Author: fabcarsAdmin

Jan 18

2024 Triumph Daytona 660: A New Era for Mid-Range Motorcycles

Triumph’s Affordable Performance Machine

The 2024 Triumph Daytona 660 enters the market with a competitive sub-$10,000 price tag, aiming to challenge its Japanese rivals. While many thrill-seekers often gravitate towards liter bikes, not every rider requires a 1,000cc powerhouse. Triumph’s latest offering provides a high-revving, lightweight alternative perfect for everyday riders seeking excitement without excessive power.

A black 2024 Triumph Daytona 660 parks in a city square.
2024 Triumph Daytona 660 | Triumph

The New Triumph Daytona 660

The Daytona 660 revives Triumph’s tradition of powerful mid-range motorcycles, filling the void left by the discontinued Daytona 675 and 675 R. Featuring a 660cc inline three-cylinder engine, this model is part of Triumph’s well-loved triple lineup, which includes bikes like the Street Triple 765 and the massive Rocket 3. The 660cc engine delivers 93.6 horsepower, significantly more than the Trident 660, proving that you don’t need 200+ horsepower to experience thrilling performance.

Impressive Features and Competitive Pricing

Despite its moderate power output, the Daytona 660’s lightweight design (443 lbs wet) ensures an exhilarating ride. Riders will appreciate its high-end components, such as the 41mm Showa big-piston front forks, adjustable Showa rear suspension, and dual 310mm front disc brakes with a Continental ABS modulator. Priced at $9,195, the Daytona 660 is competitively positioned, slightly undercutting the Yamaha R6 and significantly cheaper than the Suzuki GSX-600R.

Technical Specifications

  • Engine: 660cc inline three-cylinder
  • Horsepower: 93.6 hp at 11,250 rpm
  • Torque: 50.9 lb-ft
  • Weight: 443 lbs (wet)
  • Starting Price: $9,195

Conclusion: A Worthy Competitor

The 2024 Triumph Daytona 660 is set to be a formidable contender in the mid-range motorcycle segment. With its blend of power, agility, and advanced features, it offers an appealing option for riders seeking a dynamic yet manageable ride. Stay tuned to MotorBiscuit for more updates on the latest motorcycle and car news.

Jan 18

Honda, Kia and Hyundai dominate list of Best Cars for the Money

Just in time for this weekend’s D.C. Auto Show, U.S. News & World Report has issued its 2024 list of the Best Cars for the Money. Eleven cars have won the distinction ranging from compact sedan to minivan to three-row SUV.

Three automakers dominate the list: Honda, Kia and Hyundai.

“We believe that you can’t ever get a good deal on a car unless you’re getting a good car that will give you years and years of trouble-free and inexpensive service. So our ‘Best Cars for the Money’ awards really honor those cars that have good reliability, good quality and are going to be on the road for the long haul,” said John Vincent, senior editor in charge of vehicle testing at U.S. News & World Report.

The organization measures the quality of the vehicles that make the list by determining the actual cost of a car — including ongoing costs, like repairs and insurance — and the comfortability with the drive, interior and tech features.

There are familiar names and models that have long-earned the praise and loyalty of car buyers, including the Honda Civic, the 2024 model named Best Compact Car for the Money.

“Honestly, that’s probably one of the most competitive awards here … the Civic competes with the Toyota Corolla known long for its reliability, [and] the Kia Forte, which comes with that 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty. But when we look at the complete package, our numbers show that the Civic comes out on top. The Civic is popular, it’s stylish … everything about that car works really well,” said Vincent.

Other Hondas judged “best for the money” are the 2024 Accord in the mid-size category, the 2024 Odyssey minivan and 2024 Passport, which is a two-row SUV.

Kia has placed four models on the “Best Car for the Money” list.

“That’s surprising from a brand that … has only been in the market for a relatively short time to have four awards out of 11. That’s amazing to me,” said Vincent.

The 2024 Kia Soul was named “Best Subcompact SUV for the Money,” the 2024 Sportage Hybrid won “Best Hybrid SUV for the Money,” the 2024 Sportage PHEV, “Best Plug-in Hybrid SUV for the Money” and the 2024 Telluride were named the “Best 3-Row SUV for the Money.”

