2017 Hyundai Veloster

2017 Hyundai Veloster
 Three Doors…And Good To Go!

By Charles Donaldson

Two-doors, three-doors, four-doors, five-doors; who’s counting? Hyundai is and their magic number is three when it comes to the 2017 Veloster and three is the perfect number! If the Veloster came in two-doors you would probably end up paying more for car insurance as two-door vehicles are considered sport cars. If it was equipped with four-doors, well, you would be driving a sedan. Let’s face it, with a name like Veloster it better lean more towards the sporty side than the practical direction.

The Veloster entered the market in 2011 to replace the aging Hyundai Tiburon. With its quirkiness of having three-doors adding to its unique appeal, the Veloster has created a category with no direct competitors. The underpinnings are provided by the last-generation Elantra. The styling is part hatchback and part coupe. The only changes for 2017 are the addition of HD Radio and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

The 2017 Hyundai Veloster comes in the following configurations: Base ($18,100), Value Edition ($21,350), Turbo R-Spec ($21,600), and Turbo ($22,600). The three-door styling is distinctive with a door on the driver’s side and two “full-size” doors on the passenger side. Saturn used to offer a third-door but it was very small. The Veloster’s rear passenger door allows for easy entries and exits.

The styling of the 2017 Veloster screams “let’s have fun.” It’s lower stance and height, sharply angled roof line, hard and soft body strokes, and rear wheels pushed as far back as possible create the image of a bottle rocket lit and ready to fly. Add in the panoramic sunroof (part of the Tech package for Turbo – a $2700 package) and the Veloster looks pronounced from the outside and inside.

The interior of the Veloster has received mixed reviews. The front seats are comfortable yet, for me, personally, the lumbar support was a little too-inflated and I couldn’t find a way to tone it down. The back seats have nice legroom, but the sloping roof steals away some desired headroom. Yes, we pay for a sporty design!

The rear seats hold two people separated by cup holders and a minor pocket for unsecured storage.  The front dash has two 12v plugs but only one USB port. The Tech package for Turbo includes a 110 outlet.  The center of the dash lays out the vents and controls in a “V” shape accentuating the Veloster name.

The Veloster engines are shared with the Hyundai Accent and range in horsepower from 138 HP to 201 HP on the turbo version. Now the zippy look has the horses to back up the sporty flare. All models come standard with a six-speed manual Transmission or a 6-speed EcoShift® Dual Clutch transmission, except the Turbo R-Spec which is manual only. The Turbo is also available with a 7-speed EcoShift® Dual Clutch transmission for an extra $1,200.

Cool Features:

·         Three-door design

·         Panoramic sunroof

·         110-volt power inverter plug (requires the Tech package for Turbo)

The 2017 Hyundai Veloster comes well-equipped with safety features including the following: Vehicle Stability Management System, Electronic Stability Control, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, driver and front passenger side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags, rearview camera, driver’s blind spot mirror.

In Summary – The 2017 Hyundai Veloster is a fun-to-drive little sports car, especially when equipped with the turbo engine. The styling is amusing and clever as well as sporty. The rear seats fit adults, but might be considered more child-appropriate. The turbo 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine delivers the power while the unique sport-tuned steering and suspension completes the aggressive package. If you are looking for a vehicle that doesn’t conform with norm, then jump into the 2017 Veloster and experience an entertaining ride!

