Whitney Nic James

Navigation
  • Home
  • About
  • Style
    • WNJ Style
    • Thrifted Style
    • Personal Style Linkup
    • Thrifty Friends
  • Inspiration
    • #WNJInspired
    • #WNJSocial & Blogging
    • Healthy Living
  • Lifestyle
    • Gift Guides
    • Events
      • Columbia & Baltimore
      • DC & Northern VA
      • Non-Local
    • WNJ Eats
    • WNJ Travels
  • Thrift With Nic!
    • Meetups
    • #TWNTour
  • Contact

Search Results for: #WNJDrives

#WNJDrives | 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE

October 12, 2016 by Whitney 2 Comments

As you know, I had the pleasure of test driving several cars over the summer. The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE is the last car I tested during Summer 2017 and to my surprise, I enjoyed driving it! My first reaction was, “WOW. That’s a small car.” I wasn’t sure how I felt about the size, but I quickly got over that once I saw/heard about the features. And the size actually came in handy when trying to find a parking spot.

* See Also, 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

how-to-live-in-your-season-stay-inspired-2

Not only was I impressed with the Apple CarPlay feature, but I also appreciated the Bluetooth hands-free feature with steering wheel controls. I’m in the car A LOT during the week for work, as well as for my own personal activities. So being able to safely talk while driving it necessary. I thought the inside would feel a little tight, due to the fact that the car is so compact, but I was wrong. The inside has plenty of room. My passengers didn’t complain either; they all rode very comfortably. Here are some of my other favorite features:

– Bluetooth Hands-Free with Steering Wheel Controls 

– 6.5” Display Audio with Smartphone Link 

– Push Button Start/Stop Engine Switch

– Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

– Power Windows & Door Locks

– Steering Wheel Audio Controls 

– Child Safety Rear Door Locks

– Rearview Camera System 

– 12 Volt Accessory Outlet 

– Front Seat Heater 

– Fog Lights

* See Also, 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage

mitsubishi-mirage-g4

The one thing that irritated me a bit was having to open the glove compartment to hook up my phone. I mean, you don’t have to use the cord if you don’t want to use certain features, but I did. I found a way to close the glove compartment and still have my phone plugged up. It worked for the week, but what if I had to do that everyday? Can you imagine the wear and tear that might have on the cord? But hey, that was my only complaint. Nothing’s perfect, right?

Check out this review on the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE. #wnjdrives

Click To Tweet

This list price for the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE is $17,830.00. Talk about affordable! It’s perfect for those who want a compact car with a lot of trunk space. My 14-year-old sister actually asked our parents if she could get this as her first car. She said it was cute, affordable, safe and perfect for teens! I have to agree. It really is the perfect car for a younger demographic. You can get about 37 MPG which is approximately 2.7 gallons per 100 miles. If you’re only driving to and from work/or school, you’ll be just fine. If you’re always on the go (like me) and do a lot of car traveling on a daily basis, you might want to consider another option.

mitsubishi-mirage-g4-se

mitsubishi-mirage-g4


So tell me, what do you think about the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

* Drive Shop USA provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Drive Shop

#WNJDrives | 2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco

September 27, 2016 by Whitney 2 Comments

A few months back I test drove the 2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco for a week. When the cute and compact car pulled up I was all smiles. From its red exterior to the sleek body, I was ready to hop in and start driving! Once inside I was equally impressed with the cream interior, huge touchscreen and spacious backseat.

* See Also: 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited Review

2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco

During my time with the car I enjoyed being able listen to my morning podcasts on the way to work, as well as my many iTunes playlists. Like the other cars I’ve recently tested, the Hyundai Elantra Eco was equipped with Apple CarPlay. I love this feature and I’m glad to see that it’s becoming the norm for so many of the newer car models. Receiving and sending messages while driving was extremely safe and hassle free, thanks to Apply CarPlay. Check out some of the other feature below!

