2020 Hyundai Venue First Look

Just when the Kona thought it had the small end of Hyundai’s SUV lineup all to itself in comes its just born little sibling;  the all-new 2020 Venue.

This entry-level utility vehicle gives Hyundai a total of 7 from which to choose and the Venue will be the most affordable when it arrives at dealerships this fall.  Hyundai says this one is “for those constantly on-the-go”, accommodating busy lifestyles in a fast-paced urban environment.

Knowing fuel economy is an important consideration for customers in this segment, the 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine is estimated to deliver up to 33mpg in combined driving mated to either Hyundai’s excellent CVT or even a 6-speed manual – both driving the front wheels.  No all-wheel drive option here.

Providing interior volume not too dissimilar from the Kona, the cabin has been designed for “adequate space for the versatile urban commuter, making it an ideal alternative to a subcompact car, according to Hyundai.

And because it’s Hyundai you know they won’t skimp on “stuff” and indeed a suite of advanced safety features, connectivity and multimedia systems are offered.

Tagged with: , , , , , , , , , ,

2019 Volkswagen Arteon First Look

VW pulled the wraps off of this one over 2 years ago which is why it already feels somewhat familiar, despite the fact that it’s just gone on sale here in the U.S. Following the tradition of difficult to pronounce names, this is the all-new 2019 Arteon.
With competitors such as the Acura TLX, Infiniti Q50, Kia Stinger and Nissan Maxima in its sites, the 2019 VW Arteon is an amalgam of gotta have it styling and capable dynamics.

Tagged with: , , , , , , ,

2020 Hyundai Sonata First Look

When Hyundai redesigned the Sonata for the 2015 model year it decided to rein in the styling. Turns out that was a bad move as the very element that catapulted the car to huge sales success was no longer present. Learning from that mistake, the all-new 2020 Sonata is letting it all hang out.

Tagged with: , , , , , , , , , ,

2020 Lincoln Corsair First Look

While their Detroit rival struggles to reinvent itself, Lincoln’s arrow is clearly pointing up. Their expanding repertoire of SUVs is arriving at just the right time, including the compact utility formerly known as the MKC, the all-new 2020 Corsair.

Tagged with: , , , , , , , ,

2020 FORD SUPER DUTY FIRST LOOK

2020 FORD SUPER DUTY FIRST LOOK BY AUTO CRITIC STEVE HAMMES. Serious work trucks are judged on 2 main criteria; towing and payload.

So Ford is ratcheting up both in their all-new 2020 Super Duty.  Shipping to dealers this fall, the Super Duty lineup which includes the F-250, F-350 and F-450 is powered by a 6.2-liter gas V8 as standard or customers can upgrade to the next generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V8 making more horsepower and torque or opt for a new entry; a 7.3-liter gas V8. 

Though numbers have not been released, Ford says they expect the 7.3 to be the most powerful gas V8 in its class.  All 3 engines will use a new Ford-developed 10-speed automatic transmission designed for the harshest towing conditions. 

Without citing specifics, Ford says this Super Duty offers its highest-ever conventional, gooseneck and fifth-wheel towing and payload ratings.  Optimized cooling across the range is courtesy of a new front-end design that also enhances the performance of the LED headlamps. 

Ford says the improved front bumper also makes using the utility hooks easier.  The cabin has been completely refreshed, crafted with the use of even more luxurious materials on the Limited model and modern touches such as wireless charging, Wi-Fi, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist add technology, connectivity and convenience. 

Though pricing has yet to be released, the current Super Duty lineup starts at under $35,000 while an F-450 Limited can cross $90,000.

Tagged with: , , , , , , , , , , ,
MENU