Value, Comfort, Safety Define 2023 Hyundai Palisade

10-25-22 Tech Talk

~ Recorded Live from KOWS FM 92.5 ~

When it come to value, Tech Talk host Rick DeMeis lauds the 2023 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy AWD model for its abundance of premium refinements and notable safety achievements that bely a sticker price that’s modest for its segment of the market. Praiseworthy, too, was the ability to garner 27+ mpg on the highway while test driving this large SUV – 3.8-liter V8 notwithstanding. Listen up for the full report.

Also, there’s informative automotive news on tap including briefs about Tesla facing stiff competition in China, and Ford bringing new electrified versions of the Escape to market… and more.

Rick's Tech Talk A weekly feature on KOWS 92.5 FM radio Newtopian Dream program hosted by RT Newt.

Enjoy listening to your favorite episodes while you drive.
Tune in to Tech Talk on Stitcher.
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2023 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy AWD

photo illustration by Rich Taber

New Enhancements & Available Features

Exterior

  • New front and rear bumper fascia
  • New front grille
  • New headlamps and daytime running lights
  • New multi-spoke alloy wheel design
  • Auto-dimming outside mirrors


Interior

  • New instrument panel, gauge cluster and audio interface design
  • New steering wheel design
  • New seating surfaces and materials
  • Ergo-motion driver’s seat
  • 2nd-row armrest angle adjuster (8 passenger, first for Hyundai)
  • Heated 3rd row seats (first application for Hyundai)
  • Acoustic-laminated rear door glass (Calligraphy model)


Infotainment / Convenience Technology

  • 12-inch navigation with 720p resolution
  • Digital, full-display center rearview mirror (first application for Hyundai)
  • WiFi hotspot (first application for Hyundai)
  • Digital Key 2 Touch (compatible with iPhone and Android)
  • New Bluelink features (see Bluelink detail)
  • Enhanced USB-C ports replace USB-A ports (quicker charging up to 3 amps)
  • Enhanced wireless device charging (from 5W to 15W)
  • Enhanced dynamic voice recognition


Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control
  • Highway Driving Assist
  • Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Remote Smart Parking Assist


Passive Safety Technology

  • Standard rear side-impact airbags

“The enhanced 2023 Hyundai Palisade offers the design appeal and features worthy of Hyundai’s flagship SUV. More than ever, Palisade is the ultimate family vehicle for daily use and memory-making road trips.” ~ Olabisi Boyle, vice president, product planning and mobility strategy, Hyundai Motor North America


Listen to KOWS 92.5 FM Newtopian Dream
Every Tuesday at 1:30pm ET


Automotive News:

Tesla Drops Prices in China

2023 Ford Escape Highlights Hybrids

ISEECARS.com Study on Vehicle Affordability

As an Amazon Affiliate RPM News Weekly Earns from Qualifying Purchases

More Tech News:

Greenpeace Reports on Low Levels of Plastic Recycling


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Interview with Jim Edwards, Product Mgr., Mercedes-Benz EQ Vehicles

Mustang Mach-E Quietly Evokes Its Forbears

10-04-22 Tech Talk

~ Recorded Live from KOWS FM 92.5 ~

Although Tech Talk host Rick DeMeis found blessed quietude in the all-electric Mustang Mach-E by turning off the fake performance sounds, he also discovered that he would rather not experience the one-pedal driving capability. Why? Find out in the full report.

Want more? There’s also plenty of other informative automotive news briefs including a survey of the safest and most reliable pre-owned cars for teenagers. And, then there’s the bit about a California baker trying to recreate the New York bagel. Can it be done? Listen up.

Rick's Tech Talk A weekly feature on KOWS 92.5 FM radio Newtopian Dream program hosted by RT Newt.

Enjoy listening to your favorite episodes while you drive.
Tune in to Tech Talk on Stitcher.
https://app.stitcher.com/browse/feed/549366/episodes


Mustang Mach-E Premium All-Electric AWD

MECHANICAL

  • 88kWh Usable High Capacity Battery
  • Single-Speed Transmission

EXTERIOR

  • Acoustic Laminate Glass – Front-Row Side Windows
  • Black Painted — Front/Rear Door Cladding — Front/Rear Wheel lip Moldings
  • Front Fascia – Body-Color Upper / Black-Painted Lower w/ Front Body Color Insert
  • Front Grille Applique Insert, Black Painted
  • Panoramic Fixed-Glass Roof w/ Infrared Reflective (IRR) Windshield
  • Tires – 225/55R19 All-Season (A/S) BSW
  • Wheels – 19″ Machined-Face Aluminum w/ High Gloss Black-Painted Pockets