“Telluride — they still haven’t met demand. They’ve had it out for several years and … as many of them as they can build they deliver into customers hands instantly,” said Vincent. “It does everything that you want from a three-row SUV, it’s comfortable, it drives great.”

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson was named “Best Compact SUV for the Money,” the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was named “Best Electric SUV for the Money” and the 2024 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid was named “Best Hybrid Car for the Money.”

Vincent said the awards will be doled out at this weekend’s D.C. Auto Show, where all of the cars on the list are expected to be on display.

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Jan 18

Exploring the 2024 Dodge Durango: A Robust SUV with High-Performance Engines and Striking Design

Introduction

The 2024 Dodge Durango stands out in the midsize SUV category with its impressive towing capabilities, powerful engine options, and unique, muscular design. Unlike its competitors, which often resemble overgrown minivans, the Durango retains the heart and soul of a traditional SUV. Priced starting at $40,420, it promises both adventure and utility, catering especially to those who value performance and towing capacity over mere passenger transport.

Power and Performance

At the core of the Dodge Durango’s appeal is its range of robust engines. The base model features a 293-horsepower V6 engine, capable of handling daily driving demands with ease. For those who crave more power, the Durango offers V8 options, including the R/T model’s 5.7-liter V8, delivering 360 horsepower paired with a captivating exhaust note. The top-tier SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat models not only enhance performance with 475 and 710 horsepower engines respectively but also include high-end features like Brembo brakes and Bilstein suspensions, elevating the driving experience to match that of much pricier sports cars.

Practicality and Comfort

Despite its performance-oriented setup, the Durango does not fall short on practicality. It offers substantial cargo space and a comfortable third-row seating configuration, though it’s slightly cramped for adults. The interior, while somewhat outdated compared to newer rivals, can be upgraded with luxurious options like Nappa leather seats and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Standard safety features now include blind-spot monitoring, enhancing its suitability as a family vehicle capable of adventurous undertakings.

Adding Emotional and Factual Enhancements

The Dodge Durango not only provides a solution for powerful towing and robust trips but also brings a sense of excitement and pride to everyday driving. This vehicle isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s about experiencing the thrill of the drive with every turn and acceleration. For families who enjoy weekend adventures or need a reliable vehicle for towing, the Durango offers a blend of practicality and pleasure, ensuring that every journey is memorable.

In terms of investment, potential buyers should consider the Durango’s value retention, which is slightly below average among midsize SUVs. Consulting resources like Kelley Blue Book for the Fair Purchase Price can help ensure that you’re making a wise financial decision. Additionally, understanding the fuel economy, particularly the V6’s efficiency in mixed driving conditions, can aid in long-term budgeting for fuel costs, especially important for those prioritizing economic use in a powerful vehicle.

This combination of utility, performance, and a touch of luxury makes the 2024 Dodge Durango a compelling choice for those who want more than just a functional family vehicle—they want a car that feels alive.

Jan 18

Kim Jong-un’s Latest Maybach Acquisition Raises Questions About Sanction Efficacy

Preamble to Power

A recent photograph from North Korean state media, released by the Korean Central Television, captures leader Kim Jong-un stepping out of a Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600. This luxury SUV, first launched in 2019 by the German manufacturer, proudly displays the emblem of Kim’s role as the president of the State Affairs Commission on its door, symbolizing his authoritative status.

Evasion of Sanctions

Despite stringent international sanctions that prohibit luxury imports to North Korea—including a pivotal 2006 United Nations Security Council resolution—high-end goods like the Maybach GLS 600 continue to find their way into the country. This not only underscores the persistent challenge of enforcing these sanctions but also highlights the regime’s adeptness at circumventing global restrictions to cater to its elite.

Luxury Amidst Adversity

Amid severe economic struggles and chronic food shortages within North Korea, the stark contrast of the ruling family’s lavish expenditures on luxury items is evident. The regime, seemingly indifferent to the dire conditions of its citizens, regularly flaunts these high-end possessions in state media broadcasts. Such actions reveal a deliberate disregard for the hardships faced by the populace, emphasizing the leadership’s focus on maintaining an image of affluence and power.

