Steer Me! KIA thrives with their new K5!

 

Coming in five trims, I reviewed the LXS version of this all-new sedan and loved it!

Photos courtesy of KIA

There is no mystery to my enjoyment of sporty sedans, and KIA blew me away when they had debuted the four-door Stinger a few years ago as you see here. Well, the time has come to be wowed again thanks to the launch of the all-new 2021 K5 series. Replacing the already popular Optima, KIA promises this version to be an upgrade in numerous ways with a plethora of modifications in all the right places. Coming in five different trims—LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX and GT—the K5 makes some subtle, yet appreciated physical enhancements resulting in a more welcomely aggressive, stealthy look. It’s about an inch lower, the taillights extend across the entire back of the rear for a wider perception, and the front grille is leaner with lights extended a bit horizontally wrapping around the corners with a sort of thunder-bolt finish sitting on 16-inch wheels.

I received the K5 LXS dressed in a captivating “Everlasting Silver” boasting all-wheel drive, a smart key, remote start, blind-spot collision and a smart trunk as some of its many standouts while maintaining a wallet-friendly $25,455 total. The value is astounding.

As I hoped, the driving experience matched the look. Thanks to a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder engine peaking at 180 horsepower with a complementing 8-speed automatic transmission and multiple drive modes, my driving experience was smooth, responsive and more corner-embracing with the AWD feature for optimal maneuverability. 

Addressing the interior, the layout is high quality with comfortable seating for up to five with the split-folding capability in the rear, while a rear-view camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity come with the 8-inch screen. Along with the aforementioned safety features, the Forward Collision-Avoidance, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and the growingly popular Leading Vehicle Departure Alert certainly boost the driver’s confidence on the road.

I am looking forward to reviewing the other K5 models including the muscle-flexing GT versions in my Driver’s Notebook City Lifestyle columns in the very near future. In the meantime, make the K5 LXS one of your serious considerations in the KIA family of vehicles. Nice job, KIA!

KIA K5 LXS specs:

Fuel Economy: 27 city/37 highway/31 combined

Price: $25,455

For more information, visit Kia.com.

Let’s answer a beer bar employee’s call for help.

 

A super cool homey, server and bartender at Augustine’s Pub named Kia Presley-Meade needs assistance after dealing with a life-threatening injury

Cheers Everyone.

If you frequent a beer bar or any cool eatery for that matter, there are always going to be one or two standout employees who you’ll eventually befriend. Well after going to Augustine’s in Atlanta's Grant Park district—one of my favorite beer bars close to where I live—I noticed that my homey Kia Presley-Meade was not around for a while so I assumed she was on vacation. Well she was indeed on one for a while that unfortunately went a lot longer than she wanted due to a tragic ending.

See, I got this email from Kia stating that she joined up with the website GoFundMe.com to try and get financial assistance for the ridiculous hospital bills she incurred due to a dreadful fall she took while vacationing in St. Thomas. I was truly horrified by its recount of what had happened to someone I considered a friend. The pictures following the incident made the nightmare of a story a reality. Here is what Kia’s page on GoFundMe.com describes:

Dear Friends,

On July 19th, while on vacation in St. Thomas, I experienced a traumatic accident. Getting out of a friend's car I took a step backwards and fell 7.5 ft onto a pile of boulders. I was put on an emergency flight to Miami where I spent ten days in Jackson Memorial Hospital. I suffered two fractures to my skull, fractures to both orbital bones, and brakes to both wrists.

Now that I am home in Atlanta, I am still faced with monumental obstacles. There is a subdural hematoma, a brain bleed, in my right frontal lobe and I have short term memory loss. My continuing care, which includes appointments with specialized neurologists and a neural psychologist and both physical and occupational therapy, will be costly to say the least. As many of you know I am a server and bartender and have been working in the restaurant industry for many years. My injuries make working impossible. Anything you can give to assist in my recovery while I am unable to work would be sincerely and greatly appreciated.
Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity. With your help I will be on the path to full health.

