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Kia unveiled the updated 2025 Kia K5 at the Chicago Auto Show, committing to keeping Kia in the family sedan market for now. The family sedan has been on the endangered species list for a while now, but the 2025 K5 gets some updates to keep it relevant and kicking. The Kia K5 aims to be the sedan for anyone. Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and performance turbocharged models, the K5 can cover nearly all options in the mid-size family sedan market. For starters, the base 1.6-liter turbo has been swapped out for a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The engine is 11 horsepower more powerful than the outgoing 1.6T and produces 181 lb-ft of torque for the front wheels. This engine is found in the LXS, EX, and GT-Line. Those who chose the GT-Line can also select the option for all-wheel drive. The powertrain for the GT trim remains unchanged. The carryover 2.5-liter turbo produces 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque fed through a front-wheel drive 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. In GT trim, the K5 can scuttle to 60 in just 5.2 seconds on all-season tires. The exterior has been updated with some very striking lightning-bolt-shaped amber daytime running lights that accentuate the leading edge of the front fender. Several new wheel designs are available by trim, and the GT gets bright green brake calipers standard. An updated rear fascia and and dramatic new tail lights round out the package. Inside is a new single-pane curved display with a 12-inch instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment unit. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard on all models. The center console has been revised with a wireless charging pad, USB-C ports front and rear, and new larger cupholders. Tech updates include standard Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist that works at intersections and can detect cyclists. Standard or Available on EX, GT-L, and GT are Navigation-Based Smart Cruise, Highway Driving Assist, Blind View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, Parking Collision Avoidance, and more. Standard on the EX is a Bose Premium Audio system, 10-way power driver's seat, Digital Key 2.0, and a heated steering wheel. The GT can add Digital Key 2.0 in a package group. View full article
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Kia unveiled the updated 2025 Kia K5 at the Chicago Auto Show, committing to keeping Kia in the family sedan market for now. The family sedan has been on the endangered species list for a while now, but the 2025 K5 gets some updates to keep it relevant and kicking. The Kia K5 aims to be the sedan for anyone. Available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and performance turbocharged models, the K5 can cover nearly all options in the mid-size family sedan market. For starters, the base 1.6-liter turbo has been swapped out for a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The engine is 11 horsepower more powerful than the outgoing 1.6T and produces 181 lb-ft of torque for the front wheels. This engine is found in the LXS, EX, and GT-Line. Those who chose the GT-Line can also select the option for all-wheel drive. The powertrain for the GT trim remains unchanged. The carryover 2.5-liter turbo produces 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque fed through a front-wheel drive 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. In GT trim, the K5 can scuttle to 60 in just 5.2 seconds on all-season tires. The exterior has been updated with some very striking lightning-bolt-shaped amber daytime running lights that accentuate the leading edge of the front fender. Several new wheel designs are available by trim, and the GT gets bright green brake calipers standard. An updated rear fascia and and dramatic new tail lights round out the package. Inside is a new single-pane curved display with a 12-inch instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment unit. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard on all models. The center console has been revised with a wireless charging pad, USB-C ports front and rear, and new larger cupholders. Tech updates include standard Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist that works at intersections and can detect cyclists. Standard or Available on EX, GT-L, and GT are Navigation-Based Smart Cruise, Highway Driving Assist, Blind View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, Parking Collision Avoidance, and more. Standard on the EX is a Bose Premium Audio system, 10-way power driver's seat, Digital Key 2.0, and a heated steering wheel. The GT can add Digital Key 2.0 in a package group. -
From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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From the album: 2025 Kia K5 GT
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Ford Recalls Their 1.0-liter EcoBoost Engine for Oil Pressure Issues
Anthony Fongaro posted an article in Ford
