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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

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

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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Despite the polarizing opinions about its owner, we can credit Tesla with giving the electric car industry the boost it desperately needed. Yes, the electric car still remains an aspiration for many due to the high initial price. And you can’t really keep it as your only means of transportation especially if there are interstate miles involved. But the recent advancements in battery technology have enabled manufacturers to make electric cars more accessible, so buying an electric car on a budget is now possible. Here are the seven cheapest electric cars you can buy in 2020. Also note, if you’re in the market to buy an electric car, make sure you check your local dealer and government websites for incentives you might be eligible for. The federal government is offering tax credit up to $7,500 that you can claim as a part of your tax return. But there are state-level benefits as well, ranging from additional discounts to free parking. BMW i3 Starting price: $45,445 We start off with the most expensive and arguably the most innovative car on the list, the BMW i3. Yes, there is a Tesla on the list and yet we call the BMW the most innovative. That’s due to its body is made out of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP), a concept introduced in 2013 that carmakers still shy away from. In addition, the car also uses recycled materials extensively during the manufacturing process to reduce its environmental impact. The i3 comes in two distinct versions, the i3 and the i3s, and both are available with and without range extenders. It makes 168 hp of max power and 184 lb-ft of peak torque in the i3 and 181 hp and 199 lb-ft in the i3s. Both are rear-drive only. The range extender is a 647 cc twin-cylinder engine that never powers the wheels directly but helps charge the battery. SEE ALSO: 2019 BMW i3 REx Review On a full charge, both the i3 and i3s will be good for 153 miles. With the range extender, the range increases to 200 miles. Interestingly, the i3 only comes with a 42 kWh battery pack. But thanks to being so lightweight (around 3,000 lb without occupants), it can go a lot further. Plus, being light also translates to lesser inertia, which doesn’t require massive brakes or extra wide tires, thereby keeping the mechanicals simple, easier to repair, and the body rust free. In the cabin you get things like three-stage heated front seats as standard along with an automatic climate control system, fully adjustable steering, and eDrive system with Apple CarPlay as standard. It also gets adaptive cruise control and automatic collision notification. A standard wall-mounted charger for your home can charge the battery up to 80 percent in less than five hours. If you use public fast chargers, the same percentage takes about 40 minutes. Loading … Kia Niro EV Starting Price: $40,290 The combination of “second-most expensive” and “Kia” don’t really sound right together. But in this instant they are, as the Kia Niro EV is the second-most expensive electric car on the list. Don’t furrow your brow as it is far from the most expensive in the market. Unlike the 2018 MY car, the Niro now utilizes a single powertrain: the 201 hp, 291 lb-ft electric motor with a 64 kWh battery pack. SEE ALSO: 2019 Kia Niro EV Review Thanks to the large battery, it can do 239 miles on a single full charge but takes about 9.5 hours to charge from a power wall socket. Use a DC fast charger however and the task takes 90 minutes. In the cabin, you get climate control as standard along with an eight-inch touch-screen infotainment screen that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Other standard features include 10-way power-adjustable driver’s perch and driver assistance systems like collision mitigation, blind-spot detection, adaptive cruise control and lane following assist. Upgrading to the EX Premium ($45,585) trim fetches you heated and ventilated front seats, a powered moonroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen system and a wireless charger. All features except the touchscreen are available as options on the EX trim. Loading … Hyundai Kona Electric Starting Price: $38,330 Although the Hyundai Kona shares its platform and powertrain with the Kia Niro EV, it is cheaper by almost $2,000. The Kona is slightly smaller compared to the Niro however, but that isn’t necessarily an awful thing. Despite the same 201 hp motor paired to a 64kWh battery pack, the Kona can do 258 miles on a single charge compared to the 239-mile range of the Niro. The equipment distribution for the two cars is similar too. But where the Niro is available in two trims, the Kona comes with three. SEE ALSO: 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric Review The base SEL trim is on the spartan side but yet offers automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Although there is no power adjustable driver’s seat or a moonroof, you do get the safety suite including the forward collision avoidance and blind-spot detection. The moonroof and eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat is available on the Limited trim ($43,240). Features like ventilated front seats, a 10,25-inch touchscreen system, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display are available on the top Ultimate trim ($46,540) only. Loading … Tesla Model 3 Starting price: $37,990 A Tesla for less than $40,000 should be too good to be true and even if it is legit, it should have some caveat, no? We thought so too, but actually going through the builder on Tesla’s website proves otherwise. What you see is what you get here. The Model 3 is the most affordable Tesla and yes, if you want the “Full Self-Driving Capability”—which isn’t an accurate name, we’re must remind—you have to shell out an extra $7,000. But in the base Standard Plus trim you get power-adjustable front seats, heated seats front and rear, and the Autopilot system. The Model 3 has a 250-mile range on a full-charge and finding a supercharger in and around the bigger cities is rarely a problem in the US. Plus, it is pretty good to drive as well. From that standpoint, the Model 3 comes across as a balanced package as it not only looks cool but drives well and offers great convenience equipment as well. Yes, the cabin does look like it was robbed but minimalism has always been a part of Tesla’s appeal. SEE ALSO: 2018 Tesla Model 3 Review The Long Range version ($46,990) claims 322-mile range on a full charge while the Performance trim ($54,990) is, well, built for performance and comes with a dual-motor setup and AWD. However, buying a Tesla is a leap of faith. Being a relatively new carmaker, its reliability and quality record isn’t flawless. And the Model 3 was prone to problems soon after purchase. But Tesla has claimed that it has made significant improvements to the Model 3. Plus, Tesla also has a return policy which states that you can return the vehicle for a full refund if it is no more than 1,000 miles old and doesn’t have abnormal wear and tear. The company offers a comprehensive warranty as well. Loading … Chevrolet Bolt Starting Price: $37,890 Chevrolet’s sole electric offering received a significant update to its range for the 2020 model year. The battery pack is up to 66 kWh and the Bolt now offers 259 miles on a full charge which is significantly more than the Niro and about nine miles more than the Standard Plus Model 3 trim. It makes 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque which should be adequate for both city traffic and short highway hauls as well. The only challenge is the recharging which without a level 3 DC charger can take up to six hours to recuperate completely from an empty battery. But you need a 240-volt level 2 charger for that too. SEE ALSO: 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV Review Chevrolet offers the Bolt in two trims, LT and Premier. Both get climate control and a 10.2-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. But keeping up with the Chevrolet tradition, many driver assistance systems standard on its competition are optional on the Bolt. That includes auto-emergency braking, forward collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. The rear traffic alert and rear park assist are standard on the Premier and optional on the LT trim. Loading … Hyundai Ioniq Electric Starting Price: $34,020 Hyundai’s Ioniq Electric is the affordable electric hatch from Hyundai that is almost strictly a city car owing to its smaller 38.3 kWh battery and a maximum range of 170 miles. The electric motor makes 134 hp of max power and 218 lb-ft of peak torque. The Ioniq Electric is available in two trims, SE and Limited. The equipment distribution is similar to that on the Kona but unlike the Kona, Ioniq gets a bigger 8.0-inch touchscreen system as standard. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard and so is the automatic climate control and heated front seats. Only the driver’s perch is power-adjustable on the Ioniq and on the Limited trim only. SEE ALSO: 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric Review Other features limited to the top trim is the blind-spot detection system, highway drive assist, power moonroof, and the 10.25-inch infotainment system. Adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance, and lane-keeping assist are all standard. Loading … Nissan Leaf Starting Price: $32,525 The Nissan Leaf is the only car on the list that predates Tesla’s entry into the mainstream markets. It debuted in its current form back in 2018 with a significantly bigger battery pack, more power, and range. The updates made the Nissan Leaf relevant again and today it is the most affordable electric car you can buy. It is available in two versions. One comes with a 40 kWh battery pack and makes 147 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain comes with the S ($32,525) and SV ($40,675) trims and is good for 149 miles on a full charge. The other comes with a 62 kWh battery pack and can do 226 miles on a single charge. It also makes 214 hp and 250 lb-ft which is significantly more than the 40 kWh version. SEE ALSO:2019 Nissan Leaf Plus Review The second powertrain is available with the S Plus ($39,125), SV Plus($40,675), and SL Plus ($44,825) trims. In terms of features too, the Nissan Leaf is quite well-equipped. It gets blind-spot detection as standard along with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. The 360-degree surround camera view though is reserved for the SL Plus only. And though SL Plus gets the ProPilot assist as standard, it is available as part of the Technology Package. As for the infotainment, an 8.0-inch system is standard and comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You do miss the moonroof entirely though. Loading … Upcoming Mini Cooper SE Starting Price: $29,900 (estimated) To say that BMW is treading lightly in the all-electric car market would be putting it mildly. After the revolutionary i3 failed to take off and the i8 hybrid was only moderately successful, BMW has taken the once-bitten-twice-shy approach with MINI. The Cooper SE will feature the same powertrain as the i3 and offer just 110 miles per full charge which is half of what you get from its competitors. One thing is certain: it will stick to the city limits. It will likely come with all convenience and safety features as standard but will not be your sole mode of transportation. What it is, is a funky looking city runabout car that will help you pose yet be environmentally responsible. Kia Soul EV Starting price: $38,100 (estimated) The Kia Soul EV is already on sale in Canada and is available in two trims. The lower trim employs a smaller battery pack that only offers 155 miles on a full charge and makes 134 hp. The other powertrain is the same as on the Niro and makes 201hp and offers 243 miles of range on a full charge. Also, it is hooked up to a 64 kWh battery pack. In the US however, it will probably be available with the higher range version only. The post Top 9 Cheapest Electric Cars To Buy appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

The days of the $10,000 new car are long gone. However, when you take into account the added safety and convenience features of today’s cars, they might just be better value than ever before. Case in point: nearly every entry on this list of the cheapest new cars for sale includes things like air conditioning, stability control, ABS, back-up cameras and touchscreen infotainment systems. Some of these features are now mandated, sure, but they make new cars safer and easier to live with for most buyers. The peace of mind that a warranty provides doesn’t hurt either. Even the most expensive model on this list comes in under $19,000, including destination. Looking for a new car deal that won’t break the bank? Read on for our list of the 10 cheapest new cars to buy in the USA. 10. 2020 Kia Soul LX: $18,610 Engine: 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder, 147 hp / 132 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 25/31/27 mpg (MT), 27/33/30 mpg (CVT) Base Price: $18,610 Kicking off the list is Kia’s boxy Soul compact. “Compact” is a bit of a misnomer really, with the Soul’s upright shape lending it plenty of interior space. Starting its third generation for the 2020 model year, the Soul includes a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth, and remote keyless entry as standard. SEE ALSO: 2020 Kia Soul Review On the safety front, the LX includes rear child-safety door locks, four-corner disc brakes, hill-start assist, and tire pressure monitoring. Driving aids such as emergency braking and lane keep assist are available on the next trim up, the $21,410 Kia Soul S. You’ll also find a manual transmission in the LX. Loading … 09. 2020 Hyundai Venue SE: $18,470 Engine: 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder, 122 hp / 113 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 27/35/30 mpg (MT), 30/34/32 mpg (CVT) Base Price: $18,470 The newest member of this list, the Hyundai Venue is technically a crossover but we don’t buy that. Don’t let the funky styling fool you: with only front-drive available, this is more of an urban adventurer than a rocks-and-mud one. That being said, the Venue is an entertaining little car, with all the baked-in value Hyundai is known for. SEE ALSO: 2020 Hyundai Venue Review There’s only one engine option available, so even the base SE gets the 1.6-liter, 121-horsepower four-cylinder. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission, with a CVT optional (or standard on the SEL and Denim). An 8.0-inch touchscreen is also standard, with both popular phone pairing options. The Venue majors on safety, including emergency front braking, lane keep assist, automatic headlights and driver attention warning on all trims. Of course it also comes with Hyundai’s 10-year, 100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty. Loading … 08. 2020 Chevrolet Sonic LS Sedan: $17,595 Engine: 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder turbo, 138 hp / 148 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 26/34/29 mpg Base Price: $17,595 While the domestic brands have largely abandoned the car segment, Chevrolet has maintained course with the Sonic and Spark. The larger of the two offerings lands on the list in sedan form, and it brings some unique features not found elsewhere here. For starters, the Sonic sedan is automatic-only, where most of the competition still uses a stick to keep the list price low. The other surprise is a turbocharged engine, with the 1.4-liter Ecotec producing 138 hp and a strong 148 lb-ft of torque. The smallest Bow Tie sedan packs in 10 standard airbags, a 60/40 rear folding seat, and LED daytime running lamps. OnStar is standard, with a 7.0-inch touchscreen featuring Bluetooth and 4G WiFi hotspot capabilities. Loading … 07. 2020 Honda Fit LX: $17,145 Engine: 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder, 130 hp / 114 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 29/36/31 mpg (MT), 33/40/36 mpg (CVT) Base Price: $17,145 The Honda Fit may not be long for this market: a fourth-gen model has appeared elsewhere in the world, but Honda hasn’t committed to its availability here. That makes the Fit one of the oldest members of this list, but it’s still a great buy, thanks to clever packaging solutions and a hint of that fun-to-drive Honda spirit. SEE ALSO: 2018 Honda Fit Review: Tiny Hints of Type R Lineage Every Fit comes with the second-row Magic Seat, which lets owners fold them in multiple ways to maximize storage space. Its 1.5-liter, 130-horsepower engine is hooked up to a slick-shifting six-speed manual, with a CVT as an extra-cost option. Where the Fit lags behind others on this list is the creature comforts. Its 5.0-inch LCD screen is tiny—the 7.0-inch touchscreen is available on the $18,555 Sport—and the LX doesn’t feature either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto either. It also lacks the Honda Sensing suite of active safety features. As a straight-forward sub-compact people (and their stuff) mover, though, we still have a soft spot for it. Loading … 06. 2020 Kia Rio Sedan LX: $16,815 Engine: 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder, 120 hp / 112 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 33/41/36 mpg Base Price: $16,815 Like the Chevy Sonic, the Kia Rio comes in both sedan and hatchback form. And just like the Sonic, the sedan is the cheaper option, undercutting the Rio 5-Door S by just shy of a grand. Both models come with a 1.6-liter engine, producing an acceptable 120 hp and 112 lb-ft of torque. SEE ALSO: 2018 Kia Rio Review The Rio follows the Soul’s tech script, with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The rear-view camera includes dynamic guidelines—not a guarantee at this price point—but that’s about it for electronic safety assists. The 5-Door S does add foward collision avoidance, however. Opting for the hatch lops an entire foot off the length of the Rio, and adds a 60/40 folding rear seat to make the most of that utilitarian shape. Loading … 05. 2020 Toyota Yaris Sedan L: $16,605 Engine: 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder, 106 hp / 103 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 30/39/34 mpg (MT), 32/40/35 mpg (AT) Base Price: $16,605 The Toyota Yaris sedan has long been a Mazda 2 in disguise. That works in its favor: the Mazda bones make this a more entertaining drive than Toyota’s homegrown offering. It also includes a reasonable amount of tech, even in the base L form, which starts the lineup off at $16,605. SEE ALSO: 2016 Toyota Yaris Sedan Review Like many other cars on this list, the Yaris uses a 7.0-inch touchscreen in the center of its dash. It features Apple CarPlay, Android Auto plus Bluetooth connectivity, some of which other, more expensive Toyotas lack. Keyless entry and automatic emergency braking are standard too. All Yarises (Yarii?) use a 1.5-liter four-cylinder pumping out just 106 horsepower, but they’re also some of the lightest new cars available, which keeps them feeling sprightly around the city. Loading … 04. 