– Leather Steering Wheel with Audio & Cruise Control 

– Front, Front Side Impact & Side Curtain Airbags

– Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System

– Touchscreen Display Audio System 

– Android Auto & Apple CarPlay

– Hands-free Smart Trunk

– Blind Spot Detection

– Heated Front Seats

– Rear-view Camera 

– SiriusXM Radio

Check out this review on the 2017 @Hyundai Elantra Eco! #wnjdrives

Click To Tweet

2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco

2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco

I also made a Target run while test driving the car. I was able to pack in quite a bit, plus a few extra goodies from the grocery store, thanks to the spacious trunk! The rear-view camera came in handy as well while maneuvering in and out of the parking lot(s). The Hyundai Elantra Eco also provided plenty of space to hold drinks, as well as your cellphone while driving. I don’t like holding my phone in my lap while driving or having to put it in the passengers seat next to me. Having a specific area to place my phone and drinks was very convenient. 

2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco

2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco


So tell me, have you ever driven the 2017 Hyundai Elantra Eco? After reading the review, what do you think? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

* Drive Shop USA provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Car Review, Drive Shop, Hyundai

#WNJDrives | 2017 Kia Sportage SX Review

July 29, 2016 by Whitney 3 Comments

All summer long I’ve been test driving some pretty awesome cars! My latest test drive was with the 2017 Kia Sportage SX. I feel like each time I drive a Kia I want one even more! This time was no different; I truly enjoyed my week with the this midsize beauty. I mean just by looking at this car I fell in love! Body-wise it’s incredibly sleek and the color is perfection!

* See Also: 2016 Kia Sorento Review

Kia Sportage 2017

2017 Kia Sportage

2017 Kia Sportage

The Sportage SX dives very well and has a slight luxurious feel once inside. For a while, I forgot I was driving a Kia! For the most part just my husband and I rode in the car, but there was room in the backseat for 3 more passengers. The trunk also has plenty of room for storage, which came in handy on grocery shopping day. I also enjoyed riding with the the panoramic sunroof open. Check out some more features:

– Lane Departure Warning & Automated Emergency Braking

– Dual Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags

– Heated & Cooled Leather Front Seats

– Handsfree/Bluetooth Capability

– Audio Controls on Steering Wheel

– Touchscreen Display Screen

– Daytime Running Lights

– Blind Spot Detection

– Panoramic Sunroof

– Rearview Camera

* See Also: 2016 Kia Optima Review

I must say that I appreciated the Blind Spot Detection feature. Granted I’m a safe driver, but it’s quite the necessary feature for someone like me who drives on the highway quite often. Because of the size, I can see the 2017 Kia Sportage SX being purchased and driven as a family car. I can definitely see this being one of the cars on our list when hubs and I have a baby.

Kia Sportage SX 2017

2017 Kia Sportage SX

2017 Kia Sportage SX

Even if you don’t have children the Sportage SX is a great choice for those who don’t want a big truck, but crave the space and feel of an SUV. Like an SUV, this car is sturdy, safe and spacious. Unlike (some) SUV’s, this car is much easier to maneuver in and out of parking spaces. For me, that was a definite plus!


So tell me, what do you think about the 2017 Kia Sportage SX? Let me know! 

As always, thanks so much for reading and commenting. Until next week, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

* Drive Shop USA provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own.*

 

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Auto Review, Drive Shop, Kia

#WNJDrives | 2017 Hyundai Elantra Review

June 17, 2016 by Whitney 8 Comments

A few weeks ago I had to chance to test drive the 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited. My first reaction to this compact sports-like car was, “WOW!” I was thoroughly impressed with the sleek design, shiny wheels and overall chic exterior. Siting inside the car I was even more impressed! From the soft leather trimmed seats to the modern dashboard, the interior was superb. And although the car is compact, there’s much more room on the inside than I expected.

* See Also: 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited Review

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

2017-hyundai-elantra-interior

Photo Credit

During the week I drove to and from work here in Columbia, as well as in and around D.C. and Baltimore for work purposes. All week the gas gauge stayed steady and I didn’t have to fill it up once. Of course I had to test the sound system as soon as I got it, which by the way was exceptional! Whenever I’m able to listen to music, podcasts and audio-books on the go, I’m a happy girl!  