It looks like Ford has another recall. This time, Ford's 1.0-liter EcoBoost is in the crosshairs. It's being recalled in various 2018-2022 EcoSport SUVs and 2016-2018 Focus models with the tiny three-cylinder. This engine could suffer a loss of engine oil pressure due to a defect with the oil pump drive belt tensioner. The recall says that the belt tensioner arm may fracture because the retention caulk joint isn't strong enough to withstand engine vibrations. If this happens, the tensioner could separate from the backing plate and cause the belt to degrade by losing teeth. The tensioner could separate from the backing plate and cause the belt to degrade by losing teeth. From this, the engine might lose oil pressure which could damage the engine. If you are driving, there may be a loss of engine and braking, which could to an accident. Ford does know of one crash allegedly similar to this issue with two injuries but no fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened up an investigation into nearly 250,000 EcoSports for reports of alleged engine failure in 2018-2021 models in September. This engine has been under scrutiny since 2022 when NHSTA began the investigation into the Bronco. NHTSA expanded this "catastrophic engine failure probe" in 700,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles. The 2.7-liter and 3.0-liter EcoBoost are found in the Ford Edge, Explorer, and F-150 along with the Lincoln Aviator and Nautilus. Total number of the affected EcoSport and Focus models is 139,790. Last year, Ford remained the automaker with the most recalls at 56, affecting 5.6 million cars. That's less than in 2022, when Ford issued 68 recalls for 8.5 million cars. -
It looks like Ford has another recall. This time, Ford's 1.0-liter EcoBoost is in the crosshairs. It's being recalled in various 2018-2022 EcoSport SUVs and 2016-2018 Focus models with the tiny three-cylinder. This engine could suffer a loss of engine oil pressure due to a defect with the oil pump drive belt tensioner. The recall says that the belt tensioner arm may fracture because the retention caulk joint isn't strong enough to withstand engine vibrations. If this happens, the tensioner could separate from the backing plate and cause the belt to degrade by losing teeth. The tensioner could separate from the backing plate and cause the belt to degrade by losing teeth. From this, the engine might lose oil pressure which could damage the engine. If you are driving, there may be a loss of engine and braking, which could to an accident. Ford does know of one crash allegedly similar to this issue with two injuries but no fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened up an investigation into nearly 250,000 EcoSports for reports of alleged engine failure in 2018-2021 models in September. This engine has been under scrutiny since 2022 when NHSTA began the investigation into the Bronco. NHTSA expanded this "catastrophic engine failure probe" in 700,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles. The 2.7-liter and 3.0-liter EcoBoost are found in the Ford Edge, Explorer, and F-150 along with the Lincoln Aviator and Nautilus. Total number of the affected EcoSport and Focus models is 139,790. Last year, Ford remained the automaker with the most recalls at 56, affecting 5.6 million cars. That's less than in 2022, when Ford issued 68 recalls for 8.5 million cars. View full article
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A vehicle refresh can include updates to technology, slight design changes, and updates to interiors. For 2024, the Acura TLX is back with a few exterior design changes. The most prominent is the front-end with new grille. TLX still uses slim headlights but incorporates a better designed grille. At the side, both the regular TLX and A-Spec TLX come with new 19-inch five-spoke wheels in dark gray. Step-up to the Type S models come with 20-inch black wheels; Type S models can be had with high-performance tires and copper 20-inch wheels. At the rear, A-Spec models get a new diffuser along with rounded exhaust tips. Since the Type S already aggressive styling, the rear remains mostly the same. An optional carbon-fiber spoiler is available for the Type S. Acura has included two new paint colors for the 2024 TLX. The first one is a dark Liquid Carbon Metallic paint for TLX's with the Technology Package. A-Spec and Type S vehicles can be had with Urban Gray paint. Engines remain the same for all models. A 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four comes with the TLX and A-Spec, while the Type S continues with its 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. All get a 10-speed automatic transmission. Interior changes include both a 12.3-inch digital display and infotainment system. TLX now offers Amazon Alexa Built-In, along with a standard wireless phone charger and rear-seat charging ports. A-Spec TLXs come with thicker carpets, better sound-deadening, and acoustic glass. The TLX still comes with a push-button transmission selector and mousepad for the infotainment system. Interior leather includes black and red, although the Type S has a unique Pearly Orchid color. Although changes may look minimal, Acura has raised prices for the 2024 TLX. It now starts at $46,195 for a front-wheel-drive TLX with Technology Package. Last year's TLX without the Technology Package cost $5,000 less but lowers to $950 more with it. A-Spec and Type S models also see a price increase of between $1,000 and $1,250. A-Spec Models cost $51,195 and the Type S costs $58,195. The 2024 Acura TLX will arrive at dealerships at the end of November. View full article
