Author: fabcarsAdmin

Jan 18

6 Expensive Luxury Cars That Fail to Deliver Value

Luxury Cars That Fall Short of Expectations

The saying “you get what you pay for” doesn’t always apply, especially with certain luxury cars. Higher prices often lead to expectations of superior quality, fewer issues, and greater reliability. However, these six vehicles fall short of these expectations, earning a spot as some of the most disappointing luxury cars.

Assessing the Least Valuable Luxury Cars

Various organizations evaluate vehicles through different criteria. For this list, we used the CarEdge value rating system, which includes the following factors over five years of ownership:

  • Depreciation
  • Insurance Premiums
  • Maintenance and Repairs
  • Loan Interest
  • Fuel Costs

Jaguar XF

Black Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class parked near a building. This is one of the luxury cars to avoid.
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | Mercedes-Benz

The Jaguar XF, the only sedan in Jaguar’s current lineup, often remains unsold on dealership lots. Over five years, the ownership cost for this vehicle totals $63,154, exceeding its average purchase price of $59,086. This makes it a poor investment for those seeking a luxury sedan.

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Red Land Rover Discovery Sport driving on a road. This might be a good off-road SUV, but not great as a luxury vehicle in terms of cost of ownership.
Land Rover Discovery Sport | Land Rover

As the entry-level SUV from Mercedes-Benz, the GLA-Class struggles to offer substantial value. With a five-year ownership cost of $47,622, it barely justifies its average purchase price of $46,673. Despite its premium branding, it falls short among luxury SUVs.

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Gray Land Rover Range Rover Velar driving near water.
Land Rover Range Rover Velar | Land Rover

The Land Rover Discovery Sport, although designed for adventure, is not a wise financial choice. Over five years, it costs owners $54,797, which is more than its average purchase price of $52,329. Its high depreciation suggests it’s better to keep than to resell.

Land Rover Range Rover Velar

Blue BMW 5 Series driving on a road. This popular luxury car is one of the lowest-rated in terms of five-year cost of ownership.
BMW 5 Series | BMW

The Velar receives mixed reviews from owners. Its depreciation cost of $31,578 is considerable, and its five-year ownership cost totals $66,601, almost matching its $67,301 average purchase price. This makes it a risky financial decision.

BMW 5 Series

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class posed on a beach at sunset.
Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class | Mercedes-Benz

Despite its popularity, the BMW 5 Series is expensive to own. Over five years, it costs owners $62,599, nearly matching its average purchase price of $64,289. Leasing might be a more economical option to avoid high ownership costs.

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

The GLC-Class, slightly larger than the GLA, also fails to provide good value. With a five-year cost of $49,698 and an average purchase price of $52,246, it receives an “F” from CarEdge, highlighting its poor financial performance as a luxury SUV.

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Comprehending Depreciation and Ownership Costs

These vehicles highlight the need to consider long-term expenses beyond the purchase price. Depreciation, insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs can significantly affect overall affordability, making it essential for buyers to evaluate these factors.

Strategic Planning for Luxury Car Buyers

Prospective buyers should understand that luxury doesn’t always mean lasting value. Careful research and planning can help avoid high ownership costs. Considering leasing options or choosing models with better long-term financial performance can lead to more satisfying investments in luxury vehicles.

By recognizing these hidden costs and making informed decisions, luxury car buyers can better manage their investments and avoid financial pitfalls.

Jan 18

Honda Pilot TrailSport: Premier Choice for Off-Road Family Travel

Discover the Off-Road Prowess of the Honda Pilot TrailSport

Ideal for families who demand safety and performance, the Honda Pilot TrailSport emerges as a formidable player in the off-road SUV category. This seven-seater is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that outputs 285 horsepower, integrated seamlessly with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup ensures power is distributed effectively across all wheels, making the TrailSport variant particularly adept at handling rough terrain.

Specialized Features for Rugged Terrain

The TrailSport version stands out with its enhanced ground clearance and rugged tires, designed specifically for navigating challenging terrains such as mud and rocks. Protection against undercarriage damage is provided by robust skid plates, safeguarding critical components like the powertrain. Recognized for its capabilities, the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport has been tested and praised by Car and Driver for its competence on “moderately-difficult” trails, affirming its suitability for adventurous drivers.