* See Also: 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Review 

Check out this review on the chic and compact 2017 @Hyundai Elantra Limited! #wnjdrives

Click To Tweet

The one feature I was very impressed with was Apple CarPlay. By plugging up your iPhone to the car, this feature literally takes what’s on your iPhone screen and puts it on the built-in touchscreen display right in front of you. While focusing on the road you can ask Siri for directions, make calls, send and receive texts and of course, listen to music.

img_4986.jpg

2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited

This car is perfect for college students, young professionals and even families because of its safe and modern features. Check out some of the other noteworthy features:

– Blind Spot Detection System with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

– Leather Trimmed Steering Wheel & Shift Nob 

– Bluetooth Hands-free capabilities

– Apple CarPlay OR Andriod Auto

– Heated Front & Rear Seats 

– Steering Wheel Controls

– Hands-Free Smart Trunk

– 7 inch Color Touchscreen 

– Rear-view Camera

– Sirius XM & HD Radio


So tell me, what do you think about the 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited? Let me know! 

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Facebook // Twitter // Newsletter

* Drive Shop USA provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Car Review, Drive Shop, Hyundai

#WNJDrives | 2016 Mazda CX-5 Car Review

May 13, 2016 by Whitney 2 Comments

I don’t know about you, but I am SO happy it’s the weekend! The dreary weather we’ve been experiencing here in Maryland has put a slight damper on my mood, which has made me extremely tired lately. It’s literally been grey skies and rain for weeks, with a few peaks of sunshine here and there. However, as much as I miss nice weather, there’s still a lot to be thankful for. Speaking of thankful, I was extremely grateful to Drive Shop for allowing me to test drive the 2016 CX-5 Mazda a few weekends ago. My family and I attended an event that called for lots of trunk space, so this Mazda crossover came in very handy!

2016 Mazda CX-5

Mazda CX-5 2016

2016 Mazda CX-5

The trunk was able to hold more than 100 donated canned goods and non-perishable items. It was also the perfect companion while navigating through D.C., thanks to the touchscreen navigation display. I was able to connect my iPhone to the Bluetooth and have the directions come through the speakers. I also used that function to listen to my iTunes playlists, as usual. Take a look at a few other standard features for the 2016 Mazda CX-5 below:

– 7” Color Touch-Screen Display

– Audio & Bluetooth Controls 

– Push Button Engine Start  

– Blind Spot Monitoring

– 5 Passenger Seating 

– Heated Front Seats

– Power Moonroof

– Rearview Camera

– All-Wheel Drive 

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is affordable & comes with great features. Check out this @MazdaUSA review!

Click To Tweet

I figured driving the car everyday back and forth to work would be a breeze, especially since I’d just tested another Mazda a few weeks prior. The ride was extremely smooth ride and I had no trouble fitting into parking spaces. During the week I drove the car in and around Howard County, back and forth to D.C., and even back and forth to Baltimore. Thanks to the 26 MPG fuel economy guarantee I didn’t have to worry about stopping at a gas station once.

2016 Mazda CX-5

2016 Mazda CX-5


So tell me, what do you think about the 2016 Mazda CX-5? Have you ever driven a Mazda? Let me know! 

Priced at $29,470 with the standard features only and $32,340 for the optional features, this 4-door crossover is a great option for just about anyone. Thanks again Drive Shop for providing me with yet another spacious, stylish and safe ride. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

Keep Up With Me

Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Newsletter

* Drive Shop provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Car Review, Drive Shop, Mazda

#WNJDrives | 2016 Mazda6 Car Review

April 8, 2016 by Whitney 5 Comments

From wifely duties at home, to working a 9-5, updating/managing content on WNJ and FWIAM, taking little sis to a pageant appearance or an acting/modeling gig/audition, to meeting up for a brunch or dinner date with hubs or friends, it’s safe to say I have a pretty active life. And let’s not forget about my weekly me-time activities, going to church and spending time with the family! Thankfully I love (all of) what I do. However, these activities keep me on the road quite a bit. So of course anytime I have the opportunity to test drive a Drive Shop vehicle, I’m all in and very grateful! Not only does it save me some gas, but it also gives me and hubs a chance to test different car models, as we’re thinking about purchasing a new car in the next year or so.

theworldis youroyster.

