A couple of notable anniversaries have come and gone quietly this past season, the first marking 10 years that I have been here at Gear Diary. The second commemorates the 20 years I have been involved in automotive journalism, and what a “ride” it has been.
Toyota parked its national headquarters in our backyard a couple of years ago, and in recent weeks they have parked some new vehicles in our test driveway out front. We have written about a few Lexus products already, and now it is Toyota’s turn beginning with the new, distinctively different C-HR.
Honey, I shrunk the projector. That’s the first thing that came to mind when I opened the box of the new Apeman M4 digital mini projector. It occupies the same real estate as that of a drink coaster, and at less than an inch tall it can even fit right in your pocket.
Recently we tested the QX60 midsize luxury crossover utility vehicle from Infiniti, again, and we really appreciated the accommodation and quality, again. Over the past five years, I think this is the fourth model to grace our test driveway. So, what’s new?
Recently we enjoyed the new Surf waterproof Bluetooth speaker from ION Audio, but for those times when we want to enjoy the patio or entertain friends or family, the pool may not be an option. Introducing the Tiki Sounds Outdoor Illuminated Speaker system.
This is the most incredible experience I have had in my 20 years reviewing new vehicles…and that is just the audio system. The stereo is the new Mark Levinson 3D sound system complete with 24 speakers and 2,400 watts of power, and the car is the 2018 Lexus LS 500h luxury hybrid sedan.
Do you love espresso or know someone who does and you wish you could have it anywhere, anytime? Look no further than the CISNO Portable Espresso Machine. This new gadget allows you to make espresso anywhere, whether it is in the office, stuck in traffic in your car, or at a remote campsite…voila, espresso!
Not sure which crossover utility vehicle is right for you or your family? Well, while you have been sitting there, the field has gotten even more crowded. Welcome to the fold the all-new Eclipse Cross from Mitsubishi, that squeezes into the triple-diamond showroom bookended by a duo of Outlanders.
When considering safety and security for your home, one of the top priorities has to be remote monitoring with a camera system. And if you have priced systems available today, some will leave you a bit intimidated. The Cori HD Smart Home Security Camera system offers an affordable dual-camera system that is easy to install and use.
The Lexus RX, the best-selling luxury utility vehicle on the market, now offers a third row. While that may not come as a shock to many folks, what is surprising is just how long it took Lexus to add that third row.
Surf’s up! Summer is officially here, and what better way to celebrate the sun and heat than by visiting the closest body of water you can find? Enjoy it even more by taking along the new Surf waterproof Bluetooth speaker from ION Audio.
Looking to up your game at the next party for the family, friends, kids, or grandkids? Fobbles. Yes, Fobbles – fog-filled bubbles. Fobbles is a bubble and fog machine in one and can combine the two that will transform your party into a full-on rave.
If you have been looking for an ultra-durable, insulated, food safe backpack, look no further than MUUL and its new RuckBucket. This new rig will allow you to carry just about anything into or out of your destination – be that mountain, desert, racetrack…anywhere.
Many times I sit at my computer and type on the keyboard and I remember back to the days of my youth, hammering away at the keys of our old manual typewriter. KnewKey has debuted the Rymek retro-style mechanical keyboard that brings back a bit of that nostalgia without the muscle ache.
Does the world really need another compact crossover utility vehicle? Hyundai thinks so and has launched the all-new Kona for the U.S. market. Compact, cute, and capable…and designed for the “urban adventurer.”
New and improved! Oh, how I wish I had a dollar for every time I have heard that phrase. Now we get to hear it from Infiniti as they introduce the 2019 QX50 midsize premium luxury crossover. New? Yes, including an all-new type of engine. Improved? You betcha!
Summertime is just about here, and with it comes all the new gear from NERF. Recently, my crack team of testers and I checked out a couple of the new releases for 2018 to see if they are worthy of kids big and small.
Longer, lighter, safer, smarter, and stronger…and a little bit more expensive. That is how I am describing the new 2019 Ram 1500 pickup. We spent a very short time with the newest Rebel model recently and came away with some surprises.
Sorry, but I make no apologies for liking minivans. I find them the absolute best overall vehicle for hauling every member of the family including (grandma and Fido) as well as everything you can fit in a few baskets at the big box stores. Combine that with awesome fuel economy and comfort and you have the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid.
The light truck segment of new vehicle sales is ultra competitive, and relative newcomer Nissan is doing everything possible to get its share of those transactions. Case in point is the new Titan Midnight Edition we recently tested that adds many items consumers would add to the pickups after purchase, but they can now get right on the showroom floor.
Several years ago I was invited to a special showing of a touring concept vehicle from Infiniti. It was called Essence, and it featured the styling trend for the future of the brand. Since then, we have seen elements appear in much of the new product including this 2018 Q50S Red Sport 400 sedan.