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These are the reviews (and comparisons) you read the most this year. Go you! The week between Christmas and New Years is a time for reflection. You’re not quite sure what day it is, and subsisting on a steady intake of holiday chocolate and leftovers. It’s great. With that in mind, we’re looking at the big hits of the last 12 months here at AutoGuide. COVID may have ravaged every part of the globe, but thanks to the careful, ceaseless work of the people in charge of press fleets, we still drove plenty of the most important new cars of the year. Auto manufacturers stepped up, bringing in thorough cleaning and disinfecting processes, spacing out bookings, and modifying event launches to minimize person-to-person contact. Big props to them. We also thank you, dear reader. We couldn’t do this job without you. (And you. And you!) We always aim for a thorough, everyday approach to how we conduct our reviews, reflecting what you’re looking for come time to head to the dealership. In 2020 your favorite reviews skewed towards crossovers—no surprise there—but sedans are seemingly making a comeback. And you can’t resist a good pair of affordable sports cars, either… To spice things up this year, we’ve included real-world comparisons alongside single-car reviews. Read on then, for AutoGuide’s most popular car reviews of 2020. 10. 2021 Subaru Crosstrek First Drive Review What we said: “The Crosstrek was already high up on our list of sub-compact crossovers, and the 2.5-liter makes it an even more attractive option now.” Read the full review here! The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek gained a much-needed, more powerful engine option in higher trims. Thanks to its clear car roots, it’s as friendly and easy-to-use as can be, yet the higher ride height allows it to conquer more than the local muddy parking lot. We’re big fans of this little sub-compact crossover: look forward to it facing off against the competition in the new year! Loading … 09. 2020 Ford Escape AWD 1.5 Review What we said: “The new Escape is well positioned to move back up the sales charts.” Read the full review here! By the end of the year, I drove three variations of Ford’s Escape, redone entirely for the 2020 model year. While the fuel sipping of the Hybrid was very appealing, this lower-rung trim, with the base engine, is the one that made the strongest impression. It’s affordable, spacious, and pretty darn fuel efficient without the added heft and complication of batteries. And now, with the Bronco Sport revealed, the Escape’s more overt car-ification makes sense. Loading … 08. 2020 Subaru Ascent Review What we said: “Overall, the Ascent is a big win for Subaru, and its success is further evidence that America’s appetite for SUVs remains as ravenous as ever.” Read the full review here! We love it when automakers throw a base model onto their fleets. Evidently so do you: this entry-level Subaru Ascent was our best-performing review for the Pleiades brand this year. It’s easy to see why too: for barely over $30,000, the Ascent offers three-row space, the great EyeSight suite of driver assists, and Subaru’s legendary AWD system. No wonder it keeps selling so well. Loading … 07. 2020 BMW 330i xDrive Review What we said: “Yes, BMW has brought the 3 Series back to its roots of being a driver’s car, but it’s no longer the only choice for that in its class.” Read the full review here! The BMW 3 Series has been the sport sedan measuring stick since the dawn of time. The last generation let the crown slip though, and the competition capitalized on it, including the newcomer Genesis G70. For this, the G20-generation model, BMW has evidently rediscovered its groove, according to contributor Justin Pritchard. On the subject of steering, Justin said “it almost feels like a hydraulic unit and returns much better feedback as well. This results in predictable steering in the corners and all that’s left after that is target fixation and following the corner through with a massive grin.” Loading … 06. 2021 Lexus IS 350 First Drive Review What we said: “There’s a maturity to the ride here that allows you to not just trust the IS as you fling it from apex to apex, but relish the act.” Read the full review here! There were groans in front of screens all around the globe when Lexus revealed that the 2021 IS would still use the same platform it did for most of the last decade. How could it really take the fight to the sport sedan segment that way, including the 3 Series you just read about? But this is more than a facelift: Lexus’ engineers went to town underneath the skin too. The IS is now a fun, indulgent drive on your favorite bit of twisty tarmac. In fact, it’s so accomplished that the carryover engines now feel in desperate need of an upgrade to match. The price of progress we suppose. This is another hint that rumors of the sedan’s death in general may be exaggerated… Loading … 05. Smiles Per Hour: 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs Toyota 86 Comparison What we said: “A softly sprung sports car is such a relief and it makes sense in a roadster. Top down, sun out, you can glide effortlessly across town, with your sunglasses on and your spine unbroken.” Read the full review here! Think a fun car costs serious coin? Take a gander at these two machines then: both can be had for less than the median new-car selling price these days. Both offer serious fun and genuine driver interaction, but do so in very different ways. We gave the newer MX-5 the nod in this one (spoiler alert), but as we said in the full article, while we prefer it in this case, we’d rather live in a world with both cars existing. There are no real wrong answers with this duo. Loading … 04. 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid vs 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid What we said: “If you want to be more honest about what the modern crossover is, it’s a giant hatchback on stilts. That sums up the new Escape pretty effectively.” Read the full review here! The RAV4 Hybrid has wait lists months long. It’s a popular version of the most popular crossover on the market, so Ford building a genuine competitor for it is a big deal. We pitted these two family crossovers against one another in the summer, to figure out which is the right choice. The Ford has the better real-world fuel economy, a more adjustable second-row, and the tech advantage. In the blue corner, the RAV4 brings a more pliant suspension, added space for both passengers and their stuff, and chunkier looks. It was a tough bout, but in the end the Toyota held onto its crown. Loading … 03. 2020 Ford Super Duty First Drive Review What we said: “For the 2020 Super Duty, Ford’s primary focus was clearly on upgrading the powertrain and towing capability above all else. And I have to say that it has worked.” Read the full review here! Look, this is America after all: of course a truck was going to end up somewhere on this list. That honor falls to Ford’s revised Super Duty lineup. For 2020 a new, huge 7.3-liter V8 joined the lineup, but the headline figure here was the Power Stroke diesel. Capable of punishing the pavement to the tune of 1,000 lb-ft, it’s the easy hauler’s choice. Loading … 02. 2021 Kia K5 GT-Line AWD Review: A Covetable Mainstream Sedan? What we said: “The K5’s camera-friendly looks might even draw eyeballs away from the current heavyweight crossovers, with a style none of ’em can hope to match.” Read the full review here! For our final piece of evidence that sedans are mounting a comeback, we present the Kia K5. This was one of our last reviews of the year, and yet it came this close to taking the number-one spot from a review that came out ten months earlier. That’s a heck of a move. Then again, this is a heck of a sedan. Super stylish inside and out, the K5 is spacious, practical, and full of clever tech. It’s reasonably priced too, and offers AWD as an option, something its platform-mate the Hyundai Sonata does without. We wouldn’t mind a bit more power—something the K5 GT should definitely address, thanks to a 290-horsepower 2.5-liter turbo engine. Loading … 01. 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Review What we said: “The TRD Off-Road might add some of that same rough-and-tumble character to the RAV4, but it does it to the detriment of the package.” Read the full review here! Well this is awkward. The RAV4 is the best-selling non-truck in both Canada and the US, so it topping the list isn’t exactly surprising. But this particular version doing so is. We drove the RAV4 a few times this year—in TRD Off-Road, the afore-mentioned Hybrid, and plug-in hybrid Prime forms—and this one was the least impressive. The rough engine gave it a decidedly old-school SUV flavor. But hey, given the demand for the upcoming Ford Bronco, maybe that’s just what people are looking for? Loading … Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here. The post AutoGuide’s Most Popular Car Reviews of 2020 appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

