Author: fabcarsAdmin

Aug 20

Why the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Outperforms the Hyundai Nexo: A Comparison of Electric and Hydrogen Vehicles

The Hyundai Nexo, an innovative hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, struggles to gain traction compared to its electric sibling, the Hyundai Ioniq 5. While the Nexo’s technology is advanced, its limited refueling infrastructure significantly impacts its appeal. In contrast, the Ioniq 5 benefits from widespread charging options, contributing to its far superior popularity and sales.

Challenges Facing the Hyundai Nexo

The Hyundai Nexo relies on hydrogen fuel cells, which necessitate refueling at specialized stations. Currently, these stations are predominantly located in California, with a few in other states and territories, such as a single station in Honolulu, Hawaii. This restricted availability makes owning a Nexo impractical for most U.S. residents, limiting its appeal compared to more accessible electric vehicles.

Success of the Hyundai Ioniq 5

In contrast, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a conventional lithium-ion battery that can be charged at numerous locations nationwide. This flexibility makes it far more convenient for a broader audience, resulting in a notable increase in sales. With over 18,000 units sold this year alone, the Ioniq 5 outperforms the Nexo by a significant margin, demonstrating the advantages of widespread charging infrastructure.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Despite the Nexo’s impressive hydrogen refueling speed—just five minutes for a full tank—and its substantial range of up to 380 miles, it is overshadowed by the Ioniq 5’s broader appeal and lower cost. The Ioniq 5’s starting price is under $42,000, making it more affordable than the Nexo, which starts at over $60,000. While the Nexo excels in range and fast refueling, the Ioniq 5’s convenience and cost-effectiveness make it a more attractive option for many buyers.

Aug 20

Top 3 Affordable SUVs for 2023: Which to Embrace, Choose, or Skip

Inflation has made buying a new SUV challenging for many, but there are still budget-friendly options available. Several models start under $22,000, offering a range of choices for cost-conscious buyers. Here’s a breakdown of which affordable SUVs are worth considering, which offer great value, and which might be best to avoid.

Best Choice: 2023 Kia Soul

Among the cheapest SUVs for 2023, the Kia Soul stands out as the top pick. Since its debut in 2008, the Soul has maintained its appeal with distinctive design and solid performance. With a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 147 horsepower and achieving up to 35 miles per gallon on the highway, it combines efficiency with a fun, practical driving experience. The Soul’s spacious interior and charming design make it a compelling option that offers both style and substance at a reasonable price.

Consider: 2023 Hyundai Venue and Chevy Trailblazer

While the Hyundai Venue and Chevy Trailblazer are also budget-friendly, they fall short compared to the Kia Soul. The Venue’s affordability is notable, but it lacks the character and interior space of the Soul. The Trailblazer, though slightly more expensive, does not provide significantly better performance or features. Both are decent choices, but they don’t quite match the Soul’s blend of charm and functionality.

Why the Kia Soul Wins

The Kia Soul excels over its competitors with a combination of appealing design and practical features. It’s not just about the lowest price but also the overall driving experience and ownership satisfaction. In this comparison, the Soul’s unique style and value for money make it the standout choice among the cheapest SUVs available.

Aug 20

MSHP: Bicyclist attempting to change lanes hit by SUV in Lilbourn

A bicyclist was taken to the hospital after they were hit by a vehicle on a highway in Lilbourn, Missouri on Saturday, August 19.

The crash happened at about 5:10 p.m. on Highway D.

According to Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22-year-old Tristan Sletten, of New Madrid, was cycling eastbound when he attempted change lanes and was hit by an SUV.

The crash occurred as the bicyclist, identified as 22-year-old Tristan Sletten of New Madrid, attempted to change lanes. Sletten was then struck by an SUV.

Sletten reportedly suffered moderate injuries and was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital for treatment.

The driver of the SUV was not hurt.

Aug 19

How Much Is the Cheapest New 2023 Genesis Model?

A luxury division of Hyundai Motor Company, Genesis is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. Despite its South Korean roots, Genesis is quite comparable to German luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. The cheapest new Genesis model is a thing of beauty. Even with its more affordable price, the 2023 Genesis G70 remains the epitome of luxury and performance. Here’s a look at what the 2023 Genesis G70 has to offer consumers in the luxury segment.