Adding Emotional and Factual Enhancements

The presence of luxury vehicles and other high-end goods in North Korea not only contradicts international efforts to limit the regime’s access to such items but also paints a complex picture of disparity and defiance. By showcasing these symbols of wealth, Kim Jong-un not only reaffirms his unyielded authority but also challenges the efficacy of global sanctions aimed at curbing his regime’s ambitions.

This opulent display occurs against a backdrop of profound national suffering, where millions are left wanting. The contrast between the leader’s indulgence in luxury and the general populace’s deprivation highlights a deep disconnect, intensifying the scrutiny on international policy effectiveness and humanitarian concerns within the region.

These episodes of luxury amidst austerity serve not just as a political statement but also as a stark reminder of the profound inequalities that plague the North Korean society under Kim’s rule. The regime’s priorities are vividly showcased, focusing more on prestige and power rather than addressing the pressing needs of its people.

Jan 18

Almost imperceptible refresh also brings a new grille and different wheel designs, plus a standard 10.25-inch infotainment screen

Almost imperceptible refresh also brings a new grille and different wheel designs, plus a standard 10.25-inch infotainment screen

Hyundai Extends Full-Width Light Bar Feature To Facelifted Bayon SUV

Ask any ageing Hollywood celeb and they’ll tell you that the best kind of facelift is the one you don’t even notice. Maybe that was what Hyundai’s designers were aiming for when they set about giving the now three-year old Bayon a bit of cosmetic attention, because it’s incredibly difficult to tell old from new.

To be fair, the Bayon already featured Hyundai’s latest design language including a split-headlight treatment on the nose that included a pair of razor-slim DRLs. What it didn’t have, but does now, is a full width light bar to connect those DRLs, just like you’ll find on many newer Hyundais. There are also some subtle changes to the bumpers and grille that reduce the amount of body-colored plastic on the front end in favor of more moody black and give the dinky hatch a wide-mouth look.

Jan 18

Revitalized Cupra Ateca: Bringing Pizzazz to Family-Friendly SUVs

A Fresh Take on Family Style

The Cupra Ateca, originally shared with the Seat brand, has emerged as a standalone model since 2018, boasting enhancements that keep it relevant in a crowded market segment. Not just another family SUV, the Ateca now sports a distinctive design, incorporating style tweaks that align it more closely with Cupra’s dynamic lineup like the Formentor and Born. This model retains its practical essence while adopting a sharper aesthetic that makes it stand out.

Cupra Ateca
Cupra Ateca The large wheels do disrupt the ride

Performance Meets Everyday Practicality

Under the hood, the Cupra Ateca offers a balance of performance and efficiency that suits everyday driving. The test model features a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 148 horsepower and delivering a smooth drive with a respectable fuel economy of up to 41.5 mpg. For those seeking more vigor, a 2.0-litre option is available, providing enhanced power and the added capability of four-wheel drive, distinguishing it from the standard front-wheel drive setup.

Cupra Ateca
Cupra Ateca The Ateca is available with 1.5- and 2.0-litre engines

Design and Comfort: A Harmonious Blend

The Ateca’s recent facelift subtly enhances its visual appeal without straying too far from its roots. It boasts updated LED lighting and sleek 19-inch alloys that inject a bit of drama into its appearance. Inside, the Ateca remains a bastion of family-friendly design with ample headroom and a spacious rear, though the 510-litre boot capacity slightly trails competitors like the Audi Q3 and Peugeot 3008.

Cupra Ateca
Cupra Ateca

Adding Factual and Beneficial Information

The Cupra Ateca’s integration of style and functionality makes it a compelling choice for families who desire a bit more flair in their daily commute. With its competitive pricing and high level of standard equipment, the Ateca offers value without sacrificing on the modern amenities that drivers appreciate, such as wireless smartphone integration and dual-zone climate control.

Cupra Ateca
Cupra Ateca The intricate alloys do give the Ateca more character

Moreover, the option to choose between different powertrains allows families to select a vehicle that best matches their lifestyle, whether they prioritize efficiency or performance. The vehicle’s well-rounded attributes underscore its appeal as a practical yet stylish option in the SUV market, offering a unique blend of everyday usability with a touch of sportiness that can elevate the daily driving experience.

