Category: Cars

Dec 18

Top 10 Cars of the Year: Navigating Through Petrol, Diesel, and Electric Options

As we reflect on the best new cars of the past year, it’s evident that the automotive landscape is shifting. While the push towards electric vehicles is strong, there’s still a diverse selection of exceptional petrol and diesel cars. This list showcases the top 10 vehicles currently available, combining innovation, style, and performance to meet various driving needs.

1. Renault Austral

The Renault Austral stands out with its unique hybrid system, blending elements from traditional and range-extender hybrids. Although it may seem pricey and occasionally noisy, it offers a stylish design, an impressive interior, and commendable fuel efficiency. Its blend of features makes it a distinctive choice, despite some minor flaws.

Pros: Stylish design, efficient, well-equipped
Cons: Expensive, hybrid system can be noisy
Overall: A compelling option with a few quirks

2. Ford Tourneo

The Ford Tourneo, essentially a Transit with seats, offers a spacious interior and a high-tech platform. With room for up to nine people and versatile seating arrangements, it’s perfect for large families or groups. While it comes at a premium price, its practicality and driving comfort are notable.

Pros: Ample space, high-tech features, versatile seating
Cons: Higher cost
Overall: Ideal for those needing extensive space and comfort

3. Skoda Fabia

The Skoda Fabia has elevated itself above the VW Golf, offering a more refined cabin and a surprisingly spacious boot. Although it’s priced similarly to a Golf, the Fabia delivers excellent value with its improved features and layout. The only drawback is its somewhat cramped rear seating.

Pros: Excellent value, spacious boot, refined cabin
Cons: Tight rear seat space
Overall: A better option compared to the Golf for many

4. Opel Astra

The Opel Astra is a solid hatchback with a stylish design and engaging drive. The 1.2 petrol engine is efficient and enjoyable, while the upcoming all-electric version promises an impressive range. The estate variant remains the top choice due to its practical boot space and sleek appearance.

Pros: Attractive design, fun to drive, efficient engine
Cons: Some cabin quality issues, PHEV is less practical
Overall: Great as a petrol model now, with electric options on the horizon

5. Polestar 2

The Polestar 2 competes with the Tesla Model 3 but falls short on long-range efficiency. The new rear-wheel drive version, arriving next year, promises improved range and performance. Currently, the Performance model offers an exhilarating drive, though it does suffer from range limitations.

Pros: Stylish design, enjoyable to drive, high-quality build
Cons: Limited range, current efficiency issues
Overall: Worth waiting for the updated rear-wheel drive version

6. Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage stands out with its distinctive design and broad engine options, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids. It offers a good balance of roominess and style, although its hybrid version may be less efficient on the highway. Its appeal lies in its combination of quality and uniqueness compared to its sibling, the Hyundai Tucson.

Pros: Stylish, spacious, high-quality interior
Cons: Hybrid can be thirsty, SUV might be unnecessary for some
Overall: A stylish alternative to the Tucson with minor trade-offs

7. Toyota Yaris Cross

The Toyota Yaris Cross offers a practical size with better rear seat space than the standard Yaris. Its 1.5 hybrid engine delivers decent performance and excellent fuel economy. Though not the quickest, it provides a compact, efficient option for those needing more space than a typical small car.

Pros: Compact yet spacious, excellent fuel economy
Cons: Basic interior, not very fast
Overall: A top choice among small crossovers for its efficiency and practicality

8. Ford Mustang Mach-E

Ford’s Mustang Mach-E competes well against the Tesla Model Y with its impressive range and driving dynamics. While it’s more fun to drive and better built, its high price may be a drawback. Future affordable versions with lower costs are anticipated.

Pros: Enjoyable to drive, well-built, attractive design
Cons: Expensive
Overall: An appealing option if price is not a primary concern

9. Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is popular for its long range and access to the Supercharger network. It offers practical features and a solid driving experience, though it suffers from some quality issues and a less comfortable ride. Despite its flaws, it remains a top choice for electric vehicle enthusiasts.

