Tag Archives: costs

Motorsport

This Scale Model Pre-War Bugatti Costs As Much As A GR86

The Bugatti Type 59 mannequin automobile you see right here prices greater than a plethora of actual autos sitting new on dealership heaps proper now. We aren’t speaking about entry-level rides, both. An asking worth of $28,020 is Toyota Camry cash, or for just some thousand extra, you may take residence a spiffy new Miata.

But this Bugatti is extra artwork than automobile. It’s the newest masterpiece from high-end mannequin maker Amalgam, depicting the classic racer because it was in 1935, campaigned by Jean-Pierre Wimille at Spa for the Belgium Grand Prix. Making this explicit piece additional particular is Wimille himself, or somewhat, a 1:8 rendition of his likeness. Amalgam is eager to create extra basic race automobile fashions with correct driver figures, so the corporate labored with a studio in Italy to make it occur.


Motorsport

2024 Kia Sorento Is $1,600 More Expensive Than Before

Update 1/30/2024: Kia has introduced pricing for the facelifted 2024 Sorento within the US. The SUV prices a bit extra, now beginning at $33,365 together with a $1,375 vacation spot cost. That’s a $1,600 improve from final yr.

That base value will get you a Sorento LX with front-wheel drive. Here’s a breakdown of pricing for different non-hybrid Sorento trim ranges (hybrid particulars and pricing will come later in 2024).

Model Base Price MSRP w/ Destination
Sorento LX FWD $31,990 $33,365
Sorento S FWD $34,390 $35,765
Sorento S AWD $36,390 $37,765
Sorento EX FWD $37,990 $39,365
Sorento SX FWD $41,690 $43,065
Sorento X-Line EX AWD $41,690 $43,065
Sorento X-Line SX AWD $43,490 $44,865
Sorento X-Line SX Prestige AWD $46,390 $47,765
Sorento X-Pro SX Prestige AWD $47,390 $48,765

We’ve already seen the visible adjustments coming to the brand new Kia Sorento, and now it is time for a bit extra information on the model being bought in North America. Actually, variations is the proper time period, as a result of the outgoing physique type will probably be bought alongside refreshed fashions for 2024. It all will depend on whether or not you select combustion or hybrid powertrains.

If you like your Kia SUV with pure inside combustion energy, there is a restyled 2024 Sorento in your future. Borrowing design cues from the EV9, the edgy look options T-shaped lights and daytime lamps flanking a well-known Kia grille. Kia badging strikes to the hood, a revamped fascia sits low, and for those who go for the brand new X-Pro trim, you will get smaller 17-inch wheels with bigger BF Goodrich all-terrain tires.

2024 Kia Sorento
2024 Kia Sorento
2024 Kia Sorento

Moving inside, you will see extra modest adjustments for the Sorento. An accessible panoramic curved show incorporates twin 12.3-inch models in a single display, mounted to a touch that retains a well-known form versus the outgoing mannequin. Features just like the local weather management vents are redesigned to accommodate the display, nevertheless it’s what you may’t see that makes an even bigger distinction. The refreshed Sorento pulls from the EV9’s slate of superior tech that, amongst different issues, contains Kia’s Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) and over-the-air updates.

Other notable tech features a smart-adaptive cruise management system that “learns” your driving type with regard to acceleration and braking. We’ll assume it solely picks up the nice habits, but when not, Kia contains 10 driver-assist programs as customary, together with an up to date ahead collision alert that may higher detect pedestrians. The automaker’s Digital Key 2.0 system is out there, turning suitable smartphones into Sorento keys that may lock and unlock the SUV.



Featured

New Mahindra XUV400 EL Pro Variant Explained In 15 Pictures

The new Pro variants of the Mahindra XUV400 EV prices as much as Rs 1.5 lakh lower than the beforehand obtainable variants

Mahindra XUV400 EV Front

The Mahindra XUV400 EV, nonetheless obtainable in the identical variant lineup EC and EL as earlier than, now carry the ‘Pro’ suffix. Notable adjustments embody an up to date dashboard design, a bigger touchscreen, and a completely digital driver’s show. In this text, we’ve got detailed the top-spec EL Pro variant of the XUV400 EV in 15 photos.

