What to Drive After That Fresh Cut: October Whips

It's officially Fall and this quartet of four-wheelers deserves a serious look when considering ending 2021 with a bang!
Dennis Malcolm Byron A.K.A. Ale Sharpton
Beer, auto, travel, food, sports, music & clothing fanatic, award-winning journalist, photographer and Creative Director.

It's officially fall and this quartet of four-wheelers deserves a serious look when considering ending 2021 with a bang!

2021 Ford Bronco 2-Door 4x4

After so much talk and anticipation of legendary Ford Bronco's return after a 25-year hiatus dating back to '96, the 2021 two-door version confirmed the hype. Kicking in the door with the Outer Banks version dressed in a welcomed bold Cyber Orange, we removed the front row hardtop panels (but left the doors on although removal is an option) and took on everything from tight street corners to rough terrain in the mountains effortlessly. Packing a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine under the hood complemented by a 10-speed auto transmission, standouts include eight driving modes (called G.O.A.T.), a 12-inch LCD touchscreen, Co-Pilot 360-degree camera, wireless charging pad, B&O sound system, signature LED headlights, and 4G WiFi sitting on 18-inch black-painted aluminum alloy wheels. Ford graciously rewarded Bronco loyalists with this successful resurgence and will make sure their iconic SUV is here to stay. Keep an eye out for the other various trims and packages in both two and four-door versions. This is a definite candidate for car of the year.

What the sticker says: $38,955.00 (MSRP); $49.540 fully equipped in the Outer Banks edition.
For more information, visit Ford.com.
Photos courtesy of Ford.

2022 Hyundai Veloster N + 2022 N M/T

Let's be frank: Hyundai is killing it. One of the reasons for such a successful boom is their aggressive approach to design, quality upgrades and increased power allotment; the 2021 Veloster N is a perfect example coming in both automatic (8-speed Wet Dual Clutch Transmission with paddle shifters) and the 2022 version in close-ratio 6-speed manual (M/T).

Hyundai shows racing enthusiasts major love with its N series, named after the research and development center for high-performance automobiles based in Namyang, South Korea, and the world-famous test track in Nürburgring, Germany. Racing means muscle, and the Veloster gets an aggressive jolt—a 2.0-liter turbo engine packing 275 horses and 260 lb.-ft. of torque—in both trims. The N Grin Control System provides five driving modes, an electronic controlled suspension with 5 G-Force sensors, and a sport exhaust for extra roar. This series also has its exclusive embellishments to please the eye from the glowing "N" on the seats, to the 19-inch alloy wheels with Pirelli tires, two-stage rear spoiler, custom "N" floor mats, glossy black side mirrors, and leather-wrapped steering wheel to help terrorize the roads. Coming with a plethora of standard safety features, high-tech amenities, and generous free maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles (whatever comes first), there is virtually nothing negative to say about the Veloster N and M/T. (See what I did there?)
Look for other models of the Hyundai legion to be presented in the N version soon as well.

What the sticker says: The N is $34,745 (MSRP); The N M/T is $33,525.
For more information, visit Hyundaiusa.com.

2021 KIA K5 GT

The all-new K5 line grandly enters the market and has heads turning for numerous reasons. Shelving the Optima sedan, KIA flexes a lot more muscle with this more sleek, muscular, and powerful four-door variation. This GT version reviewed comes stacked with a 2.5-liter, turbo 4-cylinder engine topping out at 290 horsepower, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a panoramic sunroof sitting on 19-inch sport alloy wheels. The special GT 1 Package adds a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a BOSE premium sound system, LED projection headlights, the signature UVO link and numerous safety features ideal for this type of vehicle. Looking stunning, especially in Sapphire Blue and boasting incredible value, KIA did a great job adding this family.

What the sticker says: $35,705 MSRP including the GT 1 package costing $4000
For more information, visit Kia.com.
Photos courtesy of KIA.

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer AWD RS

This all-new SUV provides drivers with both style and durability in this head-turning vehicle. The 2021 version has upgraded its exterior from its previous Chevrolet model to sculpt the body more attractively. The Trailblazer's numerous amenities consist of keyless entry and start; 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity; 10-way power seat adjustment with lumbar control; roof rack and side rails for mounting bikes (or any personal outdoor equipment); Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability; wireless charging; and Bose Premium 7-speaker system. The Trailblazer does not disappoint when it comes to safety with the automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert coming standard in every vehicle. We also appreciated the combined 28 MPG for short and long trips. This value and style combined make the Trailblazer a great option for those wanting a vehicle that will fit a busy and ever-changing lifestyle.

What the sticker says: $30,580 MSRP as reviewed

For more information, Chevrolet.com.
Photos courtesy of Chevrolet.

Before You Go

Like this month's whips? Make sure you check out last month's edition and please, share and tell your friends!