Pros: Excellent range, spacious, advanced tech
Cons: Ride quality, inconsistent build quality
Overall: A leading EV choice with some room for improvement

10. VW ID. Buzz

The VW ID. Buzz brings a nostalgic design to the electric MPV market. Its retro styling and practical interior make it a charming alternative to typical SUVs. However, its high price and limited range might deter some buyers.

Pros: Unique design, spacious, comfortable
Cons: High cost, limited range
Overall: A nostalgic and practical choice if budget allows

Nov 21

Amazon’s Entry into Car Sales: What It Means for Traditional Dealerships

Hyundai Teams Up with Amazon for Innovative Car Sales

Hyundai has recently announced a partnership with Amazon to streamline the car-buying process, marking a significant shift in automotive sales. This collaboration won’t let you haggle with Alexa, but it promises a more convenient way to purchase a vehicle, either picking it up from a local dealership or having it delivered. This development hints at a major transformation in how cars are sold and raises questions about its impact on traditional dealerships.

The Shift Towards Online Car Buying and Its Implications

The demand for a hassle-free car-buying experience has grown, particularly with the rise of digital platforms. Amazon’s foray into vehicle sales is likely to revolutionize the automotive market by offering a familiar e-commerce interface for car purchases. Lawrence Pier of ComCap notes that while this shift offers convenience, it also places pressure on traditional dealerships to adapt or consolidate in response to the new online competition.

The Continuing Role of Dealerships in the Automotive Ecosystem

Despite Amazon’s new car sales platform, traditional dealerships will remain integral to the automotive industry. They will continue to handle vehicle pick-ups, inventory management, and essential services like repairs. As e-commerce giants like Amazon enter the car market, local dealers will need to enhance their technological capabilities to stay competitive and meet evolving customer expectations.

The Future of Car Sales and Customer Experience

While buying cars online is not entirely new, Amazon’s involvement could make the process more seamless for consumers. The support from OEM dealerships for post-sale issues and warranty repairs will be crucial for ensuring a smooth transition. Overall, if Amazon succeeds in delivering a superior buying experience, it could establish a lasting change in how vehicles are sold, benefiting both buyers and the industry at large.

Nov 21

Discover How Modern Cars Have Grown with This Innovative Tool

The Evolution of Vehicle Size

The trend towards larger vehicles shows no signs of slowing down, with trucks growing in height and length, electric vehicles becoming heavier, and wheel sizes steadily increasing. To help you visualize these changes, a remarkable online tool offers insights into how car dimensions have evolved over the years. Carsized.com, with its tagline “Bringing Car Dimensions to Life,” allows users to compare the sizes of various vehicles, providing a clear perspective on this automotive trend.

Understanding the Shift in Vehicle Dimensions

This tool not only highlights the growing sizes of vehicles but also sheds light on how this shift impacts everyday driving and parking. By comparing current models with their predecessors, users can grasp the substantial changes in vehicle dimensions. As cars continue to expand, this tool offers valuable information for both enthusiasts and those simply curious about the evolving landscape of automotive design.

Nov 20

Top Black Friday Deals on New Cars, Trucks, and SUVs

Unbeatable Black Friday Savings on Vehicles

This Black Friday, shoppers can discover incredible savings on a range of new cars, trucks, and SUVs. Numerous dealerships are offering substantial cash rebates and attractive financing options to make holiday shopping even more rewarding. These deals are designed to catch the eye of buyers looking for the perfect vehicle at a fraction of the regular cost.

Why These Deals Matter

The significant discounts and favorable financing terms available this holiday weekend can provide substantial savings for car buyers. Whether you’re looking for a sleek sedan, a rugged truck, or a versatile SUV, these promotions are tailored to help you get the most value for your money. Take advantage of these limited-time offers to drive home in a new vehicle while keeping your budget intact.

