Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Jim Nelson
Insurance: A Front-Line Conversation In Real Estate
It wasn’t very long ago that homeowners insurance lived quietly in the background of a real estate transaction. It was assumed coverage would be available, reasonably priced, and relatively easy to secure. Buyers sometimes waited until the final days of escrow to secure a policy, confident it was little more than a procedural box to check before closing. Today, that reality has shifted dramatically.
Genesis G80 Prestige Sport Executive Luxury
In most automotive circles, mid-size sedans such as the Genesis G80 would be called ‘luxury’. Genesis prefers to call theirs ‘Executive’. Frankly we see both as appropriate for this vehicle. The Genesis G80 has undergone some styling changes, enhancements to technology and updated consumer convenience and comfort features for 2025 making it ever more desirable for the discriminating consumer.
2024 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid - More for Less
While many OEM’s have trimmed or cancelled their sedan models – moving to EV’s and SUV’s – Hyundai has continued to believe in sedan marketability and demand. Their latest iteration of the Sonata mid-size sedan is an excellent example of their effort to provide choices other than EV’s or SUV’s for the consumer. The 2024 Hyundai Sonata features four trim levels, two non- hybrid and two hybrid.
2024 Toyota Prius Iconic Small Car Value
The Toyota Prius Hybrid – for over 20 years has been an innovator and leader in small car hybrid technology coupled with frugal value and latest amenities. For 2024 the Toyota Prius Hybrid continues that iconic leadership – reliable, quick and frugal with all of the newest amenities available. AS TESTED We have tested Prius earlier generations and were delighted to get a 2024 Toyota Prius Limited AWD Hybrid for test recently for evaluation.
All New Mazda CX-70 Mid-Size Crossover Arrives
Mazda introduced their brand new 2025 CX-70 mid-size two-row crossover late this last spring. The CX-70 will offer seven different packages across three models to best fit the needs of an active customer base, says Mazda. Features include robust electrified powertrains, sporty design elements, handsome interiors, ‘just right’ technology and convenience plus innovative and generous cargo space. Couple that with affordable pricing – starting at $40,445 – the new CX-70 should get lots of attention.
New 2025 Lexus UX 300h Hybrid Performance with Economy
The new 2025 Lexus UX 300h luxury compact hybrid crossover replaces the previous UX 250h model featuring more power and amenities from a base model through a full complement of F Sport trims. The UX 300h is the first Lexus vehicle to be powered by the new fifth-gen hybrid system that delivers up to 196 horsepower with fuel economy of 43 mpg. Available in both FWD and AWD, its new hybrid transaxle and lightweight lithium-ion battery deliver a more responsive performance.
Volvo adds Black Edition to 2024 XC60 line
The Volvo XC60 has been a significant part of the Volvo line for several years. Available with gas and Plug-in-Hybrid (Recharge) powertrains, the consumer has become a favorite for consumers in search of value and performance in a mid-size SUV. For 2024, Volvo added a new variant – the Black Edition – to its XC60 Recharge (Hybrid) line. Based on the Top-of-the-Line Ultimate, the Black Edition enables discriminating Volvo discriminating buyers to make a bold styling statement as well.
Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature Nice Drive Nice Price
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offers eight trim levels – all AWD and starting at $29,300 – for small Crossover SUV buyers to consider. All are well equipped and a range of technology and driver convenience features plus a top package of safety elements. With their top trim Turbo Signature priced at just MSRP $40,600, the CX-5 is very affordable. AS TESTED Mazda loaned us a 2024 Mazda CX-5 2.5L Turbo Signature for drive testing in and around Hill Country Texas.
Sequoia Capstone - Gentle giant among SUVs
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia 4WD Capstone Hybridis the top-of-the-line model in their full-size three-row SUV offering. Already a very capable SUV, Toyota introduced Capstone last year to add a “luxury” trim level to the line. Built in San Antonio Texas on the same structure as the Toyota Tundra truck, it shares a number of components and features – most prominently its exterior styling, sturdy platform and innovative hybrid powertrain.
