A pair of stolen BMW SUVs led to a pair of crashes Monday evening, according to local police agencies.
According to the Orono Police Department, around 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 15, officers responded to a stolen vehicle report on Togo Road related to a BMW SUV. An officer on Shoreline Drive spotted a vehicle matching the description.
Choosing a used small SUV requires knowledge of the most reliable models to ensure a wise investment. Consumer Reports (CR) has updated its recommendations for the best 3-year-old small SUVs, identifying eight mainstream and five luxury options.
Consumer Reports identifies the most dependable 3-year-old vehicles through its Annual Auto Surveys, which gather member data. These SUVs excel in reliability, road performance, fuel economy, and advanced safety features like forward collision warning (FCW), automatic emergency braking (AEB), blind-spot warning (BSW), lane departure warning (LDW), and lane-keeping assistance (LKA).
Here are the top small non-luxury SUVs, listed alphabetically by manufacturer:
These luxury small SUVs also made the list, arranged alphabetically by manufacturer:
Price Range: $19,625 – $27,925
Owner Reported MPG: 29 mpg
Consumer Reports highlights the Subaru Crosstrek as a raised Impreza hatchback with rugged styling. It offers a smooth ride, good fuel efficiency, and a spacious rear seat. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a CVT, provides 29 mpg overall. Although the seats lack lumbar support, the user-friendly infotainment system and standard safety features, like FCW and AEB (with automatic transmission), make it a reliable choice. BSW and RCTW are optional across all trims.
Price Range: $21,100 – $26,475
Owner Reported MPG: 28 mpg
The Subaru Forester is known for its roomy interior, excellent visibility, and simple controls. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and CVT deliver 28 mpg overall. Despite not excelling in acceleration or engine noise, it provides a comfortable ride with responsive handling. The infotainment system is straightforward, and FCW and AEB are standard, while BSW and RCTW are optional, so look for models equipped with these features.
Both the 2021 Crosstrek and Forester cater to active lifestyles with features like 8.7 inches of ground clearance, Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for all-weather capability, and X-Mode for handling tough winter conditions. Some trims even offer dual-function X-Mode for enhanced off-road performance.
Both models have earned high safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Crosstrek received a Top Safety Pick award, while the Forester was named a Top Safety Pick+.
Consumer Reports recommends the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek and Forester as top picks for used small SUVs. Their combination of advanced features and high safety ratings makes them perfect for adventurous drivers, particularly during the winter months.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The surge in thefts involving Kia and Hyundai models is becoming increasingly troubling, with reckless actions escalating the issue. The trend, driven by the so-called “Kia Boys,” reveals how these vehicles are easily stolen and then used in increasingly serious crimes. This alarming behavior is not just about theft but also includes intentional crashes and dangerous joyrides.
The phenomenon of stolen Kia and Hyundai models has spread quickly, largely fueled by viral content on TikTok. Youngsters, many as young as 12, are driving these stolen cars in reckless ways—speeding, performing dangerous stunts, and causing significant damage. This reckless joyriding has resulted in numerous accidents, with some collisions tragically leading to fatalities.
In a disturbing twist, these stolen vehicles are now being used to intentionally crash into storefronts. Perpetrators slam through shop windows to loot merchandise before abandoning the cars. Recent incidents include a gun shop heist in Canal Fulton, Ohio, and thefts from a tobacco and marijuana shop in Everett, Washington.
To combat the rising thefts, Kia and Hyundai have introduced several preventive measures. For models lacking engine immobilizers—devices that prevent unauthorized starting—owners can purchase a security kit from Hyundai or use steering wheel locks provided by both brands. While newer models now come with standard immobilizers, older vehicles without this feature remain vulnerable.
During a recent visit to Wilmington, Delaware, President Joe Biden was unexpectedly startled by a sedan crashing into a Secret Service SUV as he was heading to his armored vehicle. The incident occurred as the motorcade was preparing to leave Biden’s campaign headquarters on a busy Sunday night.
The collision happened while the motorcade was managing street closures to secure a clear path for the president’s departure. As the sedan collided with the blocking SUV, President Biden, taken aback by the loud impact, watched as Secret Service agents swiftly intervened, surrounding the vehicle and ordering the driver to surrender. Despite the chaos, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden were quickly escorted to their vehicle and left the scene without any injuries or delays.
The local Wilmington police managed the situation, and initial reports suggest the Secret Service SUV, an armored Suburban, sustained minimal damage. The motorcade, consisting of around 20 to 30 vehicles, including armored Cadillac Escalades and Chevy Suburbans, continued its route as planned. These vehicles, heavily modified for security with features like bulletproof glass and enhanced communications, played a crucial role in ensuring the president’s safety.