INTERIOR / COMFORT

  • Ambient Lighting – Multi-Color
  • Front Door Scuff Plates – Aluminum Inserts w/ Pony Graphic & Unique Lettering
  • Seats — Perforated ActiveX™ Seating Material — 8-Way Power Passenger Fore/Aft, Up/Down, Power Lumbar, Power Recline) FORD CO-PILOT360™

TECHNOLOGY

  • Ford Co-Pilot360™ Active 2.01 — BlueCruise (hands-free driving)2 — Active Park Assist 2.0
  • 360-Degree Camera w/ Split View & Front Washer

SAFETY / SECURITY

  • Headlamps – LED Projector w/ LED Signature Lighting
  • Head Restraints – Four-Way Manually Adjustable Driver & Front-Passenger
  • Mirrors, Sideview – Power-Folding w/ Power & Heated Glass, LED Turn Signal Indicators, Pony Projection Lamp & Black Painted Caps

FUNCTIONAL

  • Audio — B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®, 10 Speakers incl. Subwoofer PACKAGES
  • Comfort Package — Cargo Area Cover — Hands-Free, Foot-Activated Liftgate (includes Power Liftgate functionality) — Heated Front Row Seats — Heated Steering Wheel — Memory – Driver’s Seat & Sideview Power-Folding Mirrors

“Adding Ford Co-Pilot360 Driver Assist Technology to the entire Mustang Mach-E lineup gives more customers access to services like BlueCruise hands-free driving and future ADAS services through Ford Power-Up software updates. We’re sharing these changes ahead of re-opening order banks on Tuesday (Aug. 30, 2022) so customers can understand the feature and pricing adjustments around ordering a Mustang Mach-E.” ~ Marin Gjaja, chief customer officer, Model e


Listen to KOWS 92.5 FM Newtopian Dream
Every Tuesday at 1:30pm ET


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Best Pre-Owned Cars For Teens

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As an Amazon Affiliate RPM News Weekly Earns from Qualifying Purchases

More Tech News:

Asteroid Impact Leaves 6000-mile Trail

California vs. New York Bagel


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Understated Luxury Evident In Volvo XC60 Recharge PHEV

8-09-22 Tech Talk

~ Recorded Live from KOWS FM 92.5 ~

Tech Talk host Rick DeMeis makes no apologies for the Volvo XC60 Recharge PHEV easily giving away its Swedish upbringing. Sure it’s got lots of power – 400 horsepower for that matter, and it’s mighty efficient all things considered. But then there’s that Swedish penchant for doing things in moderation that imparts a uniquely understated character to this luxury vehicle that’s more than charming – something more assured and calming than brash and ostentatious.

The conversation then shifts to the recent New England Motor Press Association Winter Vehicle Awards ceremony. Yes, it’s summer – what better time to begin considering how you’ll be getting around when temperatures drop and the snow begins to fly.

Listen in for reports on the history of the ice cream truck and lots more.

Rick's Tech Talk A weekly feature on KOWS 92.5 FM radio Newtopian Dream program hosted by RT Newt.

Enjoy listening to your favorite episodes while you drive.
Tune in to Tech Talk on Stitcher.
https://app.stitcher.com/browse/feed/549366/episodes


2022 Volvo XC60 Recharge PHEV AWD

Photos Courtesy of Volvo USA Media

As Driven:

  • 2.0L Plug-In Hybrid Twincharged I4
  • 400 hp; 472 ft. lbs. of Torque
  • Start/Stop Technology
  • All-Wheel Drive 
  • 8-speed Automatic Transmission
  • 20” 5-Multi-Spoke Black Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels
  • Laminated Panoramic Moonroof w/ Power Sunshade
  • Hill Start Assist
  • Hill Descent Control
  • Bright Aluminum Roof rails
  • High-Gloss Black Front grille w/ Chrome Frame
  • Wiper Blades w/ Integrated Washers
  • Keyless Entry
  • Heated & Ventilated Front Seats
  • Nappa Leather Upholstery
  • Power Driver & Passenger Seats w/ Memory
  • Power Driver Cushion Extension
  • 12-inch Instrument Panel
  • Graphical Head-Up Display
  • 9-inch Center Display
  • Harman Kardon Premium Sound
  • Apple CarPlay & Google Built-In
  • 360° Camera
  • Crystal Gear Selector Knob
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • BLIS™ and Cross Traffic Alert
  • Lane Keeping Aid
  • Road Sign Information
  • Parking Assistance
  • Tinted Rear Windows
  • Power Tailgate

