Automotive

2020 Hyundai Sonata: Right On The Money (Again)

2020 Hyundai Sonata: Right On The Money (Again) The 2020 Hyundai Sonata strikes an ideal balance between performance and price.
A range of interior technology helps drivers stay connected on their daily commute.
Two engines are available and both return an EPA-estimated 30 plus mpg combined.
Hyundai debuted the 2020 Sonata earlier this year at the New York International Auto Show. Whatever it brings to the table this time you better get used to it, because you’re going to be seeing a lot of these things around. Hyundai figured out the sweet spot for this a while back, and they have been honing it and refining it ever since. Like I said, get used to seeing a lot of Hyundais around, in particular the 2020 Hyundai Sonata.
Right On The Money
The sweet spot, in this case, is the convergence of style, available features, and above all, price. Somewhere along the way, Hyundai figured out how to make good cars that are right on the money with current automotive design trends; and without a high cost for the consumer. Think of Hyundai as a near-fashion brand knock-off. You’ll look great and a la mode, and by this time next season (i.e. when your lease expires) you can get rid of your old look for what’s contemporary but not break the bank.
“Sonata is our signature product,” explained Mike O’Brien, Vice President, Product, Corporate and Digital Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Having been one of our first and most successful nameplates, Sonata is our legacy, and it needs to be special and memorable in all attributes.”
“The new-generation Sonata is a fully transformed vehicle packed with advanced personalization technology, a new platform, and an array of ADAS technologies,” added Albert Biermann, President of Hyundai Motor Group’s R&D Division. “We are confident that our customers will be pleasantly surprised by this innovative new model.”
Design Language: Contemporary Yet Pleasant
The 2020 Sonata embodies Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design language with a “sophisticated four-door-coupe look,” or so says the company. Besides all the buzz words and corp. speak, you can look at the 2020 Sonata’s design like this: it’s pleasant, contemporary, and it’s impression will fade over time. Seriously, no Google’ing “what does a 2010 Hyundai Sonata look like?” We’ll be in the same spot in 2030 trying to describe Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design language.
Now, I’m not saying Hyundai is incapable of having original designs – just look at the concepts they roll out at auto shows every so often. What I am saying is Hyundai is more interested in manufacturing cars that do three things: hit a price point, hit a feature set, and hit a fashion point. Which brings us to the 2020 Hyundai Sonata.
“Sonata signifies our vision for future Hyundai designs, great active safety systems, and cutting-edge technology that is effortless,” O’Brien said.
2020 Hyundai Sonata. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Related: Beauty is beyond skin-deep in the 2020 Sonata.
Power & Performance: Two Solid Choices
Easier to codify are the technical aspects, like how the latest Sonata gets down the road. This time around, you get your choice of two engines the South Korean automaker dubs as “Smartstream gasoline powertrains.” One engine is a 2.5-liter GDI (gasoline direct injection) and the other, a 1.6-liter turbo (designated as “T-GDI”). Either mill is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The “big” block Smartstream 2.5 engine cranks out 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft. of torque, returning a combined EPA-estimated fuel economy of 33 mpg. The other engine, the 1.6 turbo, puts out nearly the same power and fuel economy: 180 horsepower, 195 lb-ft. of torque, and 31 combined.
Hyundai never really explains why you should go with one choice over the other, so neither will I. But really, who cares about the motive power? Hyundai buyers seem focused on other things than just going fast. What is important is comfort, safety, and infotainment as you get from point A to B.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
“Beautifully Smart”
The cabin of the 2020 Hyundai Sonata seeks to be defined by a “Beautifully Smart” theme, whatever that means. There’s a big, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster front and center. It’s customizable to suit different driving modes and your preferences. In the very center of the dashboard is another large, 10.25-inch HD screen that handles all the audio-video and navigation functions. This is known as AVN and get used to hearing that phrase. It will become as standard in the automotive lexicon as ABS.
Anyway, the Sonata’s AVN screen can be split so stuff like audio and navigation displays simultaneously.
Speaking of audio, the latest Sonata has a Bose Premium sound system with 12 speakers. Hyundai says audio and EQ adjustments are made automatically, depending on the vehicle’s speed, but I’m not really going to care. Cars are not concert halls, despite the best intentions of people like Bose and Hyundai.
2020 Hyundai Sonata interior layout. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Related: Virtual Showdown: Tesla Model 3 vs. Hyundai Kona Electric.
Dual Bluetooth & Digital Keys
All of this stuff is wrapped up in what Hyundai calls “convenience technology,” which pretty much hits the nail right on the head. The 2020 Hyundai Sonata features a bunch of comfort and convenience features you normally find luxury cars. The Sonata comes with a sunroof; heated and ventilated front seats, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Qi wireless charging pad includes a cooling fan and there’s Text-to-Speech via Bluetooth.
Dual Bluetooth support means two devices can be paired at the same time. Why? One for phone calls and one for streaming audio, duh.
Hyundai Digital Key utilizes Near Field Communication (NFC) so data communication takes place only when the device and the reader are close to each other. So the 2020 Sonata can tell when you’re near, and can lock and unlock the vehicle, activate the panic alert, and start the engine. Oddly, Hyundai Digital Key is compatible only with Android phones, so you’re kind of screwed if you’ve got an iPhone. Yes, Sonatas still come with traditional keys too.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Safety & Security
Of course there’s tons of driver assistance and safety tech. For a start, the new Sonata has three radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and five cameras. These support such safety gizmos as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Advanced Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and Highway Driving Assist. There are even more digital assistants: Lane Following Assist, Safe Exit Assist; Blind-Spot View Monitor and Blind-Spot Collision Warning, along with Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, among others.
Shoot, even the door handles have a trick system called “Touch Sensor Outside Door Handles.” To lock the car, just touch the sensor on the outside of the door handle. If you pull the handle, you activate a larger sensor on the inside of the handle to open the door.
Pricing & Availability
This crazy amount of tech and safety can be yours this fall. 2020 Sonata production starts in September at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and retail sales begin in October. Hyundai has not, as of this writing, revealed the starting MSRP. Figure it will be about 15 percent less than you think, with thousands at dealerships before you realize it.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
2020 Hyundai Sonata Gallery

Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America.

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Report: Alfa Romeo cans plans for a Giulia Sport Wagon

Alfa Romeo planned to build a long-roof variant of its Giulia sedan, but axed it in favor of the Stelvio crossover.

What’s going on?

Auto enthusiasts caught a glimpse of hope after rumors suggested an Alfa Romeo Giulia wagon was on the way. Some digital renderings even surfaced, reinforcing the talk of the town and previewing what could possibly be a long-roof Giulia.

Click here for more news on the Alfa Romeo Giulia or Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

But sadly, the rumors turned out to be false, according to the latest from CAR.

Alfa originally intended to build a Sportwagon variant of the Giulia, catering to Europe’s general love for wagons. And for a moment, the potential hope to see that wagon stateside made all of us Americans excited. But after further assessment, Alfa found demand to be too small for a wagon version altogether, even in Europe.

Why did Alfa Romeo cancel the Giulia Sport Wagon?

Simply put: blame the Stelvio SUV and the high-demand for crossovers. Alfa Romeo’s manufacturing chief, Alfredo Altavilla, says the company’s betting on the Stelvio SUV to fill in the gap instead of a Giulia Sport Wagon.

The company believes will “drive just as well as a Giulia wagon would,” eliminating the need for both models. But as crossover SUVs proved they can drive well, their higher center of gravity and heavier bodies still take tolls, especially when compared to wagons.

The lack of a Giulia Sportwagon might be a bit upsetting. But considering how Alfa Romeo delayed the Giulia several times and continues struggling with its finances, the decision makes sense.

Will there be any other Giulia variants?

Although no wagon is planned, rumors are still abound for a possible coupe version of the Giulia. The two-door variant would compete with the likes of the BMW 4-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: CAR

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The all-new, Nurburgring-tuned 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT arrives as America's i30

Hyundai revealed the all-new i30 hatch for Europe in Paris last year and now, it’s bound for America as the 2018 Elantra GT.

What’s going on?