A look at the 2023 Genesis G70

A luxury four-door sedan that gives the likes of the BMW M340i and the Audi A4 a run for its money, the 2023 Genesis G70 is one of the more affordably priced sedans in the segment. However, even with its more affordable price, the G70 doesn’t skimp on luxury. There are two trim levels available on the G70, including the baseline 2.0T trim and the upper level 3.3T trim.

Despite its luxury status, the Genesis G70 is quite an affordable option within the segment. Genesis starts the baseline 2.0T trim at $39,400. This trim features an RWD drivetrain with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 252 hp. The 2.0T trim also features an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base trim level can also be upgraded to an AWD drivetrain, which bumps the starting MSRP to $41,500.

Here’s what the cheapest new Genesis has to offer

The cheapest new Genesis G70 gets decent fuel economy, averaging 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The 2.0T trim with the AWD drivetrain gets slightly dampened fuel economy, averaging just 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The baseline G70 comes standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system, a hands-free smart trunk with auto open, heated outside mirrors, and forward collision-avoidance technology.

Consumers also have the option to upgrade the baseline G70 2.0T trim to the Sport Prestige package for an extra $4,500. The Sport Prestige package brings a ton of additional amenities to the luxury sedan, like 19-inch sport alloy wheels, a wide sunroof, and power-folding outside mirrors. On the interior, the Sport Prestige package also upgrades the leatherette seating to full leather and brings ventilated front seats, Lexicon premium audio, and wireless device charging to the sedan.

What comes with the upper-level Genesis G70 trim level?

Along with the baseline 2.0T trim, consumers have the option to upgrade to the upper level 3.3T trim level. Genesis offers the 3.3T with RWD at a starting MSRP of $44,900. Like the baseline trim, the 3.3T trim can be upgraded to an AWD drivetrain which increases the starting MSRP to $47,000. The upper-level Genesis G70 sports a twin-turbo 3.3L V6 engine producing 365 hp.

Like with the baseline trim, Genesis offers package upgrades on the 3.3T trim level. The Sport Advanced package adds an additional $4,300 to the MSRP, while the Sport Prestige package adds an extra $8,700. The Sport Prestige package on the 3.3T trim brings ultimate luxury to the sedan with Nappa leather seating, a heated steering wheel, a surround-view monitor, a blind-spot view monitor, the top-of-the-line Brembo braking system, and electronically controlled suspension.

Based on price, features, and performance, The 2023 Genesis G70 is one of the most affordable small luxury cars on the market today. If you’re looking for a more affordable way to enter the luxury segment, the cheapest new Genesis G70 is the way to go.

Aug 19

Why the 2023 Nissan Maxima Platinum Trim Tops the Charts

When choosing among the 2023 Nissan Maxima’s trim levels, it’s insightful to know which one stands out the most for buyers. The Maxima blends luxury and performance, and among its trims, one particular model is drawing significant interest. Here’s a look at why the Platinum trim is capturing the most attention from shoppers and critics alike.

Overview of the 2023 Nissan Maxima Trim Levels

The 2023 Nissan Maxima offers three distinct trims: the SV ($38,340), SR ($43,500), and Platinum ($44,450). Each trim level provides a range of features designed to cater to different preferences. The base SV comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 300 horsepower, leather seats, and advanced safety features. Stepping up to the SR adds sporty enhancements like paddle shifters and a sport suspension, while the Platinum trim offers luxury features such as heated rear seats and premium leather upholstery.

Why the Platinum Trim is the Most Popular

The 2023 Nissan Maxima Platinum trim is the top choice among buyers, according to various reviews and consumer feedback. This trim level is favored for its additional luxury features, including wood interior accents, a power rear sunshade, and automatic wipers. These enhancements make the Platinum trim particularly appealing for those seeking a more refined driving experience, justifying the higher price tag for many enthusiasts.

Recommendations from Industry Experts

Car and Driver highlights the Platinum trim as a worthwhile upgrade, praising its unique luxury features. Conversely, Edmunds suggests the SV trim for those who prefer essential features at a lower cost. With the Maxima set to be redesigned as an electric crossover in 2025, 2023 is the last opportunity to purchase this current sedan model. Therefore, if you’re a fan of the Maxima’s sporty design, securing the Platinum trim now may be your best option before it transitions to its next iteration.

This blend of luxury, performance, and exclusivity makes the 2023 Maxima Platinum a standout choice, ensuring that it remains a top pick among enthusiasts and reviewers.

