers, carbon fiber trim (sport aluminum standard), panoramic sunroof with a split opening shade, and sport model-specific 3-spoke steering wheel. Creative liberty resulted in a knurled rotary gear dial, control pad, volume and tuner, temp controls, side view mirror controls, and window tab tips. Silver grilles for the 21-speaker premium Lexicon audio system almost match the knurled knob theme. A small digital touchscreen is utilized for the 3-zone climate adjustments and a 14.5” HD touchscreen takes center stage for apps, music, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, I would like to see USB-c ports for the next model year update. The control module is a bit overdone as well. It feels like an intermix of what BMW and Lexus implement for operating the infotainment system. Passengers will be delighted with the exemplary space and comfort in the rear.

Starting at $63,450 for the 3.5-liter G80 Sport, my G80 AWD 3.5T Sport Prestige package came in at $71,670 with all its shiny bells and whistles. With thoughtful safety features, standout styling, and too many cockpit amenities to mention, the latest G80 is a solid luxury option for your vehicle portfolio.

Words by Kimatni D. Rawlins / Photos by Matthew Reyes

Welcome to the City of Angels with actress and producer Khaneshia JaNea Smith — better known on-screen as KJ Smith — to explore more depth and personality of the charismatic entertainer and lifestyle influencer. She profiled idyllic locations from Malibu to Melrose Place by way of the all-new 2022 Lexus NX 350h AWD Luxury in Atomic Silver. We rolled around the Cali streets styling while seeking opportunity in every turn with a responsive 14” Touchscreen Display and a Panoramic Glass Roof to view the alluring scenery above.

KJ Smith is a rising star on the Hollywood scene and continues to trailblaze pathways toward film and TV success while depicting respected female personas. A transcending role in Ava Duvernay and Oprah Winfrey’s drama series Queen Sugar quickly catapulted her career and introduced new audiences to her likeness. KJ Smith is currently playing the role of high-powered attorney Andi Barnes in Tyler Perry’s comedy-drama series Sistas on BET. Whether traveling en route to the studio, hitting the beach for yoga, or finding an inviting spot to relax and read scripts, there’s nothing like the proficient flow of her ride’s Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management. The Pacific Coast Highway and Mulholland Hills were the perfect testaments to these NX attributes.

Actress-KJ-Smith-All-New-2022-Lexus-NX-350h-AWD_20. Photos by Matthew Reyes.

Making movies is no small task; therefore, downtime and self-care are vital to balancing energy from various denominations of responsibility. Welcoming Automotive Rhythms into her world of showbiz, wellness, and philanthropy for a “Day in the Life” video segment, KJ showcased how she multitasks with efficiency like the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine + hybrid electric motor that achieves an astounding 41 city mpg. But, of course, the pricing was paramount for the production team since California was nearing $7 a gallon during our weekend set.

In LA’s eclectic and fascinating metropolis, you can experience more than a few attractions and places to remain atop the culture and contemporary health trends. She focuses on exercising to stay fit like her Lexus whip. For this reason, asanas on Malibu beach are a perfect segway into her wellbeing initiatives. KJ’s life revolves around evolution, from technology to uplifting the youth. So, connecting with brands like Lexus work because of the luxury automaker’s consistent elevation. For example, the next-generation technology from the Lexus Safety System+3.0 adds confidence and assurance to her journey. Additional innovation includes Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Steering Vibration, Vehicle Sway Warning, Road Sign Assist, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Intelligent High Beam.

Actress-KJ-Smith-All-New-2022-Lexus-NX-350h-AWD_20. Photos by Matthew Reyes.

As an avid mental health campaigner, KJ Smith decided to become a mentor at (YES) Youth Emerging Stronger, which provides mental, emotional, financial, and educational support to homeless and foster adolescents. She strives to spread positivity and encouragement to juvenile generations. Her philosophy is that everyone can overcome adversity and follow their dreams with the necessary support.

“Of course, I have a health plan to eat clean, bike, strength train, and enjoy various forms of exercise to keep my body and mind as energized and evolutionary as this Lexus hybrid,” stated KJ Smith.

Actress-KJ-Smith-All-New-2022-Lexus-NX-350h-AWD_20. Photos by Matthew Reyes.

