When riding our bikes in the city, it’s acceptable to dress down in terms of gear, provided that we also temper our riding style. This is especially true if your daily commuter is a cruiser or scooter. Oftentimes, we see scooter and cruiser riders hitting the road in much more laid-back attire. That said, this doesn’t mean that gear manufacturers don’t throw in cutting-edge tech when it comes to safety.
For example, HJC, one of the most popular helmet manufacturers in the world, has just released a new jet helmet specific for city riders. It’s called the V31, and it ties in nicely with the rest of HJC’s new retro-modern range. The V31 is a jet helmet, or a three-quarters helmet that’s ideal for use in the city thanks to its practicality and ease of use. It features retro styling in the form of a rounded shell and drop-down visor, reminiscent of aviation helmets of yesteryear.
Underneath its charming aesthetics, the V31 incorporates thoroughly modern technology. Instead of a basic thermoplastic shell, the V31 employs a fiberglas composite shell offered in three sizes spread across seven helmet sizes. The drop-down visor is adjustabe in three positions, while three snap-buttons on the upper portion of the helmet allow you to install a variety of accessories. Meanwhile, on the back, there’s a strap for you to secure a pair of goggles.
On the inside of the helmet, the classic cues continue. The helmet features a stitched leather and suede interior that’s removable and washable for extra longevity. HJC has thoughtfully included grooves for glasses, making the V31 eyewear compatible. The helmet is secured via a standard Double-D ring buckle, and is compatible with all mainstream helmet communicators. It’s certified under the latest standard: ECE R22.06.
In terms of pricing and availability, the new HJC V31 jet helmet is offered in a wide selection of colorways consisting of black, grey, matte black, white, yellow, red, green. As mentioned earlier, it’s offered in seven sizes ranging from XS to XXL, catering to folks of all shapes and sizes. The helmet is priced at 199.90 Euros, or approximately $218 USD.
Thankfully, the Slingshot has settled in and found its place on the road. Those who buy one end up loving it and the lifestyle they bring. Here are 15 reasons why you should give the Polaris Slingshot a chance.
Updated July 2023: The Polaris Slingshot is an excellent three-wheel bike that deserves as much recognition as possible. So, instead of letting this article get buried in the multitudes of other dead articles online, we have decided to refresh and update it with more information to keep you coming back for more. Enjoy!
There are manual and automatic options, allowing anyone to drive a Slingshot. The manual machines come with a five-speed transmission. The Slingshot can achieve 0-60 in 4.9 seconds from a stop and can reach a top speed of 125 miles per hour. The 1,997cc engine rev limits at 8,500 RPMs. The Slingshot has Brembo aluminum calipers and vented cast iron brake rotors for great stopping power.
14The Slingshot Exudes Practicality
Grendelkhan via Wikimedia Commons
Drivers side aerial view of the interior of a Polaris Slingshot
Riding a motorcycle is fun, but let’s face it, they aren’t always the most practical mode of transportation. There is a serious lack of storage capacity, which leaves you making the hard decisions about what you really need to bring with you. Of course, you could add saddlebags and luggage, but now you are adding bulk and weight. With a Slingshot, you don’t have these problems. There are convenient small compartments throughout to keep essentials readily available. Then, larger compartments behind the seats can easily hold a weekend travel bag. This makes daily traveling or traveling with a Slingshot more practical.
Ride on any motorcycle for long enough, and your body will begin to ache. There is just no getting around it. This is because you are stuck in one position for the entire time. You have one leg on either side of the machine and must stay centered and balanced to stay upright. This isn’t the case with the Polaris Slingshot. Instead, you sit in the machine in a traditional car set with plenty of legroom. This lets you move around and change positions. There is also plenty of support through the back and seat, so your body feels supported.
12The Polaris Slingshot Offers Open Air Riding For All
Polaris
Front view of a group of 2023 Polaris Slingshot SLR 3
There are times in everybody’s life when they can no longer do things they once enjoyed, such as riding motorcycles across the country. The Polaris slingshot can solve that dilemma for many because it is more stable than a two-wheeled vehicle, giving options to those that would generally have no way to drive in the open air other than buying a convertible like the Mustang or BMW that has some power. The three-wheeled Slingshot opens up a new world of options for the disabled or slightly impaired, who typically have to hang up their motorcycle riding gear for good.