Last week I had the pleasure of test driving a 2016 Mazda6. I’ve never driven a Mazda so I was excited to get behind the wheel and give it a go! At first glance I loved the color, which was surprising because I’m usually not a fan of white cars. I was also very impressed with the interior. The leather-trimmed heated (front) seats, along with the rest of the inside, was gorgeous. Of course the first thing I did was connect my iPhone to the car; I must listen to my Apple Music playlists while driving. Here are some other features worth sharing, as well as a breif video for an even closer look:

– Bluetooth Hands-free Phone/Audio

– 7.0” Color Touch-Screen Display

– Bose 11” Speaker Sound System 

– Blind Spot Monitoring 

– Heated Front Seats

– Power Side Mirrors 

– Rear-view Camera

– Power Moonroof

– Key-less Entry 

Looking for an affordable, safe and stylish car? Check out the @MazdaUSA Mazda6! #wnjdrives

Click To Tweet

This compact and sporty Mazda6 was the perfect companion during a busy week! The trunk had plenty of space to pack and deliver a food few (Heart of Charity) non-perishable donations, as well as store groceries and clothes from the cleaners. Priced at $30,195 with the standard features, and $33,715 for the optional features, the car is reasonably priced. It’s the perfect purchase for anyone looking for a stylish, compact, 4-door vehicle.

The 2016 Mazda6 is stylish, safe and has amazing features. Check out this @MazdaUSA review!

Click To Tweet

Mazda6

Mazda 6 - Review

Mazda 6 Car Review

Mazda6 Car Review


So tell me, have you ever driven a Mazda6 or another model? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and thanks again Drive Shop for yet another stylish and safe ride. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

Keep Up With Me

Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Newsletter

* Drive Shop provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Auto Review, Car Review

#WNJDrives | 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited Car Review

March 23, 2016 by Whitney 2 Comments

A few weeks ago my younger sister hosted her 3rd annual charity pageant, Heart of Charity, here in Columbia, MD. I knew the week leading up to, and the week of the event, I’d be running last minute errands. Having the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited came in very handy during that time! The trunk and backseat space alone left plenty of room for the event supplies, donations, food, etc.

2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

As with most hybrids, the engine was extremely quiet. There were times I didn’t even realize the car was on. And the fact that the gas gauge barley moved throughout the week was rather impressive! Driving a car that takes 2.4 gallons per 100 mile isn’t bad, at all! Another plus was being able to take and make calls while driving, thanks to the the Bluetooth Hands-free capabilities. Other features included, but not limed to, are:

– Front, Front Side Impact, Side Curtain & Driver Knee Airbags 

– Blind Spot Detection System with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

– Heated & Ventilated Front Seats & & Heated Rear Seats

– 5-inch Color Touchscreen Audio Display

– Panoramic Sunroof w/ Tilt Slide

– SiriusXM Satellite Radio

– Rear-view Camera

– First Aid Kit

2016 Sonata Hybrid Limited

2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited

Sonata Hybrid Limited

Of course I had to sync my iPhone to the car upon entering the vehicle. Once that was all squared away I was able to listen to my personal iTunes playlists and favorite podcasts all week. Listed at $35,765.00 the 2016 Hyundai Sonata’s sleek design and hybrid model definitely caters to the young professional or even millennial crowd. I can also see couples, with possibly one child, enjoying this car as well. There’s plenty of room in the back for 2 (or possibly 3) passengers to fit comfortably.

Check out this review on the sleek and smooth 2016 @Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited! #wnjdrives

Click To Tweet

Because of the fickle weather I wasn’t able to use the panoramic sunroof as much as I’d hoped. However there was one sunny day during the week where I was finally able to open up the sunroof and let the breeze in. It was lovely. Picture driving down the road, wind in your hair, listening to your favorite song on SiruisXM Radio – perfection!

