Jul 12

2023 Kia Niro: The Most Affordable New Hybrid SUV with Impressive Fuel Efficiency

Affordable Hybrid SUV Options

Finding a budget-friendly SUV can be challenging, and the task becomes even more daunting when searching for a new hybrid model. Fortunately, the 2023 Kia Niro stands out as an exceptional choice in this category, combining affordability with outstanding fuel efficiency. Starting at just $26,590, the Niro is not only one of the most economical hybrid SUVs available but also offers remarkable gas mileage, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers.

Fuel Efficiency and Features

The 2023 Kia Niro Hybrid boasts an EPA-estimated 53 MPG city and 54 MPG highway, translating to a combined 53 MPG. With an 11.1-gallon tank, drivers can expect a range of approximately 588 miles on a full tank, highlighting its efficiency. Beyond its cost-effectiveness and fuel economy, the Niro Hybrid comes well-equipped with features like remote keyless entry, blind-spot detection, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as standard, enhancing both safety and convenience for daily driving.

Why Choose the Kia Niro Hybrid?

Kia’s expertise in delivering value shines through with the 2023 Niro Hybrid, which stands out not just for its low starting price but also for its practicality and efficiency. Ideal for those who prioritize fuel savings and daily utility over expansive cabin space, the Niro Hybrid serves as a reliable and economical alternative to larger SUVs. For drivers looking to maximize their budget while enjoying a modern hybrid experience, the Kia Niro is a worthy contender.

Jul 12

Elderly Driver Rescued After SUV Overturns in Oak Hills Parking Lot

Accident Details

An elderly man was rushed to a local hospital following a dramatic SUV accident in Oak Hills. The incident occurred around 3:19 PM on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, on the 6500 block of Caliente Road. The SUV, a Lexus, veered off a retaining wall while in the parking lot of the Keller Williams Realty building, causing it to overturn and rest on its side in an adjacent empty lot.

Emergency Response and Investigation

San Bernardino County firefighters promptly responded to the scene, rescuing the trapped driver from the overturned vehicle. He was then transported to the hospital by ground ambulance for further evaluation and care. The Hesperia Police Department is currently investigating the cause of the accident to determine how it occurred and prevent future incidents.

Jul 12

New Toyota Land Cruiser might be four-cylinder only

We don’t hear much from Kurdistan outside of conflicts between the Kurds in the north of Iraq and the Iraqi and Turkish governments. Turns out the region is the home of a relatively lively car blog that knows its way to a scoop. After digging up details of the LC300 Land Cruiser before the new truck’s debut, the blog is back, via Australia’s Drive, with what’s purported to be a leaked screenshot outlining engines for the coming 2024 Land Cruiser. Let’s get the info that some might consider bad news out of the way up front: The screenshot shows three engines, all of them bored out with just four cylinders. If this is the way things go down, the Land Cruiser will be without a six-cylinder in the lineup in the U.S. for the first time since the nameplate arrived here.

There’s some context to go with this. The Land Cruiser we’re getting is what’s been known as the Land Cruiser Prado, or just Prado, in many overseas markets, and it will continue to be known as such outside the U.S. As a junior version of the full-size Land Cruiser that’s historically been our only fare, the first-gen Prado only got four-cylinder mills. Even when a V6 debuted underhood with the second-gen Prado, the four-cylinder offerings always outnumbered the sixes.

The engines in the screenshot start with the 1GD-FTV, a 2.8-liter turbodiesel that powers the current Toyota Prado SUV, Toyota Hilux pickup, and Toyota Fortuner SUV in Australia. The second engine is the 2TR-FE, anticipated to be a 2.7-liter four-cylinder gas engine allotted to entry-level mill in markets where there will be Prado trim steps. The Land Cruiser’s always been sold here with one engine at a time, so if U.S. shoppers get a choice, that would be another departure.

The third engine is figured to be a turbocharged 2.4-liter gas engine, the T24A-FTS four-cylinder we know from the new Tacoma pickup in hybrid form. In the Tacoma, the setup comes in three outputs: 228 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque; 270 hp and 310 lb-ft; or 278 hp and 317 lb-ft. When the Land Cruiser retired in the U.S. after the 2021 model year, it drove off with a 5.7-liter V8 making 381 hp and 401 lb⋅ft. The new version will be a comedown in power, but remember, we expect the new model to be substantially lighter than the 5,815-pound 200-Series Land Cruiser.

Rationalizing the engine lineup to four-cylinder-only could make production easier, and in the U.S., it could help keep distance between the Land Cruiser and the 2024 Lexus GX 550h. The Lexus uses a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 hybrid making 340 hp and 479 lb-ft. It’s also possible a six-cylinder joins the Land Cruiser lineup later.