In an ideal world, you would spend all the money you have budgeted for your car on the car itself.... The post What Are The Cheapest Car Models To Insure? appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

If you’re looking to move your Kia to a new location, you’re likely wondering how much it will cost to... The post How Much Does It Cost To Ship Your Kia? appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

E-GMP electric vehicle platform will have Kia & Hyundai leading the charge in the all-electric vehicle era The post Hyundai-Kia E-GMP Platform Officially Unveiled appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

E-GMP electric vehicle platform will have Kia & Hyundai leading the charge in the all-electric vehicle era. The post Hyundai-Kia E-GMP Platform Officially Unveiled appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

Official towing capacities of 4 different Kia vehicles: Sportage, Sorento, Telluride & Carnival The post How Much Can You Tow With Kia Vehicles? appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

We got some exciting news to report here at theKEEA.com, as we have learned that the new Kia Niro hybrid... The post Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid To Gain AWD system appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

Won Kyu Yang leaves BMW to design upcoming Kia EVs. The post Ex BMW Designer Becomes New Head Of Kia Design appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

Won Kyu Yang leaves BMW to design upcoming Kia EVs. The post Ex BMW Designer Becomes New Head Of Kia Design appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

There are lots of great software programs to help you take care of your Kia car. Apps can help you... The post Smartest Programs For Caretaking Of Your Kia Car appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

Initially shown of in Europe earlier this year, the 2021 Kia Sorento has now officially been announced in the U.S.... The post 2021 Kia Sorento X-Line & Hybrid Launched In U.S. appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

