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The 2023 Kia Niro will cost $1800 more than in the previous model year, bringing the starting price up to $27,785.The Niro has grown slightly, increasing cabin space as it enters its second generation.The front-wheel-drive compact crossover will be at dealers shortly.The tiny Niro brings bold styling and shows off a bit of a growth spurt for its second generation. The 2023 Niro brings additional cabin space for passengers but tacks $1800 onto the starting price when compared to the previous model year, for a base price of $27,785. Kia also simplified the lineup. Remaining are the base LX, the midrange EX, and the range-topping SX, which starts at $33,785. There’s an optional Touring trim package as well, the price of which has not yet been announced.The new Niro is a bit larger, not just more expensive: the wheelbase is just under an inch longer, and the body is 2.5 inches longer overall. Maximum cargo capacity, as a result, is up from 100.9 to 105.1 cubic feet, and there’s 2.4 inches more rear legroom. Also, the base version of the previous-gen Niro lacked a lot of the standard driver-assist technology offered by competitors. Kia remedied that by giving every trim level standard forward collision and rear-cross traffic warning systems, plus blind-spot monitoring.Despite the higher prices, the 2023 Niro carries over mechanically from the outgoing generation. The Niro comes only with front-wheel drive and produces 139 total horsepower through its 1.6-liter inline-four engine that is paired with a 43-hp electric motor. The Niro has an EPA combined fuel-economy figure of 53 mpg. In our own 75-mph highway test, we achieved 46 mpg with the 2022 Niro.Pricing for the plug-in hybrid and fully electric variants of the 2023 Niro have not been released yet. We expect to see them soon, and likely at a cost premium over the standard hybrid version. This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

New S and Azure versions of the luxurious Bentley Bentayga Hybrid are sportier and waftier, respectively.The new model has slightly more power and electric range than the existing hybrid model, with Bentley targeting a 27-mile electric-only range.At least for now, these trims are for the standard-wheelbase Bentayga only, not the newly introduced EWB version.Having been relatively late to start electrifying its range, these days Bentley has been picking up the pace. The latest additions are two new plug-in-hybrid Bentayga variants, both boasting both power and electric range improvements over the existing version.The new Bentayga S Hybrid and Bentayga Azure Hybrid use the same 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 as the existing model, but the electric motor that sits between this and their eight-speed torque converter gearboxes has been given a modest upgrade, producing peaks of 134 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. These represent small but significant increases over the 126 hp and 258 pound-feet quoted for the previous synchronous-magnet AC motor. Peak output has risen to a claimed 455 hp, up from 443 hp, although the company’s official zero-to-62-mph time of 5.2 seconds and top speed of 158 mph are unchanged.Bentley Bentayga Azure Hybrid.BentleyBentley Azure S Hybrid.A more significant enhancement given the first Bentayga Hybrid’s minimal electric-only range is a new 18.0-kWh battery pack. We don’t have EPA numbers for this, but Bentley says it is targeting a 27-mile electric-only range, appreciably more than the derisory 18-mile EV autonomy of the existing Hybrid’s 13.0-kWh battery. We haven’t been told if the new pack weighs any more than the old one, which was reportedly 463 pounds.Enhancements in the Engine Bay Despite their shared powertrain, both new plug-in variants have been tuned to different dynamic purposes. The Hybrid S is effectively a greener version of the existing V-8–powered Bentayga S, with Bentley promising it will have a more aggressive soundtrack than the regular Hybrid thanks to what it calls “enhancements in the engine bay” and what we’re promised is an exhaust note within the cabin that can be “tuned to different effect for front and rear passengers,” suggesting the use of a sound symposer. The S also gets damping that is 15 percent stiffer, natty 22-inch alloys, and a more permissive ESC setting when running in Sport mode.Bentley Azure Hybrid.BentleyThe Bentayga Azure Hybrid takes the opposite approach, aiming to increase serenity. Bentley says its Azure models are designed around the increasingly fashionable concept of wellness, although in this case that means maximum comfort and minimal disruption rather than overpriced candles. That means an even more hushed engine note than the already calm regular Bentayga Hybrid plus what the company refers to as “wellness quilting.” This being, apparently, “the visual and tactile pleasure of precisely crafted diamond-quilted upholstery.” Which does indeed sound lovely.Inside the S Hybrid.BentleyInside the Azure Hybrid.Both new Hybrid models will only be available with the regular-wheelbase Bentayga for now, which seems slightly surprising given how well the motor and Azure trim would doubtless go with the new extended-wheelbase version. It probably won’t be long before the plug-in powertrain and stretched body meet on a product-planning Venn diagram.Important BusinessWe also don’t know if the regular Bentayga Hybrid will survive long next to this subtly upgraded model; we suspect it won’t. This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

