2024 Audi Q7: Luxury and Performance Meet in this SUV

 

The 2024 Audi Q7 combines modern luxury with outstanding performance, creating a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a premium SUV. With its advanced technology, powerful engine options and refined interior, the Q7 continues to uphold Audi's reputation for excellence. Here's a deep dive into what it offers.

Exterior Design

The 2024 Audi Q7 maintains its bold, elegant stance with subtle updates to its exterior. The muscular front grille, LED headlights, and clean lines give it a commanding presence on the road. Optional 21-inch wheels and a sleek body profile enhance its sporty yet sophisticated look. It's the kind of design that turns heads without shouting for attention.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the Q7, and you're welcomed by a premium cabin that perfectly balances luxury and practicality. High-quality materials like leather upholstery, wood accents and aluminum trim give it a polished feel. The three-row seating offers generous space for passengers, with the second-row seating providing exceptional comfort during longer drives. The third row, though not as spacious, is suitable for children or shorter journeys.

Technology and Features

Audi doesn’t hold back when it comes to technology, and the Q7 is no exception. The latest MMI infotainment system features a dual touchscreen layout (10.1 inches and 8.6 inches), offering crisp graphics, intuitive navigation and seamless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Virtual Cockpit enhances the driving experience with its fully customizable 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Available features like the Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, ambient lighting and a wireless charging pad add to the luxurious experience.

Advanced safety tech is well-represented too, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system ensuring confidence on every drive.

Performance

The 2024 Audi Q7 offers two powerful engine options:

• 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (45 TFSI)

This entry-level engine delivers 261 horsepower, ideal for city driving and light highway cruising. It's efficient, but performance enthusiasts may find it underwhelming for spirited driving.

• 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged (55 TFSI)

Generating 335 horsepower, the V6 is the star of the lineup. Its mild-hybrid system ensures smooth acceleration and adds a touch of efficiency. Paired with Audi's legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system and an 8-speed automatic transmission, the V6 offers effortless power delivery and nimble handling, whether you're navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain.

Optional air suspension and all-wheel steering improve the ride quality and maneuverability, making the Q7 as smooth as it is agile.

Cargo and Practicality

With the third row up, the Q7 offers a modest 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the third row, and it expands to 35.7 cubic feet. With both rear rows down, you’ll have a generous 69.6 cubic feet of storage, making it perfect for road trips, grocery runs or weekend adventures. While it’s not the most spacious in its class, it strikes a nice balance for families.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel economy is reasonable for this segment, but it’s not the Q7’s strongest suit:

• The 45 TFSI engine achieves around 20 mpg city / 25 mpg highway.
• The 55 TFSI V6 delivers about 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway.

These figures are on par with competitors but may not appeal to eco-conscious buyers seeking higher efficiency.

Price and Trim Levels

The 2024 Audi Q7 is available in three trims:

1. Premium – Starting at approximately $61,000, this base trim is generously equipped with luxury essentials like leather upholstery and the MMI infotainment system.
2. Premium Plus – Starting around $66,000, it adds features like the Virtual Cockpit, upgraded safety tech, and premium audio.
3. Prestige – Starting at $74,000, this trim is for buyers who want it all, offering air suspension, HD Matrix LED headlights, and all-wheel steering.

With optional packages and add-ons, the price can climb, so it's worth considering which extras align best with your budget.

Final Thoughts

The 2024 Audi Q7 is a well-rounded luxury SUV that excels in comfort, technology, and performance. While its third-row seating and cargo space may not be the best in class, its refined driving experience, luxurious interior, and cutting-edge features more than make up for it.

Whether you're commuting, running errands, or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Q7 delivers a driving experience that's effortlessly enjoyable. If you’re in the market for a stylish, high-performing luxury SUV, the Audi Q7 should be high on your list to test drive.

South Becoming the 'Battery Belt' as Demand Continues to Rise

 

The Battery Belt We’ve talked about electric vehicles before, and one key component every electric vehicle needs is a battery. As electric vehicle manufacturing picks up, the demand for batteries naturally increases as well. So let’s talk about the ‘Battery Belt.’

What is the Battery Belt? Over the past few years, several multibillion-dollar battery-making factories have begun construction or operation in the Southeast U.S. in states such as Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky and the Carolinas. Similar to how the north and Midwest regions that once dominated the manufacturing industry were referred to as the Steel Belt – now the Rust Belt after a dramatic decline in industrialization during the 1960s and 1970s – this Southeast region has been dubbed the ‘Battery Belt’ of the United States.  The Southeast states have seen a decline in textile and furniture manufacturing for decades and these new battery plants have been ‘reinvigorating’ the local economy with what many believe are better jobs.

