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Kia Sonet Facelift vs Rivals: Price Comparison

Find out how its variant-wise costs fare in opposition to the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV300

A number of weeks after the revealing of the 2024 Kia Sonet, the Korean marque has lastly introduced the costs for its facelifted subcompact SUV. The replace introduces a recent look, up to date expertise, and enhanced security options to the Sonet. Notably, Kia has introduced again the choice of a correct handbook transmission with the Sonet’s diesel powertrain. In this story, we’ve in contrast the variant-wise costs of the Sonet facelift with these of its key rivals that additionally get a diesel possibility: Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, and Mahindra XUV300.

Petrol Manual

Kia Sonet

Hyundai Venue

Tata Nexon

Mahindra XUV300

HTE  – Rs 7.99 lakh

E – Rs 7.94 Lakh

Smart – Rs 8.10 Lakh

W2 – Rs 7.99 Lakh

HTK – Rs 8.79 lakh

    

W4 – Rs 8.67 Lakh
 

S – Rs 9.11 Lakh

Smart Plus- Rs 9.10 Lakh

W4 Turbo – Rs 9.30 Lakh

HTK+ – Rs 9.90 lakh

S(O)- Rs 9.89 Lakh

Pure- Rs 9.70 Lakh

  
 

S(O) Knight- Rs 10.13 Lakh

Smart Plus S- Rs 9.70 Lakh

W6- Rs 10 Lakh

HTK+ Turbo iMT – Rs 10.49 lakh

S (O) Turbo – Rs 10.40 lakh

Pure S- Rs 10.20 Lakh

W6 Turbo- Rs 10.51 Lakh
 

SX- Rs 11.05 Lakh

    
   

Creative- Rs 11 Lakh

  

HTX Turbo iMT – Rs 11.49 lakh

SX Knight- Rs 11.38 Lakh

Creative Plus- Rs 11.70 Lakh

W8- Rs 11.51 Lakh
 

SX (O) Turbo – Rs 12.44 lakh

Creative Plus S- Rs 12.20 Lakh

W8 Turbo- Rs 12.01 Lakh
 

SX (O) Knight Turbo – Rs 12.65 lakh

Fearless – 12.50 lakh

W8 Opt- Rs 12.61 Lakh
   

Fearless S – 13 lakh

W8 Opt Turbo- Rs 13.01 Lakh

HTX+ (Turbo iMT) – Rs 13.39 lakh

  

Fearless Plus S – Rs 13.50 lakh

  

  • Among all fashions on this comparability, the Hyundai Venue has the bottom beginning value. It begins Rs 5,000 lower than the Kia Sonet. On the opposite hand, the Tata Nexon boasts the very best beginning value on this comparability, however not by lots. Meanwhile, the 2024 Sonet and the Mahindra XUV300 have the identical base value.

  • The Kia Sonet’s 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine is simply obtainable with a 5-speed handbook transmission, whereas the 1-litre turbo petrol engine comes with a 6-speed iMT (handbook transmission with out clutch pedal).

  • The Hyundai Venue additionally makes use of the identical engine choices because the Sonet; nonetheless, with its 1-litre turbo-petrol engine, Hyundai gives a correct 6-speed handbook transmission as an alternative of an iMT.

Tata Nexon 2023

  • Talking concerning the Nexon, it comes with a 5-speed handbook transmission in its base-spec Smart variant, whereas all different increased variants are geared up with a 6-speed handbook transmission.

  • Among all fashions talked about within the record, the Mahindra XUV300’s 1.2-litre TGDi (turbo-petrol) engine makes it essentially the most highly effective subcompact SUV, with an output of as much as 130 PS and 250Nm. 

  • The Tata Nexon has the most costly petrol-manual possibility, Rs 11,000 greater than the top-spec Kia Sonet. In comparability, the Hyundai Venue has essentially the most reasonably priced top-end petrol-manual possibility by a margin of as much as Rs 85,000.

