Top Car Dealer Snags 45K sf at Moody Rambin Office Development

One of the country’s top car dealers is setting up shop in west Houston.

Group 1 Automotive leased 45,000 square feet at 730 Town and Country Boulevard, according to filings with the state. The Fortune 300 dealer will build out office space on the fifth and sixth floors, work that is expected to cost $7.25 million, the filing states. That’s about $160 per square foot.

Work, which includes “general demolition,” building office space and constructing a showcase stairway between the floors, is scheduled to begin in May and run through October.

The office will be a part of Moody Rambin’s eight-story, 167,000-square-foot Town Centre Two. It sits within the company’s 41-acre mixed-use development in West Houston, Town and Country Village. The development is just south of Midway’s CityCentre.

Town Centre Two broke ground in 2022, around the same time Greystar signed on to lease 68,000 square feet. The Charleston, South Carolina-based rental developer and manager downsized in the move, only planning to use 34,000 square feet while subleasing the rest, leaving open the possibility for expansion, according to the Houston Chronicle.

Group One Automotive won’t be setting up shop far from its current headquarters at One Memorial City Plaza, which sits just on the other side of Gessner Road. That building, owned by Houston-based MetroNational, stands 12 stories and counts Group One as one of its major tenants.

Houston’s office market has faced challenges in recent years. Just west of Town Centre Two, though, lies one of the city’s bright spots, the Energy Corridor. Leasing activity has concentrated there and in the Woodlands, Howard Hughes’ master-planned community north of downtown.

The city’s average office vacancy rate is about 21 percent, but high-profile foreclosures, like the one that is threatened at the Scanlan Building downtown, have suggested trouble for many of the city’s commercial landlords.

Discover the 2024 Lexus TX 350 AWD Premium: Where Sophistication Meets Power

Introducing the 2024 Lexus TX 350 AWD Premium SUV

Dive into luxury with the 2024 Lexus TX 350 AWD Premium SUV, a marvel of modern automotive design that seamlessly integrates opulence with advanced technology. This SUV elevates every drive into a serene journey, shielding you from the bustling chaos of the outside world with its quiet and luxuriously appointed cabin.

Engine Dynamics and Fuel Management

The Lexus TX 350 is powered by a vigorous 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, pushing out 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, ensuring a dynamic yet smooth driving experience. Coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it enhances the ride quality while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency—boasting up to 26 miles per gallon on highways and 20 in urban areas.

Design Versatility and Visual Impact

Built to accommodate a variety of outdoor adventures, the TX 350 supports a robust towing capability of 5,000 lbs, catering to those who need their vehicle to adapt to both everyday commutes and active weekends. The SUV’s design is visually appealing, featuring a sleek blue exterior and a sophisticated beige interior, making it a head-turner in any environment.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Enhanced Safety

Leveraging Lexus’s commitment to innovation, the TX 350 is equipped with leading safety technologies including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. These systems enhance the safety of the vehicle, providing drivers with added confidence and peace of mind during their travels.

Why Experience the Lexus TX 350?

To fully appreciate the exceptional capabilities of the Lexus TX 350, scheduling a test drive is recommended. This SUV isn’t just about transportation—it’s about enhancing the driving experience, emphasizing comfort, safety, and performance. Discover the impact of the Lexus TX 350 on your driving lifestyle and consider how it could transform your daily commute into a journey of luxury and efficiency.

2024 BMW iX xDrive50 Long-Term Test: A Road Trip Champ, Even With A Flat Tire

Spotting the sun meant covering a lot of miles, and sacrificing one tire to the gods.

I’m six months and just over 6,000 miles into owning a BMW iX, and while the smiles still outweigh the groans by a healthy margin, for the first time, we’ve hit a real headache on the road. It wasn’t, though, necessarily the car’s fault.

If you missed our introduction, I’m leasing a 2024 BMW iX xDrive50, purchased with my own money and without any friendly discounts offered due to my position in the industry. I paid what any other customer off the street would have paid.

2024 BMW iX Long Term Report 2 (1)

I’m charting my impressions of the thing, an SUV that is generally held to be among the best cars that BMW makes—but also perhaps the ugliest. At this point, I’m genuinely over the looks. In fact, I’ve come to like it, but as a former owner of a bugeye Subaru WRX, I’ve never been one to shy away from a great-driving but, funny-looking machine.