Mahindra XUV400 EV Front

Mahindra hasn’t made any main design adjustments to the outside of the XUV400 EV with the introduction of the Pro variant. Its fascia nonetheless has the copper inserts on the closed-off grille and projector headlights with LED DRLs.

Mahindra XUV400 EV Rear

In profile, there aren’t any noticeable adjustments on this new variant. At the again, it has the identical LED back lights as earlier than. The solely updates on the surface are a shark-fin antenna and an EV badge on the tailgate.

Also Check Out: Tata Punch EV Interior Revealed, Gets Dual 10.25-inch Displays And Updated Centre Console

Mahindra has made main adjustments on the within of the electrical SUV. The dashboard design has been tweaked, that includes a brand new centre console with repositioned centre AC vents and a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel. On the co-driver’s aspect of the dashboard, the cupboard space has been changed with a piano black insert.

Mahindra XUV400 EV Centre Console

The XUV400 EV EL Pro variant now encompasses a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The local weather management panel has been up to date and now boasts dual-zone performance.

Also Check Out: Maruti eVX Electric SUV Confirmed To Arrive By End Of 2024

Below the local weather management panel are two charging ports and a wi-fi smartphone charger. The drive mode selector lever stays the identical as earlier than, and behind it, two cup holders have additionally been offered.

Another important change is the brand new 10.25-inch digital driver’s show, borrowed from the Mahindra XUV700. This driver’s show might be synced with the infotainment system to play the maps feed through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

Mahindra XUV400 EV EL Pro Variant Front Seats

The upholstery has additionally been revised from an all-black theme to a black-and-beige theme. Amenities like a sunroof and height-adjustable driver’s seat have been retained. 

Those seated within the rear now get AC vents as properly, alongside the prevailing adjustable headrests.

With the second row getting used, the XUV400 EV gives a boot house of 378 litres. The seats can be break up into 60:40 ratio for further house. 

Mahindra XUV400 EV EL Pro Variant

The XUV400 EV EL Pro variant gives two battery pack choices: 34.5 kWh and 39.4 kWh, having claimed vary of 375 km and 456 km, respectively. These batteries are paired with a single electrical motor that produces 150 PS and 310 Nm.

Price Range & Rivals

The Mahindra XUV400 EV is now priced between Rs 15.49 lakh and Rs 17.49 lakh (ex-showroom pan India). It continues to rival the Tata Nexon EV, whereas being an inexpensive different to the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric.

Read More on : Mahindra XUV400 EV Automatic

Motorsport

The Honda Civic Type R Costs $100,000+ In The Netherlands. Here’s Why

The 2024 Honda Civic Type R prices $45,890 within the US once you embrace vacation spot and dealing with charges. But math is completely different in European Union nations, and it isn’t simply due to the value-added tax (VAT). The Netherlands is a stunning instance of how one can spend six figures on a automobile powered by a small four-cylinder engine. No, we’re not speaking concerning the Mercedes-AMG C63.

Dutch pay 21 p.c for VAT on a brand new automobile earlier than the dreaded Belasting van personenauto’s en motorrijwielen (BPM) comes into play. BPM basically means “taxation of passenger cars and motorcycles” and the charges rely upon the quantity of CO2 emissions spewing from the tailpipe. In the case of the Civic Type R, the recent hatch spits out 186 grams / km.

external_image

The desk above illustrates the BPM calculation, and for the high-performance hatch just like the CTR, falling into the class of essentially the most polluting automobiles ends in an enormous monetary dedication. Purchasing a CTR incurs an preliminary price of €13,655, with a further €549 charged for each gram above the 161 g/km threshold. Given that the feisty Honda emits an additional 25 g/km past this restrict, the overall BPM quantities to €13,725. When you issue within the beforehand talked about mounted price, the cumulative BPM reaches €27,380.