Also Check Out: 2024 MG Astor Launched: More Affordable And Tech-loaded Than Before

Petrol Automatic

Kia Sonet

Hyundai Venue

Tata Nexon

Mahindra XUV300
     

W6 AMT- Rs 10.71 Lakh 
 

S(O)- Rs 11.51 Lakh

Creative AMT- Rs 11.70 Lakh

  

HTX (Turbo DCT) – Rs 12.29 lakh

  

Creative DCT- Rs 12.20 Lakh

  
   

Creative Plus AMT – Rs 12.40 Lakh

  
 

SX(O)- Rs 13.23 Lakh

Creative Plus DCT – Rs 12.90 lakh

  
   

Creative Plus S AMT- Rs 12.90 Lakh

  
 

SX(O) Knight- Rs 13.33 Lakh

Creative Plus S DCT- Rs 13.40 lakh

W8 Opt AMT- Rs 13.31 Lakh
   

Fearless DCT – Rs 13.70 lakh

  

GTX+ (Turbo DCT) – 14.50 Lakh

  

Fearless S DCT – Rs 14.20 lakh

  

X-Line (Turbo DCT) – Rs 14.69 lakh

  

Fearless Plus S DCT – Rs 14.70 lakh

  

  • The XUV300 has essentially the most reasonably priced petrol-automatic possibility right here, by Rs 1 lakh whereas the Kia Sonet has the most costly entry value for the petrol-automatic variant.

  • Both the 2024 Sonet and Hyundai Venue are supplied with the identical 1-litre turbo-petrol engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. However, it is the Sonet that boasts the next value of as much as Rs 1.36 lakh for its petrol automated fashions in comparison with that of the Venue.

  • The Tata Nexon’s 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine (120 PS / 170 Nm) is on the market with both a 6-speed AMT or a 7-speed twin clutch transmission.

  • The Mahindra XUV300 in its petrol automated variant doesn’t get the choice of the TGDi turbo petrol. Also, its common 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine (110 PS / 200 Nm) can solely be had with a 6-speed AMT.

  • While different subcompact SUVs solely supply most 2-3 variants in petrol automated, the Nexon petrol automated is available in complete of 9 variants.

Also Check Out: Hyundai Creta Facelift Reaches Dealerships Ahead Of Launch

Diesel Manual

Kia Sonet

Hyundai Venue

Tata Nexon

Mahindra XUV300

HTE – Rs 9.79 lakh

      

HTK – Rs 10.39 lakh

    

W4- Rs 10.22 Lakh
 

S+- Rs 10.71 Lakh

Pure- Rs 11 Lakh

W6- Rs 11.05 Lakh

HTK+ – Rs 11.39 lakh

  

Pure S- Rs 11.50 Lakh

  

HTX+ – Rs 11.99 lakh

      

HTX (iMT) – Rs 12.60 lakh

SX- Rs 12.37 Lakh

Creative- Rs 12.40 Lakh

  
 

SX(O) – Rs 13.29 lakh

Creative Plus- Rs 13.10 Lakh

W8- Rs 13.05 Lakh

HTX+ – Rs 13.69 lakh

  

Creative Plus S – Rs 13.60 lakh

  
   

Fearless – Rs 13.90 lakh

W8 Opt- 13.92 Lakh

HTX+ iMT – Rs 14.39 lakh

  

Fearless S – Rs 14.40 lakh

  
   

Fearless Plus S – Rs 14.90 lakh

  

  • Both the Kia Sonet and Hyundai Venue are powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine (116 PS / 250 Nm) mated to a 6-speed handbook. Additionally, the Sonet gives the choice of a 6-speed iMT (handbook with out clutch pedal) with its diesel variant.

  • The Nexon’s 1.5-litre diesel and XUV300’s 1.5-litre diesel engines are solely obtainable with a 6-speed handbook transmission. 

  • Among the diesel-manual choices, the Tata Nexon’s top-spec Fearless Plus S variant boasts the very best value. 

Diesel Automatic

Kia Sonet

Tata Nexon

Mahindra XUV300
   

W6 AMT Diesel- Rs 12.31 Lakh

HTX – Rs 12.99 lakh

Creative- Rs 13 Lakh

  
 

Creative Plus- Rs 13.80 Lakh

  
 

Creative Plus S – Rs 14.30 lakh

  
 

Fearless – Rs 14.60 lakh

W8 Opt AMT Diesel- Rs 14.61 Lakh
 

Fearless S – Rs 15 lakh

  

GTX+ – Rs 15.50 lakh

Fearless Plus S – Rs 15.50 lakh

  

X Line – Rs 15.69 lakh

    

Kia Sonet facelift

  • The Sonet continues to be the one mannequin on this phase to supply its diesel engine with a 6-speed torque converter, which is a superior automated gearbox than that of the Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV300.

