Category: SUV

Jan 18

N. Korean leader spotted using Mercedes-Benz SUV despite sanctions

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.

North Korea’s state-run Korean Central Television on Jan. 15, 2024, shows the North’s leader Kim Jong-un emerging from what appears to be a Mercedes-Benz SUV.

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 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, 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.

This file image, captured from footage of North Korea's state-run Korean Central Television on Jan. 1, 2024, shows the North's leader getting out of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle to attend a performance celebrating the new year. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)

This file image, captured from footage of North Korea’s state-run Korean Central Television on Jan. 1, 2024, shows the North’s leader getting out of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle to attend a performance celebrating the new year. (For Use Only in the Republic of Korea. No Redistribution) (Yonhap)

Jan 18

Rivian Revs Up Options: Now Lease R1S SUV Alongside R1T Truck

EV manufacturer Rivian Automotive Inc RIVN has expanded its leasing options to include the R1S SUV, alongside its R1T electric truck.

What Happened: Rivian announced the availability of leasing for the R1S in a post on Wednesday. Leasing for Rivian’s vehicles initially began with the R1T truck in November and has now been extended to include the SUV model.

The R1S electric SUV can be leased for 36 months at approximately $1,169 per month. However, leasing is currently limited to specific states, including Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington.

Both the R1S and R1T are premium electric vehicles, and the introduction of leasing options can enhance their appeal to consumers. The all-electric R1T truck has a starting purchase price of $73,000, while the R1S SUV starts at $78,000.

Upfront Costs: Upon signing the lease, customers are required to pay an amount that includes a $7,000 down payment, the first monthly payment, an $895 acquisition fee, and potentially a security deposit (not applicable to all customers, according to Rivian). Additional charges for tax, title, license, and registration fees will also apply.

Dec 18

Conflicting Reports After Police SUV Crashes into St. Louis Bar

Unraveling the Incident

ST. LOUIS – The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department faces scrutiny following a crash involving a police vehicle and a local bar. The incident occurred just before 12:30 a.m. Monday at Bar: PM located on the 7100 block of South Broadway in the Carondelet neighborhood. Two probationary police officers, driving a 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe, lost control of their vehicle and crashed into the bar’s front facade, sparking differing accounts of the crash’s cause.

Eyewitness and Police Accounts

According to police, the driver, fearing he was too close to a parked car, overcorrected and crashed. However, James Pence, who lives above the bar and rushed downstairs after hearing the crash, reported that the officer claimed he swerved to avoid a dog. This discrepancy has added confusion to the incident, with Pence describing the officer as very apologetic and polite.

Post-Crash Tensions and Arrest

Following the crash, Pence was briefly handcuffed over a disagreement about showing his identification to officers, a detail omitted from the police report. Bar co-owner Chad Morris, upset by the crash, confronted the officers, leading to a physical altercation. Police stated that Morris used profanity and shoved an officer, resulting in his arrest for third-degree assault and resisting arrest. He was taken to a hospital due to a pre-existing condition and later charged, held without bond.

Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into the crash continues, with questions about whether the officers were tested for impairment and why their account of the incident changed. Community members, including patrons and friends, helped clean up the bar and protect it from potential looters. St. Louis Alderwoman Megan Green highlighted the bar owners’ importance to the LGBTQIA community and expressed hope for their swift reopening. The bar announced on Facebook that it would be closed Monday night but thanked customers for their support.

Dec 18

Drunk Driver Crashes into SUV Protecting Biden’s Motorcade Near Campaign HQ

Incident Details

On Sunday night, a 46-year-old Wilmington man, suspected of being intoxicated, accidentally collided with a parked SUV that was part of the security detail for President Joe Biden’s motorcade. The incident occurred as President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden were leaving his campaign headquarters. Thankfully, both the Bidens were unharmed during the commotion.

Police and Secret Service Response

The crash happened as Biden was walking from his campaign office to his waiting armored vehicle, with the sedan hitting a U.S. Secret Service SUV stationed to block off the area. Secret Service agents quickly surrounded the driver’s car with their weapons drawn and ordered him to surrender. The Wilmington police have since charged the driver with drunk and inattentive driving.