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A vehicle refresh can include updates to technology, slight design changes, and updates to interiors. For 2024, the Acura TLX is back with a few exterior design changes. The most prominent is the front-end with new grille. TLX still uses slim headlights but incorporates a better designed grille. At the side, both the regular TLX and A-Spec TLX come with new 19-inch five-spoke wheels in dark gray. Step-up to the Type S models come with 20-inch black wheels; Type S models can be had with high-performance tires and copper 20-inch wheels. At the rear, A-Spec models get a new diffuser along with rounded exhaust tips. Since the Type S already aggressive styling, the rear remains mostly the same. An optional carbon-fiber spoiler is available for the Type S. Acura has included two new paint colors for the 2024 TLX. The first one is a dark Liquid Carbon Metallic paint for TLX's with the Technology Package. A-Spec and Type S vehicles can be had with Urban Gray paint. Engines remain the same for all models. A 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four comes with the TLX and A-Spec, while the Type S continues with its 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. All get a 10-speed automatic transmission. Interior changes include both a 12.3-inch digital display and infotainment system. TLX now offers Amazon Alexa Built-In, along with a standard wireless phone charger and rear-seat charging ports. A-Spec TLXs come with thicker carpets, better sound-deadening, and acoustic glass. The TLX still comes with a push-button transmission selector and mousepad for the infotainment system. Interior leather includes black and red, although the Type S has a unique Pearly Orchid color. Although changes may look minimal, Acura has raised prices for the 2024 TLX. It now starts at $46,195 for a front-wheel-drive TLX with Technology Package. Last year's TLX without the Technology Package cost $5,000 less but lowers to $950 more with it. A-Spec and Type S models also see a price increase of between $1,000 and $1,250. A-Spec Models cost $51,195 and the Type S costs $58,195. The 2024 Acura TLX will arrive at dealerships at the end of November. -
Opinion: The Family Sedan is now on the Endangered Species List
Drew Dowdell posted an article in Opinion
With yesterday's report that the Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5/Optima may not be replaced at the end of their cycle, it has become clear that the mid-size family sedan in the U.S. has become an endangered species. The current Sonata and K5 are expected to last until at least 2025, but if they do in fact end, the number of mid-size sedans offered in the market will dwindle to 4. For perspective, that is the same number of mini-van models currently on offer. (Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Pacifica/Voyager, Kia Carnival). The remaining sedans are Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, stalwarts in this niche, the Nissan Altima, and the Subaru Legacy. The Chevrolet Malibu, while still listed on the Chevy website has a questionable future as GM stopped taking orders for the Malibu back in February, and while there has been no official announcement, with sales in the mid-30k unit range and mostly going to fleets, we can't expect GM to keep it going for long. For now, the Camry seems safe as Toyota is able to continue to keep sales rates above the 300k unit mark, but sales of the Accord have dropped by 52% from 2014. The Nissan Altima is off by more than 1/3 from volumes just 5 years ago while the Legacy sedan has fallen the most, dropping by 62% since 2016. The first big selling mid-size sedan to get the ax was the Dodge Avenger. Since then the Chrysler 200, Ford Fusion, Volkswagen Passat, Mazda 6, and Buick Regal have all joined the list of dead mid-size sedan lines. The large family sedan class has fared even worse with only the aging Nissan Maxima, Chrysler 300, and Dodge Charger remaining once the Toyota Avalon stops production in August and joins the Chevy Impala, Buick Lacrosse, and Ford Taurus in that great junkyard in the sky. Stellantis has indicated no clear plans to replace their aging sedans and seems to continue producing them mostly out of inertia. The 300 is expect to soldier on for another year with no replacement while the Charger might be replaced in 2024. Once the most common silhouette in the American automotive landscape, the 3-box sedan is rapidly becoming a niche market as buyers flock to crossovers. -