“The entire 2023 lineup of Volvo cars in the U.S. will consist of mild hybrid, hybrid or electric vehicles equipped with Google built-in. As part of the Google ecosystem, Volvo cars now offer a seamless transition between digital life at home and on the phone, bringing customers’ digital lives, and much greater personalization, directly into their cars. ~ Volvo USA Media


Listen to KOWS 92.5 FM Newtopian Dream
Every Tuesday at 1:30pm ET


Automotive News:

NEMPA Announces Winter Vehicle Awards

History of the Ice Cream Truck Rekindles Memories

More Tech News:

Washington University Develops Sugar-Cube Derived Electrode


Subscribe to the RPM News Weekly YouTube Channel


Lexus NX 350 F Sport AWD Appeals To The Passions

7-19-22 Tech Talk

~ Recorded Live from KOWS FM 92.5 ~

Described by Tech Talk host Rick DeMeis as “a slick ride,” the 2022 Lexus NX 350 F Sport Handling AWD certainly has no trouble drawing ones attention. If the brilliant Redline finish in the tested vehicle doesn’t appeal to ones passions, then the full-on sport designed interior easily will dismiss any quibbles. Of course, having 365 horsepower that can launch the SUV from zero to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds will tug the heart strings, too.

Rick's Tech Talk A weekly feature on KOWS 92.5 FM radio Newtopian Dream program hosted by RT Newt.

Enjoy listening to your favorite episodes while you drive.
Tune in to Tech Talk on Stitcher.
https://app.stitcher.com/browse/feed/549366/episodes


2022 Lexus NX 350 F Sport Handling AWD

Photos Courtesy of Lexus Media

As Driven:

  • 2.4-liter Turbocharged In-Line 4-Cylinder Engine
  • 275 hp @ 6,000 rpm; 317 lb-ft @ 1,700-3,600 rpm
  • All-Wheel Drive 
  • 8-speed Multi-Mode Automatic Transmission
  • F SPORT–tuned suspension
  • Front: Independent MacPherson struts w/ Coil Springs
  • Rear: Independent Double-Wishbone-Type w/ Coil Springs
  • Solenoid-Actuated Shock Absorbers
  • Stabilizer Bar
  • Performance Damper
  • F SPORT Gloss Black Exterior Highlights
  • 20-in Split-5-spoke Alloy Wheels w. Gloss Black Finish
  • Heated Wiper / Window Defroster
  • Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers
  • Power Tilt-and-Telescopic Steering Column
  • Paddle Shifters
  • 14-in Multimedia Touchscreen
  • F SPORT Aluminum Pedals
  • Heated Front Seats
  • Head-Up Display
  • 17-Speaker Premium Audio System
  • Base MSRP: $46,650; As Driven: $55,325 incl. Taxes & Delivery

“The all-new Lexus NX sets a new standard in the luxury crossover market with class-leading innovations in electrified powertrains, infotainment, driving dynamics, styling and safety.. The 2022 NX includes the most technological vehicle changes since we launched Lexus 32 years ago. With the all-new Lexus Interface multimedia system and a variety of customizable features, NX is an exciting first step in a series of 20 all-new or updated Lexus vehicles by 2025.” ~ Vinay Shahani, Lexus vice president of marketing


Listen to KOWS 92.5 FM Newtopian Dream
Every Tuesday at 1:30pm ET

Automotive News:

iSeeCars Sales Results For New & Used Cars In June

Walmart Plans To Buy Electric Delivery Vehicles

Mary Barra – GM To Take On Tesla

More Tech News:

James Webb Telescope Images Jupiter


Subscribe to the RPM News Weekly YouTube Channel

Premium Experience Validates BMW 230i Coupe Curb Appeal

5-03-22 Tech Talk

~ Recorded Live from KOWS FM 92.5 ~

Good looks are more than skin deep in the 2022 BMW 230i Coupe alludes Tech Talk host Rick DeMeis in his assessment of the automaker’s entry-level 2 Series model. Whether it’s the 255 horsepower, the 35 mpg highway rating or the premium interior niceties that commanded his attention or not, this is one vehicle he did not walk away from willingly after a weeklong test drive. Listen up for all the details as well as a handful of informative tech news items that always round out the weekly segment.

Rick's Tech Talk A weekly feature on KOWS 92.5 FM radio Newtopian Dream program hosted by RT Newt.