The relatively quiet, but fourth-largest auto show in North America is currently happening. Despite being the smallest behind Detroit, Los Angeles, and New York, the Chicago Auto Show still manages to have a few reveals up its sleeve.

The latest: meet the all-new 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT, recently revealed at the McCormick Convention Center.

What’s new about it?

If the 2018 Elantra GT looks familiar, that’s because Hyundai unveiled it as the i30 at Paris last year. Clearly aimed at the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Honda Civic, the Elantra GT receives a far more refined and aggressive design. But not only that, it offers a whole list of updates making it hugely compeitive on paper.

For instance, the Elantra GT has the most interior capacity when compared to any of its competition. It’s also 61 pounds lighter and 22-percent structurally stiffer, thanks to more varied use of materials. The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT also had its handling and ride specifically tuned on the famed Nürburgring. Bolstering the handling argument even further, a far superior fully-independent multi-link arrangement replaces the previous model’s rear torsion beam setup.

What powers it?

When the new Elantra GT hits showrooms later this year, it’ll come with a choice of two inline-fours. The standard engine is a naturally-aspirated 2.0L four-pot, yielding 162 horsepower while the optional turbocharged 1.6L four-pot comes with 201hp and 195 pound-feet of twist. Both come with the option of a six-speed manual, while the 2.0L gets the choice of a six-speed auto. Should you want an automatic with the turbo mill, a seven-speed dual-clutch cog swapper is available.

What other cool things come with the 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT?

Hyundai’s really pushing its wireless connectivity suites and integration. Thus, the Elantra GT comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Hyundai’s Blue Link capabilities, and even connectivity with Amazon’s Alexa.

How much will it cost?

Hyundai didn’t announce the price yet, but we can expect that information to surface as we near the car’s launch.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: Hyundai

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Lexus Debuts “Urban Explorer” In Geneva

Lexus Debuts “Urban Explorer” In Geneva Lexus has just shown its first-ever compact luxury crossover, the UX, at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show. The UX, according to Lexus, aims to introduce a bold new design, efficient powertrains, and innovative luxury features all in a smaller, more compact package. And it seems like Lexus is on a roll, as the unveiling of the UX comes after the recent launch of the new LC flagship coupe, LS flagship sedan, and the re-done RX “luxury utility vehicle.”
New Architecture
The UX is the first ride in the Lexus lineup to use the brand’s new “GA-C (Global Architecture – Compact) platform.” Lexus calls it a “super-rigid structure” with a low center of gravity to enhance handling, agility, and ride comfort, along with giving the vehicle a “distinctive driving personality.” No, I’m not sure what they mean exactly, but marketing speak, y’know.
Lexus also says the wheels feature a world-first aerodynamic design. Computer simulations and wind tunnel testing yielded a profile shape for the spokes that increases the airflow to cool the disc brakes, without compromising the vehicle’s coefficient of drag.
The new Lexus UX will feature 17 and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Engine & Transmission
The 2019 Lexus UX will come in two versions. The first, the UX 200, introduces a new 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine mated to a new Direct-Shift CVT (continuously variable transmission), an interesting move. The UX 250h pairs that same 2.0-liter gas mill with the brand’s fourth-generation hybrid drive system. Lexus has gone so far as to link the hybrid drive system with a new tech network and the in-car navigation to allow the UX 250h to proactively optimize hybrid operation by learning and adapting to the owner’s routes and driving habits. Is it just me, or does that sound kind of creepy?
But all that, and all the other connectivity features this and USB interface that, are rather beside the point. Look, you and I both know that stem to stern, top to bottom, this thing is going to be kitted out with tech and communication features just this side of the Starship Enterprise. What this is really about is size and packaging.
The 2019 Lexus UX on display at the 88th Geneva International Motor Show.
Design Language
The design, which is notable for its crisp, prominent sculpting and dramatically flared front and rear fenders, still looks like an SUV, but more compact. The whole design seeks to envelope the cabin and provide a driver-focused cockpit and a roomy, relaxing space for passengers. The vehicle’s smaller proportions (103.9-inch wheelbase) allow for easy maneuverability, with a tiny, best-in-segment, according to Lexus, 34-foot turning circle. The 177-inch length lets the Lexus UX easily slip into “compact only” parking spaces.
Oh, and by the by, UX stands for Urban Explorer, which is cheesy.