Crazy, right? Well after finding out she was back in town, I asked her what I could do to help. She really liked my idea of posting her unfortunate accident on my site. Well here it is. I completed our meeting at Augustine’s by taking a picture complete with Kia’s two broken arms and well-hidden scars. Afterwards, I saw an update from Kia’s page. Check it:

Much to my delight, yesterday’s doctor appointment went well. Things are healing well and all of my symptoms are where they're supposed to be. I'm making good progress during my first month of recovery. And I got my first major itch inside my cast-WOW! Hope the next three weeks go quickly! Thank you to everyone for their support, prayers, and kindness.
Kia

The one positive outcome out of this story is that although Kia has both arms broken which inhibits her from serving and bartending, Augustine’s created a new gig to keep her an active employee by handling paperwork. That’s pretty awesome of them to do that.

Ultimately, GoFundMe.com is a brilliant way to help those in need. This is a perfect case. If you can support her, that would be super cool. Again, here is her link.

Peace,

Ale

Steer Me! Standouts For 2021!

Check out this 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4XE!

Regardless of a few challenges, 2021 has been an awesome year for automobiles. Let’s continue to spotlight those cars that deserve a little extra shine from various price brackets and styles. Lifestyle writer Andrea Janise is also contributing to this roundup of what’s impressive on the road. See some of these cars and other reviews on my Whips column for TheCut.co.

Photography courtesy of the automakers

2021 Mustang Mach-E First Edition eAWD

Admittedly, a compact electric SUV is not super sexy when mentioned, but a five-passenger Mustang Mach-E surely is. This highly anticipated head turner raises the bar for this car segment and will surely bring conversation wherever its driven; this is especially true with its optimal handling, athletic frame, optional signature Rapid Red Metallic exterior, and 19-inch wheels adorned with black accents and red-painted calipers. Under the hood, there’s impressive power regardless of the Select, California Route 1, Premium and GT trims; specs start at 266 horsepower and 6.1 seconds from 0-60 miles per hour all the way to 480 horsepower and 0-60 at 3.8 seconds in the GT. Battery life also has options from 210 to 305 miles on one full charge. (The reviewed model included an 88-kWh extended-range battery and AWD for optimal handling.)
Note that besides charging stations throughout the US, you can power up the Mach-E with a standard 120-volt outlet, a 240-volt outlet, or an available Ford charging station for the home. Saving money on gas, eliminating emissions, and getting a tax credit up to $7500 while wowing onlookers certainly doesn’t hurt either.

The 2021 Mach-E starts at $42,895 (MSRP); reviewed with eAWD and Extended Battery is $58,300.
For more information, visit Ford.com.

2021 Toyota Prius Prime Limited

The Prius line has been one of the main components of the hybrid/electric car movement, justifying it as the world's bestseller. And with that, every year has showed progression with the brand; this is especially true with the top-of-the-line Prime Limited. With this model, safety evidently comes first with a long list of mind-assuring features coming standard largely due to the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. Standouts include parallel park assist; front and rear parking sensors; rear cross traffic alert; head-up display; and blind spot monitoring to name a few. The engine is a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder topping out at 121 horsepower, but the gas/electric mileage is the true stunner; fully charged and gassed up, it has a mind-blowing driving distance of 640 miles combined.
Sitting on 15-inch alloy wheels and a premium 10-speaker JBL sound system, going the hybrid route and getting 133 MPGe is even more rewarding.

The 2021 Prius Prime Limited MSRP is $34,000.
For more information, visit Toyota.com.

2021 KIA K5 GT

Entering the market in grand fashion, the all-new K5 line has heads turning for numerous reasons. Shelving the Optima sedan, KIA flexes a lot more muscle with this more sleek, muscular and powerful four-door variation. This GT version reviewed comes stacked with a 2.5-liter, turbo 4-cylinder engine topping out at 290 horsepower, an 8-speed dual clutch transmission, and a panoramic sunroof sitting on 19-inch sport alloy wheels. The special GT 1 Package adds 10.25-inch touchscreen, a BOSE premium sound system, LED projection headlights, the signature UVO link and numerous safety features ideal for this kind of car. Looking stunning especially in Sapphire Blue and incredibly value, KIA did a great job with this addition to the family.