[See image gallery at www.autoguide.com] Kia adds two hybrid options to its smaller three-row Sorento crossover, plus new off-road-oriented X-Line. Kia unveiled the North American-spec Sorento as part of a dedicated video event Tuesday afternoon. It marks a significant departure for the brand’s mid-size crossover, with dramatic new looks, an all-four-cylinder engine lineup, and not one but two hybrid options. This fourth-generation Sorento first broke cover in the before times (it was February). This is our first look at the trims it will have on this side of the globe however, though unsurprisingly the basic looks don’t change much. Kia has given the SUV the latest evolution of its Tiger Nose, with an “eyeline” daytime running light (DRL) signature and a wide grille. There’s a serious K5 sedan vibe to the front, while the rest of the body carries hints of the runaway-hit Telluride. There’s a connection to the upcoming Sedona minivan as well, in the shark-fin trim aft of the rear doors. Wheel sizes run from 17-inch sets to model-first 20-inchers. Like the rest of the Kia lineup, however—and Hyundai for that matter—the Sorento manages to look related to its siblings without being a carbon copy. SEE ALSO: 2021 Kia Seltos EX Review: Where Do Its Priorities Lie? Under the skin, the Sorento uses Kia’s N3 platform. The basic dimensions haven’t changed much, though the wheelbase is now 1.4 inches (35 mm) longer to provide more rear legroom. More important is a weight reduction of 119 lb (54 kg) over the existing generation. Kia also says the Sorento exhibits reduced road noise, with improved dynamics courtesy of the stiffer platform. That same platform has also allowed the Korean brand to install new engines into the Sorento’s nose. Engine lineup includes hybrid and PHEV For 2021, the Sorento will exclusively run four-cylinder engines, leaving the Telluride as the only V6-powered SUV in its lineup. It starts with the familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder, found elsewhere in the Kia lineup. Here it produces 191 hp and 182 lb-ft, filtering through an eight-speed automatic transmission to either the front or all four wheels. A turbo engine with the same displacement adds a full 90 horses to the corral, totalling 281 hp. Torque is up even more, to 311 lb-ft. This engine pairs with an eight-speed transmission as well, though it’s of the dual-clutch variety. Kia will offer the turbo 2.5-liter on front- and all-wheel drive Sorentos. It’s also estimating a combined 25 mpg for the 2.5T, a 3 mpg improvement over the current V6 model. The non-turbo will achieve an estimated 27 mpg. Of note, the turbo-four will be rated to a maximum of 3,500 lb for towing. That’s 1,500 lb less than the existing V6. Where things get interesting is the availability of two hybrid models. The regular hybrid model pairs a smaller 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with a 44-kW electric motor. Combined output is 227 hp, channeled exclusively through the front wheels via a six-speed auto. Kia is aiming for 37 mpg combined with this pairing, with 39 mpg in the city. SEE ALSO: 2020 Hyundai Venue Review Joining the lineup later next year is a more powerful plug-in hybrid. It uses same ICE component as the no-plug powertrain, but with a more powerful 66.9-kW electric motor. There’s also a larger battery (8 kWh versus 5 kWh) and standard all-wheel drive. Combined power is up to 261 hp, with a 30-mile zero-emissions range. The plug-in model will be something of a segment first, as no other non-luxury brand offers a similar setup in a smaller three-row form. Loading … Revamped interior The Sorento’s interior gets a tasteful upgrade, with higher trims featuring quilted leather seating and open-pore wood trim. The dash features four vertically-stacked air vents, all trimmed in satin chrome and having just a hint of Star Wars about them. Buyers will now get the option of second-row captain’s chairs in addition to the usual bench seat. Kia naturally has stuffed the Sorento full of all its latest tech gadgets, of which there are many. For starters, there’s an available 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Blind View Monitor is also available, which shows a camera feed from the side of the Sorento when the turn signal is activated. Other goodies include a 360-degree camera view, a standard 8.0-inch central infotainment screen (or optional 10.25-inch unit), simultaneous Bluetooth connections for two phones, available wireless charging, and eight USB ports in all trims bar the base LX (it gets six). A new feature can also send images of the car’s surroundings to your Kia phone app, if you’ve lost it in a particularly crowded parking lot. Hey, we’ve all had it happen. Trims and availability Kia says the 2021 Sorento will be available at dealerships before the end of the year. It will arrive with five trims: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige. The top-shelf SX-Prestige AWD model will also offer an X-Line package, which adds a center locking differential, hill descent control, and an inch-higher ride height (to 8.3 inches). The X-Line also features its own 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique roof rack. Kia will release pricing closer to the Sorento’s on-sale date. Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here. The post 2021 Kia Sorento Revealed with Turbo Hybrid and PHEV Models appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

5 reasons why you should search for a dependable Kia service center to make quick car check up. The post Finding Kia Service Center Locations appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

Kia’s “Grand Utility Vehicle” boasts the sort of seats you’d expect when flying first class. Kia finally showed off the fourth-generation Sedona—known as the Carnival in other markets—in full earlier this week. While we already had brief looks at the minivan before, this is a more comprehensive view, and it shows a more luxurious, stylish approach to the segment. The exterior styling is bolder than the current model, pulling influence from Kia’s more adventurous modern SUVs. It’s most clear in the big bluff nose, with serious Seltos hints. Kia has massaged the proportions, shortening the front overhang, lengthening the rear, and moving the base of the A-pillars rearward. The result is a more dynamic stance. A floating roof visually lengthens the Sedona, as does an actual stretch to a total length of around 203 inches. The checkered metal-effect C-pillar breaks up all the horizontal lines nicely. Meanwhile, the full-width taillight design has a technical, angular design for its interior elements. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 19 inches. SEE ALSO: Toyota Sienna vs Chrysler Pacifica and Rivals: How Does it Stack Up? Overall, it’s a smart look, managing to stand out in a segment that will be almost completely transformed over the next few months. Of course, more important than a minivan’s looks is its ability to swallow people and their things. Kia is promising 102.5 cubic feet of storage space behind the front row, and 22.1 cubic feet with a full three-row setup. The team has also carved over an inch out of the trunk lift-over height, dropping it to a hair over 25 inches. Some markets will even get an additional row, bringing the possible head count to 11. SEE ALSO: 2021 Toyota Sienna Preview: On Hand with the New Hybrid Minivan That’s fine and all, but we’re more interested in the “Premium Relaxation Seat” in the second row. With a single button press this drops the seats and raises a leg rest, offering the sort of reclined seating you’d expect flying business class over the Atlantic. Yes please. In modern Kia fashion, the new-age Sedona will feature a slew of convenience and safety tech. Two 12.3-inch screens sit up front: one for the instrument panel, and another in the middle of the dash. They both sit under a single piece of glass, however. Haptic controls dot the center console for redundant climate control. Depending on the market, both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available wirelessly—and two mobile devices can connect simultaneously. The available Kia Live system can provide live traffic and weather conditions, as well as nearby parking information. It also allows owners to send their upcoming navigation route to the car before starting off. Like others in its class, the Sedona offers an available intercom and rear-seat camera system. The two are combined in the Rear Passenger View & Talk feature, providing a live feed to the central infotainment screen and piping front-row voices through to the rear speakers. If drivers are feeling particularly brave, they can also allow second row voice commands for the infotainment. A whole gaggle of safety-related acronyms are available, depending on market and trim. Automated emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot collision avoidance, driver attention warning, auto high beams, and smart cruise control are all pretty standard in the market nowadays. In addition, Kia piles on Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Surround View Monitor (SVM), and Safe Exit Assist (SEA). The latter stops the power-sliding doors from opening if the car detects a car approaching from behind. Highway Driving Assist (HDA) is also available, a Level 2 semi-automated driving assist that has shown up on other new Hyundai/Kia/Genesis products. SEE ALSO: 2020 Toyota Sienna Review Powering the Sedona are three engines: a 2.2-liter diesel and two 3.5-liter gas V6s. We don’t expect Kia to offer the diesel in North America, which leaves the multi-point fuel injection and direct-injection V6s as potential motivators. The MPI engine produces 268 hp and 245 lb-ft; the GDI, 290 hp and 262 lb-ft. Both come hooked up to an eight-speed auto, sending power exclusively to the front wheels. No, it won’t be following the Chrysler Pacifica and Toyota Sienna in offering four-corner traction. Kia is also promising an improvement in NVH across the board in the Sedona, thanks to increased sound-deadening materials, a new independent rear suspension, and even liquid-filled rubber bushes. The model shown here is the global debut Carnival; it’s now available for sale in its home market. Kia will show off other specs, including the North American model, soon. … Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here. The post 2022 Kia Sedona Shows Off Reclining ‘Relaxation’ Seats and Clean New Looks appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