Including all these extra prices ends in a beginning worth of €88,560 within the Netherlands, equal to almost $97,000 at present trade charges. This is greater than double the worth of a CTR with out choices within the United States. If you go for extras such because the Championship White paint, Carbon Pack, and the Illumination Pack, the worth can go as much as as a lot as €95,060 (nearly $104,000).

But the CTR is not the one ludicrously costly sporty four-banger within the nation. The Volkswagen Golf GTI begins at €60,990 ($66,600) and the Golf R retails from €84,990.

Increasingly stringent emissions laws aren’t the one purpose why large-displacement engines are dying in EU nations. These excessive taxes on gas-guzzling automobiles – even these with 2.0-liter engines – are placing one other nail within the ICE’s coffin. This is why automakers are aggressively selling plug-in hybrids and EVs.

News

Meet your new favorite motorsport: pick-up truck racing

You can inform which engine a pick-up is working by its grille.

A season prices round £20,000 (fortunately the pick-ups’ sides lend themselves effectively to sponsorship).

The pick-up is further (round £25,000), however there’s sturdy demand, so if a workforce quits, it may be bought on.

Howard made the pick-ups – round 40 of them – years in the past and gained’t construct any extra. Just a few have been written off, however most are nonetheless going. 

Mechanics swap a rear axle on a pick-up racer

All the drivers look helpful and some boast spectacular CVs.

They embody former BTCC driver Matt Simpson, 2009 World Banger Racing champion Paul Tompkins (helpful if the bumping will get critical) and Mark Willis, a Eurocars veteran who says his rivals are critically underrated and reckons the sequence is essentially the most professionally run of all of them. Past entrants embody BTCC luminaries similar to Paul Radisich.

The first two races are 20 laps, whereas the ultimate is 25.

To hold the racing tight, the positions of the highest six finishers are reversed for the following race, which ends up in shut racing by means of the sphere.

Tailgating supplies what the drivers name a ‘bump draught’, helpful for pulling you alongside. Nip out to overhaul, although, and also you threat a ‘side draught’ which, they are saying, is like hitting the brakes.

News

VW software program developer Cariad cuts prices to keep away from lay-offs

Volkswagen Group’s embattled Cariad software program unit has agreed to chop growth prices in an effort to keep away from mass lay-offs, based on reviews.

Cariad boss and former Bentley manufacturing head Peter Bosch had needed to chop as much as 20% of the unit’s 6500-strong workforce, based on an October report from Germany’s Manager Magazine.

However, the brand new settlement between administration and labour unions will allow Cariad to chop 20% of its prices yearly by 2028, Bloomberg reported, citing a Cariad spokesperson.

Cariad has struggled in its mission to ship a unified software program platform to be used throughout all Volkswagen Group manufacturers as a part of the group’s mission to digitise autos.

Featured

Price Hike Incoming For Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, And Others In 2024

Rising enter and operational prices have been cited as the rationale for the worth hike

As the yr 2023 involves a detailed, a number of automotive manufacturers together with Maruti, Hyundai and Tata have introduced a value hike for his or her fashions, efficient January 2024. Let’s take a more in-depth have a look at what these carmakers must say in regards to the impending value will increase.

Maruti Suzuki

Maruti Wagon R Front

Towards the tip of November 2023, Maruti had introduced that it will likely be initiating a value hike throughout each of its Arena and Nexa choices, efficient 2024. As per the automaker, rising commodity costs and general inflation have resulted in elevated enter prices, thereby resulting in the worth increment. That stated, Maruti is but to announce the quantum of the worth hike.

Maruti’s present lineup contains a complete of 17 fashions, together with each Arena and Nexa choices. Their costs vary from Rs 3.99 lakh for the Maruti Alto K10 to Rs 28.42 lakh for the Maruti Invicto.

Hyundai

Hyundai Exter

Hyundai has confirmed that it’s going to enhance the costs of its automobiles from January 2024 resulting from rising enter prices, opposed change charges, and growing commodity costs.

