For years, the Honda Accord held the title of the most stolen vehicle in Manteca, but recent developments have shifted the spotlight. A viral TikTok video exposed vulnerabilities in older Kia and Hyundai models, showing how a simple USB device can exploit these flaws and facilitate theft. Consequently, Hyundai owners are now the primary targets for thieves in Manteca, with Kias also high on the list.
Community Response and Prevention Measures
In response, the Manteca Police Department, under the leadership of Community Service Officer Misty Coleman, has secured 120 steering wheel locks from Kia. These locks will be distributed for free at a drive-through event this Saturday at the Manteca Civic Center, aimed at enhancing vehicle security for local residents. To receive a free steering wheel lock, residents must provide proof of Manteca residency and vehicle registration, with Hyundai models from 2021 or older qualifying for the program.
Emerging Theft Trends and Regional Impact
The theft of Kias and Hyundais is driven by two main groups: those seeking joyrides and those looking to strip vehicles for parts. Stolen vehicles often end up in chop shops, particularly in the Oakland area. This increase in theft has also been noted in other regions, with Minneapolis reporting a staggering 836% rise in Kia and Hyundai thefts from the previous year, highlighting a broader trend affecting vehicle owners nationwide.
According to JD Power’s 2023 Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) study, U.S. vehicle owners are increasingly dissatisfied, marking a continued decline over the past few years. This year’s overall satisfaction score stands at 845 out of 1000, slipping by two points from 2022 and three from 2021. The study examines ten aspects of vehicle ownership, with nine showing reduced satisfaction, particularly in exterior design and infotainment systems.
Interestingly, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) have outshone internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in fuel economy, with BEVs scoring 797 compared to ICE vehicles’ 758. Despite the overall drop in satisfaction, BEVs, excluding Tesla, and plug-in hybrids, have shown impressive performance. Models like the Kia EV6 and Nissan Ariya lead in their segments, while Tesla, despite its dominance in the BEV sector, saw a significant drop in satisfaction across all factors, highlighting the need for manufacturers to address these growing concerns.
Insights and Future Outlook
Frank Hanley, senior director at JD Power, emphasized that despite technological advancements, vehicle owners are not fully impressed. Innovations such as charging pads and advanced audio systems have not significantly improved owner satisfaction, suggesting that manufacturers must better align with consumer needs. The study underscores the importance of addressing specific pain points to enhance overall vehicle experience.
In terms of model rankings, Hyundai Motor Group emerged as a leader, with nine models including the Genesis GV60 achieving high satisfaction scores. BMW also performed well with several models, including the BMW iX, while the Porsche 911 was recognized for its exceptional performance, with an electric version reportedly in development.
All-wheel drive (AWD) has evolved from a feature exclusive to off-road vehicles and trucks to a common option in everyday cars. This shift is evident as even basic hatchbacks now offer AWD capabilities. With the rise of this technology, it’s worth exploring which all-wheel-drive vehicle stands out as the best of all time.
Exploring the Best in AWD: Your Opinion Matters
With countless AWD options ranging from rugged Subarus to high-performance Ram TRXs and luxury Range Rovers, the choice can be overwhelming. Though the distinction between all-wheel and four-wheel drive exists, for this discussion, both are considered interchangeable. Personally, the Ram TRX stands out as an exceptional choice for its sheer power and presence, with the Jeep Wrangler also being a strong contender due to its off-road prowess.
Share Your Thoughts
Now it’s your turn to weigh in. What do you think is the greatest all-wheel-drive vehicle ever made? Share your top pick and join the conversation about the ultimate AWD experience.
Toyota, Kia, Honda, and Buick models dominate this list.
There’s a strong mix of sedans, SUVs, and even trucks on the “most reliable” list.
A reliable vehicle will last longer, break down less, and even be worth more when it comes to resale value.
The 2023 model year stands to bring some exciting innovations to the world of passenger vehicles. Yet, good old-fashioned quality continues to rank as a critically important factor for new car buyers. According to market research published by Automotive Management, nearly two-thirds of consumers single out reliability as the most important factor.
Modern vehicles rely on all sorts of high-tech features to improve their drivability. Even so, reliability is a different question, and it is not equal among manufacturers and models. If you’re in the market for a reliable new car, these 2023 vehicles rank among the model year’s strongest options. Here they are, grouped by manufacturer and presented in no particular order.
Toyota Prius
First introduced in 1997, the Prius was the first mass-market gasoline-electric hybrid in automotive history. This eco-conscious, fuel-friendly vehicle has gone on to become one of Toyota’s most popular products.
The 2023 version builds on the vehicle’s strong reliability record. Reviewers have named it one of the world’s most dependable vehicles for several years running. Generous warranties back up outstanding fuel efficiency. The 2023 Prius models have fuel efficiency ratings as high as 58 miles per gallon.
Source: Toyota
Toyota Tundra
Pickup truck enthusiasts have long embraced the Tundra. The vehicle has a track record of topping lists of the most reliable vehicles in its class. The 2023 model is poised to continue that string of excellence without sacrificing its signature power.
The Tundra features a potent engine that generates up to 437 horsepower. Its towing capacity extends to a whopping 12,000 pounds. Impressive multimedia and comfort features complement the truck’s brute strength.
Source: Toyota
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry has long been praised for its reliability. And that reputation carries over into the 2023 model year. For instance, J.D. Power gives it an impressive 84/100 score for quality and reliability.