  • The Hyundai Venue isn’t obtainable with a diesel-automatic possibility.

The Kia Sonet facelift, in its top-spec X Line variant, now stands as the most costly subcompact SUV on this comparability. Following the Hyundai Venue, it’s the solely subcompact SUV within the record geared up with degree 1 superior driver help techniques. 

On the opposite hand, the Tata Nexon can be a feature-loaded providing; nonetheless, it lacks a superior diesel automated transmission and ADAS. As for the Mahindra XUV300, it might not be as feature-loaded as the opposite three, however it does supply the choice of essentially the most highly effective T-GDi turbo petrol engine. Given these issues, which one would you decide amongst these, and why? Feel free to share your ideas within the feedback.

Read More on : Sonet on road price

Motorsport

Kia’s Latest Theft Deterrent Is A Bank Vault For The Ignition Cylinder

Kia plans to supply a brand new “theft deterrent device” to house owners to assist guard in opposition to their cars being stolen. The machine is a steel casing that mounts to the automotive’s ignition cylinder and is already out there for set up freed from cost.

The new ignition cylinder protector, proven above, is designed to forestall would-be thieves from eradicating the cylinder physique from the automotive’s steering column, a theft methodology popularized by social media shops like TikTok. It’s meant to suit into Kias that aren’t eligible for the security-minded software program improve the corporate despatched out again in February 2023, such because the 2011-2021 Rio, the 2011-2016 Forte, and the 2011-2016 Sportage (a full listing of the vehicles eligible for the machine may be seen under). 

“Vehicle security is a top priority for Kia and we continue to take action to support our customers by helping to protect their vehicles from thefts, which have been encouraged by content spread across social media,” Kia America service operations VP Greg Silvestri stated in a statement. “Reinforcing the ignition cylinder body is the latest step to help guard against these methods of theft and we strongly encourage owners of vehicles that don’t have engine immobilizers and are not able to receive our security software upgrade to have this free security measure installed.”

In the 11 months because the safety replace was launched, Kia says it is put in the change on practically 960,000 autos. It’s additionally given out over 330,000 free steering wheel locks to additional deter thefts, a rudimentary answer the corporate carried out in July 2023. This ignition cylinder guard is one more enchancment Kia hopes house owners will make the most of.

Kia says it is already begun notifying eligible house owners concerning the new machine with directions to deliver their automobile to the closest dealership to have it put in freed from cost. If you suppose your automotive could also be eligible, head on over to Kia’s website and punch in your VIN.

Eligible Cars Model Year
Kia Sportage 2011-2016
Kia Forte 2011-2016
Kia Soul 2010-2022
Kia Rio 2011-2021
Kia Sedona 2014
Cars

What Happens To An Engine When You Overfill It With Oil?

In the right amount, fresh engine oil will better protect against excess friction during cold starts while offering maximum lubrication during extreme hot weather. Every gas or diesel engine can only accommodate a prescribed amount of oil, and pouring too much into the crankcase will cause the oil to foam or thicken, essentially disabling the oil’s ability to flow in hot or cold operating conditions.

If the oil can’t flow, it cannot pass through the tiny oil passages to lubricate the valvetrain, combustion chamber, pistons, and other internal components. It’s no different from vigorously churning milk and turning it into butter, and a thicker, buttery consistency is not what an engine needs to prevent it from breaking down.

Moreover, more oil means raising the oil pressure unnecessarily, which leads to leaky gaskets and oil seals. If your vehicle suddenly has an illuminated check engine light after an oil change and has symptoms like blue or white smoke, subpar performance, or unusual engine noises, it could mean the engine is drowning in oil.

BMW

Statement by Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Conference Call Quarterly Statement to 30 September 2023

– Check against delivery –

Good day, everyone.

Before I discuss current developments, I want to address the recent change in the Board of Management of BMW AG.