Nov 20

A Thanksgiving Roadkill Guide: The 3 States With the Highest Turkey Populations

Each Thanksgiving, millions of car drivers set out in the hopes their pumpkin pies in the trunk won’t transform into pumpkin soup on the journey and that their pot of mashed potatoes will stay in the pot and not spray a starchy layer of spuds onto the backseats. As we approach another Thanksgiving, some will turn to the roads to hunt their Thanksgiving table’s edible centerpiece, while others hope to avoid hitting a turkey while driving. Here’s a look at the three states in the U.S. with the highest wild turkey populations, according to A-Z Animals.

1. Missouri

A-Z Animals notes there are approximately 6-7 million wild turkeys in the U.S., which can be found in almost every state. Several species of turkeys are native to the U.S. and can mostly be found in “cleared areas” adjacent to or within forests. The website also notes turkeys were once abundant in North America, but deforestation and hunting endangered the birds by the 1970s. In 1972, the National Wild Turkey Federation was formed to protect the remaining population in the U.S. and preserve their habitats. Additionally, the organization supports control measures now that the birds’ populations have rebounded.

In the U.S., the Show Me State ranks as the third most populous state for wild turkeys, estimated at around 350,000. The midwest, particularly areas closer to the mid-South and southeast, is a proverbial hotspot for wild turkeys compared to other parts of the country, including the northeast, Pacific northwest, and southwest. Missouri’s population is estimated to be slightly higher than its neighbors. For instance, populations in Kansas are estimated to be 300,000, while in Kentucky, the figure is between 250,000-300,000.

2. Wisconsin

Continuing the Midwest theme, Wisconsin may be known as the Badger State, but it’s also where hunters (and drivers) can expect to see wild turkeys in abundance. Wisconsin is the No. 2 state for wild turkeys in the U.S., with an estimated population of about 350,000 wild birds roaming the area.

Neighbors, Michigan and Minnesota, have slightly lower populations at 200,000 and 225,000 birds, respectively.

3. Texas

As the adage goes, everything is bigger in Texas, and apparently, that also translates to wild turkey populations. There are about 500,000 wild turkeys in Texas, according to estimates. It may not be the biggest state in the U.S. for land mass, but it’s certainly the largest state with wild turkeys, as they aren’t found in Alaska, according to AZ Animals.

To note, wild turkey populations in Florida and Ohio could be higher, with the website stating that estimated populations in these states could surpass Texas at 700,000 birds. However, the figures also guess these states could have numbers of as little as 100,000 to 150,000.

Which states have the least amount of turkeys?

Drivers who hit the road in several states this Thanksgiving are unlikely to encounter turkey crossings or roadkill along the way.

AZ Animals notes Alaska’s Department of Fish and Game has yet to confirm a wild turkey sighting in the state. The other non-contiguous U.S. state, Hawaii, also lacks native wild turkeys, but some were introduced to Oahu. However, the population of wild turkeys on the Hawaiian islands is unknown.

Delaware, Nevada, and Rhode Island drivers are also unlikely to encounter a wild turkey. Nevada’s population of such birds is estimated to be just 1,200, while populations in Rhode Island (4,000-5,000) and Delaware (6,000) are notably higher but are still relatively limited.

Oct 18

What Blue Smoke from Your Car’s Exhaust Might Indicate

The Function of the Exhaust System

Your vehicle’s exhaust system is essential for managing and expelling combustion byproducts. It includes the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipes, all working together to handle exhaust gases. The catalytic converter is crucial, using metals like palladium and platinum to transform harmful gases into less toxic emissions, greatly reducing environmental impact.

Identifying Unusual Smoke

Spotting smoke from your car’s exhaust often signals engine issues. Typically, you might see a faint white smoke during startup or on cold mornings, which is just condensation evaporating. However, if you notice blue or gray smoke, it likely means that oil is burning in the engine, indicating potential issues with components such as valve seals or piston rings.