Specifications

2017 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

Base price:                  $22,600 as driven: $26,260 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                         1.6-liter 4-Cylinder Turbo

Horsepower:                 201 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:                         195 lb.-ft. @ 1750 ~ 4500 rpm

Transmission:               6-speed manual

Drive:                             Front-Wheel Drive

Seating:                         4-passenger
Turning radius:             34.12 feet

Cargo space:                15.5 cubic feet

Curb weight:                2,877 pounds  

Fuel capacity:               13.2 gallons

EPA mileage:                City 25/Hwy 33/Comb 28 MPG

Wheel Base:                104.3 inches

Warranty:                     10 years/100,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:              Fiat 500 Abarth, Mini Hardtop, Nissan Juke, Volkswagen Golf

2017 Kia Sorento

2017 Kia Sorento
 Camping Wars – SUV/Crossover

By Charles Donaldson

With summer upon us, I have found that one of the primary questions around the water cooler is “What are you and your family going to do this summer?” This year, the trophied response was “camping,” followed by my co-water-cooler friends asking me “What type of vehicle works best for camping?”


This question gave me the inspiration for this article, which will be the first of three that will highlight the pros and cons of three vehicle categories along with my personal camping experiences of each. That said, what are our choices outside of renting an RV?


The three most common vehicles, are an SUV (Crossover), a Minivan, and a Truck, where the first two choices offer the security of an enclosed area for your stuff. The pickup’s attributes include a large bed for your outdoor wilderness provisions and perhaps, more off-road capabilities.


I enjoy and began the sport of camping several years ago, thanks to “the bug” that I caught from an old girlfriend’s family. They would pack up the tents, coolers, hot dogs and family to recreate their home in the woods for two weeks every year. After joining them for a couple of days, I found that I was hooked and started buying supplies.


In the beginning, there was enough room in my 1966 Mustang for camping gear for two people. Now, however, with the addition of kids and equipment, I need a canyon of cargo space. When my daughter, Cayla, and I started a tradition of camping adventures, my cabinets began multiplying with the essentials needed. The space grew from one half cabinet to two large ones.


A request went out into the universe, and the 2017 Kia Sorento SXL AWD Crossover was delivered. At first glance, I was happy to see that the Kia came with AWD in case a dusty trail crossed our path. The 2017 Sorento comes in four trim levels: L, LX, EX, SX, and SXL and range in price starting at $25,400 to $45,700. All except the L is available in both FWD and AWD.


There are three engine choices that vary on the trim level. They include: 2.4-liter I-4 with 185 hp/178 lb. ft. torque, and a 6-speed automatic transmission, 2.0-liter turbo I-4 with 240 hp, and 260 lb. ft. torque and a 6-speed automatic, and a 3.3-liter V6 with 290 hp and 252 lb. ft. torque, and 6-speed automatic.


Some new features of the 2017 Sorento include and again are based on trim level: Telematics Audio with head unit Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, Advanced Technology Package, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Paddle shifters, and Dynamic Bending Headlamps.


The styling on the Sorento is both sophisticated and attractive. The lines are modern and clean with just enough contour to create the presence of an elegant and bold silhouette. From the front, the signature Kia grille is met with a bank of quad running lights below the headlights to help illuminate your way. My trim, the SXL, embodied a full-length sunroof that furnished a panoramic view of the sky. The roof line flowed downward into the tailgate.


The interior was comfortable with plenty of amenities and legroom. The wood trim touches created an upscale feel and the entire vehicle felt solid. The dash was a mixture of soft touch points and a 7-in LCD display panel. Our model included, front ventilated and heated 10-way power seats trimmed in Nappa leather. The two rapid USB charging ports kept our phones fully charged while out exploring. In the back, there’s a third row of seats for two extra passengers.


The cargo area allowed: a tent, three large plastic totes, a medium size cooler, fishing poles, three folding chairs, two medium-sized bags of clothes, a box of wood and other supplies. The backseat alongside of my 9-year old son, Chase, embraced three sleeping bags, three pillows, small cooler and a bag of sheets and blankets. At the back of the center console was a 110-volt power inverter plug which worked perfectly for Chase’s portable DVD player.


Cool Features:

·         Panoramic Sunroof

·         Standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can access popular smartphone features including: maps, text messages and music

·         110-volt power inverter plug

The 2017 Kia Sorento comes well-equipped with safety features including the following: Vehicle Stability Management System, Electronic Stability Control, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Hillstart Assist Control, driver and front passenger advanced airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side-curtain airbags with rollover sensors, rearview camera, driver’s blind spot mirror. Some of these items are optional safety features for purchase.