Riding from locale to locale, KJ stayed connected with the latest Lexus Interface featuring a 14” Touchscreen Display, Intelligent ‘Virtual’ Assistant (Hey Lexus), wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, and Lexus-Enform Wi-Fi. She especially enjoyed rocking out to the Mark Levinson 17-Speaker Premium Audio system. In addition, of course, she loves evening hues, so the 64-color range interior ambient lighting settings were on point. Ah yes, there’s nothing like a fully-loaded experience!

“I’m constantly curating ideologies for my next primetime opportunity. Accordingly, when cruising through Studio City with the NX and its infectious Rich Cream interior, my thoughts easily become synchronized with the task at hand,” Smith continues. Since the NX can easily fit a crew of five and is compact enough for parking in tight situations, Sunday brunch with her girls is always a simple scenario.

Actress-KJ-Smith-All-New-2022-Lexus-NX-350h-AWD_20. Photos by Matthew Reyes.

KJ Smith continues to broaden her portfolio with each role and conveys an authentic persona that drives her commercial appeal across platforms. And when it comes to marketing, she is highly immersed with upscale brands and prefers that both her wardrobe and the styling of her ride resonate with the requisite pillars. That denotes at least 20” alloy spins, jeweled exterior trimming, the attention-grabbing spindle grille, and Bi-LED headlamps. Rightfully so, the next stop was Beverly Hills because who doesn’t enjoy weekend shopping?

Writing yet another chapter in the book of compact luxury SUVs, the all-new 2022 Lexus NX expands upon the legacy it has carved out in the segment and continues to win over youthful souls like KJ. Whether she’s on-set, curating concepts, or mentoring our children, KJ is set on uplifting the community. As they say in the film industry, “that’s a wrap.”

Expect an MSRP of $53,840 for the 2022 Lexus NX 350h AWD Luxury model. And make sure to tap into the Digital Key, an available service and NX feature. It lets the driver use their phone as a key without having the fob present. Additionally, owners can share it with family or friends so they can access and drive your NX. Now please go “experience amazing” exclusively at your local Lexus dealer.

Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins, www.AutomotiveRhythms.com

With the pandemic seemingly beginning to dwindle, people have been anxious to travel freely again, whether for vacation or simply to an idyllic destination for a work trip. In my case, I was able to unify the best of both worlds through an excursion to Palm Springs, California, to explore the depths of the all-electric 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge crossover while enjoying downtime in the desert oasis of The Parker Palm Springs.

Work-life and obligatory family responsibilities call for the mind, body, and spirit to recharge as often as possible to offset daily burdens. Therefore, the relaxing resorts, cultured experiences, plant-based eateries, and the mid-century modern architecture of Palm Springs were perfect for my journey. But what’s even more interesting is that the profusion of electric vehicles (EVs) on the market has led us to consciously rethink our lifestyles in order to reduce carbon footprints from what we eat and drink to how we drive and live. Humans overconsume in every category, so mindfulness, minimalist, and reductive habits are vital pillars to saving this planet from self-destruction. As a vegan myself, I know it’s an anomalous approach from the norm; however, it is necessary for every facet of living.

Volvo Car USA invited auto media for a vacation-styled test drive of the C40 Recharge — its first pure electric Volvo – for a climactic experience behind the wheel of the latest evolution of Scandinavian engineering, design, and sustainability. An ambitious transformation plan will lead to complete electrification of its vehicles by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2040. The Volvo EV, built in Ghent, Belgium, is also the first to feature a leather-free interior that ultimately reduces the vehicle’s weight, increases its levels of compassion, and decreases its carbon footprint since 14.5% of all human-generated greenhouse emissions stem from animal agriculture.

This goal was a personal ambition of Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson, who had to persuade company executives and Volvo dealers that this was the righteous path for evolutionary vehicle development. Volvo partnered with Asian-American fashion designer Phillip Lim to fabricate handbags from the Nordico cabin materials that Volvo developed to convince the dealers’ wives that sustainability can be premium. In the end, the majority concurred. The Microtech, a suede-like fabric, and its quality textures are made from recycled PET bottles, bio-attributed material from sustainable forests, and wine bottle corks. “We have a vision of where we need to go in the future, with the first step to ensure we harness sustainable, natural, and recycled materials,” said Robin Page, Head of Design at Volvo Cars.

