Category: Sedans

Jul 21

Why the 2023 Subaru WRX May Not Justify Its Higher Price Over the Honda Civic Si

Comparing Costs: 2023 Subaru WRX vs. Honda Civic Si

When evaluating whether the 2023 Subaru WRX justifies its higher price compared to the Honda Civic Si, it’s essential to weigh both the costs and the features each car offers. While the WRX boasts more horsepower, an automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel drive (AWD), the Civic Si provides a sporty driving experience at a more accessible price. Let’s dive into the specifics of both vehicles to understand their value better.

2023 Subaru WRX Pricing Breakdown:

  • Base Model: Starting at $30,605
  • Premium: Starting at $33,105
  • Limited: Starting at $37,495
  • GT: Starting at $43,395

2023 Honda Civic Si Pricing:

  • Civic Si: Starting at $28,800

For a clearer picture, Subaru’s pricing often does not include additional dealership fees or optional accessories, which can affect the final cost. The WRX’s base model, with its standard features and added options, totals around $31,625 after the destination fee. Meanwhile, the Civic Si’s starting price of $28,800, which includes standard features and a reasonable set of options, is more budget-friendly at approximately $29,895 including destination fees.

Features and Performance: WRX vs. Civic Si

The 2023 WRX comes with a more powerful engine and several performance-focused features such as the Recaro front seats and advanced suspension in the GT trim. However, the Civic Si offers commendable fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride, making it an appealing choice for daily driving. While the WRX excels in raw performance and track capability, the Civic Si provides a balanced blend of sportiness and practicality at a more affordable price.

In essence, the WRX’s higher cost may be justified for enthusiasts seeking maximum performance and advanced features. Still, for those prioritizing comfort, fuel economy, and cost-effectiveness, the Civic Si presents a compelling alternative.

Jul 21

Why the 2023 Toyota Corolla Sedan Might Be the Smarter Choice Over the GR Corolla

Affordability and Value

The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla, with its impressive 300 horsepower and all-wheel drive, is a standout in the hot hatchback segment. However, it carries a steep price tag starting at $35,900, which may be out of reach for some buyers. In contrast, the Toyota Corolla sedan offers a more budget-friendly starting price of $21,700 for the base SE model, making it a compelling option for those seeking a more economical vehicle without compromising on everyday performance.

Lower Markup and Practicality

The GR Corolla’s exclusivity has led to significant dealer markups, often adding $10,000 to $20,000 above its MSRP. This inflated cost can make the GR Corolla a less attractive option for value-conscious buyers. On the other hand, the Corolla sedan avoids such markups and provides a more accessible entry point into Toyota’s lineup, catering to those who prioritize practicality and cost-efficiency.

Convenience and Efficiency

While the GR Corolla features a performance-oriented manual transmission, the Corolla sedan offers a user-friendly continuously variable transmission (CVT). This CVT includes a “launch gear” for smooth acceleration, eliminating the need for a third pedal and making driving more accessible for those who prefer automatic transmissions. Additionally, the Corolla sedan boasts impressive fuel efficiency, with an EPA estimate of up to 32 mpg city and 41 mpg highway, far surpassing the GR Corolla’s 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

A Balanced Choice for Everyday Driving

For many buyers, the GR Corolla’s high-performance features may not be necessary for daily driving. The Toyota Corolla sedan delivers a practical and economical solution that meets the needs of those who value cost-effectiveness and fuel efficiency. If the high price and potential dealer markups of the GR Corolla seem excessive, the Corolla sedan presents a sensible alternative that doesn’t sacrifice reliability or efficiency.

Jul 21

Experience Turbocharged Thrills with Unbeatable 10-Year Warranties on These Manual Transmission Cars

Rediscovering the Joy of Manual Transmissions

Even as automatics dominate the market, the joy of a manual transmission isn’t lost—especially not with models like the 2023 Hyundai Elantra N and the Kia Forte GT. These cars defy the stereotype that manual transmissions are only for expensive sports cars. They deliver exhilarating drives without breaking the bank and come with a robust 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, ensuring they’re both fun and sensible investments.