Dealing with Exhaust Smoke Problems

Blue smoke generally points to oil consumption in the engine, commonly due to worn-out piston rings or valve seals. Black smoke can mean excessive fuel is being used, possibly from a dirty air filter or malfunctioning fuel injectors. The most alarming is white smoke, which could signify a blown head gasket allowing coolant into the engine, a costly repair if not addressed quickly. Timely diagnosis and repair can prevent more extensive damage and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Oct 18

Kelley Blue Book’s Top 2023 Picks for Teen Cars: Essential Insights for Parents

Finding the Right Car for Teens

Choosing the perfect car for a teenager is a significant decision for parents, as it involves balancing safety, reliability, and affordability. Kelley Blue Book’s 2023 list of the best cars for teens provides valuable guidance in this process, featuring models that excel in crucial areas like safety features, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. These recommendations are designed to help parents select a vehicle that meets their child’s needs while ensuring peace of mind.

Key Considerations for Teen Vehicles

When selecting a car for a teen, safety should be the top priority. Kelley Blue Book highlights models equipped with advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Additionally, these cars offer good fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs, making them practical choices for both the teenager and their parents. With these insights, parents can confidently choose a vehicle that supports their teen’s independence while keeping them safe on the road.

Oct 18

Understanding Ignition Interlock Devices: The Essential Guide to Car Breathalyzers

Introduction to Ignition Interlock Devices

Ignition interlock devices (IIDs), commonly known as car breathalyzers, are crucial tools in preventing drunk driving. Installed in vehicles of individuals convicted of DUI offenses, these devices ensure the car won’t start until the driver successfully passes a breath alcohol test. This preventive measure has become a cornerstone in efforts to enhance road safety by ensuring that only sober drivers can operate their vehicles.

Functionality and Impact of IIDs

An IID requires the driver to perform a breathalyzer test before the engine will start. If the breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) is above the set limit, typically lower than the legal intoxication level, the vehicle remains immobilized. These devices also require periodic retests during drives to maintain continuous proof of sobriety. The implementation of IIDs has shown significant effectiveness in reducing repeat offenses among convicted drunk drivers, thereby increasing overall traffic safety.

Broader Applications and Future Technologies

Besides mandatory installations following DUI convictions, some individuals choose to install IIDs voluntarily to safeguard against potential impaired driving. Looking forward, there is movement towards integrating breathalyzer systems more extensively across new vehicle fleets. Emerging technologies might include touch-based sensors integrated into vehicle controls like steering wheels or seat belts, which could detect alcohol levels more seamlessly and prevent impaired driving proactively.

These advancements in vehicle safety technology represent a significant shift towards more responsible driving cultures and the potential for greatly reduced drunk driving incidents nationwide.

Oct 18

6 Key Advantages and Disadvantages of Daily Driving the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime

The Evolution of the Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius has long been a leader in the hybrid car market, becoming synonymous with eco-friendly driving. Historically viewed as a vehicle focused solely on fuel efficiency, it faced criticism for its lackluster design and performance. However, the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime aims to shift these perceptions with its enhanced styling, improved engine, and advanced fuel-saving features.

Pros and Cons of Driving the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime

Pro: Exceptional Fuel Efficiency

The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime excels in fuel efficiency, boasting an impressive EPA rating of 114 MPGe and around 48 mpg in hybrid mode. During our test drive, we consistently achieved 57 mpg once the all-electric range of 40 miles was depleted. This makes the Prius Prime an excellent choice for those prioritizing fuel savings and eco-friendliness.

Con: Charging Requirements

As a plug-in hybrid, the Prius Prime requires regular charging to maximize its range and efficiency benefits. Fully charging the vehicle with a 240-volt connection takes about four hours, but with a standard 110-volt outlet, the process extends to around 11 hours. This aspect may be a drawback for those without convenient access to charging infrastructure.

Pro: Comfortable and Spacious Interior

Despite its compact size, the 2023 Prius Prime offers a surprisingly comfortable ride for its class. The front seats are well-bolstered and feature 8-way power adjustability, heating, and ventilation. Additionally, the dual-zone climate control system ensures a pleasant driving experience, with automatic activation of comfort features on subsequent drives.

Con: Limited Visibility of the Instrument Panel

One downside noted was the visibility of the driver’s instrument panel. While the speedometer is easily visible, other crucial information at the bottom of the screen can be hard to see when directly facing it. This could affect the ease of accessing certain driving metrics.

