The Volvo EX30 Takes On The Hyundai Kona Electric And The Winner Isn’t Obvious

The Electrifying YouTube channel decided to roll out the Hyundai Kona Electric for a head-to-head comparison of the features, capabilities, and pricing with the new Volvo EX30. While at first glance, you might expect the EX30 to come away with a major win, this is not a one-sided comparison by any means.

A Quick Takeaway of the EX30 and Kona Electric

The EX30 has fast charge speeds and is more attractive inside and out, but it is not spacious and has an overreliance on the central touchscreen. The Kona has a longer driving range, heads-up-display, large rear seat and excellent V2L features.

Regarding styling, both hosts agree that the EX30 easily takes the win. The Volvo has a nice clean look, even if it isn’t particularly bold or exciting. Nicki describes the Volvo’s overall aesthetic as having a “kind of coherent, Scandinavian finish to it.” Nicola especially appreciates the EX30’s 20-inch wheels, even if they aren’t the most efficient option.

When it comes to the Kona Electric’s aesthetics, the car takes a bit of a beating from front to back. The first punch is thrown at the Kona’s forward-facing, off-center charge port. “It’s not the most coherent car,” Nicola says. “It’s bubbly at the front, jiggy-jagged down the side, and has a little booty in the back.”2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Interior

On the interior, the hosts have differing tastes. The Kona Electric has a perfectly functional interior, with a nice driver’s cockpit. Most importantly for Nicola, most functions in the Kona are tied to actual buttons rather than the central screen. Nicki feels that while buttons are nice, the Kona’s cockpit is overkill and criticizes the interior for being too grey.

While the Kona might go too far in one direction, the EX30 takes it to the extreme in the other direction. Almost all primary functions are assigned to the 12.3-inch screen. Nicola is not a particular fan of this Tesla-styled cockpit “I just want a nob and a button. That’s all I’m asking for.”

Nicki and Nicola can agree that the Hyundai’s heads-up display is great, and are disappointed that it is not available on the Volvo.

The rear seat of the Kona is also a clear winner. The little Hyundai is nice and roomy with heated seats and plenty of ports including a vehicle-to-load (V2L) outlet. The rear of the EX30 does have good headroom thanks to the panoramic sunroof. But legroom is very tight and the Volvo lacks heated rear seats and a V2L outlet.

Both vehicles have small but quite functional frunks. Whereas the trunk space comparison is a blowout, with the Kona holding 466L and the EX30 only carrying 318L.

On the road, the Volvo drives very well, feeling a bit quicker than the Hyundai. They’re driving the single-motor rear-wheel drive version here, which has 272 hp and feels surprisingly sporty. The twin motor version does have better performance, but even the single motor EX30 has a respectable 5.3 second 0-60 time.

The Hyundai does not have the same level of performance, with 215 hp and a 7.8 second 0-60 time. The Kona Electric is also front-wheel drive and is prone to frequent tire squeals and loss of traction if you gun it from a standstill. Constantly pinging driver alert notifications are also irritating and go off for everything from slightly wandering eyes, hugging too close to lane markers and every single speed limit change. Still, the regen paddles are a nice feature and the ride itself is very good for a car this size and this price range.

On range and charging, there is a split decision. The Kona has a driving range of 319 miles WLTP range and takes 41 minutes to charge from 10 to 80%. The EX30 has a 295-mile WLTP range but takes only 28 minutes to charge 10-80% at a DCFC.

In the end, there are two recommendations: for those with children, the Hyundai Kona Electric is the obvious answer thanks to its larger rear seat and trunk space. For couples and singles, the Volvo EX30 is the way to go.

Stolen SUV found submerged in Cook’s Lagoon in Canton

City firefighters fished out a stolen SUV from Cook’s Lagoon on Sunday morning.

A fisherman reported to authorities at 8:50 a.m. that he spotted the roof of a vehicle in the middle of the pond, located in the 1800 block of Mahoning Road NE.

