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2022 Genesis G80 SportAutomotiveBest new carsDecisive MediaDecisive Media NetworkNew Cars

The Redesigned 2022 Genesis G80 Gets Sportier

by Randi
written by Randi

The luxurious 2022 Genesis G80 appears more expensive than its price. Positioned between the smaller Genesis G70 and the larger Genesis G90 sedans, it gets my vote for class-leading performance, handling, and style in the luxury sedan segment.

After six years as Hyundai Motors’ luxury division, the redesigned Genesis G80 received J.D. Power’s top ranking for the 2022 U.S. “Second Overall Among Premium Brands” and number one in its “Appeal Study” for Performance, Execution, and Appeal.

It’s hard not to notice the G80’s well-portioned design and European flair. Relatively new to the luxury class, many onlookers wonder who makes it, and some of my friends have traded in their luxury vehicles for a Genesis.

The Genesis originally debuted as a Hyundai in 2008, and in 2017, it spun off as a separate luxury division, adding more sedans and an SUV. Taking cues from Lamborghini and Bentley Motors, Genesis models have a unique upscale design that distinguishes it from other premium luxury brands.

The 2022 Genesis G80 was redesigned in 2021 and added the sport model in 2022 with unique features that include 21-inch wheels, rear-wheel steering, and sports performance.

I tested the 2022 Genesis G80 3.5T AWD Sport that came with a three-spoke steering wheel, sport aluminum, carbon fiber materials, quilted sports seats, rear-wheel drive steering, and a sport-tuned suspension.

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Genesis G80 2.5T comes in six trim levels: the G80 2.5T Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) ($48,000), G80 Advanced ($52,600), G80 Prestige ($56,900), G80 All-Wheel Drive (AWD) ($51,150), G80 AWD Advanced ($55,750), and G80 AWD Prestige ($59,450).

The 2022 Genesis G80 3.5T comes in three ranges: The G80 AWD Sport ($63,400), G80 3.5T Sport Prestige with all-season tires ($69,750), and G80 3.5T Sport Prestige with summer tires ($70,250).

Power: The 2022 Genesis 2.5T models are powered by a 2.5L I4 T-GDI engine that gets 300 horsepower. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, a multi-link front/rear suspension, and ventilated front and rear disc brakes.

The Genesis G80 3.5T Sport is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder that generates 375 horsepower at 391 lb-ft of torque.

All models come with a long list of standard safety, high-tech, and performance features that includes stability control, highway-driving assist, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, smart cruise control, LED Daytime lights, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and much more.

Additional options and packages are 20- or 21-inch wheels, premium audio, upgraded materials, heads-up display, larger instrument cluster, attention warning alerts, or sport tuning.

Fuel Economy: The G80 2.5T averages 23 City/32 Highway mpg, while the 3.5T averages 17 City/26 Highway mpg.

All Genesis vehicles include valet service with complimentary scheduled maintenance and at-home pick-up for three years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Visit www.decisivemedia.net for a complimentary subscription to my blog to get updated car buying tips, and reviews on the latest new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2022 Audi S32022 New VehiclesNew Car and Truck Test DrivesNew CarsRoadster

2022 Audi S3 Premium Plus Luxury Sports Sedan

by Randi
written by Randi

After a one-year hiatus, Audi’s S3 compact sports sedan returned in 2022 refreshed with more power, improved handling, and upgraded features. In the age of electric vehicles and SUVs, the Audi S3 indicates that some consumers still have an appetite for small gas-powered luxury sports cars.

The 2022 Audi S3 was designed and engineered with the latest luxury features, quality materials, and tech. It’s also pleasant to the eye and has improved maneuverability, making it more fun to drive around town.

Power:  The new 2022 Audi S3 generates a staggering 306 horsepower from a 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine which has 18 percent more power than the previous model and 50 percent more than the Audi A3.

The S3 gets 295 pound-feet of torque and goes from zero to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. It is mated to a seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive is standard.

The S3 targets sports car enthusiasts who want quick and smooth acceleration and fast take-offs. It comes with a standard sports suspension with a lower ride height, and when switched in the Dynamic drive mode, it produces a loud exhaust sound. An S Sport package is available that includes adaptive dampers.

Models/Pricing: Audi 2022 S3 models include: Premium ($44,800), Premium Plus ($47,700), and Prestige ($51,500 MSRP).

Price as Tested: I experienced the 2022 Audi S3 Premium Plus with Daytona Gray Pearl, which started at $44,900 MSRP. Additional options and packages included:

  • The Daytona Gray Pearl effect for $595.
  • The Prestige package is for $6,600, with advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, active lane assist, navigation plus, Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, and a head-up display.
  • The Black optic package for $1,950 adds 19-inch bi-color wheels, a black roof, black exhaust tips, black mirror trim, and run-flat tires.
  • Nappa leather package for $1,250.
  • The S Sport package added another $1,100 to the price tag, which brought the total sticker price to $57,440 MSRP.

Now in dealer showrooms, the 2023 Audi S3 has few changes. However, the base Premium model offers adaptive cruise control, and the optional convenience package includes a smartphone charging pad. In addition, prices for the 2023 model average $2,000 above this year’s MSRP.

Other features included a limited subscription to Audi’s Connect Care, a 10.1-inch touchscreen display and a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, heated front seats and mirrors, a panoramic sunroof, and park assist.

Fuel Economy: The 2022 Audi S3 averages 27 combined mpg, with 23 city/32 highway mpg.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. Experienced by Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2022 Kia Sorento HybridBest new carscrossoverDecisive Media NetworkMid-size SUVNew Cars

More MPG in Kia’s 2022 Sorento Hybrid SUV

by Randi
written by Randi

The 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid SUV, introduced last year, is distinguished by its fuel economy, performance, and versatility. While the regular Sorento offers a broad range of models and seats up to seven passengers, the Sorento Hybrid is far more fuel-efficient, comes in two types, and seats six passengers.

With today’s rising gas prices, the main attraction for purchasing the 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid is its class-leading fuel efficiency, achieving 39 city/35 highway MPG. The challenge is whether Kia can produce enough to meet consumer demand.

The Kia Sorento Hybrid is a mid-size SUV with three rows (the second row has captain seats), plenty of cargo capacity, a quality interior, and it is equipped with many of the latest safety features. It also comes with a 10.5-inch touchscreen display, has a sporty design, and it’s fun to drive.

The 2022 Kia Sorento is the brand’s second-largest SUV, positioned between the larger Telluride ($33,090) and the smaller Niro ($25,985). It is also the largest hybrid SUV in Kia’s fleet.

The three-row 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid is priced more than the non-hybrid Sorento ($31,095) and less than the new Sorento Plug-in Hybrid ($44,990 MSRP). The much smaller Niro includes more choices: hybrid ($24.690), plug-in hybrid ($29,590), and EV ($39,990) models.

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid offers two trim levels: The S ($34,090) and the EX ($36,090 MSRP). The optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) adds another $1800 to the S and $2300 to the EX model.

Power: The S and EX models are powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a lithium-ion battery and an electric motor. Together they produce 227 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The Sorento Hybrid uses a six-speed automatic transmission instead of the eight-speed in the regular Sorento.

Fuel Economy: The combined EPA estimated rating for the 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid is 39 city/35 highway MPG for the FWD and 37 city/ 35 highway MPG for the AWD.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid2022 Hyundai Tucson HybridBest new carsBest SUVscrossoverDecisive Media NetworkMid-size SUVNew Cars

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid vs. Tucson Hybrid SUVs

by Randi
written by Randi

Since Hyundai introduced its first SUV in 2000 – the Santa Fe – the Korean automaker has rapidly expanded its trucks in the U.S. Hyundai, which launched in the U.S. in 1996, has risen from zero to about 9.7% share of the U.S car market, according to Cox Automotive.

Hyundai vehicles continue to impress me with the quality and affordability of their SUVs. I was further convinced during my recent test drives in the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe and redesigned Tucson hybrids.

Both vehicles have excellent gas mileage and are equipped with the latest safety and tech features. The Tucson Hybrid averages 37 city/36 highway mpg, while the base model Santa Fe Hybrid averages 36 city/31 highway MPG. However, fuel estimates vary based on engine size and options. Both models offer a plug-in-hybrid that significantly improves MPG.

Although choosing a crossover Hybrid SUV from Hyundai can be complex since it has multiple SUVs with similar characteristics. The new 2022 Hyundai Tucson is a compact hybrid that starts at $29,350 MSRP, while the larger Santa Fe hybrid is a mid-size SUV that is a bit larger and starts at $33,900 MSRP.

Both vehicles are excellent choices and deciding which one to buy ultimately comes down to price or size. They both seat five passengers and are fully loaded with standard equipment. However, the Tucson wheelbase is 10-inches shorter at 105.5-inches compared to 108.9-inches for the Santa Fe.

2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

Models/Price: The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid models include:  Blue, SEL Premium, and Limited. They range in price from $33,900 to $41,345 MSRP, consisting of a destination charge of $1,185.

The new 2022 Hyundai Tucson Blue hybrid model starts around $29,350 and goes up to $37,500 MSRP for the top-of-line Limited version.

Power: The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid model is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged I-4 engine paired with a 44.2-kilowatt electric motor. Together they generate 226 horsepower and are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson hybrid also features a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that combine to produce 226 horsepower.

Both vehicles are exciting and eager to take off and maneuver in city and highway traffic. The six-speed automatic transmission is responsive and shifts smoothly.

Fuel Economy: The EPA estimates that the Tucson hybrid averages 37 mpg city/36 highway mpg, or 38/38 mpg for the Blue edition. The base model, Santa Fe hybrid, gets 36 city/31 highway mpg, while the higher trim models average 33 mpg city/30 highway.

Hyundai produces a full lineup of SUVs from sub-compact, compact, mid-size full-size, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and all-electric. The automaker plans to start making the new plug-in hybrid Santa Fe this fall. The all-new Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV, with an all-electric range of 298 to 315 miles, just hit dealerships. The other EV option includes the 2022 Hyundai Kona, with an EPA range of 258 miles on a full charge.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. Experienced by Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

 

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2022 Jaguar F-PaceBest new carsDecisive Media NetworkNew CarsRandi Payton

The Classy and Powerful 2022 Jaguar F-Pace

by Randi
written by Randi

The 2022 Jaguar F-Pace is a mid-size luxury SUV with premium features and efficient performance. It’s the largest SUV in the Jaguar lineup. It’s bigger than the smaller E-Pace and more affordable than the all-electric I-Pace SUV.

The five-passenger F-Pace was refreshed last year and enters 2022 with few changes. In addition to its great looks, the F-Pace is powerful, fuel-efficient, and offers a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Jaguar F-Pace distinguishes itself from many other luxury SUVs and seems to be in a class of its own. The quality of the sheet metal is superior to many of its rivals in its class. About 80 percent of the F-Paced is made with aluminum, reducing weight and strengthening its body structure.

Although it competes with other mid-size luxury SUVs like Mercedes-Benz GLE, Porsche Cayenne, and BMW X5, it maintains Jaguar’s motoring heritage. I test drove the 2022 Jaguar F-Pace R-Dynamic S model, which was roomy, practical, and fun to drive.

Models/Price: The 2022 Jaguar F-Pace comes in four different configurations: P250 ($52,050), P250 S ($55,150), P340 S ($60,750), and the P400 R-Dynamic S ($66,650 MSRP).

Power: The 2022 Jaguar F-Pace offers three engine options: the base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder six-cylinder that generates 246 horsepower, a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder that produces 335 horsepower, and a supercharged six that gets 395 horses. All models are all-wheel drive and have an eight-speed automatic transmission tuned for sporty performance.

Fuel Economy: The EPA rates the F-Pace’s four-cylinder at 22 city/27 highway mpg. The six-cylinder averages 20 city/27 highway mpg.

All F-Pace models have standard collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

They also include a standard 11.4-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, controls for the Meridian stereo system with 14 speakers, and optional built-in navigation.

To overcome past perceptions of maintenance problems, Jaguar offers the best coverage in the segment, including extended complimentary scheduled maintenance and a powertrain warranty for five years or 60,0000 miles.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. Experienced by Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2022 Volkswagen Taos2022 Volkswagen TiguanAutomotiveBest new carsDecisive Media NetworkNew Cars

Upgraded 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan and New Sub-Compact Taos SUVs

by Randi
written by Randi

Premium quality and performance describe the upgraded 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan and the all-new Taos SUVs. They’re powerful and smooth with defined performance attributes. This year, the compact Tiguan has been refreshed, while the sub-compact Taos is new to the VW family.

Which one is right for you depends on your needs? They both get good gas mileage. The larger Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV with three rows. It is powered by a 2-liter turbo I4 that generates 184 horses. At the same time, the all-new sub-compact Taos uses a 1.5-liter turbo I4 engine that produces 158 horsepower.

The smaller Taos is still roomy for a sub-compact SUV and gets better fuel economy if that is your concern. However, both vehicles average over 30 mpg on the highway, which is reasonable considering today’s high gas prices.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos, a five-passenger crossover SUV, can be ordered in front- or all-wheel drive. Volkswagen managed to produce superior handling in the Taos with two suspension and transmission systems. The FWD version is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and torsion-beam rear axle. At the same time, the 4Motion AWD option uses an electro-hydraulic center coupling along with a multilink rear axle and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT).

VW beefed up the Tiguan for 2022 with a bold, smooth, sharper-looking exterior and upgraded interior. The refreshed Tiguan is one of the best-looking SUVs on the road. However, the third-row seats are suited for children and are only available in the FWD versions.

The 2022 entry-level Tiguan starts at around $25,995, while a measly $23,495 will get you in an entry-level Taos. That’s if you can find a way around high dealer markups.

Tiguan Models/Price: The 2022 Tiguan trim levels include: The S ($26,490 FWD/$27,990 AWD), SE ($30,120 FWD/$31,620 AWD), SE R-Line Black ($32,950 FWD/$34,450 AWD), and the R-Line AWD $37,320 MSRP.

The Volkswagen Tiguan gets a standard eight-inch digital cluster in the S, SE, and SE R-Line and a 10-inch display in the SEL R-Line. Options include the IQ Drive safety package that adds blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features are standard in the top-of-line SEL R-Line, with 20-inch wheels, adaptive headlights, parking assist, road sign recognition, and more.

Taos Models/Price: The Taos S ($23,495 FWD/$25,540 AWD), SE ($27,895 FWD/$29,345 AWD), SEL ($32,090 FWD/$33,645 AWD).

The IQ Drive Safety Suite is optional for the Taos S and SE ($995) and standard on the SEL. Many of these safety features (including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring) are essential in today’s traffic. However, all models come with six airbags.

All models have automatic post-collision, which automatically applies the brakes to prevent secondary collisions. In addition, a lane-keeping assist feature is available on the S and SE and standard on the SEL. It works at speeds over 40 mph.

Fuel Economy: The EPA rating for the Tiguan averages 23 city/30 highway mpg, while the Taos averages 28 city/36 highway mpg.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

 

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2020 New Cars and TrucksAutomotiveBest new carscrossoverDecisive Media NetworkMid-size SUVNew CarsRandi Payton

All-New 2022 Genesis GV70 Enters Luxury SUV Segment With Class

by Randi
written by Randi

Since the Genesis luxury division spun off from Hyundai Motors in 2015, it has consistently introduced new vehicles and today has a full lineup of competitive sedans and SUVs. With the all-new 2022 GV70 Crossover SUV launch, the lineup is almost complete, except for EVs, expected later this year.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 is the latest entry for the brand. It is positioned squarely in the hot compact SUV segment but at an affordable price. Like other Genesis models, it is full of the newest tech and luxury features and offers more value for the money.

The all-new 2022 Genesis GV70 enters the surging compact luxury SUV market with enough sophistication, attractiveness, and sportiness to worry its competitors. Although there’s enough room in the market for every crossover produced, the GV70 contends with the Volvo XC60, Mercedes -Benz GLC-Class, Audi Q5, Infiniti QX55, Lexus NX350, and the BMW X3 SUVs.

Models/Pricing: The Genesis GV70 comes in seven different trim levels that include: the 2.5T ($42,595), 2.5T Select ($46,045), 2.5T Advanced ($50,195), 21.5T Prestige ($53,795), 3.5T Sport ($54,195), 3.5T Sport Advance ($58,645), and 3.5T Sport Prestige ($63,545).

Power: The Genesis GV70 SUV offers two engine options: an entry-level 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 300 horsepower and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter six-cylinder that generates 395 horsepower at 406 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, and all GV70 models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

I tested the top-of-line 2022 GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige that started at $52,600 MSRP. It came with the optional Sport Advanced Package for $5,000 with Napa leather, sport pattern quilting, suede, heated steering wheel, digital key entry, surround and blind spot cameras, etc.

It also included the Sport Prestige Package for another $4,900, including 21-inch allow wheels, carbon fiber trim, a 12.3-inch display, and other sports features. With the optional packages, the price as tested topped out at $64,045 sticker price.

The Sport Prestige edition also comes with a 16-speaker high-end Lexicon premium audio system, the widescreen infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE Wi-Fi.

Superior performance and handling are a hallmark of the G-Series. Therefore, it is powerful, quiet, smooth on takeoff, and easily maneuvers in city and highway driving. However, you rarely need the sports mode unless you plan to go on a racetrack.

Safety: The GV70 comes with the Genesis Driving Assist II, which controls the steering wheel during lane change, and actively helps avoid other driving cutting you off.

Fuel Economy: According to the EPA, the GV70 four-cylinder engine averages 22 city/28 highway mpg, while the six-cylinder twin-turbo gets 19 city/25 highway mpg.

Warranty: The GV70 has one of the best warranty coverages in the luxury SUV segment. It adopts Hyundai’s “Best Warranty” with a 10-year powertrain or 100,000 miles and complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles.

More to Come: Genesis recently revealed the GV60 electric vehicle (EV) at the New York International Auto Show, which is available for pre-orders. In addition, the Genesis GV70 EV starts production later this year at the company’s manufacturing facility in Montgomery, Alabama.

Go to www.decisivemedia.net for a complimentary subscription to my blog to get updated car buying tips, and reviews on the latest new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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2020 New Cars and Trucks2022 Hyundai Santa CruzAutomotiveBest new carsCompact Pickup TruckDecisive MediaDecisive Media NetworkNew Cars

It’s Here: The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Compact Pickup Truck Arrives

by Randi
written by Randi

The new 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz compact pickup truck has finally arrived in time for those who want a smaller pickup for work around the city without the high cost of fuel. Since Hyundai announced the first Korean-made concept pickup truck at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, it finally fulfilled the promise.

The Santa Cruz Concept Vehicle in 2015

The Santa Cruz is bold looking with a unibody design and modern interior features. Although slightly smaller, the Santa Cruz competes with the Ford Maverick, Chevy’s new mid-size Colorado, and the Honda Ridgeline. The Santa Cruz seats five and only comes as a crew cab with rear-hinged suicide doors.

The Santa Cruz is practical for hauling smaller loads, fits easily into parking spaces, has a lower price point, and is good on fuel. Although the pickup bed is short, it can be extended from four- to five feet. In addition, the entire bed can slide out along with the tailgate, taillights, and rear bumper. The pickup bed also offers a built-in cover.

The Santa Cruz is available in four trims. For a week, I test drove the Limited all-wheel drive (AWD) model, fully loaded with advanced safety technology and premium materials. The Limited has a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with Shiftronic, and a self-leveling rear suspension for off-roading.

Hyundai has a reputation for putting premium quality materials in affordable vehicles, and Santa Cruz is no exception. The top-of-line Limited models come with leather seats, smart cruise control, dual automatic temperature control, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with navigation, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, rearview monitor with parking guidance, surround-view monitor, wireless charging, a premium Bose audio system, and Blue Link services.

Hyundai’s Best Warranty covers all vehicles. It includes a five-year/60,000-mile basic, ten-year/100,0000-mile powertrain, seven-year unlimited-mile anti-perforation, three-year/36,000 complimentary maintenance, and five-year unlimited-mile roadside assistance.

In addition, the Santa Cruz is loaded with standard driver assistance technology that includes a driver-attention warning. Adaptive cruise control is an option on the lower-class models.

Models/Price: The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz pickup comes in four trim levels: The SE ($25,685), SEL ($28,885), SEL Premium ($37,375), and Limited ($41,415).

Power: The new Santa Cruz offers two types of engines, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that gets 191 horsepower with 181 lb-ft of torque and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder that generates 281 horses and 311 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy: The base engine with FWD Santa Cruse is rated at 21 city/26 highway mpg, while AWD adds another one mpg. The turbocharged engine averages 19 city/27 highway mpg.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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Best new carscrossoverDecisive MediaMid-size SUVNew Cars

2022 Kia Niro EV Leads the Way

by Randi
written by Randi

As gas prices reach an all-time high, so too are the sales of electric vehicles. That’s good news for the new 2022 Kia Niro EV, which combines the utility and functions of an SUV with the benefits of an electric vehicle (EV).

Now available in all 50 states, the Kia Niro EV sales were up 318% last year. In addition, it received the highest ranking among mass-market EVs by JD Powers for two years straight.

Sales of all EVs in the U.S. are expected to top 670,000 this year, according to forecasts by AutoPacific. However, automakers continue to be challenged by rising costs of supplies and microchip shortages to meet the demand.

Despite the challenges, the Kia Niro EV will most likely sell every vehicle it makes. Particularly since it has a driving range of 239 miles on a full charge, is loaded with high-tech features, has a slick design, smooth performance, and a spacious interior. In addition, it quickly accelerates from 0 to 60 in 6.6 seconds.

History of the Kia Niro

Kia Niro Hybrid – launched 2016

Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid – launched 2017

Kia Niro EV – launched 2019

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Kia Niro EV starts at $41,205 for the EX and $45,865 MSRP for the Premium model. It also qualifies for the $7500 federal tax credit.

The 2022 Niro EV receives a handful of minor changes. It now wears Kia’s newly designed badge and adds more standard features. The latter includes a 10.3-inch touchscreen that replaces the previous 8.0-inch base unit; it also comes with built-in navigation, a Harman/Kardon audio system, and SiriusXM satellite radio

I tested the EX Premium trim with ventilated front seats, a power sunroof, and wireless charging. In addition, both models have an intuitive two-zone automatic climate control system that turns off the passenger side when the seat is empty, thereby saving power.

Power: The Kia Niro EV generates 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque from a lithium-ion battery with an electric range of 239 miles. The Niro is one of the fastest EVs in its class, which quickly accelerates smoothly and is fun to drive. Sitting inside feels like the inside of a futuristic space mobile.

eMPG Range/Battery: The Kia Niro EV has an estimated EPA range of 239 miles on a full charge on the highway.

The Niro EV takes about nine hours to recharge on a 240-volt connection and one hour on a 100-kW DC fast-charger. So long trips are now down to only one-hour breaks, instead of overnight.

The 2022 Niro EV also has improved its regenerative braking, which recharges the battery while driving. In addition, the driver can use the paddle shifters on the steering wheel to choose between four levels of braking.

For a complimentary subscription to the latest new car and truck reviews, visit www.decisivemedia.net. Vehicle test drives and car buying tips by Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

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2021 Kia Sorento2021 New Cars and Trucks2022 New VehiclesBest Large SUV for familiesBest Midsize Cars for 2021Best new carscrossoverDecisive MediaDecisive Media NetworkNew Car and Truck Test DrivesNew CarsPHEVPlug-In Hybrid SUVRandi Payton

Kia Intensifies the Competition with Sorento, K5, and Carnival

by Randi Payton
written by Randi Payton

Kia Motor Company, South Korea’s second-largest automobile manufacturer, is now a force to be reckoned with worldwide, with a full lineup of SUVs, sedans, and a minivan. Once a bland maker of economy vehicles, Kia competes with popular and European cars with advanced technology, designs, fuel economy, and performance.

Despite sharing the same corporate relationship, platforms, and engines with Hyundai Motor Company, Kia has introduced a slew of new models with a unique character that distinguishes them from other brands.

I recently tested three Kia models, including the redesigned 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid SUV, the new 2021 K5 sedan, and the all-new 2022 Carnival minivan. All of them were highly impressive and significantly different than their predecessors.

2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid

The 2021 Sorento Hybrid is Kia’s first electric-backed mid-size crossover. It gets 225 horsepower from a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 177.2 horsepower and an electric motor that adds another 60.1 horses.

Kia mated the engine with the electric motor and a 1.5-kWh lithium battery that aids in producing more torque off the line and the ability to coast at highway speeds with the engine off, significantly improving the driving range on a tank of gas.

The Sorento hybrid uses a six-speed automatic transmission and offers all-wheel drive (AWD).

Model/Price: The base 2021 Kia Sorento S starts around $34,765 MSRP, while the Sorento EX Hybrid front-wheel drive is a six-passenger SUV that starts at $36,590 MSRP.

The top-of-line Sorento X-Line AWD ($42,590 MSRP) comes with multiple luxury features, including 20-inch wheels, leather trim, a 12.3 instrument display, and more. In 2022, the Sorento will offer all-wheel drive in the same price range. Next year, Kia will introduce a plug-in hybrid for about $10,000 more.

Power: A 1.6-liter 16-valve DOHC turbocharged inline four-cylinder produces 177 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, and an electric motor produces 60.1 horsepower with 194.7 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy: EPA rated 39 city/35 highway mpg.

2021 Kia K5

The all-new 2021 Kia K5 replaces the Optima, launched ten years ago. The K5 was reengineered to compete with popular mid-size sedans, while the K5 GT performance model goes up against German luxury brands, like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes, but at a lower price.

The K5 expects to continue the strong growth that Optima started. However, it faces tough competition from Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Subaru Legacy, and the Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the K5 GT performance model is going after BMW 330i and Audi A4 customers in a more aggressive move.

Models/Pricing: The K5 comes in five trim levels: The 2021 Kia K5 LX ($23,490), the LXS ($24,490 FWD-$26,590 AWD), the sporty GT-Line ($25,390 FWD – $29,090 AWD), EX ($27,990 plus $3,400 for premium package), and the top-of-line K5 GT ($30,490 FWD – $31,890 AWD).

Power: The Kia K5 offers an option between two engines: They include a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo producing 180 horsepower at 195 lb-ft of torque or a 2.5-liter inline-four turbo that gets 290 horses at 311 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy: The LX averages 29 city/38 highway mpg; the FWD LXS, GT-Line, and EX average 26 city/34 highway mpg. AWD drops that average a few miles. Upgrading to the 2.5-liter inline-four turbo averages about 24 city/32 highway mpg.

2022 Kia Carnival MPV

The all-new 2022 Kia Carnival, which replaces the Sedona MPV/minivan, radically departs from the usual minivan expectations. Instead, the new Carnival is an MPV/minivan that outdoes many SUVs in features, performance, and innovations. Plus, it looks more like an SUV than a minivan in many respects.

The Carnival is mighty and has a great sense of control on highway and city roads. It shares the same platform as the new K5 sedan, which includes ultra-high-strength steel, making it stronger, quieter, lighter, and stronger than its predecessor. The Carnival seats seven to eight occupants in has class-leading interior room and comes loaded with standard advanced technology and safety features.

Models/Pricing: The 2022 Carnival offers four models that includes the LX ($32,100-$35,275), the EX ($38,775), SX ($42,275), and SX-Prestige ($47,275).

Power: The Kia Carnival tops the segment with a 290 horsepower, 3.5-liter six-cylinder engine.

Fuel Economy: The EPA rating is 19 city/26 highway mpg. Kia plans to introduce a Carnival hybrid in late 2022 and an all-electric model in the following year.

Visit www.randolphp.sg-host.com for more car, truck, and SUV reviews. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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