Pro: Enhanced Performance

The 2023 model boasts a significant power upgrade with a 220-hp engine, enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds. This is a notable improvement over the previous year’s 10.6-second time, offering a more dynamic and responsive driving experience. The increased power also enhances the vehicle’s ability to pass other cars and merge onto highways with ease.

Pro: Stylish New Design

Contrary to past perceptions of the Prius as “uncool,” the new 2023 model features a sleek and sporty design that has received positive feedback. Its aerodynamic silhouette and low stance contribute to a more contemporary and appealing look. This shift in design has led to remarks from observers noting the car’s modern and stylish appearance.

Conclusion: The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime’s Appeal

The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime redefines the hybrid driving experience with its combination of improved performance, stylish design, and exceptional fuel efficiency. While it has some limitations, such as charging requirements and instrument panel visibility, the overall advancements make it a compelling option for daily driving. This model demonstrates that hybrids can be both practical and appealing, challenging old stereotypes and offering new possibilities for eco-conscious drivers.

Oct 18

This Forgotten Pontiac is a Cheap V8 Car Bargain

When you ask most people their favorite Pontiac models, you’ll often hear names like G8, Grand Prix, and GTO. But one of the last Pontiac sport sedans is a forgotten hero. That status makes it a cheap V8 car today, and the 2004-2005 Pontiac Bonneville GXP is perhaps the prettiest swansong model of our time.

Is the Bonneville GXP supercharged?

The Pontiac Bonneville GXP lasted just two years and was among the final Pontiac models before the brand ended U.S. sales in 2010. The base Bonneville was the halo in Pontiac’s lineup at the time, sitting above the more popular Grand Prix in size and comfort. However, the GXP debuted in 2004 with a 4.6-liter Northstar V8 engine offering 275 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, and it did not come supercharged.

That wild, torque-heavy V8 turned the front tires from rubber to smoke on its way to a 6.9-second sprint to 60 mph. And despite a fairly miserable four-speed automatic transmission, the Bonneville GXP V8 completed the quarter-mile in 15.4 seconds at 91 mph, per FastestLaps data.

A cheap V8 car option in 2023

These days, there aren’t many Bonneville GXPs left in decent condition. Despite the relative rarity though, they’re pretty cheap V8 cars to take home. A 33k-mile version of this cheap V8 sold on Bring-a-Trailer for just over $12,000 earlier this year.

A quick perusal of CarFax listings shows a maximum price of $24,795 for a clean version with under 11,000 miles on the clock. Much above that, the price drops significantly, as a 43,000-mile model reported in great condition is up for $15,000. Of the four models currently on sale, the cheapest V8 Pontiac is available for a mere $4,900.

What killed the Pontiac Bonneville?

In addition to Pontiac’s overall struggles, the Bonneville specifically faced stiff competition both from within General Motors and outside competitors. The V8-powered Chrysler 300 came along in 2005, offering rear-wheel drive. That made it more akin to the muscle-car experience American buyers expect from their V8s. It doesn’t help that the 300 was both cheaper and faster than the Bonneville, at $33,000 for a 340-horsepower V8 version.

Furthermore, Pontiac ran over its own foot with the new Pontiac GTO in 2004. Like the Chrysler, it came with rear-wheel drive, a more powerful V8 engine, and a manual transmission. So if you wanted a fast V8, you could get a GTO or Chrysler 300 for less than a Bonneville. And if you wanted a comfy four-door sedan, the Pontiac Grand Prix GXP came with 303 horsepower, 323 pound-feet of torque, and cost just $30,000, compared to the $36,000 commanded by the Bonneville.

The Bonneville GXP makes a cheap V8 car bargain

Though there aren’t many out there, the Pontiac Bonneville GXP is among the few cheap V8 car bargains you can find today. A follow-up to the Oldsmobile Aurora, this full-size V8 sedan is quintessential GM. Enjoy some cushy comfort in one of the most stylish Pontiac models of the mid-00s.