The Canton Fire Department’s water rescue team searched the vehicle for victims and city police responded to investigate. The doors were locked so rescue personnel broke the windows to enter the vehicle, which was unoccupied.

The vehicle was reported stolen from Plain Township on Saturday.

Rescue personnel assisted Canton Towing in removing the vehicle from the pond.

The incident remains under investigation.

Cook’s Lagoon and Trail, which is overseen by Stark Parks, offers fishing, a trail and picnic tables. The small fishing pond is fed by the Middle Branch of the Nimishillen Creek.

Urgent Recall: Tesla Addresses Fatal Accelerator Issue in Cybertruck Models

Social Media Sparks a Major Recall

The journey from online rumors to an official recall began with a series of social media posts about Tesla Cybertrucks accelerating uncontrollably. A critical video from TikToker Jose Martinez exposing a faulty accelerator pedal prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate an investigation, halting further deliveries of the Cybertruck. Tesla has now initiated a voluntary recall to address and rectify this hazardous issue.

Uncovering the Malfunction

The danger became evident when TikTok footage showed the Cybertruck’s accelerator pedal disassembling during use. The pedal’s surface, meant to secure the driver’s foot, detached and jammed under the vehicle’s trim, causing it to remain fully engaged. Given the Cybertruck’s impressive acceleration capabilities—reaching 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds—and its substantial weight of 6,800 pounds, this mechanical fault posed a significant threat to safety.

Regulatory Response and Tesla’s Action

The NHTSA’s findings revealed improper assembly practices at Tesla’s manufacturing facilities, including the use of soap as a lubricant to ease pedal assembly, which unfortunately made it prone to disassembly. Despite previous confrontations between Tesla and the NHTSA over recall procedures and safety transparency, Tesla promptly responded this time by recalling all 3,878 units manufactured between November 13, 2024, and April 4, 2024. Tesla owners are urged to visit showrooms with service departments for immediate repairs to prevent potential accidents.

This recall highlights the critical nature of automotive safety and Tesla’s proactive steps to ensure the well-being of its customers by addressing this severe malfunction swiftly.

Top Compact Luxury Cars of 2024: A Guide for Canadian Enthusiasts

2024 Compact Luxury Car Overview

The landscape of compact luxury cars has evolved, with a select few models capturing the spotlight in the Canadian market. The Car Guide’s rigorous analysis has led to the identification of three standout vehicles for 2024, each maintaining their top positions from the previous year, predominantly hailing from German manufacturers renowned for their engineering excellence.

1. Audi A4/A5: Maintaining a Legacy of Superiority

Audi’s A4 continues its reign as a perennial favorite, securing The Car Guide’s Best Buy award year after year, for nearly a decade. The 2024 A4 enchants with its elegant design and a robust engine lineup, from a turbocharged 2.0-litre delivering 261 horsepower to a potent V6 that offers 349 horsepower. The versatility extends with the A4 allroad variant, adaptable to a range of needs, though it comes with the caveat of potentially expensive add-ons. Alternatively, the A5 is available for those desiring a coupe, cabriolet, or liftback configuration, including a high-performance 444-horsepower RS variant.

2. BMW 3 Series/4 Series: A Standard of Innovation

Photo: BMW

The BMW 3 Series remains a cornerstone in the compact luxury car segment, entering 2024 with the same acclaim following a significant update. This model provides a spectrum of powertrains, from a 255-horsepower four-cylinder to the exhilarating 543-horsepower six-cylinder in the M3 CS, complemented by a plug-in hybrid variant for those seeking efficiency. The 4 Series, offered in coupe and convertible forms, features an immersive curved display and advanced infotainment system, ensuring a responsive and engaging user experience. Both the 3 and 4 Series exemplify agility and precision, though they may not be the ultimate in comfort within the category.