With yesterday's report that the Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5/Optima may not be replaced at the end of their cycle, it has become clear that the mid-size family sedan in the U.S. has become an endangered species. The current Sonata and K5 are expected to last until at least 2025, but if they do in fact end, the number of mid-size sedans offered in the market will dwindle to 4. For perspective, that is the same number of mini-van models currently on offer. (Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Pacifica/Voyager, Kia Carnival). The remaining sedans are Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, stalwarts in this niche, the Nissan Altima, and the Subaru Legacy. The Chevrolet Malibu, while still listed on the Chevy website has a questionable future as GM stopped taking orders for the Malibu back in February, and while there has been no official announcement, with sales in the mid-30k unit range and mostly going to fleets, we can't expect GM to keep it going for long. For now, the Camry seems safe as Toyota is able to continue to keep sales rates above the 300k unit mark, but sales of the Accord have dropped by 52% from 2014. The Nissan Altima is off by more than 1/3 from volumes just 5 years ago while the Legacy sedan has fallen the most, dropping by 62% since 2016. The first big selling mid-size sedan to get the ax was the Dodge Avenger. Since then the Chrysler 200, Ford Fusion, Volkswagen Passat, Mazda 6, and Buick Regal have all joined the list of dead mid-size sedan lines. The large family sedan class has fared even worse with only the aging Nissan Maxima, Chrysler 300, and Dodge Charger remaining once the Toyota Avalon stops production in August and joins the Chevy Impala, Buick Lacrosse, and Ford Taurus in that great junkyard in the sky. Stellantis has indicated no clear plans to replace their aging sedans and seems to continue producing them mostly out of inertia. The 300 is expect to soldier on for another year with no replacement while the Charger might be replaced in 2024. Once the most common silhouette in the American automotive landscape, the 3-box sedan is rapidly becoming a niche market as buyers flock to crossovers. View full article
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Automotive News is reporting that internal sources have indicated that Hyundai will not develop a new generation of the Sonata once the current model run has complete. Similar reports regarding the fate of the Kia K5, the replacement for the Kia Optima, seem to confirm this as both vehicle share a common platform. The current Sonata went on sale in 2019 as a 2020 model while the K5 started production in 2019 in overseas markets and went on sale in the U.S. as a 2021 model. Sales of both sedans has dropped dramatically with the Sonata reaching a peak of around 230,000 U.S, sales in 2012 and the K5/Optima reaching almost 160,000 U.S. sales in 2015. Sales were around 93,000 of each model in 2021, rebounding slightly after the 2020 pandemic. Meanwhile, in its home market the Sonata has fallen from the best selling vehicle to the sixth. Both Hyundai and Kia have issued denials of the impending cancelation stating that both vehicles remain important parts of their respective lineups. Hyundai and Kia are said to be preparing a mild facelift for 2025, however it remains to be seen if the Sonata and K5 make it that far. Hyundai and Kia are busy making room to build more EVs at their plants. Kia, for their part, is building a $5.5 billion EV and battery plant in Georgia starting in 2023 that is expected to have the capacity to produce 300,000 units a year. -
Automotive News is reporting that internal sources have indicated that Hyundai will not develop a new generation of the Sonata once the current model run has complete. Similar reports regarding the fate of the Kia K5, the replacement for the Kia Optima, seem to confirm this as both vehicle share a common platform. The current Sonata went on sale in 2019 as a 2020 model while the K5 started production in 2019 in overseas markets and went on sale in the U.S. as a 2021 model. Sales of both sedans has dropped dramatically with the Sonata reaching a peak of around 230,000 U.S, sales in 2012 and the K5/Optima reaching almost 160,000 U.S. sales in 2015. Sales were around 93,000 of each model in 2021, rebounding slightly after the 2020 pandemic. Meanwhile, in its home market the Sonata has fallen from the best selling vehicle to the sixth. Both Hyundai and Kia have issued denials of the impending cancelation stating that both vehicles remain important parts of their respective lineups. Hyundai and Kia are said to be preparing a mild facelift for 2025, however it remains to be seen if the Sonata and K5 make it that far. Hyundai and Kia are busy making room to build more EVs at their plants. Kia, for their part, is building a $5.5 billion EV and battery plant in Georgia starting in 2023 that is expected to have the capacity to produce 300,000 units a year. View full article
