There is nothing better than driving around in a car that makes you feel like a million dollars, and there is no better car to help you feel this than the beloved sports car. Whether drivers want to slalom around a track, hit the country roads, or simply want to cruise; sports cars are the driving enthusiast’s choice.

With manufacturers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and Maserati dominating the sports car segment, it may seem to many that they will have to part with tens and tens of thousands of dollars, potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars, to buy a sports car that not only looks the part but also performs. But have no fear, as there are currently plenty of sports cars on the market that not only look like they should be worth a lot of money but are relatively cheap. So what could be better; an expensive, sleek-looking sports car that turns heads but costs a fraction of the price?

Related: 10 Cheap Sports Cars That Are Outrageously Reliable

10 2012 BMW Z4

Average Price: $17,800

The 2012 BMW Z4 is a mean-looking machine, thanks to its sultry curves and aggressive, low stance. This drop-top roadster combines stunning aesthetics with thrilling performance, making it a true head-turner. Boasting a long hood, pronounced kidney grille, and sleek headlights, it’s a sports car that allows the driver to make a statement when they hit the road.

Specifications and Performance

All information was gathered from Edmunds, Fueleconomy.gov, and BMW.

Under the hood, the Z4 offers a range of engines that deliver power and performance. From the peppy four-cylinder to the growling inline-six, this roadster doesn’t just look good; it goes fast too. The precise steering and sharp handling make every twisty road an exhilarating ride.

9 2012 BMW M3

Average Price: $23,600

The 2012 BMW M3 is like a perfectly tailored suit for car enthusiasts. It’s all about the muscular appearance that screams power and performance. Featuring flared wheel arches, an aggressive front bumper, and signature quad exhaust pipes, it’s a visual symphony of sportiness. Inside, the cabin provides a perfect blend of comfort and support with carbon fiber trim and M-specific seats.

Specifications and Performance

Information gathered from Edmunds, Fueleconomy.gov, and Car & Driver.

The M3’s distinctive power dome hood hints at the beast lurking beneath. Its 4.0-liter V8 engine delivers a raucous 414 horsepower, providing exhilarating performance. With its stunning appearance, luxurious interior, and heart-pounding performance, the 2012 BMW M3 offers a lot for less than $25,000!

8 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK

Average Price: $24,000

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK offers a huge amount of luxury and style for the price. With an average used price of $24,000, drivers not only get exquisite German engineering but also a classic-looking sporty roadster. The SLK’s sleek lines, iconic front grille, and elegant contours give it a refined charm that turns heads wherever it goes.

Specifications and Performance

Information gathered from Edmunds, Fueleconomy.gov, and Car & Driver.

Beneath the stunning exterior, the SLK offers a range of punchy engines that deliver power and efficiency, making it a breeze to go top-down and hit the road with the wind in your hair. With its precise steering and sharp handling, every drive in the SLK is exhilarating.

7 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti

Average Price: $26,000

In typical Italian fashion, the 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti is an absolute beauty that oozes class and style. The cockpit features luxurious leather upholstery and trim that wouldn’t look out of place in a Bentley or Ferrari, providing a comfortable and elegant driving experience.

Specifications and Performance

NewsNew

BETA XTRAINER 300 TWO-STROKE: FULL TEST

October 24, 2023 David

The Beta Xtrainer is a unique and unconventional bike that is hard to comprehend until you have ridden it. Unlike other 300cc two-stroke bikes, the Xtrainer is built for a different type of rider and a different style of riding. Despite its lower price point compared to other models, it still features high-quality components such as a Brembo hydraulic clutch and Nissin brakes. Manufactured in Italy, the Xtrainer offers a distinctive riding experience for those looking for something outside of the mainstream.

A SQUARE PEG
The market for 300cc two-stroke bikes is crowded with options, especially from European manufacturers. Beta alone offers four different models, including the motocross version (300RX), the standard off-road version (300RR), an off-road Race Edition, and the Xtrainer. While some may consider the Xtrainer an entry-level bike, it offers excellent performance and features that make it stand out. Its torque and low-rpm throttle response surpasses that of typical 300 two-stroke bikes. Additionally, it has a compact design and a low seat height, making it easier to ride in tight and technical terrain. Unlike other Beta two-stroke bikes, its power delivery is more trials-like due to different exhaust-pipe dimensions. Notably, the Xtrainer was the first bike in the modern era to feature oil injection, eliminating the need for manually mixing gas and oil.

