With 2022 upon us, here is a trio of automobiles to help let us know what’s in store. These whips will definitely keep us occupied until the flying cars head into production. Happy New Year y’all!‍

2021 Volkswagen ID.4

Volkswagen took a gangster leap into the future with their brand-new ID.4 model, adding a gem to their lineup. This progressive electric vehicle kicks in the door of the crossover SUV segment with its curvy, futuristic frame combined with Volkswagen engineering’s universal EV setup leading to a definite standout for environmentally conscious drivers. On the head-turning tip, the ID.4’s exterior is accentuated with a black roof complete with silver roof rails, panoramic fixed-glass, and an electric sunshade; 20-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires; and the automatic LED package is complete with inclement weather lights for optimal visibility.

Besides the various advanced tech enhancements rivaling Blade Runner, inside the cabin features an “intuitive start” where everything turns on as soon as you enter the driver’s seat when the key fob is in your hand. Volkswagen makes comfort a top priority. The V-Tex leatherette seats; heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel; a center console with USB data and charging ports; multi-color adjustable ambient lighting; and heated front seats with 4-way lumbar support and massage capability collectively make every errand a blessing. Safety gets a serious nod also with an advanced airbag protection system, Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS), and travel and lane assist. The most highlighted perk, of course, is the savings on gas mileage at an EPA estimated range of 260 miles with a full charge which further justifies why the ID.4 EV was voted 2021 World Car of the Year. You say you want the future? Here it is.

What the sticker says: The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 is $45,190 MSRP

For more information, visit VW.com.

Photos courtesy of Volkswagen.

2022 Genesis GV70 3.5T AWD Sport Prestige

The highly anticipated, all-new GV70 3.5T AWD Sport Prestige has lived up to the hype in virtually all facets. Eyes will be glued to its sleek body design and stealthy LED lighting presentation. This compact luxury SUV provides two engine choices—a turbocharged, 2.5-liter four-cylinder version and the reviewed twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6—with both using an eight-speed automatic transmission. The latter engine labeled the Sport Prestige trim pushes 375 horses, plus the AWD capability makes maneuvering sharp corners a breeze.

The already plush interior boasts a panoramic sunroof and the Select Package (Nappa leather, ventilated front seats; Genesis digital key; surround-view camera system; and banging 16-speaker Lexicon audio system) and Sport Prestige package (21-inch alloy wheels, carbon fiber trim, 12.3-inch digital cluster, three-zone climate control) are highly recommended for the full Genesis experience.

Simply put, this is easily nominated as one of the top debuts of the year. It’s fire!‍

What the sticker says: The 2022 Genesis GV70 3.5T AWD Sport Prestige is $52,600 MSRP. ‍

For more information, visit Genesis.com.

Photos courtesy of Genesis.‍

2022 Lexus ES300h Ultra Lux

For the ultimate luxury hybrid sedan experience, the 2022 Lexus ES300h Ultra Lux is among the top autos of the segment in features, looks, and value. After getting used to the ignition’s silent start, drivers will dig the cloudlike ride powered by the 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine delivering a responsive 215 horsepower regulated by three driving modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport. It comes complete with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and rolls at a wallet-friendly 44 mpg combined gas mileage.

The posh cabin’s experience is embellished by a 12.3-inch color display with navigation and voice command including Amazon Alexa; wireless charging; WiFi; quilted heated leather upholstery; a woodgrain steering wheel; Apple/Android CarPlay; and theater-esque 17-speaker, 1,800-watt Mark Levinson audio package to list a few of the generous amenities. This sedan sits on 18-inch “Split V-Spoke” alloy noise-reduction wheels and flaunts a stunning, refreshed grille to stand up to the bank-breaking exotic cars it pulls up on. To ease the mind, Lexus is consistent in maintaining safety through their revered 2.5 pre-collision system, 10 airbags with Smart Stop technology, pedestrian detection, lane departure, and steering assist.

An overall safe, comfortable, and impressive option for hybrid enthusiasts ranked the highest of the ES 300’s four trims—base, F Sport, Luxury, and this Ultra Luxury—its price tag under $55K fully equipped makes this whip a strong consideration. Oh, and the Lex I reviewed in Nightfall Mica blue was a good look. Lexus keeps it poppin’.

‍What the sticker says: The 2022 Lexus ES300h Ultra Lux is $51,080 MSRP and $54,450 including the triple beam headlights, Navigation/Mark Levinson Audio Package, and destination fees. ‍

For more information, visit Lexus.com.

Photos courtesy of Lexus.

Make sure you visit Ale Sharpton for these reviews, plus a lot more vehicles to keep you drooling.

Cheers!