Revealed tonight, the 2023 Ford Super Duty pickup trucks have been redesigned and benefit from updated exterior and interior styling. The Super Duty now offers tech such as an onboard generator, new trailering assists, a head-up display, and access to a 5G wireless network. Ford’s heavy-duty lineup also adds new and improved powertrains, including a newly standard gas-fed 6.8-liter V-8 and an enhanced Power Stroke diesel.The 2023 Ford Super Duty is redesigned with fresh styling elements, updated powertrains, and new technology. While the F-250, F-350, and F-450 are still primarily heavy-duty workhorses, Ford enhances them with features aimed at taking the trucks to another level of capability and functionality. They’ll square off, as always, against Chevrolet Silverado HD and Ram HD models that are also freshening up this time of year.New Mugs, Nicer InteriorsThe 2023 Super Duty lineup rolls out with seven different grille designs, which vary among the trim levels and available appearance packages. The most notable visual update is the truck’s C-shaped lighting elements. All models can now be fitted with LED headlights, too. The addition of long side vents is said to improve the trucks’ aerodynamics. Super Duty trucks can also be dressed up with new design packages that offer unique trim, rim, and paint combinations. The new XL Off-Road package specifically includes 33-inch all-terrain tires, skid plates, an electronic locking rear diff, and more and is only available on the single-rear-axle, four-wheel-drive F-250 and F-350.Inside the F-350 Lariat.FordInside, the Super Duty trucks receive an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that’s standard starting on the XL model. Higher trim levels are equipped with a 12.0-inch unit. Audiophiles can choose from a 640-watt, eight-speaker B&O sound system or a more powerful 1080-watt, 18-speaker B&O setup. Other desirable interior features that are available include a configurable 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster, a wireless charging pad, and a slot on the center console that’s designed to hold a table upright. Those looking to relax will appreciate the Super Duty’s optional Max Recline Seats that fold nearly flat and incorporate a lower cushion that rises to create an even more comfortable position.Updated Powertrain OptionsFor 2023, the standard engine on the Super Duty is a new gas-fed 6.8-liter V-8. It pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission just like all the other available engines. Also like all the other engines, Ford isn’t saying how much horsepower or torque any of them make, but we expect them to meet or beat their previous outputs. That includes the gas-burning 7.3-liter V-8, which receives revised tuning and an improved air intake. The Power Stroke diesel 6.7-liter V-8 remains a staple of the Super Duty lineup, and there’s a new high-output version with updated tuning, a unique turbocharger, and revised exhaust manifolds. Ford estimates the enhancements will make it the most powerful diesel truck in its class. Also new for 2023, all models starting with the XLT come standard with four-wheel drive.View PhotosL-R: F-250 Tremor, F-350 Limited, F-350 Lariat, XL STX.FordTech GiantsPerhaps the most notable updates to the 2023 Super Duty trucks are their myriad new tech-focused features. It’s the first time they’re available with a 5G wireless connection that helps the infotainment system perform quicker, and it accepts over-the-air updates and allows up to 10 devices to connect to a Wi-Fi hotspot. Plus, Ford makes its mightiest trucks available with its 2.0-kW onboard generator (a.k.a. ProPower Onboard). The Super Duty can also be equipped with a head-up display for the first time, and there are new driver-assist features, too. The list includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality as well as lane-centering assist. The addition of front and rear emergency braking helps prevent the giant pickups from colliding with objects at low speeds.When it comes to towing, the Ford Super Duty is not only prepared for pulling massive loads, but now it boasts high-tech assists that make jobs easier. The introduction of onboard scales gives users an estimated cargo weight to make sure they don’t exceed the truck’s payload. The feature also helps guide people on how to evenly distribute the trailer’s tongue weight. Along with a blind-spot monitor for fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing, the Super Duty is now available with a 360-degree camera system specifically designed for trailers. Another cool new feature is navigation that shows routes that best accommodate a trailer’s specific dimensions and weight to help the driver avoid headaches. Anyone who has backed up with the tailgate down has undoubtedly bemoaned the fact that the traditional backup camera becomes useless. Ford addresses that by adding a camera in the top of the tailgate. This, along with the integrated parking sensors, is intended to make the act of backing up with the tailgate down easier than ever.Ford hasn’t yet released pricing for the 2023 Super Duty lineup. However, the company says it’ll release those figures closer to the time the trucks enter production, which should be sometime early next year.This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.This content is imported from OpenWeb. 