Styling Cues
Sadly, the Urban Explorer has that same hideous Lexus spindle grille up front, but this time around it has a new, block-shape mesh pattern with individual elements that gradually change in shape as they radiate out from the central Lexus emblem. Yawn. Daytime running lights are arranged in an arrowhead pattern above the headlights and out back, the rear goes for an elegant yet simple treatment, contrasting with the flared fenders. The UX also sports the company’s latest design feature: full-width taillights formed by 120 LEDs tapering toward the center.
Pricing & Availability
So yeah, the bottom line is this: It’s the new Lexus SUV/crossover that will (most likely) work exceedingly well in mall parking lots as well as in your nearest downtown. The UX 200 and UX 250h will go into production this fall and go on sale in December. No word on pricing yet, but it will be announced closer to that time.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
2019 Lexus UX Gallery

Photos & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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New Dodge Challenger Package Reminds Us Why Muscle Cars Rule

New Dodge Challenger Package Reminds Us Why Muscle Cars Rule Ask Dodge any question today and the answer is horsepower. Is it necessary to have a family hauler approaching 500 horsepower in any automaker’s product lineup, or in your driveway for that matter? Nope. But yes. Yes it is. Ask any Mopar fan and they will likely agree. And Mopar enthusiasts can fall in love with their beloved Challenger all over again as Dodge has just released the new Shakedown Package.
Loud & Proud
Dodge is a refreshing reminder of what cars used to be – and still can be. They are the only automaker carrying on the muscle car mantra, proudly holding the torch of an era we long thought had passed. They make big engines. And they make big cars. It’s a beautiful thing. So much in the automotive business today is focused on infotainment or connectivity or better efficiency. Or it’s focused on autonomous driving, which we’re led to believe is the answer to all our ills. I’m not saying these things are unimportant – they are – but every once in awhile, it’s nice to see a car with attitude that won’t take you know what from anybody.
The cars that do this best are the Dodge Challenger and Charger. Detroit Muscle with a capital D and M.
The Shakedown Package is now available for certain Dodge Challenger models. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Shakedown Package
To amplify that attitude further, the Challenger R/T Shaker, R/T Plus Shaker, and 392 Hemi Scat Pack Shaker now have the option for the Shakedown Package. Uniting old-school muscle and modern styling, the Shakedown Package adds unique asymmetrical black racing stripes that flow up and over the rear decklid and roof, then around the Shaker hood scoop. The package was inspired by the 1971 Dodge Shakedown Challenger that debuted at the 2016 SEMA show.
“Dodge/SRT has a rich history of using iconic heritage and high-impact colors and unique graphics to make our vehicles look custom, straight from the factory,” explained Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Car Brands, Dodge/SRT, Chrysler and Fiat – FCA North America.
The upgraded Alpine audio system is a really sweet addition to the Shakedown Package, and nobody has to tell us twice to crank the volume. The R/T Shaker receives six premium speakers and a 275-watt amplifier, while the R/T Shaker Plus and 392 Hemi Scat Pack Shaker receive nine – count ’em nine – premium speakers and a 506-watt amplifier.
The best part is the price. The Shakedown Package is available for all exterior colors for an MSRP of $995. Not unreasonable at all.
2018 Dodge Challenger T/A in Plum Crazy. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Colorful Creations
Also new for 2018 are the iconic B5 Blue and Plum Crazy paint colors for both Challenger and Charger. Dodge says initially Challenger T/A, T/A Plus, and the T/A 392 will get first dibs, but other Challenger models will have the colors as options later on.
In the late 60s and early 70s, B5 Blue and Plum Crazy were the hottest colors for these cars, and it brings up a warm sense of nostalgia to see them return. These are the ideal car show colors having rolled out of the factory almost 50 years ago. Known as High Impact Paint, the roster included such hues as Panther Pink, Hemi Orange, Top Banana, Sassy Grass, Go Mango, and of course, B5 Blue and Plum Crazy. What a time indeed.
2018 Dodge Charger in B5 Blue. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Answering The Call
Dodge says the Shakedown Package and legacy colors are about answering the call of today’s muscle car and performance enthusiast. It’s about that “Mopar-or-no-car” mindset, and it’s honestly just really refreshing to see.
“Whether a customer remembers B5 and Plum Crazy from when they were new in the ‘60s and ‘70s or they’re a new customer today, these paint colors and unique Shaker stripes stand out in the crowd and speak to our customers’ passion for their cars and their love of the Dodge and SRT brands,” Beahm said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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Nissan extends the 2018 Titan lineup with a King Cab configuration

