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.

Classic Rides and More: Roswell Motoring Festival Returns this Weekend

 

Plenty of classic cars will be on display when the fifth annual Roswell Motoring Festival returns Saturday, Oct. 12, with more than 150 vintage rides on display near city hall.

Event organizers are expecting more than 2,500 people at this year's event, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill St. There's free admission, and if you're a classic car owner who wants to display your ride you can register online and make a $30 charitable donation, or register on the day of the event for $35. 

Proceeds from the event benefit Roswell first responders and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Festival goers can vote for cars in two categories: People’s Choice, first place and runner up; and Ladies' Choice, first place and runner up.

Sam Mahdavi, host of the TV series Sam’s Garage and co-owner of Mahdavi Motorsports auto repair, is the grand marshal of this year's festival. 

Mahdavi supplied more than 10 performance vehicles for the “Fast & Furious” movie franchise, according to the motoring festival website. 

Artists' booths, a brewing company and a trio performing Rat Pack-era music will also be at the festival. 

For more information, visit atlmotoringfest.org.

2024 Nissan Sentra: New Look, Same Good Quality Small Sedan

 

With a refresh for the 2024 model year that includes a more efficient transmission and a new grille, the Nissan Sentra is a worthy competitor in the small sedan market. 

Pricing
The Sentra's full line pricing, including the $1,140 destination fee, is as follows:

• S: $22,730
• SV: $23,430
• SR: $25,730

Powertrain Specs and MPG
The Sentra has, under the hood, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 149 horsepower and 146 pounds-feet of torque. It is linked to a continuously variable automatic transmission, and all Sentras are front-wheel drive. The S and SV trims deliver an EPA-rated 30/40/34 mpg city/highway/combined; the SR is rated at 30/38/33 mpg.

Safety Features and Trim Levels
The Sentra offers Nissan Safety Shield 360, the suite of advanced driver-assist systems includes forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking. A rear-seat reminder also comes standard.

The base Sentra S sits on 16-inch steel wheels and is equipped with keyless entry and starting, cloth seats, four speakers and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SV adds adaptive cruise control, 16-inch aluminum wheels, upgraded cloth upholstery, six speakers and an 8-inch touchscreen with satellite radio.

The top trim level, the SR gets remote start and numerous styling tweaks for a sportier appearance, including a dark-chrome grille and black side mirrors, extended sill trim, a rear spoiler, 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and red badging. Its cabin features heated front seats, orange contrast stitching and dual-zone automatic climate control.

2024 Toyota Corolla: Legacy Continues with Fresh Updates

 

The Toyota Corolla has long been a staple in the automotive world, celebrated for its reliability, affordability and fuel efficiency. The 2024 Toyota Corolla continues this legacy while introducing some exciting updates. Whether you're a car enthusiast, a budget-conscious consumer or an urban commuter, the 2024 Corolla has something to offer.

Exterior Design

The 2024 Corolla boasts a sleek and modern design that blends sophistication with sportiness. With its sharp lines, bold front grille, and stylish LED headlights, this compact sedan turns heads without being overly flashy. The Corolla's aerodynamic profile not only adds to its visual appeal but also enhances fuel efficiency.

Interior Comfort

Step inside the 2024 Corolla, and you'll find a well-crafted interior that prioritizes comfort and convenience. The cabin is spacious enough to accommodate five passengers comfortably, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear occupants. High-quality materials and a minimalist dashboard layout create an inviting atmosphere.

The standard infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Higher trims offer additional features such as a premium JBL audio system, wireless charging and a moonroof. For budget-conscious consumers, the base model provides excellent value without compromising on essential tech features.

Performance & Efficiency

Under the hood, the 2024 Corolla offers two engine options. The base 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate power for daily commuting. For those seeking a bit more pep, the available 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, making highway driving and merging easier.

Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that ensures smooth and efficient power delivery. The Corolla's suspension is tuned for comfort, making it ideal for navigating city streets and handling the occasional road trip.

Fuel efficiency remains one of the Corolla's strongest suits. The base engine achieves an impressive EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, while the 2.0-liter engine offers 32 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. This makes the Corolla an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers looking to save on fuel costs.

Safety Features

Toyota has equipped the 2024 Corolla with a comprehensive suite of safety features, making it a standout in its class. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 package comes standard and includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Automatic High Beams
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Road Sign Assist

Additionally, the Corolla offers available features such as Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking. These advanced safety technologies provide peace of mind for urban commuters and families alike.

Continuing the Legacy

The 2024 Toyota Corolla is a well-rounded compact sedan that continues to uphold Toyota's reputation for reliability and affordability. Its modern design, comfortable interior, efficient performance and advanced safety features make it a compelling choice for car enthusiasts, budget-conscious consumers, and urban commuters.

If you're in the market for a new car that offers great value without compromising on quality, the 2024 Corolla should be at the top of your list. Visit your local Toyota dealership today and take the 2024 Corolla for a test drive—you won't be disappointed.

The Government Funding Program You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

 

In early August, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced the distribution of $325 million to increase access to the outdoors as part of the Biden-Harris administration’s America the Beautiful initiative. The initiative is intended to “restore, connect, and conserve” land, water and wildlife through locally led community projects. The funding will be going to all 50 states, U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia from the Land and Water Conservation Fund Stateside Assistance Program. Here’s what to know about the program.

What is the LWCF? The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) was established in 1964 to “safeguard our natural areas, water resources, and cultural heritage, and to provide recreation opportunities to all Americans.” What is most interesting about this fund is that it uses “zero taxpayer dollars” and is funded by “earnings from offshore oil and gas leasing.”  The Fund was permanently reauthorized in 2019 and the Great American Outdoors Act of 2020 ensured the program would be permanently funded for future generations.

What it funds The fund has two general purposes: to support the purchase of federal land “for the benefit of the public” and to provide grants to individual states for local preservation and recreation projects. The National Park Service administers funding for the state program that offers competitive grants to plan, develop or acquire land, water or facilities for outdoor recreation. The program will give up to 50% of a proposed project’s total cost, so long as the rest of the funding does not come from other federal funds. For example, if a city wanted to build a baseball field for public use, it could apply to have half of the funding come from the LWCF and the rest from city funds or a private donor. These grants have been used to develop and improve public parks, build trailheads, protect historical and cultural sites, assist in natural conservation efforts, and implement green spaces in urban areas. To ensure the long-term impact of the funded areas, the program requires that all “grant-assisted areas are to remain forever available for "public outdoor recreation use," or be replaced by lands of equal market value and recreation usefulness.”

Make it local The LWCF has funded more than 46,000 projects since 1965 with at least one project in every county in the U.S. This means that there is a project in your community that exists because of this fund. Check out this map to find a project near you. You can also speak to your local government about what projects are currently being proposed in your area. - REYNOLDS CENTER