The 2021 KIA K5 GT is $35,705 MSRP including the GT 1 package costing $4000
For more information, visit Kia.com.

2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4XE

Jeep carries a legion of loyalists for more than half a century and this top-of-the-line Rubicon got more looks than a supermodel. While maintaining the virtually limitless off-road capability this automaker is renowned for, Jeep gets environmentally responsible with this all-new, highly anticipated 4XE plug-in-hybrid version coming in three trims; it blesses drivers with an impressive, combined city/highway 49 miles per gallon-equivalent performance.
The soft top and doors are removeable after using its custom tool kit for those gorgeous days in the sun, plus a user-friendly infotainment system (Uconnect), spacious “Unlimited” four-door cabin with leather-trimmed seats, push-button start, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot, two additional USB ports, an Alpine premium sound system with satellite radio on an 8.4-inch screen, and a plethora of safety features to name a few standouts. As for the heart, it’s a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (plus two electric motors) with an eight-speed automatic transmission yielding 375 horsepower, 470 pound-feet of torque, and a 370-mile driving range sitting on rugged 17-inch x 7.5-inch black-painted wheels. Already garnering environmental awards left and right, this Jeep is going to kill it in the second half of 2021 and beyond.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4XE starts at $51,695 (MSRP); reviewed with optional features in the Customer Preferred Package, it’s $62,660.
For more information, visit Jeep.com.

2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD PRO

The 4Runner continues to look welcomely more rugged and muscular over time, but maybe consider taking it to the next level going the TRD Pro route.
While all 4Runner trims have the 4.0-liter, V6 engine pumping out 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque to provide ample power for towing up to 5,000 pounds and taking on challenging terrain, the TRD version—Toyota Racing Development—just looks more sinister in a complimentary way. Especially in the new Lunar Rock exterior with 17-inch Pro Flow-Form alloy wheels.
There are more reasons why the TRD PRO is the top-of-the-line version. Perfected for off-roading enthusiasts, accessories include customized front springs, shock absorbers, skid plates, roof rack, and multi-terrain select with low-speed crawl control to name a few. Along with all the safety features coming standard, there is a banging 15-speaker JBL sound system, moonroof, and “TRD” branding throughout the vehicle to remind owners what they are proudly flaunting.

The Toyota 4Runner comes in numerous trims, starting at $36,765 for the SR5 and ending with this reviewed TRD PRO at $50,470 MSRP.
For more information, visit Toyota.com.

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer AWD RS

This all-new SUV provides drivers with both style and durability in this head-turning vehicle. The 2021 version has upgraded its exterior from its previous Chevrolet model so the body is more attractively sculpted. The Trailblazer’s numerous amenities consist of keyless entry and start; 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity; 10-way power seat adjustment with lumbar control; roof rack and side rails for mounting bikes (or any personal outdoor equipment); Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability; wireless charging; and Bose Premium 7-speaker system. The Trailblazer does not disappoint when it comes to safety with the automatic emergency breaking, lane departure warning and forward collision alert coming standard in every vehicle. We also appreciated the combined 28 MPG for short and long trips. This value and style combined make the Trailblazer a great option for those wanting a vehicle that will fit a busy and ever-changing lifestyle.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer AWD RS is $30,580 MSRP as reviewed
For more information, Chevrolet.com.