Nissan adds a new King Cab configuration to the 2018 Titan’s lineup, allowing for seating up to six.

What’s going on?

The 2017 Chicago Auto Show is what’s going on, and Nissan brought some new offerings to show off. The latest we have here is a new body option for the 2018 Nissan Titan. Now, you can get the Titan in King Cab style, meaning it sports an extra row of seating in the back over the standard cab. But it’s smaller than the full four-door Quad Cab variant.

Where as the Nissan Titan Quad Cab comes with four full-size doors, the Titan King Cab comes with two regular front doors and two rear-hinged, rear doors. The style will be available on both the half-ton Titans and the larger, heavier duty Titan XD. But only a 6.5-foot bed can be paired with any of the King Cabs.

Should buyers also want to delete the rear bench on the King Cab for more storage space, that’s also an option.

Other than that, what else is new about it?

Not much.

2017 Nissan Titan King Cab

OK, what powers it?

As you’d expect, the King Cab Titans only come with the traditional gasser 5.6L V8 with 390 horsepower. The larger Titan XD could be fitted with the lovely 5.0L Cummins turbodiesel V8 with 310hp and 555 pound-feet of torque. The gas V8 comes with a six-speed automatic while the diesel gets a seven-speed box.

That means the towing capacities of the new King Cab Titans are similar to the Quad Cab and standard cab models, depending the engine choice. The 5.6L gas V8 Titan King Cab can tow up to 9,410 pounds with a max payload of 1,640 pounds. While the diesel is expectedly more capable, towing up to 12,510 pounds and a max payload of 2,710 pounds.

When will it come out?

Nissan didn’t officially announce the pricing for the King Cab Titans. But that information is likely to surface as we near the spring launch date.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: Nissan

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2018 Kia Niro PHEV EX Premium Review

2018 Kia Niro PHEV EX Premium Review
If you haven’t heard of the Kia Niro, it’s a new subcompact wagon/hatchback with a hybrid gas-electric powertrain that was introduced last year. Kia says it’s a crossover, but since it isn’t offered with all-wheel drive, we’ll classify it in the hatch and wagon category. Either way, it’s a smart new entry with a lower stance than a typical crossover. It offers five-door utility and the vertical liftgate makes it feel like a wagon.
This week we drove the 2018 Kia Niro PHEV EX Premium.
What’s New For 2018
The new Niro Plug-in Hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) adds lane keeping assist, replacing the previous lane departure warning system. It’s included in the Advanced Technology package available on LX and EX trims, and it’s standard on the top Touring trim.
Features & Options
The 2018 Kia Niro PHEV EX trim ($34,500) comes standard with power-folding and heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear air conditioning vents, an additional USB charge port, and a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert.
The EX Premium trim adds a 10-way power driver’s seat, xenon headlights, a gloss black front grille with chrome trim, ventilated front seats, driver-seat memory function, and a heated steering wheel. There’s also an eight-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and an eight-speaker premium Harmon Kardon sound system. LED map lights, the front and rear parking system, wireless phone charging, and a 110-volt power outlet round out the list of add-ons.
Safety features include Kia’s Forward Collision Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems. Total MSRP including destination: $35,575.