September is almost here, which in the auto industry means the arrival of 2021 models for almost every car you are thinking of buying. It also means that a lot of manufacturers and dealers will be looking to dispose of the 2020 models – with some very attractive deals! In most cases, the difference between 2020 and 2021 model-year vehicles is minimal (unless a particular car is getting a facelift or a new generation), so why not save a few bucks on a vehicle that’s a few months older? With now being an ideal time, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best car deals you can capitalize on in August thanks to data provided by Kelly Blue Book. The list (in no particular order) highlights deals on both lease and purchase, a couple of things to keep in mind though, the deals are subject to availability and the offers are likely to vary by region. Lastly, all costs pertaining to tax, title and license will be extra. So if you’re looking to save big on a new car, here are the 10 best ways to do it now. 2020 Hyundai Elantra August Deal: $2,499 deposit, $139 lease / month for 36 months. Hyundai is known to offer features and quality that seems like its from a segment above and the Elantra is no exception. It sports a striking design, offers most convenience and driver assistance systems you can think of and comes at a relatively affordable price which starts from $20,275 (including destination). 2020 Volkswagen Jetta August Deal: $1,999 deposit, $189 lease / month for 36 months The Jetta is a well packaged sedan that offers European styling with a healthy dollop of driving dynamics that an enthusiast would enjoy. It is spacious and offers good value for money. But it is also inconspicuous and lacks a defining feature which makes the car perfectly acceptable but seldom appealing. The deals available, however, are quite lucrative. The starting price of a new 2020 Volkswagen Jetta stands at $20,615. 2020 Acura ILX August Deal: $2,799 deposit, $239 lease / month for 36 months The Acura ILX is the entry point into the premium Acura lineup and with a starting price of $26,925, it isn’t actually affordable. Plus, it was updated in 2020 and now sports the brand’s new pentagonal grille and new headlamps and a revised tail lamp setup which makes for a good looking ride. While it might not sport the minimalist themes of its German competitors when it comes to dash design, its spacious cabin is matched by few. 2020 Mazda3 August Deal: $2,299 deposit, $179 lease / month for 36 months With the new one revealed and en-route by the end of the year, the 2020 Mazda3 is available with a few lucrative deals. Unlike many other manufacturers, Mazda has stuck with a larger displacement, naturally aspirated engines instead of a small displacement turbo. The 2020 model year is available with a 2.0-liter and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 155 hp and 184 hp respectively. The Mazda3 also features premium interiors, the only downside is the infotainment system that might seem outdated to some. 2020 Nissan Sentra August Deal: $3,449 deposit, $149 lease / month for 36 months Nissan gave the Sentra a complete overhaul for the 2020 model year. Now, just a few short months later you can have this completely redesigned sedan for a relative bargain. The Sentra features Nissan’s new design language, and a completely overhauled interior which in the Sentra’s top trim with the walnut brown leather upholstery looks like from a segment above. The only downside is the solitary 2.0-liter engine that makes 149 hp, 198 lb-ft of torque, and comes with a CVT gearbox and FWD only. Loading … 2020 Kia Optima August Deal: $5,000 in cashback The Kia Optima is officially dead, well, the name anyway. The K5 will take over from where the Optima left off and it looks ready to take on more expensive rivals. Now, the Kia’s renewed aspirations for its sedan also mean that you can get the 2020 Optima for a bargain. Does a $5,000 cashback sound good? The Kia Optima ranks near the top when it comes to the bang-for-your-buck metric. It features a striking design with premium and comfortable interiors and spec sheep laden with convenience features, for $5,000 off, it is a car worth considering. 2020 Toyota Corolla August Deal: $1,999 deposit, $199 lease / for 36 months Do we really need to explain ourselves on this one? The Corolla is one of the longest-running models in the business, rivaled only by the Honda Civic. If you are looking for a no-nonsense family sedan that will get you from A to B with no fuss and can be passed on down the generation then you need to look no further. The 2020 Corolla sports a more striking design compared to the previous generation so apart from being almost unbreakable, it also looks appealing. It comes with an option of two powertrains, a 1.8-liter four-cylinder and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 139 hp and 169 hp respectively. Both engines come with a CVT gearbox but a 6-speed manual is also available with the SE trim for the purists. 2020 Subaru Legacy August Deal: $2,899 deposit, $219 lease / month for 36 months Standard AWD, advanced driver assistance systems, and adaptive cruise control, yes, we are talking about a Subaru. In this case, Subaru’s premium offering, the 2020 Subaru Legacy. The mid-size sedan starts from $23,630. The lease options on the Legacy are more expensive than most options on the list but the features and equipment it offers is certainly worth the extra premium. 2020 Honda Accord August Deal: APR of 1.9 percent If you are looking for the perfect balance between spirited driving, premium interior and a cabin large enough sleep in, you can’t do much better than the Honda Accord. Sure, it’s a little smaller in size compared to the last generation but thanks to Honda’s Machine Minimum Man Maximum philosophy, it doesn’t compromise on cabin space. It is also sharper in design and is available with a 250 hp 2.0-liter turbo apart from the 1.5-liter turbo-four which makes for quite a sprightly drive. Starting price? $24,975. Loading … 2020 Toyota Camry August Deal: $1,999 deposit, $199 lease / month for 36 months The second Toyota on the list is the Japanese automaker’s premium offering, the 2020 Camry. If you are looking for a sedan with a sporty demeanor and a striking design that would send your hear aflutter, look elsewhere. Think of the Camry as a major upscale version of the Corolla. Yes, it has its sporty trims like the TRD and XSE with wide bumper orifices and air dams, but under all that dressing up, the Camry is a roomy and comfortable mid-size sedan that values comfort above all else, even handling. It is also the only car in the segment that still offers a V6 engine. Price starts from $25,925. The post 10 Best Car Deals For August appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