11Set Up For Two Like A Car
Polaris
Front and side view of a 2023 Polaris Slingshot S
Almost every motorcycle on the road is set up to offer seating for two, with the driver in the front, and the passenger in the back, sitting directly behind each other. The Polaris Slingshot is not designed in this traditional style of motorcycle style, which sets it apart from its rivals. The Slingshot has two bucket seats set into the cockpit of the vehicle side by side, like a classic sports car. This allows for a more comfortable ride for both occupants and better awareness between the two when on the road.
10Unique Styling
Polaris
Front view of a Polaris Slingshot ROUSH Edition
There is nothing on the road that looks quite like a Polaris Slingshot. They aren’t passenger vehicles, motorcycles, golf carts, or scooters. Despite having three wheels, they don’t have the same setup as a trike. They are more substantial than a Cam Am, with another two in the front three-wheeled vehicle. The unique styling of the Polaris means you are going to turn heads. People will look at it even if you have a standard base model. Start customizing, and be prepared to have people stop, take pictures, and want to talk to you. Even if you see another Polaris on the road, the odds are slim that it will look like yours.
Polaris Slingshot Roush edition in action around the city
The Slingshot is incredibly stable because there are three wheels, and most of the weight is practically sitting on the ground. You would have to try hard to get it to flip over or roll. We are not recommending that you try to do this. However, that stability is beneficial when taking on ultra-curvy or mountain roads. You feel stable and secure as you punch the gas and turn the wheel. In addition, take a walk around the Slingshot and check out that back tire. It is huge! That wide back tire plants the back of the Slingshot and keeps it secure.
8It Delivers Good Fuel Economy
Polaris
Front and side view of a 2023 Polaris Slingshot Roush Edition
Fuel economy is one of the primary reasons for the growing popularity of motorcycles. As fuel prices rise, more and more people are looking for ways to save money while commuting. The Polaris Slingshot gives you impressive fuel economy without committing to riding a motorcycle daily. Polaris claims that you can get between 23 and 33 miles per gallon. The average is about 28 miles per gallon. Of course, your driving habits and fuel quality will determine how good of fuel economy you can get with your Polaris. Polaris recommends that you use 91 octane or higher.
7There Is Ample Technology On The Polaris Slingshot
Not to be left behind, the Slingshot comes with all the technology that you could ever want. Apple CarPlay comes standard on most and is an option you can add on others. There are multiple technology packages to choose from. A basic package includes a seven-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, a backup camera, and a USB port. The more extensive technology package consists of the same display but also gives you the following:
Front side view of a Polaris Slingshot Roush Edition
The amount of aftermarket customization options are virtually endless for the Slingshot. First, there are a ton of colors to choose from. Unlike motorcycles, where you are lucky if there are more than one or two colors, Slingshots come in everything from basic black to neon yellow. Then, once you choose your color, it’s time to select the body design, seats, lights, sound system, and anything else you can think of. The customization process is also approachable, so you don’t have to be a mechanic or have experience turning a wrench to express your personal style. *Check out a local club or meet to get inspired.
5No Dearth Of Safety On The Polaris Slingshot
Grendelkhan via Wikimedia Commons
Drivers side aerial view of the interior of a Polaris Slingshot
Motorcycles are dangerous. Your entire body remains exposed to the elements and traffic around you. This isn’t the case with the Slingshot. Instead, you sit down and in it. A strong, durable metal cage surrounds you, providing significant crash protection. Then, if you opt for the roof, you have a solid cover above you, giving you even more coverage and protection. The Slingshot comes equipped with seatbelts. Years of testing have shown that seatbelts in moving vehicles save lives. Finally, in some states, the Polaris is a motorcycle. This means you must follow motorcycle laws, such as wearing a helmet. Now your face and head are protected in the event of an accident.