Hyundai’s present India lineup contains 13 fashions, together with two EVs: the Kona EV and Ioniq 5. In India, Hyundai’s vary is priced between Rs 5.84 lakh and Rs 45.95 lakh.

Also Check Out: Hyundai, Mahindra And Volkswagen India Offer Support For Cyclone-affected Vehicle Owners In Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Tata

Tata Nexon 2023

Tata Motors has additionally introduced its determination to boost the costs of its fashions, together with all its ICE (inside combustion engine) and EV (electrical automobile) choices, from January 2024. The Indian marque is but to announce the model-wise quantum of the worth hike.

Tata’s present lineup of automobiles embrace 10 fashions, which additionally contains 3 EVs: Tata Tiago EV, Tata Tigor EV, and Tata Nexon EV. Tata’s lineup begins with the Tiago, which begins at Rs 5.60 lakh, and is topped off by the Safari, which prices as much as Rs 27.34 lakh.

Mahindra

Mahindra Scorpio N

Mahindra fashions, together with the all-electric XUV400 EV, are set to grow to be costlier from January 2024. Like different producers, Mahindra attributes the worth hike to rising enter prices as a significant component. The quantum of value hike will fluctuate relying on the mannequin chosen. Mahindra at present retails 8 SUVs and 1 MPV in India. The Mahindra XUV300 is probably the most reasonably priced Mahindra SUV, beginning at Rs 7.99 lakh.  Meanwhile, the costs for its range-topping SUV, the Mahindra XUV700, go as much as Rs 26.57 lakh.

Honda

Honda Elevate

Honda may also enhance the costs of its fashions, together with the not too long ago launched Honda Elevate. The particulars of the worth hike, particular to every mannequin, can be introduced later. Honda has additionally cited rising enter prices as the rationale for the rise. 

Honda’s present India lineup contains three fashions: the Honda City (each in petrol and hybrid), Honda Amaze, and Honda Elevate. Honda’s India lineup begins from the Amaze, which is priced from Rs 7.10 lakh, and goes as much as the Honda City Hybrid, which has a most value of Rs 20.39 lakh.

Audi

The luxurious automaker Audi can be set to extend the costs of all its automobiles, efficient from January 2024. The predominant causes cited for this determination are the rising enter and operational prices.

In India, Audi retails a complete of 15 fashions, 4 of that are EVs. The Audi A4 is probably the most reasonably priced Audi available in the market, priced at Rs 43.85 lakh. The Audi RS Q8 is the carmaker’s flagship mannequin in India, priced at Rs 2.22 crore.

 

Other automakers resembling Renault, Nissan, Kia, and Jeep haven’t introduced any value hikes but, however they’re anticipated to comply with the go well with within the coming days.

Featured

Skoda Kushaq Elegance Edition Arrives At Dealerships


The limited-run Elegance edition of the compact SUV costs Rs 20,000 more than its corresponding regular variant

Skoda Kushaq Elegance Edition

  • The Elegance edition of the Skoda Kushaq is limited to the top-spec Style variant.

  • It can only be had with the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine which makes 150 PS and 250 Nm.

  • This special edition of the compact SUV gets a Deep-black exterior shade.

  • For the Elegance edition, customers will have to shell out Rs 20,000 more over the regular corresponding variant of the SUV.

The Skoda Kushaq has got the Elegance edition recently along with the Slavia, featuring a Deep-black exterior paint option and a few add-ons inside and out. Now, the special edition units of the Kushaq have arrived at dealerships. Let’s see how this special edition of the compact SUV looks in real life pictures and what it has to offer.

Exterior & Interior Add-ons

Apart from the distinctive Deep-black exterior shade, the Elegance edition of the Kushaq comes with a special kit that includes chrome treatment on the front grille and body side moulding, an ‘Elegance’ badge on the B-pillar, and 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels. Inside, it features Elegance branding on seat belt covers, neck rests, cushions, and the steering wheel. This edition of the compact SUV also includes puddle lamps with ‘Skoda’ illumination and aluminum-finished pedals.

Please note that all these add-ons are part of the accessory kit that will be installed on your vehicle by the dealership during delivery.