Aug 19

2023 Kia Soul: A Compact Powerhouse of Style and Functionality

The 2023 Kia Soul often flies under the radar but surprises many with its robust offerings in a compact form. Despite its small size, the Kia Soul stands out for its practicality, safety, and unexpected spaciousness, making it an ideal pick for anyone seeking a dependable yet affordable compact SUV.

Unpacking the Value of the 2023 Kia Soul

Regarded as an underdog in the subcompact SUV category, the 2023 Kia Soul proves that good things come in small packages. Ranked highly among its peers for its comprehensive features and affordability, it offers significant value with its highest trim priced just under $25,000. The Soul is celebrated for its versatility and economy, scoring well in reliability and cost-effectiveness. With trims ranging from the base LX at $19,890 to the fully-equipped EX at $24,190, the Soul is accessible without compromising on essentials like an eight-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and remote keyless entry.

Spacious and Safe: The Kia Soul’s Design Advantages

Despite its classification as a subcompact SUV, the Kia Soul is one of the most spacious options in its class, making it a top choice for taller drivers. The vehicle offers ample headroom and legroom, with 39.9 inches of front headroom and 41.1 inches of legroom, which continues to impress in the rear with comparable space. The Soul maximizes its hatchback design, offering a versatile cargo space of 24.2 cubic feet, expanding to 62.1 cubic feet with the rear seats down, proving that size isn’t always an indicator of capacity.

Safety and Performance of the 2023 Kia Soul

Kia doesn’t skimp on safety, equipping every Soul model with advanced safety features from its Drive Wise suite, including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The model’s compact structure is complemented by robust safety scores from industry-standard tests, ensuring driver and passenger protection despite its smaller stature. Under the hood, the Soul features a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, providing enough power for city driving and occasional highway trips, ensuring that this compact SUV is not only practical but also enjoyable to drive.

For those undervaluing the 2023 Kia Soul, a test drive might just alter your perceptions, offering a blend of functionality, safety, and style in a compact package that’s hard to overlook.

Aug 19

2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz: The Most Popular Trim Revealed

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz has shaken up the compact pickup market with its unique blend of style and utility. As it competes with rivals like the Ford Maverick, this pickup truck has proven its worth with various trim levels that cater to different needs and preferences. If you’re considering a Santa Cruz, here’s a closer look at the trims, their standout features, and which one is capturing the most interest from both buyers and experts.

Exploring the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz Trims

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz comes in five distinct trims, ranging from the base SE at $26,650 to the top-of-the-line Limited at $42,405. The SE and SEL trims feature a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower, while higher trims like the Night, XRT, and Limited models offer a more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 281 horsepower. Recent updates to the Santa Cruz lineup include standard Bi-LED headlights, synthetic leather upholstery in upper trims, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen for enhanced convenience.

Which Trim is the Favorite Among Buyers?

According to Edmunds, the SEL trim stands out as the top choice among 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz buyers. For about $3,000 more than the base model, the SEL offers keyless entry, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and additional features like heated front seats and a lockable cargo bed. The SEL also provides access to the Activity Package, which includes a sunroof, roof rails, and a wireless charging pad, making it a well-rounded option for those seeking extra comfort and functionality.

Expert Recommendations for the Best Santa Cruz Experience

For those willing to invest a bit more, automotive experts suggest opting for the XRT trim, praised for its turbocharged engine and extensive list of features. Autotrader highlights the XRT’s value with its powerful engine, towing capacity, and advanced amenities. While it’s priced about $2,000 more than the previous SEL Premium trim, the XRT offers added features like synthetic leather upholstery and improved driver assistance technologies, making it a worthwhile upgrade for many buyers.

Whether you’re leaning towards the SEL for its balanced features or considering the XRT for its enhanced performance, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers impressive options for every driver. With its stylish design and robust capabilities, this compact pickup is set to make a strong impression in the market.

Aug 19

19-year-old driver injured after SUV crashes into tree in Hingham, police say

A 19-year-old driver was injured in a crash on Gardner Street on Friday night, police said.

The crash occurred around 11 p.m. Friday, when an SUV drove off the road and struck a large tree, police said.

The extent of the driver’s injuries or the driver’s condition were not available on Saturday.

Photographs released by police on Saturday show a vehicle with heavy damage.