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Enhanced Towing Capacity and Efficient Fuel Use

The all-wheel-drive configuration of the Pilot TrailSport allows it to tow an impressive 5,000 pounds, outperforming the standard 3,500-pound limit of its front-wheel-drive counterparts. Fuel efficiency stands at 19 mpg in urban settings, 25 mpg on highways, and a combined 21 mpg, highlighting the SUV’s balance between robust performance and economical operation.

Pricing and Market Positioning

Positioned near the top of the 2023 Honda Pilot series, just under the Elite model, the TrailSport is offered at about $50,000—making it $12,000 pricier than the entry-level LX version. The extra investment secures advanced off-roading capabilities and a suite of additional features, presenting a compelling option for those prioritizing versatility and durability in their driving experiences.

Jan 18

Man flings himself on top of car during attempted vehicle theft in Margate

MARGATE, Fla. – Dramatic video shows an attempted car theft in action in Margate.

The incident was reported around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday outside of a strip mall located near the intersection of 441 and Northwest 15th Street.

Jerome Dingle, who was nearby, said he heard a man screaming and attempting to stop an alleged thief from stealing his car.

Surveillance video obtained by Local 10 News Thursday shows a man holding onto the hood of the car as it sped away.

“The man was literally on the roof and started screaming,” said Dingle.

Witnesses say that the car that was reported stolen was a red four-door sedan.

Authorities have not provided any additional information on the condition of the victim or the car that was reported stolen.

It is unclear if any arrests were made following the incident.

Local 10 News has reached out to the Margate Police Department for more information.

Jan 18

Courage in Colorado: Daring Rescue of Child and Mother from Precarious SUV Wreck

Dramatic Rescue Following Colorado SUV Accident

In a heart-stopping incident in Colorado, a mother and her young child were saved by first responders after their SUV was left teetering on a retaining wall following a crash. The accident, which occurred on the evening of Tuesday at the intersection of 30th Street and Valmont Road in Boulder, prompted an immediate response from local police.

Heroic Actions by Police Officers at the Scene

Bodycam footage from the scene captured Boulder Police Officers Raquel Ray and Carlos Castro as they arrived swiftly to manage the crisis. The footage reveals the perilous position of a Lexus SUV, hanging over the edge after smashing through a fence. Officer Ray urgently instructed the driver to cease accelerating, while Officer Castro coordinated the rescue of the frightened child from the rear seat, reassuring her of her mother’s imminent safety.

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Firefighters’ Crucial Role and Vehicle Stabilization

Quickly following the police, Boulder Fire and Rescue teams arrived to secure the dangling vehicle, allowing safe extraction of the driver. The fire department publicly praised the police officers for their swift action in ensuring the child’s safety, highlighting the collaborative effort involved in such rescues.

Legal and Safety Implications of the Crash

Post-rescue, the fire department emphasized the complex nature of vehicle extrications, a skill they regularly practice due to its necessity in emergencies. Meanwhile, the driver faced charges including careless driving and child abuse, with ongoing investigations to determine if a medical episode might have contributed to the accident. This incident underscores the critical importance of driver awareness and the remarkable bravery of first responders in emergencies.

Jan 18

Car crashes into local business

A local business is working to recover after a car plowed through their front window Thursday morning.

“It sounded like an explosion in there,” said Andy Barriga a store salesman who witnessed the crash. “It took me a second to even register what happened.”

The crash took place at Alpine Home Medical around 10:30 a.m. on 25th and Channing Way in Idaho Falls. Employees inside the store were not beside the window at the time of the crash. No injuries were reported.

“I ran out along with a bystander to her vehicle,” Barriga said. “She was lethargic, didn’t know where she was, who she was. We turned the car off, got her keys from her, called the police.”

Idaho Falls Police responded to the accident and evaluated the driver. Determinations on what may have caused her to lose control of her vehicle have not yet been released.

