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Miami Beach served as the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary experience: test driving the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre. This adventure was not just about the car but also about sharing an unforgettable time with my brother, exploring the city in a vehicle that is a symbol of luxury and innovation. The Spectre represents a new era for Rolls-Royce and we were lucky to be part of it.

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What’s New?

The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre is a groundbreaking model that marks the brand’s first all-electric vehicle, showcasing a commitment to a sustainable future without compromising on luxury or performance. This model introduces advanced electric powertrain technology, ensuring a silent, smooth, and powerful drive. With its aerodynamic design, state-of-the-art features, and bespoke craftsmanship, the Spectre is set to redefine the luxury automotive market.

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Exterior Elegance

The Spectre’s exterior is a blend of timeless elegance and design. Painted in Chartreuse, the vehicle immediately captures attention. Chartreuse, a vivid shade replicating the green tones found in the French herbal liqueur of the same name, is a never-before-seen exterior color option that adds a distinctive and sophisticated touch to the Spectre. The hue boasts a unique vibrancy that changes under different lighting conditions, creating a dynamic visual effect that enhances the vehicle’s presence on the road.

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Key design elements include the 23″ 7 Spoke Part-Polished Wheels, which add a touch of sophistication and grandeur, and the illuminated grille and treadplates, with 22 LEDs providing a mesmerizing first impression while enhancing the car’s luxurious appeal.

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The redesigned Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, now with a lower stance for improved aerodynamics, embodies the spirit of the vehicle. Additionally, the seamless roofline and split headlights enhance the vehicle’s sleek profile, contributing to its impressive drag coefficient of just 0.25.

Range and Charging Options

The Rolls-Royce Spectre offers an impressive range of 500-530 km (311-329 miles) on a single charge, making it ideal for both city driving and longer journeys. To ensure seamless and efficient charging, Rolls-Royce provides bespoke home charging units. These home chargers can fully charge the vehicle in about 10 hours and 45 minutes using an 11 kW AC charger”‹.

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For those needing faster charging options, the Spectre is compatible with numerous public EV charging stations that support Level 2 and Level 3 DC fast chargers. With a DC fast charger, the Spectre can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes, achieving a maximum charging power of 195 kW and adding up to 540 km of range per hour”‹.

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In Miami Beach, EV chargers are conveniently located at many luxury hotels, resorts, and shopping centers, providing easy access to charging while enjoying the city’s amenities. These locations typically offer Level 2 chargers, suitable for overnight or extended parking

On the Road

Driving the Spectre through Miami Beach was an experience in ultimate luxury and effortless power. The electric motor’s quietness, combined with the opulent interior, provided a sanctuary from the city’s hustle and bustle. The car’s whisper-quiet electric powertrain enhances the serene atmosphere, allowing drivers and passengers to enjoy the gentle hum of ocean waves and the vibrant city sounds in an almost surreal silence.

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Performance

Underneath its luxurious facade, the Spectre delivers impressive performance capabilities that match its opulent design. This electric vehicle offers a smooth and silent drive thanks to its powerful electric powertrain, which provides instant torque. This allows the Spectre to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph.

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The Spectre’s dimensions contribute to its commanding presence on the road. It measures 5475 mm in length, 2017 mm in width, and 1573 mm in height, with a generous wheelbase of 3210 mm. The turning circle of 12.7 meters ensures maneuverability despite its large size.

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Powering the Spectre are two electric motors: the front motor generates 190 kW of power and 365 Nm of torque, while the rear motor produces 360 kW and 710 Nm of torque. Combined, these motors deliver a total power output of 430 kW (equivalent to 584 horsepower) and a substantial torque of 900 Nm. This impressive technical setup ensures that the Spectre offers both thrilling performance and the refined driving experience expected from a luxury vehicle.

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A Drive Through Miami

South Beach, the iconic palm-lined boulevard epitomizing Miami’s allure, became the perfect stage for our Rolls-Royce Spectre. The Spectre’s nimble handling and precision four-wheel steering transformed our drive into a seamless ballet, allowing us to weave through traffic with effortless grace. As we glided past, pedestrians and drivers alike were compelled to pause, their gazes inevitably drawn to the car’s unmistakable presence–a testament to its striking elegance and commanding aura. The Spectre, in all its glory, left an indelible mark on everyone who witnessed its passage, a true symbol of automotive excellence amidst the vibrant Miami backdrop.

