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Driver’s Notebook: Family Gems

Here are some standout autos to consider bringing home to the family

Article by Dennis Malcolm Byron

Photography by Courtesy of Automakers

Here is a lineup of highly recommended automobiles to consider for you and the family, whether it's quick errands or traveling across the country comfortably complete with high-tech features, practicality, value and style. Happy motoring!


2020 Lincoln Corsair AWD Reserve    

The iconic Lincoln brand has represented the American automotive sector for more than a century, and in 2020, it proves to stay relevant in style, technology and elegance with the all-new Corsair small luxury SUV. While a responsive turbocharged 2.0-liter heart, 8-speed transmission, five drive modes, market-leading safety rankings, a cloud-like ride and curvy exterior gratefully come standard, numerous options are available to upgrade this automobile. The Reserve trim flaunts a 2.3-liter turbocharged I-4 engine peaking at 280 horsepower and panoramic vista roof with a power shade. The Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Plus package with a 360-degree camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, Speed Sign Recognition, Active Park Assist Plus, Evasive Steering Assist and Reverse Brake Assist is a strongly recommended option. Whatever the customization, the result will be more than satisfactory in the Corsair for you and the family.

Base price: $44,830 for the Reserve model

Visit Lincoln.com for more information.


2020 Toyota C-HR Limited

Toyota did a solid job of making the C-HR an eye-grabbing standout with the sleek, sporty design in the competitive subcompact-crossover sector while still seating up to five passengers. Its shiftiness, responsive handling and coming loaded with options listed as standard are also a plus in its first of four trims starting with the LE; owners will appreciate the 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay and signature Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 pre-collision system to ease the mind. The 2020 C-HR Limited brings blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry, leather-trimmed heated front seats, an adaptive front-lighting system and 18-inch alloy wheels while still not breaking the bank. The respectable gas mileage (27/31 mpg) makes this model even harder to pass. The Nightshade version ups the cool factor with its black exterior embellishments as well, but with seemingly countless color combinations including two-tone, roof-and-body combinations. Ultimately, it's whatever the buyer desires.

Base price: $26,500 for the Limited model

Visit Toyota.com for more information.


2020 Infiniti QX50 Autograph AWD

For a more luxurious approach for up to five passengers in the compact SUV sector, you may want to consider the new QX50. Infiniti is renowned for the powerful engines, sound handling and craftsmanship it continues to deliver. More wow factors includes a 2.0-liter heart pumping out 268 horsepower, high-tech InTouch infotainment system presented in dual-screen format, 16-speaker BOSE sound system, standard Apple CarPlay and Android applications, signature Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, Wi-Fi hotspot and a generous assortment of standard safety features. The optional Premium White Leather Package puts a stamp on this premium vehicle the whole family can enjoy.

Base price: $55,850

Visit Infinitiusa.com  for more information.


2020 Buick Encore GX Essence

Buick has done a commendable job addressing the compact SUV market by attractively refining the Encore inside and out in 2020. It also generously provides a plethora of advanced safety features, 18-inch wheels, extensive LED lighting, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration and ECOTEC 1.3-liter turbo engine with a punchy response. One of the major draws is the exceedingly popular Alexa Built-In functionality as an informative driving companion without giving up a seat in Encore’s already roomy cabin. Coming in three trims, the Essence comes highly recommended enhanced with the Advanced Technology Package. The wallet-friendly 31 miles-per-gallon average is certainly another bonus.  

Base price: $28,500

Visit Buick.com for more information.


2020 Mazda CX-9 and Mazda3 Hatchback

The 2020 Mazda CX-9 in the Signature trim may be big enough to comfortably seat up to seven passengers in three rows, but it also comes with the welcomed AWD component for excellent maneuverability. To add, numerous amenities come standard including a 9-inch touch screen display, 20-inch wheels, Nappa leather interior, and high safety ratings complete with the now standard i-ACTIVSENSE suite to confidently navigate with the family. The powerful, turbocharged SKYACTIV-G engine packs 225 horses under the hood to make this an overall solid purchase.

For smaller families, the more compact, nimble Mazda 3 also comes in AWD and an overall joy to drive; its SKYACTIV-G engine set at 2.0 liters delivers 186 horsepower, averages 27 miles per gallon and showcases a hatchback formation for easier loading. The Premium Package enhances the driving experience with leather seats, a sliding glass sunroof and paddle shifters to list a few. Whatever the choice, Mazda’s “Soul Red Crystal Metallic” paint continues to be a crowd favorite with an exterior to wow while on the road.

Mazda CX-9 Base price: $46,115

Mazda3 Hatchback base price: $28,900

Visit Mazdausa.com for more information.

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