Which Kia models in U.S. come available with standard or panorama sunroof? The post List Of Kia Models With (Panoramic) Sunroof appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

Each year the team at JD Power reveals what car brands owners find most appealing. This year, you might be surprised at the results. For 2020, the results of the Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) study show a real dominance by domestic automakers. They don’t fill up the list, but they definitely own all the spots at the top. The APEAL study measures an owner’s emotional attachment to their new vehicle and if it delivers on all fronts the customers had hoped for. According to JD Power it is as important for manufacturers as quality issues as buying a car is not only a sizeable investment but also an emotional decision. The study measures new owners’ emotional response across 37 defined attributes that range from seats of the pants feel to the feeling they get when they press the accelerator to the luxurious feel of the cabin. These points are aggregated out of 1,000 and are based on responses by 87,282 new owners after 90 days of ownership. The study was redesigned for 2020 and factors in JD Power’s own Initial Quality Study from last month. Now that the technical bit is out of the way let’s see who are the most appealing brands according to new owners. 10. Hyundai Points: 842 Hyundai comes in at number 10 for the most appealing car brands. Although it brings up the rear on this list it is by far the most awarded brand in the study. A small caveat here, it does include the company’s sub-brands Genesis and Kia. Even then it is no small feat to have five awards in your name. The cars that won top honors in their respective segments are Hyundai Sonata, Veloster, Kia stinger, Telluride, and the Genesis G70. Loading … 9. Honda Points: 842 Next up in the list is Honda. Though it did not win a category outright, the Odyssey received a model-level award for the second consecutive year. Honda’s robust reliability has always helped its appeal among customers but what makes it more appealing can be attributed to a more modern and tech biased cabin layout and the use of more premium materials. Toyota for example was 17rh in the same study, proof that reliability only counts for so much among new cars. Loading … 8. Nissan Points: 844 There is a three-way tie between Nissan, Mazda, and Kia for the eighth, seventh and sixth positions for the most appealing car brands. Despite the rocky start to the year, Nissan has found favor among its customers. Much of it can be thanks to the new design language and a more upmarket cabin layout. Plus, Nissan is the most awarded manufacturer with four model-level awards. It is tied with BMW and second only to Hyundai. Loading … 7. Mazda Points: 844 Mazda has made quite a dent in the market this year and it is evident in the APEAL study as well. In terms of emotional attachment, Mazda has climbed the highest relative to last year. Compared to 2019, the Automaker placed nine places higher. Loading … 6. Kia Points: 844 Kia placed sixth in emotional attachment and contributed to Hyundai Motor Group’s record number of awards. Though tied with Mazda and Nissan, Kia placed first in the Initial Quality Study by JD power but last month. Coincidentally though, there too, it was tied with Dodge for first place. Loading … 5. Mini Points: 853 Though Mini is as British as Sauerkraut, it seems to have worked in its favor. BMW overhauled Mini and reaffirmed its position as a cultural icon. Though Mini is not so Mini anymore, but its increase in size could be one of the primary reasons for its appeal as it now offers space and size along with Novelty. Fifth position with 853 points for a borderline luxury brand speaks volumes for its customer’s confidence. Loading … 4. Ford Points: 853 Now we are entering the mainstream and it is all domestic from here. Ford comes in at the fourth position. Though we are surprised that it didn’t rank higher given that the F-150 is the most popular pickup truck in North America. Loading … 3. GMC Points: 857 General Motors’ luxury sub-brand ranks third in the APEAL study with 857 points which is seven positions higher than its sister brand, Chevrolet. In the Initial Quality Study conducted last month GMC placed eighth overall. Loading … 2. Ram Points: 871 Another popular truck brand of North America takes second place. Ram also placed third overall in the Initial Quality Study. Ironically though, it is the only brand on this entire list that specifically makes trucks and nothing else and yet surpasses even Ford in terms of emotional attachment. That speaks volumes for how it makes its customers feel. Loading … 1. Dodge Points: 872 It may sound strange but it isn’t surprising that Dodge tops the list when comes to an emotional connection with its customers. With cars like the Charger, Challenger and their Hellcat versions in its lineup, Dodge has established itself as an aspirational brand. Plus, it is the only mass-market brand apart from Hyundai to win both APEAL and IQS in the same year and is also the only domestic brand to do so. Loading … The post Top 10 Most Loved Car Brands appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