In Summary – The 2017 Kia Sorento is a wonderful representative for the SUV/Crossover class. It delivered plenty of power without sputtering over hills with its 3.3-liter V6 motor. We loaded the Sorento up with our camping gear and our vehicle took it without hesitation. I must admit that it would have been difficult but not impossible, to create room for one more person due to my efforts to be overly-prepared and overly-stocked.


We never did feel uncomfortable in the 2017 Sorento, and in fact, we left and returned in a very relaxed state. The verdict – an SUV/Crossover definitely wins over my 1966 Ford Mustang and all sedans as well. Having the enclosed space for our stuff adds a level  of security while traveling. Properly organizing and packing your supplies optimizes the amount of people and cargo you can transport. The raised height of an SUV/Crossover improves visibility when driving, and…
Stay tuned for the 4-11 on how an SUV/Crossover compares against a Minivan and Pickup!

Specifications

2017 Kia Sorento SXL AWD

Base price:                  $45,700 as driven: $46,595 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                         3.3-liter V6

Horsepower:                 290 hp

Torque:                         252 lb.-ft.

Transmission:               6-speed automatic

Drive:                             AWD-Wheel Drive

Seating:                         7-passenger
Turning radius:             18.6 feet

Cargo space:                154.2 cubic feet

Curb weight:                4,211 pounds  

EPA mileage:                City 17/Hwy 23/Comb 19 MPG

Wheel Base:                109.4 inches

Warranty:                     10 years/100,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:              GMC Acadia, Honda Pilot, Jeep Cherokee, Mitsubishi Outlander

2017 Hyundai Ioniq

2017 Hyundai Ioniq
 Electrifying!

By Charles Donaldson

“Going Green” is on everyone’s lips these days.  Choosing to live environmentally conscious, is well…responsible. Sound decisions can help protect our environment for generations to come. This eco decision-making follows some adults into their car purchasing habits as they purchase cars for the future:  hybrids or all-electric vehicles.


For 2017, Hyundai introduces the Ioniq:  hybrid, plug-in hybrid or an all-electric vehicle. Hyundai claims “dibs” as the first manufacturer to add a battery-electric model that does not have an engine. The 2017 Ioniq Hybrid made its debut in Blue, SEL, and Limited trim levels, while the Electric and Plug-in Hybrid versions offer Base and Limited trims. My test vehicle was the all-electric version so this review will focus on this particular model.


The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq is a small hatchback that is all about the green. With at least a 12-hour 110-volt charge you will get a range of approximately 110 to 125 miles. It can be an easy drive for routine commuting or trips in town.


 We took a trip up to Calistoga which was about 88 miles from door step to hotel step and were fortunate enough to get an extra charge on the way to Raymond Vineyards. They have great wines, but don’t drink and drive (just saying)! An issue occurred, however, when the hotel was not able to allow us to plug-in and recharge overnight it forced us the next day to go in search of a plug-in station. No, I did not plan this trip out very well, and it does highlight the need for proper planning when driving an all-electric vehicle.


In designing the exterior appearance of Ioniq, Hyundai designers concentrated on its future-motivated character and the appeal to make a Hybrid look like a hybrid that isn’t, you know…something Fun and Sporty. The fluid exterior lines help emphasize its aerodynamic body lines and surface volumes. The sporty hatchback-inspired profile is motivated by aerodynamics and creates that energetic feel. These attributes come together to boost aerodynamics further, which, when combined with various other smart efficiency solutions, produce an industry-leading 0.24 coefficient of drag.


