2019 Hyundai Kona Ultimate AWD Driving Impressions
The 2019 Hyundai Kona continues the brand's notable value proposition by offering buyers competitive fuel economy, a class-above interior, an intuitive infotainment system and, for 2019, a range of advanced safety features that are standard on all trim levels. But it remains hampered by busy styling touches, a standard engine that offers only modest acceleration, and an interior that's on the small side for the segment.
Continue Reading »
2018 Kia Stinger GT2 Driving Impressions
An all-new model from the Korean brand this year, the 2018 Kia Stinger comes to market with a slick, bold design, while offering a powerful and practical alternative to European competitors at a bargain price. But its mission as a smooth riding grand tourer means track performance is only middling, while it lacks both a manual transmission and the brand cachet of its German rivals.
Continue Reading »
2018 Lexus LX 570 Driving Impressions
The 2018 Lexus LX 570 features off-road capable body-on-frame construction, big V8 power, plenty of towing capability, and a leather and wood-trimmed cabin worthy of a luxury yacht. At the same time, body lean in cornering is abundant, third row occupants should be limited to small people, gas mileage is horrible, while most owners will never need - or use - its off-road capabilities.
Continue Reading »
2018 Hyundai Kona SEL AWD Driving Impressions
The 2018 Hyundai Kona cruises onto the stage in a class already awash with solid entries from Subaru, Honda, Mazda, and Nissan, along with nearly every other automaker on the planet. What the Kona brings to the party is a solid value proposition, smooth ride, and a durable, practical interior. But it's also hampered by fussy exterior touches, a finicky optional dual-clutch transmission, leisurely acceleration, and limited availability of advanced safety features.
Continue Reading »