2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport

If you are looking for safety coupled with reliability and performance, the upgraded Subaru Crosstrek will fit certainly the bill. Consistently providing the dependability we have come to love from the Subaru name, the 2021 Sport model comes standard with the 2.5 liter 4-cylinder Subaru Boxer engine—making it the most powerful of the line—and a new exterior trim element giving it a more rugged look, while maintaining a combined 29 MPG. Standard features include keyless entry with push button start, a 6.5-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration and Bluetooth connectivity, a 6-speaker audio system, dual USB charging ports in both front and rear consoles, roof rails and a power moonroof. The adventurous motorists will appreciate the water-repellant StarTex upholstery beautified by yellow contrast stitching, and durable floormats made from recycled materials.
Regarding safety, the Crosstrek’s advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering, tire pressure monitoring system with individual wheel display, blind spot detection and rear seat reminder will steadily give you peace of mind. Base prices starting as low as $22,245 MSRP, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek combines affordability and appeal for a truly multi-functional and worry-free vehicle.

The Subaru Crosstrek Sport is $26,495 MSRP as reviewed
For more information, Subaru.com.

2021 Buick Envision Essence AWD

There are a good number of redesigned vehicles that hit the market this year, and the Buick Envision is one of the more welcomed alterations in 2021. The standout change is the muscle under hood; the engine is now a four-cylinder turbo version powered by 228 horses, while the ride remains smooth with AWD maneuverability. Justifying its luxury compact SUV designation, standards include 4G LTE WiFi; 18-inch aluminum wheels with a charcoal metallic finish; remote start; handsfree liftgate; dual-zone climate control; a user-friendly infotainment system with a 10-inch touch screen; various drive modes; numerous driver assistance features via the Buick Driver Confidence Plus (lane change alert, departure warning, rear parking assist, front pedestrian braking); plus the beloved OnStar service GM provides. The Technology Package is a highly recommended option thanks to the HD Surround Vision; a Bose nine-speaker premium audio system; wireless charging; wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay; head-up display; and front park assist. Promising reliability and a competitive price tag compared to the Envision’s classmates also ease the mind when considering a long-term buy. Nice job, Buick!

The Buick Envision Essence AWD starts at $37,600 (MSRP); reviewed with optional features in the Technology Package, it’s $41,790.
For more information, visit Buick.com.

Future Shock!

Check out what the future has in store for us in 2022!

2021 Hyundai Veloster N + 2022 Veloster N M/T

Let’s be frank: Hyundai is killing it. One of the reasons for such a successful boom is their aggressive approach to design, quality upgrades and increased power allotment; the 2021 Veloster N is a perfect example coming in both automatic (8-speed Wet Dual Clutch Transmission with paddle shifters) and the 2022 close-ratio 6-speed manual (M/T).
Hyundai is showing racing enthusiasts major love with its N series, named after the research and development center for high-performance automobiles based in Namyang, South Korea, and world-famous test track in Nürburgring, Germany. Racing means muscle, and the Veloster gets an aggressive jolt—a 2.0-liter turbo engine packing 275 horses and 260 lb.-ft. of torque—in both trims. The N Grin Control System provides five driving modes, plus electronic controlled suspension with 5 G-Force sensors, and sport exhaust for extra roar. This series also has its exclusive embellishments to please the eye from the glowing “N” on the racing seats, to the 19-inch alloy wheels with Pirelli tires, two-stage rear spoiler, custom “N” floor mats, glossy black side mirrors, and leather-wrapped steering wheel to help terrorize the roads. Coming with a plethora of standard safety features, high-tech amenities, and generous free maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles (whatever comes first), there is virtually nothing negative to say about the Veloster N and M/T. (See what I did there?)
Look for other models of the Hyundai legion to be presented in the N version soon as well.

The 2021 N is $34,745 (MSRP); The 2022 N M/T is $33,525.
For more information, visit Hyundaiusa.com.

 

 

Here are some head-turning car designs that set the bar in 2018

Here is a page form my latest auto column,
and below includes some more dope automobiles that caught my eye.

Let's Cruise!

As many of you know, I love sharing the cool side of cars and design is a big component of my coverage! In one of my upcoming articles for my Driver's Notebook column for various magazines like the one above plus Instagram, here is what impressed me when I got the chance to check these models out in person. Note that there are more that will be added to this post as the year progresses, so stay tuned!