The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq will seat five, but only two adults comfortably fit in the back. The interior is clean, comfortable and is standard with cloth upholstery and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power driver's seat with lumbar support and memory settings are also available. There is an array of storage pockets in the front and Hyundai claims that the Ioniq delivers more trunk space than its competitors. The Ioniq's front seats are adjustable, and there is plenty of space for adults of average height. However, those with dancer’s or longer legs may be cramped in the back seats. Additionally, the seating fabric is pedestrian, and the seats themselves could use more thigh support.


Cool Features:

·         Mobile Device Wireless Charging pocket

·         Standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allows you to access popular smartphone features including: maps, text messages and music

·         You can get a tax credit because of its environmental impact

·         According to the E.P.A. the Electric vehicle is the most efficient car you can buy in the United States

The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq comes to you packed with safety features including the following: Vehicle Stability Management System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System,4-wheel, 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist, Hillstart Assist Control, driver and front passenger advanced airbags, driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side-curtain airbags with rollover sensors, driver's knee airbag, rearview camera, driver’s blind spot mirror. Optional safety features are available as well.


In Summary – The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq brings the environmentally-friendly and ecologically-responsible together with the sport and style of a handsome hatchback. In mapping out your trips, you will find that the Ioniq will take you further than to the mall.  With a range of approximately 125 miles, the Ioniq would be a great commuter vehicle.   I would also recommend having a 220-volt outlet installed for faster charging times. So, if you are searching for an eco-enjoyable and “to the nines” dressed vehicle, then the Ioniq should be on your list. It will pleasantly surprise you!

Specifications

2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric

Base price:                  $32,500 as driven: $36,885 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                         88 kW Electric Motor

Horsepower:                 118 Horsepower Equivalent

Torque:                         215 lb.-ft.

Transmission:               Single-speed Reduction Gear

Drive:                             Front-Wheel Drive

Seating:                         5-passenger

Cargo space:                 23 cubic feet

Curb weight:                3,164 pounds  

EPA mileage:                City 150/Hwy 122/Comb 136 MPGe

Wheel Base:                106.3 inches

Warranty:                     10 years/100,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:              Chevrolet Bolt EV, Nissan LEAF, Toyota Prius, Volkswagen e-Golf

2017 Mazda6

2017 Mazda6
 The Sporty Family Sedan!

By Charles Donaldson

The battle of the mid-size car has grown not only in participants, but also in its threads of complexity. As time has flown by, the physical size of the mid-size vehicles gained in inches, and technology of the elite is now embedded common elements. Their ride and performance match the sporty elegance styled into flowing metal, chrome and plastics. The mid-size sedans are not your grandparents’ boring vehicle, but are now found in the driveways of all generations – even your grandparents’! The 2017 Mazda6 is a proud member of this elite club and remains one of the best family sedan choices.


The 2017 Mazda6 is available in, not one, not two, but three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. Prices start at MSRP $22,780 and work its way to $31,530. The Mazda6 experienced its last major styling change in 2013, and has stayed about the same, including the 2017 model. Fitted with muscular front fenders, an arched coupe-like roofline and a flashy rear end, the lines are beautiful and clearly parade the Mazda design flare.


To make your power options an easy choice, all the trim levels come with the same 4-cylinder SKYACTIV gas engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The power generator is a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder with 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Not the highest HP’s however weighing in at just around 3,200 pounds, it’s clearly enough to enjoy the ride. With the automatic transmission, you’ll enjoy EPA scores of 26/38/31 mpg (city/highway/combined).


I was impressed with the interior space and trunk room in the Mazda6. The folding rear seats add to the convenience and flexibility of its use. The seats in my Grand Touring model looked amazing in white with dark gray trim beads and were very comfortable all the way around. Like with most sedans they claim to seat 5 but 4 adults are definitely more comfortable.  To share with you some cool “optional” features, enjoy: rear heated seats, paddle shifters, heads up display, driving “Sport” mode, and multiple electronic connections.