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Next, we ventured to the Art Deco Historic District, where the Rolls-Royce Spectre seamlessly melded with the vibrant architectural splendor of Miami’s past. The Spectre’s legacy of luxury and innovation was perfectly at home amidst the pastel hues and intricate geometric patterns of the 1930s buildings. Its advanced suspension system, which decouples the anti-roll bars on straight roads, provided an unparalleled, magic carpet-like ride, while the Planar Suspension System adapted effortlessly to the cobblestone streets, ensuring supreme comfort. This journey through the historic district became more than a drive; it was a harmonious blend of automotive excellence and architectural beauty, translating into an experience that celebrated both the heritage of the car and the timeless charm of its surroundings.

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Interior Opulence

The interior of the Spectre is a masterpiece of bespoke luxury, featuring high-quality materials such as real wood veneers, sumptuous leather, and customizable ambient lighting, all of which create an environment of unparalleled elegance.

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The primary color scheme of Black with a secondary accent of Chartreuse adds a striking visual contrast, while the Open Pore Blackwood veneer contributes a touch of sophistication. Ventilated massage seats and a heated passenger surround ensure maximum comfort, and contrast seat piping and stitching in Chartreuse enhance the interior aesthetics. Additionally, the bespoke audio system provides an immersive sound experience, further elevating the Spectre’s luxurious ambiance.

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Advanced Technology and Safety

Driving towards Brickell, we delved into the Spectre’s advanced technology. The SPIRIT digital architecture seamlessly integrated with Rolls-Royce’s Whispers app, allowing us to control various functions remotely. The advanced driver assistance systems added an extra layer of safety, making our city journey both secure and enjoyable.

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Conclusion

Since its inception, Rolls-Royce has epitomized automotive luxury and excellence. From the early days of the Silver Ghost to the iconic Phantom, the brand has set the standard for opulence and craftsmanship. Each model released symbolized status, wealth, and meticulous attention to detail.

Today, driving the Rolls-Royce Spectre in Miami Beach perfectly encapsulates its essence. The Spectre’s silent elegance commands attention, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with timeless luxury. It is not merely a mode of transport but a statement of success and refined taste.

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The Rolls-Royce Spectre represents a bold step into the future of automotive luxury. In a world increasingly driven by sustainability and innovation, it stands as a guiding light of what is possible when tradition meets modernity. This electric marvel promises a future where luxury and sustainability coexist harmoniously.

My brother and I feel privileged to be part of this experience. To our esteemed clients and admirers, your support and discerning taste drive us to push the boundaries of excellence. The Spectre is our homage to your sophisticated aspirations, heralding a future where luxury and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony.

In conclusion, the Spectre honors Rolls-Royce’s rich heritage while embracing a sustainable, luxurious future.

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TEST DRIVES

Lamborghini prepares multiple launches for 2026 as electrification plans continue

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Following a record-breaking year for revenue and deliveries, Lamborghini is set to introduce new models in 2026 while continuing work on its first fully electric vehicle.

Lamborghini is heading into 2026 with strong momentum after posting the best financial results in its history. The Italian automaker generated €3.2 billion in revenue and delivered a record 10,747 vehicles in 2025, reinforcing its position as one of the most successful luxury performance brands in the world.

With demand remaining strong across key markets such as the United States, Lamborghini is now preparing a series of new product launches that will further expand its lineup and strengthen its global presence.

Lamborghini recorded its best year ever in 2025, delivering more than 10,700 vehicles worldwide.

New Lamborghini models are coming this year

The company has confirmed that several new products will debut during 2026, including unveilings at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July and Monterey Car Week in California during August.

While Lamborghini has not disclosed exactly which vehicles will be revealed, the new additions are expected to be derivatives of existing models rather than entirely new nameplates.

One of the strongest possibilities is a new version of the Revuelto. Since the V12 flagship entered production nearly three years ago, many enthusiasts have been waiting for a roadster variant to join the lineup.

At the same time, Lamborghini could introduce a more performance-focused version of the Urus SE, further expanding the appeal of its best-selling SUV.

New Lamborghini models are expected to debut at Goodwood and Monterey Car Week during 2026.