2024 Lexus RX 500h - F Sport Performance Hybrid Powertrain
The Lexus 2024 RX 500h F Sport Performance AWD skillfully integrates legendary RX styling and luxury with the rugged elements of F Sport performance to deliver a very capable mid-size hybrid SUV with broad appeal to discriminating buyers. In this age of electrification, we are closely following the continuing evolution of pure hybrid vehicles as an alternative to plug-in electric and all-electric vehicles still in development.
Genesis Electrifies the GV70 SUV
The 2024 Genesis Electrified GV70 is the EV version of the top trim levels of the popular and successful gasoline powered Genesis GV70. It shares all of the room, luxury, technology and convenience features with the addition of the performance and economy of a robust Electrified AWD powertrain. The Electrified GV70 AWD comes in two fully fitted out trim levels – Advanced (MSRP $65,850) and Prestige (MSRP $72,650). Both are AWD and share the same platforms and EV elements.
Lexus introduces RZ 450e Luxury BEV
Lexus introduced its first entry into the luxury battery electric vehicle (BEV) market in 2023 with the arrival of the all-new, all-electric Lexus RZ 450e luxury compact SUV. Already a solid player in the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and plug-in electric vehicle (PHEV) markets, Lexus has purpose-built the RZ 450e to deliver a new Lexus luxury and dynamic driving experience to the consumer. We recently got behind the wheel of a 2023 Lexus RZ 450e to see for ourselves.
Holiday gifting ideas from Mopar for auto enthusiasts
Our friends at Mopar once again have put forth a plethora of holiday gift ideas for automotive enthusiasts. One can find that perfect gift for their special person from the Mopar wide selection of memorable, holiday-themed apparel and merchandise this season. From the newly designed ugly holiday sweater to vintage muscle car tree ornaments to branded traveler mug sets, gift-giving this season just got easier.
2023 Volvo S60 Recharge a Thors Hammer in Stealth Black
Volvo recently sent us a 2023 S60 Recharge(Plug-in-Hybrid)for review.They told us to expect a ‘Black Edition”. Somehow, one does not expect a vehicle from the land of “Thors Hammer” to be all black, but it was. A stealthy Black on Black and then some. A bit surprising, but downright handsome and powerfully efficient too. AS TESTED Our 2023 Volvo S60 Recharge AWD Ultimate Black Edition hybrid was base priced MSRP $57,970.
RAV4 Choices include Prime plug-in Hybrid
When you are the #1 selling SUV in the U.S., you need to work harder year after year to stay there. Toyota – with its long running and best-selling RAV4 small SUV – has managed that by continuing to innovate and improve that vehicle’s capability, reliability and value year on year. Another factor has been their successful development and introduction of multiple and ever-better model and powertrain offerings within the RAV4 line-up.
Toyota Highlander gets grander for 2024
With over 3.3 million Toyota Highlanders sold in the U.S. – in this era of bigger is better – it is logical that Toyota would offer their loyal customer base an even grander version of the popular mid-size SUV. Designed and built in the U.S., the all new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has arrived and grander it is – three rows with seating up to 8, three powertrains including hybrid, available AWD and sporting the latest features.
Mazda steps up large SUVs with new CX-90
Mazda has joined the ranks of brands offering full-size SUVs with the introduction of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 three-row. Not wanting to just stick their toe in, they are offering this new model – replacing the CX-9 – with a whopping 11 different trim levels and three powertrain options including a hybrid. All of them are AWD and available in 8, 7 and 6 seat configurations. To borrow a phrase from that famous burger chain, you can have one “your way” – starting at just MSRP $39,595.
New 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid delivers 42 mpg and more
In 2021, Toyota added a new ‘dimension’ to the wildly popular Corolla line with the addition of the Corolla Cross gas model. We tested the 2022 Corolla Cross gas version a year or so ago and found it to be a really good value. A vehicle we would recommend. Now, for 2023, they have expanded the Corolla Cross offering to include a hybrid. Toyota – in our opinion – building the best hybrids available – offers the 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid in three trim levels.
Nimble 2024 Lexus NX 350h hybrid delivers
Back in 2022, Lexus reimagined and redesigned the second generation NX from the inside out adding models and trim levels for a more complete offering for the compact SUV (crossover) buyer. For 2024 Lexus fills out the lineup as part of their “Lexus Electrified” vision to include both hybrid and plug-in hybrid offering their NX ‘nimble crossover’ with four powertrains that now include two hybrid electric models. We admit we are partial to hybrids due to the improved fuel economy hybrid they offer.