As you all know, Jochen Goller was appointed to the Board of Management, effective November 1st. Jochen Goller has had various roles in China and the UK and has successfully managed our activities in China since 2018 as head of the MINI brand.

Meanwhile, Sean Green, previously Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at our BBA joint venture, will now be responsible for our business in China.

Jochen Goller takes over for Pieter Nota, who led our Customer, Brands and Sales Board division since 2018.

Under Pieter Nota’s leadership, the BMW Group significantly increased its global market share. During this time, the BMW brand also regained its position at the top of the premium segment and expanded it further.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to Pieter Nota and wish Jochen Goller the best as he begins his new role.

I recently returned from a trip to Asia, where I visited Beijing and attended the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo. This trip reaffirmed that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for today’s and tomorrow’s mobility. Our world is diverse, and we need different technological solutions to meet customer needs and comply with various regulatory requirements worldwide.

In China, electric vehicles dominate, although plug-in hybrids and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles also play a role in decarbonizing mobility. For example, a significant number of taxis in Beijing already run on hydrogen.

In the third quarter of this year, we experienced business growth worldwide, thanks to our wide range of premium vehicles across all drive technologies.

In China, pure electric vehicles performed exceptionally well, with sales more than tripling in the first nine months compared to the same period last year.

In Japan, the demand for all-electric cars is still relatively low, with more focus on plug-in hybrids and combustion engine cars. However, Japanese manufacturers, especially, are stepping up their efforts in the electric vehicle market, as seen at the Japan Mobility Show with their concept cars and fully-electric options.

Japan has recognized the importance of hydrogen early on, and our BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot vehicle has been well received there.

As a global premium manufacturer, the BMW Group remains committed to technology-driven decarbonization of mobility. Our strong sales and financial figures are evidence of this, and we will continue on this path in the future. We recently presented the all-electric iX2 as the latest example of our commitment, alongside the BMW X2.

The iX2 is a digital champion, featuring the new BMW Operating System 9, which provides a comprehensive range of digital features and functions, including gaming and streaming capabilities. These features, such as optimized touch controls and integrated voice control, provide our customers with a unique digital experience in their cars.

In early next year, we will continue our rollout of new all-electric products with the world premiere of the new BMW 5 Series Touring. This model will offer the same drivetrain options as the sedan, including the all-electric i5 Touring, giving us a distinct advantage in a popular segment, especially in Europe.

Our goal remains to have more than half of our global sales from all-electric cars well before 2030.

To achieve this, we are further expanding our leading role in battery cell technology. Our competence center in Parsdorf near Munich is laying the technological foundations for efficient and resource-saving battery cell production, and we are sharing this knowledge with our suppliers to set benchmarks in production, quality, performance, cost, and ecological impact.

Recently, we inaugurated the competence center in Parsdorf, where sample production of the sixth-generation round cells has begun. These cells have up to 20% higher energy density and up to 60% reduced CO2 footprint in cell production. This translates to benefits for our customers, such as up to 30% faster charging speed and up to 30% higher range according to WLTP.

Following our “local-for-local” principle, we are also ensuring that high-voltage battery assembly takes place near our vehicle plants to secure our production and reduce the carbon footprint. Production facilities for the sixth generation of BMW high-voltage batteries are being built in Debrecen, Hungary; Woodruff, South Carolina, in the US; San Luis Potosí, Mexico; and Shenyang, China. We are also planning a high-voltage battery assembly site in Irlbach-Straßkirchen to supply our vehicle production in Bavaria, which received majority support in a recent referendum to continue the planning process.

In terms of future products, we provided a preview of the NEUE KLASSE at the IAA MOBILITY in September. The BMW VISION Neue Klasse represents a new approach to individual mobility that is more human, intelligent, and responsible. For example, the materials used in the NEUE KLASSE will help reduce its carbon footprint, and it features the Panoramic Vision Display, providing a unique experience for all passengers.

The NEUE KLASSE is not just another BMW car; it is a new generation of products. Within 24 months, we will release six models, from SAVs to sedans, all powered by electric drivetrains.