4The Slingshot Turns Like A Car
Polaris
Front view of a 2023 Polaris Slingshot S2
The two wheels in front are the most significant difference between the Polaris Slingshot and a standard motorcycle, such as the Honda Rebel or the Kawasaki Ninja. As you can guess, just by looking at the Slingshot, you can see that turning the three-wheeled bike will rely on something other than countersteering, which is how you turn a two-wheeled motorcycle, especially at high speeds. The Polaris Slingshot cannot work on that principle because of the two wheels in front, which is why it was designed with a steering wheel. It turns like a car, so it has a steering wheel like a car to make it easier to control throughout the entire corner.
3The Slingshot Gets Attention Everywhere You Go
Polaris
Front and side view of a group of 2023 Polaris Slingshot SL
One thing that stands out the most when you own a Polaris Slingshot is how much attention you get. When you pull off the road to gas up, it is almost guaranteed that you will be there for at least half an hour or more. Not because it takes that long to fill the gas tank on the bike but because random people will come up to you and ask questions about the Slingshot. Everything from what it is to how it drives, so when you stop, be prepared to become a salesperson because that is part of owning the Polaris Slingshot you simply cannot avoid.
2Driving The Slingshot May Not Require An Endorsement
Polaris
Front and side view of a group of 2023 Polaris Slingshot R
Driving a motorcycle in any state within the country requires that you pass a separate test, other than your basic driving test, to get an endorsement added on to allow you to legally drive a bike. This is not much of a problem if you are a seasoned rider, but when you are first starting out, it can be just as stressful as the first time you had to take the car written and driving test. The Polaris Slingshot falls in between categories in some states, so you may not need a motorcycle endorsement. Check it out before taking your Slingshot for a spin on the roads, though, unless you like playing the odds with the law.
1The Polaris Slingshot Is Rather Affordable
Don’t assume that the Slingshot has a higher price tag than a motorcycle because it is bigger. This simply is not the case. With a starting price of about $21,000, many motorcycles are more expensive. This makes the price reasonable and affordable when considering everything you get for your money. For that same base price, you could buy a Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Triumph Tiger 1200, or an MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso. These are all great bikes, but you get so much more for your money with the Slingshot. Especially if you plan to take trips or travel with your new machine.
The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance 4dr Coupe offers a unique driving experience with its hybrid powertrain. When you start the car, you are greeted with a synthesised electric pulse, indicating that the hybrid system is ready. By default, the car operates quietly in electric mode, only engaging the powerful V8 engine when you select the driving mode.
The car is designed to be versatile, with a wide range of operating modes from Comfort and EL (electric) to Sport+, Race, and Drift. However, while the GT 63 S E Performance offers impressive dynamic capabilities, there are some compromises in its finer details.
At low and medium speeds in Comfort mode, you may notice occasional jerkiness from the gearbox and inconsistent throttle response. There is also a noticeable high-frequency noise coming from the rear-mounted electronics, which can be distracting and unexpected in a luxury GT car.
Switching to Sport or Sport+ mode brings out the expected thunderous sound from the V8 engine, especially with the addition of AMG’s sports exhaust. However, the overall sound of the combustion engine lacks the distinctive character you would expect from an AMG super-saloon.
When it comes to performance, the GT 63 S E Performance exceeds expectations. It accelerates from 0 to 60mph in just 2.9 seconds, 0 to 100mph in 6.6 seconds, and completes the standing quarter-mile in 10.9 seconds. It also impresses with its 30-70mph acceleration time of 2.5 seconds. In comparison to the BMW M5 CS, the GT 63 S E Performance sets new benchmarks.
Under full acceleration, the car feels powerful and responsive, with consistent thrust throughout the rev range. However, it is worth noting that the GT 63 S E Performance relies heavily on its combustion engine, which is highly stressed and lacks the free-revving nature of other AMG models.
In the sportier driving modes, the car has an interesting quirk where it reserves a portion of the electric rear axle’s boost as a “push to pass” feature. This extra power is only accessible by pushing the accelerator pedal beyond its kickdown point. While this may make the driver feel like a Formula 1 star, it adds complexity to the driving experience and can be challenging to manage at the limits on a track.