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BMW has revealed the new 2023 XM, a performance SUV with a plug-in-hybrid powertrain.It features a twin-turbo V-8 and an electric motor that combine to produce 644 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque.The XM starts at $159,995 and will go on sale in the U.S. in the first quarter of 2023.BMW M is best known for sports sedans like the M3 and M5. But the performance division is going in many new directions as of late, and the new 2023 XM combines many of these fresh elements in a single vehicle—fitting, as this is meant to be M’s new flagship. As an SUV that’s available exclusively as an M, the XM also introduces a new plug-in-hybrid powertrain that’s the first hybrid ever to wear the M badge. The concept version of the XM proved controversial when it made its debut last year, and now we have all the details on the production version that’s slated to go on sale in the U.S. in the first quarter of 2023.The XM’s powertrain consists of a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 combined with an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission. There’s also a 25.7-kWh battery pack that enables an estimated electric driving range of 30 miles. Total output sits at 644 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, and there will be an even more powerful Label Red version coming later on with a claimed 735 hp and 735 pound-feet. This makes the XM the most powerful current production BMW—and it’ll need all that grunt to move around its 6062 pound mass.More on the XMWere it not an M exclusive, the XM might otherwise wear the X8 designation. It’s considerably larger than both the X5 and X6, but smaller than the three-row X7, much like the relationship between Audi’s Q7 and Q8 SUVs. The XM is a two-row model with five seats, and its interior features many of the wilder design elements seen on the concept version. A two-tone blue and brown leather color scheme is available, and the brown “vintage” leather is meant to look aged. There’s also an interesting pattern in the headliner that’s accompanied by LED lighting elements that pulse when you receive a phone call or try to open the door when an object is sensed outside.The exterior design is more angular and imposing than many of BMW’s other SUVs. The large kidney grilles up front are flanked by split headlights like those on the latest X7. A strong, accented character line rises along the side and kicks up at the rear doors as a nod to the classic BMW Hofmeister kink. There are BMW logos engraved into each upper corner of the rear window, and the aggressive-looking taillights wrap around the sides. Quad exhaust tips and diffuser elements give the rear bumper a racy look. 23-inch wheels are standard, but 22-inchers are optional, and BMW says the smaller size saves weight.Adaptive dampers are standard equipment, as is an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential and a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system. 48-volt active anti-roll bars are a feature new to BMW M, although the XM uses traditional steel springs rather than an air suspension. Our initial drive of a prototype XM earlier this year revealed a surprisingly engaging driving experience, largely thanks to the steering tuning, so we look forward to sampling the final version to see if the spry handling is preserved.The XM will compete with other high-po SUVs such as the Audi RS Q8 and Mercedes-AMG GLE63, and is even aiming for higher targets including the Aston Martin DBX and Lamborghini Urus. It will start at $159,995, but options should add a considerable sum to that total, and the more powerful Label Red model will carry a sticker price of over $185,000. Like it or not, this super-SUV now represents the pinnacle of the M lineup, and it’ll start arriving at U.S. dealerships early next year.This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

The BMW Z4 gets a slightly more aggressive look in this mid-third-generation refresh.Among smaller changes, one addition is that the Sport body trim, already standard on the M40i, is now added to the sDrive 30i.The 2023 Z4 will be out in November, priced at $53,795 for the sDrive 30i and $66,295 for the M40i. Props to BMW for sticking around with its roadster: the segment has been shrinking continuously, but a few convertibles are still around. One of them is the BMW Z4, which entered its third model generation (the fourth, if you count the Z3) just two years ago. Surprisingly, it is already up for an update, although this is less of a mid-cycle refresh (at least we hope we aren’t there yet) and more of a streamlining.From the C/D ArchiveThe Z4 is one of our favorites because it is a serious sports car, and we suspect that is not least the case because of Toyota’s input in this joint project, which led both to the Z4 and the Supra. We understand that BMW was content with a roadster that would improve on the qualities of the predecessor, while Toyota had its sights set on the Porsche Cayman. Tellingly, the joint project only took off after Herbert Diess left BMW for the pastures of Wolfsburg; he had been interested in jointly developing a hybrid with Toyota, but the Japanese insisted on a purist approach. What emerged were two cars—the Z4 and the Supra—that are extremely competent in their own right, with marked differences.Two Engine ChoicesIn many other markets, the Z4 is available as the sDrive 20i, with an 194-hp entry-level 2.0-liter four and a six-speed manual, but the U.S. portfolio begins with a more powerful version of the same four-banger, the 255-hp sDrive 30i. The range is topped by a second model, the straight-six 382-hp M40i. Both engines are mated to the ubiquitous ZF-sourced 8HP torque-converter-type automatic.To reach a “new maximum of sportiness,” as the press release gushes, the formerly optional M Sport body trim, which has always been standard