Kia models with Nightfall Edition trim level / package. The post Kia Nightfall Edition Models For Sale In US appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

In the vast majority of cases, automakers go out of their way to make a big splash when they launch... The post 2020 Kia Stinger Indigo Special Edition appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

Kia K5 will be just $100 pricier than outgoing Optima. AWD available with 1.6-liter turbo only. The Kia Optima is dead—well, the name is anyway. The 2021 Kia K5 is the new mid-size sedan and takes over where the Optima left off. Kia announced pricing of its stylish new model today, with 2021 K5 pricing starting from $24,455 (including destination). The new K5 costs only $100 more compared to the Optima it replaces. It undercuts most of the competition including the car it shares its platform with, the Hyundai Sonata. At the other end of the spectrum, the top trim of the K5, the GT, will cost nearly $36,000 after destination.Base GT will start at $31,455 while the GT1 package will add $4,000 to the cost bringing the total to $35,455. The GT1 package adds a number of driver assistance systems like rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, parking collision avoidance, front collision avoidance, highway driving assist, and navigation-based smart cruise control. SEE ALSO: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review The GT will be the only trim to get the new 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged motor with 290 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. It is also the only trim to get the new eight-speed DCT as well. Ironically though, it will not be available with all-wheel drive. Not offering AWD on the high-performance model seems strange, but is a common practice. The Toyota Camry doesn’t offer AWD with the 301 hp V6 powertrain and neither does Nissan on the 248 hp Altima. SEE ALSO: Top 5 Coolest Features of the New Kia K5 The on-demand AWD is therefore only available with the 1.6-liter turbo-four, on the LXS and GT-Line trims only, which start at $27,555 and $30,055, respectively. The EX trim, on the other hand, will start from $27,990. In addition, Kia will also offer packages on its lower trims as well. The EX Premium Package, at $3,400 adds heated steering wheel, 10-way power-adjustable front passenger seat with memory function, the 10.25-inch infotainment system, aforementioned advanced driving aids, and the 12-speaker Bose sound system. The GT-Line Premium Package adds a panoramic sunroof, driver assistance systems and wireless charger for $1,600. Kia will also be offering incentives on buying and leasing on the K5 right from launch. CarsDirect found up to $2,000 off a K5 EX with a 24-month lease. The post 2021 Kia K5 Prices to Start from $24,455, Incentives On Offer At Launch appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

Instead of updating or redesigning the Optima, Kia has rid the North American market of the car altogether. In its place arrives the new 2021 Kia K5. To be fair, the Optima was always called the K5 in South Korea. So Kia has essentially done away with the Optima name and now its new mid-size sedan will be identified as K5 all across the globe. The K5 is all set to take the fight to its rivals in the mid-size sedan market and it seems well equipped to do so. So here are five cool features in the 2021 Kia K5 that could change the game. SEE ALSO: 2021 Kia K5 Revealed: 290 HP and AWD for Sporty Optima Replacement A Diet Stinger Please Gone are the days when mid-size sedans we considered too beige. Today, aesthetically at least they can give more upscale cars a run for their money. And the K5 epitomizes that ethos. It looks like Kia’s flagship GT, the Stinger, went on a diet and chiseled itself by some serious weight training. The front nose is sharp and the sleek fascia with its front fender-intruding DRLS and all-LED headlamps is enough to turn heads. It sits on the same N3 platform as the Hyundai Sonata and if that’s any clue, it sits lower than before and the sloping roofline creates coupe-like profile that looks sporty. The best part? It’s not all show and no go. SEE ALSO: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Review Turbo Power Along with a striking design, thankfully Kia has also introduced an engine that would make many an enthusiast take notice. Sure there is the 1.6-turbo GDI. But the engine of interest here is the 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbo from the upcoming Genesis G80. It makes 290 hp of max power and 311 lb-ft of torque which according to Kia is “best-in-class”. It also comes with a segment-exclusive eight-speed wet, dual-clutch transmission and AWD (another first for Kia). All trims are available with AWD except the base LX. SEE ALSO: 2021 Genesis G80 Here To Make Rivals Nervous, Priced From $48,725 Continuously Variable What? Yes, we are still harping on about the engines. As desirable as the 2.5-liter turbo is, the 1.6-liter GDI comes with its own set of innovations. Kia has introduced an industry-first Continuously Variable Valve Duration system, or CVVD. Unlike variable valve timing, CVVD allows for individual valves to remain open or closed for extended periods depending on how the car is being driven. If the car is at a constant speed, the system will allow the intake valves to be open from the middle to the end of the compression stroke so as to minimize resistance during compression. If the car is being driven fast, the system closes the intake during the same stroke to maximize air utilization during the explosion stage. The system can increase fuel efficiency by five percent, increase power by four percent and cuts emissions by 12 percent. SEE ALSO: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review All-Paw-Drive This is the first time Kia has equipped its sedan with all-wheel-drive. Though it is a front-wheel-drive based system, which essentially means that it is on-demand and will engage AWD when the system detects a loss in traction at the nose. The system is optional on all trims except the base LX and comes as standard on the GT trim with the 2.5-liter turbo. A Cabin From Above? The cabin of the K5 truly looks like from a class above. The upholstery looks premium and upmarket. Kia will also offer two infotainment screen sizes in the K5, an 8.0-inch unit, and a 10.25-inch wide-screen system. Kia will also offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Though both will be wireless (another first), that ability will be available with the 8.0-inch screen only. Our guess? Compatibility issues maybe. Though it will also come with natural voice recognition which will allow occupants to operate things like the aircon with voice commands. Other features include an upgraded Bose sound system and smart key that allows you to not only start your car but operate the climate control system as well. The 2021 Kia K5 goes on sale by late summer and the GT version will arrive in fall. Prices will be revealed closer to the launch. The post Top 5 Coolest Features of the New Kia K5 appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