2023 Hyundai Elantra N: Affordable Performance with Nürburgring Pedigree

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra N is a celebration of speed and agility. Developed partially on the legendary Nürburgring, this model is equipped with a 276-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, a limited-slip differential, and high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. It’s not just equipped; it’s engineered to thrill, offering a suite of performance features at a price that undercuts the Honda Civic Type R by $10,000, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts looking for serious performance on a budget.

2023 Kia Forte GT: Everyday Sportiness with a Turbocharged Kick

While the Kia Forte GT might not match the Elantra N in raw power, its 201-horsepower turbocharged engine still promises plenty of fun. It offers a more relaxed ride compared to its Hyundai counterpart but maintains a spirited edge with its manual transmission. It’s an appealing option for those who prefer a blend of sporty performance and daily driving comfort, all packaged with a price tag that makes it accessible to a wide range of buyers.

Long-term Reliability with Exceptional Warranty Coverage

Perhaps the most compelling feature of these vehicles is their industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a testament to the confidence Hyundai and Kia have in their products. This warranty covers significant engine and transmission components but doesn’t extend to normal wear items like clutches, unless a defect causes premature failure. Moreover, these models come with comprehensive coverage including a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, paint, rust, and perforation warranties, and even a 5-year/unlimited-mileage roadside assistance plan. This extensive coverage ensures that owners can enjoy their sporty rides with peace of mind.

These manual transmission cars not only provide an engaging driving experience but also come with the security of extensive warranties, making them excellent choices for driving enthusiasts who value both performance and reliability. Whether you’re shifting gears through city streets or cruising on the highway, these cars prove that manual transmissions still have a significant place in the modern automotive landscape.

Jul 20

The 2023 Nissan Sentra: Stagnant Model Struggles to Keep Up

A Look at the 2023 Nissan Sentra

The 2023 Nissan Sentra remains a fixture in the compact car market, but it struggles to make a significant impact. Despite its reliability and modest starting price, the Sentra hasn’t seen much in the way of updates since its last major redesign in 2020. In a segment bustling with innovation, its lack of fresh features and performance enhancements makes it seem like it’s lagging behind the competition.

Features and Performance: A Closer Examination

Standard features of the 2023 Sentra include the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. However, its engine, producing only 149 horsepower and paired with a CVT transmission, delivers average performance and fuel efficiency at best. Unlike competitors like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla, the Sentra lacks a sporty variant or hybrid option, which might be a turn-off for those seeking more excitement or eco-friendly alternatives.

Value and Market Position

Although the Sentra’s starting price is attractively low, positioning it as a budget-friendly choice, it faces stiff competition from newer models offering advanced features and performance. For buyers valuing affordability over excitement, it remains a viable option, but those seeking cutting-edge technology or dynamic driving experiences might find more appealing choices in the market. To stay competitive, the Sentra could benefit from a refreshed powertrain or an electrified version to add more allure to its practical value.

Jul 20

What Is the Range of the Cheapest EV?

The most affordable electric vehicle has a surprisingly impressive driving range. Is it worth getting?

The cheapest electric vehicle on the market is going to be discontinued. Chevrolet’s Bolt EV is easily one of the most controversial vehicles in recent memory. The electric hatchback was a hit with consumers until its reputation went up in flames. Still, some consumers want the EV to stick around. How far is the Chevy Bolt EV’s driving range?

Chevy Bolt EV: Range

Chevy’s 2023 Bolt EV small electric hatchback has an estimated 259 miles of range. That’s incredible for any electric vehicle. The issue with the Bolt EV is its reliability. Chevrolet’s electric vehicle is the subject of one of the largest mass recalls in recent history.

General Motors recalled Bolt EV and Bolt EUV models due to battery fires. Electric vehicle battery fires are becoming a common issue across a wide variety of brands. Battery electric vehicles can overheat and become engulfed in flames because of their unique powertrain systems.