Drive reports that new Land Cruiser production is expected to commence in November for certain markets like Europe, dealer arrivals starting early next year.

Jul 12

Updated SUV Definition to Clarify Taxation Rules, Say Experts

Enhanced Definition for Greater Tax Clarity

In a move to streamline taxation on utility vehicles, industry experts have welcomed a refined definition of SUVs by the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council. The updated criteria specify that an SUV must now meet three key parameters: a length of at least 4 meters, an engine capacity exceeding 1,500 cc, and an unladen ground clearance of 170 mm or more. This adjustment aims to eliminate ambiguity in the tax structure, providing a more precise basis for applying additional cess over the standard GST rate.

Implications for Vehicle Pricing and Industry Impact

The revised definition is expected to impact vehicle pricing, as the maximum cess of 22% will be uniformly applied to all SUVs meeting the new standards. This change clarifies that the high cess rate applies to vehicles fitting the updated criteria, irrespective of the manufacturer’s classification. Although companies like Maruti Suzuki may adjust their pricing strategies in response, the industry anticipates that the clear definition will enhance consistency and transparency in the tax system.

Jul 11

1 dead after SUV plummets over cliffside in Rancho Palos Verdes

At least one person is confirmed dead after a vehicle plummeted over a cliffside in Rancho Palos Verdes Tuesday afternoon, authorities announced.

Rescue personnel responded to the scene near Palos Verdes Drive West and Calle Entradero around 2:45 p.m. according to L.A. County Fire.

It is unclear what led to the crash, but when crews arrived, they found what appeared to be a white sport utility vehicle 150 feet over the cliffside.

Aerial video from Sky5 showed the vehicle’s front end completely flattened with debris strewn across the cliffside. In video obtained by KTLA, a heavy presence of police and firefighters can be seen above the cliff, as well as damage done to the fence that the SUV allegedly drove crashed through.

  • One person died after their vehicle plummeted 150 feet off a cliffside in Rancho Palos Verdes on July 11, 2023. (KTLA)
    First responders on a Rancho Palos Verdes cliffside after an SUV plunged 150 feet below, killing at least one person in the car on July 11, 2023. (KTLA)
    Damage seen to a fence that an SUV allegedly crashed through before plunging off a cliffside and killing at least one of the vehicle’s occupants in Rancho Palos Verdes on July 11, 2023. (KTLA)

Authorities have not said if there were any other passengers in the vehicle.

Jul 11

Tragic SUV Plunge Claims Life in Rancho Palos Verdes

Fatal Accident on Cliffside Road

A devastating accident occurred in Rancho Palos Verdes Tuesday afternoon when an SUV plunged off a cliff, resulting in one fatality. The incident was reported around 3:30 p.m. by the Los Angeles County Fire Department, who arrived at the scene near Palos Verdes Drive and Calle Entradero. The vehicle fell about 150 feet down the rugged hillside, leaving the scene in a state of wreckage.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts

Emergency responders confirmed that one person lost their life in the crash, although details about the victim or the number of occupants remain unclear. Images from the scene revealed the SUV’s front end severely damaged, with fire crews meticulously examining the debris. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the circumstances of this tragic event and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Jul 11

Weird crash: SUV gets skewered by guardrail in Roosevelt

ROOSEVELT−An SUV traveling on Route 571 in the borough drifted off the road Sunday and caught the sharp end a guardrail that skewered the vehicle, but left whoever was in it uninjured, authorities said.

The crash happened about 4:30 p.m. on what’s also known as North Rochdale Avenue, said Sgt. Philip Curry of the New Jersey State Police.

The crash involved only one vehicle and no injuries, Curry said.

After striking the barrier lengthwise, the SUV continued along the same path, ending in what appears to be in the middle of the section of guardrail, based on photos from the Millstone Township Fire Department. About 20 feet of the guardrail was left sticking out of the rear of the car.

No further information was released about the driver, possible passengers or whether any tickets were issued.

Jul 11

SUV reported stolen with infant inside in Alabama may have rolled into thick brush, police say

An SUV that was reported stolen with an infant inside in Alabama may have instead rolled into thick brush where it lay hidden, AL.com reported Tuesday.

Officers found the SUV in vines Tuesday morning, roughly 100 yards (90 meters) from where it was reported stolen about 12 hours earlier, Parrish police Chief Danny Woodard told the news site. The girl, 9-month-old Harlow Darby Freeman, was safe in her car seat.

Investigators now say it’s likely the car was not stolen and Harlow was not kidnapped. Instead, the SUV may have rolled down an embankment when the driver failed to put it in park, Woodard said. He said police were still investigating and planned to conduct more interviews.