Cool Features:

·         Rain Sensing Wipers

·         Lane Departure Warning System

·         Heads Up Display

The 2017 Mazda is well-equipped with safety features including (some are available as standard, optional, or not available on certain trims): dual front advanced airbags, driver and front-passage side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, ABS brakes with Brake Assist System, Electronic Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist Control, rear camera, driver’s blind spot mirror, blind spot monitoring system, Cross Traffic Alert, and more. Other optional safety features include:  Smart Brake Support with Collision Warning system, Lane Departure Warning System, and Lane Keep Assist System on the Grand Touring trim.


In Summary – The 2017 Mazda6 knows how to combine the practical family sedan without making you feel you are driving a boring one. The Mazda6 delivers a fun-to-drive experience while looking sharp and sporty. It’s loaded with fun and useful tech features and drives with confidence. If you are looking for a stylish mid-size family sedan then check out the Mazda6.

Specifications

2017 Mazda Mazda6 Grand Touring

Base price:                  $30,695 as driven: $34,530 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                         2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine

Horsepower:                 184hp @ 5700 RPM

Torque:                         185 @ 3250 RPM

Transmission:               6-Speed automatic

Drive:                             Front-Wheel Drive

Seating:                         5-passenger

Turning circle:              36.7 feet

Cargo space:                 14.8 cubic feet

Curb weight:                3,305 pounds

Fuel capacity:               16.4 gallons      

EPA mileage:                City 27/Hwy 35

Wheel Base:                111.4inches

Warranty:                     3 years/36,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:              Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima,
                                       Toyota Camry

2017 Hyundai Elantra

2017 Hyundai Elantra
 Sporty & fun!

By Charles Donaldson

How the times are changing. We have seen the progression in design, quality and performance improve over the years for many Asian automotive manufacturers from Japan to Korea. One of the lines that has taken the largest leap, especially in the past 10-years has been Hyundai…namely the Hyundai Elantra.


The Elantra, now in its 6^th generation, first entered the market in October of 1990. It was a simple car that lacked in quality, styling and performance and it stayed that way for the next 3 generations, until the magical 5^th rendition in 2010. Swooping lines began flowing across the apex points forming a very dynamic and aggressive profile. Then, in 2015, Hyundai engineers and designers launched a more mature version that softened the angles.


The 2017 Elantra sedan is a total redesign and is available in five trim levels: SE ($17,150) Eco ($20,650), Sport ($21,650) and Limited ($22,370). Most of the 2017 Elantras come with a new 2.0-liter 1-4 with 147hp (26 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway) and 132 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The Eco model is powered by a 1.4-liter turbo 4-cylinder (28 mpg City and 37 mpg Highway) with 128hp and 156 lb.-ft. of torque and is paired to a 7-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission.


The Elantra Sport is the newest trim in the lineup and was my test model. It was blast to drive. It was designed to target the Honda Civic Si and Volkswagen Jetta GLI. The Sport is powered by a 1.6-liter turbo 4 rated around 200hp and 190 lb.-ft. mated to either a 6- speed manual (22/30 mpg) or a 7-speed twin-clutch automatic (26/33 mpg). To add to the fun, the Elantra Sport sits on a performance-oriented suspension.


 As noted above, the new styling for 2017 appears more conservative than the swooping lines of the exiting model. It is better, well that depends on what you are looking for, however, the 2016, with its curvy attitude might be considered more exciting and sporty. With that said, the 2017 overall appearance is very nice.  The changes are apparent starting with the new large grille.


The interior is comfortable and spacious with subtle sporty-trim touches inside - especially on the Sport trim. The seats were comfortable with the back suited for more for 2 or 3 passengers.
An amazing option for this price group is front and rear heated seats. The infotainment system is controlled through the touchscreen and large clear buttons are available to operate the audio functions including knobs for volume and tuning. Climate controls are laid out smartly displaying temperature and other custom settings on the dual-zone system.


