Friday, September 18, 2020

2020 Lexus GX 460: Not too Fancy to Help You Get a Little Work Done

 



When it comes to mid-size and large SUVs, it's easy to think of them as either stylish or utilitarian. But with the 2020 Lexus GX 460, you get an ample amount of both qualities. 

This mid-size luxury vehicle offers seating for up to seven passengers across three rows. Under the hood, there is a 4.6-liter V-8 engine that makes 301 horsepower and is linked to a six-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. 

The GX has a maximum cargo capacity of 64.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

It comes in two trim levels: Base and Luxury.

The GX offers a smooth ride and a pleasant interior setting that is luxurious without being pretentious. Which basically means that you won't feel like you're insulting it if you need to head to your local home improvement store and throw a few bags of mulch and some landscape timbers inside. 

The ride is steady and the ample power of the V-8 engine makes itself easily available when needed, such as accelerating onto a busy freeway.

Braking is smooth and assured, and handling is fairly precise. 

As is the case with many three-row vehicles, seating in the third row offers very limited space. But otherwise, driver and passengers can expect to ride in comfort. 

Fuel economy is rated at 15 mpg city, 19 highway. 

Pricing of the GX starts at around $55,000 and ranges to about $66,000.

If you're looking for a refined luxury SUV that isn't to snooty to get a little dirty, the Lexus GX 460 is a terrific choice. 

Monday, September 14, 2020

Georgia's Clean Air Force: 8 Tips for Buying a Used Vehicle


 

According to a 2020 car and transportation report from Statista, Americans bought 40.8 million pre-owned vehicles in 2019. With more than seven million motorists on the road in Georgia, knowing the steps to buy the right pre-owned vehicle can lead to a longer car life and cleaner air for all.

Georgia’s Clean Air Force, in partnership with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), offers eight important tips to help motorists expertly choose a pre-owned car or truck.

“Before buying a pre-owned vehicle, consumers must conduct adequate research to make sure their time and money is well-spent,” said Michael Odom, Mobile & Area Sources Program Manager, Georgia EPD. “You can never be too careful when buying a previously owned car, and knowing what to look for will ensure you’re making a worthwhile investment.”

  • Set Guidelines. Before purchasing a pre-owned automobile, create a list of your specific needs, familiarize yourself with vehicles you’re interested in and establish a budget.
  • Get a Free Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR). Georgia’s Clean Air Force’s website provides a summary of the most recent vehicle inspection reports to inform motorists of the vehicle’s latest valid, passing emissions inspection: www.cleanairforce.com/motorists/vir-reprints/.
  • Request a Carfax Report. Carfax reports provide the vehicle’s history, including whether the car has been involved in an accident or a range of other negative events.
  • Research the Dealer. Before buying a pre-owned vehicle, make sure you know who you are purchasing from. By researching dealers, you can eliminate untrustworthy sellers or those with negative comments.
  • Make Contact and Schedule a Test Drive. Calling the seller is a great way to verify the car’s information and schedule a test drive. A test drive can tell you if the car is the right make and model for you and provides further insight into its condition.
  • Obtain a Pre-Purchase Inspection. Hire a trusted professional to perform a pre-purchase inspection.
  • Complete an On-Board Diagnostic Test. An on-board diagnostic test determines what kind of repairs need to be performed on the vehicle. The test scans for codes that are linked to specific damage services and any preventative maintenance services.
  • Factor in Location. Metro Atlanta has a 13-county emissions testing area that requires a passing test every year. Anyone residing outside of metro Atlanta’s 13-county emissions testing area are not required to provide a passing test at the time of sale, as 13-county sellers are required to.