[See image gallery at www.autoguide.com] The Optima name is officially buried, but new K5 boasts more power, more tech, and all-wheel drive grip. Goodbye Kia Optima, and hello Kia K5. Last month’s EPA listing was essentially confirmation, but now it’s real: Kia will switch to the alphanumeric approach here in North America for its latest mid-size sedan. The name is hardly the biggest change, however. There’s a whole rethink of the trim levels (five now: LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX, GT), and the 2021 Kia K5 is getting more power, a more sporty character, and even all-wheel drive. Let’s start with the engine lineup. Standard-fit on most K5s is the familiar 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. The little four-pot uses the same continuously variable valve duration (CVVD) technology as it does in the Hyundai Sonata. The fiendishly clever (and complex) setup can alter how long the valves stay open on the fly. The Korean automaker claims it manages the dual feats of improved fuel efficiency and performance. Power figures sit at 180 hp and 195 lb-ft, with a standard eight-speed automatic sending that to the front wheels. Again, like the Sonata. SEE ALSO: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Review It’s from here on out that the K5 cuts its own path, however. For starters, it features an available all-wheel drive system. The electro-hydraulic setup is front-biased, a first for the brand. It offers an available “Snow” drive mode which tailors the system for colder climes. Other driving modes include Normal, Smart, Sport and Custom, which all alter engine, transmission, and steering mapping. The drive modes also change the AWD system settings when equipped. The all-paw system provides the basis for the new, high-performance GT trim as well. This K5 benefits from a bigger, 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, though it still runs on regular gas. It adds over 100 ponies to the corral, now totalling 290 hp, while torque grows even further to 311 lb-ft. The recently-revealed Genesis G80 shares the four-pot with the K5, although the Kia gets a different transmission: a class-exclusive eight-speed dual-clutch. An additional Sport+ mode joins the lineup for the GT as well. Hook it all up and Kia says the K5 GT will charge to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds. The basis of the K5 is Kia’s new N3 platform. Length increases by two inches over the Optima, with the wheelbase growing by 1.8 inches as well. Width is up an inch, while height is down by nearly the same amount. Kia says the new platform is stronger and stiffer than the one it replaces, with improvements in responsiveness and stability. It also boasts improved sound deadening—though the K5 also uses piped-in engine noise depending on drive mode. Of course, it’s impossible to ignore the dramatic new looks of the Optima … sorry, K5. In profile it bears a striking resemblance to the Stinger GT, but it sticks to a traditional trunk instead of the big hatch. Kia has expanded its trademark “tiger grille” into a whole “tiger face” here, spreading across the whole width of the front-end and incorporating the “heart beat” DRLs. The chrome strip that runs up and over the side windows plunges down the C-pillar and loops around the rear glass. Around back an available dash-style LED setup offers a different approach to the de rigueur full-width light strip. Wheel sizes range from 16 to 19 inches, and the larger ones come wrapped in aggressive Pirelli P Zero tires on the GT. Like its Sonata sibling, the K5 brings a whole bunch of tech to the midsize mainstream class. The standard infotainment screen is a healthy 8.0 inches, though a larger 10.25-inch widescreen setup is also available. Curiously, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both available—a rarity in non-premium cars—but only with the smaller screen. We don’t understand that move either. Beyond that, the K5 will also offer natural voice recognition (“turn on the AC”), wireless mobile charging (with a handy drop-in design), and an upgraded Bose sound system. New smart key features also allow owners to pre-set the climate controls or remote start the engine. The “Sound of Nature” ambient system also makes the jump from the Sonata. Bring on those calm sea waves! Being a modern Kia there’s a whole suite of driver assist and safety aids on board too. No matter the trim you’ll find automated emergency braking (including pedestrian detection), lane-keep assist, driver attention warning and rear occupant alert. Available assists include rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot assist, forward collision avoidance with junction turning, navigation-based smart cruise control, and safe exit assist. The latter offers a beep if it senses approaching traffic when doors are opening. Kia will build the K5 in the same West Point, Georgia plant as the award-winning Telluride. It arrives later this summer, with the high-performance GT showing up in the autumn. Expect full pricing closer to launch. The post 2021 Kia K5 Revealed: 290 HP and AWD for Sporty Optima Replacement appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