Steering and handling have both improved over last year’s model with a new rear suspension design, but, are not as engaging as the Honda Civic and Mazda 3.


Cool Features:

·         Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

·         Segment First Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection

·         Front and rear heated seats

The 2017 Hyundai Elantra is well-equipped with safety features including: dual front advanced airbags, driver and front-passage side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, driver’s knee airbag, ABS brakes with Brake Assist System, Electronic Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist Control, rear camera, drivers blind spot mirror, blind spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert and lane change assist (avail. on some models), and more. Optional safety features are Forward Collision Warning system, Lane Departure Warning system, and Smart Cruise Control on the Limited trim.


In Summary – The 2017 Hyundai Elantra is a fun vehicle to drive. In Hyundai’s typical style, you’ll find many technology features that you would expect from a more expensive model. This, plus Hyundai’s 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and assistance programs make the Elantra an excellent value.

Specifications

2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport

Base price:                  $21,650 as driven: $25,010 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                         1.6-liter Turbo GDI 4-cylinder engine

Horsepower:                 201hp @ 6000 RPM and 43hp

Torque:                         195 @ 1500 RPM

Transmission:               6-Speed manual

Drive:                             Front-wheel Drive

Seating:                         4-passenger

Turning circle:              17.4 feet

Cargo space:                 14.4 cubic feet

Curb weight:                3,042 pounds

Fuel capacity:               14 gallons         

EPA mileage:                City 22/Hwy 30

Wheel Base:                106.3 inches

Warranty:                     10 years/100,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta

2017 Kia Niro

2017 Kia Niro
 Crossover Value!

By Charles Donaldson

It seems that every automotive manufacturer is unveiling a new Crossover in their lineup, with Jaguar recently joining them. Where it used to be the goal of having one crossover in your stable, now to be in the show, you must have one in every size category. Even the junior mint sizes need to be fully equipped with all of the latest gadgets. One of the new entries in the subcompact field is the stunning, all-new, 2017 Kia Niro.


The Kia Niro began hitting the dealerships in early 2017 and is available in five trim levels – FE, LX, EX, Touring, and a limited production Launch Edition.


The Niro FE, has a starting MSRP of $22,890 and 50-MPG (combined), and is equipped with an extensive list of standard features, including: 16-inch wheels, 6-way front seats, power windows, keyless entry, cruise control, 7-inch touchscreen display with rearview camera, UVO3 with Apple CarPlayTM3, Android AutoTM4 and a six-speaker audio system with steering-wheel-mounted controls.


Next up is the $23,200 LX trim, which adds Smart Key with push button start, roof rails and LED rear combination lamps.  Among the extras added to EX $25,700: heated combination cloth and leather seating, leather-wrapped steering wheel, LED daytime running lights, heated power folding mirrors, front fog lamps, and Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Lane Change Assist (LCA) and driver assistance features.


The Launch Edition is available in Snow White Pearl or Aurora Black Pearl exterior colors. Drivers are offered an exclusive look via the unique Hyper Gray 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin tires, unique metallic color grille, 10-way driver’s seat, 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, 8-speaker Harman Kardon®6 premium audio - all for $28,000.


Touring trim $29,650 is equipped with an amazing array of additional features – power tilt/slide sunroof, front and rear park assist, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, 10-way power driver’s seat with memory and 8-speaker Harman Kardon® premium audio.


The Niro is a front-wheel drive crossover that provides 6.3 inches of ground clearance. Its SUV styling cues are in full force including simulated front and rear skid plates and gray plastic lower body and wheel arch trim. Thanks to the increased ground clearance, the driver and passenger do experience an elevated seating height – one of the trademarks of an SUV/Crossover.


The 2017 Niro is dressed with the sporty Kia grille and headlights that look like raised eyebrows. The outline of the body projects a shadow of a boxed figure with smoothed sporty edges.
One of the best features of the Niro in this time of rising gas prices and threats of a new 50-cent gas tax, is the combined 50 miles per gallon. The Niro was engineered from the ground up as a hybrid as it delivers the mpg’s, and creates that green statement buzz.