The Audi TT is widely regarded as an iconic car. When it first debuted in 1999 (2000 for the US), the TT captured attention with its Bauhaus-inspired design, which set it apart from the Volkswagen Golf it was based on. Over time, the TT gained popularity as a sporty coupe, and its performance capabilities became a significant part of its story.
The first generation of the TT included two impressive trim levels. In 2003, Audi introduced a 3.2-liter VR6 engine paired with a groundbreaking dual-clutch DSG transmission. Then, in 2005, the TT Quattro Sport model was introduced, featuring aggressive bodywork and a powerful 240-horsepower version of the regular car’s 1.8-liter turbo four engine (unavailable in the US). Moving on to the second generation, the Audi TT RS made its debut in 2009, boasting a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-five engine generating 350 hp. It offered a six-speed manual and a seven-speed DSG transmission.
In June 2015, Alfa Romeo unveiled the production version of the highly anticipated Giulia. This event marked the start of Alfa Romeo’s plans to reestablish itself as a leading automobile brand. The Giulia was created by a team of talented engineers, designers, and stylists and was the first of eight new models planned for the next three years. However, the only other notable vehicle to follow was the Stelvio in 2017.
Since its introduction in 2016, the Alfa Romeo Giulia has sold approximately 160,000 units in Europe, North America, and certain countries in Asia and the Middle East. Although it did not achieve its ambitious sales targets, the Giulia proved to be a highly competitive sedan.
The Giulia also played a crucial role in Alfa Romeo’s expansion into the North American automotive market. Despite launching a sedan at a time when demand for sedans was declining, Alfa Romeo managed to make an impact in the market.
And Now?
Many people are wondering whether there will be a successor to the Giulia and how quickly Alfa Romeo will continue to expand its lineup. With the decreasing demand for sedans worldwide (except in China), it is unlikely that a new Giulia will maintain the same style as the current model.
Last year, global sales of premium D-segment sedans decreased by 2 percent, with China being the exception with a 5 percent increase. In the US and Canada, sales increased by 1 percent, while in Europe, the third-largest market, sales decreased by 25 percent.
It appears that Alfa Romeo is shifting its focus towards SUVs and crossovers. After the introduction of the Tonale in the second half of 2022, the company plans to launch a smaller SUV to compete with models like the Mini Countryman and Volkswagen T-Roc. SUVs in this size category have proven to be successful for the brand, as the Tonale accounted for 67 percent of Alfa Romeo’s new registrations in Europe between January and May of this year.
The Lessons Learned
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is a fantastic product that showcased cutting-edge engines and a modern platform upon its release. Its eye-catching design stayed true to the brand’s identity without being excessive. Despite its modest commercial success, the Giulia proved to be a strong contender against German sedans.
The Giulia’s underwhelming sales can be seen as an initial test for Alfa Romeo, highlighting the changing preferences of customers in the premium segment. However, it is expected that Alfa Romeo will continue to offer a successor to the Giulia, possibly in a different format.
The author of the article, Felipe Munoz, is an Automotive Industry Specialist at JATO Dynamics.
In 1975, the famous artist Alexander Calder transformed the 3.0 CSL (E9) into BMW’s first Art Car. Now, in 2023, BMW has announced that work has begun on the 20th vehicle to receive this special artistic treatment. Most of the previous Art Cars have been based on race cars, and the upcoming creation is no different, as the canvas for this project is the M Hybrid V8. The talented Ethiopian-born artist Julie Mehretu will have the honor of creating the next official Art Car.
But before that happens, the M Hybrid V8 has been unveiled at the Guggenheim Museum in New York in all its naked glory, without any paint. It is rare to see a race car with a fully exposed carbon fiber body, which makes it even more intriguing, especially considering the distinctive silhouette of BMW’s LMDh contender. This car is already competing in IMSA, where it recently secured its first victory, and it will also participate in the WEC next year, including the iconic Le Mans race. In 2024, BMW’s motorsport division will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the V12 LMR’s triumph at Circuit de la Sarthe.