3. Genesis G70: Elegance Meets Performance

Photo: Genesis

In its sixth production year, the Genesis G70 has successfully secured a loyal following with its blend of style and performance. The latest iteration boasts a base 2.5-litre engine producing 300 horsepower, matching the segment’s best for standard engine output, with an optional 3.3-litre V6 that ramps up to 368 horsepower. Beyond power, the 2024 G70 enhances its appeal with upgraded connectivity features and safety enhancements. While it lacks a high-performance model, the G70’s focus on comfort and stellar customer service solidifies its status as a top contender for those valuing a refined driving experience.

This selection of compact luxury cars for 2024 underscores a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern technological advancements, offering Canadian drivers sophisticated and high-performing options in the luxury segment.

2024 Porsche Cayenne GTS: Bridging Performance and Luxury

Evolution of the Porsche Cayenne GTS

In 2024, Porsche completed the anticipated update of its Cayenne lineup with the introduction of the GTS version, widely acclaimed for its optimal blend of performance and accessibility. This marked a significant evolution from 2023 when Porsche began refreshing the lineup. Originating in 2008, the GTS model—short for Gran Turismo Sport—has been a cornerstone in Porsche’s strategy, representing a perfect mix of high-speed, long-distance travel comfort, and luxury, distinguishing itself from the more powerful Turbo models yet surpassing the base variants in luxury and speed.

Exterior and Design Enhancements

The 2024 Cayenne GTS distinguishes itself with a commanding presence, featuring a wide black grille that dominates the front fascia, integrating advanced safety system radars and flanked by unique scoops. Below, a new air intake supports enhanced cooling. Exclusive dark-tinted HD matrix LED headlights set this model apart from other Cayenne variants, including the high-end Turbo and Turbo S. The profile of the GTS is further accentuated by piano-black trims and a 10-millimeter lower stance than its siblings, with anthracite gray 21-inch wheels and dark bronze exhaust tips enhancing its dynamic aesthetic.

Interior Luxury and Technological Sophistication

Inside, the GTS version of the Cayenne exudes sporty luxury. It features a heated GT sports steering wheel and is extensively clad in race-tex material, with suede-like fabric enhancing the opulence of the headliner, door cards, and sport seats. The cockpit is modernized with three digital displays, eliminating the traditional analog tachometer, a change that may be controversial among purists. The gear selector has also been relocated for ergonomic efficiency, now positioned next to the steering wheel on the dashboard.

Performance and Handling Capabilities

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 2024 Cayenne GTS boasts a chassis inherited from the Cayenne Turbo GT, complete with adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard. The enhanced Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) and Porsche Traction Management (PTM) ensure exceptional handling dynamics. Power is delivered by a 4.0-liter bi-turbo engine, now producing 493 horsepower—40 more than its predecessor—through an eight-speed automatic transmission distributing force to all four wheels.

This fusion of advanced engineering and luxurious design elements makes the 2024 Porsche Cayenne GTS a coveted model for those who seek both thrill and comfort in their driving experience.

Tragic Incident: Missouri Woman Fatally Hit by SUV Near Milan

Fatal Accident in Northeast Missouri

In a heartbreaking incident on a quiet Sunday afternoon, a woman from northeast Missouri lost her life after being hit by an SUV. The accident occurred just before 1:30 p.m. on Route OO, about three miles north of Milan, Missouri, casting a somber shadow over the community.

Details of the Collision

Mary E. Baugher, 63, of Milan, tragically stepped into the path of an oncoming SUV after getting out of a parked vehicle. The SUV, headed northbound, was driven by 18-year-old Johnathon M. Stanton, also from Milan. The sudden and unfortunate sequence of events led to a swift response from emergency services.

Aftermath and Response

Baugher was urgently transported to the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, where she was later pronounced dead. This tragic event highlights the critical need for vigilant safety measures on roadways, especially concerning vehicle and pedestrian traffic coordination. The community and local authorities are urged to consider additional safety protocols to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.