After flying into Palm Springs International Airport, you will pick up your EV and head to The Parker to relax poolside at the Gene Autry or Silicon Valley while recouping. The iconic property is one of the most eclectic and art-based hotels in America. Yes, it also has charging stations onsite to re-energize your ride. As part of the Fit Fathers movement, I’m all about exercise when traveling, so activities such as the Terre Battu tennis courts, hitting the fitness studio, yoga, bicycling, and hiking were all up my alley. The Palm also offers Croquet, a giant chess set, and golf. In addition, the Palm Springs Yacht Club provides facials, massages, manicures, an indoor pool, and much more for self-care.

Ready to ride quietly and efficiently in your bubble-shaped Fjord Blue Metallic C40 Recharge featuring a black glass roof, black dual rear spoilers, black lower body surround, 20″ eco-styled rims, and unique closed grille? Its magnetic blue personality is stellar, and vigor is impressive when calling upon the 402-horsepower from the battery-electric powertrain featuring permanent AWD. This came in handy during mountainous uphill driving through Coachella Valley en route to Cahuilla Tewanet Vista Point to learn about the Cahuilla people who gathered Nakwet berries, Tevat nuts, Hunavet leaves, acorns, Mutal plants, and more for food and to make essentials like baskets. The rugged and arid landscape provided every resource they required, although an intimate understanding of how to source and craft each was paramount. There is also a nature path to take a meditative walk before journeying to your next destination.

The 226-mile drive range from the 78 kWh high voltage battery is plenty for touring around Palm Springs, but I would like to see around 300 miles before a power source is required, which seems to be the norm with premium EVs. You can charge 0% to 80% in roughly 40 minutes with DC fast charging. Volvo recently partnered with Star bucks to have ChargePoint infrastructure placed along a 1,350-mile route between Denver and Seattle. As many as 15 locations and 60 DC Fast Charging handles will be available to coffee lovers of the popular café.

For my next stop, I used the new 9” center touchscreen and Google ecosystem that integrates Google navigation, Google calendar, Google Play for music and talk shows, and

Google Assistant, which supports natural speech. Say “Hey Google” and tell the system your destination. I prefer Google maps on my phone and love this technology over CarPlay. The updated multimedia system also reduces the complexity and distraction of Volvo’s prior system. The C40 Recharge escorted me by Angel Cove Monument and then to an exquisite Garage Living home located off the picturesque Winter Sun Drive. In this case, the custom garage transformation company outfitted the single-family residence with:

• Three Volvo-branded Level 2 home chargers
• Flexible work-from-home space with built-in desk and foldable meeting table
• Entertainment center with state-of-the-art smart TV and Bowers & Wilkins speakers
• Innovative storage solutions for active lifestyle equipment

For a healthy, plant-focused lunch, I stopped at Chef Tanya’s Kitchen for some of the most delicious vegan food I have ever eaten. Wow, I was in heaven as the choices were abundant, from Tempeh burgers and power salads to chickpea TuNo salad sandwiches and Moroccan roasted cauliflower. The chef’s ideologies match succinctly with Volvo’s as she’s inspired by love to make good food that is natural, healthy, and kind to the environment.

After fueling with fresh foods, continue your sightseeing to various famous architectural sites using the C40 Recharge’s one-pedal drive feature. You engage just the gas pedal since lifting off of it slows down the Volvo as if you hit the brake pedal. Though, it can be remarkably abrupt. My afternoon was highlighted by views of The Kauffman House, the first Swiss Miss House, Dinah Shore House, Forever Marilyn, That Pink Door, and the Park Imperial South.

En route back to The Parker, I tuned to the Marley station on SIRIUS / XM as the melody flowed from the impressive Harman/ Kardon audio system. The interior is roomy, effervescent, and stylish, especially the handcrafted Crystal gear knob. I made it back in a flash to rest up in my cozy poolside room featuring a Bougainvillea-clad patio. So, what are you waiting for? Switching to an EV provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuel-powered transportation. And with an array of cost-effective, high-quality home chargers available, going electric is simpler than ever.