Impact on the President’s Schedule

The crash, which caused a loud noise and visible damage, briefly startled President Biden, who was quickly escorted into his vehicle by his security detail. Despite the disruption, the incident did not affect the president’s schedule, and he and the First Lady were safely transported home. According to Steve Kopek, a U.S. Secret Service spokesman, the situation was swiftly managed, and the driver was deemed not to pose a serious threat to the president.

Dec 18

Beginning Driver, 16, Rolls SUV In Glen Rock Pinball Crash

Her father told police she was out practicing with him when she made a right too wide off Maple Avenue and their Honda CR-V struck a vehicle stopped at the stop sign on Rodney Street shortly before noon Saturday, Dec. 16, Police Chief Dean Ackermann said.

At that point, “she panicked, overcompensated, lost control of the vehicle, hit a tree and the vehicle rolled over,” the chief said the dad reported.

He and the other driver were fine, but a Glen Rock EMS ambulance took his daughter to Hackensack University Medical Center with injuries that weren’t life-threatening, the chief said.

Glen Rock firefighters and members of Hawthorne Rescue assisted at the scene, he said.

A hydraulic lift tow truck righted the vehicle and removed it from the scene.

Dec 18

2024 Acura ZDX: Performance and Reservations Now Open for This All-Electric SUV

Performance and Exclusive Offers

Acura is introducing the 2024 ZDX with impressive features, including a 325-mile range for the A-Spec model and a powerful 500 horsepower for the dual-motor Type S variant. Expected deliveries for the ZDX are slated for early next year, and Acura is aiming to attract buyers with the Acura Energy Key Card. This exclusive perk offers access to high-profile events such as the Sundance Film Festival and the Long Beach IndyCar race.

Premium Features and Partnerships

The ZDX will come equipped with a top-tier Bang & Olufsen sound system, highlighting Acura’s collaboration with the renowned Danish audio brand. Additionally, Acura is enhancing the ownership experience by providing access to extensive EV charging networks, including EVgo and Electrify America. This move aligns with Honda’s broader strategy to shift its entire vehicle lineup to zero-emission technologies, with a goal of achieving full carbon neutrality by 2050.

Dec 18

Discover the 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades: The Ultimate Off-Road SUV That’s Captivating Enthusiasts!

A Blend of Ruggedness and Refined Design

The 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades Special Edition exemplifies Ford’s dedication to blending tough off-road capability with stylish design. Its exclusive Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat exterior and robust features, including a heavy-duty modular front bumper and steel bash plates, highlight its readiness for any adventure. The vehicle’s impressive features ensure that it stands out in Ford’s impressive lineup.

Interior Comfort and Advanced Technology

Inside, the Bronco Everglades combines durability with comfort, featuring Onyx vinyl seats and a modern 12-inch LCD touchscreen. Enhanced with FordPass™ Connect and a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, it ensures that you stay connected on the go. The updated interior reflects Ford’s commitment to blending rugged functionality with contemporary amenities.

Power and Performance

Under the hood, the 2023 Bronco Everglades houses a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering powerful performance on both highways and off-road trails. The inclusion of the Sasquatch and Mid packages further amplifies its off-road capabilities.

Safety and Practicality

Safety features like AdvanceTrac™ with RSC® and a comprehensive airbag system provide peace of mind, while the pre-collision assist with AEB and tire pressure monitoring add extra layers of protection. Although removing the rear roof panel requires two people, this is a minor trade-off for the vehicle’s exceptional performance and features.

Fuel Efficiency and Value

With a combined fuel efficiency of 18 MPG, the Bronco Everglades offers respectable economy for its class. The SUV’s price reflects its premium status, backed by extensive features and off-road capabilities. The driving experience is both thrilling and versatile, thanks to the Terrain Management System with G.O.A.T. Modes®.

Summary

The 2023 Ford Bronco Everglades stands as a testament to Ford’s engineering prowess, delivering a mix of rugged capability, modern design, and advanced technology. Whether navigating tough terrains or cruising through city streets, it promises an unmatched driving experience. For a detailed view, check out our in-depth walkaround videos showcasing this remarkable SUV in full detail.