MINI is also undergoing a complete electrification transformation, with plans to be fully electric by 2030. At the IAA MOBILITY, we showcased two key members of the new MINI family: the MINI Cooper 3-Door and the MINI Countryman. The next fully-electric MINI, the MINI Aceman, is set to make its world premiere in April 2024 in the premium-compact car segment. The new MINI family is produced by our Chinese joint-venture partner, Spotlight, as well as in our plants in Leipzig and Oxford.

Rolls-Royce, our second British brand, is also transitioning to exclusive electric models by the early 2030s. Preparations for the sales launch of the first electric Rolls-Royce are underway, with the Spectre scheduled for release by the end of the year. Torsten Müller-Ötvös, who has led Rolls-Royce since 2010, will retire, and Chris Brownridge will take over as the new leader.

In the realm of BMW Motorrad, we recently celebrated the brand’s centenary with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Under Markus Schramm’s leadership, BMW Motorrad expanded its product range, entered new markets, and achieved record-breaking years. Markus Flasch has taken over as the new leader, bringing his experience from BMW M GmbH and the mid-size and luxury class and Rolls-Royce product line.

While we continue to expand and refine our product range, digitalizing the customer interface is a top priority. Our new direct sales model for MINI will soon launch in Europe, following a successful rollout in China. This model offers full price transparency and seamless integration of online and offline consulting options for customers. It also provides an attractive business model for our retailers, and our European retailers have already signed contracts. This direct sales model gives the BMW Group direct access to customers, allowing us to curate an entirely new customer experience, exemplified by our “Proactive Care” service, which uses data analytics and AI to detect potential vehicle problems proactively.

In conclusion, the BMW Group’s strategic approach is continuing to yield success in 2023. Our diversified position, with a broad product portfolio and global production sites, is reinforced by recent recognition from TIME magazine and Statista, where we ranked in the top ten of the world’s top 750 companies and were the highest-rated automotive manufacturer worldwide. Internally, our Employee Survey reaffirmed the positive mood within the company, with our employees expressing pride in working for the BMW Group and supporting our goals.

Thank you.

BMW

Statement by Walter Mertl, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Finance, on the Quarterly Statement up to September 30, 2023

– Check against delivery –

Slide 2: BMW Group Quarterly Statement up to September 30, 2023

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen!

Slide 3: Highlights of BMW Group Performance in Q3 and YTD September

The BMW Group had a strong performance in the third quarter with solid sales growth and positive financial key figures.

In the third quarter, the Group’s EBT margin was 10.6%, and for the nine-month period from January to September, it was 11.9% – surpassing the strategic target of 10%.

The Automotive Segment’s EBIT margin was 9.8% for the third quarter and 10.3% for the year up to September. Without depreciation of BBA assets, the margins were 10.8% for Q3 and 11.4% for nine months.

After a successful third quarter, the BMW Group expects a positive business development in the fourth quarter. All segments are on track to meet their goals for the year.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the business figures for the third quarter and the first nine months.

Slide 4: BMW Group in Q3

Starting with the Group figures, the earnings before tax for the third quarter were consistent with last year, at just under 4.1 billion euros. The year-to-date pre-tax earnings decreased by about 6.8 billion euros, but this includes a one-time income from the revaluation of equity interests in BBA last year. Looking at the underlying operating result, Group earnings were 900 million euros higher year-on-year in the first nine months.

Slide 5: Automotive Retail units, BEV units, Auto revenue and Auto EBIT

Now, let’s focus on the Automotive Segment. In the third quarter of 2023, the BMW Group delivered just under 622,000 vehicles to customers, a 5.8% increase compared to the previous year. Year to date September, deliveries rose 5.1% to around 1.84 million vehicles.

The order books are filled, and new models like the BMW 5 Series will contribute to future sales growth. The BMW Group sold around 94,000 all-electric vehicles in Q3 and just under 247,000 for the nine-month period. The share of battery-electric vehicles in total sales continues to grow, reaching 15.1% in Q3. The sales of all-electric vehicles are expected to receive a further boost from the launch of the new BMW i5 in the fourth quarter.

The Automotive Segment’s operating result for the third quarter was just over 3.1 billion euros, with an EBIT margin of 9.8%. Year to date September, the EBIT margin was 10.3%.