The 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge is sold exclusively online with a $58,750 MSRP but includes the full federal tax credit of $7,500. “Conscious design can fundamentally transform our society, and it’s integral that brands harness the opportunities on offer,” said Martin Raymond, Co-Founder of The Future Laboratory. Yes, I agree wholeheartedly, but now it’s time to end my temporary routine from the norm and head back to the East Coast. So long, Palm Springs, until we meet again!

Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins, Automotive Rhythms

The opulent and mechanically-savvy Range Rover (RR) is the consummate SUV for connoisseurs of the finer things in life, from travel to housing to automotive. Over the past 50 years, Land Rover has asserted its dominance in the US marketplace while appeasing the minds and souls of its loyal consumer base. Spend a few moments in the neighborhood of Hollywood Hills, for example, and you will see the omnipresent vehicle dominate every block. A Range Rover is not just a means of driving pleasure, but a representation and symbolism of your achievements which should always be celebrated.

To introduce the 2022 Range Rover luxury SUV, Land Rover held an exclusive gathering at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Hollywood, CA where executives, including Chief Creative Officer Gerry McGovern, presented the 5th generation model to the media, enthusiasts, and lifestyle influencers. Fans will be happy to hear about the addition of a three-row, 7-passenger variant as well as the opulent SV Serenity LWB (Long Wheelbase) edition that feels Queen and Kingly when seated in the rear. In 2024, a pure-electric Range Rover will add to the current 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged stalwart V8 engine distributing 523-horsepower and 553 lb.-ft. of torque. Dynamic Launch provides a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds.

“The New Range Rover is a vehicle with a peerless character, from the impeccable restraint of its exterior to the flawless tranquil sanctuary of its cabin,” stated Prof Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, Jaguar Land Rover. “Informed by creative intellect and a desire for perfection, it doesn’t follow fashion or trend, but by a modernist design philosophy, combined with over 50 years of evolution, it is quite simply the most desirable Range Rover ever created.”

The 5th generation Range Rover is ripe with refinement and presents sophisticated engineering innovation and aspirational design techniques both externally and inside the exquisite cabin. Moreover, the RR is the best-selling luxury vehicle model over $100,000. However, the British SUV has also been problematic from a quality control standpoint, so hopefully, the reinvention addresses the concerns of prior generations. Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) updates for the 70 electronic modules could be the solution, but only time will tell. If so, technical supremacy from Land Rover will prove to be worthy at this inflection point of creative significance.

During the business presentation, Land Rover stated that one of the goals is to connect with consumers on a desirable level and delve into their consciousness to understand focal points of decision-making. Do I desire it? Does it do what it is supposed to do? Is it reflective? To ascertain objectives were met, a key differentiator for Land Rover was introduced under the designation “modernism.” This equates to margins free from excess and limitations. The formula provides a clean and reductive design flow. The vehicle now presents flush extremities such as the door handles and a decrease in lines for a cleaner flow. Additionally, its outline is more aerodynamic and resembles an electric vehicle with a futuristic interpretation of the traditional Range Rover.

Other highlights include vertical taillamps hidden in Gloss Black when not in use and light up as Vivid Red LEDs when operational. Digital LED headlights can blank out reflections while focusing on 16 objects simultaneously. Unique hues and two-tone front-to-rear contrasting colorways (SV) will make your vehicle pop and stand out from the crowd. As well, the body architecture is up to 50% stiffer thanks to MLA-Flex technology.

We all know that luxury SUV owners rarely take their precious gems off-road, but it’s a tradition for Land Rover’s fleet, including the New Range Rover. With Terrain Response 2 and six driving modes, the RR can still cruise through water and rise 5.7” over standard ride height through the all-new Electric Air Suspension with Bilstein monotube dampers. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and standard All-Wheel Steering provide optimum grip and a turning radius comparable to compact vehicles. Lastly, a Dynamic Response Pro and pre-emptive suspension and eHorizon Navigation data analyze the road ahead and prepare the SUV to respond accordingly.