Dec 18

Acura Opens Orders for the 2024 ZDX: A Stylish SUV with Performance Options

Reservations Now Available

Acura has launched the reservation process for the 2024 ZDX, which comes in standard and S trims. Interested customers can secure their vehicle either online or at a dealership, with the first deliveries expected in early 2024. This development signifies an exciting new addition to Acura’s SUV range, blending elegance with advanced features.

Power and Performance

The 2024 Acura ZDX S is Acura’s most potent SUV yet, equipped with a dual-motor system that produces 500 horsepower and 601 lb-ft of torque. It boasts a swift acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5.0 seconds. While these specs are impressive, they don’t quite match the extreme performance of rivals like the Rivian R1S or Tesla Model X Plaid.

Pricing and Features

Pricing for the ZDX starts at around $70,000 for the S variant and about $60,000 for the standard model, which features rear-wheel drive with a single motor. Those who reserve a vehicle will receive an Acura Energy Key Card, which includes benefits like discounts from Acura’s entertainment partners and VIP access to events such as the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. The ZDX is fitted with a 102 kWh battery, offering a range of up to 340 miles for the single-motor version and 288 miles for the dual-motor S.

Cutting-Edge Design and Technology

Crafted at Acura’s Los Angeles design studio, the ZDX draws inspiration from the Acura Precision EV Concept, showcasing a sleek, sporty profile. It features an advanced 22-inch digital display that combines the instrument cluster with the central touchscreen and introduces the Bang & Olufsen audio system with 18 speakers. Customers can customize and reserve their ZDX through Acura’s innovative digital sales platform, providing a streamlined purchasing experience.

For an in-depth look and preview of the 2024 Acura ZDX, visit our detailed video coverage. For the latest updates and more information, explore our website or connect with us on Facebook and YouTube.

Dec 18

Porsche’s Macan SUV Transforms into an Electric Powerhouse for 2024

Porsche’s Evolution and Electrification Strategy

Founded in 1948 with the iconic Type 356, Porsche has continually evolved to maintain its relevance and appeal. The brand’s debut electric vehicle, the Taycan, has already made a notable impact, accounting for about nine percent of North American sales. Now, Porsche is shifting its focus to its best-selling Macan, a dynamic SUV that will go electric as a 2024 model, aligning with the company’s ambitious plan to have over 80 percent of its vehicles be all-electric by 2030.

Innovative Manufacturing and Future Challenges

To accelerate its electrification goals, Porsche has enhanced its German manufacturing facilities, increasing its photovoltaic system’s output to support its sustainability efforts. Despite advancements, Porsche is preparing for a diverse future, offering options for internal combustion engines, hybrids, and electric vehicles to adapt to varying market needs and infrastructure developments. However, new EU regulations have led Porsche to halt simultaneous production of gas and electric Macan models in Europe, due to costly updates required for cybersecurity compliance.

A line of Porsche Macan SUVs going around a track corner

Exciting Features and Future Outlook

The upcoming electric Macan promises impressive performance with two motors generating around 600 horsepower in the Turbo variant and an estimated range of 300 miles, surpassing the Taycan’s range. The vehicle will feature advanced systems like brake-by-wire for regenerative braking, although it won’t offer one-pedal driving. While the exact pricing remains undisclosed, it’s expected that the electric Macan will be positioned above the current gas-powered model’s starting price of $62,550.

Dec 18

Japanese Artist Creates Ultra-Lightweight Life-Size Land Rover SUV

A Unique Collaboration: Art Meets Automotive Design

Land Rover has collaborated with Japanese artist Masumi Yamaguchi to unveil an extraordinary tribute to the legendary Land Rover 70 SUV. Yamaguchi’s creation is a life-size model of the iconic SUV, crafted entirely from styrofoam, making it remarkably light and easy to handle. This innovative sculpture not only celebrates the SUV’s return to the market but also showcases Yamaguchi’s talent in transforming everyday materials into a stunning replica.

Masterful Craftsmanship in Styrofoam

The Land Rover 70 replica by Masumi Yamaguchi stands out for its exceptional detail and realism. Every aspect of the vehicle, from its body and tires to the intricate threading and emblems, has been meticulously recreated using painted styrofoam. Although the SUV is visually convincing, its reflectionless windows and matte finish reveal its true nature, highlighting Yamaguchi’s skill in creating an art piece that blurs the lines between reality and illusion.