Driver's Notebook

The automotive industry continues to be extremely competitive, so there have to be inventive ways to stand out from the rest. One of the most effective methods to stand out from the rest is to attract the eye of owners and prospective buyers. Be it makeovers of an existing models or in one case, an all-new trim making its debut this year, here are some of the most stunning exteriors presented in 2018.

2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4x4

The Jeep brand is as American as apple pie and continues to produce dream automobiles for the adventurous, off-roaders—and recently—the fashionably hip. To cover all the bases, the current stylizing of the 2018 Rubicon will please both traditionalists and its burgeoning fan base of Millennials. We were wowed by the Granite Crystal Metallic paint adorned by some must-have, yet affordable packages, including LED lighting ($895); “Street Bumper Group” (1,295); and Black Freedom Top 3-piece Hard Top ($1,095). The 17-inch x 7-inch black wheels take on any terrains with a 3.6-liter V6 engine controlled by a six-speed manual transmission. Ultimately, this model successfully preserves Jeep’s decorated history.

Price: $36,995; $47,665 as reviewed

For more information, visit Jeep.com

 ---------

2018 KIA Stinger GT

The KIA brand has made extraordinary progress from their independent launch into the US market in the early 90s. Revered for their improvement in virtually every specification, they have taken their design and power output to new heights with their head-turning Stinger GT. Peaking at 365 horsepower thanks to its 3.3-liter twin turbo engine under the hood enhanced with “Launch Control,” KIA’s talented design team successfully crafted the Stinger looks to match its brawn. Popularly showcased in an intimidating “Hichroma Red,” the LED lighting package, and Brembo brakes adorning the 19-inch wheels collectively confirm a bright, boundary-pushing future for this Korean powerhouse.

Price reviewed: $38,350 with all options

For more information, visit Kia.com

 ---------

2018 Buick Regal GS

For years, Buick has been regarded as an automaker geared primarily for older generations due to its storied history built around comfort and elegance, but the all-new Regal Buick Regal GS strongly suggests otherwise. This sedan’s sleek body flaunts a “GS Sport” grille accented with a black finish, front air scoops, red Brembo brakes, 19-inch wheels, rear spoiler, and my review model’s “Sport Red” exterior; these features collectively exclaim “Performance!” Thankfully, its V-6 engine is powered by 31o horses controlled with three Interactive Drive settings, and a nine-speed automatic transmission to effectively back up its racing-inspired design. Considering the attractive performance seats enhanced by temperature settings and massage capabilities; sport pedals; the “sportback” for expanded cargo options; and numerous hi-tech components, and you have one of the most exciting cars Buick has ever produced.  

Price: $39,070

For more information, visit buick.com.

 ---------

2018 Lexus RC350 2-Door Coupe

Lexus is world-renowned for its attention to detail inside and out, but when it comes to a reasonably priced coupe with a plethora of amenities, they have outdone themselves with the RC350. Sleek and curvaceous in all the right places, we highly recommended the F-Sport Package ($4,105) including the customary “spindle” grille, 16-spoke wheels, aluminum pedals, and numerous other racing-inspired amenities in the cabin. Complete the head turning with orange caliber brakes; premium triple-beam LED headlights and floodlights, and the glistening “Atomic Silver” paint before igniting the road with 311 horses under the hood.

Price: $43,570; $55,660 as reviewed

For more information, visit Lexus.com

Steer Me! Car Reviews Part 4: Even more impressive automobiles for 2019 plus a sneak peek to 2020!

The 2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR is definitely a standout.

You should get a great deal on these 

to close out the year!

While traveling and exploring cities especially throughout the South with a large group of beer hunters, here are three automobiles to satisfy all the demands including comfort, high-tech accessories, safety, value, saving gas, and great looks to name a few. Keep in mind the 2019 models should have great deals to end the year out, so enjoy the savings!