New Toyota bZ4x is just the ticket for getting into the EV game
The 2023 Toyota bz4X is a brand-new Compact Crossover in the Toyota line-up. Toyota has purposely designed this vehicle to make use of as many of the familiar features and functions of both their internal combustion and hybrid powered vehicles, while introducing EV technology to their customer. The 2023 Toyota bZ4X offers a mix of new EV technology plus familiar practical features that a consumer – new to battery electric vehicles – may find easier to become comfortable with on a first EV.
Electrified Genesis G80 ranges 282 miles - recharges in 22 minutes
The 2023 Electrified G80 AWD is Genesis’ first EV model. The G80 – at the core of the Genesis sedan line-up – already regarded by many as a beautiful balance of athletic elegance and performance, was the perfect platform to introduce electrification to the Genesis buyer.
2023 Toyota bZ4X a great first EV for novice consumers
The 2023 Toyota bZ4X is a brand-new Compact Crossover in the Toyota line-up. Toyota has purposely designed this vehicle to make use of as many of the familiar features and functions of both their internal combustion and hybrid powered vehicles, while introducing EV technology to their customer. The 2023 Toyota bZ4X offers a mix of new EV technology plus familiar practical features that a consumer – new to battery electric vehicles – may find easier to become comfortable with on a first EV.
2023 Hyundai Santa Fe - Hybrid family fun and value
The Hyundai Santa Fe Mid-size SUV for 2023 continues to deliver robust family value adventure in a gorgeous yet rough and tumble package that drives with a refined confidence – around town, on the highway and into rugged back country as well. In recognition, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe has been honored with the 2023 Kelley Blue Book (KBB) Best Mid-Size Two-Row SUV award – the fourth year in a row it has won that honor.
2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Sport steps up
Available to Americans since 1976 and built in America for over 40 years, the Honda Accord has been a mainstay of the mid-size family sedan segment year after year. Perceived by many for years as that reliable, good value – but somewhat “vanilla” – sedan, the 2023 Accord steps out and steps up with new styling, power, technology and features that make it more than just “vanilla” anymore.
Homepage - Big Slide - In Wheel Time
And when we woke up, we had these bodies. They're like, except I'm having them! Oh, I think we should just stay friends. You'll...
Homepage - Magazine - In Wheel Time
The Terrain, and its cousin, the Chevy Equinox, have been huge hits for GM since their inception in 2010. The midsize CUV segment is...
Homepage - Sport - In Wheel Time
LATEST ARTICLES
2023 Ram 1500 Rebel and TRX Lunar Editions Announced
The Ram Truck brand today announced the exclusive new 2023 Ram 1500 Rebel and TRX Lunar Editions to join the light-duty lineup. The Ram 1500 Rebel and TRX Lunar editions – with a unique Ceramic Gray exterior color – offers customers another option for exterior and interior appointments and content. “Our passionate customers tell us their Ram trucks are an extension of their personality that allows them to stand out from the crowd.
Chevy ups the ante with new Trax in 2024
Chevrolet introduced a reimagined Trax this week — a new, technology-forward choice for customers seeking the practicality of a compact car and the utility of an SUV. Larger than today’s Trax, it provides more space for passengers and cargo, along with more standard and available content. A robust array of standard safety features and a suite of technologies will help keep customers connected, all at a starting MSRP of only $21,495.
2023 Ram 2500 Rebel introduced at State Fair of Texas
Ram today unveiled the new 2023 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty Rebel at the State Fair of Texas. This new model expands the brand’s heavy-duty lineup and offers a unique and exceptional combination of off-road performance without sacrificing towing and payload capabilities. The new 2023 Ram Heavy Duty Rebel, positioned between Laramie and Power Wagon, further fortifies Ram Trucks as North America’s off-road and performance truck leader.