While you might think of the Camry as a typical sedan, the Toyota mainstay recently got a new look that’s very sleek. So, you don’t have to sacrifice style to gain reliability. Consumer Reports says the new Camry is snazzier and nimbler.
Source: Toyota
Kia Sportage
With an industry-leading warranty and complete safety features, the Kia Sportage delivers excellent value. The 2023 edition is also poised to continue its long run of dominating reliability ratings in the crossover SUV class.
Kia refreshed the Sportage’s exterior and souped-up its driver-assist tech features. The only big knock against the Sportage is its mediocre fuel efficiency rating. It otherwise earns top marks for both reliability and performance.
Source: Kia
Kia Rio
Buyers in the subcompact category need look no further than the 2023 Kia Rio for class-leading reliability ratings. Its comprehensive warranty includes 10-year, 100,000-mile coverage for powertrain components. The basic warranty protection covers five years or 60,000 miles.
The vehicle offers decent power for its size, with its 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine generating up to 120 horsepower. Drivers also love its strong fuel economy and bumper-to-bumper dependability.
Source: Kia
Kia K5
Kia unveiled the K5 in 2021 as a replacement for its outgoing Optima model. The K5 picks up where the Optima left off in terms of reliability. The mid-size sedan may not be the most agile in its class, but reviewers praised its overall value.
The K5 has a lot to offer buyers seeking a combination of luxury, affordability, and dependability. Its interior is particularly stunning for the vehicle’s accessible price, which starts at $25,290 (MSRP).
Source: Kia
Honda HR-V
The 2023 Honda HR-V turns heads with a sleek, stylish design and impressive interior. This popular mid-size crossover SUV also earns top marks for fuel efficiency and cargo space.
Yet, the feature many HR-V owners appreciate most is the vehicle’s outstanding dependability. Like most Hondas, the HR-V tends to significantly outlast its expected lifespan and only rarely requires service when properly maintained.
Source: Honda
Honda Accord
Much like the Toyota Camry, the Honda Accord has long been heralded for its reliability and practicality. For example, J.D. Power awards the Accord with a great 83/100 score for quality and reliability.
And the 2023 model even gets a handsome new styling. The latest model isn’t a massive overall, but as Car and Driver puts it, “Why fix what’s not broken?” This evolution of the mainstay is a more refined version of the vehicle so many already like.
Source: Honda
Hyundai Tucson
The 2023 Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV with some of the industry’s most impressive reliability ratings. J.D. Power & Associates gives the Tucson an overall score of 78/100 for reliability, quality, driving experience, resale, and dealership experience.
The strong performance carried over to enthusiastic reviews of the model year. The Tucson isn’t just reliable: it’s also stylish, practical, and fun to drive. Buyers in the compact SUV market will have a hard time finding a more dependable alternative.
Source: Hyundai
Hyundai Elantra
The iconic Hyundai Elantra returns in 2023 with an impressive lineup of performance specifications complementing its legendary reliability. Owners can get up to 43 miles per gallon and 201 horsepower for an MSRP starting at $20,500.
Some reviewers are divided over the Elantra’s curvaceous, futuristic styling. However, they are agreed in their enthusiasm for the vehicle’s practicality and dependability.
Source: Hyundai
Lexus GX
The 2023 Lexus GX is the most reliable SUV, according to Consumer Reports. So, it should definitely be on any car shopper’s radar this year. J.D. Power also gives it a sparkling 86/100 score for quality and reliability.
In addition to its high marks for reliability, the Lexus GX manages to be incredibly luxurious and off-road capable. As a result, it’s a versatile vehicle that has something to offer everyone. It could be the right call for your family.
Source: Lexus
Buick Envision
Longtime General Motors (GM) brand Buick surged to the top of reliability ratings in recent years. The automaker’s current lineup appears headed in the same direction. The 2023 version of Buick’s popular compact Envision SUV is one of the model year’s most dependable American mass-market vehicles.
The Envision earned glowing reviews from professionals. Multiple reviewers singled out its practicality, which is rare for a car competing for market share in the luxury class.
Source: Buick
Research Tips for New Car Buyers
When researching new cars, consumers should cross-reference reviews and recommendations using multiple sources. Particularly reputable industry publications include sites like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and online magazines like Motor Trend and Car and Driver. You can trust these publications to deliver honest, unbiased information based on expert opinion.
J.D. Power & Associates is another high-profile provider of reliable information. The respected consumer analytics firm specializes in long-term vehicle dependability research. Its reviews and opinions carry high levels of authority within the automotive industry.
The Bloomfield Township Police Department is actively investigating a recent incident where a 2014 GMC Yukon was stolen from a residential driveway on Peabody Drive. Reported on July 8, the theft occurred during the night, with the SUV notably left unlocked and the keys inside, making it an easy target for thieves. This oversight underscores the importance of securing vehicles, even when parked at home.
Call for Public Assistance and Preventative Measures
Authorities are seeking assistance from the public to gather any information that could lead to the recovery of the stolen vehicle. Residents with any relevant details are urged to contact the Bloomfield Township Police Department at their non-emergency line, 248-433-7755. In response to this incident, police are emphasizing the critical need for residents to lock their vehicles, secure or remove valuables, and ensure that keys are never left inside, to prevent similar occurrences.
Source: Toyota
Source: Toyota
Source: Toyota
Source: Kia
Source: Kia
Source: Kia
Source: Honda
Source: Honda
Source: Hyundai
Source: Hyundai
Source: Lexus
Source: Buick