Aston Martin V8 Vantage (2006-17)

This isn't the newest Aston Martin Vantage but is the previous-gen model. It was introduced as an entry-level model into the Aston Martin lineup back in 2005. The 2000's Vantage offered two ranges of V8 and V12 models, but the main focus of this post is on the V8 model. Early model-year V8 Vantages featured a 4.3-liter V8 producing 380 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque, hitting 60 mph from a standstill in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 175 mph. Later model-year V8 Vantages upgraded to a 4.7-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual and 6-speed Sportshift semi-automatic were available with the V8 Vantage, while a 7-speed Sportshift II semi-automatic replaced the latter transmission in later model-year V8 Vantages. Its interior appears simplistic and functional while still having a premium feel to it. On the secondhand market, the average V8 Vantage sells for as low as the upper $20,000s and as high as the low $100,000s, making for a great value among sports cars. Overall, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a beautiful car that is comfortable and spacious enough to be driven daily and has the performance and capability to be pushed to its limits on a racetrack or mountain road.

Jaguar I-Pace

For several decades, Jaguar was best known for its sports cars and luxury sedans. Due to a market shifting toward SUVs and crossovers, Jaguar now has three crossovers in its portfolio: the F-Pace, E-Pace, and I-Pace. The I-Pace, featured in this post, is Jaguar's first fully-electric vehicle and aimed at the likes of the Tesla Model X. It is powered by a 90 kWh battery producing 394 horsepower and 512 lb-ft of torque, boasting a 234-mile range. The I-Pace travels from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and is offered in three trim levels: S, HS, and HSE. As expected from a premium electric crossover, the I-Pace contains loads of technology and a significant amount of space and comfort. Pricing for Jaguar's electric crossover starts at around $70k. In related news, Audi's entrant into the electric crossover segment, the e-Tron, is available now, and Mercedes-Benz's electric crossover, the EQC, will go on sale sometime next year. Back to the I-Pace, it is a great car with amazing styling and features, but the Tesla Model X remains the gold standard for electric crossovers and SUVs.

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