Back in the 1970s, when simply having a car was a status symbol in South Korea, a four-door passenger sedan was the car of choice. And Hyundai Motor Co.’s Pony, the country’s first mass-produced sedan, was a dream car for many.
Fast forward more than 50 years, it is no exaggeration to say that Koreans are in love with sport utility vehicles, so much so that six out of every 10 vehicles on the roads are SUVs. Sedans are now out in the cold.
According to Seoul-based automotive data provider CarIsYou, SUVs accounted for 61.4% of all vehicle registrations in Korea in the first 11 months of this year.
With less than one month to go before the year’s end, the ratio of SUVs versus the total will certainly rise above the 60% threshold for the first time on an annual basis, analysts said.
Just a decade ago, SUVs accounted for about a third of the Korean car market, with new SUV sales at 460,470 units in 2014. Since then, the SUV proportion has steadily increased to break the 40% resistance line in 2017 and rise above 50% just a few years later.
In 2019, SUVs outsold sedans for the first time in Korea. The gap widened to 121,000 more SUVs than sedans in 2020, and then a difference of 242,000 units in 2021 and 343,000 vehicles last year.
Mesmerized by their high fuel efficiency and comfortable ride – this as a result of technological advancement – and versatile use of space inside, SUVs have become the name of the game in Korea’s vehicle sales market.
According to the Korea Automotive Technology Institute, the appeal of sport utility vehicles in Korea is stronger than the global trend. SUVs accounted for 40.8% of the world’s automobile sales in 2022.
CarIsYou data showed new SUV registrations, including those of recreational vehicles (RVs) with more seats, reached 856,362 units in the January-November period – the highest since 2014 and above last year’s full-year number of 837,948.
Given the average monthly SUV registration of 77,851 units in the first 11 months of this year and the usually stronger SUV sales in the fourth quarter compared to the three preceding quarters, this year’s new SUV registrations are sure to exceed the 900,000 milestone, industry officials said.
Of the 10 best-selling cars sold in the January-November period, seven were SUVs, according to CarIsYou.
Hyundai Motor’s luxury sedan Grandeur was the bestseller, followed by affiliate Kia Corp.’s Sorento SUV, Kia’s Carnival MPV and Kia’s compact Sportage SUV.
Korea’s three leading carmakers – Hyundai, Kia and KG Mobility Corp. – said this summer they are upping the ante in their battle to take a greater share of the fast-growing mid-sized SUV market by launching sleek and stylish new models.
In September, KG Mobility, which specializes in SUVs, launched the Torres EVX, its first EV model since the company changed its name from Ssangyong Motor Co. in March.
A month earlier, Hyundai Motor, Korea’s top carmaker, started selling its latest, all-new Santa Fe – a drastically revamped flagship model, which fiercely competes with the Kia Sorento.
The showdown comes as foreign carmakers, including Toyota, Tesla and Mercedes-Benz, also bring their flagship models to challenge Korean peers on the SUV turf.
Mid-sized SUVs have become increasingly popular among Korean drivers as family cars thanks to their affordable prices, and their sales growth will continue into next year, industry watchers said.
While new Subaru vehicles are known for their advanced features and sleek designs, their higher price tags might be out of reach for some buyers. Opting for a used Subaru can be a savvy choice, especially if you target models with proven reliability. Among these, the Subaru Outback stands out with several used model years earning high praise for their performance and durability.
According to data from CarComplaints.com, the Subaru Outback boasts multiple model years recognized for their excellence. The Outback models from 2006 to 2012, along with the 2017 version, are highlighted for their solid performance, despite some complaints. The 2017 model, while facing more issues like battery problems and cracked windshields, remains a cost-effective option as many repairs are minor or covered by warranty.
In addition to the Outback, the Subaru Forester and Legacy also have commendable used model years. The Forester models from 2004, 2005, 2007, and 2008 are noted for their reliability, with fewer major issues compared to the Outback. Similarly, the 2006, 2007, and 2011 Legacy models offer dependable performance, though they may experience issues like transmission failures or head gasket leaks, often appearing after significant mileage.
When searching for a used Subaru, thorough research is essential. Start by test-driving the vehicle to check for any unusual noises and ensure all features work correctly. Additionally, obtain a vehicle history report and have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic to avoid hidden issues and ensure a smart purchase. An extended warranty might offer extra peace of mind, but it’s crucial to read the terms carefully before committing.