Open up the Power-Assisted Doors for a warm presentation of intelligence, purity, and relaxing ambiances. Unique materials and premium textiles feature smooth ceramics like the gear shifter, intricate mosaic marquetry, lustrous plated metals, soft near-aniline leather, as well as sustainable non-leather Ultrafabrics and Kvadra wool-blend. A new 13.1″ curved, floating touchscreen with haptic feedback and Pivi Pro Infotainment take center stage with 90% of all functions just two touches away. Previously, it was utter confusion trying to navigate through the menus. Additional conveniences come in the form of a built-in Amazon Alexa system with instinctual verbal commands for music, navigation, smart home devices, etc., 1,600-watt Meridian Signature Sound System, Next-generation Active Noise Cancellation technology, intuitive climate control, lit multifunctional steering wheel controls, 11.4” rear touchscreens, 14 power and data points for connection, and WiFi hotspot for eight devices.

With the wheelbase increased by 3” legroom also has been improved. Land Rover added tailgate seating for the rear, but the setup is pretty disappointing since it’s nothing more than simple pads. In addition to the standard wheelbase, the RR comes in three LWB seating configurations, including the normal 5-seat variation, a 4-seat SV Signature Suite configuration, and the three-row 7-seater, which will compete with the Cadillac Escalade and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. But I find the proportions too bulky and the model’s disposition entering the scene a bit too late. BMW attempted a three-row SUV with the X7, and it still hasn’t caught on in popularity.

Handcrafted by Special Vehicle Operations, the specifically curated SV Serenity and SV Intrepid design themes amplify an already highly desirable vehicle. Priced from $104,000 in the US, the New Range Rover is available to order now. Expect deliveries to begin in spring 2022.

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Dubbed “The Driving Force,” the program will offer multimedia career development to HBCU undergraduates while simultaneously showcasing African American scholastic talent to automobile companies.

Durham, NC – A unique opportunity has been created for HBCU students interested in covering or working in the automobile industry from a media, marketing, and business perspective. Dubbed The Driving Force (TDF), founding members of the Black Automotive Media Group (BAMG) recruited 15 scholars to participate in the 10-week, virtual, field internship, which incorporates mentoring sessions, writing classes, video and photography production, and media courses.

“We are excited that Stellantis and the Black Automotive Media Group have engaged with NCCU students in providing this unique opportunity,” said Keisha Williams, director of marketing/communications NCCU School of Business. “The exposure to industry received through this experience will be of great significance to both their professional and academic lives.”

TDF evolved following discussions between automakers and BAMG relating to increased programming for deserving but often neglected schools. While those conversations began to improve the diversity and inclusion of African American journalists covering the industry, an idea presented itself to help prepare the next generation of automotive media professionals. With four HBCU and auto manufacturer partnerships established, this fall’s collaboration connects Stellantis with North Carolina Central University (NCCU) enrollees from the School of Business and the Department of Mass Communications.

“Possibilities! When BAMG visited NCCU’s campus to present our students with new possibilities and career development choices, they responded with eagerness and enthusiasm,” stated Brett Chambers, lecturer, Department of Mass Communication. “Correspondingly, they now have a keen understanding of the power of networking, so I look forward to this internship representing productive efforts for all parties involved.”

In its second year, TDF will expose interns to careers as journalists, videographers, marketers, publicists, digital media associates, and social media influencers within the auto industry. Students will showcase their work on various platforms during the program, including vehicle evaluations, video advertising projects, and content creation and hosting. They will also liaise with automotive executives from Stellantis and companies that support the industry, from Turtle Wax and Bose to JBL and Michelin.

“An important part of our longstanding, enterprise-wide commitment to diversity and inclusion is our investment in diverse people and communities sharing our success and expanding access to future opportunities,” said Lottie Holland, Director – Diversity, Inclusion, Engagement and EEO Compliance, Stellantis – North America. “We are excited to collaborate with the Black Automotive Media Group and North Carolina Central University to expand awareness of future career opportunities in the automotive industry for talented young people.”

TDF is led by respected media experts Kimatni D. Rawlins, publisher of Automotive Rhythms Communications, Greg Morrison from Bumper2Bumpertv, auto expert Marcus Amick, and an array of Black automotive media journalists and publishers.

“Our collaboration with Stellantis and North Carolina Central University marks the 4^th diversity-focused and academic program for BAMG that allows us to extend new pathways to HBCU students,” stated BAMG founding member Kimatni D. Rawlins. “An internship with automaker Jaguar 25 years ago deeply influenced my decisions, ultimately leading to comprehensive experience and an extensive automotive career. Thus, creating similar opportunities for African American interns with a strong interest in this field represents another opportunity to uplift our kids.”

Greg Morrison, a Lincoln University alumnus whose 52-year career in the industry with media outlets such as CNN, NBC, The Black Family Channel, and others, said, “This brings my career full circle. Many events in our country led to the awareness that Blacks are underrepresented in many industries, and BAMG is proud to have created the synergy between the auto industry, HBCUs, and student media hopefuls.”

About Stellantis

Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) is one of the world’s leading automakers and a mobility provider, guided by a clear vision to offer freedom of movement with distinctive, affordable and reliable mobility solutions. In addition to the Group’s rich heritage and broad geographic presence, its greatest strengths lie in its sustainable performance, depth of experience and the wide-ranging talents of employees working around the globe. Stellantis will leverage its broad and iconic brand portfolio, which was founded by visionaries who infused the brands with passion and a competitive spirit that speaks to employees and customers alike. Stellantis aspires to become the greatest, not the biggest, while creating added value for all stakeholders, as well as the communities in which it operates. 

About North Carolina Central University: School of Business

The School of Business delivers high impact undergraduate and graduate business education programs through innovative teaching, relevant scholarship, and academic service learning. NCCU School of Business offers programs of study leading to Bachelor’s degrees in Accounting, Business Administration (with concentrations in Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Financial Analytics, General Business, and Human Resource Management), Information Technology (Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, and Computer Information Systems), and Hospitality and Tourism Administration (face to face and online program). The School offers the MBA and joint graduate degrees with other programs on campus, including the MBA/JD (with the School of Law) and the MBA/MIS (with the School of Library and Information Sciences). Five MBA concentrations were added inclusive of Marketing, Data Analytics, Hospitality and Tourism, Real Estate and Wealth Management.   A new business school facility is under construction with anticipated completion in 2022.

About the Black Automotive Media Group

The BAMG is a distinguished group of Black reporters, publishers, writers, and entrepreneurs representing over 200 years of combined experience in automotive journalism within radio, television, print, experiential marketing, and social media. BAMG members either work for or own various automotive media platforms targeting diverse audiences. BAMG’s primary objective is to bring equity and equality to Black professionals who work in and around the automotive industry. For additional details regarding The Driving Force HBCU internship program, please visit AutomotiveRhythms.com.

By Jeff Fortson of JeffCars.com, NNPA Newswire Contributor

Highlight: Love it or hate it, the vehicle offers a Lexus-like touchpad controller.

Test Vehicles MSRP: $32,610(Base MSRP: $24,690)

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; traction control; fog lights; heated power side mirrors; rear wiper; a rear-view camera; a hill start assist system; a tire pressure monitoring system; and a temporary spare tire

Standard Equipment (Base ES Model): 16-inch wheels; front-wheel drive; halogen headlights; front bumper center; black lower door trim; a rear privacy glass; electric power steering; roof spoiler; a single zone automatic climate control system; cloth seats; manually adjustable front seats; a sliding rear seat with a recline feature; a manually operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; and a variety of driving modes

Standard Equipment (SEL Model): 18-inch wheels; all-wheel drive; LED headlights; chrome grille; paddle shifters; an 8-way power driver’s seat; heated front seats; a rear seat center armrest with cupholders; a leather wrapped shift knob; a 7-inch infotainment screen; SiriusXM radio; Apple CarPlay and android compatibility; automatic off/on headlight feature; a 360-degree camera; a heads up display system; power folding side view mirrors; illuminated visor vanity mirrors; a dual zone automatic climate control system; an electronic parking brake; an automatic hold brake feature; center console box compartment tray; and blind spot warning with a rear cross traffic alert system and a lane changing assist system

Options: Red Diamond exterior color; a tonneau cover; a dual pane power panoramic sunroof; a premium 9-speaker audio system; a forward collision mitigation system; a lane departure warning system; a radar activated cruise control system; a forward collision mitigation system; a lane departure warning system; a radar-activated cruise control system; automatic high beam headlights; a heated steering wheel; rear heated seats; automatic dimming rear view mirrors; and roof rails

Other Trim Levels: LE, SP, SE

Standard Audio on Test Vehicle: a 6-speaker AM/FM/HD audio system

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

Apple CarPlay/Android Compatibility: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder turbo engine/152-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage: 26-city/29-hwy

What’s New: After joining the lineup last year, the vehicle is virtually a carryover for the 2019 model year. In 2018, the product planning team at Mitsubishi resurrected the Eclipse name, a once sporty two-door model.