The infographic below showcases how many electric vehicles have been sold in different countries worldwide. It also provides data on... The post Electric Vehicle Market Share appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

The infographic below showcases how many electric vehicles have been sold in different countries worldwide. It also provides data on... The post Electric Vehicle Market Share & Sales appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

J.D. Power overhauls its Initial Quality Study for 2020, resulting in a shake-up that sees domestic brands having their best showing in years. Give it up for the local talent. J.D. Power has released its annual Initial Quality Study for 2020, and numerous domestic automakers have surged ahead this year. No less than half of the top 10 manufacturers are American, and one ties for the top spot overall. First, a note for anybody comparing 2019’s results to this: the vastly higher average number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100) isn’t due to reduced reliability. “The higher problem levels we see in this year’s study don’t mean vehicle quality has worsened,” said Dave Sargent, VP of vehicle quality at J.D. Power, “rather, the redesigned study asks additional questions that allow owners to cite more of the problems that they are experiencing.” The IQ Study polls owners on various issues and problems they encounter in the first 90 days of new-car ownership. J.D. Power found infotainment to be the biggest hurdle across the board. Nearly 25 percent of all problems cited were due to things like smartphone connectivity, touchscreens, voice recognition, and navigation systems. With that out of the way, let’s get to those top makes, in ascending order. 10. Hyundai PP100: 153 SEE ALSO: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Review We start with the largest Korean automaker. As a parent company (including Kia and Genesis) Hyundai scored the most segment-level wins with seven individual model awards. H-branded models to top their segment include the sporty Veloster and the compact Tucson crossover. Loading … 09. Volkswagen PP100: 152 SEE ALSO: 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport First Drive Review The rebalanced 2020 IQS sees Volkswagen move from the bottom 10 to the top 10. The German brand didn’t score any outright segment wins, but the Jetta did slide onto the podium in the compact car class. Consider this a show of support for VW’s straight-forward infotainment systems. Loading … 08. GMC PP100: 151 SEE ALSO: 2020 GMC Acadia Denali Review General Motors’ truck-and-SUV brand slots into eighth place with a PP100 score of 151, or 15 higher than the industry average. The GMC Sierra is the brand’s best-performing model; it actually out-performed its platform-mate, the Chevrolet Silverado. Loading … 07. Buick PP100: 150 SEE ALSO: 2019 Buick Envision Review and First Drive With news that it’s cancelling its cars, Buick will join GMC as the other car-free General Motors brand. The near-luxury brand is now all crossovers, all the time. Buick will continue to focus on the high-riders this year, with the introduction of the slightly-larger Encore GX and a revised Envision on the way for 2021. Loading … 06. Mitsubishi PP100: 148 SEE ALSO: 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Review Here’s a surprise: Mitsubishi is the lone Japanese brand in the top 10 this year. Just three brands from the country scored above the industry average: the other two were Nissan (161 PP100) and Lexus (159). Even more surprising: Mitsubishi ranked third-last in 2019! Chalk up this year’s result to the brand’s no-frills approach to motoring, with straight-forward infotainment and high ease of use. Loading … 05. Genesis PP100: 142 SEE ALSO: 2020 Genesis G70 Review The Korean brand held onto its title as the top luxury model in the IQS for 2020. That’s even more impressive when we consider Genesis has done that since it debuted in 2017. The real test will come in the next 12 months: the brand is debuting the new G80 and, more importantly, the GV80, its first SUV. Both will come with a reimagined infotainment system—how well customers take to it will determine the brand’s 2021 ranking. Loading … 03 (Tie). Ram SEE ALSO: 2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Review PP100: 141 FCA scores two podium finishes this year, with its Ram truck division tying for third. The American manufacturer completely re-did the 1500 for the 2019 model year, introducing more mature styling, mild-hybrid systems, and including the return of a light-duty diesel option. A big ol’ infotainment system sits right in the middle of the center console—in portrait orientation no less—but FCA’s Uconnect system is one of the best in the business. Loading … 03 (Tie). Chevrolet PP100: 141 SEE ALSO: 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV Review The Bowtie brand shares third place with Ram for 2020. Chevrolet benefitted from two segment leaders: the mid-size Malibu sedan and the sub-compact Sonic. What’s more, the Sonic was the best-rated car overall, scoring just 103 PP100. Chevy’s crossover and SUV lineup also performed well, with segment podium spots for models including the Trax, Equinox, Blazer, and Tahoe. Loading … 01 (Tie). Kia PP100: 136 SEE ALSO: 2020 Kia Forte GT Review Some things don’t change. For the sixth year in a row, Kia is the highest-ranked mass market brand in the IQS. With four segment winners—the Forte, Sedona, Sorento, and Soul—it’s hardly surprising. Customers have flocked to the Korean brand for years because of its high perceived value. More recently the brand has ladled on style and tech without any reliability worries, and this year’s results bear that out. Loading … 01 (Tie). Dodge PP100: 136 SEE ALSO: 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody Review In a first for any domestic brand, Dodge tops the charts in J.D. Power’s IQS. It ties Kia with just 136 problems reported per 100 cars. Dodge has a two-pronged advantage here: it uses FCA’s intuitive Uconnect infotainment system, and most of its models, such as the Challenger, Charger, and Journey, have been in production for a long, long time. It’s given the American automaker plenty of time to target and fix any issues, and judging by this win, its work has paid off. Loading … The post Top 10 Manufacturers for Initial Quality: J.D. Power 2020 appeared first on AutoGuide.com. 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