The future remains electrified

Although Lamborghini has postponed some of its original electric vehicle plans, the company insists that a fully electric model remains part of its long-term strategy.

The Lanzador EV project has evolved into a future plug-in hybrid model, while the next-generation Urus is now expected to arrive later in the decade with a hybrid powertrain instead of a fully electric setup.

In the meantime, Lamborghini continues to focus on hybrid technology across its lineup. The Revuelto, Temerario and Urus SE already represent the brand’s transition toward electrification without sacrificing the performance characteristics that define Lamborghini vehicles.

Executives have also confirmed that a fourth hybrid model is in development, highlighting the company’s commitment to balancing sustainability with high-performance engineering.

Lamborghini remains committed to launching its first fully electric vehicle later this decade.

Strong demand in the United States

The United States continues to be one of Lamborghini’s most important markets and will play a major role in the success of the company’s upcoming launches.

Events such as Monterey Car Week provide the perfect stage for Lamborghini to showcase new products to one of the world’s largest concentrations of luxury and exotic car buyers.

As the brand enters another year of growth, 2026 is shaping up to be one of Lamborghini’s busiest product years in recent memory, with new variants, expanded hybrid technology and the promise of an electric future still on the horizon.

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TEST DRIVES

2026 Subaru Outback Touring

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Some vehicles are designed to impress during a test drive. Others earn their reputation after years of ownership.The Subaru Outback has long belonged in the second category.

For decades, it has attracted buyers who value reliability, practicality, and all-weather confidence over flashy styling or trendy marketing. While many manufacturers continue to blur the line between SUVs and crossovers, the Outback has quietly stayed true to its original mission: providing a versatile vehicle that can handle everyday life just as easily as weekend adventures.

After taking a closer look at the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring, it’s easy to understand why so many owners remain loyal to the nameplate year after year.

A Design That Prioritizes Function

The Outback has never been a vehicle that relies on dramatic styling to grab attention, and that’s part of its appeal.

Rather than chasing automotive fashion trends, Subaru has focused on creating a vehicle that looks purposeful. The wagon-inspired profile continues to offer practical advantages, including easier cargo loading and a lower center of gravity than many traditional SUVs.

Finished in Sapphire Blue Pearl, the Touring trim adds a touch of sophistication while maintaining the rugged character buyers expect from an Outback. It looks equally at home in a suburban driveway, a mountain town parking lot, or at a campsite miles from pavement.

There’s an honesty to the design that many competitors lack.

It doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not.

Confidence Comes Standard

One of the biggest reasons people shop for an Outback is confidence in all types of weather and road conditions.

That confidence starts with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which remains standard equipment across the lineup.

Unlike some competitors that reserve all-wheel drive for higher trims or optional packages, Subaru includes it as part of the Outback’s core identity. Whether facing heavy rain, snowy highways, gravel roads, or muddy trails, the vehicle feels prepared for conditions that might make other crossovers hesitate.

Power comes from Subaru’s well-established 2.5-liter BOXER four-cylinder engine paired with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. While the powertrain isn’t designed to deliver sports-car acceleration, it provides smooth and predictable performance that suits the Outback’s mission.

What matters most is the confidence it inspires during everyday driving.

The Outback feels stable, composed, and reassuring, qualities that become increasingly important during long-distance travel or difficult weather conditions.

Another advantage is ground clearance.

With 8.7 inches between the vehicle and the ground, the Outback offers more off-pavement capability than many compact and midsize SUVs. For drivers who regularly encounter dirt roads, trailheads, snow-covered routes, or rough campsites, that extra clearance can make a meaningful difference.

One of the Most Comfortable Interiors in Its Class

The Touring trim represents the most refined version of the Outback, and the cabin reflects that.

Subaru has focused on comfort rather than unnecessary extravagance, creating an interior that feels welcoming and practical while still delivering a premium experience.

Nappa leather upholstery immediately elevates the cabin, while heated and ventilated front seats help maintain comfort throughout changing seasons. Heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel further enhance the experience for passengers.

What stands out most, however, is the overall seat comfort.

Long-distance travelers know that supportive seating matters more than flashy design details, and the Outback excels in this area. The seats provide excellent support for extended drives, making the vehicle particularly appealing to road-trip enthusiasts and families who spend significant time behind the wheel.