Cupra Ateca
Cupra Ateca The interior has plenty of good materials
Cupra Ateca
Cupra Ateca The boot is deep, square and easy to access

This approach to blending traditional SUV qualities with modern design and technology showcases Cupra’s commitment to meeting consumer demands while still injecting personality and excitement into the segment, making the Ateca not just a functional choice, but also a statement on the road.

Jan 18

Edmunds Recommends: Top Cars Under $30,000 for Budget-Conscious Buyers

Navigating Car Buying on a Budget

As the average cost of new cars climbs, with recent figures showing a typical new vehicle selling for around $48,000, potential buyers face increasing financial challenges. Elevated interest rates further complicate the affordability of new vehicles. However, amidst these rising costs, there are still several new cars available under $30,000 that offer value without compromising on quality.

Edmunds’ Top Affordable Car Picks

The team at Edmunds has carefully curated a list of five exceptional cars priced below $30,000, considering not just affordability but also long-term value. They evaluated aspects like comfort, fuel efficiency, advanced driver assistance systems, and overall practicality. The selection process ensures that each vehicle provides a balance of features and performance that stand out in their respective categories.

Adding Factual and Beneficial Information

Choosing a new car under $30,000 doesn’t mean settling for less; it’s about making a smart, economical decision. The cars selected by Edmunds are designed to deliver not just cost savings upfront but also ongoing benefits such as lower fuel costs and fewer maintenance issues compared to older or less efficient models. These vehicles represent not only a wise financial choice but also a reliable means of transportation.

Investing a bit more in a quality vehicle within this price range can often result in better long-term satisfaction and reduced overall ownership costs. Features such as advanced safety technologies and better fuel economy are becoming more accessible in these cost-effective models, making them not only budget-friendly but also forward-thinking choices. This approach not only saves money in the short term but also aligns with a more sustainable and economically prudent lifestyle, offering drivers peace of mind and reduced environmental impact.

Jan 18

Nissan Xterra’s Third Generation: A Nostalgic Revival with Modern Frontier Features

Nissan’s Rising Sales and Potential for Expansion

Last year, Nissan’s sales in the United States saw a significant boost, with nearly 899,000 vehicles sold—a 23% increase over the previous year. This surge was driven by popular models such as the Sentra, Kicks, Rogue, and Pathfinder. Despite this diverse lineup, there’s still room in Nissan’s portfolio for another true SUV, especially since the Pathfinder has transitioned from a truck-based to a crossover SUV.

Nissan Xterra rendering by jlord8Off-road SUV renderings by jlord8Off-road SUV renderings by jlord8Off-road SUV renderings by jlord8Off-road SUV renderings by jlord8
Photo: jlord8 / Instagram

Digital Dreams of a Revived Xterra

The digital realm of car design is vibrant with creativity, particularly from artists like Jim, known as jlord8 on social media, who specializes in digital renderings of potential vehicle models. Recently, Jim has turned his attention to conceptualizing mid-size SUVs, including a retro-styled Toyota 4Runner and a reimagination of the Nissan Frontier as an SUV. His latest project involves a modern revival of the Nissan Xterra, inspired by its rugged second-generation design and the latest Nissan Frontier.

A Nostalgic Yet Modern SUV Concept

The envisioned third-generation Xterra merges nostalgic elements from its past iterations with modern enhancements from the current Frontier model. This concept SUV, inspired by the Frontier’s Hardbody special edition, aims to blend classic Xterra toughness with contemporary features and off-road capabilities. Although just a digital fantasy, this new Xterra concept stirs excitement among fans, imagining its potential to rival contemporaries like the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco, and Jeep Wrangler in the off-road segment.

Adding Factual and Beneficial Information

The revival of the Nissan Xterra as envisioned in digital concepts highlights a growing trend in the automotive industry: blending historical design elements with modern technology. This approach not only appeals to nostalgia but also meets modern performance standards, offering a unique selling proposition in the competitive SUV market. The conceptual third-generation Xterra, with ties to the Frontier’s latest features, suggests potential in a market segment that values both tradition and innovation.