By Ale Sharpton, Andrea Janise and Lamont Byron

(All photos are courtesy of automakers.)

2019 BMW X4 xDrive301

BMW has had a fantastic year regarding the latest wave of models they have presented in 2019. The 2019 BMW X4 xDrive301 continues the momentum with its plethora of standard features powered by a 2.0-liter TwinPower 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine using an 8-speed automatic transmission with Sport and Manual shift modes; signature xDrive all-wheel drive system; and enhanced smartphone connectivity. Encased in a sleek, yet muscular crossover coupe body which looked gorgeous in BMW’s Dark Graphite Metallic and Tacoma Red Vernasca Leather interior, this is one automobile that will win over both solo drivers and those with family.

For more Information, visit Bmwusa.com.

2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SEL 1.5T S-AWC

Considering the numerous cars Mitsubishi has presented to the world over the years, they have hit a homerun with their 2019 Eclipse Cross SEL 1.5T S-AWC compact-crossover; upon first look, this carmaker demonstrates a more risk-taking approach resulting in a stunning exterior. (The Mitsubishi “Red Diamond” exterior paint comes highly recommended.) Accompanying the eye candy, this model comes with a 1.5-liter direct-injection turbo engine, “super” all-wheel control for easy maneuvering, and a sound interior laced with real leather and an always applaudable heads-up display to help with keeping eyes on the road. Coming with an infotainment touchpad, a generous number of standard features, plus the optional Touring Package featuring a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system, roof rail, and dual-pane power panoramic sunroof, Mitsubishi is surely geared for a remarkable year.

For more information, visit Mitsubishicars.com.

2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR

What, an SUV? Yes! Stunningly designed, the Jaguar F-Pace SVR­—Special Vehicle Racing—is also one of the most exhilarating behind the wheel. It’s 550 horsepower, supercharged 5.0-liter, V-8 heart; all-wheel drive; 10-inch touchscreen; optional 22-inch wheels; and 825-watt Meridian Surround Sound System take things to the next level. The Ultra Blue exterior makes it even more electric.

L.K. Byron adds...

Exterior:

First off, the F-Pace SVR’s exterior styling borders on flawless. The headlights, taillights, grill, and side panel designs deliver an eye-catching sporty feel. The adaptive LED Headlights with auto high beam assist ensure that the road ahead is clear and well luminated for safe nighttime driving. The panoramic sunroof includes a sliding front section to accommodate the driver and passenger while the rear seat passengers can simply enjoy the view. This model’s electric “Ultra Blue,” color and SVR body kit additions will make head turns a regularity when you’re out and about, so don’t be alarmed.

Interior:

The interior is well designed and adequate for everyday needs. Noteworthy inclusions are an interactive driver display, heated and cooled power front performance seats, nifty heated split fold rear seats, ambient interior lighting, 10” touchscreen Touch Pro System w/ navigation, and rear-view camera with a 360- degree parking aid. Another plus is the powerful and crisp 825 watt Meridian Surround Sound System which makes sure your favorite tunes are fully appreciated when played in time of need. The fit and finish is on point along with a smooth to the touch, quilted leather seats. Leg room and comfortability are attributes to the interior as well.

Performance:

The F-Pace is top notch. Surface roads and highways are the perfect canvas for the 550 horsepower 8- cylinder engine to display its talents. Acceleration leaves not much to be desired along with road feel, and handling. Although the tank is a bit thirsty, the overall performance and driving experience manages to make that slight gripe an afterthought. 

For more information, please visit Jaguarusa.com.

2019 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD

Andrea Janise says: 

This CX-9 takes Mazda to the next level in terms of pleasing the most passengers since the automaker’s existence, boasting three rows to seat up to seven adults comfortably. And don’t worry, the sleek looks deceptively hide its capacity complemented with a smooth ride. The top-of-the-line Signature flaunts a long list of features including Auburn Nappa leather seating; LED signature grille accent lighting; and 20-inch alloy wheels to name a few. For more options, the CX-9 also comes in Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims as well. Talking for especially mothers, this is an amazing family car that still keeps your cool points intact with all the great looks the CX-9 possesses.