Since last month, my wife and I engaged on our biggest road trip in the iX since we picked up the thing, a drive that turned into something of an adventure. It was all in pursuit of the eclipse. Or, more specifically, clear skies through which to view that celestial moment.

Following The Sun

With our bulky GSO Newtonian telescope and Sky-Watcher mount secured in the back to the iX’s handy tie-down points, we headed off on the 180-odd mile journey from our home near Albany, NY, to see family who live near Watertown, NY. Watertown happened to be right smack dab in the middle of totality for the event.

Our route was a mix of back-way and highway, and while I usually use Google Maps via Android Auto for navigation around town, for longer drives, when I want to monitor range accuracy, I use BMW’s integrated navigation.

2024 BMW iX Long Term Update

The BMW nav is good enough that I should use it more, but lately, it’s been getting extremely slow to chart routes. While the voice recognition is quick to enter an address, the infotainment system takes upwards of 60 seconds to figure out which way to go, plus another solid 30-second delay before alternate routes show up.

It certainly wasn’t that sluggish before, and I’m not sure if it’s a software update or something else at play here. I’ll keep an eye on it going forward.

Once the route was calculated, the iX showed an estimated 38 percent charge remaining upon arrival in Watertown. And that’s precisely what we got when we arrived. This thing is yet again providing world-class accuracy on range estimation. And solid efficiency, too. That 180-mile trip was completed at a reasonable 2.8 mi/kWh despite the chilly 45-degree day and a fair bit of time on the highway.

Knowing that we might have to change venue based on the weather forecast, while in Watertown, we used a 150 kW EVolve NY charger to bring us back to full. Well, to 95 percent, anyway.

2024 BMW iX Long Term Report 2 (5)

The iX preconditioned itself so that we were getting 144 kW almost as soon as we plugged in, but that, of course, tapered off as the battery capacity increased. The charge to 95 percent took about 45 minutes.

While the car was charging and I was trying to make a little headway on the never-ending struggle to conquer my email, my wife was comparing a dozen different forecasts. The news wasn’t looking good. Where Watertown had previously been showing clear skies, the clouds were coming, and their timing looked terrible.

We had the choice of staying there and hoping for the best, or making a run through northern New York, an area with barely any chargers, on a weekend when absolutely everyone was heading north. It was a risky decision, and with a car with less range, we wouldn’t have tried it.

But try it we did.

2024 BMW iX Long Term Report 2 (4)

Still A Range And Efficiency Beast

We topped up the car to 100 percent on a level one charger overnight and then headed east again in the morning. This time, our journey would take us through the Adirondack Park on some of the most scenic country roads the Northeast has to offer.

Scenic, but hilly. From Watertown’s elevation of just 466 feet we climbed up through the park, winding around the High Peaks, then back down again as we made our way to Lake Champlain.

I was curious to see what the terrain and the still-chilly temperatures would do to the iX’s range, but neither I nor the car expected the journey to be as efficient as it was.

The car’s navigation predicted we’d make the 200-mile journey with 28 percent remaining. We actually rolled in with 41 percent. This was by far the biggest miss the SUV’s nav has delivered yet, but it’s hard to fault the thing for under-promising and over-delivering.

Anyhow, the terrain and temperature were countered by the relatively low, 50 mph average speed, resulting in 3.2 mi/kWh for that leg of the journey. That equates to over 350 miles of theoretical range.

Going that far through a land barren of chargers was a risk, but it paid off. Vermont is a stunning place at the worst of times, but beautiful weather made for a spectacular eclipse.

The iX VS. The Flat Tire

When the sun stopped hiding it was time for us to head home. As you’ve likely seen, the crowds vacating the path of totality on Monday evening were intense. Thankfully, we had access to a level-two charger at my brother-in-law’s, so we were fully charged well before the sun did its disappearing act.

But we still needed to dodge the traffic. One stretch of Rt. 22A was particularly jammed, so we decided to take a scenic detour around some pasture land on less-used routes.