FINDING YOUR HAPPY PLACE
The Beta Xtrainer is not meant for motocross tracks or aggressive riding. Its power delivery and suspension are better suited for slow, tight trails. The bike performs exceptionally well at low rpm with excellent throttle response. It is equipped with two power maps that offer different levels of revs, both delivering a trials-like power delivery. The Xtrainer’s low seat height and compact design make it agile in technical terrain. Despite its specialized capabilities, it remains comfortable for average-sized riders with a well-balanced stand-over height. Weighing only 226 pounds without fuel, the Xtrainer feels even lighter than its weight suggests, further enhancing its maneuverability in challenging trails.

A mainstream 300 two-stroke is also capable in similar terrain, but the Xtrainer takes it a step further. It doesn’t bog down at low rpm and never overheats. The Xtrainer even includes a radiator fan, indicating its attention to quality. It does, however, feature some cost-cutting measures such as suspension components from Olle and Korean-made Shinko tires. Handguards are not included as well.

THE REAL CHALLENGE
The biggest challenge with the Xtrainer is finding compatible riding partners. It can’t keep up with trials bikes on long trail rides, and it struggles in aggressive and high-speed riding situations. Additionally, it is not well-suited for tackling whoops or hillclimbing. A possible solution would be to have two Xtrainers sold as a set. While the Xtrainer may seem like a versatile bike for riders of all levels, it truly excels in a specific type of terrain. It awaits the company of other Xtrainers to fully unleash its potential.

News

Why The Chevy Blazer EV Will Shake-up The Electric SUV Market

October 22, 2023 David

For those deeply immersed in the world of electric vehicles, the current landscape is nothing short of a thrilling revelation. With major automotive players fully embracing the electric revolution, the future of transportation is being reshaped. They are unveiling a dazzling array of innovative models that cater to the desires of consumers, delivering a broader spectrum of choices, top-tier quality, impressive range, potent performance, and attractive price tags.

Take, for instance, the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV. This fresh addition to the world of electric mid-size SUVs is the eco-conscious counterpart to its gasoline-powered counterpart. It’s generating immense anticipation, alongside Chevrolet’s other eagerly awaited offerings: the 2024 Equinox EV and the Silverado EV pickup truck boasting an astounding 450-mile range. The forthcoming 2024 Chevy Blazer EV presents a compelling, well-rounded package, seamlessly blending style, performance, and impressive range. It’s the ideal electric vehicle for both urbanites and suburbanites, offering an attractive solution to their mobility needs.

We’re highly optimistic that this mid-size all-electric SUV from the iconic American automaker is on the cusp of creating waves in the industry. The proof lies in the pudding, as GM has escalated production of the Chevy Blazer EV to a staggering 65 examples per hour (that’s over one copy per minute) at the Ramos Arizpe Assembly in Mexico, where 4,000 skilled workers are employed, half of whom are dedicated to crafting these remarkable EVs. With a starting price tag of $56,000, the Chevrolet Blazer EV emerges as a potential game-changer, promising to shake up the electric SUV market.

The information in this article was sourced from the manufacturer Chevrolet, CNBC, and the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, among other credible sources.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The Chevy Blazer EV Should Be Your First Electric Vehicle

This Chevy EV Looks Modern And Bold

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV boasts a distinct exterior, setting it apart from any other Chevrolet vehicle. Drawing inspiration from both its gasoline-powered sibling and Chevy’s high-performance cars, it makes a grand entrance. This isn’t a mere electric transformation of the ICE Blazer; it showcases an audacious silhouette, firmly establishing its presence in the world of electric crossovers. The exterior design appears subtly elongated, a result of sharing its platform with the 2024 Cadillac Lyriq, a luxurious mid-size crossover SUV. This elongation provides it with a slight advantage in length over competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. Furthermore, the Blazer EV’s exterior design prioritizes aerodynamics for maximum range, presenting a sleek, low, and wide posture that ensures exceptional stability.