Chevrolet gave the Bolt EV a major update and a price cut but ultimately decided to kill the nameplate at the end of the year, with its reputation severely damaged. Despite its more affordable price and new design, some consumers can’t shake the feeling that it’s unreliable. It’s become associated with too much controversy to succeed. That being said, the Bolt EV’s specs aren’t indicative of a vehicle destined for the great junkyard in the sky.

Chevy Bolt EV: Price and Specs

Chevrolet’s Bolt EV starts at $26,500. It makes 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Chevy’s electric vehicle offers an excellent driving range for its price. It’s the most affordable electric vehicle on the market, and it has more range than most drivers with access to charging stations need.

Bolt EV models qualify for the federal electric vehicle tax credit, making the EV even more affordable. After the $7,500 incentive, the Bolt EV starts at around $19,000. It comes with heated power outside mirrors and a tire pressure monitoring system. As a result, the Bolt EV provides incredible value for the money. It also has a surprisingly roomy cabin and great visibility.

Should you get the cheapest EV?

Chevy’s Bolt EV is a great electric vehicle on paper. The big issue with the Bolt EV is that the affordable electric vehicle has a history of unreliability. Range anxiety is one thing. Expecting your vehicle to spontaneously combust is another thing entirely.

If the Bolt EV were more reliable, it’d easily be one of the best entry-level electric vehicles on the market. Chevy had a hit on its hands. Unfortunately, the nameplate’s reputation was too damaged to recover from the battery fire debacle.

The range and price of the cheapest EV on the market make it a good deal. That being said, its recalls will cause some consumers to steer clear of the electric hatchback before its discontinuation. Does Chevy have a new electric vehicle in the works that could take the place of the Bolt EV?

Jul 11

Why Did the Chrysler 300 SRT8 Get Discontinued?

The Chrysler 300 SRT8 took the sleepy, casual presence of the 300 sedan and added a big, snarling Mopar V8. The result? It was a sleeper sedan with lots of horsepower and even more character. So, why did Chrysler put the posh monster out to pasture? Also, is a used model like a 2014 Chrysler 300 SRT8 worth consideration compared to its sibling, the Dodge Charger?

When did Chrysler discontinue the 300 SRT8?

The last Chrysler 300 SRT8s rolled off the line for the 2014 model year. At that point, the LD-platform sleeper sedan had graduated from the 6.1L mill to the tire-roasting 470-horsepower 6.4L Apache V8.

Believe it or not, Chrysler produced a 2015 model, but not for the North American market. Instead, the posh V8 sleeper car and its upgraded ZF transmission headed to over 16 countries in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

As a result of the 300 SRT8’s trip to the chopping block, the only way to get your big-motor Mopar sedan fix was to opt for the Dodge Charger. The Charger, which also rode on the LD platform after 2011, offered an SRT8 with the 6.4L mill for the 2012 model year. Moreover, the Charger has continued to pack the 6.4L V8 in the R/T Scat Pack trims since 2015.

Why did Chrysler discontinue the 300 SRT8?

Chrysler discontinued its power-mad SRT sedan due to lackluster North American sales, model redundancy with the Dodge Charger, and a five-year plan to change the brands. As a result, the largest mill fans could get in the 300 between 2014 and 2022 was the optional 363-horsepower 5.7L Hemi V8.

Unfortunately, the only time after 2014 that a factory Chrysler 300 packed anything more muscular than the 5.7L V8 was the latest 300C, a swan-song sleeper sedan. Chrysler’s parent company, Stellantis, announced it would discontinue the 300 and Dodge Charger sedans after the 2023 model year, but not before the marque celebrated with the 300C special edition.

Moreover, the 300C marked the return of the 6.4L V8, albeit with 485 horsepower instead of 470. Still, the special edition is limited to just 2,000 copies for the American market and 200 in Canada, per Car and Driver.

How much is the Chrysler 300 SRT8?

Depending on the generation and model year, a used Chrysler 300 SRT8 with average mileage could cost well under $10,000. For instance, Kelley Blue Book says the 2005 model has a fair purchase price of around $7,836. Of course, later models demand a higher amount.

The last U.S. model, the 2014 Chrysler 300 SRT8, has a fair value of about $25,837. Still, with 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque on tap, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better sleeper sedan.