2020 Hyundai Accent Sedan SE: $16,250 Engine: 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder, 120 hp / 113 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 29/39/33 mpg (MT), 33/41/36 mpg (CVT) Base Price: $16,250 Hyundai gets a second entry on the list with its smallest sedan, the Accent. As it shares its platform with the Venue, the Accent has a lot of the same features, including a standard 1.6-liter, 120-horsepower engine and six-speed manual transmission. A CVT is optional, requiring an extra $1,100 outlay. SEE ALSO: 2018 Hyundai Accent Review and First Drive The Accent’s big advantage over its crossover-styled sibling is at the pumps. With the six-speed manual it’s capable of 39 mpg on the highway and 33 mpg combined. The CVT does better still, with scores of 41 and 36, respectively. The best the Venue manages from the EPA is 35 mpg highway (manual) and 32 mpg combined (CVT). However, the Accent sacrifices active safety assists to get its low price, and also uses a 5.0-inch touchscreen without any major mobile pairing abilities. Loading … 03. 2020 Nissan Versa Sedan S: $15,655 Engine: 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder, 122 hp / 114 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 27/35/30 mpg (MT), 32/40/35 mpg (CVT) Base Price: $15,655 Nissan is banking on the SUV craze to die down, as young adults who grew up in their back seats avoid them the same way their parents eschewed minivans. That’s why it invested in redesigning both the Sentra and Versa for 2020. Both pack in the sort of tech and convenience features found on bigger models only a decade ago. This includes emergency braking with pedestrian sensing, lane departure warning, auto high beams, hill start assist, powered side mirrors, and voice recognition. SEE ALSO: 2020 Nissan Versa Review The base Versa S comes with a five-speed manual transmission hooked up to a 1.6-liter engine. This combo is capable of a decent 35 mpg combined, though that figure jumps to 40 mpg when picking the $17,325 CVT model. All models come with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, though you’ll need to upgrade to the $18,565 to gain Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality instead of just Bluetooth. Loading … 02. 2020 Mitsubishi Mirage ES: $14,990 Engine: 1.2-liter inline three-cylinder, 78 hp / 74 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 33/41/36 mpg (MT), 36/43/39 mpg (CVT) Base Price: $14,990 The Mitsubishi Mirage is on the upswing. In 2019 it sold 26,966 units, an increase of over 10 percent from the previous year. Maybe it’s because so many competitors are dropping out of the segment, leaving the affordable little Mirage to reap the benefits? SEE ALSO: 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage GT Review Measuring just 149.2 inches nose to stern, the Mirage is one of the smallest new cars on the market. It’s also possibly the slowest, with a 1.2-liter engine and just 78 horsepower. But you’re not buying an economy car for speed, you’re buying it for, well, economy. The Mirage posts a 41 mpg highway figure, or 43 mpg with the optional CVT. The only cars that better its ratings are hybrids. Standard features are generous considering the sticker price, with automatic climate control, a 7.0-inch central display, keyless entry, and Bluetooth. If you prefer the longer (169.5-inch) sedan body to the hatch, it’s an extra $1,000. Loading … 01. 2020 Chevrolet Spark LS: $14,095 Engine: 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder, 98 hp / 94 lb-ft Fuel Economy: 29/38/33 mpg (MT), 30/38/33 mpg (AT) Base Price: $14,095 The Chevrolet Spark remains the cheapest new car in America, ringing in for a little over $14,095 including destination (but not whatever discounts your local dealer might be offering). That bargain-basement price gets you a tiny runabout—it’s six inches shorter than the Mirage—with a 1.4-liter, 98-horsepower engine and five-speed manual transmission. SEE ALSO: 2016 Chevrolet Spark Review Chevrolet quotes nearly the same fuel economy numbers for both the manual and automatic transmissions: 38 mpg highway and 33 combined. The auto scores 30 mpg in the city, with the stick giving away just 1 mpg. Thanks to a recent refresh the Spark enjoys standard features such as a 7.0-inch infotainment screen (with Android and Apple pairing), integrated daytime running lamps, tire pressure monitoring, and 15-inch wheels. Passenger space is about what you’d expect of a 143-inch long car; that is to say it’s decent, though trunk space is small. Loading … The post Top 10 Cheapest New Cars to Buy appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

The threat of fully autonomous driving is, realistically, decades away. We want to celebrate the fun of driving while we still can, but we also want to do it on a budget. Luckily, this list of cars accomplishes just that. We combed through every automaker’s lineup to find the vehicles with the highest smiles-per-mile ratio. Every one of the cars below are factory-fresh funmobiles with full warranties included, so you can rest easy for years to come. 30 grand is a considerable amount of scratch, but it’s less than the average new car price of 2019. From hot hatches to muscle cars, roadsters to rally heroes, read on for our top 10 most fun-to-drive cars under $30,000, presented in alphabetical order and including destination charges. Most of these cars aren’t volume models either, which means bigger discounts could be had at your local dealer. Dodge Challenger SXT Horsepower: 303 hp Torque: 268 lb-ft Weight: 3,858 lb Cost: $29,490 The Reasoning: The Challenger is the undisputed cruiser of this group. This big boy is a whole lot of car for the money, with a curb weight not far off 4,000 lb and over 300 ponies to play with. Dodge only offers the V6 with a slushbox, but we’re okay with that. None of the other cars on this list, not even the Mustang, have this level of cool. SEE ALSO: 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody Review The Challenger slips under the limit bone-stock, with enough leftover cash to add the cold-weather package if you’re further north. Unfortunately, the cooler visual packs, which can add stripes and larger tires, take it over the self-imposed $30,000 mark. So to do the tech packs, including the valuable Driver Convenience Group, which adds park assist, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Challenger is a big car, and you’ll want the extra sets of digital eyes. Loading … Ford Mustang EcoBoost Coupe Horsepower: 310 hp Torque: 350 lb-ft Weight: 4,089–4,155 lb Cost: $27,865 The Reasoning: The Ford Mustang is the default pony car choice for a reason. The Blue Oval offers myriad options to tailor the big coupe to your needs, from stripped-out four-cylinder coupes to loaded V8 convertibles. The entry price here represents the six-speed manual EcoBoost coupe. It out-muscles the Challenger, especially in the torque department, while also packing an extra 200 lb between its ample wheelbase. Despite that, it’s more sporting than its cross-town rival, even in comparable base trims. SEE ALSO: 2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost High-Performance Package Review The initial $27,865 hit to the wallet gives you access to a few choice options while still sliding in under the the 30-large bar. Well, so long as you want the three-pedal setup: switching to Ford’s 10-speed automatic is a $1,595 premium. Stick with the stick however, and you could go for the value-oriented 101A option package, which drops in SYNC 3, a nine-speaker stereo, dual-zone climate control, six-way power seat, selectable driver modes, and 18-inch rims. If that’s not your cup of tea, you could pick two of the three following: the Safe and Smart Package ($1,000, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Auto High Beam headlamps, Lane-Keeping Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control and rain sensing wipers); Wheel & Stripe Package ($895, stripes and 19-inch wheels); or active valve performance exhaust ($895). Like we said, plenty of choices. Loading … Honda Civic Si Horsepower: 205 hp Torque: 192 lb-ft Weight: 2,889–2,906 lb Cost: $26,155 The Reasoning: Did you know the Civic Si coupe is now in a class by itself? It’s true: the only other quick, smallish front-drive rides are all hatchbacks now, not coupes. We love the practicality of a hatch, but it’s a shame, really. For the $26,155 Honda asks for a Civic Si, you can get either a coupe or sedan. With a weight difference best measured in tiny dog, there’s no performance penalty when opting for the second set of doors. Both Si models get the same torquey, turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, with the only transmission choice Honda’s slick-shifting six-speed manual. SEE ALSO: 2020 Honda Civic Si Gets New Looks, Technology There aren’t a lot of options to drive the price up more here. You could opt for the Honda Factory Performance (HFP) pack, but its $4k price tag puts the Civic over the limit, and it’s pricy for what it offers. Add the wireless mobile charger or engine block heater if you’re so inclined and pocket the change, comfortable in the knowledge you have one of the best front-drive all-rounders out there. Loading … Hyundai Veloster N Horsepower: 250 hp Torque: 260 lb-ft Weight: 3,036–3,106 lb Cost: $28,555 The Reasoning: Want a more overtly sporty front-driver than the Civic? The only option at this price is the loveable Hyundai Veloster N. This funky little four-door—yes, the hatchback keeps the second door on the passenger side only—sits closer in spirit to the pricier Type R than the mid-range Si. A turbocharged 2.0-liter engine produces a healthy 250 hp in base trim, with a stout 260 lb-ft of torque backing it up. The only transmission option is a six-speed manual, which is a joy to row through. The Veloster’s impressive dynamics are thanks to a team led by Albert Biermann, the former head of BMW’s M division. The steering is direct and engaging, the handling balance is lively, and best of all, the N manages to feel special at legal speeds. SEE ALSO: 2019 Hyundai Veloster N Review There’s just one small catch. At $28,555 including destination, there isn’t enough wiggle room to add the $2,100 Performance Package. Not only does that bump horsepower to 275, it adds an electronic LSD, 19-inch wheels with 235/35 Pirelli P Zero tires, an active exhaust valve and bigger brakes. We consider it pretty much essential, but, well, we set the price limit. No exceptions! Loading … Kia Soul GT-Line Turbo Horsepower: 201 hp Torque: 195 lb-ft Weight: 3,036 lb Cost: $28,610 The Reasoning: The Kia Soul entered its third generation for the 2020 model year, keeping its iconic boxy shape while adding some extra attitude. Nowhere is that more on display than the top-shelf GT-Line Turbo model. Opting for this $28,610 model doesn’t leave much room in the way of options. Luckily, outside of some small dealer-installed ones, there really aren’t any to add. A 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder does duty here, familiar from many other Kias and Hyundais (including the Veloster). A seven-speed dual-clutch auto sends the power to the front wheels. Performance can best be described as “warm”, not hot, but the Soul’s rectilinear silhouette means it offers comparative acres of storage in this company. SEE ALSO: 2020 Kia Soul Review Standard kit is generous, with a large 10.25-inch touchscreen, Harman Kardon sound system, customizable interior lighting, smart cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more. If it made the cut, we’d almost rather recommend the Soul EV, which recently won the 2020 World Urban Car of the Year award. Loading … Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport Horsepower: 181 hp Torque: 151 lb-ft Weight: 2,341–2,403 lb Cost: $27,525–$28,875 The Reasoning: Mazda’s evergreen MX-5 is once again the cheapest way into a convertible in the US market. In its own way it’s a bit of a bargain: it may have less horsepower than anything else on this list, but it’s also lighter and the only dedicated two-seat sports car. SEE ALSO: 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review Mazda increased the engine’s pony count last year, bringing the free-revving 2.0-liter’s total to 181. For less than $30,000 your only option is the entry-level Sport trim, in either six-speed manual or automatic form. You’ll find standard LED head and taillights, a six-speaker sound system and Mazda’s 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. On the safety front, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring and emergency braking are all standard. Loading … MINI Cooper S Horsepower: 189 hp Torque: 207 lb-ft Weight: 2,862 lb Cost: $28,250 Reasoning: MINI’s smallest model might not be so small anymore, but that shouldn’t count against it. It’s still our pick of the range, and in $28,250 Cooper S 2 Door form, is still a reasonably priced bit of fun. One MINI tradition that persists is an expensive options list however. Even our listed entry price comes with an asterisk: you better like Moonwalk Grey, because it’s the only one of the four paint options that doesn’t come with a $500 charge. The others are red, white and black too: hardly adventurous. SEE ALSO: 2019 MINI Cooper S Convertible Review Standard kit includes faux-leather seating (though a real-leather steering wheel), selectable driver modes and a six-speed automatic transmission. Yes, we were surprised at the lack of row-your-own option too. Heated front seats are an extra $500. Loading … Subaru WRX Horsepower: 268 hp Torque: 258 lb-ft Weight: 3,294 lb Cost: $28,395 Reasoning: The WRX is unique amongst the whole lineup here as the only all-wheel drive entry. There are other AWD models out there for less than 30 large, but none come close to the fun Subaru’s rally hooligan provides. Subaru’s boxer engine sits low under the WRX’s nose, with a turbo helping it produce a healthy 268 hp. Sorry, those who want their WRX to shift for itself: the CVT breaches the price limit. Not that we’d recommend it anyway, as it robs the boxer four of its sense of urgency. That power and the all-power traction makes the WRX one of the fastest straight-line options here, and it places second for power-to-weight ratio, just behind the Veloster. SEE ALSO: 2019 Subaru WRX Raiu Review The WRX’ interior is spartan and lacking in quality, but we imagine most buyers aren’t getting into it for a cushy ride. The lack of safety features, like Subaru’s well-received EyeSight suite, is a harder pill to swallow. Still, we’re happy that here in 2020 the WRX even exists at all. Loading … Toyota 86 (or Subaru BRZ) Horsepower: 200–205 hp Torque: 151–156 lb-ft Weight: 2,776–2817 lb Cost: $28,395–$29,745 Reasoning: The Toyobaru twins are some of the oldest models in this list, first debuting way back in 2012. Despite the age they still offer a unique experience, being relatively lightweight rear-drive sports coupes with naturally-aspirated engines. A light facelift a few years ago unlocked an extra five ponies for manual-transmission cars, totalling 205. The six-speed auto stays at 200 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque, also down five from the row-your-own. The slushbox option is just $720 more on the Toyota 86; the BRZ requires $1,100, breaching the limit. SEE ALSO: 2017 Toyota 86 Road Trip Review These aren’t straight-line warriors, instead putting an emphasis on a pure, rear-led handling experience. The 86/BRZ is a lesson in balance and perseverance, requiring high revs to extract performance. Both are nearly identical in terms of spec, with the biggest interior differentiator being heated front seats and mirrors, plus automatic climate control as standard in the Subaru. We’ll miss them when they’re gone: a recent leak suggests next year’s replacement will arrive with a new turbocharged heart. Loading … Volkswagen Golf GTI Horsepower: 228 hp Torque: 258 lb-ft Weight: 3,124 lb Cost: $29,515 Reasoning: Often billed as the consummate all-rounder, Volkswagen’s GTI is the People’s Hot Hatch. It has a decent but not irresponsible amount of power, it has just enough visual upgrades to separate it from regular Golfs, and it trades zero practicality for either. The baseline S trim just slides under the limit here at $29,515 including destination. That price gets you the classic GTI touches like the tartan seats and dimpled golf-ball shifter. Yes, like many models on this list, only the manual transmission, a six-speed item—is available under $30,000. The DSG auto, while a great example of the type, is too rich for our blood. SEE ALSO: 2019 Volkswagen GTI Review Other standard features include the VAQ electronic LSD, selectable drive modes, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, and 18-inch wheels. It might miss out on niceties like a panoramic sunroof or the larger infotainment screen, but we’d argue simpler is better in the GTI’s case. The hard thing will be finding one: this is the Mk7.5’s last model year, with the newer, 242 hp Mk8 Golf GTI arriving in 2021. Loading … The post Top 10 Most Fun-To-Drive Cars Under $30,000 appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

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Most important news about Kia Motors in February 2020. The post Top Kia News (February 2020) appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel

It’s never a simple task to pick the coolest cars on sale, but our team of opinionated experts is up to the challenge. Yes, it’s been an exciting year in the world of the automobile—and below, we’ll highlight ten of the coolest rides we’ve come across in 2019. Each model listed below is available now (although at least one of them is fully sold out), and they all boast plenty of cool factor in their own unique ways. We’ve chosen a wide range of models too—meaning that shoppers after plenty of uniqueness for their dollar have plenty to consider. Find our list of the Top 10 Coolest Cars of 2019 below. 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Why: This bar-raising, American-built supercar has stirred up a buzz like nothing else in the automotive world in recent months—and for good reason. When the C8 begins shipping to dealers in the immediate future, it’ll offer supercar performance figures, at a highly compelling price point. There’s likely never been a more capable performance car offered on this side of a six-digit pricetag—meaning that the latest Chevrolet Corvette will turn in incredible bang-for-the-buck, while likely prompting numerous competitors to step up their game. The mid-mounted V8 generates the better part of 500 horsepower, and drivers can expect 0-60 in about 3 seconds—all from a low-slung two-seater with a starting price that barely opens the door on a BMW M3. The new interior looks top-notch, and shoppers can expect no shortage of performance options and add-ons to help dial in their own unique experience. Don’t Miss: Signature Corvette technologies, like magnetic dampers and a multi-mode exhaust system, combine with new innovations like a wide-spectrum drive-mode selector, and GPS-enabled suspension lift, to automatically raise and lower the nose of the new Stingray in locations where it’s more likely to whack the ground beneath. Search New And Used Cars for Sale Contact a Dealer Audi Q8 Why: One of Audi’s latest models is one of their easiest to spot. The Q8 is a striking take on a modern utility vehicle—and one designed to create its own unique identity in the marketplace, by way of unique styling elements, and the latest in high-tech. Fitted with a specialized turbo-hybrid V6 engine, drivers get 335 high-efficiency horsepower, and no shortage of thrilling torque. Quattro AWD is standard, and advanced suspension and four-wheel steering systems create a drive that’ll satisfy even the sportiest drivers. Look for high-end features including a potent premium audio system, Valcona leather seating with front-seat massage, traffic sign recognition, fully digital instrumentation, and plenty more. For the safety-conscious, Q8 comes equipped with little less than a full arsenal of Audi’s latest in hazard-detection and driver assistance tech. Don’t Miss: Active LED accent lighting, which utilizes unique exterior lighting animations for certain functions, like engine startup and signalling, which help give the Q8 an even bigger presence on the road. Search New And Used Cars for Sale Contact a Dealer 2020 Toyota Supra Why: This reincarnation of Toyota’s most famous sports car has created quite a buzz—partially thanks to the re-introduction of a high-performing Toyota sports car after many years, and partly thanks to its BMW-sourced straight-six turbo powerplant. This provides drivers with 335 suspiciously-athletic horsepower, and even more torque. A no-nonsense approach to size and weight keep the Supra light and lean, and though track-ready, it’s remarkably peaceful and comfortable when used for touring, errands, or commuting. All units are rear-wheel drive, and an 8-speed automatic transmission is standard—complete with a lightning-fast paddle shift mode. Drivers can engage Supra’s push-button SPORT mode to dial up the excitement via improved response and power, and a full complement of safety, connectivity and convenience equipment comes standard, too. Here’s a thrilling sports car that’s easy to enjoy on the daily—and one that’s more than happy to handle a track day, commute, or cross-province road trip with little issue. Don’t Miss: The remarkably quiet cabin. Thanks to adaptive dampers, an ultra-rigid structure, and extensively slick aerodynamics, Supra does a surprisingly good job of keeping wind and road noise to a minimum, even at high velocity. Search New And Used Cars for Sale Contact a Dealer Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon Why: What’s cooler than a family-ready wagon that’s bursting at the seams with a 600-horsepoweer V8 engine? Almost nothing, that’s what. Long held as one of the most badass family haulers on the scene, this flexible posh-rocket seriously hauls: look for 0-60 in about 3 seconds flat, en route to a low eleven-second quarter mile pass. There’s AWD for inclement weather, though the front axle can be disabled for skids. And, since safety is important to any family, the E63 S Wagon also includes little less than every safety feature currently offered by Mercedes-Benz, too. A drive-mode selector allows the driver to tune the ride, handling and responsiveness of their super-wagon on the fly, and more aggressive settings see a crackling, snorting exhaust note follow this machine around. Or, choose a more comfortable setting to relax and socialize on the open road in the lap of luxury. It might have performance figures on par with a Porsche 911, but the E 63 S Wagon is comfy-cruising ready, if you like. Don’t Miss: Winter-busting technologies, including 4Matic + AWD, and a high-performing LED lighting system that works to ensure finely-tuned illumination in any situation, without straining the driver’s eyes. Ski trip, anyone? Search New And Used Cars for Sale Contact a Dealer Kia Stinger Why: Here’s the big, quick coupe, without the big, quick coupe price-tag! Sure, Stinger has four doors—but like many of the pricier four-door “coupes” that inspired it, the nomenclature is subject to interpretation. More importantly, Kia Stinger is effectively engineered to give drivers a world-class driving experience, without the world-class asking price. With twin-turbo power, a fast-acting AWD system, and a chassis that’s as happy being flogged as it is being used leisurely, this one is full of surprises. Built to serve the needs of a wide range of drivers, it’s built for year-round confidence, however you drive it. For many, Stinger’s cabin negates the need to spend thousands more—it’s carefully assembled, and brimming with high-end touches. It’s no slouch on the performance front either, especially with the big V6, good for 365 horsepower. Expect a thrilling, but comfortable, driving experience built around four adults. Don’t Miss: The wintertime drive. On appropriate tires, this one’s a winter driving enthusiast’s dream: the AWD system is very rear-biased, the traction control can be dismissed with a single click, and she’ll powerslide, all day long. Or, cruise icy highways with confidence to spare, and great steering and braking feel, even on snow and ice. Search New And Used Cars for Sale Contact a Dealer Tesla Model 3 Performance Why: This all-electric super-sedan packs 450 of the quietest, smoothest and most athletic horsepower around: thanks to a dual-motor setup that also provides drivers with over 470 lb.-ft of immediate, electric torque. With AWD and all systems go, this cutting-edge four-door seriously hauls: blasting from 0-60 in a tick over 3 seconds, with the quarter mile mark arriving in less than 12. All of that with no noise, no shifting, no vibration, and no harshness. The immediate but noiseless acceleration turns in a unique experience, and throttle response is unmatched by virtually anything on the road with a combustion powerplant. Best of all, there’s room for the other half, the kids, and a days worth of shopping. Oh, and you never have to visit the gas station ever again, which is pretty swell, too. Other versions of the Tesla Model 3 are available for more modest drivers and budgets, and each shares a similar level of smooth, quiet, and potent performance. Don’t Miss: The unique cabin layout, which eliminates the instrument cluster and virtually all control consoles, instead relegating all functionality to a large, centrally-mounted touch-screen display for a simplistic but high-tech atmosphere on board. Search New And Used Cars for Sale Contact a Dealer Shelby GT500 (2020) Why: Ford’s recently unveiled the most powerful production Mustang yet—complete with their most powerful-ever engine! The new GT500 will be shipping soon, and when it arrives, it’ll give drivers access to world-class performance, from the most extreme Mustang yet! Power comes from a 5.2 litre V8 engine, complete with flat-plane crank and an Eaton supercharger with integrated liquid-to-air aftercooler for more consistent performance. Total output is rated at a whopping 760 horsepower—all of which are routed to the rear wheels via an 8-speed TREMEC dual-clutch transmission, extensively engineered for millisecond gearshifts. A manual transmission would only slow this machine down. The performance figures are fully backed by targeted, motorsports-derived upgrades—including active oil pan baffles for high g-force lubrication, dual thermostats, and the largest brakes available in an American-built performance coupe. Lightweight wheels, a Shelby-specific magnetic suspension calibration, and extensive structural strengthening help round out the package. This one’s built to perform. Don’t Miss: The GT500’s full selection of carbon-fibre add-ons gives drivers the chance to fully customize their experience through further weight reduction. The available carbon fibre wing, wheels, and rear-seat delete dial up the visual appeal of this rocket-Stang, while reducing weight to the benefit of handling and acceleration. Search New And Used Cars for Sale Contact a Dealer McLaren Senna Why: The McLaren Senna is one of the world’s most extreme road-legal performance cars, and one that bears the name of Brazilian Formula One racer Ayrton Senna. Exhaustively engineered to turn in staggering lap times, the Senna embodies the forefront of McLaren’s current capabilities in road-legal performance and design, with extreme weight-reduction efforts applied throughout. Competition-validated aerodynamics give the Senna tremendous downforce for high-speed stability, and result in a distinctive body that’s slathered with vents, ducts, and accented by a massive rear wing and airbrake assembly. A