One of those was Class 4, Vermont’s category of barely maintained roads, intended for proper 4X4 machines. Despite still being in the throes of an extended mud season and despite the road being sloppy and rutted, the iX did fine, pulling us through without issue.

Its Goodyear tires, however, didn’t fare so well. We picked up a puncture in the left-rear, a half-inch gouge right in the center of the tread. The tire thankfully held pressure long enough to get back to the family we’d stayed with in Vermont, but it surely wouldn’t survive the drive home.

2024 BMW iX Long Term Report 2 (2)

It took two patches to plug the hole, a process made more complicated by the iX’s use of BMW’s customary recessed jack points. The iX does not include the requisite adapter to enable the use of a standard floor jack. It also features neither a spare tire nor a scissor jack, offering only an emergency can of sealant.

But the patch held, and by the time we’d finished the job, the worst of the traffic had passed. We managed an average of 41 mph on the journey back to Albany, a 155-mile trip that saw the iX deliver an impressive 3.3 mi/kWh.

2024 BMW iX Long Term Report 2 (3)

The BMW was still showing an estimated 209 miles of range on the dash when we got home, for a theoretical total range of well over 400 miles, about a third higher than the SUV’s EPA rating. Maybe being stuck in traffic isn’t so bad.

While the journey wasn’t without its headaches, the iX was a perfect companion. It delivered stellar range through an EV-charging black hole, had plenty of cargo space for two telescopes plus a weekend’s worth of food and luggage, and was calm and smooth the entire way.

Revamped Guide: Exploring the Pinnacle of Automotive Excellence in 2024

Introducing the 2024’s Finest Automobiles

Prepare to journey through the world of supreme automotive craftsmanship and innovation with our guide to the best cars of 2024. This isn’t merely about choosing a vehicle; it’s about discovering a masterpiece that melds luxury with the forefront of automotive technology. For both aficionados and novices, this guide offers a window into the elite circle of top-tier cars that embody the zenith of design and functionality.

A Glimpse into Automotive Perfection

The table below introduces the frontrunners in today’s luxury car arena, highlighting unique features and the opulence they offer:

  • Rolls-Royce Boat Tail: Beyond a staggering $28 million, known for its rarity and custom luxury.
  • Bugatti La Voiture Noire: Priced at $18.68 million, epitomizing exclusivity with its homage to historical design.
  • Lamborghini Sian FKP 37: At $3.6 million, this model showcases hybrid innovation coupled with striking aesthetics.

Delve deeper as we dissect what makes each model a hallmark of luxury and engineering.

Exceptional Engineering and Luxurious Details

Rolls-Royce Boat Tail: Synonym for Luxury

The Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, priced above $28 million, is a paragon of luxury. Each unit is tailored to the buyer’s specifications, making it a symbol of wealth and exclusivity. The car features unique amenities such as bespoke cocktail tables and custom picnic sets, truly a mobile mansion.

Bugatti La Voiture Noire: The Quintessence of Elegance

At $18.68 million, the Bugatti La Voiture Noire is more than a vehicle; it’s a collector’s piece. Reflecting the pinnacle of luxury, it’s equipped with a powerful 1,578 bhp engine, ensuring that its performance is as remarkable as its aesthetics.

Insightful Additions for Potential Owners

Owning such an exquisite vehicle goes beyond the purchase—it’s about entering a lifestyle. Prospective buyers should consider not only the aesthetic and technical aspects but also the long-term servicing and care these high-end vehicles require. These cars offer not just a means of transportation but a statement of one’s values and status.

Conclusion: The Art of Choosing the Supreme

Selecting the best car in 2024 is about balancing allure with practicality. These models are more than just transport; they offer an experience that is unparalleled. With their rich blend of heritage, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, they set a benchmark in the automotive world. Whether it’s for the thrill of the drive, the beauty of the design, or the prestige that comes with ownership, each of these cars offers something unique to its owner.

This guide isn’t just a list—it’s a portal to a world where each car opens up a new realm of possibilities. Embark on this automotive adventure and discover which car resonates with your spirit and lifestyle.