Why the Southeast? Although battery plants are being proposed in many regions of the U.S. – including Rust Belt states such as Michigan, Ohio and Indiana – the vast majority are in the Southeast region. For example, between 2021 and 2022 alone, 15 new lithium-ion battery factories or expansions were announced in this area, representing a potential $40 billion investment. So why this region? To begin, lithium-ion batteries are subject to very strict safety regulations, and transporting them far is expensive. Therefore, many of these factories are being proposed and built near current electric vehicle manufacturing hubs. This is also why the Battery Belt is expanding all the way up to Michigan as GM and Ford invest in electric vehicles. Companies are attracted to the Southeast, in large part due to the abundance of land and local tax incentives. For example, a gigafactory in North Carolina has received $3.2 million in incentive grants from the state after pledging certain salary levels for future employees.  There may also be other reasons that make these states attractive to companies. As one advocate group told The Tennessean, “When you look at who’s doing the investment, it’s typically non-union companies moving into states with legacies of worker exploitation, low pay and less than good jobs.” With fewer unions in the South, factories are able to have more flexibility in the workers they hire. However, this has not stopped workers from fighting for unionization in these regions.

Other things to know As more factories open to produce batteries, more jobs will be needed. To get ahead of that demand, the Department of Energy launched a Battery Workforce Initiative to train the next generation of workers in this industry. This initiative aims to identify the core skills needed and ensure programs nationwide are teaching those skills. Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law in August 2022, which contains $369 billion in investments to boost clean energy – lithium-ion battery manufacturing falls into that category. Those tax breaks and loans are projected to drive a manufacturing renaissance that supports every stage of the electric vehicle industry. One of those stages is battery recycling, which is a sector of the industry that is also growing. - REYNOLDS CENTER

2024 Mazda3: Small and Mighty Sedan is Impressive

 

The 2024 Mazda3 continues to impress with its combination of style, performance and attention to detail, making it a standout in the compact car segment. Whether you’re considering the sedan or hatchback version, Mazda has crafted a vehicle that caters to drivers who value a dynamic driving experience as much as they do modern design and technology.

Design and Interior

Mazda's Kodo design philosophy makes the 2024 Mazda3 one of the most visually compelling cars in its class. With its flowing lines and sculpted surfaces, the Mazda3 exudes a sense of movement, even when stationary. The interior is just as impressive, offering a minimalist yet upscale environment. High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin, and the layout is driver-focused, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The seats are supportive and comfortable, perfect for long commutes or road trips. The hatchback version provides slightly more cargo space, making it a practical choice for those needing extra room.

Performance

Under the hood, the 2024 Mazda3 offers several engine options to fit various driving preferences. The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers adequate power for everyday driving, while the more potent 2.5-liter turbocharged engine is available for those seeking a more spirited performance. Both engines are mated to a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, though a manual option is tantalizingly available for true driving enthusiasts.

The Mazda3’s handling is exceptional, with its precise steering and well-tuned suspension providing a sporty feel without compromising comfort. It's a car that feels agile on city streets and confident on the highway.

Technology and Features

Mazda has equipped the 2024 Mazda3 with a good range of technology and features, ensuring drivers and passengers stay connected and safe. A user-friendly infotainment system is standard, featuring an 8.8-inch display controlled via a rotary knob. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone.

Safety is also a priority, with advanced driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking available across most trim levels.

Fuel Efficiency

The Mazda3 remains competitive in terms of fuel efficiency, with the base engine offering impressive mileage for daily commutes. The turbocharged variant, while offering more power, does see a slight decrease in efficiency but remains an acceptable trade-off for those who prioritize performance.

Conclusion

The 2024 Mazda3 is a car that doesn’t just satisfy; it excites. With its blend of style, agility, and thoughtful features, it stands as a testament to Mazda’s commitment to delivering vehicles that are both beautiful and functional. Whether you're a city dweller or a road tripper, the Mazda3 offers something for everyone, all while maintaining an attractive price point. For those in search of a compact car that feels anything but ordinary, the 2024 Mazda3 is certainly worth considering.

Give to the Food Drive at Perimeter Mall

 

The Community Assistance Center in Dunwoody, Ga., has a program to fight food insecurity in our community with an easy drop-off at Perimeter Mall. Give as you shop by bringing nonperishable foods (pasta, canned meat, tomatoes, beans, and rice are always in high demand) to the CAC donation bin in the mall’s food court. Another easy way: View the wish list and order online: http://givenow.ourcac.org. 

CAC has distributed more than 750,000 pounds of food this year through its three local food pantries, helping families keep food on the table as they overcome financial crisis.