It’s the kind of comfort you appreciate more after four hours on the highway than during five minutes in a dealership showroom.

Technology That Enhances Daily Driving

Modern buyers expect advanced technology, and the Touring trim delivers a comprehensive package.

The centerpiece of the cabin is Subaru’s large 12.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Together, they create a modern and easy-to-use driving environment.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, eliminating the need for cables during daily commutes. Wireless charging adds additional convenience, while the Harman Kardon premium audio system provides excellent sound quality for music, podcasts, and long road trips.

The technology feels integrated into the driving experience rather than overwhelming it.

That’s an increasingly rare quality in today’s market.

Safety Remains a Core Strength

Safety has always been one of Subaru’s strongest selling points, and the 2026 Outback Touring continues that tradition.

The latest version of Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology includes a wide range of active safety and driver-assistance systems designed to reduce stress and improve awareness on the road.

Features such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Reverse Automatic Braking, and Driver Monitoring Technology all work together to create a comprehensive safety package.

For families, commuters, and long-distance travelers, these systems provide an additional layer of confidence without feeling intrusive.

It’s one of the most complete collections of standard safety technology available in the segment.

Fuel Economy That Makes Sense

Practicality remains one of the Outback’s defining characteristics, and fuel efficiency is part of that equation.

EPA estimates rate the 2026 Outback Touring at 25 mpg in city driving, 31 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined.

Those numbers are particularly impressive considering the vehicle’s standard all-wheel-drive system and generous ground clearance.

For buyers who regularly commute during the week but also enjoy road trips and outdoor adventures, the Outback strikes an effective balance between capability and efficiency.

Ownership costs remain reasonable, which is one reason the Outback continues to appeal to long-term owners.

Is the Touring Trim Worth It?

With an MSRP of $46,845 including destination charges, the Touring trim sits near the top of the Outback lineup.

That price places it in direct competition with many well-equipped crossovers and entry-level luxury SUVs.

The difference is that the Outback delivers its value in a unique way.

Rather than focusing on prestige or performance, Subaru invests in comfort, safety, capability, and practicality. Buyers receive virtually every premium feature available in the Outback range while retaining the versatility that has made the model successful for decades.

For drivers who plan to keep their vehicle for years and use it regularly for travel, family transportation, and outdoor recreation, the Touring trim makes a compelling case.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring isn’t trying to be the fastest vehicle in its class.

It’s not trying to be the flashiest, either.

Instead, it focuses on doing countless everyday tasks exceptionally well.

It offers the comfort needed for long road trips, the capability required for changing weather and rough roads, the safety technology families want, and the practicality that active lifestyles demand.

In a market filled with vehicles that often prioritize style over substance, the Outback continues to succeed because it understands what many buyers actually need.

That’s why it remains one of the most trusted and respected vehicles in its category.

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TEST DRIVES

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD

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For years, buying a pickup truck often meant making compromises. You gained cargo capacity and towing power, but you also accepted a larger footprint, a stiffer ride, and fuel economy that wasn’t always ideal for daily commuting.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz takes a different approach

Instead of trying to compete with traditional midsize and full-size pickups, Hyundai has created something that sits comfortably between an SUV and a truck. After spending time with the Santa Cruz Limited AWD, it’s easy to understand why it continues to attract buyers who want versatility without committing to a conventional pickup.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

The Santa Cruz isn’t designed for construction sites or heavy-duty workloads. What it does offer is a practical solution for people who need occasional truck capability while still wanting the comfort, technology, and drivability of a modern crossover.

Performance That Exceeds Expectations

Under the hood, the Limited trim comes equipped with Hyundai’s turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 281 horsepower. Power is sent through an 8-speed automatic transmission, while Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system comes standard.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

On paper, those specifications look strong for a compact pickup. Behind the wheel, they feel even more impressive.

Acceleration is quick and confident. Whether merging onto a busy interstate, navigating mountain roads, or passing slower vehicles on a two-lane highway, the Santa Cruz responds immediately when called upon. There is no sense of hesitation or struggle that sometimes accompanies smaller trucks.

The turbocharged engine delivers power smoothly, making the vehicle feel more energetic than many first-time shoppers expect.

For buyers wondering whether they’ll have enough power for everyday driving, the answer is an easy yes.