The Niro combines an Atkinson-cycle, direct-injected 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor and lithium-polymer battery pack that generates 139 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. It might not sound like much, however, that’s what it takes to get 50+ mpg. Honestly, it still had good get-up-and-go. The Niro bypasses the usual CVT in favor of a 6-speed dual clutch transmission with a Sport-Drive mode.


The interior was comfortable in its two-tone trim. Like most Kias, it was loaded with high-tech features including: push button start, front heated and cooled seats, navigation with an 8-inch screen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smart phone integration, SiriusXM satellite radio and more. The stitching and trim around the air vents are colored in blue indicating a hybrid. The cargo space ranges from 19.4 cu-ft. to 54.5 cu-ft. with the second seats down.


Cool Features:

·         Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

·         Push-button start

·         Front heated and cooled seats

The 2017 Kia Niro is well-equipped with safety features including: dual front advanced airbags, dual front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, driver’s knee airbag, rollover sensor, ABS brakes with Brake Assist System, Electronic Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist Control, rear camera, blind spot detection and lane change assist available on EX-and-up trims, and more. Optional safety features are Forward Collision Warning system, Lane Departure Warning system, Smart Cruise Control, and Front and Rear Park Assist system.


In Summary – The 2017 Kia Niro is a fun little crossover that is only missing an AWD version. It is equipped with plenty of room, a fair amount of power, and solid steering and handling. The style is young, and cute with a touch of sophistication. Standard features and optional features mimic those on more upscale vehicles. Kia has introduced a test-worthy little crossover offering that’s worthy of your time.

Specifications

2017 Kia Niro Touring

Base price:                  $29,650 as driven: $30,545 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                        1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor

Horsepower:               104hp @ 5,700 RPM and 43hp

Torque:                       109 @ 2,200 RPM

Transmission:             6-Speed automatic

Drive:                          Front-wheel Drive

Seating:                       5-passenger

Turning circle:            17.4 feet

Cargo space:               19.4 cubic feet

Curb weight:               3,106 pounds

Fuel capacity:              11.9 gallons      

EPA mileage:              City 51/Hwy 46

Wheel Base:                106.3 inches

Warranty:                    10 years/100,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Fiat 500X, Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, Nissan Juke, Toyota C-HR

2017 Volvo S90

2017 Volvo S90
 A Lesson in Elegance!

By Charles Donaldson

Around 25 years ago, my parents gave me their old Volvo 240. At the time, my daughter Cayla was born and we needed to replace one of our coupes with a 4-door sedan. I can’t say much about the 240’s shape – it was rectangle and boxy, but, it drove well, was considered one of the safest cars in its price range, and was reliable. With a new baby on board, safety was the ticket. Well, the years have passed way too quickly. My daughter is now 27-years old and Volvo today produces vehicles that continue to be the leaders in safety. They are still reliable, and drive well. The biggest difference is that the styling is outstanding and the all-new 2017 Volvo S90 is proof that safe vehicles can also be beautiful!


The 2017 Volvo S90 sedan replaces the outgoing S80 in the Swedish-made product line; however, this isn’t a simple upgrade or minor change with a new name. This is a start-from-scratch, a fully re-engineered effort that delivers what I would consider to be the best Volvo ever. The S90 is the fully-reconceived flagship sedan that is built on a new platform launched last year on the XC90 crossover. It includes a new engine, a beautiful new design concept and virtually not a single carry-over part from its previous model.


Under the permission of its new owners, China’s Geely Holding, Volvo has been allowed to completely rethink and redesign its largest sedan as well as its company’s overall design theme. Instead of chasing after the German sport sedans specification list, Volvo was encouraged to express itself by conceiving an elegant design, spacious and beautifully crafted interior, and a driving and performance experience that is second to none.