For more detailed insights on reliable Subaru models, check out our guides on the best Forester and Outback models under specific budgets and their most reliable years.
Honda’s new entry-level SUV is the 2023 HR-V. So it wouldn’t make sense to replace it now. But is Honda unveiling its WR-V, a small SUV that actually looks like an SUV? The 2024 WR-V will begin selling in Japan, as well as in India as the Elevate. It is a great entry-level SUV, so the question is, “Could it be coming to the U.S. to replace the current HR-V?”
The WR-V is similar in some ways to the HR-V but with more swagger. The Elevate/WR-V was first shown in India in June. With the announcement that it will sell in Japan next year, Honda begins the slow rollout of its smallest SUV. Right now, the Honda HR-V is its least-expensive model, with an MSRP of $23,800.
The WR-V uses the Honda Global Small Car platform, so it is an HR-V underneath. That also underpins the Civic. But the styling is pretty far removed from the HR-V. It is chunkier, with a taller front end, and side windows stopping at the C-pillars.
In fact, the hood almost has no slope, jettisoning almost straight out from the windshield. The round wheel openings are gone. Instead, Honda sought more squareness, tying into taller rockers with satin inserts.
Also taken from the HR-V is the WR-V’s 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, according to Australia’s CarsGuide. With 120 hp and 106 lb-ft, two transmissions will be available. More likely, should it come here, it would be a turbocharged version of the 1.5 with 180 hp, and a hybrid should be around the corner.
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual livens the WR-H up. But we wouldn’t see the six-speed. However, the new 2023 HR-V does offer all-wheel drive. Previous HR-V SUVs had a bit of torque punch but didn’t feel like a Civic. This new HR-V is kicking things up a notch or two.
So, the dilemma is that Honda has a new small SUV in the States. While in Japan and India, it offers something more aggressive with the same platform, featuring the preferred Land Rover-like proportions. Will America get the WR-V as an HR-V, or does it have something else up its sleeve? It is too soon to know.
But it is always enticing to find that domestic automakers (and Honda is domestic with three factories in Ohio, three in North Carolina, and one each in Indiana, Arizona, and South Carolina) have something different from what is available here. We expect that by 2026 or so, when an HR-V refresh is in store, we might see a version of the WR-V. But then again…
The post What Is the 2024 Honda WR-V? Ripe for Coming to the U.S. As a New HR-V appeared first on MotorBiscuit.
Land Rover has long been celebrated for crafting robust and versatile SUVs, and the 2024 Defender 130 continues this tradition with unmatched capability and luxury. While earlier models emphasized rugged utility, the Defender now offers a blend of strength and sophistication, making it a standout in the SUV market. This latest model, available in various trims, showcases Land Rover’s commitment to merging advanced engineering with comfort and style.
What sets the Defender 130 apart from typical SUVs is its exceptional off-road prowess. Unlike standard vehicles that can handle rough terrain, the Defender 130 is engineered for extreme conditions, backed by a rigorous testing regime that spans over 2.4 million miles. With its aluminum monocoque chassis and advanced suspension system, this SUV offers superior durability and handling, ensuring it thrives on the toughest trails, from the icy Arctic Circle to desert dunes.
The Defender 130 boasts three distinct powertrains, catering to different performance needs. Options include a turbocharged four-cylinder, a robust inline-six, and a powerful supercharged V8, providing versatility for various driving experiences. Enhanced with features like Terrain Response and Hill Descent Control, the Defender 130 is equipped to tackle any adventure with ease, all while offering ample cargo space and seating for up to eight passengers.
While the Defender 130 commands a premium price starting around $70,000, it justifies the cost with its unique design and capabilities. Compared to competitors like the BMW X6 and Porsche Cayenne, it offers a rare combination of luxury, performance, and off-road readiness. For those seeking an elite SUV that blends adventure with sophistication, the Defender 130 presents a compelling choice.
In the ever-expanding SUV market, finding an affordable model without sacrificing quality can be a challenge. For the 2024 model year, several SUVs offer excellent value, but the Subaru Crosstrek, though not the cheapest, stands out as a top contender. As the fourth most affordable SUV available, it provides a compelling mix of features and reliability despite its increased price.
While the Subaru Crosstrek may not top the affordability charts, its blend of performance, safety, and overall value makes it a noteworthy option. The increased price of the Crosstrek is matched by its enhanced features and durability, setting it apart from other budget-friendly choices. When assessing the best value for your money in the 2024 SUV lineup, the Crosstrek’s reputation for quality and performance makes it a strong competitor.