Does It Feel Like a Pickup Truck?

One of the most common questions potential buyers ask is whether the Santa Cruz drives like a traditional truck.

The simple answer is no.

And for many shoppers, that’s exactly the point.

The Santa Cruz shares much of its DNA with Hyundai’s SUV lineup, and that becomes apparent almost immediately. Steering feels precise and predictable. The suspension does a good job absorbing rough pavement, and the overall driving experience feels composed and refined.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

Parking lots, tight city streets, and crowded shopping centers are areas where the Santa Cruz shines. Unlike larger pickups that can sometimes feel cumbersome in everyday situations, the Hyundai remains easy to maneuver and surprisingly approachable.

Drivers transitioning from an SUV will likely feel comfortable within minutes.

For commuters who spend most of their week navigating traffic and urban environments, that everyday usability becomes one of the Santa Cruz’s biggest advantages.

Interior Quality Impresses

Step inside the Limited trim, and it’s clear Hyundai wanted to elevate the experience beyond what buyers might expect from a compact pickup.

The cabin feels modern, upscale, and thoughtfully designed.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

Leather seating surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, a fully digital instrument cluster, integrated navigation, wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless charging, and Hyundai’s Digital Key system all contribute to a premium atmosphere.

The available Bose premium audio system delivers strong sound quality, while the overall fit and finish throughout the cabin reflects the attention Hyundai has invested in recent years.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

Nothing feels cheap or out of place.

In fact, buyers cross-shopping upscale compact SUVs may be surprised by just how refined the Santa Cruz feels once they get behind the wheel.

Practical Utility Without the Bulk

A truck ultimately needs to provide utility, and the Santa Cruz offers enough capability for the vast majority of lifestyle-focused buyers.

The bed may not be as large as those found in traditional pickups, but it has been designed intelligently.

Features such as the lockable integrated tonneau cover, under-bed storage compartment, cargo management rails, bed lighting, and a 115-volt power outlet add genuine functionality. These features make it easier to transport tools, bicycles, camping equipment, gardening supplies, or weekend adventure gear.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

For many owners, that’s exactly the type of flexibility they’re looking for.

Can it handle serious truck tasks?

To a reasonable extent, yes.

When properly equipped, the turbocharged Santa Cruz can tow up to 5,000 pounds. That opens the door for towing small boats, personal watercraft, utility trailers, lightweight campers, and recreational equipment without issue.

While dedicated towing enthusiasts may still prefer a larger pickup, most recreational users will find the Santa Cruz more than capable.

Fuel Economy and Ownership Considerations

The turbocharged Limited AWD prioritizes performance over maximum efficiency, but fuel economy remains competitive for the segment.

EPA estimates are rated at 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

Those numbers won’t set any records, but they strike a reasonable balance considering the available horsepower and standard all-wheel-drive system.

Another factor worth considering is Hyundai’s warranty coverage, which continues to be among the strongest in the industry. For buyers planning long-term ownership, that additional peace of mind adds meaningful value.

Is It Worth the Price?

With a tested price of approximately $45,185, the Santa Cruz Limited AWD enters territory occupied by well-equipped SUVs and some traditional pickup trucks.

That naturally raises the question: Is it worth it?

For the right buyer, absolutely.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

The Santa Cruz delivers a combination of comfort, technology, utility, performance, and ease of use that few vehicles currently offer. It fills a niche that many consumers didn’t realize existed until they experienced it firsthand.

Rather than trying to be the biggest truck or the most capable workhorse, it focuses on being exceptionally good at the tasks most owners encounter every day.

That’s a different value proposition, and one that makes a lot of sense in today’s market.

Final Verdict

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD isn’t built for buyers who need a heavy-duty pickup capable of handling demanding commercial work.

Instead, it’s designed for people whose lives require flexibility.

2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Limited AWD parked outdoors showcasing exterior design, truck bed, and modern styling

It’s a vehicle that can comfortably handle the daily commute, haul home improvement supplies on the weekend, carry outdoor gear for a camping trip, and still provide the comfort and technology expected from a modern crossover.

For many consumers, that balance may be more valuable than maximum towing figures or oversized dimensions.

The Santa Cruz continues to prove that not everyone needs a traditional pickup truck. Sometimes, the right amount of truck is exactly enough.

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