on the M40i, now becomes standard equipment on the sDrive 30i as well. The more chiseled and aggressive look will no doubt please the attention-seeking crowd, although we never had a problem with the cleaner look of the now-deleted Sport Line look that the brand had identified as “Classic BMW Design.” Experts will still be able to tell the two models apart: The M40i comes with mirror caps in the bronze-ish Cerium Gray and larger, angular exhaust tips.BMWBMWThere’s a minor nose job, too: Both variants get a restyled front kidney grille which loses the vertically positioned dots in favor of horizontally oriented décor that is designed to “add to the impression of width at the front.” Three “rich” new metallic colors, a new optional 19-inch wheel design and optional black trim for the headlights top off the rather modest list of changes, which thankfully does not include the curved dashboard that is currently trickling down from the iX electric SUV to most of BMW’s other models.The new model year launches in November, with prices starting at $53,795 for the sDrive 30i and $66,295 for the M40i, which is only a couple hundred dollars above 2022 prices. We’re glad the Z4 carries on, and we hope it does so for many more years. The mild enhancements should give it a boost in the market until we see more substantial changes a few years down the road—which, if we were granted a wish, would include a manual transmission on the glorious straight-six like the Supra now offers.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

Dodge has revealed six out of the seven “Last Call” send-offs for the Charger and Challenger, but has now announced the final debut has been pushed back.Dodge cited “product and supply challenges” and said the reveal will be rescheduled.We’re not sure what form this Last Call model will take, but we can be fairly certain that it will be powered by a V-8 with at least six liters of displacement.So far, Dodge has shown six out of the seven Last Call special editions that spell the end of the line for the Charger and Challenger as we know them. The muscle cars are set to be replaced by electric versions in the near future, as previewed by the Charger Daytona SRT concept. The final Last Call vehicle was supposed to be revealed at the 2022 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, Nevada this November, but Dodge is now announcing that the debut has been delayed.The 2023 Dodge Charger King Daytona.DodgeDodge cites “product and supply challenges,” stating that once those issues have been ironed out, the unveiling will be rescheduled. Dodge has yet to provide any hints as to what this final Last Call car might be. So far, Dodge has shown three Chargers and three Challengers, so the odds on which model will constitute the remaining special edition are equal, but we would guess it will be the flashier Challenger coupe.The 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown.DodgeMore Dodge “Last Call” EditionsWe also don’t know what will motivate this Last Call model, but so far all of the special editions have come with either the Hellcat supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 or the Scat Pack 6.4-liter V-8. Perhaps the last car will up the ante with the Demon version of the 6.2-liter with upward of 800 horsepower. Some of the Last Call models have also revived classic Dodge names, such as Swinger or Super Bee, while others have honored historic vehicles, like the Black Ghost or King Daytona. We wouldn’t be surprised to see another name from the past reappear whenever the concluding Last Call Dodge is revealed.This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

The entry-level 2023 QX50 starts at $41,495, which is a $1320 increase over the previous model year. All 2023 QX50s will receive a frameless rearview mirror, heated exterior mirrors, and a wireless charging pad as standard. In addition to new standard features, the QX50 is gaining a midlevel trim option labeled Sport with a starting price of $49,695.Infiniti released updated and increased pricing on the QX50. Jumping $1320 over the previous model year, the 2023 QX50 carries a starting price of $41,495. That’s not quite as bad as the $2520 increase on the larger QX60, but it does show another example of a manufacturer hiking starting prices for the 2023 model year. Interestingly, the lowest price increase is felt on the top-of-the-line Autograph trim, which now starts at $58,545. As well as increasing the starting price, Infiniti has added a new Sport trim level and updated the standard features for all trim levels. More on InfinitiInfiniti is adding a host of new standard features for the QX50 to help offset the increased cost. Heated exterior mirrors, a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror, a remote start engine, rear door alert, and a wireless phone charging pad are all standard across trim levels. Like all 2023 Infinitis, the QX50 will also benefit from three years or 36,000 miles of scheduled maintenence; including inspections, oil changes and tire rotations. InfinitiThe new Sport trim level is a mid-tier option that slots in between the Luxe and the Sensory. It features a unique front fascia and gloss-black exterior trim. It also receives 20-inch machine finished wheels in lieu of the 19-inch wheels offered on the cheaper Pure and Luxe trim levels. Pricing for the Sport starts at $49,695. Opting for all-wheel drive rather than the standard front-wheel drive requires an additional $2000 on all but the range-topping Autograph trim, where AWD is standard. This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More