reworked version of the engine from the McLaren 720S provides propulsion—sending 790 horsepower to the rear wheels by way of a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Other extreme performance implements include carbon ceramic brakes with an exclusive compound formulation that enables higher thermal resistance and performance from a smaller and lighter brake rotor. Centre-lock wheels reduce weight even further, negating the need for multiple lug-nuts and studs on each wheel hub. McLaren’s RaceActive Chassis Control system ensures maximum adherence to the surface beneath, with active body control to help further precision and control. Don’t Miss: The incredible power-to-weight ratio. Despite packing the better part of 800 horsepower, the McLaren Senna clocks in at just over 3,000 pounds—enabling 0-60 in 2.8 seconds, en route to a sub 10-second quarter mile pass. Given enough room, the McLaren Senna can exceed 210 miles per hour. Hyundai Veloster N Why: This spunky little hot-hatch is the highest-performing version of the Hyundai Veloster ever made—and by all accounts, it’s a real knock-out. Look for a compact but flexible cabin, hidden rear door for easier passenger access, and all the maneuverability and versatility you’d expect from a compact hatchback. With 275 horsepower on tap via a turbocharged 2-litre four-cylinder engine, Veloster N is a proper pocket-rocket. Drivers are supported by a drive-mode selector, multiple drive modes, electronically-controlled differential and suspension, and a six-speed manual transmission with automatic rev-matching. Sports bucket seats, an exclusive instrument cluster, high-performance brakes and a 3-mode exhaust system that lets drivers decide how much, or little, of the Veloster N’s signature sound they’d like to hear. Designed and tested to be as thrilling as possible without compromising everyday usability, Veloster N intends to give its driver maximum smiles, any time they take the wheel. Don’t Miss: Veloster N’s extensive list of feature content. Though this machine was built with performance as the priority, it’s also a top-line model—meaning it comes with no shortage of high-end features like an Infinity stereo system, remote smartphone compatibility, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, automatic climate control, and more. Search New And Used Cars for Sale Contact a Dealer Jeep Gladiator Why: Jeep’s pickup truck is finally here! After teasing us for some time, the new Gladiator has arrived at dealer lots—expanding the Jeep model range to include a unique, pickup-truck model that stays fully in stride with the brand’s adventurous soul. Removable doors and roof panels give loyal Jeep shoppers access to an enticing open-air motoring experience, and a wide range of options, packages, drivelines, an sub-models ensure selection to spare. To the same end, a comprehensive array of Mopar parts and accessories can be specified for further fine-tuning to any budget or lifestyle. Standard is a 285-horsepower V6 engine, and shoppers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission, or an 8-speed automatic. All models are equipped with four-wheel drive for maximum confidence in any weather, or over any terrain. Selected models include additional up-level off-road hardware for the expert off-roader. Leather seating, remote start, an Alpine stereo system, and automatic climate control help dial up the feature content, allowing owners to explore new trails in the lap of connected comfort and convenience. Don’t Miss: The off-road trail cam, which allows drivers to select numerous on-screen images, provided by numerous body-mounted cameras. Select this option, and you’ll be able to see the Gladiator’s full surroundings on a single screen, negating the need to lean out a window, or exit the vehicle, to assess the nearby terrain. Search New And Used Cars for Sale Contact a Dealer The post Top 10 Coolest Cars of 2019 appeared first on AutoGuide.com. 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Got a litter of kiddies and can’t figure out what vehicle to buy? We’ve some recommendations for you! So, what are the best vehicles for families? Well, that depends on what kind of family you’ve got. There are big families and small ones, fashion-forward families and eco-friendly families. Rather than, like, recommending 10 of the 18 million crossover vehicles available right now, we mixed things up a little by selecting the best vehicles for different kinds of families. For Everyday Families: Honda Accord For your typical, everyday family that can live with a four-door car, Honda’s Accord cannot be beat. It’s probably our favorite model in the sedan segment. The Accord has a roomy and high-quality interior, TONS of standard equipment including Honda Sensing, (the automaker’s suite of advanced driver aids) and it also offers a pair of refined turbocharged engines, not to mention a fuel-efficient hybrid model as well. The Accord is safe, efficient and reasonably fun to drive. For a sedan, it just about does everything. SEE ALSO: 2018 Honda Accord Review – VIDEO Get Honda Accord Prices For Fancy Families: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon But for all its virtues, that Honda is still a mass-market model. Certain families demand more luxury, an extra slathering of prestige. For them, we wholeheartedly endorse the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon. It’s far more versatile than your typical four-door and it seats up to seven (yay jumpseats!) Beyond that, it’s beautifully finished inside and out. Oh, and it even comes with standard all-wheel drive. The entry-level version features a twin-turbocharged V6 that delivers 362 horsepower, but you can also get a super-sporty AMG version with 603 ponies and an advertised zero-to-60 time of 3.4 seconds! Now that’ll haul some groceries! Get Mercedes E-Class Prices For Outdoorsy Families: Ram 1500 Of course, certain families eschew life’s finer trappings. They love nothing more than getting down and dirty in the great outdoors. And for these sorts, there’s the new Ram 1500, currently our favorite full-size pickup. Rugged, capable and astonishingly premium across the range, this truck is more versatile than a proverbial Swiss Army Knife, and A LOT less neutral. With a maximum payload of some 2,300 pounds and the ability to tow up to 12,750, this Ram has no trouble hauling four-wheelers, loads of gravel, kayaks, you name it. And of course, it can drag massive campers without breaking a sweat. SEE ALSO: 2019 Ram 1500 eTorque Review – VIDEO Get Ram 1500 Prices For Eco-Friendly Families: Hyundai Kona Electric Families that want to minimize their carbon footprint, driving a big, burly, Hemi-powered truck isn’t going to cut it. For them, we endorse the Hyundai Kona Electric. This vehicle offers all the benefits of a small crossover, like easy maneuverability, decent interior space and energetic styling with zero tailpipe emissions and sprightly performance. The Kona Electric is more than capable of roasting its tires if you get too enthusiastic with the accelerator. A standard 64-kWh lithium-ion battery pack juices a 201-horsepower motor and provides an electric driving range of up to 258 miles. All around, this vehicle is a fine choice. Get Hyundai Kona Prices For Urban Families: Honda Fit But in some instances, even the little Hyundai Kona might be too much vehicle. An ideal option for families that live in densely packed cities is the Honda Fit. You’d be hard pressed to find a vehicle twice its size that’s more versatile than this little runabout. With a wheelbase measuring under 100 inches and an overall length of around 161, it’s a snap to parallel park, maneuver in underground garages or dart in and out of traffic. A 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides up to 130 horsepower, while the second-row Magic Seat flips and folds to transform this subcompact hatch into a tractor-trailer-rivaling hauler. Get Honda Fit Prices For BIG Families: Ford Expedition And at the complete opposite end of the spectrum from Honda’s Fit is the Ford Expedition. This massive body-on-frame SUV is ideal for BIG families that love BIG adventures. This is one of the few vehicles on the road today that offers a truly usable third-row seat. In fact, way back there it’s roomy enough for six-foot-tall adults to be comfortable all day long. For EVEN MORE space, you can step up the Expedition MAX, which is about a foot longer overall and offers commensurately more cargo space. No matter the version, you get a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 tuned to deliver 375 horsepower with a walloping 470 pound-feet of torque, all of which gets sent through a 10-speed transmission. Get Ford Expedition Prices For Fashion-Forward Families: Kia Stinger Serving fashionable families is the dramatic Kia Stinger. This fastback five-door features sporty styling and an upscale, Audi-esque interior. Add in pleasant driving dynamics with reasonable practicality and you have a vehicle that checks all the right boxes for those that appreciate seeing and being seen. A 2.0-liter turbo-four is standard, delivering 255 horsepower, but if you’re really in a hurry, opt for the silky-smooth 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6. It’s rated at 365 ponies. An eight-speed automatic is used to great advantage across the board, though all-wheel drive is offered for an additional $2,200. Get Kia Stinger Prices