It’s been three years since Volkswagen introduced the ID.4, its first long-range all-electric model to reach U.S. showrooms. Since then, it has rolled out a number of variants, including the latest, the all-wheel-drive Pro S Plus. While not the fastest EV in its class, it is quicker than earlier ID.4 packages and has a number of other pluses that could broaden the EV’s appeal. Find out more in our review at Headlight.News.
Technology
The Past Lane: A Mid-Century Modern Small Car
In an era when Detroit’s Big Three wanted to do nothing but build ever larger cars, Nash Motors had a different idea, on ethat would prove that not everyone thought bigger was better. Read the story at Headlight.News.
VW Bringing Electric Performance Cupra Brand to U.S.
It’s already announced plans to bring the long-dormant Scout brand back to life. Now, Volkswagen will introduce its European-based Cupra, to the U.S. market, the performance division’s CEO says. It will debut later this decade with two all-electric utility vehicles.
Harsh! Consumer Reports Trashes New Fisker Ocean as “Inexcusable”
“Incomplete” and “Inexcusable.” Things haven’t been going well for Fisker Inc., the EV start-up that has begun taking steps that could lead to a bankruptcy filing in the coming weeks. Fisker has also announced it is halting production for six weeks. It’s unclear if the company will use that pause to address some of the issues with its first product line, the Fisker Ocean. Based on a new review by Consumer Reports, the list is a long one.
Kia K4 Set to Debut at NY Auto Show as Forte Replacement
Kia has an all-new compact sedan coming and it will make it’s debut at the New York International Auto Show next week. There are some big changes coming – and they start with the badge, the Kia K4 replacing the old Forte nameplate.
All-New BMW Vision Neue Klasse X Reveals the Future of BMW’s SAV Line-Up
There are some big changes in the works at BMW and the Bavarian automaker has is offering a clear sign of what’s coming in the form of the all-electric BMW Vision Neue Klasse X. It marks the first time we’re seeing what future versions of the company’s Sport Activity Vehicle line-up will look like.
Mercedes-Benz Expands Plug-in Hybrid Line-up with 2025 GLC 350e 4Matic
With millions of American motorists still skeptical about going all-electric, many industry planners are betting plug-in hybrids can serve as a “bridge” technology for those worried about range and a lack of a widespread public charging network. Mercedes-Benz is expanding its own line-up of PHEVs with the addition of the new GLC 350e 4Matic based on its compact crossover line.
Hyundai Debuting 2025 Tucson and Santa Cruz at NY Auto Show
Who says auto shows are dead? Not Hyundai. The Korean carmaker plans to make some big news at the New York International Auto Show next week, unveiling not just one new model but two: the 2025 versions of the compact Tucson SUV and compact car-cum-pickup, the Santa Cruz.
Shell Shutting 1,000 Gas Stations in Shift to EV Charging
The Dutch-based energy giant Shell plans to eliminate 1,000 gas stations by the end of 2025 as it begins to put more emphasis on its EV charging operations, the company said in a new report. It already operates 3,700 charging stations in the U.S. and will not only add more facilities but expand the size of existing ones.
EPA Expected to Give Automakers a Break on Emissions and Mileage Standards
The Biden administration is expected to roll back new rules governing vehicle emission and mileage standards, a move that should prove particularly helpful for Detroit automakers who are heavily dependent upon large, fuel-hungry models like the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Suburban. But the changes likely also will benefit some Japanese manufacturers, including Toyota and Honda, that have been reluctant to invest heavily on EV technology.
Consumer Satisfaction with Dealer Service Departments Improve Despite Rising Wait Times
Automakers are making strides at improving the dealer service experience for customers, but a new report shows that wait times for appointments are still increasing. Get the full story at Headlight.News.
First Drive: 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe — A Rugged Remake
When it came to market nearly a quarter century ago, Santa Fe was Hyundai’s first SUV. Today, it’s part of a broader line-up that runs from the little Venue to the flagship Palisade – but it remains one of the brand’s best sellers. To keep momentum building, the Korean carmaker has given the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe a complete makeover, starting with the bolder and more classic SUV design. The cabin is not only roomier but adds more upscale details and plenty of welcome tech. And the XRT package now adds more rugged features for those looking to head off-road.