Enjoy listening to your favorite episodes while you drive.
Tune in to Tech Talk on Stitcher.
https://app.stitcher.com/browse/feed/549366/episodes


2022 BMW 230i Coupe w/ M Sport Package

Photos Courtesy BMW Media

As Driven:

  • 2.0-liter 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo Engine
  • 255 hp @ 5,000 – 6,500 rpm; 295 lb-ft. of torque @ 1,550 – 4,400 rpm
  • Rear-Wheel Drive 
  • 8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission
  • Sport Leather Steering Wheel
  • Park Distance Control
  • Auto-Dimming Interior & Exterior Mirrors
  • Power Front Sport Seats
  • 40/20/40 Split Folding Rear Seat
  • 3-zone Automatic Climate Control
  • Dynamic Cruise Control
  • Navigation
  • Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Compatibility
  • Active Driving Assistant
  • Active Blind Spot Detection
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Frontal Collision Warning w/ Braking & Pedestrian Detection
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Speed Limit Information

“The BMW 2 Series Coupe’s striking and athletic new exterior design is the first thing that everyone will notice. Three-dimensional surfaces, triangular forms and diagonal lines bring visual power to the front end. The low front bumper, headlights positioned to the outer edges of the front end and the new, turbine-style BMW kidney grille give the car a wide, low-slung look. ” ~ BMW Media


Listen to KOWS 92.5 FM Newtopian Dream
Every Tuesday at 1:30pm ET

Automotive News:

Toyota Announces bZ4X All-Electric SUV with 250-mile Range

More Tech News:

Boeing Unveils First Production T-7A

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F-14 Tomcat Celebrates 50th Anniversary Of First Flight


Subscribe to the RPM News Weekly YouTube Channel

Ford Aims To Tame Wilderness With Bronco Sasquatch

4-19-22 Tech Talk

~ Recorded Live from KOWS FM 92.5 ~

While he didn’t uncover any truths to the legend of Bigfoot while spending a week driving around in the reimagined Bronco 4×4 with the optional Sasquatch Package, Tech Talk host Rick DeMeis did discover that Ford has created a fitting challenge to mainstream deep off-road competitors. Not only does this utility vehicle look the part with its front steel bash plates and black roof rails with crossbars, but it delivers the goods with its high-clearance suspension, position sensitive Bilstein shock absorbers and front and rear locking differentials. Have a listen for all the details.
There’s more, too. This week Tech Talk offers up a digestible serving of worldwide technology tidbits that includes news from a Massachusetts startup of a carbon neutral tilt-rotor aircraft; information from NASA about a new alloy that’s designed to function at very high temperatures; research at UMichigan using ultrasound to destroy cancerous tumors; and a brief discussion on an Iron Beam high-power laser that can zap incoming missiles. Don’t worry, you won’t need a Flak suit for this one.

Rick's Tech Talk A weekly feature on KOWS 92.5 FM radio Newtopian Dream program hosted by RT Newt.

Enjoy listening to your favorite episodes while you drive.
Tune in to Tech Talk on Stitcher.
https://app.stitcher.com/browse/feed/549366/episodes


Ford Bronco Base 2-Door Advanced 4×4 Sasquatch

RPM News Weekly Photos by Rich Taber

As Driven:

  • 2.3L EcoBoost Inline 4-cylinder Engine
  • 275 Horsepower; 300 Horsepower w/ Premium Gasoline
  • 10-speed Automatic Transmission
  • 4×4 w/ Locking Front & Rear Differentials
  • 35-inch Tires
  • 18 City / 18 Highway / 18 Combined MPG
  • Auto Start Stop
  • 6-speaker Stereo

“Checking the Sasquatch box adds class-first 35-inch Goodyear® mud-terrain tires mounted to 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, Dana™ front and rear electronic locking axles with 4.7:1 final drive ratio, and high-clearance suspension with a nearly two-inch wider track, wider fender flares. The package also adds HOSS-tuned, long-travel Bilstein® position-sensitive dampers with end-stop control valves with increased ride height to help improve ground clearance.” ~ Ford Media


Automotive News:

EVs Jump Start New York Auto Show

More Tech News:

Transcend Air To Deploy Tilt Rotor Commuter Aircraft  

New Alloy Developed By NASA  

University of Michigan Research Finds Ultrasound Destroys Tumors  

Israel Demonstrates Iron Beam Laser Defense System


Subscribe to the RPM News Weekly YouTube Channel