For Crossover-y Families: Subaru Ascent Families that can’t live without a crossover should check out the Subaru Ascent, an excellent all-around choice. With three rows of seats and room for seven or eight passengers, this utility can haul copious quantities of both kiddos and cargo. Naturally, all-wheel drive is standard, as is an invigorating 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission. Horsepower clocks in at 260, torque 277 pound-feet. Not only is Ascent the largest Subaru ever built, but it’s also one of the best vehicles in its crowded segment. Base price is right around $33,000. SEE ALSO: 2019 Subaru Ascent Review – VIDEO Get Subaru Ascent Prices For Sensible Families: Ford Transit Connect One option that’s sure to appeal to families that don’t care about having the fanciest or most-stylish vehicle, is Ford’s Transit Connect Passenger Wagon, our Wild Card pick. This commercial-van-turned people-hauler features a tall and highly versatile interior with seating for up to seven people. The standard engine is a highly efficient 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivering 150 horsepower. It’s matched to a resourceful eight-speed automatic transmission. A 2.5-liter gasser and a one-five turbo-diesel should also be available for extra powertrain choice. Providing added versatility, you can get either a single, top-hinged rear door or barn-style double doors. It’s up to you! Get Ford Transit Prices For Road-Tripping Families: Chrysler Pacifica Rounding things out, our final selection on this top-10 list is the perfect vehicle for road-tripping families, families that love to get out and explore. Hands down, the Chrysler Pacifica one of our favorite minivans. It offers style, a premium interior, plenty of passenger comfort and loads of room for cargo, all in one very versatile package. The standard engine is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that provides 287 horsepower. It’s teamed to a nine-speed automatic transmission. But if maximum efficiency is a top priority, FCA also offers a plug-in hybrid powertrain, one that delivers 32 miles of electric-only range and an efficiency rating of up to 82 MPGe. Comfortable, quiet, smooth and graceful, the Pacifica will happily devour as many interstate miles as you care to feed it. Get Chrysler Pacifica Prices Check out more episodes of The Short List! 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When it comes to electric cars (EVs), there’s nothing more important than range. Sure, comfort, performance, and technology are very important to many prospective EV owners, but typically, they want the vehicle to be able to travel a respectable distance on a full battery charge before anything else. SEE ALSO: Top 10 Best Electric Vehicles – The Short List In this post, we’re going to count down the top 10 EVs with the most range for 2019. Our list includes vehicles that can be purchased new in 2019 only, so electric vehicles or variants that have gone out of production were not eligible. This wasn’t a very hard list to whittle down, to be honest, as there aren’t many EVs for sale today. Hopefully, that will change in coming years, however, as major players like Honda, Volkswagen and Ford look to get in on the EV game. SEE ALSO: Top 10 Hybrids with AWD 10. Audi E-Tron The 2019 Audi E-Tron is 10th on our list, with its 95 kWh lithium-ion battery and dual electric motors providing a maximum estimated driving range of 204 miles. The vehicle returns the equivalent of 74 MPGe, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. ALSO SEE: Best EV Charges for your Home 9. Nissan Leaf Plus Ninth is the 2019 Nissan Leaf Plus. Serving as a long-range version to the standard Leaf, the Leaf Plus has a larger 62 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a slightly more powerful single electric motor. It will get an estimated 226 miles on a charge and is rated at 108 MPGe by the EPA. ALSO SEE: 2019 Nissan Leaf Plus Review 8. Jaguar I-Pace The Jaguar I-Pace crossover (not to be confused with the gasoline Jaguar E-Pace) has a dual motor electric drive system and 90 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which make for a maximum electric driving range of 234 miles. The EPA rates the vehicle’s efficiency at 76 MPGe. ALSO SEE: 2019 Jaguar I-Pace Review 7. Chevrolet Bolt EV General Motors’ awkwardly shaped EV, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, is very efficient for what it is. It has a single electric motor and 60 kWh battery pack, which provides a pure electric range of 238 miles. The vehicle is rated at 109 MPGe, meaning its battery and electric motor aren’t wasting much energy and do a good job at regenerating energy when the vehicle is coasting and braking. ALSO SEE: 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV Review 6. Kia Niro EV Hyundai and Kia are quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the electric vehicle space. The Niro EV is a shining example of the Korean brand’s EV prowess, with its 64 kWh lithium-ion battery and single electric motor good for an impressive driving range of 239 miles. The EPA rates the Niro EV at 112 MPGe – only slightly less efficient than the smartly engineered Bolt EV. SEE ALSO: Top 10 Surprising Cars a Tesla Model 3 Beats in a Drag Race 5. Kia Soul EV The new Kia Soul EV seems like a great offering right off the bat. It has the same 64 kWh lithium-ion battery and single electric motor as the Niro EV, but it is slightly more efficient at 114 MPGe. This enables a slightly further driving range than the Niro EV of 243 miles, although the real-world range of these two would be nearly identical. ALSO SEE: 2020 Kia Soul EV Review 4. Hyundai Kona EV Yet another Hyundai-Kia entry appears on our list in the way of the Hyundai Kona EV. The Kona is one of our favorite crossovers in standard gas-powered form and it only gets better with a torquey electric powertrain. Powering this emissions-free crossover is the same 64 kWh battery and single electric motor found in the Soul EV and Niro EV, but better aerodynamics help the Kona EV eke out an estimated 258 miles of range on a single charge. ALSO SEE: 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric Review 3. Tesla Model X Long Range You knew Tesla would occupy the first three spots of this list, right? Kicking things off for the electric car brand is its fancy Model X crossover, which can travel 295 miles on a single charge thanks to its large 100 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and twin electric motors. The EPA rates its efficiency at a somewhat poor 87 MPGe – the Model X’s potato shape certainly lending itself to this disappointing figure. 2. Tesla Model 3 Long Range The long-range Tesla Model 3 has a 75 kWh lithium-ion battery and either a single or dual electric motors, which provide an estimated driving range of 310 miles. The EPA rates the Model 3’s efficiency at a very impressive 130 MPGe. While it finds itself in second place, the Model 3 has the best efficiency of any EV on this list. ALSO SEE: Tesla Model 3 Review 1. Tesla Model S Long Range All these years later and the Tesla Model S remains the most impressive electric production vehicle, with the long-range version of the sedan able to travel 335 miles estimated on a single charge thanks to its 100 kWh battery and twin electric motors. The EPA rates its efficiency at 102 MPGe. Can anyone dethrone Tesla at this point? From HybridCars.com The post Top 10 Electric Cars with the Longest Range appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

Are you a young driver in need of a new car or the parent of one that will be making the monthly payments? If so, you’re probably wondering what are the best new cars for teenage motorists. Well, any recommendations need to be safe, so we picked cars with Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick + ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Affordability is also critical, as is reliability, efficiency, and even coolness. Anything we recommend can’t be a total snooze. Keeping all those important factors in mind, here are our picks for the best cars for teens. Get the Flash Player to see this player. Honda Fit The Honda Fit is a snap to maneuver, exceptionally efficient, and more versatile than some vehicles twice its size, thanks to that hatchback body and second-row Magic Seat. With a base price around $17,000, up to 40 miles per gallon highway, and good crash-test scores across the board from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, this car is a no-brainer. Oh, and for extra fun, they can even be had with a six-speed manual gearbox, which is great because we think it will help curb distracted driving. Get New & Used Honda Fit Prices SEE ALSO: Top 10 Least Reliable Cars Toyota Corolla Hatchback What is it that Toyota does better than practically any other automaker? Oh, that’s right, they make vehicles that last forever. With luck, the new Toyota Corolla Hatchback will provide decades of reliable service with minimal repairs. Versatile, stylish, and economical with a starting price around $20,000, this five-door just about does it all. And with 168 horsepower on tap, its performance isn’t too bad, either. Another bonus? It’s an IIHS Top Safety Pick. Get New & Used Toyota Corolla Prices Nissan Kicks Next up, a crossover, Nissan’s subcompact Kicks. One of this vehicle’s main advantages is its bargain-basement price, starting off around $19,000. But even though it’s exceedingly affordable, nothing about it feels flagrantly chintzy. The interior is reasonably nice, there’s plenty of cargo space and of course, the fuel economy is stellar, topping out at 36 MPG highway. Throw in good crash test scores and just 122 horsepower so no one can go too fast and it’s an ideal choice for teenage drivers. SEE ALSO: Top 10 Cheap AWD Cars and Crossovers Get New & Used Nissan Kicks Prices Hyundai Veloster But if young motorists want something with a little more visual pizzazz than provided by the Kicks, Hyundai’s Veloster delivers. This asymmetrical hatchback looks cool yet is still reasonably practical. Three powertrains are offered, including a base 2.0-liter engine with 147 ponies, though a 1.6L turbo with much more giddy-up is also available, as is a high-performance N model with up to 275 horsepower. We’re going to recommend the base version, which starts at right around $19,500 with a six-speed manual transmission. Yes, an automatic is offered for an extra $1,000. Get New & Used Hyundai Veloster Prices Kia Forte The Kia Forte is another excellent choice for youthful drivers. Not only does this compact sedan look great, but it also comes with an upscale interior and starts at right around $18,000. At that price, you get a standard eight-inch touchscreen, support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and much more. The Forte even earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, meaning it should perform well in practically every type of crash. SEE ALSO: Top 10 Most Reliable Cars Get New & Used Kia Forte Prices Mazda CX-3 Our next recommendation is the Mazda CX-3, one of the most stylish and upscale small crossovers available today. Not only does it look and feel far more expensive than anything that starts at less than $22,000 should, but it’s also great to drive and is extremely safe. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides the motivation, delivering 148 horsepower. It’s matched to a six-speed automatic gearbox and standard front-wheel drive. Of course, for extra grip, four-corner traction is also on the menu. ALSO SEE: Top 5 Best AWD Hatchbacks Get New & Used Mazda CX-3 Prices Subaru Impreza The Subaru Impreza’s biggest selling feature is standard all-wheel drive, but that’s not all this small sedan or five-door hatch has going for it. An IIHS Top Safety Pick+ thanks to its superior front-crash prevention technology, excellent headlights, and all-around structural integrity, this Subaru is a jack-of-all-trades. A 2.0-liter boxer-four provides 152 ponies, while an available continuously variable transmission helps deliver up to 38 miles per gallon on the highway. SEE ALSO: Why the Four-Cylinder Hybrid is the Best Powertrain in the Jeep Wrangler Get New & Used Subaru Impreza Prices Kia Soul Another top choice for young drivers is the Kia Soul. A style-focused hatchback-crossover-thing, this segment-blurring icon has been totally redesigned for the 2020 model year. Not only does it look cool, but it’s also versatile, well-built, and offers loads of technology, like standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Most models of the Soul feature a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter engine, but you can also get a 1.6-liter turbo with 201 ponies. No matter what’s under the hood, this Kia is an excellent choice for teens. Get New & Used Kia Soul Prices Volkswagen Golf The Volkswagen Golf has always been popular with young motorists, likely because it has cachet thanks to its buttoned-down looks and no-nonsense interior. Starting at around $22,000, this versatile VW gives you a lot for your money, like a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with 147 horsepower. There’s also standard blind-spot monitoring and even forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. But perhaps best of all, the Golf comes with a standard six-year/72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. It may not be as reliable as a Toyota, but that guarantee is tough to top. SEE ALSO: 5 Fun, Low-Horsepower Cars Get New & Used VW Golf Prices Honda Civic But perhaps the best new car for young drivers is the Honda Civic. This nameplate has a long track record of dependable and economical service, providing transportation to millions of people around the world. It’s super safe, starts at about $20,000, sips fuel, drives well, offers lots of tech, and is even available in a wide range of flavors. You can get sedan, coupe, hatchback, sporty Si and ultra-high-performance Type R versions of the Civic, meaning there’s something there for practically everyone, even teens. Get New & Used Honda Civic Prices Check out more episodes of The Short List The post Top 10 Best Cars for Teens – The Short List appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

Get the Flash Player to see this player. If vehicle dependability matters, you should probably avoid the following 10 models. Recently, Consumer Reports published the results of its 2018 Annual Auto Reliability Survey. Far and away dependability is the No. 1 purchase consideration of new-vehicle shoppers. That’s at least according to the influential watchdog organization. In fact, it beats out performance, price and even fuel economy. Moving on, here are some of the most problem-prone vehicles you can buy right now. 10. Honda Odyssey Landing in 10th place is the Honda Odyssey. Wait, WHAT? A Honda on a list of MOST UNRELIABLE VEHICLES? That’s just hard to believe. But according to Consumer Reports, body hardware and interior electronics proved to be major trouble spots. Somewhat offsetting these deficits, this minivan is comfortable, refined and economical. ALSO SEE: Top 10 Most Reliable Cars 9. Volkswagen Atlas Next on this list of underachieving autos is the Volkswagen Atlas. Despite offering respectable driving dynamics, a hushed cabin and even a third-row seat that adults can actually fit in, this three-row utility vehicle was savaged for its cantankerous climate-control system and troublesome transmission, among other minor issues. ALSO SEE: Volkswagen Atlas V6 Review 8. Buick Enclave Edging out the Atlas in projected unreliability is the Buick Enclave. Also a three-row crossover, Consumer Reports liked its quiet and spacious interior, easy-to-use infotainment system and comfortable ride. But minor transmission issues, as well as problematic climate-control and emissions systems, really hurt it. SEE ALSO: Is Tesla’s Elon Musk Crazy or a Genius? – The Short List 7. Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Heavy Duty Falling below these also-rans is the Chevy Silverado 2500 HD. It’s kind of weird seeing a big, tough truck on this list, but apparently, Consumer Reports subscribers said they’ve had major engine issues with these pickups as well as noises and leaks, plus troublesome in-vehicle electronics, a recurring theme on this list. 6. Kia Cadenza In the No. 6 position on this Bottom-10 List is the Kia Cadenza sedan. It competes with larger four-doors like the Chevrolet Impala and Toyota Avalon. The Cadenza is roomy and quiet, with easy-to-use technology, though problematic climate control, fuel and emissions systems were its undoing. 5. Chevrolet Traverse Moving along, the Chevrolet Traverse is also one of the most unreliable vehicles available today. Much like its sibling the Buick Enclave, minor transmission issues and problematic electronics landed it in the middle of this list, a pity, really, because it’s an attractive and highly functional vehicle. 4. Honda Clarity Surprisingly, the No. 4 finisher here is another Honda, specifically the Japanese automaker’s cutting-edge Clarity sedan. This futuristic vehicle is offered as an electric, a plug-in hybrid and even with a hydrogen fuel-cell drivetrain. Can you say complexity? Issues that dragged it down in reliability rankings include weaknesses in the climate control, fuel and emissions systems as well as problems with body hardware. SEE ALSO: 12 Facts About Alfa Romeo You Should Know – The Short List 3. Cadillac ATS Nimble and sharp, the Cadillac ATS is an absolute driver’s car, with a buttoned-down ride and peppy turbocharged four-cylinder engine or smooth-running V6. A convoluted infotainment system and cramped interior detract from the overall experience, as do glitches with its climate controls, in-car electronics and driveline. Perhaps this is why Cadillac is killing off the ATS. 2. Tesla Model X Tesla’s Model X is the second-least reliable vehicle according to Consumer Reports. Despite its driving finesse, futuristic interior and respectable all-electric range, it was failed by issues with body hardware, noises and leaks as well as cantankerous interior electronics. 1. Ram 3500 Heavy Duty Finally, we come to the most unreliable vehicle. Surprisingly, it’s another heavy-duty pickup, the Ram 3500 HD. Able to tow massive trailers and haul heaping loads without breaking a sweat, this tough truck is nonetheless undermined by issues with its steering, suspension, fuel, emissions and engine-cooling systems. It’s even dogged by various noises and leaks, again, at least according to Consumer Reports. Check out more episodes of The Short List The post Top 10 Most Unreliable Cars – The Short List appeared first on AutoGuide.com. Lees volledige artikel

New generation Kia Soul impresses automotive vloggers! The post Top 5 Kia Soul Video Previews From L.A. Auto Show appeared first on theKEEA. Lees volledige artikel