Interior Highlights
Stepping inside the cabin of the Niro EX Premium reveals an all-black interior with light colored stitching on the door panels, seats, and center console. The quality of the materials is good and most of the surfaces soft. There are no real clues to it being a hybrid inside, except for an Eco badge on the dash and the EV mode gauge showing battery usage.
This tester came with soft leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats for all-weather comfort. The front seats were comfortable and well bolstered for our more spirited driving this week. The back seats are canted backward offering plenty of room for taller adults making headroom generous.
The new Niro offers a fair amount of cargo space, but not as much as a Toyota Prius. It comes with 19.4 cubic feet with the rear seat up, and 54.5 cubic feet with the seats down. The rear hatch offers greater utility with a charging cord included, along with a handy storage compartment below the rear deck.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The new Kia Niro PHEV is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, making 104 horsepower and 109 lb-ft. of torque. It’s coupled with an AC Synchronous Permanent Magnet Motor that creates another 60 horsepower and 125 lb-ft. of torque. Kia says total system output is 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft. of torque.
Both are mated to a Kia-built six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The electric motor acts as a generator, getting its energy from braking and deceleration, and charging a 8.9 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. The Niro can run on electric power for 26 miles of all-electric driving range.
EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 105 MPGe combined (city/highway) mpg. Overall, the Niro PHEV offers an estimated 560 miles of total range with a 48/44/46 rating (city/highway/combined).

Driving Dynamics
The Kia Niro hybrid is one of the best we’ve tested, partly because it offers a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, rather than a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Once we got underway, the Niro hybrid felt like a typical gas-only vehicle, mainly because it doesn’t have the annoying characteristics of the CVTs usually found in hybrids like the Toyota Prius.
As we drove the Niro this week, it was fun to see how much electric battery power we could generate by using the regenerative braking technology. Because we tested the vehicle in the mountains west of Denver, we had plenty of steep declines to help get more battery power. The Eco EV mode gauge showed us when we were charging the battery and when it was draining. We never had to use the cord to recharge because we had recharged with our driving alone. We were able to drive all week commuting to Denver on just slightly more than 1/2 tank of gas.
The shift from all-electric to the gas engine is seamless and virtually unnoticeable. The only thing that allows you to tell it’s a hybrid is the slight whine of the brakes when it’s recharging the battery. For those wanting a sporty driving experience, the dual-clutch transmission can be manually shifted in Sport mode. It offers a more dynamic driving experience, but fuel mileage suffers. Eco mode is where we got the best mileage, but power is much less too. If you do need extra power, you just slide the gear shifter to the left for Sport, and the small hatchback comes alive, and easily keeps up with traffic on the freeway.
The Kia Niro offers a smooth and comfortable ride on the highway. It’s light with a low center of gravity largely giving it excellent handling. It stayed flat in the tight mountain curves for us.
Conclusion
The 2018 Kia Niro is a new hybrid that could change the way we view fuel-efficient technology. We think it’s better than the Toyota Prius with its six-speed transmission and superior handling and driving dynamics. You even get a Sport mode if you are a driving enthusiast.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
Kia Niro Gallery

2018 Kia Niro Official Site.
Photos: Kia Motors America (2017 and non-PHEV models also shown).

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Le Fil Rouge Concept: The Future Hyundai?

