Clanging Bell

2020 Nissan Versa — Sensible pick as a starter car

By Russ Heaps
Clanging Bell

(February 3, 2020) Better than the preceding Versa generations, the 2020 Nissan Versa is a more rounded, better looking small sedan than its predecessors. I'm going to make a statement that, if applied to almost any other area of our culture, would be called bigoted by some. But, hey, I'm a journalistic hero, so here goes, some cars are simply more fun to write about than others. It may not be science, but it's a fact.

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI — A sports sedan bargain

By Russ Heaps
Clanging Bell

(August 8, 2019) On the hunt for a sporty sedan? You can do much worse than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI. In fact, with its zippy turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and stir-your-own-transmission 6-speed manual, it's a downright blast to drive. Think of it as a Golf GTI in more conservative attire.

2018 Buick Regal GS — Replanting Buick's flag in performance arena

By Russ Heaps
Clanging Bell

(November 4, 2018) “That's not a Buick,” were the first words about the 2018 Buick Regal GS out of the mouth of one of the valets at my favorite downtown hangout as he waved the key fob at me. “I had to look around for a minute to find it. I never believed those commercials,” he continued referring to Buick's current TV campaign with people unable to identify the brand's vehicles. “But they are dead on!”

Volkswagen Atlas is perfect for the chores of life

By Russ Heaps
MotorwayAmerica.com

(September 24, 2018) There is nothing terribly glamorous about the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. It exhibits the two-box design typical of crossovers and SUVs. The emphasis being on “box.” But, don't let the uninspired styling lull you into thinking it's a boring vehicle to drive. That's simply not the case. Its driving dynamics are engaging and, although it's a crossover, “Utility” is its middle name.