Such a revival could significantly impact Nissan’s market positioning, providing a robust alternative to the more common crossovers and enhancing the brand’s appeal to off-road enthusiasts and SUV lovers. By integrating advanced technology and retaining rugged aesthetics, Nissan could cater to a niche yet growing demographic that appreciates vehicles capable of both everyday commutes and adventurous escapades. This strategy could also deepen brand loyalty among consumers who value durability and design, ensuring Nissan remains competitive in evolving automotive landscapes.

Jan 18

Tata Motors Introduces Punch EV, Eyes Significant Sales Goals

Tata Motors’ Bold Electric Vehicle Initiative

Tata Motors, a prominent figure in India’s automotive sector, recently launched the Punch EV SUV as part of its ambitious initiative to expand its electric vehicle lineup. Priced between Rs 10.99 lakh and Rs 14.49 lakh, the Punch EV is positioned to challenge competitors like the MG Comet, Citroen eC3, and even Tata’s own Tiago EV. With this launch, Tata Motors aims to hit a sales figure of 1 lakh electric units annually by next year.

Enhancing Market Presence and Leadership

Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer at Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, detailed in an interview the company’s strategy to widen its electric vehicle range and strengthen its distribution across India. Tata Motors is on a mission to increase its electric vehicle sales substantially, building on last year’s 54,000 units sold, which accounted for a 73% market share. This expansion underscores Tata’s commitment to spearhead India’s shift toward more sustainable transportation solutions.

Key Features and Innovations of the Punch EV

The Punch EV represents Tata Motors’ second venture into the electric SUV market, aiming to boost its presence in the bustling compact SUV sector, which sees approximately 85,000 units sold each month. The vehicle is available in five different variants and is the first to feature the Gen 2 Pure EV platform named Acti.EV, known for its robust, high-strength material construction. Offering battery options of 25kWh or 35kWh and fast charging capabilities, the Punch EV marries high performance with user convenience, catering to the environmentally conscious driver.

Adding Valuable Insights

The rollout of the Tata Punch EV marks a pivotal advancement in marrying eco-friendly innovations with user-centric features. This launch not only aligns with Tata Motors’ vision for a greener future but also meets the increasing consumer demand for sustainable and efficient transport solutions in India. Tata’s entry into this market segment is set to broaden the accessibility of electric vehicles, promoting their adoption across a wider demographic.

Equipped with dual battery choices and quick charging features, the Punch EV is tailored to satisfy the modern consumer’s demands for dependable and eco-friendly transportation. Capable of charging up to 80% in just under an hour and with notable capabilities for navigating through water, the Punch EV stands out as a top choice for both city driving and off-road adventures. This strategic move by Tata Motors not only broadens its product range but also establishes a new benchmark in the compact SUV category, enhancing the appeal of electric vehicles among prospective buyers.

Jan 18

NK leader spotted using Mercedes-Benz SUV despite sanctions

This image, captured from footage of North Korea’s state-run Korean Central Television, Jan. 15, shows the North’s leader Kim Jong-un emerging from what appears to be a Mercedes-Benz SUV. Yonhap

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un was seen getting out of what appeared to be a luxury Mercedes-Benz SUV, state media footage has shown, despite international sanctions banning the North’s imports of luxury goods.

Footage aired by the North’s Korean Central Television on Monday showed Kim emerging from a black SUV whose rear door on the right side has the sign of Kim’s title, the president of the State Affairs Commission.

It appeared to be his new private car, presumed to be the top-class model of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600.

In August 2020, Kim was spotted in the driver’s seat of an SUV, presumed to be a Lexus LX 570, when he visited flood-hit areas.

Kim has made public appearances in different Mercedes-Maybach S-class vehicles, including a limousine, snubbing international sanctions on North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs.

Key North Korean officials, including Premier Kim Tok-hun, arrived at the venue of a year-end party meeting in late December 2023 in Mercedes-Benz sedans, separate footage showed.

Such vehicles are subject to U.N. sanctions that ban the supply of luxury automobiles to North Korea.

In October 2023, South Korea’s unification ministry said Kim and his family are spending up to millions of dollars a year on luxury goods despite chronic food shortages and economic difficulties aggravated by U.N. sanctions and COVID-19. (Yonhap)