Skoda Finalizes Names for Upcoming Sub-Compact SUV in India, Eyeing March 2025 Debut

Skoda Gears Up for a New Challenger in the Sub-Compact SUV Segment

Skoda is set to intensify competition in India’s sub-compact SUV market with a new model poised to challenge established players like Tata Nexon and Maruti Suzuki Brezza. Leveraging the robust MQB-A0-IN platform shared with the Kushaq and Slavia, this upcoming vehicle promises top-notch safety, rich features, and robust performance. As the segment grows, Skoda’s new offering aims to capture the interest of a diverse consumer base looking for quality and value.

Engaging the Public in the Naming Process

In a unique marketing move, Skoda engaged its audience by initiating a social media campaign to name the new SUV, sparking considerable interest and participation. From over two hundred thousand entries, the Czech automaker has narrowed down to ten potential names including Kylaq, Kymaq, and Karmiq, among others. This interactive approach not only boosts engagement but also builds anticipation for the SUV’s debut scheduled for March 2025, demonstrating Skoda’s commitment to involving its customer base in key brand decisions.

Commitment to Safety and Accessibility

Skoda reaffirms its dedication to safety with the new SUV expected to meet the high standards set by its siblings, the Kushaq and Slavia, both of which have achieved five-star safety ratings from Global NCAP. The forthcoming model is anticipated to be among the safest in its class, combining Skoda’s engineering prowess with affordability, with prices projected to start under ₹10 lakh. This strategic pricing is aimed at making the new SUV one of the most accessible vehicles in Skoda’s Indian portfolio, appealing to a broad range of customers seeking both safety and affordability.

This approach not only signifies Skoda’s strategic expansion in the competitive Indian market but also highlights its innovative engagement with consumers through interactive and customer-focused initiatives.

Top 5 Affordable Cars Under £5k for 2024: Expert Picks for Value and Efficiency

Exceptional Value in Compact Cars

Car experts at the online marketplace Carwow have recently highlighted the best budget-friendly cars available in Britain for under £5,000. Among the top picks, the beloved Ford Fiesta features prominently, offering a perfect balance of performance and affordability. These selections not only provide great purchase value but also boast reliability, low insurance costs, and minimal maintenance needs, making them ideal choices for budget-conscious drivers.

A Closer Look at the Top Affordable Models

The lineup offers a variety of cars that all fall into the hatchback and supermini categories, ensuring there’s a style to suit any taste. All selected models comply with ULEZ or Clean Air Zone regulations, which is a significant benefit for residents in urban areas looking to avoid extra environmental fees. Among the highlighted vehicles, the Peugeot 208 stands out with its spacious interior and lively performance, available for under £3,000, making it an exceptional deal for small families and younger drivers alike.

Highlighted Models and Their Unique Features

Peugeot 208: Positioned strategically between the 108 and 308 in Peugeot’s range, the 208 offers versatility and fun driving dynamics, all while being one of the most economical cars to operate due to its low insurance group placement.
Peugeot 208
Peugeot 208Credit: Newspress
Ford Ka: This compact car is noted for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, enhanced by a strong partnership with Fiat that has bolstered its engineering. Despite its smaller size, the Ka remains competitive in performance and cost, especially for city driving.
Ford Ka
Ford KaCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Ford Fiesta: A staple in the UK car market, the Fiesta has been a preferred choice for decades, known for its spaciousness and driving pleasure. As Ford phases out this model, its enduring popularity ensures it remains a sought-after option for families.
Ford Fiesta
Ford FiestaCredit: Alamy
Citroen C1: Often recommended as the perfect city car, the C1 is compact, maneuverable, and stylish, making it ideal for urban environments. Its design shares a platform with the Peugeot 108, offering a cohesive blend of size and functionality.
Citroen C1
Citroen C1Credit: Alamy
Nissan Note: Known for its roominess and affordability, the Note provides practicality without the hefty price tag, standing out as an economical option for those needing a bit more space.
Nissan Note
Nissan Note

These vehicles represent the best of affordability, efficiency, and comfort in the current market, providing excellent options for those seeking dependable transportation without a significant financial burden.