Ram 1500 Built to Serve EMS Edition
Ram Truck today announced the second installment of its ‘Built to Serve’ limited-edition models geared towards first-responder services. Ram is honoring these heroes with a new 2023 Ram 1500 ‘Built to Serve’ Emergency Medical Service (EMS) model. This latest ‘Built to Serve’ model honors the frontline heroes who provide emergency medical services and save lives every day. Production of the Ram 1500 ‘Built to Serve’ EMS model will begin in the fourth quarter of 2022.
Over the top - 2023 Genesis G90 3.5T E Supercharger AWD
Following earlier test drives of the Genesis G70 Sport Sedan and G80 Mid-Size Luxury Sedan, we were given a ‘When you have tried the rest, time to try the best’ opportunity by Genesis with the arrival of a full-size G90 Luxury Sedan a week or two ago. Our test Genesis G90 E Supercharger AWD came in a stealthy ‘Hallasan Green’ exterior with a lavish ‘Glacier White on White’ interior.
2022 Lexus ES300h makes the case for affordable premium hybrid sedans
Good news America, high quality, smooth, refined and plush luxury sedans are very much alive and available. Lexus sent this week a top-of-the-line hybrid 2022 Lexus ES300h Ultra Lux for our drive and evaluation. While most everyone else is ditching higher end quality sedans in favor of SUV’s, crossovers and small trucks, Lexus continues to believe in and deliver high quality sedans.
2023 Mazda CX-50 crossover - a new compact SUV choice
Mazda joins the move to creating ‘outdoor look’ vehicles based on popular current models with the introduction for 2023 of their new Mazda CX-50 Crossover. Priced from MSRP $26,800 (basic) to MSRP $41,550, they offer ten trim levels and two AWD powertrain options for consumers to choose from. Mazda sent us a top-of-the-line 2023 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo w/Premium Plus AWD to drive for a week in and around Hill Country Texas.
Toyota very competitive with new 2022 Corolla Cross
Earlier this year we reported on the arrival of the new 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross. We told you that consumers looking for dependability, fuel efficiency, safety and value in a small car from Toyota – for over fifty years meant getting a Corolla. Originally offered as a sedan and then adding a hatchback a couple of years back, Toyota was touting the new Corolla Cross (starting at MSRP $22,445) as the new bold compact crossover you did not know you needed until now.
What’s not to like - 2022 Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 Inscription
It is no wonder to us that the Volvo XC60 mid-size luxury SUV has been their most popular model both in the United States and around the world. The unique Scandinavian timeless influence on the XC60’s exterior styling and design, coupled with a distinctive refined interior featuring the finest materials, latest technologies along with powerful and efficient powertrains – set a standard for mid-size SUV’s.
2022 Audi S5 Cabriolet Prestige checks all our boxes
Audi says that their 2022 S5 Cabriolet checks all of the boxes. They add it is an exceptional choice for those who want a luxury cabriolet with plenty of muscle. We’re not sure about others, but for us – the top trim Prestige checked all of our boxes and then some. A couple of weeks back, the folks at Audi dropped us a spanking new 2022 S5 Cabriolet Prestige at our home near Austin.
New Ram 1500 TRX Sandblast Edition arrives this Summer
Ram today announced it is expanding its light-duty lineup with the addition of the exclusive new 2022 Ram 1500 TRX Sandblast Edition, offering performance truck buyers an even wider selection of exterior and interior appointments and content.
New Woodland Edition to take RAV4 Hybrid off-roading in 2023
Toyota is taking the RAV4 Hybrid to a whole new level of adventure with the new 2023 Woodland Edition. Equipped with everything needed for an outdoor excursion, the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition is the first hybrid off-road special edition SUV for the brand. TRD-Tuned & Ready The new RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition is available in Midnight Black Metallic, Cavalry Blue and Ice Cap exterior colors.
Buick teases new Electra EV lineup revealing Wildcat EV concept
Buick this week unveiled the Wildcat EV concept — an expressive vision of the brand’s new design direction as it transitions to an all-electric future. The Wildcat was developed to convey the all-new design language that will influence Buick production models for the foreseeable future. Buick’s new tri-shield logo, mounted prominently on the body front and rear, symbolizes the design transformation and new production models will wear it starting next year.