If you have ever set an alarm on your iPhone and hit the snooze button, you may have noticed that it automatically adds nine minutes to the clock. Whether you want more or less time for your snooze, the iPhone does not provide a way to customize the snooze duration. This default nine-minute limit has been in place since the first alarm clocks with snooze functions, such as the General Electric-Telechron Snooz-Alarm in the 1950s. The nine-minute interval was chosen to accommodate the gear setup already being used by alarm clock makers at that time. Despite advancements in technology, including smartphones, nine minutes is still considered the standard duration for the snooze feature.
When the wilderness is calling, how will you answer? Will you grab one of the best hybrid off-road SUVs and head deep into uncharted territory, or will you stick to light to medium well-traveled paths through the forest? Our list of rugged hybrid SUVs for off-roading gives you options for adventure away from the paved and lined roads we travel every day.
Off-roading doesn’t have to be complicated, provided you have the right vehicle for the job. Some of the best off-road SUVs now come with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains to sip fuel and take you deeper into the wilderness. These SUVs are great for off-roading and can be upgraded to suit your needs with great accessories like winches, steel bumpers, roof racks, and bigger off-road tires for your adventures.
10Jeep Wrangler 4xe: Head Deeper Into the Forest In The Wrangler
Jeep
Front three-quarter shot of the 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Rubicon 20th Anniversary Convertible SUV
The Jeep Wrangler is well-known as one of the best off-road SUVs in the world. In fact, other brands have worked tirelessly to match the Wrangler’s off-road prowess for years. This plug-in hybrid version brings the desired power and capability to your deep wilderness adventures.
Specs and Features
Engine
2.0-liter 4-cylinder PHEV
Engine Output
270 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque
Electric Range
21 miles
Transmission
8-speed automatic
Drivetrain
4WD
Approach Angle
47.4 degrees
Departure Angle
40.4 degrees
Breakover Angle
25.1 degrees
When the call of the wild catches your attention, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the ideal off-road SUV for your fun and adventures. Will you answer that call?
9Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe: This Jeep Hasn’t Met A Trail It Couldn’t Tackle
Jeep/Stellantis
Front profile of Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
If you’re searching for a hardcore off-road SUV but need more cargo room than what the Wrangler provides, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is here to save the day. The Grand Cherokee is renowned for being one of the toughest and most rugged off-roading vehicles. Toss in the hybrid powertrain, and you have a mean green fuel sipper.
Specs and Features
Engine
2.0-liter 4-cylinder PHEV
Engine Output
375 horsepower, 470 lb-ft of torque
Electric Range
26 miles
Transmission
8-speed automatic
Drivetrain
4WD
Approach Angle
25.7 degrees
Departure Angle
27.1 degrees
Breakover Angle
22.8 degrees
With impressive off-road angles and amazing off-road upgrades available as accessories, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe could be the best off-road SUV for your fun away from the boring paved roads.
8Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Your Daily Drive Has An Adventurous Side
Toyota
Front three-quarters driving shot of a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
You might not instantly think of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid as an off-roading SUV, but it certainly can be. Utilizing the AWD drivetrain and respectable off-road angles, this Toyota SUV could take you on some of the most adventurous light and medium trails.
Specs and Features
Engine
2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid
Engine Output
219 horsepower, 163 lb-ft of torque
Electric Range
N/A
Transmission
CVT Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD
Approach Angle
19 degrees
Departure Angle
21 degrees
Breakover Angle
N/A
Whether you’re looking for an easy way to get to a remote lake or want to ensure you have the right equipment for foul weather, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is up to the task. This reliable, rugged, and useful SUV is made to meet most of your driving needs.
7Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: Standard AWD And A Flat Engine
Subaru
Front and side angle shot of Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid trailing off road
The secret sauce in the Crosstrek’s off-road success is the combination of the flat engine and standard AWD. While one of the smallest SUVs on our list, the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is worthy of being considered one of the best off-road SUVs in the market today.