Tragic Incident: Two Children Fatalities in Monroe County Boat Club Crash

Heartbreaking Loss at Local Celebration

In a devastating turn of events, a birthday celebration at the Swan Boat Club in Monroe County was marred by tragedy when a suspected drunk driver veered into the party area. An eight-year-old girl and her five-year-old brother tragically lost their lives due to the accident. This incident has left the community in shock and mourning the untimely loss of such young lives.

Legal Proceedings Await the Responsible Driver

The driver, a 66-year-old woman, is now facing severe legal consequences as she is expected to appear before a judge on April 22. The case has drawn attention to the dangers of impaired driving and the irreversible harm it can cause. Local authorities and community members are calling for stricter enforcement of DUI laws to prevent such heart-wrenching incidents in the future.

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the catastrophic impact of driving under the influence. The community grieves for the family of the young victims and calls for collective action to enhance road safety and prevent future tragedies.

Car dubbed Britain’s ‘most amazing’ by Jeremy Clarkson on sale for just £15k

A CAR dubbed “the most amazing in Britain” by Jeremy Clarkson can be picked up for as little as £15,000.

The Top Gear star crowned the mid-size saloon as the best in the nation despite it being “one of the most boring-looking”.

The Mazda 3 saloon is available for as little as £15,000 on AutoTrader.
It won praise from Jeremy Clarkson, who dubbed it the 'most amazing car in Britain'
It won praise from Jeremy Clarkson, who dubbed it the ‘most amazing car in Britain’Credit: PA

However, what’s “underneath its invisible skin” makes the Mazda 3 one of the best cars on sale in the UK, according to Clarkson.

Mazda ignores the hybrid systems which make family cars today complicated.

Instead, the Japanese manufacturer focuses on improving fuel usage.

Clarkson wrote in The Times: “What the two-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine in the 3 does is combine the characteristics of diesel and petrol technology.”

You are driving something from a place, a very long way in the future, called, ‘sensible.’

Jeremy Clarkson

The Grand Tour host explained that Mazda had designed the perfect engine which uses fuel more efficiently than a lot of other motors.

The Mazda 3 saloon can go 54 miles per gallon which is more than 15 mpg than the average car in the UK.

Clarkson said: ” You are driving something from a place, a very long way in the future, called, ‘sensible.'”

He added that Mazda’s design trumps the previous turbo and diesel engines in other cars and even the best electric vehicles.

“With Mazda’s tech, there’s no obvious downside at all.

“It’s just a nice, smooth engine.”

Ultra-rare Ford Mondeo once branded ‘one of the most exclusive cars in the world’ by Jeremy Clarkson available for bargain price

Mazda’s chassis was made for comfort and attempts to remove any “bumps and shudders” away from the driver.

“Even the tyres have soft and squidgy sidewalls,” said Clarkson.

He added: “So if you’re a private detective who needs to remain fresh and alert while using a car that’s invisible to tail an errant husband, this has to be your No 1 choice.”

Yet, the Mazda is not just a comfy motor but also a rapid one.

The popular TV presenter said he enjoys “whizzing” around country lanes in it and loves their “old-fashioned manual gearbox”.

The Mazda 3 saloon maintains its simplicity by not complicating the dashboard and has modes for all types of petrolheads that will make driving this family car enjoyable.

Another quality feature in Mazda’s saloon car is its leather steering wheel, which Clarkson said was “tremendous”.

Nonetheless, even the motor dubbed the “best car “most amazing” on sale in the UK still has kinks to iron out, according to the presenter.

He cited the limited space at the back of the car and added that there are “some significant blind spots”.

There isn’t a lot of boot space either, however, Clarkson recommends buying the hatchback if this would be a problem for you.

A lot of drivers spend their time disabling safety features in their new motors.

Yet, it was only on Clarkson’s final day of testing the Mazda that he found a switch that “shuts everything up “.

It is unclear how the Japanese manufacturer has managed to do this under “EU law” but it seems they have found a loophole.

The Mazda 3 saloon is one of the most “impressive and satisfying cars” Clarkson has ever driven and it puts the other electric family cars to shame.

It is available for as little as £15,000 on AutoTrader.