“This is not something that happens in a small town like Parrish,’’ he said. “This is a strange turn of events.”

Parrish is about 40 miles (64 km) northwest of Birmingham. Dozens of officers began searching for Harlow late Monday after her family reported the SUV stolen outside a house. The girl’s father left her in the vehicle while he ran into a friend’s house, police said.

Multiple searches of the area did not turn up the vehicle until the next morning.

One of the SUV’s windows was broken, providing the girl with ventilation overnight, Woodard told AL.com. She was found dehydrated but otherwise in good condition.

Jul 11

What to Expect from the 2024 BMW X7: Pricing and Features Revealed

Base Model: The 2024 BMW X7 xDrive 40i

The 2024 BMW X7 xDrive 40i stands as a premier choice among luxury SUVs, blending exceptional performance with upscale amenities. Starting from a competitive price, this model showcases BMW’s commitment to delivering the “Ultimate Driving Machine,” featuring a robust twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine that delivers 375 horsepower. This powertrain, coupled with a mild-hybrid system, accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds while maintaining an impressive 21 mpg combined fuel efficiency.

Inside, the X7 xDrive 40i offers a lavish interior with three rows of seating and ample cargo space, making it ideal for families or long trips. Its handling benefits from a two-axle self-leveling air suspension and all-wheel drive, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride in various conditions. Notable features include a 14.9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an automatic four-zone climate control system, adding to the comfort and convenience of every journey.

Premium Upgrades: The 2024 BMW Alpina XB7

For those seeking unparalleled luxury and performance, the 2024 BMW Alpina XB7 delivers a compelling package. Starting at $149,400, the XB7 is powered by a formidable twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces a staggering 631 horsepower, reaching 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds. Its distinctive Alpina styling, including 23-inch turbine wheels and custom paint options, sets it apart from the standard SUV offerings.

The XB7’s interior is a testament to craftsmanship, featuring Merino leather seats, a Nappa leather instrument panel, and luxurious wood trim. It includes advanced features such as Alpina Sport Suspension and Integral Active Steering with rear-axle steering, enhancing both driving dynamics and comfort. Additional amenities like a Harmon Kardon 16-speaker surround sound system and five-zone climate control ensure that every ride is as enjoyable as it is luxurious.

Customization Options for the BMW X7

BMW offers a range of packages and accessories to personalize the X7 to fit individual preferences. The Premium Package adds enhancements like soft-close automatic doors and a Harmon Kardon surround sound system for $1,850. For the ultimate in luxury, the Executive Package includes a panoramic sky lounge LED roof and heated and cooled cupholders for $3,950.

Enthusiasts can also opt for the $1,350 M-Sport Professional Package, which adds performance features like M Sport brakes and suspension. Additional accessories include M Performance carbon fiber mirror caps and all-weather floor mats, allowing for further customization. Whether choosing the base model or the fully loaded Alpina XB7, the BMW X7 delivers on both style and substance, making it a standout choice in the luxury SUV segment.

Jul 11

Mercedes-Benz Sees Record-Breaking Surge in Electric Vehicle Sales in Q2 2023

Q2 2023 Sales Overview

In the second quarter of 2023, Mercedes-Benz experienced a slight decline in overall vehicle sales in the United States, totaling 77,287 cars—a 2.3 percent drop from the previous year. When including commercial vans, the total sales amounted to 96,019, marking a 2.8 percent decrease year-over-year. Despite this, Mercedes-Benz has reason to celebrate as their electric vehicle sales have soared to unprecedented levels.

Electric Vehicle Milestones

The second quarter was particularly remarkable for Mercedes-Benz’s all-electric vehicles, with sales hitting 11,927 units—a staggering 509 percent increase from the previous year. This surge represents 15.4 percent of the brand’s total vehicle sales, driven largely by the new EQE SUV and EQS SUV models, which have quickly become customer favorites. The success of these models highlights the growing shift towards electric mobility and the strong reception of Mercedes-Benz’s latest electric offerings.

Strong Start to 2023 for Mercedes-Benz Electric Vehicles

So far in 2023, Mercedes-Benz has sold over 19,000 electric vehicles, accounting for nearly 14 percent of their total sales volume. Key contributors include the EQB, EQE Sedan, EQE SUV, EQS Sedan, and the new EQS SUV. With a year-to-date increase of 376 percent, the brand is on track to potentially exceed 40,000 electric vehicle sales this year, underscoring a significant shift towards electric options among consumers.

Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to expanding its electric lineup and increasing the availability of high-performance models is clearly resonating with customers, marking a transformative period for the brand in the electric vehicle market.