2024 Update: Tesla’s Vision-Powered Autopark Shows Promise in Precision Parking

Revolutionizing Parking: Tesla’s Shift to Vision-Based Technology

Tesla’s transition from ultrasonic sensors to its Vision-based system for Autopark and other features marks a significant pivot in automotive technology. By 2022, Tesla had phased out the hardware for these functions, committing to enhance them purely through advanced visual processing. This shift suggests a future where software updates continually enhance vehicle capabilities, highlighting Tesla’s innovative approach to vehicle automation.

Evaluating Tesla Vision’s Autopark Functionality

Since the removal of ultrasonic sensors, Tesla has promised the return of enhanced Autopark capabilities via over-the-air updates. Recent tests, including detailed reviews from automotive channels like AI DRIVR, reveal that while the new system named “Banish” operates slower than its predecessors, it excels in complex maneuvers such as tight parallel parking. This detailed feedback from real-world applications provides valuable insights into the functionality and potential areas for improvement in Tesla’s vision-based technology.

User Experience and Practical Challenges

Despite its prowess in challenging parking scenarios, the current iteration of Tesla’s Autopark shows limitations in everyday situations. Users report that the feature is overly cautious, resulting in slow operation and frequent unnecessary adjustments. Moreover, the system struggles with recognizing unconventional parking spots and can often park too close to other vehicles, complicating passenger exit. These practical challenges underscore the need for ongoing refinement in Tesla’s software to balance caution with efficiency.

Additional Insights and Consumer Feedback

The new Autopark feature, though slower, has demonstrated significant potential in handling particularly difficult parking tasks, especially in busy urban environments where parallel parking is often dreaded. Users looking forward to future updates hope for speed improvements that could make the feature more practical for regular use. Consumer feedback also suggests a mixed reception due to these operational quirks, indicating areas where Tesla might focus to enhance user satisfaction and system utility.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Tesla’s Autopark

Tesla’s foray into vision-based parking assistance is a bold step towards fully autonomous vehicle technology. While current functionalities show promise, particularly in complex parking environments, there is room for improvement in speed and adaptability. As Tesla continues to refine its technology, the automotive community eagerly watches, anticipating advancements that could redefine the convenience and safety of automated parking.

Mazda Miata MSRP Crosses $30k Mark, Sales Plummet

Introduced in 1989, the Mazda Miata has been the quintessential affordable sports car for decades. Originally, its soft top configuration and I4/stick shift powertrain made it cheap to make while maintaining good handling in the twisties. But Mazda has been slowly adding features and the cost of building the car has gone up. In the past couple years there have been some big shifts in the Miata’s cost–and sales numbers.

The MX-5 Miata carved out a small but devoted niche of roadster enthusiasts. It’s been a very consistent seller for years. For example, during 2018, 2019, and 2020, Mazda sold about 8,000 Miatas.

The best Miata sales year in recent history was 2021. Back then, folks were stuck in quarantine with only driving as an escape and so car sales went sky high. Mazda sold 10,470 roadsters that year. In 2022, that number dropped to 6,172 cars. When Miata sales climbed back to 8,973 units in 2023, it was a 45% year-over-year increase.

By 2023, manual transmission sales had climbed from their all-time-low below 1% to 1.7%. There seemed to be a resurgence of simples sports cars, so it probably felt like a good time to be Mazda. perhaps this is why the automaker tacked the biggest increase in years on to the Miata’s MSRP.

At the beginning of 2023, the Miata’s MSRP was $28,050. This number climbed a bit with mid-year price bumps. Then for the 2024 model year, Mazda slapped another $935 on to the price of its base trim. The result was a MSRP of $30,150.

Mazda doesn’t sell a ton of its little convertibles in the winter. But this year has been especially bad. Mazda sold 389 Miatas in January 2024 (down from 724 last year), 436 in February (compare that with 783 lat year), and 436 in March (vs 1,083). Last year, March, April, and May were the MX-5’s big months.

We’ll have to wait and see whether the Miata’s Q1 sales numbers are an odd anomaly, part of a downward trend, or just the latest chapter in a roller coaster couple of years.

Fatal Incident in Las Vegas: Bicyclist Succumbs to Injuries After SUV Collision

Overview of the Fatal Collision

In a grievous update from Las Vegas, Jose Dominguez has succumbed to injuries from a collision with an SUV, which occurred three weeks ago. This incident took place on North Nellis Boulevard just beyond East Bonanza Road around 7:46 p.m. on April 7. Such accidents underscore the dangers that cyclists face daily while sharing roads with larger vehicles.