In the 2LT trim, a sophisticated monochromatic look prevails, but it’s the RS and SS trims that truly command attention with their bold and captivating designs. The front fascia takes inspiration from the Chevrolet Camaro, exuding an unforgettable presence and unique personality. The use of continuous LED lighting extending across the front, complemented by projector-beam LED highlights, is striking. An illuminated bowtie at the center, along with a forward-facing camera below, adds to the vehicle’s appeal. Gloss black elements contribute a dynamic and lively vibe.

As you move to the sides, the 2LT trim features 19-inch wheels, while the RS and SS trims elevate the experience with impressive 21-inch and 22-inch wheels, respectively. Chevy’s meticulous styling around the fender openings creates a harmonious design. Turning to the rear, you’ll again be captivated by the remarkable use of lighting, a low and elongated roof spoiler, and the iconic Chevy bowtie emblem. The two-tone roof style of the SS trim enhances the overall aesthetic of this mid-size electric SUV. The 2024 Blazer EV offers a palette of bold color options, including Black, Summit White, Iridescent Pearl Tricoat, Sterling Gray Metallic, Radiant Red Metallic, Red Hot, Galaxy Gray Metallic, and Riptide Blue Metallic.

Related: Why The Chevy Blazer EV Is Better Than The Ford Mustang Mach-E

The Blazer EV’s Interior Is Nothing Short Of Spectacular Per The Segment Standards

The interior of the Blazer EV is truly magnificent. When you step inside, you’re immediately greeted by a spacious cabin, which is quite remarkable for a two-row SUV. If you’re familiar with the conventional Blazer, you’ll notice some familiar design elements, such as the distinctive circular turbine-inspired climate vents. However, what truly catches your eye is the impressive 17.7-inch infotainment screen placed prominently in the center of the dashboard. This high-resolution display, accompanied by an 11-inch instrument cluster, brings a modern and sophisticated touch to the vehicle’s overall look. It’s worth noting that this screen is a standard feature in all Blazer EV trims.

The design of the center screen is ergonomic, with a slight tilt towards the driver. As expected from GM, the infotainment system maintains its reputation for exceptional quality. One significant improvement is that GM has separated the climate controls from the touch screen, which will be a relief to many who find integrated controls frustrating. The Blazer EV, as a five-seater, ensures utmost comfort for passengers, offering heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and ample interior lighting. For those who prefer a more vibrant interior, the RS and SS trims from Chevrolet offer a dynamic black-and-red color scheme. However, there will be a more understated option available for those who appreciate a minimalist style.

Thanks to its flat floor, courtesy of the Ultium battery platform, both the first and second-row passengers can enjoy generous legroom in this two-row mid-size SUV. With the seats up, the 2024 Chevy Blazer EV provides 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which can expand to 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Furthermore, the Blazer EV is designed with an abundance of intuitive storage compartments, which comes as no surprise considering GM’s attention to detail.

Related: Comparison: Chevy Blazer EV vs Tesla Model Y

The Blazer EV Offers Electrifying Excellence

Chevrolet has long been synonymous with robust power and unwavering reliability, crafting vehicles for those who demand nothing but the best. As such, when the Blazer EV made its debut in 2022, enthusiasts eagerly anticipated a performance that would leave them breathless. It’s noteworthy that Chevy has made a significant move, discontinuing the base 1LT trim and opting for three distinctive trims. While detailed power specifications for the 2LT and RS models remain undisclosed, the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS trim promises astonishing figures. Chevrolet boldly claims that the Blazer EV SS will deliver an astounding 557 horsepower and an impressive 648 pound-feet of torque, all underpinned by standard AWD.