Slide 6: Automotive Segment EBIT in Q3

Looking at the Automotive Segment’s operating result in more detail, the year-on-year comparison shows that Q3 2023 was impacted by currency and raw material positions, mainly due to currency translation effects from the Chinese renminbi. Higher vehicle sales, favorable model mix, and pricing effects contributed to a tailwind. Research and development expenses increased, reflecting investments in electrification, digitalization, and new models. Sales and administrative costs also increased, partly due to digitalization projects. Other cost changes included material and logistics costs.

Slide 7: Automotive Segment Free Cash Flow in Q3

Free cash flow in the Automotive Segment was 2.6 billion euros in the third quarter. The strong quarterly result and change in working capital contributed to this figure. Capital expenditure and depreciation had a negative impact, while changes in provisions and other items boosted free cash flow. At the end of September, free cash flow stood at around 5.8 billion euros. In the fourth quarter, there will be a significant increase in capital expenditure, and costs and higher tax payments will weigh on free cash flow.

Slide 8: Financial Services Segment YTD September

In the Financial Services Segment, new financing and leasing contracts with retail customers decreased by 5.6% year to date September, mainly due to higher interest rates. However, new business in financial services showed a positive trend in Q3, with contracts with end customers rising by 5.7% compared to Q3 2022. Segment earnings before tax decreased by 8.3%, reflecting higher refinancing costs and a smaller total portfolio size.

Slide 9: Motorcycles Segment in Q3

In the Motorcycles Segment, sales in the third quarter were on par with the high level of Q3 2022. The EBIT margin for the quarter was -0.6%, and for the first nine months, it was 12.0%.

Slide 10: Outlook 2023

The BMW Group expects stable business development for the rest of the year and confirms its guidance for the financial year 2023 for all segments, assuming geopolitical and macroeconomic conditions do not significantly deteriorate. In the Automotive Segment, a solid increase in deliveries is planned, with an EBIT margin between 9 and 10.5% and a Return on Capital Employed (RoCE) between 18 and 22%. The Motorcycles Segment is projected to report higher sales, with an EBIT margin between 8 and 10% and a RoCE between 21 and 26%. The Financial Services Segment aims for a Return on Equity (RoE) between 16 and 19% for the full year.

Slide 11: BMW Group performs as it transforms

The BMW Group’s third-quarter results showcase its performance capabilities. With an attractive product portfolio and a long-term strategy, the Group remains cautiously optimistic about the future. Continuous profitable growth and disciplined cost management support the BMW Group’s business success and investments in emission-free mobility. The Group’s financial strength allows it to shape its own future and create value.

Motorsport

Jaguar XJ220: A Fast Tour of Monaco at 5 MPH

The Jaguar XJ220 was a competitor to the Ferrari F40 and Porsche 959. However, unlike its rivals, this British supercar hasn’t seen a significant increase in value. According to Hagerty’s stats, it generally sells for less than $1 million. In this video, former Fifth Gear host Tiff Needel, who is also a racing driver, takes the XJ220, which is up for auction, on a ride through Monaco and the neighboring mountains.

Needel meets up with former Formula One driver Thierry Boutsen to examine the Jaguar supercar. The two share a friendly relationship and jokingly reminisce about their racing days. Boutsen, who deals in specialty automobiles as part of his business in Monaco, is the seller of the car.


Technology

Why You Should Be Cautious About Free VPN Services

There are some important reasons why you should think twice before using a free VPN service. One major concern is the practice of collecting and selling user data. Free VPN services keep a record of your online activities, including the websites you visit, downloads, and other online interactions. This information is then used to create a detailed profile of your online behavior.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t end there. The data collected by these free VPN services often ends up in the hands of marketers and advertisers. This means that those who use free VPNs for online anonymity can unintentionally become targets of invasive advertising and marketing practices. It’s ironic that people turn to VPNs to enhance their privacy, only to have their privacy and security compromised by the very service they thought would protect them.

While security should be a fundamental aspect of any reliable VPN service, many free VPNs fall short in this area. They often take shortcuts and have weak security controls and protocols. This defeats the purpose of using a VPN and puts users at risk of cyber threats, such as hacking and data theft. Unfortunately, users who rely on these services may mistakenly believe that their data is encrypted and secure, unaware that it’s actually vulnerable.