Also Check Out: All The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Buying A New Car At The End Of A Calendar Year

Features Onboard

Since the Elegance edition of the Skoda Kushaq is based on the top-spec Style variant, it comes with features such as a a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an 8-inch digital driver’s display, ventilated and powered front seats and illuminated footwell. The passenger safety is ensured by up to 6 airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), hill-hold assist, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Also Check Out: 5 door Mahindra Thar Spied Again, Looks Ready To Enter Production

Powertrains

Skoda Kushaq Engine

The Elegance edition is only limited to the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine (150 PS / 250Nm), mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT). The regular variants of the SUV also get the option of a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine (115 PS / 178 Nm) paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed torque converter.

Price & Rivals

The Elegance edition of the Skoda Kushaq carries a premium of Rs 20,000, i.e., it costs between Rs 18.31 lakh and Rs 19.51 lakh (ex-showroom pan India). It takes on the likes of Volkswagen Taigun, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, MG Astor, Honda Elevate, and Citroen C3 Aircross.

Read More on : Skoda Kushaq on road price

News

Electric car insurance costs surge by 72% due to repair challenges

Companies like John Lewis mention that their underwriter is evaluating the risks and expenses related to EVs. Earlier this year, Aviva temporarily stopped issuing new policies for the Tesla Model Y, the current top-selling EV in the UK. 

Recently, there have been reports in the national media about the high cost of EV insurance. Some drivers claim they were quoted premiums as high as £4500, while others say their renewals doubled or even tripled. However, upon closer examination, many of these drivers admit to having accident claims and speeding penalties. They also found far cheaper cover by shopping around, although it was still more expensive than what they paid the year before. 

Will the premium increases continue?

Despite insurers’ concerns about the rising number of EVs on the roads, Kelly predicts that this trend will actually help reduce the cost of insuring such cars. 

“As more second-hand EVs enter the market at lower prices, their insurance premiums will decrease,” he said. Fry also mentioned that the growing number of EVs will provide repairers with confidence to invest in EV repairs. 

“As we see more EVs in the market, I expect to see more repairers investing in the necessary equipment and skilled staff to repair them,” he said, “which will help resolve the current challenges.

What happened when we looked deeper

Seeking to gain a clearer understanding of EV insurance costs, we obtained quotes for four used EVs for a 63-year-old individual with eight years’ no-claims bonus and a clean license, living in Surrey. 

Approximately 50 insurers provided comprehensive quotes through comparison provider Go Compare, ranging from £454 on a Smart EQ Forfour to £4887 on a Tesla Model Y. Within this range, each EV received a wide range of quotes, as shown on the right. 

While recognizing that EV insurance is more expensive than cover for an equivalent petrol or diesel car, the exercise at least highlighted the importance of shopping around. It also revealed that insurers claiming to be EV-friendly can be among the priciest, while Admiral was often among the cheapest insurers.

News

Toyota SUV Model Lineup Ranked By Reliability

In today’s increasingly expensive vehicle ownership landscape, where fuel prices are on the rise and budget-friendly cars are becoming harder to come by, reliability is a key factor when considering a new car purchase. Toyota has been a leader in producing long-lasting, cost-effective vehicles for many years.

The SUV market has been rapidly expanding, and Toyota has taken advantage of this growth. The company has expanded its SUV lineup and continues to refine its offerings with a focus on long-term value. Whether you need a rugged off-road vehicle or a family-friendly daily driver, Toyota has a range of options to meet your needs, with even better offerings on the horizon.

We have conducted an in-depth analysis of Toyota’s lineup of ICE SUVs to determine their reliability from best to worst. Our rankings are based on feedback from experts and previous owners to assess which Toyota SUVs are the most durable and what potential problems they may present over their lifespan.

Related: 10 Japanese Cars That Get You Luxury And Reliability On The Cheap

In creating this article, we have cross-referenced information for vehicle reliability, maintenance, and pricing from sources such as J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, RepairPal, CarEdge, and Consumer Reports to provide the most current and accurate information available. Please note that we have ranked the following 2023 models based on reliability, from most reliable to least reliable.