Collision Details

The Las Vegas Metro Police report that the tragic event unfolded as Dominguez, maneuvering a Roadmaster Mountain Sport SX, tried to cross North Nellis but inadvertently entered the path of a northbound Honda Pilot. The SUV collided with Dominguez on its front left, inflicting severe injuries that later led to his death. The Honda’s driver remained at the scene, cooperated with the police, and displayed no signs of impairment.

Responses and Road Safety Initiatives

This incident is the 53rd traffic-related fatality reported by the Las Vegas Metro Police in 2024, highlighting the critical need for better protective measures for cyclists. In response, there’s consideration for an ordinance that would allow cyclists to ride in the middle of lanes, improving their visibility and safety. Such changes aim to foster a safer environment for all road users, potentially preventing future tragedies.

Advocating for Improved Cyclist Safety

The death of Jose Dominguez has ignited calls for urgent reforms in road safety to better protect bicyclists. Advocates are pushing for well-defined road-sharing protocols and enhanced visibility for cyclists. The establishment of dedicated bike lanes and rigorous enforcement of vehicle-cyclist interaction rules are essential to enhance the safety of cyclists, who remain highly vulnerable on the road.

Top Cars Under ₹20 Lakh: Best Budget-Friendly Picks for 2024

Introduction

Finding a car that merges affordability with high-quality features is no longer an unreachable dream. As we navigate the dynamic automotive market of 2024, we present a selection of cars that offer an exceptional mix of value, comfort, and performance, all within the budget-friendly price range of under ₹20 lakh.

Quick Overview

Here’s a glance at our top car picks for smart buyers:

  • Mahindra Scorpio N: ₹13.26 lakh, 2.0 L turbocharged petrol, 200.22 bhp, 380 Nm
  • Mahindra XUV700: ₹14.03 lakh, 2.0 L turbocharged petrol, 197.26 bhp, 380 Nm
  • Toyota Innova Hycross: ₹18.82 lakh, 2.0 L petrol, 171.62 bhp, 205 Nm
  • Tata Harrier: ₹15.49 lakh, 2.0 L diesel, 167.67 bhp, 350 Nm
  • Tata Safari: ₹16.19 lakh, 2.0 L diesel, 167.67 bhp, 350 Nm
  • MG Hector: ₹18.29 lakh, 2.0 L diesel, 167.67 bhp, 350 Nm
  • Isuzu Hi-Lander: ₹19.50 lakh, 1.9 L diesel, 163 bhp, 360 Nm

Now, let’s dive into the details of each model.

Detailed Review

Mahindra Scorpio N

The Mahindra Scorpio N, a dominant player in the SUV segment, comes with a 2.0 L turbocharged petrol engine, delivering a thrilling 200.22 bhp and 380 Nm of torque. It’s designed to handle rugged terrains with ease, providing an adventurous yet smooth driving experience.

Mahindra XUV700

Mahindra XUV700

Combining sleek design with power, the Mahindra XUV700 features a robust 2.0 L turbocharged petrol engine. Producing 197.26 bhp and 380 Nm of torque, this car stands out as a premier choice for car enthusiasts in 2024.

Toyota Innova Hycross

Toyota Innova Hycross

The Toyota Innova Hycross, known for its dependability and spaciousness, is powered by a 2.0 L petrol engine. This vehicle is ideal for families seeking a reliable and comfortable ride for their travels.

Tata Harrier

Tata Harrier

The Tata Harrier boasts an impressive design and performance, driven by its 2.0 L diesel engine that produces 167.67 bhp and 350 Nm of torque. It seamlessly blends advanced technology with elegance, making every journey comfortable and stylish.

Tata Safari

Toyota Innova Hycross

The new Tata Safari continues the legacy of Tata Motors with a 2.0 L diesel engine delivering 167.67 bhp and 350 Nm of torque. It merges traditional values with modern requirements, meeting the expectations of today’s drivers.

MG Hector

MG Hector

The MG Hector stands out with its spacious interior and a sophisticated 2.0 L diesel engine, offering 167.67 bhp and 350 Nm of torque. Its smart features and refined design make it a top contender in the family car segment.