Hot New Appearance for Dodge three-row muscle car - Durango R/T HEMI Orange
The Dodge brand has announced their 2022 Dodge Durango R/T three-row muscle car will sport a new color this summer – HEMI Orange. First introduced last year for the Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger, the popular appearance is now available for the Dodge Durango R/T HEMI Orange. “HEMI Orange is a hot option for the Dodge Challenger and Charger, and now we’re expanding its reach by offering the Dodge Durango R/T HEMI Orange,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand chief executive officer – Stellantis.
2023 Toyota 4Runner lineup features 40th Anniversary Special Edition
The Toyota 4Runner will reach the 40-year mark with the 2023 model year… and, to celebrate, Toyota is offering a distinctive 4WD-only 2023 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition. Appropriately, Toyota will make 4,040 of these special editions available for the U.S. market. Over the past four decades, 4Runner has amassed more than 4 million cumulative sales while carving out its place as the ready-for-anything SUV that’s equally at home on pavement or trail.
2023 Toyota Tacoma - segment leader gets better
The Toyota Tacoma – the mid-size truck sales leader for 17 years – expects to lead the field again in 2023 said Toyota when revealing some details of the lineup last week. Familiar faces returning to the 2023 Tacoma lineup include SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited TRD Pro plus the Trail Edition and Nightshade Edition. Customization and personalizing by owners of Tacoma trucks has been a key part of the Tacoma’s popularity and heritage.
Lexus LC500, Chrysler Pacifica and Hyundai IONIQ5 earn Vehicle of Year honors
The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) has announced the award winners of the 2022 TAWA Texas Auto Roundup April 24-28 in Fort Worth, Texas. Held at the legendary Texas Motor Speedway, TAWA members tested a total of 33 vehicles across several categories including a new category – Electric Vehicles (EV). Attending journalists evaluated the vehicles competing on exteriors, interiors, performance, value and overall personal appeal.
2022 Genesis G80 Sport AWD delivers both luxury and performance
A recent review of the entry level 2022 Genesis G70 sports sedan here at inwheeltime.com told you it was a great sports sedan you might not know about – but should. In addition, you should also know that it’s midsize sibling – the 2022 G80 AWD 3.5T Sport Prestige – is worth serious consideration as a premium sedan with a sporty flair. Already a very nice and capable midsize premium sedan, Genesis added a few more sporty tweaks to the G80 AWD 3.5T for 2022 – renaming it the G80 3.5T Sport.
Hyundai offers a darker shade of Santa Fe for 2022 - the new XRT
2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Hyundai expanded its 2022 Santa Fe line up this Spring with the addition of the more adventurous looking XRT . Spoiler Alert: More adventure look, but not anymore adventure capability. Still, for some folks, the ‘look’ is plenty good enough. And, in fact, the 2022 Santa Fe with HTRAC AWD is pretty capable enough.
Genesis G70 a great sports sedan you might not know - but should
2022 Genesis G70 Sports Prestige RWD Genesis – formerly a model line in the Hyundai brand – has been a stand alone brand for a couple years now. For a large share of the entry level sports sedan market, it has remained relatively unknown. Based on our recent test drives, we submit that the refreshed 2022 Genesis G70 Compact Sport Sedan is well-worthy of consideration if you want a premium-fitted and performance-biased sport sedan as your ride of choice.
Miata MX-5 Grand Touring for 2022 an even better choice in two-seaters
2022 Mazda Miata MX-5 Roadster As we have noted in years past, if you are looking for a two-seat convertible roadster full of performance focused fun – that is also affordable – your choices continue limited in today’s marketplace. Fortunately, the folks at Mazda still offer their iconic Miata MX-5 two-seat soft-top convertible roadster with rear-wheel drive and 6-speed manual shift full of performance fun and affordable as well.
Best ever 2022 Honda Civic Si features stick shift standard
2022 Honda Civic Si in Blazing Orange Pearl Since its introduction 35 years ago, Honda Civic Si has offered young driving enthusiasts an affordable, high-performances sport compact. For 2022 Honda delivers a freshly designed Si for a new generation of driving enthusiasts. Featuring new styling, more dynamic performance and (what Honda calls) a more engaging driving character – the Civic Si was just named an ‘Editor’s Choice’ by Car and Driver magazine.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Jim
Contact Jim, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack