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#NEW_KIA #sorento #kia #PLUG_IN #hybrid #MID_SIZE #crossover #2023 NEW KIA SORENTO PLUG IN HYBRID - MID-SIZE CROSSOVER 2023 Pared down to a single trim level for 2023, the Sorento PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) offers plenty of comfort and tech features to complement its efficiency and performance. Highlights include heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, leather upholstery, navigation, a premium Bose audio system and several driver assistance features. But even though it's the most affordable option in this class, we still question the value. The same money buys the larger, nicely equipped but non-hybrid Kia Telluride, or the smaller two-row but more efficient Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid. The Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid is another more affordable option, but it too only carries five passengers. Still, if a three-row plug-in SUV appeals, but not the luxury price, the Kia is a good middle ground. Be sure to read our Expert Rating below to learn what our test team thought of the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid. The standard Kia Sorento is an enticing offering in a crowded segment, but the plug-in hybrid is less appealing. Its fuel efficiency and overall easy-to-drive nature are commendable, but its steep asking price makes us question its value. If a plug-in hybrid is at the top of your list, the Sorento is a competent, versatile and comfortable option. But there's no doubt that its ICE-only sibling is a more well-rounded and far more affordable package. How does the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid drive? The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid pairs a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor that pulls from a 13.8-kWh battery pack. In total, the system makes 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Posting a time of 7.9 seconds in our 0-60 mph test, the Sorento doesn't feel slow, per se, but it does trail the rapid RAV4 Prime and Jeep Wrangler 4xe for speed. Lack of pace aside, the powertrain is smoother than its rivals, with no abrupt shifts from the transmission and no juddering when the Sorento's engine springs to life. When it comes to slowing down, the Sorento is both steady and reliable. It also blends the PHEV's regenerative braking and friction braking flawlessly, and the pedal gives no hints of the changeover between the two. Our best panic stop from 60 to 0 mph was 123 feet, which is very good for a PHEV of this size, besting the RAV4 Prime and Wrangler 4xe with ease. How comfortable is the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid? All three rows of seats provide better-than-expected comfort for a small SUV. The front seats on our top-of-the-line test vehicle offered heating, ventilation and a good range of adjustment. The second-row captain's chairs (standard on the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid) were firm but more comfortable and supportive than bench seats found in other SUVs. The third-row seats are small and low to the floor but offer enough support for adults. The dual-zone climate control is efficient and easy to use even if the touch-sensitive buttons aren't as responsive as traditional buttons. How’s the tech? Our top-of-the-line test vehicle came decked out with a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, an upgraded Bose audio system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The graphics are crisp and creative, but we found some on-screen buttons a bit on the small side. The Bose audio system was slightly less impressive, and we never really found a sweet spot over a wide range of music. The voice command system is the least impressive tech in the Sorento. It lacks natural language recognition and is merely average. With eight USB ports as well as a wireless charger, passengers won't lack power for their devices. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility is standard, though wireless connectivity is not offered. How’s the fuel economy? The EPA says the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid should get 32 miles of EV-only range and deliver 34 mpg combined with the gas engine alone. On our 115-mile testing route, we let the car shift itself between EV-only and hybrid operation, likely how most buyers will use the Sorento PHEV, and it averaged 41 miles to the gallon. That's similar to what we observed in the RAV4 Prime and far exceeds our results in the Wrangler 4xe on the same route.

#new_cars #jeep #avengers #electric #subcompact #crossover #2023 NEW JEEP AVENGER - ELECTRIC SUBCOMPACT CROSSOVER 2023 Produced mainly for the EV-hungry Old Continent region, the 2023 Jeep Avenger is a B-segment subcompact crossover SUV set in the American carmaker’s lineup below the rugged Renegade as the smallest vehicle offered by Jeep in Europe. Do not think it is also the cheapest, though, as the electric Jeep Avenger 1st Edition kicked off at €39,500 (around $42,382 at the current exchange rate) when order books first opened back in December 2022. Still, Jeep is pretty adamant about boasting a successful start for the exclusive, flagship-equipped launch version of the Stellantis model that is the freshest sibling of the CMP/eCMP family. The latter also comprises known entries such as the Peugeot 208/e-2008, Opel Corsa/Mokka Electric, or the DS Automobiles DS 3 Crossback E-Tense, so the Jeep brand’s first fully electric SUV is not exactly a solo outing but rather a team effort. Recognition may be coming, though, as the Avenger is on the seven-vehicle shortlist of the ‘Car of the Year 2023’ award, and more than 10k pre-orders have been earmarked by the 1st Edition already. Now, ahead of the Brussels Motor Show apparition (the COTY results will also come on January 13th on the premises), the U.S. automaker has announced the entire Avenger range is now up for order across Europe. The fresh little SUV will become available in exactly four trims - Avenger, Longitude, Altitude, plus Summit. And there is enough time to make up your mind about a favorite because the first deliveries are scheduled for the second quarter of the year. Pricing details are probably also coming closer to the release date, and in the meantime, Jeep wants to boast about the model’s features. Those include the ultra-compact dimensions (4.08 meters/160.62 in. of length), ample storage capacity (380 or 355 liters for the trunk of gasoline or EV versions, which is 13.41 cu. ft. and 12.53 cu. ft.), or the good EV range plus fast charging capability. Jeep also brags about 400 km (248.5 miles) on the WLTP cycle, and a 100-kW DC connection. As for the EV Avenger grades, the base trim comes with full-LED headlights, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, plus auto A/C, HDC, Selec-Terrain, as well as connected services and various driver assistance systems. The Longitude adds stuff like 16-inch alloys, Altitude punches to 17-inch alloys, and a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, while the Summit stands taller on 18s, has full LED taillights, Level 2 autonomous drive, and many more. Last, but not least, the Jeep Avenger – both ICE and EV – will be available with seven exterior colors (Snow, Volcano, Ruby, Sun, Lake, Granite, Stone), dual-tone liveries (solely with a Volcano roof and only on upper-level trims), five different packages, plus a myriad of exclusive accessories across four different areas - Infotainment & Functionality, Driver assistance, Style, and Comfort. With an electric fuel range of up to 400 km in the WLTP cycle and more than 550 km in the city*. A new electric powertrain combines a unique 400-volt electric motor with 115 kilowatts and 260 Nm of maximum torque and a new 54 kWh battery. Building on the success of the exclusive 1st Edition, a fully-equipped launch version of which 8,000 units were sold following its launch at the Paris Motor Show in October, orders can now be made on the entire Jeep Avenger range. The first deliveries are expected in the second quarter of this year. The all-new Jeep Avenger is available at a competitive price, aimed at facilitating the transition to electric powertrains. In countries where Government incentives are in place, the new Jeep Avenger BEV will be available at an entry price below 30,000 euros.

#new #isuzu #mu_x #three #row #mid #size #2023 #car NEW ISUZU MU-X THREE-ROW MID SIZE 2023 The stylish, comfortable and spacious ISUZU mu-X seven-seater sport utility vehicle (SUV) range has been updated and expanded for 2023, making it more appealing than ever. Along with design upgrades that give the mu-X a more upmarket edge, the 3.0-litre line-up has been bolstered with a new four-wheel drive version of the popular high-spec 3.0 LSE, along with a new value-oriented 1.9 LS model for the first time. “The ISUZU mu-X is renowned for its sleek and modern styling, exceptional comfort, superb performance, advanced technologies and impressive safety. This makes it a fantastic family-oriented vehicle ideally suited to those with active lifestyles,” says Kevin Fouche, Department Executive: Product Planning and Programme Management at ISUZU Motors South Africa. “We are delighted to be expanding the mu-X range with a four-wheel drive version of the 3.0 LSE to give our customers even greater choice. We previously only offered the LS and range-topping 3.0 Onyx with a 4x4 drivetrain, so the new 3.0 LSE 4x4 will appeal to more customers wishing to head off-road and explore more remote destinations,” Fouche says. A total of five 3.0-litre mu-X models are now available, comprising the 3.0 LS and 3.0 LSE which can be specified in 4x2 and 4x4 versions, as well as the luxuriously appointed range-topping 3.0 Onyx 4x4 – all of which use ISUZU’s six-speed automatic transmission. “Along with the broader line-up, we have given the mu-X an even more sophisticated and dynamic appearance on the outside, and introduced several new interior features that add a further touch of class and practicality,” Fouche adds. “We are also launching a stunning new colour to the range called Norwegian Blue, and making privacy glass standard across the entire range to further reinforce the premium look and feel of the mu-X.” The sleek exterior design of the mu-X now incorporates dark Magnetite finishes for the radiator grille, front and rear bumpers, front fog lamp bezels, roof rails and side steps, replacing the Tungsten silver and chrome that defined the previous model. The rear combination lamps have also been given a refresh that continues the theme. Also new to the LS models is the fitment of 18-inch alloy wheels that are shared with the LSE, replacing the 17-inch versions used previously. A matching full-size 18-inch alloy spare wheel is now provided on the LS and LSE in place of steel rims. The alluring Onyx gains even more curb appeal thanks to new 20-inch machined alloy wheels. Everyday practicality is significantly enhanced on the high-spec LSE and opulent Onyx models with the inclusion of a power tailgate with step sensor integrated into the rear bumper. This gives the owner hands-free access to the rear luggage compartment, which is especially useful when loading shopping bags or luggage. The power tailgate is linked to the Passive Entry Start System (PESS), and can also be operated via a button on the key fob. Under the skin, the upgraded mu-X receives a harness protector for the rear differential lock on 4x4 models, providing greater protection against damage when tackling challenging off-road terrain. The spacious, comfortable and flexible cabin of the mu-X has received several styling and functional enhancements. The door and instrument panel garnishes echo the dark Magnetite accents featured on the exterior, giving the interior an even more exclusive and upmarket ambience. Leather seats are now standard across the range in place of cloth previously used on the lower-spec models, incorporating eight-way power adjustment and manual lumber support for the driver, along with four-way power adjustment for the front passenger. The seat cushions have also been revised to improve overall comfort and support, while heel mats are added for greater durability and wear resistance in the front floor areas. To aid parking and overall manoeuvrability in tight spaces, the LS models gain front and rear parking sensors. On the LSE, an auto-dimming rearview mirror is now standard, along with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, giving the driver fingertip control of the six-speed automatic gearbox. The LSE and Onyx now boast remote start functionality, allowing the driver to start the vehicle remotely from the key. This is a great feature that makes it possible to pre-cool the cabin on hot summer days or warm the interior on chilly mid-winter mornings.

#new_2024 #hyundai #santa #fe #santafe #mid #size #2024 NEW HYUNDAI SANTA FE - MID-SIZE 2024 The Hyundai Santa Fe 4th generation which was launched in early 2018 is expected to live less than originally planned. This year, the company will launch a brand-new Santa Fe to restore its popularity in key markets. What we know about the Hyundai Santa Fe 2024, is expected to be offered in hybrid and pluggable hybrid versions. Hyundai has given the fourth-gen Santa Fe an extensive facelift. Most automakers do this, often with changes in the lifecycle. Even this extreme measure didn’t seem to work and Hyundai decided to replace its current model earlier than planned. The fifth-generation Santa Fe, codenamed Hyundai MX5, will be positioned differently. According to a KCB report from April 2022, Hyundai confirmed that the new Santa Fe would be a large SUV and not a semi-large car like the current model. The Santa Fe will be a large SUV (U.S. specification length 188.4 inches). The next generation will be bigger, further separating it from the Tucson (182.3 in. U.S. standard length). This would mean that the Palisade, which is a 196.1-inch vehicle (the U.S. standard length), would be a direct competitor. ). 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Review The heavily camouflaged model looks boxier, and it has more traditional SUV styling cues. The roofline has a straighter line, the rear window is squarer and reminiscent of Land Rover’s Defender & Discovery 4, while the roof rails have a regular design, rather than being flush-fitted. The Fisker Ocean F5 AirGlider’s seven-spoke wheels are similar. Recent spy photos from Korea show the same wheels wrapped in Pirelli Scorpion tires 255/45 R20. These images also reveal a less EV-like, but aerodynamically-focused, five-spoke wheel, as well as a larger, luxury SUV-like multi-spoke wheel, on prototype test vehicles. Interior Spy media has leaked almost the entire interior of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fé, confirming that it is a significant improvement over the current model. The next-generation Santa Fe has a large dashboard that matches the SUV-like boxiness of the exterior. The redesigned steering wheel also reinforces toughness. The interior of the car is minimalistic and cohesive thanks to the integration of the touchscreen infotainment and digital instrument cluster on a single curved panel. Two wireless charging pads are built into the center console. It has a large area for two smartphones. The gear selector appears to be a column attached to the steering wheel, not a button. On the center console, you can also see two USB Type-C ports and controls for the climate control system. Hyundai’s 2024 Santa Fe will be the first SUV to feature a touchscreen-based climate control system. The dual central display layout that is typically seen in European luxury vehicles, however, is rapidly falling out of style. Although the dual central display and steering wheel may look like they belong to the Land Rover Discovery 2023, these elements are inspired by this car. The spy photos taken during the SUV’s cold weather tests in Europe appear to show that the seat heating and ventilation controls are located below the main HVAC panel. Surround-view cameras appear on the main touchscreen along with two wireless charging pads. Seats and Space The 2024 Santa Fe is shown in spy photos and videos with graphics embossed onto the backrest of the seats that mimic the daytime running light features — H-shaped elements on the outer ends connected by horizontal bands — on the seat. The backrests, headrests, and other shapes remind us of the new model’s more squared-off, traditional exterior. The beige color scheme is already available, but darker versions based on black and brown are also expected. The second-row seats will be more spacious and have a better view of the outside thanks to large windows that appear larger than the previous model. Two cupholders would be available in the rear doors, along with a cushioned seat and door handles finished in a metallic finish. Hyundai, according to an Autopsy post dated February 16th, 2023, will offer the Santa Fe next generation in five-, six-, and seven-seater versions worldwide. Hyundai hasn’t yet released the pricing for the 2024 Model Year. The Next Hyundai Santa Fe 2020 price is expected to start around $30,000. We will update the article as soon as we can with the latest pricing. Subscribe to our website to receive the latest news from SuvBazar.com. The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fé is available in five trims: SE, SEL XRT Limited, and Calligraphy. The base trim starts at $29,495 and the top trim is 43,345 dollars. You can now imagine what the price of its next-generation Santa Fe could be.

#new #hyundai #palisade #mid #size #three #row #2023 NEW HYUNDAI PALISADE - MID-SIZE THREE-ROW 2023 The Palisade's nose sees the most obvious changes: All of the original model's diagonal lines and curves have been converted to rigidly vertical cues, and the Palisade now greets the world with a big rectangular grille featuring a new pattern that reminds us a bit of the pixelated styling theme of the brand's electric Ionic 5 electric crossover. Out back, the primary change is to the bumper, with horizontal lines that emphasize the Palisade's width. New 20-inch wheels exhibit a turbine theme with—you guessed it—largely straight lines. Inside, the most obvious changes are a wider center screen (12-inches across, with 720p resolution), a strange new steering wheel, new upholstery patterns, and a reskinned instrument panel. But as with most mid-cycle updates, there are far more updates than initially meet the eye. There are a lot of new bits and pieces here (many on the options list), so rather than try to create literary art, we're just going to list 'em: A digital rear-view mirror (linked to a camera out back, so people and cargo in the back seats don't block your view), seat heaters for the third row (kids these days have it so good), fast-charging USB-C ports in place of the old USB-As, a more powerful wireless charging pad, Hyundai's first WiFi hot spot, and a digital key system (which lets owners use their phones to unlock and start the Palisade). The Bluelink app has been improved; among the updates, it now allows drivers to turn on seat heaters and coolers remotely and sends alerts if the windows are opened or the doors are unlocked. There are several safety improvements, not least of which is the addition of side airbags for the second row, bringing the Palisade's total airbag count to nine. The adaptive cruise control system is now linked to the navigation system, giving it the ability to slow for curves, and the collision-avoidance system has been enhanced to include steering assistance as well as automatic braking when backing up. Oh, and the Palisade has been fitted with one of Hyundai's niftiest features: The ability to move the car forwards and backwards from outside, using the key fob—great for getting the big Palisade in and out of tight spaces. There is also a new "dark-themed" XRT model, similar to the XRT models of the