Veterans Day Car Show this Weekend

The Dunwoody Veterans of Foreign Wars 10822 will host the Veterans Day car show on Saturday, Nov. 16, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Dunwoody Village Regency Center parking lot by the Dunwoody Post Office. It's open to all years, makes and models with an entry free of $25 (show cars). Spectators have free admission, can vote for their favorite vehicles, and speak with Veterans. A World War I ambulance will be there among other military, police and fire vehicles. Normandy, the big, friendly, 140 lb warrior dog and 115 lb girlfriend (Great Pyrenees) will be to there to meet & greet.

 

The event will benefit the charities supported by the non-profit organization. Members of the Dunwoody police, firefighters and chapters of the Civil Air Patrol & Scouts will assist at the event.

Teen Driver Safety Week Highlights Training for Young Motorists

 

With National Teen Driver Safety Week kicking off Oct. 20, it is important to share that young drivers and their parents have safe-driving education and training options such as the Tire Rack Street Survival, a non-profit organization operated by the BMW Car Club of America and supported by long-time sponsor Tire Rack, the nation’s largest online tire retailer and tire testing and information source.   Tire Rack Street Survival organizes and schedules programs in many communities nationwide, offering on its website a continually updated schedule of program locations. All programs are staffed by volunteer expert driving coaches from the BMW club, the BMW Clubs Canada, the Sports Car Club of America and the Porsche Club of America. Each program teaches teens both simple and complex driving skills such as accident avoidance, emergency braking, skid control and how to control unintended oversteer and understeer. Lessons taught in the classroom are reinforced by putting students behind the wheel of their own cars in a controlled environment with a trained, in-car driving coach by their side.   “We keep our students busy during the full-day program, and we make it our mission to teach the skills they need to help safely manage daily driving and emergency situations,” said Bill Wade, Tire Rack Street Survival national program director. “For 21 years we – with Tire Rack’s generous support – have worked hard to host programs across the country.”

Discover the Heart of the South in Tupelo, Miss.

 

Tupelo, Miss., may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a southern getaway, but this charming city has a lot to offer for travelers seeking rich history, cultural depth and a slice of genuine American life. Known as the birthplace of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley, Tupelo is a city where history sings and landscapes invite exploration. Whether you're a music aficionado, a history buff, or simply looking to enjoy some southern hospitality, Tupelo has something for everyone.

A Step Back in Time at the Elvis Presley Birthplace

No visit to Tupelo would be complete without a stop at the Elvis Presley Birthplace. This humble two-room house is where the legend himself was born on Jan. 8, 1935. The site includes a museum and the Elvis Presley Memorial Chapel, offering insights into the early life of Elvis and the influences that shaped his future career. Stroll through the tranquil surroundings and imagine the beginnings of a star who would forever change the music industry.

Explore the Vibrant Downtown

Downtown Tupelo is a blend of historic charm and modern flair. With its quaint shops, vibrant street art and lively eateries, it's the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Don't miss the Tupelo Hardware Store, famously remembered as the place where Elvis's mother bought him his first guitar. Enjoy southern culinary delights at local favorites like Kermit's Outlaw Kitchen or Fairpark Grill, where fresh ingredients and innovative flavors take center stage.

Connect with Nature at the Natchez Trace Parkway

Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic beauty of the Natchez Trace Parkway, a short drive from Tupelo. This 444-mile scenic road follows an ancient path used by Native Americans and early settlers. The Parkway offers multiple hiking and biking trails, each providing breathtaking views of the Mississippi landscape. It's an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely drive, particularly during the fall when the foliage is at its most spectacular.

Engage with Local History at the Tupelo National Battlefield

For history enthusiasts, the Tupelo National Battlefield is a significant Civil War site where Union and Confederate forces clashed in July 1864. Managed by the National Park Service, the site offers interpretive signs detailing the battle's importance and impact. It's a sobering yet insightful experience that adds depth to your visit to Tupelo.

Experience the Cultural Pulse at the GumTree Festival

If your visit coincides with the spring season, make sure to attend the annual GumTree Festival. This event celebrates regional art and culture, featuring works from hundreds of artists across the southeast. With live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages, the festival is a vibrant addition to Tupelo's cultural calendar and a great way to experience the local community spirit.

Charm and Hospitality

Tupelo is more than just the birthplace of Elvis; it's a city that captures the essence of southern charm and hospitality. With its blend of history, culture and natural beauty, Tupelo offers visitors a unique and enriching travel experience. Whether you're tracing the footsteps of a legendary musician, exploring the great outdoors or savoring local cuisine, Tupelo invites you to discover its story. Plan your visit today and see why this hidden gem in Mississippi is worth every mile.