After the car was towed away, employees resumed work as normal for the day. But, they are working to get the hole boarded up before renovations can be completed.

“We have appointments with patients this afternoon that we still have to do,” said Barriga. “So, we’ll do the best to accommodate them and not let them get injured in the in the mess.”

In addition to the storefront damage, some power lines to the building were severed during the accident. The cost of repairs is unknown at this time.

Jan 18

Hulk Hogan’s Epic Mopar Collection: A Rivalry with Goldberg’s Garage

Hulk Hogan’s Passion for Mopar Matches WWE Fame

Hulk Hogan, renowned for his WWE superstardom, matches his ring flair with an intense passion for Mopars, making his automotive tastes as legendary as his wrestling career. His collection, echoing the enthusiasm of fellow WWE star Bill Goldberg, spans from venerable Dodge Chargers to the ferocious modern Hellcats.

A HEMI Orange 1968 Dodge Charger hangs out at a Mopar car show.
An orange 1968 Dodge Charger R/T | Streager via iStock

Iconic Models in Hogan’s Mopar Collection

Hogan’s garage boasts a lineup that rivals the best classic car collections, prominently featuring Mopar classics that are a nod to both performance and nostalgia. Noteworthy in his collection is an orange 1968 Dodge Charger R/T known for its monstrous upgrade to a 528 cubic-inch V8 engine, delivering a staggering 900 horsepower. Alongside, he owns an enviable array of Plymouths including the 1969 Road Runner, 1971 Barracuda, and the standout Plum Crazy Purple 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda.

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From Classic Muscle to Modern Power

While Hogan’s classics are a testament to his taste for vintage muscle, his affinity for speed and power extends to newer models as well. His 2021 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye exemplifies modern muscle, combining high horsepower with the practicality needed for everyday use. Additionally, his 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon highlights his preference for extreme performance, boasting 840 horsepower and a record for the first production car wheelie.

Cultural Impact and Legacy of Hogan’s Collection

Hogan’s choice of vehicles reflects more than just a penchant for high-powered cars; it represents a blend of American automotive heritage and celebrity culture. His vehicles not only showcase technological advancements and design evolution but also embed the larger-than-life persona Hogan carried in the wrestling ring into each model, making his collection a crossroad of automotive excellence and entertainment legacy.

Jan 18

SUV crashes into a Wichita storefront

An SUV crashed into a storefront Thursday morning.

It happened shortly before 11 a.m. in the 3100 block of E. Harry St.

Lieutenant Aaron Moses with the Wichita Police Department says a driver of an SUV thought they had placed their vehicle in park.

However, they accidentally accelerated and crashed into the from of the building. The Wichita Fire Department was called to the scene to ensure the building was still structurally sound.

No one was hurt.

Jan 18

Tragic Electrocution Incident: Toddler Survives as Power Line Claims Three Lives in Portland

Deadly Accident in Northeast Portland

In a heartbreaking incident in northeast Portland, a live power line, brought down by a falling tree branch, landed on an SUV, resulting in the deaths of two adults and a teenager. This tragic event unfolded on Wednesday in the Russel Neighborhood, drawing an urgent response from Portland Fire & Rescue.

Catastrophic Sequence of Events

As the power line made contact with their vehicle, the occupants, overwhelmed by fear, exited the SUV. Tragically, they were electrocuted upon touching the ground, which acted as a conduit for the electric current from the live wire. Nearby, a quick-thinking passerby managed to rescue a 2-year-old child from one of the fatally injured adults, saving the toddler from the electrified area.

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Safety Warnings and Community Impact

This devastating occurrence has led local authorities to emphasize the dangers of downed power lines. Dameon Pesanti from Clark Public Utilities advised that it’s crucial to treat all downed wires as live and potentially deadly. He recommended staying inside the vehicle if a wire falls on it and immediately contacting emergency services. This advice is particularly pertinent as the Portland metro area has recently seen a spate of fatalities attributed to adverse winter conditions, with at least ten deaths reported since Friday.