The 2017 Volvo S90 is produced in Sweden and available in four configurations: T5 Momentum ($46,950), T5 Inscription ($49,650), T6 AWD Momentum ($52,950), T6 AWD Inscription ($55,450). The T5 models are equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged generating 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The upgraded T6 2.0-liter 4-cylinder adds a belt-driven supercharger to pump more forced air into the turbo stream. This increases the horsepower to 316 and the torque to 295 lb.-ft. My test car was the S90 T6 AWD Inscription and I can tell you it performs like a rocket.


The exterior is carved with the smooth outline of a coupe and elegance is infused into the curves and swoops of its shiny steel skin. The profile boasts bold and luxurious authority as it stands tall on its 19” inch wheels. The T-shaped headlights are themed as Thor’s Hammer and are laid in concert with the classically long Volvo hood, uniquely- shaped side glass and the scalloped grille. Sensors and cameras are place on all four poles creating a 360-degree aerial view when the transmission is requested to backup. I must admit, I have driven other cars that have this 360-degree view option and the Volvos for some reason take the items parallel to it (cars, bushes, etc.) and stretches them with giant height proportions which created an uneasy sensation when backing up.


The interior is truly worth praising. With plenty of room for 4 adult passengers and a smaller rider (in the center of the back seat), all will enjoy the blending of a living room couch, while having form-hugging seats that will keep you in place during the curviest of roads. Beautiful wood trim is decorated throughout the cabin. Every element of the interior is designed as a work-of-art from the shifter to the speaker covers. The 9-inch center screen works in part like a tablet as you swipe from page to page to engage your adjustments. I am a guy who enjoys gadgets, but, I must admit, that the screen replaced most of the typical control buttons, and attempting to drive and swipe at the same time was very distracting. I would prefer to have buttons which I can quickly access for the common functions.


 The T6 trims are engineered with air suspension delivering a comfortable smooth ride or as Volvo coins it “a relaxed confidence.” The suspension loads up evenly and unloads out of a corner with the grace of a ballerina. Passengers will be pleased as there isn’t much bobbing or bouncing over imperfections in the road and the ride is extremely quiet, thanks to its active noise cancellation technology.


Cool Features:

·         Volvo’s Pilot Assist

·         360 Aerial View in Reverse

·         Rear seats temperature control and heated seats

As we know, Volvo is known for being a leader in vehicle safety and the 2017 Volvo S90 is bursting at the seams with safety features. The S90 will be the first automobile with semi-autonomous driving technology standard across the line. The Pilot Assist system blends active cruise control with forward collision warning and lane-keep assist. This system lets the driver remove his or her hands from the steering wheel sporadically, for up to 15 seconds each time. Blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert systems are optional. There is also a Large Animal Detection system that tracks the movement of creatures like moose and deer, warning the driver, as it takes evasive action as necessary.


In Summary – The 2017 Volvo S90 is comparable to German sedans in comfort, performance and safety, but, at a much better price. It’s better-equipped than many luxury sedans and is loaded with technical features. The styling of the S90 hits the mark and creates a new standard for Volvo. The S90 is a beautiful and luxurious vehicle both inside and out.   

Specifications

2017 Volvo S90 T6 AWD Inscription

Base price:                  $52,950 as driven: $66,105 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                        2.0-liter 4-cylinder Super and Turbo charged engine

Horsepower:               316 @ 5,700 RPM

Torque:                       295 @ 2,200 RPM

Transmission:             8-Speed automatic

Drive:                          AWD Drive

Seating:                       5-passenger

Turning circle:            36.7 feet

Cargo space:               13.5 cubic feet

Curb weight:               4222 pounds

Fuel capacity:              15.9 gallons      

EPA mileage:              City 22/Hwy 31

Wheel Base:                115.8 inches

Warranty:                    4 years/50,000-miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Cadillac CT6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E-Class