1 Toyota Corolla Cross

Reliability Score: 90/100

2023 Toyota Corolla Cross action shot
Toyota

If you’re a fan of the traditional Toyota Corolla, the Corolla Cross is an excellent option. It provides a larger, more practical version of the Corolla, offering a budget-friendly and reliable vehicle with minimal maintenance challenges over its lifespan. While it may lack excitement, it comes equipped with a wide range of driver assistance and safety features, a great infotainment display, and excellent fuel economy. There is some debate about whether the cheaper Corolla Cross is a better buy than the RAV4.

Reliability

As the Corolla Cross is relatively new, there is limited data available. However, it shares many components with the standard Corolla, known for its exceptional reliability. The Corolla Cross has received above-average reliability ratings within the Toyota SUV lineup and offers cost-effective ownership and repair. Its combination of fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs makes it one of the most budget-friendly SUVs on the market, with a starting MSRP of under $25,000.

  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $362 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $4,087 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 3
  • Worst Corolla Cross Year To Buy Used: 2023 (103 complaints on the NHTSA website related to electrical system faults)

2 Toyota RAV4

Reliability Score: 85/100

2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XSE front 3/4 exterior shot
Toyota

The Toyota RAV4 offers higher levels of capability, interior space, and a generally enhanced driving experience compared to the Corolla Cross. While the current fifth-generation RAV4 may not exhibit the ruggedness of its predecessors, it remains an excellent choice, especially for off-road enthusiasts.

Reliability

The Toyota RAV4 has historically been a top choice for compact crossover enthusiasts. While the current generation has not fully lived up to the reputation of its predecessors, it remains a durable vehicle with few major reported issues over the last three years, according to Car Complaints. Despite facing some challenges in keeping pace with the evolving crossover standards, the RAV4 has received few complaints and minimal recalls, with minor issues reported by owners such as cabin noise and voice assistant difficulties.

  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $429 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,531 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 41
  • Worst RAV4 Year To Buy Used: 2019 (Common transmission and brake issues in this model year)

3 Toyota 4Runner

Reliability Score: 80/100

A parked 2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD pro
Toyota

The Toyota 4Runner holds a special place in the hearts of off-road enthusiasts, known for its ruggedness and reliability since its introduction in the mid-80s.

Reliability

The 4Runner may not offer the same level of comfort or features as its counterparts, but its strong reputation for reliability, particularly off-road, sets it apart. While it may not match the reliability of other Toyota SUVs on this list, it remains a reliable choice, especially for off-road enthusiasts. Although it has received three complaints on Car Complaints since the 2020 model year, purchasing a used 4Runner provides a cost-effective off-road option with low ownership and maintenance costs.

  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $514 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,825 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 36
  • Worst 4Runner Year To Buy Used: 2003 (Interior and head gasket issues)

4 Toyota Highlander

Reliability Score: 80/100

2023 Toyota Highlander
Toyota

The Toyota Highlander has been a core part of Toyota’s SUV lineup since the early 2000s. While previous iterations offered a wide range of trims to accommodate different buyers, the current generation aims to provide a more focused approach with the introduction of a standalone Grand Highlander model featuring three rows of seating.

Reliability

The Toyota Highlander has had a mixed history in terms of reliability, but recent years have shown improvement. Complaints on platforms like Car Complaints have decreased, and the model has been well received by critics. With a strong value proposition, high resale value estimated by CarEdge, and a lower chance of major repairs compared to competitors in the segment, the newer models have had minimal recalls and positive reliability ratings.

  • Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $489 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $5,771 (CarEdge)
  • Total Recalls: 41
  • Worst Highlander Year To Buy Used: 2008 (Numerous owner complaints regarding engine failures)

Related: The 2024 Grand Highlander Trim That Hits The Sweet Spot

5 Toyota Sequoia

Reliability Score: 75/100

Front action shot of the 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro tackling a climb
Toyota

The Toyota Sequoia, a full-size SUV that has been available since the 200