Response and Support

Following the tragedy, local schools, particularly Milwaukie High School, where one of the victims, sophomore Ta’Ron Briggs, studied, have mobilized support services for students and staff affected by the incident. The community is reminded of the unpredictable and dangerous nature of winter weather and the importance of emergency preparedness.

Jan 18

Reevaluating Production: Should Ford Pause Bronco Manufacturing to Address Quality Concerns?

Ford Bronco’s Popularity and Persistent Issues

The Ford Bronco has captivated enthusiasts since its 2021 revival, touted for its rugged charm and adaptability for off-roading adventures. Despite its popularity and strong market presence, the Bronco has consistently fallen short in the quality department. Persistent issues across each model year raise questions about its ranking among top midsize SUVs, with some owners experiencing hassle-free ownership while others face recurring problems.

The Ford Bronco is one of the best midsize SUVs for off roading
2024 Ford Bronco | Ford

Quality Assessments and Consumer Feedback

Despite its aesthetic appeal and customization options, the Bronco’s reliability scores from entities like J.D. Power—scoring just 75 out of 100 for the 2024 model—suggest mediocrity in a segment where excellence is expected. Continuous low ratings in quality and reliability across various models highlight a troubling trend for such a well-loved vehicle. With its highest accolades tied to resale value rather than performance or reliability, potential buyers might pause, considering the ongoing issues reported by current owners.

The 2023 Ford Bronco has issues
2023 Ford Bronco | Ford

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Chronic Engine and Mechanical Failures

Significant mechanical woes, particularly with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine, have led to multiple investigations by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, noting severe engine failures that could affect tens of thousands of vehicles. Such critical failures not only dampen consumer confidence but also spotlight the potential safety hazards inherent in continuing production without rectifications.

The Case for a Production Pause

Considering the array of transmission glitches, leaks, and unusual noises, along with several recalls impacting essential vehicle functions like steering and powertrain, a temporary halt in Bronco production could be prudent. This pause would allow Ford to thoroughly address and rectify these recurrent issues, potentially restoring consumer trust and ensuring the Bronco can truly meet the high expectations set by its iconic name and history.

Incorporating these changes could help Ford align the Bronco with industry standards for quality and reliability, ultimately benefiting both the manufacturer and its customers by enhancing the overall ownership experience and safeguarding the brand’s reputation.

Jan 18

Record-Breaking Electric Vehicle Sales in the U.S. Reach Over 1.1 Million in 2023

Surge in Electric Vehicle Popularity

The U.S. witnessed a historic surge in electric vehicle (EV) sales in 2023, with figures soaring to new heights. According to a report by Argonne National Laboratory, December alone saw 141,055 rechargeable vehicles sold, encompassing 100,928 all-electric models and 40,127 plug-in hybrids. This remarkable volume accounted for 9.8% of total light-duty vehicle sales in the U.S., marking a significant 42% increase from the previous year.

Annual Achievements and Market Growth

Throughout 2023, the U.S. significantly expanded its electric vehicle footprint, selling over 1.4 million plug-in models, which represented 9.1% of all vehicle sales—up from 6.8% the prior year. This growth underscores a strong market trend toward electrification, with electric vehicle sales peaking in September at a 9.9% market share. The increasing preference for EVs indicates a robust shift in consumer behavior, favoring more sustainable and technologically advanced vehicles.

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Long-term Market Trends and Global Context

By the close of 2023, nearly 5 million plug-in vehicles had been sold in the U.S. since December 2010, showcasing a swift adoption curve particularly noticeable over the last year. This trend is still lagging behind Europe and China, where EV market penetration is higher, but the consistent month-over-month growth throughout 2023 suggests a solid foundation for future expansion.

Future Outlook and Industry Impact

Looking forward, projections suggest a potential rise in all-electric vehicle sales to between 1.5 to 2 million units in 2024, driven by increasing consumer demand and expanding EV infrastructure. The predominance of Tesla and other EV-specific startups illustrates a significant shift within the automotive industry, emphasizing innovation and environmental considerations in vehicle manufacturing.

This surge in electric vehicle adoption not only highlights advancements in automotive technology but also reflects a broader societal move towards environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, setting the stage for continued growth in this dynamic sector.