2008 RX 350 SUV

Style Factor: Lexus has always been the epitome of style and luxury. In their constant pursuit of perfection Lexus has never let me down. First off the Lexus brand has ALWAYS had some of the sexiest color combinations of any vehicle line. I had the pleasure of driving the RX 350 in Brandy Wine Mica. This color is so rich and adds to Lexus' continued commitment of cutting edge style. The lines of the RX 350 flow like the most beautiful symphony. The supple black leather pointed seats coupled with wood grained accents on the steering wheel and shift knob continue the theme of ultimate refinement. The reclining and sliding 40/20/40 split rear seat offer many options for transporting groceries, a day's worth of shopping on Rodeo Dr. or even that rare antique fit smoothly in this SUV.

Performance Factor: The RX 350 comes equipped with a 3.5L 270 HP 4 Cam 24-Valve V6 engine with Variable Valve Timing and 5 speed Automatic Transmission...in other words this mid-size SUV is as fast as it is sexy! The full time all-wheel drive makes maneuvering a breeze even through some of the tightest spots.

Bling Factor: The Luxury Value Edition features raise the Lexus brand up another notch. You can't wrong with the Mark Levinson® Premium sound system, Rear-Seat Entertainment System with its 9" LCD screen, DVD player and 2-wireless headphones, Navigation, Rear Back-Up Camera (greatest safety feature ever!)

The subtleties are some of the most impressive features of the Lexus RX 350. The illuminated Lexus logo and storage bin encapsulate everything that's progressive and seductive about this SUV. I mean who thinks of lights in those types of places, but when you see them it's a wonder why everyone doesn't have it. It's that forward thinking that makes Lexus the standard in luxury.

MSRP $48,875 For more info go to www.lexus.com

2008 Lincoln MKX

Style Factor: Everything about the MKX screams luxury. It's the perfect mid-size/crossover SUV. The sensibility of a mid-sized sedan and the room and comfort of a medium SUV are married perfectly. It's not too boxy or too round. The chrome accents of the Limited Edition Package add to the overall refined look of the MKX. Lincoln, known for reaching higher...has done just that. The exterior's bold lines and the interior's sleek contouring have a modern appeal without infringing on Lincoln's reputation of always blending class with an unforgettable driving experience.

Performance Factor: With an aluminum 3.5L Duratec V-6 engine that puts out 265 HP and 250 lbs of torque and a 6-speed automatic transmission; a powerful and smoothed-out ride is just a turn of the key away. Agility and performance are enhanced with the MKX's 4-wheel independent suspension.

Bling Factor: The Elite and Limited Edition packages offer high-end features like the SYNC Voice Activated System, Panoramic Vista Roof, 20" chrome-clad aluminum wheels and a powerful THX audio system.

MSRP $42,405 Fore more info go to www.lincoln.com

2008 Hummer H2 SUV

Style Factor: This road warrior is definitely not for the weak of heart! Big and bold lines and a profile that would make even the strongest competitor shiver; the Hummer H2 is a beast. While the interior is rugged, it is still well-balanced by all the leather appointed accoutrements. Heated full bucket seats cradle the driver and front passenger in absolute comfort. Roomy is an understatement! The soccer mom toting around the team won't be hearing ‘he's sitting too close to me' in this ride. There is a reoccurring sense of balance with this SUV. Comfort and style is not sacrificed for performance and functionality.

Performance Factor: This giant is not hampered by its size. The 6.2 L V8 Vortec engine with 393 HP and a 6-speed transmission holds its own. It picks up speed like an juggernaut; a constant stream of power barreling down the road without loosing its grace and agility.
Please believe that I am not going to ignore the pink elephant in the room...gas mileage. While mpg fuel economy is not applicable to this vehicle by EPA's standards, it wasn't that bad...if you adjust your driving patterns. I learned to drive in circles; meaning no zigzagging around town. Purposeful and a direct plan of action is the way to go. Besides if you are driving a Hummer gas consumption is not high on your priority list anyway.

Bling Factor: Size ALWAYS matters! Hummer might want to offer counseling sessions with this full-size SUV. Power is intoxicating. The Ultimate Marine LTD edition I drove came with bold chrome 20' wheels, body color matching side vents, rocker moldings and fender flares. Premium Bose 9 speaker with surround sound system and the rear vision system add to the fly-ness of this ride.

MSRP $69,315 Fore more info go to www.hummer.com

2008 Expedition Limited Funkmaster Flex Edition

Style Factor: I feel like I need a beat to write this review. So why don't y'all just nod your head and roll with me as I drop a few lines about the Funkmaster Flex Expedition (trust that was not an attempt to spit...lol).

To say FMF likes cars is like saying Jay-Z is just a rapper. He is the ultimate car enthusiast. First of all when this hip-hop beat on wheels rolled up on me all I could do was smile. This man-magnet drew a lot of attention from the opposite sex. Men were literally asking me to pull over so they could check out the ride...(uh no!) But I get the attraction...lol! While driving down the street only Funkmaster Flex could make a statement like this. B-O-L-D! The Colorado Red and Black trimmed ride was blazin' in the sun. When you look at it all you hear is Tupac Shakur's "All Eyez On Me."

Bling Factor: The FMF package includes before and after market additions like 3-D Carbon body kit with custom front/rear fascia and side skirts, two-tone Black and Colorado Red paint with Orange pin striping, Funkmaster Flex chrome badges on fenders, trailer hitch cover, and 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels... and that's just the exterior. The interior boasts second-row captain's chairs, Black leather interior with contrasting Colorado Red stitching, Colorado Red shifter, center stack and door appliqués/bezels, FMF stitched logo headrests, unique floor mats with FMF logo, Limited-Edition Funkmaster Flex numbered dash plaque and SIRIUS® Satellite Radio.

MSRP (apprx) $56,000 For more info go www.ford.com