2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV Specs

Model	Ti 4dr Sedan 2.0 Liter, Inline Four, RWD & AWD
Horsepower	280 Horsepower
Torque	306 Pound-Feet

	Chevy Blazer EV 2LT	Chevy Blazer EV RS	Chevy Blazer EV SS
Motor Setup	Single-motor (Dual optional)	Single-motor (Dual optional)	Dual-motor
Drivetrain	FWD, AWD	FWD, RWD, AWD	AWD
Range	279 miles	320 miles	290 miles
Starting Price	$56,715	$60,215	$65,995 (est.)

(Specs sourced from Chevrolet)

Adding to the thrill, Chevrolet introduces the Wide Open Watt (WOW) mode, akin to the Hummer EV’s “Watt To Freedom” feature. This WOW mode propels the all-electric Blazer SS from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds, rivaling the Mustang Mach-E GT’s 3.8-second benchmark. As for the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV’s range, Chevrolet has been tight-lipped about specific battery pack sizes. What we do know is that the lineup offers a range of configurations, including FWD, RWD, and AWD. The single-motor FWD 2LT model impresses with a substantial 293-mile range.

Meanwhile, the RS trim, with standard RWD, boasts a GM-estimated range of 320 miles, positioning it among the upper echelon of long-range electric vehicles. However, when equipped with AWD, both the 2LT and RS models exhibit a slight drop in range, offering 279 miles on a full charge. The top-tier Blazer EV SS model, featuring standard AWD, delivers an invigorating 290-mile range, perfectly balancing raw power with exceptional efficiency. Notably, only RS and SS models offer an upgrade with optional DC fast charging capabilities, reaching up to 190 kW. This capability supercharges your journey, adding approximately 78 miles in just 10 minutes of charging.

Of special note, only the Blazer EV SS model boasts GM’s Super Cruise, an adaptive cruise control technology that enables hands-free driving on over 400,000 miles of compatible roads in the United States and Canada. One-pedal driving and regenerative braking are standard features across all trims, enhancing driving convenience and efficiency. Moreover, all Blazer EVs are equipped with Chevrolet Safety Assist, which provides advanced safety features including:

• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Lane Keep Assist With Lane Departure Warning
• Forward Collision Alert
• Front Pedestrian Braking
• Following Distance Indicator
• Intellibeam Auto High Beams

Related: Chevrolet Equinox EV vs Blazer EV: Which One Should You Buy?

Chevrolet Addresses The Common Concern Of EV Buyers

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV addresses a common concern shared by 80-percent of prospective EV buyers, not due to a lack of interest but a shortage of charging infrastructure, as per CNBC. The issue of extended charging times and limited range closely follows as barriers to EV adoption. Chevrolet’s Blazer EV seeks to alleviate these worries with its impressive 320-mile range, just shy of the top-tier electric vehicles. The 2023 BMW iX surpasses the Blazer EV by only four miles. Despite the booming market for mid-sized, mid-range, and mid-priced EVs in recent years, the Blazer EV outperforms its peers. While the Ioniq 5 offers a range between 220 and 266 miles, the Blazer EV goes further, topping out at 100 miles more.

This robust, all-electric SUV builds upon the popularity of its gas-powered counterpart, the Chevy Trailblazer, which holds the “Top Safety Pick+” accolade from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. Equipped with Chevy Safety Assist, the Blazer EV boasts six safety features, including automated braking, object detection, 24/7 roadside assistance, and parking aid. Safety measures extend to the availability of charging infrastructure, with Energy Assist ensuring drivers are always in proximity to one of the nearly 40,000 charging stations. The Blazer EV can replenish 78 miles in just 10 minutes at fast-charging stations.

Related: 10 Cheapest Electric Vehicles With Over 300 Miles Of Driving Range

In conclusion, the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV is poised to make a significant impact in the electric SUV market. With the automotive industry embracing electrification, Chevrolet’s all-electric Blazer EV stands out as a compelling choice, offering style, performance, and an impressive 320-mile range. Its production surge underscores the anticipation for this remarkable vehicle, and it has the potential to disrupt the electric SUV landscape. By addressing common concerns of EV buyers, such as charging infrastructure and range, and by providing robust safety features and fast-charging capabilities, the Blazer EV positions itself as a game-changer. As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, Chevrolet’s commitment to innovation and quality shines through in the 2024 Blazer EV.