News

Alfa Romeo Plans to Introduce an Electric SUV to Compete with the BMW iX

Alfa Romeo has announced plans to launch a large electric SUV in 2027 that will rival the BMW iX, the Lotus Eletre, the next-generation Porsche Cayenne, and a new model from Alpine.

The SUV will belong to the E-segment and will come after the replacement for the Stelvio SUV, according to Alfa Romeo CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato.

Imparato stated that the new SUV will be taller than Alfa’s previous E-segment offering, the 166 saloon, but lower than traditional SUVs in order to enhance aerodynamics and provide an engaging driving experience.

The vehicle will be built on the same EV-only STLA Large platform as the next Stelvio and the replacement for the Giulia saloon. This platform has been specifically designed for the premium brands under Stellantis, including Alfa Romeo, DS, Lancia, and Maserati.

The SUV will feature an 800V electrical architecture that enables ultra-rapid charging. It will have a long range of up to 500 miles, with the ability to recharge a significant portion of that range in less than 30 minutes using powerful public chargers.

While the SUV will be sold in Europe, the primary markets for Alfa Romeo will be the US and China, said Imparato. He explained that if the company only focused on Western Europe, the volumes would be too small and uncertain due to the evolving segment.

Using the STLA Large platform will also give Alfa Romeo the option to equip the SUV with up to three motors. This layout has already been associated with a high-performance Quadrifoglio version of the forthcoming electric Giulia, which is expected to have over 1000 horsepower.

The SUV will also come with advanced digital functionality that rivals Tesla, thanks to Stellantis’s new STLA Brain electronic architecture. It will offer features such as hands-free driving and an improved infotainment interface compared to current Alfa models.

However, Alfa Romeo has emphasized that its future cars will prioritize handling and driving experience over flashy technology. Design chief Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos stated that Alfa Romeo is known for producing driver’s cars and will focus on maintaining a rear-wheel-drive visual aesthetic in its larger vehicles.

Cars

Overview: United States Air Combat Victories from Vietnam to Present

Over the past 50 years, the number of air combat victories against manned aircraft has significantly decreased since the United States’ withdrawal from Vietnam. Examining the types of conflicts the country has been involved in sheds light on the reasons behind this decline. Despite ongoing armed conflicts, the prevalence of air combat has diminished due to various factors. In previous major conflicts, such as World War II, the Korean War, and the War in Vietnam, the United States and its allies faced the air power of entire countries like Imperial Japan, Nazi Germany, North Korea, and North Vietnam. However, recent conflicts primarily involve non-state actors like ISIS or Al-Qaeda, as well as smaller forces with limited air power, such as the U.S. Invasion of Panama. Additionally, the utilization of drones and the introduction of modern technologies like Chinese surveillance balloons have significantly reduced manned air combat. These developments have contributed to fewer instances where U.S. aircraft have engaged in combat.

Despite having the world’s most advanced fleet of aircraft, only a small fraction of these jets have participated in combat. Nevertheless, in rare instances where U.S. pilots have engaged in combat, they have consistently emerged as victorious.

Camera Reviews

Lumix G9 II Review: A Great Upgrade for Professional Wildlife Photography

Despite not having a fan, the G9 II performs well in terms of overheating. This is because smaller sensors produce less heat. The previous model, the S5 II, could only record for 30 minutes in 6K mode, but the G9 II has no such limitations. To test its performance under extreme conditions, the camera was placed in a non-air-conditioned space with an ambient temperature of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and various video modes were tested.

In most common resolutions and framerates, the G9 II handles the workload without any issues. It can keep running until the battery dies, which is around 90 minutes with a full charge. Only at the highest resolutions and framerates does overheating become a possibility. After continuous recording, the grip and viewfinder of the camera become uncomfortably hot, and eventually, the camera shuts down to cool down.

The G9 II managed to run for 54 minutes at the maximum 5.8k resolution before overheating. It also performed well at 4K 60, running for a respectable 50 minutes. However, in the case of 4K 120, the camera could only sustain recording for 19 minutes before shutting down. However, in real-world scenarios, 120 FPS is rarely needed for more than a few seconds at a time, so this limitation may not be a significant issue. If you require better cooling, consider upgrading to the GH6 model.