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Audi unveiled a four-door TT concept called the Sportback at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. Taking the overall sleek shape of the coupe, designers stretched the overall length and width to allow for two extra doors and a larger back seat. A new report from Auto Express says the four-door TT is coming and will take the place of the coupe and convertible within the next two years. The reason for the departure of the TT coupe and convertible is due to the diesel emission scandal. Due to the various penalties and fines, the Volkswagen group had to cancel a number of models and projects to save money. The next-generation TT coupe and convertible were likely on the chopping block due to low sales as buyers aren't interested in small sport cars. But Audi was somehow able to make a case to keep the TT as four-door 'coupe'. Auto Express says the design has been approved by management. The report doesn't say where the model will fit into Audi's lineup, but we suspect it will be priced slightly higher than the A3 sedan. View full article
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Audi unveiled a four-door TT concept called the Sportback at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. Taking the overall sleek shape of the coupe, designers stretched the overall length and width to allow for two extra doors and a larger back seat. A new report from Auto Express says the four-door TT is coming and will take the place of the coupe and convertible within the next two years. The reason for the departure of the TT coupe and convertible is due to the diesel emission scandal. Due to the various penalties and fines, the Volkswagen group had to cancel a number of models and projects to save money. The next-generation TT coupe and convertible were likely on the chopping block due to low sales as buyers aren't interested in small sport cars. But Audi was somehow able to make a case to keep the TT as four-door 'coupe'. Auto Express says the design has been approved by management. The report doesn't say where the model will fit into Audi's lineup, but we suspect it will be priced slightly higher than the A3 sedan. -
VinFast Becomes Vietnam's First Global Automaker
William Maley posted an article in Paris Motor Show
A new automaker will be making its global debut next month at the Paris Motor Show. VinFast, Vietnam's first automaker will be showing off a new sedan and SUV. For being their first models, the designs don't look half-baked. This comes down to VinFast reaching out to four major Italian car design houses to give design proposals and then allowing the people of Vietnam to vote for the winner. ItalDesign won the vote, but VinFast selected Pininfarina to do the finishing work. Both the sedan and SUV share a number of design traits such as the chrome V emblem with a set of chrome bars sitting on either side; LED daytime running lights, and faux mesh inserts for the bumper. If you're wondering why the sedan looks like a BMW 5-Series and the SUV like a BMW X5, that's due to VinFast using the last-generation platforms of those respective models. According to Autocar, VinFast has "future-proofed" the platforms to meet all global regulations, including side-impact and pedestrian. Power will come from BMW's 2.0L N20 turbo engines producing either 175 or 220 horsepower. The engines will not have BMW's Valvetronic variable valve timing system. This will be paired with an eight-speed ZF transmission. VinFast will begin a pilot production program at a plant near Hanoi in March, with full-scale production to take place in September. Alongside these two models, VinFast will also produce an electric scooter, a version of the Vauxhall Viva city car, and an electric bus. The company is hoping to export models sometime in the near future, though it is not said which markets the company is considering. Source: VinFast VinFast Honours Vietnam's Proud and Dynamic Beauty Through Creativity and World-Class Design Debut models feature perfectly balanced proportions with a contemporary, timeless design reflecting the Vietnam’s proud and dynamic beauty Distinctive front grille incorporates asymmetric VF motif Sedan and SUV represent the powerful, progressive spirit of a new, energetic and developing Vietnam VinFast makes its global debut with the presentation of two world premiere models at the Paris Motor Show on 2 October 2018 Hanoi, 10 September 2018 – The first two cars from new Vietnamese car company, VinFast, display its philosophy of ‘Vietnamese – Style – Safety – Creativity – Pioneering’ through a world-class design language developed with the world-renowned Pininfarina design team in Italy. The two premium models – a sedan and a SUV – will be given their world premieres at the Paris Motor Show on 2 October 2018. From a starting point of exceptional proportions, designers from VinFast and Pininfarina created timeless cars that each feature a long wheelbase and elegant, truly inspiring styling. A long bonnet, classic trunk and horizontal body lines create a symmetrical, sophisticated and elegant beauty for the premium sedan. The SUV’s more muscular bonnet and bold, purposeful character lines endows it with a more sporty identity, as if it is poised to break free. One specific highlight of the debutant’s design language is prominent at the front of both its new cars. The chrome V emblem at the centre of the grille is confidently and distinctively symmetric. To the right is a horizontal chrome splint that combines with the LED daytime running lights to create an italicised F-motif, representing the second syllable