compact Tucson and mid-size Santa Fe. This trim includes off-road-themed styling elements and a dark finish for the grille and 20-inch wheels. As for mechanical updates, that's easy—aside from a new towing mode for the eight-speed automatic transmission, there are none. The 291-horsepower 3.8 liter V-6 engine is a carryover, as is the chassis configuration. That's too bad; one of our complaints about the Palisade is its stiff ride, something we'd hoped Hyundai would address in the update, though we'll wait to drive the 2023 model before rendering final judgment. We're not sold on the 2023 Hyundai Palisade's styling, but then again, we weren't the biggest fans of the outgoing model, at least not when compared to the Hyundai's platform-mate, the handsome Kia Telluride. However, we're pleased to see such a comprehensive list of useful updates—though we would like to see how much Hyundai will charge for these enhancements, and we won't know that until closer to this summer when the 2023 Palisade goes on sale. We've always liked the Palisade for its generous equipment list and upscale interior, and it appears that Hyundai has given us even more reasons to sings its praises.

#new_2023 #honda #pilot #three #row #crossover #2023 NEW HONDA PILOT THREE ROW CROSSOVER 2023 Honda has rolled out the redesigned fourth-generation Pilot for 2023, making it the largest and most-powerful SUV ever in the automaker’s lineup. Not only has the three-row Pilot been restyled and upgraded, it now comes in a rugged new off-road version called the TrailSport ($48,700 plus $1,345 freight), which has been engineered for extreme trail driving. For 2023, there are six overall trim levels of the Pilot, but broken down into 12 total variations, including front- and all-wheel-drive models. All-wheel drive adds $2,100 to the base prices of all but the TrailSport and top-of-the line Elite ($52,380), which come only with all-wheel drive. The lineup begins with the base LX ($36,300, 2WD; $38,400, AWD), followed by the Sport ($39,500, 2WD; $41,600, AWD); EX-L ($42,300, 2WD; $44,400, AWD); EX-L with middle-row dual captain’s chairs ($42,600, 2WD; $44,700, AWD); Touring ($46,800, 2WD; $48,900, AWD); TrailSport; and Elite. Besides the rugged exterior styling, the Pilot also is roomier for people and cargo, and has an upscale cabin with premium materials that give it a luxury-vehicle feel. The TrailSport is differentiated by standard all-terrain tires, steel skid plates, higher ground clearance, an off-road-tuned suspension and more. Other new Pilot features include a large upright grille, a powerful stance with flared fenders, a wider track, and larger tires. Under the hood on all models is Honda's new dual-overhead-cam, 3.5-liter V-6 engine, rated at 285 horsepower and 262 foot-pounds of torque – the most-powerful Honda V-6 ever. The engine is connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission that has paddle shifters for manual control. We had more than enough power from the engine with only three adults in the Pilot, but we did not have any cargo. Inside, the Pilot can seat up to eight people, with two up front, three in the middle row, and three in the third row. An available removable second-row middle seat can be stowed under the rear cargo floor if not needed. The available dual second-row captain’s chairs reduce passenger capacity to seven. They came standard on our TrailSport test vehicle, and with the middle section open, there was an easy passenger pass-through to the third row. Honda says the third-row seat has been made more comfortable, and the front row has the new “Body Stabilizing seats,” designed to reduce fatigue on long drives. Safety features abound in the new Pilot. They include the new or improved Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistive technologies, a next-generation front passenger air bag, improved front side air bags and new driver and front-passenger knee air bags. The extra interior space results from an increase of 3.4 inches in the new Pilot’s overall length. There is also a longer wheelbase and wider front and tracks. A new body-color roof spoiler and LED taillights make the Pilot instantly recognizable from the rear, Honda says. Sport models come with gloss black trim and grille bar, a chrome exhaust garnish, standard black roof rails, front fog lights and Shark Gray seven-spoke, 20-inch wheels. EX-L versions add chrome trim and grille bar, and machined five-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels. Five standard driver-selectable drive modes include Normal, Econ, Snow, Sport, and Tow modes. But our TrailSport also came with Sand and Trail modes to optimize off-road performance. The Pilot can tow trailers weighing up to 3,500 pounds with two-wheel drive, or 5,000 pounds with all-wheel drive. Honda's first Hill Descent Control system is standard on every Pilot. The system increases off-road capability with more control on steep, slippery declines. Our Pilot came with the Sonic Gray Pearl exterior paint, which cost $455 extra. That was the only extra-cost option on our tester, which had a total delivered price of $50,150, including freight.