Isuzu Hi-Lander

Isuzu Hi-Lander

Perfect for urban and off-road driving, the Isuzu Hi-Lander comes with a 1.9 L diesel engine, providing 163 bhp and 360 Nm of torque. It offers a dynamic and efficient driving experience across various terrains.

Conclusion

These top-tier cars showcase a wide range of engines, power outputs, and prices to meet the diverse preferences of Indian buyers. Whether you seek performance, comfort, or value, these models exemplify automotive excellence, enhancing your driving experience in 2024.

Choosing any of these models means embracing a vehicle that elevates every journey with its exceptional features and dependable performance.

BYD’s Sea Lion 07: A Sophisticated Mid-Size Electric SUV Ready to Challenge Tesla’s Model Y

BYD’s Ambitious Move in the Electric SUV Market

BYD is setting its sights on Tesla’s dominance in the mid-size electric SUV sector with the introduction of the Sea Lion 07. Ahead of its official debut, BYD has provided a preview of the Sea Lion 07’s opulent interior. The initial images reveal a vehicle designed to compete head-to-head with Tesla’s popular Model Y.

BYD-Sea-Lion-07-specsBYD Sea Lion 07, the brand’s first “mid-sized urban smart electric SUV” (Source: BYD)

Introducing the Sea Lion 07: BYD’s Latest Electric SUV

Unveiled at the 2023 Guangzhou International Auto Show, the Sea Lion 07 showcases the innovative design expertise of Wolfgang Egger, previously with Lamborghini and Audi. This latest addition to BYD’s lineup merges luxurious details with modern functionality, positioning it as one of their most elegant electric SUVs to date.

A Closer Look at the Sea Lion 07’s Luxurious Interior

BYD has recently shared a glimpse of the Sea Lion 07’s interior, revealing a design that exudes sophistication. The SUV boasts a stylish, lightweight interior that reflects the beauty of the ocean, featuring high-quality leather upholstery and an advanced Dynaudio audio system. The 15.6-inch Adaptive Floating Screen stands out, offering a high-tech yet familiar interface reminiscent of Tesla’s design but with unique BYD touches.

BYD-Sea-Lion-07-interiorBYD Sea Lion 07 interior (Source: BYD)

BYD-Sea-Lion-07-interiorBYD Sea Lion 07 interior (Source: BYD)

BYD-Sea-Lion-07-interiorBYD Sea Lion 07 interior (Source: BYD)

Power and Pricing Insights

Though details on the Sea Lion 07’s powertrain are not fully confirmed, it is expected to feature BYD’s Blade Batteries and e-platform 3.0, promising a range of power options. Initial pricing is projected between 200,000 to 260,000 yuan ($28,000 to $35,900), positioning it competitively against Tesla’s Model Y, which starts at approximately 249,900 yuan ($34,500) in China. This pricing and the Sea Lion 07’s features suggest a strong challenge to Tesla’s established market position.

The Jeep Cherokee’s Comeback: What to Expect from the 2025 Model

Exciting News for Jeep Enthusiasts

The 2025 Jeep Cherokee is making a comeback after a brief hiatus. Contrary to rumors of its discontinuation, the Cherokee is set to rejoin the Jeep lineup with renewed vigor. This revival brings fresh anticipation for a model that has long been a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.

What to Expect from the New 2025 Cherokee

The 2025 Jeep Cherokee is poised to make a noteworthy return, despite a quiet period of development. As Jeep focused on updating other models, the Cherokee remained under the radar, leading some to believe it might be phased out. The new model is expected to feature design elements reminiscent of the larger Grand Cherokee, including a refined grille and sleek LED headlights, though it will likely forego a three-row option.

The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee off-roading
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee | Jeep

Powertrain and Pricing Insights

Built on the STLA platform, the 2025 Cherokee is anticipated to offer updated powertrain options, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. While it may not match the Grand Cherokee 4xe’s power, it is expected to provide improved fuel efficiency and range. Pricing is projected to start around $28,000, offering a more budget-friendly alternative between the Wrangler and Compass, with the aim of reviving sales and attracting a broader audience.