“She had just dropped off her 2 passengers right before this crash,” police said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Saturday night.

Further information was not immediately available.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Aug 19

EPA Reveals Range and Efficiency for Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE Versions

The latest update from the EPA provides detailed insights into the range and efficiency of the Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive versions, offering a comprehensive look at how these models stack up. Despite the addition of the all-wheel-drive system, it only slightly impacts the vehicle’s range. This update allows potential buyers to compare the new all-wheel-drive variants side-by-side with their front-wheel-drive counterparts.

Range and Efficiency Breakdown

The Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE’s all-wheel-drive models exhibit only a modest reduction in range compared to their front-wheel-drive equivalents. For instance, the base 66-kWh battery model has a range of 216 miles, which decreases to 205 miles with the e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system, a difference of about 11 miles or 5%. Similarly, the 91-kWh battery variant drops from a range of 289-304 miles to 272 miles with all-wheel drive, reflecting a decrease of approximately 17 miles or nearly 6%.

Energy Consumption Insights

In terms of energy consumption, the all-wheel-drive e-4ORCE models are slightly less efficient than their front-wheel-drive counterparts. The 66-kWh Ariya Engage e-4ORCE has an energy consumption rate of 95 MPGe, while the 91-kWh Engage+ version stands at 92 MPGe, showing a roughly 3% decrease in efficiency due to the added weight and complexity of the all-wheel-drive system. These figures highlight the minor trade-offs between the enhanced traction of all-wheel drive and overall energy efficiency.

Pricing and Model Comparison

While the range and efficiency metrics provide important insights, it’s also crucial to consider pricing. The all-wheel-drive versions of the Ariya are priced higher, reflecting their additional capabilities. For example, the Engage e-4ORCE AWD starts at $47,190, compared to $43,190 for the front-wheel-drive Engage. This pricing structure remains consistent with the previous models, ensuring that buyers can weigh their options based on both range and cost-effectiveness.

With this detailed breakdown, prospective buyers can make a more informed decision, balancing their preference for all-wheel drive with the slight reductions in range and efficiency.

Aug 19

Digital rendering applies the Land Cruiser Prado styling treatment into a unibody subcompact SUV as a rugged-looking alternative to the Toyota Yaris Cross

Digital rendering applies the Land Cruiser Prado styling treatment into a unibody subcompact SUV as a rugged-looking alternative to the Toyota Yaris Cross

This story includes independent renderings of a fictional baby Land Cruiser that are not related to nor endorsed by Toyota

The Toyota Land Cruiser lineup currently comprises the new J250 (Prado), the larger J300, and the immortal J70 Series, but the automaker recently announced plans to further expand it in the future. Inspired by the idea of a broader Land Cruiser family, digital artist Theottle infused the styling of the new J250 into the body of a small SUV.

The renderings were based on the totally unrelated Geely Icon that was only used as a reference to the size and proportions of the segment. Theotle did a great job in infusing the lines and surfacing of the Land Cruiser into a smaller body although the result would certainly cause controversy.

The longer front overhang, smaller ground clearance, and sporty alloy wheels shod in low-profile tires are not the best match for the boxy and rugged style of the Land Cruiser. However, we must admit that the rear section of the profile merges nicely with the retro LED taillights and the boxy wheel arches. Overall, the fictional baby Land Cruiser would make a fitting rival to the Jeep Avenger, although we can easily picture a larger version getting into the territory of the Ford Bronco Sport.

The sub-compact SUV segment (B-SUV) is quite popular in many parts of the world including Europe. Buyers seem to love the adventurous stance and greater practicality of sporty high-riding crossovers compared to the mechanically-related superminis, despite the significantly higher price tag.

While a baby Land Cruiser would certainly have many prospective buyers, it would also cause discomfort to loyal fans of the nameplate. Such an offering would be too small, soft, and road-focused to bear the iconic Land Cruiser moniker which is closely tied to exceptional off-road credentials, reliability, and practicality. For this reason, we believe that Toyota will keep using the Yaris Cross nameplate for the B-SUV segment, reserving the Land Cruiser for properly-sized rugged SUVs.

Speaking of which, the official teaser shown during the Land Cruiser’s launch suggests that the next offerings set to adopt the nameplate are an FJ Cruiser-style off-roader, a larger modern-styled SUV, and an electric scooter with off-road capabilities.