Le Fil Rouge Concept: The Future Hyundai? Hyundai recently unveiled the Le Fil Rouge (HDC-1) concept at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show. As the name implies, Le Fil Rouge (common thread) is Hyundai’s belief that past, present, and future designs are interconnected.
“Le Fil Rouge is a reinterpretation of Hyundai’s design DNA that originated from the brand’s historical Hyundai Coupe Concept in 1974,” explained Luc Donckerwolke, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai’s Design Center.
Four Points
Is this a new era for Hyundai and a preview of what their next cars will look like? It appears so. Hyundai calls this new design “Sensuous Sportiness,” which centers on four different but distinct traits: proportion, architecture, styling, and technology. Here is a brief look at what these four individual elements mean.
“Building on our long history of creating distinctive and sporty character in vehicles, we will open a new era for Hyundai design,” Donckerwolke said.
The Hyundai Le Fil Rouge concept at the 88th Geneva International Motor Show.
Proportion & Architecture
Proportion will be achieved through things like a longer wheel base, larger wheels, and shorter overhangs. The proportion aspect also involves how the driver will sit in the car and how the roofline impacts the vehicle’s appearance. In a similar way, the architecture component – or “Light Architecture” as Hyundai dubs it – will create a forward-motion look and feel.
“Tube Architecture” is the expansion of Light Architecture, only on the inside. The idea, according to Hyundai, is to create an emotional response inside the vehicle that matches the exterior. Tube Architecture also accounts for the interior’s overall ergonomics while prioritizing a lightweight design to increase performance.
Photo: Hyundai Motor Company.
Styling & Technology
Although styling seems to be the biggest element, what Hyundai really wants is for their cars to be recognized from a distance; and this new design language incorporates the artistic elements necessary to make that happen. The technology part seems self explanatory, but with regard to where Hyundai wants to go, it shows up in little, unexpected ways.
“Our goal is to build a beloved brand by creating vehicles with heightened emotional value to reshape the landscape of car design,” said Sang-yup Lee, Vice President and Head of Hyundai Styling.”
Tech for Hyundai means more than just intuitive controls and panoramic floating displays, but also re-vitalized wood and special fabrics that create emotion when a driver sits down. The Sensuous Sportiness theme will expand to all Hyundai vehicles, from sedans to SUVs. The ultimate goal is to bring new levels of beauty, charisma, and desirability to the product lineup.
“This is the foundation of our concept,” Lee added.
In Person
The Hyundai Le Fil Rouge concept is on display at the Geneva International Motor Show until the 18th.
Hyundai Le Fil Rouge Concept Gallery

Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor Company.

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Ram Heavy Duty Night Editions Debut In The Windy City

Ram Heavy Duty trucks will mean business at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show as a new special package is revealed. The Night package is based on the monochromatic Sport appearance package, and will be available on Ram 2500 and 3500. The Night package will dress these powerful machines up even more, from the wheels to the grille.

The idea was to create a performance oriented feel.

“Truck enthusiasts look for ways to stand out from the crowd and Ram is building the best trucks in the enthusiast segment,” explained Mike Manley, Head of Ram Brand, FCA-Global.

Features & Treatments

Ram Heavy Duty Night packages start with the aforementioned monochromatic Sport appearance package. That includes things like body-colored wheel flares, for example. From there, black lighting bezels, black-bezel headlamps, body-color-painted bumpers, and a black grill surround bring the Night imagery to life.

Other elements exclusive to the Night package include a black grille surround with black billet inserts, flat black Ram 2500 or 3500 Heavy Duty door badge, and flat black powertrain door badging. The Night package includes 20×8-inch black-painted aluminum wheels and LT285/60R20E white letter on/off road tires.

Black rectangular running boards also are available.

Night package Ram HD trucks are finished inside with heated cloth vinyl bucket seats with 10-way power adjustment, power-adjustable pedals, and automatic temperature control with dual-zone climate control.

Ram Heavy Duty Night package interior. Photo: FCA US LLC.

Power & Performance

Ram Heavy Duty trucks are big hitters here, delivering 31,210 lbs. of towing capability through their 6.7-liter Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel. The engine produces 385 horsepower and 900 lb-ft. of torque. Those looking for a gas HD truck may find value in the fact Ram has the largest displacement V-8 in the segment. The 6.4-liter HEMI has 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft. of torque.

Currently, Ram 2500 holds the ¾-ton gas-powered towing title with 16,320 pounds of capacity.

Ram trucks also come in handy right about the time snow starts piling up. Ram Heavy Duty trucks offer the segment’s highest plow ratings, and after watching this video, it makes sense. The plowing performance of a Ram is unmatched and would be an ideal choice to clear large areas, like a parking lot, during harsh winters.

“The Ram Brand understands that it’s important to meet the demands and deliver outstanding, durable products to every type of truck buyer,” Manley said.

Pricing & Availability

The Night package is available on Ram 2500 and 3500 (single rear wheel models only) in Crew Cab configurations, 4×2 or 4×4, and any available powertrain combination. Ram 2500 and 3500 HD Night models come in Bright Silver Metallic, Bright White, Brilliant Black Crystal, Delmonico Red Pearl, and Granite Crystal Metallic.

Production of the 2017 Ram HD Night models began in early February. Ram Heavy Duty Night pricing starts at $45,520 plus $1,320 destination.

Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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