Specs and Features
Engine
2.0-liter flat 4-cylinder PHEV
Engine Output
148 horsepower, 134 lb-ft of torque
Electric Range
17 miles
Transmission
CVT Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD
Approach Angle
18 degrees
Departure Angle
30.1 degrees
Breakover Angle
N/A
If you spend most of your time in the city but want to go off-roading on the weekends, this little Subaru could be exactly what you’re looking for. Drive for a few miles on electric power and let the off-road angles and low center of gravity provide the desired stability while out on the trails.
6Land Rover Range Rover: Legacy Off-Roading With a Hybrid Twist
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The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover P530 First Edition driving through the woods.
Land Rover is the name mentioned in the same breath as Jeep when discussing which SUVs are great for off-roading. The Range Rover sits at the top of the Land Rover lineup with an impressive hybrid powertrain and excellent off-road specs.
Specs and Features
Engine
3.0-liter supercharged and turbocharged 6-cylinder hybrid
Engine Output
395 horsepower, 406 lb-ft of torque
Electric Range
N/A
Transmission
8-speed automatic
Drivetrain
4WD
Approach Angle
34.7 degrees
Departure Angle
29.6 degrees
Breakover Angle
28.0 degrees
Some off-road upgrades are available for the Land Rover Range Rover, but you might want to see how it performs in the wilderness before adding to it. This hybrid SUV has proven itself repeatedly on some of the most grueling trails in the world.
5Land Rover Discovery: A Smaller Land Rover With Impressive Off-Road Capabilities
Land Rover
A shot of a 2021 Land Rover Discovery driving off-road
If you’re looking for one of the best off-road SUVs, finding the Discovery could end your search. Typically, if the Land Rover name is on the vehicle, it’s a safe bet that you’ll enjoy off-roading with it. The Discovery is smaller than the Range Rover, making it more agile and drivable on tighter trails.
Specs and Features
Engine
3.0-liter 6-cylinder mild-hybrid
Engine Output
335 horsepower, 369 lb-ft of torque
Electric Range
N/A
Transmission
8-speed automatic
Drivetrain
4WD
Approach Angle
29 degrees
Departure Angle
28 degrees
Breakover Angle
27.5 degrees
Could the Land Rover Discovery be the right hybrid of-road SUV for your off-roading adventures? It certainly has the stats to give you a fighting chance against any wilderness trail.
4Toyota Sequoia: This Big Toyota Brings Power To The Trails
Toyota
A front-angle shot of a pearl-white 2023 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid descending downhill.
Whoever said bigger isn’t better? The latest Toyota Sequoia includes three rows of comfortable seats, an upscale cabin, and an excellent hybrid powertrain. This brute is also one of the most capable SUVs, making it perfect for off-roading adventures.
Specs and Features
Engine
3.4-liter 6-cylinder hybrid
Engine Output
437 horsepower, 583 lb-ft of torque
Electric Range
N/A
Transmission
10-speed automatic
Drivetrain
AWD
Approach Angle
23 degrees
Departure Angle
20 degrees
Breakover Angle
N/A
If you’re considering off-road upgrades for the Toyota Sequoia, a roof rack, larger tires, and a winch could all be useful when you take this hybrid SUV onto the trails.
3Kia Sportage: This Small Kia Might Surprise You While Off-Roading
Kia
An outdoor rear 3/4 shot of a 2023 Kia Sportage X-Pro
Most shoppers considering the Kia Sportage don’t think of it as one of the best off-road SUVs, but this hybrid Sportage could surprise you. It’s not made for the rugged trails that a Jeep or Land Rover might tackle, but it could get you to your favorite fishing spot.
2Ford Explorer Hybrid: Does This Ford Off-Road SUV Live Up To Its Name?
Ford
A gray Explorer in the dirt
With a name like Explorer, you would think this would be the most rugged and adventurous off-road SUV on our list. Although that’s not the case, the Ford Explorer hybrid is still one of the best SUVs for off-roading on most light and medium trails.
