“Auto” collection
Explore in-depth vehicle evaluations and automotive technology reviews from a unique family-focused perspective. From testing the latest electric vehicles to practical DIY maintenance guides, these articles provide the essential details needed for modern drivers and tech-savvy parents.
HTD Tech Briefs
View all →February 25, 2013
The Ford Fiesta Movement is Back! And Here’s My Entry! #FiestaMovement
Piggybacking on the success of the previous Ford Fiesta Movement a few years ago, Ford is re-launching the Fiesta Movement (www.fiestamovement.com) to showcase the 2014 Ford Fiesta. Ford is currently looking for "the most vibrant voices and talented storytellers to be agents in the Fiesta Movement." So, I figured that I would throw my hat into the ring! I do…
Read more →January 30, 2013
Passionate about Volvo? The 2013 XC60 and S60 Won’t Let You Down!
My family seems to be quite passionate about the Volvo's that I test drive. My wife always asks as to when we might get another one and my kids really had a great time when we went "top down" in the 2012 Volvo C70 convertible. And, a few months ago, I spent some time behind the wheels of both the…
Read more →December 11, 2012
Saving the Environment & your Wallet – Review the Spacious 2012 Toyota Prius V
Living in the San Francisco Bay Area, it seems like almost every third car on the road is a hybrid of some type, and of those hybrids, a huge majority of those are Toyota Prius's. Californians are obsessed with the environment and with driving and many times, the two don't really go hand-in-hand. About 10+ years ago, before gas prices…
Read more →November 5, 2012
Flexing the Form & Fun Factor of the 2013 Ford Flex SEL AWD
Back in 2010, I had the pleasure of reviewing the Ford Flex. I always had my eye on this unique looking SUV/Crossover. It truly is sort of a blend between both of these styles. The distinct body reminded me of the old Woodie style and as I mention in my video review below, I really think that the Flex would…
Read more →October 1, 2012
Circles, Style, Performance and Fun – The Mini Cooper S Countryman ALL4
I have always wanted to test drive a Mini Cooper. Yeah, ok, they are "cute" but that's not the reason. They are fun - fun to look at, fun to experience and fun to drive. And they have quite a following of devoted fans. In fact, as I was test driving the 2012 Mini Cooper S Countryman ALL4 on a…
Read more →September 12, 2012
The “Electrifying” Ride and Design of the 2012 Chevy Volt
When I was a kid, I actually invented hybrid cars. I thought - wouldn't it be cool if when you slowed down, you could send power back to the battery. Of course my idea was essentially based on a perpetual motion machine where there is no friction or energy loss. I didn't quite get the concept of the fact that…
Read more →August 29, 2012
Hyundai Does It Right Introducing the new 2013 Santa Fe CUV
HighTechDad shares firsthand impressions of the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe after an exclusive influencer launch event. See how this CUV stands out with style, tech, and family-friendly features!
Read more →August 20, 2012
Tight Design & Performance Complete the 2012 Audi A4 Quattro
After test driving the 2012 Audi A4 Quattro for 7 days, I had one word that pretty much summed up everything about this car - "tight." From the exterior body panels to the interior knobs and controls to the smooth, yet powerful engine, every little aspect of the A4 Quattro maps to this word. I really enjoyed my time with…
Read more →July 30, 2012
Getting Rugged in the 2012 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X SUV
For 7 days, my family and I went off-roading in the 2012 Nissan Xterra Pro-4x SUV way up deep into the mountains with no signs of humanity for miles. Well, actually we didn't, we only drove over to Monterrey, CA, but in my mind, I imagined taking the Xterra up into the mountains using the 4x4 the entire time. We…
Read more →July 18, 2012
Technology & Style Drive the 2012 Ford Edge Limited Edition
I have been test driving Fords for a few years now and I see an evolution happening. Not only are the autos becoming more stylish, the technology driving them is evolving. I remember first testing out the Ford Sync (when it was known more as Microsoft Sync) in the 2010 Ford Flex. Now, Ford has kept the innovation engine running…
Read more →July 9, 2012
A Vacation on Wheels! Review of the 2012 Volvo C70 Convertible
Test driving cars is truly a lot of fun and only over the past couple of years has it become regular content on HighTechDad.com. For me, I believe that cars are an important part of the family dynamic. They can be both utilitarian but also define the family persona. There may be one car that you use to do the…
Read more →June 27, 2012
Review of the 2012 Nissan Juke – A “Peppy” Crossover from Nissan
The 2012 Nissan Juke is a pretty unique car. It has a crossover styling and Nissan bills it as "the bold urban sport crossover." And they aren't kidding. The Juke is very distinctive when it drives by. I remember first reading about the Juke and how it was targeted towards 20-30 year old males. Well, I can tell you that…
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