Please visit Mazdausa.com for more information.

2019 Toyota Camry SE

A bestseller for more than a decade and for good reason: It’s continues to be reliable, mechanically sound, and consistently comes with awesome resale value. For an added edge, its aggressive, sporty design is heavily applauded as one of the most attractive sedans on the market. The 2.5-liter, 4-cyliner engine packs 203 horsepower, while still a never-thirsty combined 32 miles per gallon; “Audio Package” with ENTUNE 3.0 Audio Plus with App Suite; stellar safety ratings; and a price tag under $30K keep the legendary status of the Camry alive. Look for the other trims including a Hybrid SE in mind as well. You won’t lose no matter the style you choose under the Camry umbrella.

Please visit Toyota.com for more information.

2019 Honda Insight Touring

Honda has always been one of the most reliable and consistent brands in the automotive world, and now they flex a little design muscle to coincide with gas conservation by bringing on the all-new Insight hybrid sedan. Complete with a sleek frame, more-than-ample trunk space, and generous amenities thanks to the Touring trim, including Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Integration; power moonroof; 17-inch alloy wheels; LED lighting; Honda Sensing package; and a Sport mode for the 151 horses under the hood. 48 combined city/highway miles per gallon seals the deal.

Please visit Honda.com for more information.

For 2020, here are some models confirming the new year is going to be very promising! Check these out! 

2020 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque SE

Luxurious and rugged, two descriptions that rarely together when describing an automobile, but the Land Rover Range Rover line continues to master the combination. The Range Rover Evoque provides this signature driving experience in a smaller frame compared to its other siblings, but comes with a redesigned exterior, a slightly larger cabin boosting rear legroom, and 2.0 turbocharged four-cylinder engine packing 246 horses steered by all-wheel drive. While the standard model is generous, the optional packages such as the Demo Specification Pack (fixed panoramic roof, keyless entry, 360° surround camera); Drive Pack (adaptive cruise control, high-speed emergency braking); and Interior Luxury Pack boasting 21-inch wheels, theater-esque Meridian Surround Sound System, and a leather upgrade throughout the interior. The All-Terrain Response Control will ensure passengers are pampered while taking on virtually any road condition. It’s the Land Rover way.

For more information, visit Landroverusa.com.

2020 KIA Soul X-Line

KIA has rewarded the legion of fans and soon-to-be loyalists with the third generation of one of their most popular lines, the Soul. Revered for how inexpensive, yet practical, multi-dimensional, and unconventional signature box-shaped exterior they made a trend, the X-Line edition has stepped it up even more. Let’s welcome in the 18-inch alloy wheels; added safety features (rear-cross traffic collision warning, blind spot warning, and lane-change assist); roof rails; user-friendly interface connecting both smartphone applications; impressive cargo space; and body cladding for a more rugged look, while protecting the exterior. With a combined 30 miles per gallon, industry-leading warranty package, and starting price of $21,620, we definitely have something to look forward to in 2020.   

For more information, visit Kia.com.

2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland 4x4

With the newest luxury SUVs, stocked sports vehicles, and sleek sedans doing their best to be eye candy, the 2020 Jeep Gladiator has turned the same amount of heads—if not more. While the 2020 Gladiator Overland 4x4 maintains the boxy, rugged Wrangler frame, it’s the exclusive convertible capability, and what brings it to the next level—a 5-foot cargo bed stocked with a 115-volt AC outlet. The Premium Audio Group (8.4-inch display, Alpine audio system, GPS); Trailer Tow Package (boasting a class-leading 7,650-pound towing capability); and Jeep Active Safety Group (rear park-assist, blind-spot detection, forward collision warning) packages are strongly suggested to complete the Jeep experience.

For more information, visit Jeep.com.