2016 Sonata Hybrid Limited - Car
2016 Sonata Hybrid Limited Review


So tell me, have you ever driven a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid or another model? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading! As we wrap up this month I plan to share a few more posts, however once April comes I’ll be back to blogging “on schedule”. I’m looking forward to a new month and a new season here on WNJ. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

Keep Up With Me

Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Newsletter

* Drive Shop provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Car Review, Drive Shop, lifestyle

#WNJDrives | 2016 Kia Optima Car Review

February 11, 2016 by Whitney 4 Comments

Just before the New Year I had to opportunity to test drive a 2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo. Hubs and I aren’t in the market for a new car immediately, however we plan to purchase a new car within the next 2 years. So whenever I have a chance to test drive a vehicle, I’m excited! I’ve become very found of the Kia brand over the past year and after driving the Optima for a week, it’s safe to say that a Kia purchase just might happen in the near future.

2016 Kia Optima Car Review

I put this car to the test, traveling up and down 95 for meetings and other wok related events, as well as driving my usual routes in and around Howard County. The sleek and sophisticated design caught my eye at first glance and once inside, I was very impressed with the space. The car is compact, but not so small that you don’t feel comfortable. Once I became acclimated with the car, I noticed one thing for sure – this car gets OUT! Now of course I wasn’t speeding recklessly, but the need for speed was met while cursing down 95. Below are a few important features of the 2016 Kia Optima:

– Push Button Start / Smart Key & Trunk

– Dual Front Advance Airbags

– SIRIUSXM Satellite Radio 

– USB/Auxiliary Input Jack 

– Steering Wheel Controls

– Rear Parking Assistance 

– Bluetooth Capabilities

– Navigation System

– 12 Volt Outlet

2016 Kia Optima - Grey

2016 Kia Optima - Car

Again, I’m not usually a fan of compact sport-like cars, but driving this Kia swayed me a bit. I had plenty of room to stretch and felt very safe while driving. Because I’m constantly on-the-go, I’m always pleasantly surprised when there’s a place to charge multiple electronic devices in a vehicle. Hubs and Mom were equally impressed with the features and also loved the chic design and Platinum Graphite color.

The 2016 @Kia Optima is perfect for young professionals and college students! #wnjdrives

Click To Tweet

I can definitely see this car being a great option for a young professional on-the-go, or even a college student. The price of this model, including the features mentioned and a few others, is $27,415. With all the driving I did I was surprised that I din’t have to fill up the tank. The Fuel Economy is listed at 32 MPG. Not bad, at all!

Cars - 2016 Kia Optima

2016 Kia Optima


So tell me, have you ever driven a 2016 Kia Optima or another Kia model? Let me know! 

As always, thanks for reading and commenting. If you’re in the market for a new ride I highly suggest you checking out the Optima, or another Kia model. The more I drive these cars the more I understand the high satisfaction rate among many consumers. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

P.S. Don’t forget to link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Linkup, HERE! 

Keep Up With Me

Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Newsletter

* Drive Shop provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: Auto Review, Kia, lifestyle, travel

Next Page »

Search Blog

Top Categories

More Categories

My Top Posts

  • 7 Bible Verses to Renew and Refresh Your Spirit
  • Life Update | I Have Androgenetic Alopecia
  • 13 Scriptures for Hope & Healing During Trying Times
  • Thrifty Thursday: Thrift vs. Consignment
  • #WNJPlaylist | The Perfect Playlist for a 30th Birthday
  • Personal Style | Maxi Dress and Sneakers
  • #WNJInspired | 7 Things I've Learned After 3 Years of Marriage
  • Faith | 5 YouVersion Bible Plans Every Woman Needs to Read
  • 13 Bible Verses to Celebrate Your Birthday

Copyright © 2023 · Foodie Child Theme by Shay Bocks · Built on the Genesis Framework · Powered by WordPress