Specs and Features
Engine
2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder mild-hybrid
Engine Output
300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque
Electric Range
N/A
Transmission
10-speed automatic
Drivetrain
4WD
Approach Angle
23.5 degrees
Departure Angle
23.7 degrees
Breakover Angle
17.1 degrees
In addition to the off-roading capabilities of this SUV, the Explorer can be a smooth and easy vehicle to drive and enjoy on any road. This makes it a great option for the adventurous soul that can only get to the wilderness once in a while.
1Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid: Unexpected Off-Road Capabilities
Hyundai
Front end action shot of a Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
Can the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid actually handle your time on the trails? It can if you stick to the light trails. The shallow off-road angles make this hybrid SUV better for some paved paths and flat ground, but it can still get you to your campsite or next to the trailhead.
Specs and Features
Engine
1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder PHEV
Engine Output
261 horsepower, 195 lb-ft of torque
Electric Range
31 miles
Transmission
6-speed automatic
Drivetrain
AWD
Approach Angle
16.7 degrees
Departure Angle
20.2 degrees
Breakover Angle
N/A
You’re probably not considering the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid as an off-roading vehicle when shopping for it, but it can fit plenty of gear and take a small family to most campgrounds around the country.
FAQ
Q: What SUVs are good for off-roading?
SUVs with a wide stance, high ground clearance, and either 4WD or AWD are good for off-roading. Adding bigger tires, lift kits, and off-road accessories improves the off-road performance of an SUV.
Q: Do I need 4WD for off-roading?
It’s possible to tackle some light trails using a 2WD vehicle, but 4WD sends power to all four wheels, giving an SUV a much better chance of crossing a muddy lakebed or rocky trail. If you get stuck in snow or sand, your vehicle has a better chance of getting unstuck when equipped with 4WD or AWD.
Q: Is AWD good for off-roading?
A vehicle equipped with AWD is much better when given the option between 2WD and AWD for off-roading. Still, if you want the most capability on the trails, the right choice is an SUV or truck equipped with 4WD.
Porsche France recently teased a new variant of the 911 on social media, leading some to believe it might be the highly anticipated heritage-inspired ST model. However, the actual release is the 911 Carrera GTS Le Mans Centenary Edition, which pays homage to past Porsche models by incorporating design elements from the 356 SL and 911 GT1. This special edition celebrates 100 years of endurance racing since the inaugural event held on May 26-27, 1923.
Exclusive to France, the retro-styled 911 Carrera GTS will only have 72 units available for purchase. This number signifies the 72 years of Porsche’s continuous presence at the renowned 24-hour endurance race. Buyers can choose between a seven-speed manual gearbox or an eight-speed PDK transmission, and each car comes equipped with an extensive list of standard features. The price for this exclusive model is €237,819, which is approximately $259,600 based on current exchange rates.
NFL running back Leonard Fournette had a frightening experience when his car caught fire. Fournette was driving his Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat on I-275 in Tampa when the fire started. He was able to pull over and exit the vehicle safely, but the Durango was severely damaged.
The Florida Highway Patrol determined that the fire was caused by a mechanical issue with the Dodge Durango and was not the result of a crash or accident. Fournette shared a video of the incident on his Instagram account, expressing gratitude that he escaped unharmed, captioning it, “Man it was one of those days today, but I would like thank God, my car caught on fire while I was driving, But I’am still blessed.”
Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat
The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat is the most powerful stock gasoline-powered SUV in the world. It can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 180 mph. Production of the Durango SRT Hellcat was limited to 3,000 units in 2021, but it resumed this year.
Recall Notices
Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge, recently issued recalls for fire risks on some of its other vehicles, such as the Ram diesel and the Jeep Cherokee. However, the Dodge Durango, including the Durango SRT Hellcat, has never been subjected to a recall for a fire risk.
Leonard Fournette
Leonard Fournette was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in March of this year. During his time with the Buccaneers, he played in three seasons and started 25 of 43 regular season games. He scored 17 rushing touchdowns and played a significant role in the team’s victory in Super Bowl LV, rushing for 89 yards and a touchdown.
Other Cars Owned by Fournette
In addition to his Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, Leonard Fournette also owns a Polestar 1, which he shared on his Instagram account with the caption “@polestar cars are made for stars.”
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