#new_2023 #honda #accord #midsize #hybrid #sedan #2023 NEW HONDA ACCORD - MIDSIZE HYBRID SEDAN 2023 Crossovers and SUVs have become the de facto choice for many buyers wanting a sensible family hauler or spacious commuter, but the Honda Accord sedan has remained a sales giant despite higher-riding alternatives snatching away some prospective customers. The Accord enters its 11th generation for 2023 with revamped, handsome styling and updated technology, but perhaps more notably, its new updated hybrid powertrain erases one of the major faults of the prior model. One of the most significant changes for the 2023 Accord is lineup’s new emphasis on hybridization. The 2023 Accord is offered in six trims, the top four of which — Sport, EX-L, Sport-L and Touring — use Honda’s two-motor hybrid system. Previously, only the top two Accord trims were fitted with a hybrid powertrain. The updated-for-2023 2.0-liter Atkinson four-cylinder engine pairs with larger and more powerful dual electric motors, with one serving as an electric generator and starter motor and the other sending power to the Accord’s front wheels. Horsepower has increased to 204 hp (up from 202 hp) and torque has improved to 247 lb-ft, 6.5 percent more than what’s offered in the 2022 model. Though the updates are minor on the spec sheet, they’ve had a notably positive impact on the hybrid Accord’s overall performance. recently got behind the wheel of the 2023 Accord with its hybrid powertrain and were impressed by its updated performance. The reviewer said the new engine “resolves the previous Accord Hybrid’s excessive, droning racket under hard acceleration.” The hybridized 2023 Accord with Honda’s Linear Shift Control makes the sedan feel like it’s equipped with a standard automatic transmission instead of a CVT. This can be attributed to a more natural rise and fall of revs during acceleration, the review noted. WE heaped praise on the 2023 Honda Accord, heralding its revamped hybrid powertrain, stylish looks inside and out, suite of updated technology, and all the practicality and driving refinement expected of the Accord nameplate. The reviewer said they “thoroughly” enjoyed their test of the 2023 model, and the only quibbles against it are minor. The changes for 2023 “only confirm my faith in recommending it,” they note, while stating the revamped model can be had with its appealing hybrid powertrain “without regrets.” The enhancements to the Honda Accord Hybrid’s powertrain are not only notable for buyers, they serve as a step forward for the automaker with Honda expecting the electrified sedan to represent about half of all Accords sales. The two bottom trims of the 2023 Accord, LX and EX, continue to use a non-hybrid, turbocharged 1.5-liter engine developing 192 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque paired with a CVT. The 2023 Accord Hybrid feels sprightly under acceleration, the review states, but loses some of its verve at higher speeds. However, the author underscores the new engine is a still a joy to run through its paces, due in part to its ability to “use every ounce of the available performance” while still managing to return 35-40 mpg. The 2023 Accord Hybrid is rated for 44 to 48 combined mpg dependent on trim, according to the EPA. In addition to Linear Shift Control, the updated hybrid system has six levels of regenerative braking adjusted by paddle shifters.