Why: The stylish compact crossover is available in a variety of trims. In fact, in terms of crossovers, the vehicle slots between the compact and midsize segments. The hatchback-like design mimics that of BMW’s popular X4 and X6 models. The spacious Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is powered by a front wheel drive or an all-wheel drive configuration. With the exception of the base ES model, an all-wheel drive configuration is standard on all of the trims.

We spent time behind the wheel of the higher end SEL trim. The vehicle offered a premium interior and loads of amenities normally reserved for pricier vehicles. Our vehicle included everything from a touchpad controller to a power driver’s seat to a dual panoramic roof, which included two power operated sliding covers. However, the front roof is functional, while the rear seat roof is fixed. In our review vehicle, the rear occupants also had access to heated seats and a center armrest.

The Eclipse Cross, which also offers great road manners, rides more like a midsize vehicle as opposed to a compact crossover. Mitsubishi’s compact crossover also incorporates the latest safety designs. Those safety aids range from electronic blind spot mirrors to a radar-activated cruise control system to a lane keep assist system to a 360-degree camera.

Furthermore, the optional 9-speaker Rockford Fosgate, 710-watt audio system, is one of the best radios we’ve heard in a vehicle in this price point. The system delivers a crystal-clear concert hall sound. In fact, the audio system could easily rival those we’ve experienced in BMWs, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz and Volvos, which offers more speakers.

The nicely equipped Eclipse Cross is priced to undercut its competitors, with a starting price just shy of $25,000. While it might be slightly more than compact crossovers, this Mitsubishi definitely undercuts similarly equipped midsize crossovers.  A well-equipped Eclipse Crossover tops off at around $33,000. This is well below the competition in which some cases tip into in to the $40,000 price range.

Lastly, Mitsubishi offers one of the best warranties in the industry.

But: The swanky design and the flashy color did not translate into the engine department. The turbo power vehicle is underpowered, lacking the punch that should complement the design and heritage of the Eclipse name. Mitsubishi should strongly consider adding a GT version, which could offer more horsepower to the vehicle.

Also, a front wheel drive configuration is only available on the base model. This configuration should be available on the other trims. Not every region of the country requires continuous all-wheel drive. Adding a front wheel drive version could lower the price point of the vehicle, making it a more eye-popping offer.

Moreover, the touchscreen audio system should add knobs to the screen, making it easier to locate stations and the like. Ford had a similar knobless touchscreen a few years ago and realized from a customer satisfaction standpoint it was better to reincorporate it back into their system.

Lastly, the horizontal rear bar, which connects two widows, could slightly impede the driver’s view. And, in order to improve the driver’s rear vision, the rear seat headrests should always be lowered, when not in use.

Verdict: Since joining the line-up, the Eclipse Cross has become the brand’s third best-selling vehicle. Its available in a variety of trims, at a price point that could easily undercut the competition by close to $10,000, depending upon if the vehicle is going head-to-head with the compact or midsize crossover segment.

Despite the standard turbo engine, for those not seeking a performance-oriented crossover that breaks speed records, the Eclipse Cross is worth placing on the shopping list!

Competition: Chevy Equinox; Ford Edge; Honda CR-V; Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue; and Toyota RAV-4

About Jeff Fortson and JeffCars.com: Jeff Fortson is the host of SiriusXM Channel 141 Auto Trends with JeffCars.com. The show airs on Fridays at 12 PM ET. It’s a weekly multicultural automotive show, which includes in-depth conversations with today’s influencers and pioneers. For additional air times, a new-vehicle pricing configurator, used car-buying tips and more, cruise over to JeffCars.com.