Matthew C. Keegan

The Ram brand has been on an upward trajectory ever since it was separated from Dodge beginning in 2009. Ram Trucks represent a variety of utility-type vehicles, but its flagship product has always been its line of full-size pickup trucks, which are chiefly sold in North America

Heavy pollen and spring rains are in abundance in my area at this time of the year, which makes it difficult, if not downright challenging to evaluate any drop-top model. But the Mazda MX-5 Miata is one vehicle I do not see all that often, therefore when an opportunity to drive one appears, you make it work

Also, the automaker said it will help its competitors by developing and selling electrified vehicles when they use the company’s components, including, motors, batteries, computers, control units, and related technologies in their own vehicles. Based on the high volume of inquiries we receive about our vehicle electrification systems from companies that recognize a need to popularize hybrid and other electrified vehicle technologies, we believe that now is the time for cooperation,” said Shigeki Terashi, Member of the Board and Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Corporation. Toyota’s royalty-free patents are especially useful for hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEV). The automaker’s Lexus luxury brand is also well represented by such models as the Lexus NX 300h utility vehicles and the Lexus ES Hybrid sedan.

Lexus offers the 2019 NX in two trims: 300 ($36,485) and 300 F Sport ($38,725). These include a Navigation Package ($1,860), which bundles a navigation system with a 10.3-inch display screen, a 10-speaker audio system, and an additional USB port, and a Comfort Package ($980) with heated and ventilated front seats, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic dimming side mirrors with automatic tilt-down in reverse. This one bundles enhanced LED daytime running lights, a power moonroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, power side mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats, a power tilt-and-telescopic stewing wheel, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. You’ll find individual options offered as well, including an outer-sliding moonroof ($1,100), power rear doors with kick sensor ($550), upgraded wheels ($420), heated front seats ($440), power-folding and reclining rear seats ($400), and other comfort and safety options.