of VinFast, and a unique asymmetric flourish. From the central V emblem radiates the bold and lean crease lines that run over the bonnet, creating a fresh and modern look, reflecting the pride of Vietnam’s first car manufacturer to reach for the world. “The strong, distinguishable design, enhanced by elegant lines and refined details, gives our cars several distinctive highlights,” explains David Lyon, Director of Design at VinFast. “First and foremost, these emanate around the V logo in the grille which references the country of Vietnam, as well as the Vingroup and VinFast brands. In conjunction with Pininfarina, we have carefully sculptured each body line to express the natural beauty of Vietnam and the warm-hearted and dynamic characteristics of its people through a modern and world-class design language.” The proud and energetic styling of the VinFast sedan and SUV are also heavily influenced by the new company’s progressive approach to design. Breaking all traditional car development rules, VinFast gave the people of Vietnam the opportunity to determine the styling direction at the very start of the design process. More than 62,000 people voted when presented with 20 design sketches from four world-renowned Italian car design houses. Starting with ItalDesign’s winning concepts, the cars’ designs have since been developed and completed by Pininfarina. Designed for the Vietnamese people based on a selection made by the Vietnamese people, these debut VinFast models can truly be regarded as national products of Vietnam, embracing the pride and ambition of its citizens. As planned, just a year since the public design vote, VinFast will present the sedan and SUV on the international stage at the Paris Motor Show (press conference: 10.45am* CET on 2 October 2018), before introducing them to the Vietnamese public at the end of the year. With its debut in Paris, VinFast will become Vietnam’s first automotive manufacturer to participate in a major international motor show, signalling the confidence, pioneering approach and global outlook of a new and energetic brand. -
A new automaker will be making its global debut next month at the Paris Motor Show. VinFast, Vietnam's first automaker will be showing off a new sedan and SUV. For being their first models, the designs don't look half-baked. This comes down to VinFast reaching out to four major Italian car design houses to give design proposals and then allowing the people of Vietnam to vote for the winner. ItalDesign won the vote, but VinFast selected Pininfarina to do the finishing work. Both the sedan and SUV share a number of design traits such as the chrome V emblem with a set of chrome bars sitting on either side; LED daytime running lights, and faux mesh inserts for the bumper. If you're wondering why the sedan looks like a BMW 5-Series and the SUV like a BMW X5, that's due to VinFast using the last-generation platforms of those respective models. According to Autocar, VinFast has "future-proofed" the platforms to meet all global regulations, including side-impact and pedestrian. Power will come from BMW's 2.0L N20 turbo engines producing either 175 or 220 horsepower. The engines will not have BMW's Valvetronic variable valve timing system. This will be paired with an eight-speed ZF transmission. VinFast will begin a pilot production program at a plant near Hanoi in March, with full-scale production to take place in September. Alongside these two models, VinFast will also produce an electric scooter, a version of the Vauxhall Viva city car, and an electric bus. The company is hoping to export models sometime in the near future, though it is not said which markets the company is considering. Source: VinFast VinFast Honours Vietnam's Proud and Dynamic Beauty Through Creativity and World-Class Design Debut models feature perfectly balanced proportions with a contemporary, timeless design reflecting the Vietnam’s proud and dynamic beauty Distinctive front grille incorporates asymmetric VF motif Sedan and SUV represent the powerful, progressive spirit of a new, energetic and developing Vietnam VinFast makes its global debut with the presentation of two world premiere models at the Paris Motor Show on 2 October 2018 Hanoi, 10 September 2018 – The first two cars from new Vietnamese car company, VinFast, display its philosophy of ‘Vietnamese – Style – Safety – Creativity – Pioneering’ through a world-class design language developed with the world-renowned Pininfarina design team in Italy. The two premium models – a sedan and a SUV – will be given their world premieres at the Paris Motor Show on 2 October 2018. From a starting point of exceptional proportions, designers from VinFast and Pininfarina created timeless cars that each feature a long wheelbase and elegant, truly inspiring styling. A long bonnet, classic trunk and horizontal body lines create a symmetrical, sophisticated and elegant beauty for the premium sedan. The SUV’s more muscular bonnet and bold, purposeful character lines endows it with a more sporty identity, as if it is poised to break free. One specific highlight of the debutant’s design language is prominent at the front of both its new cars. The chrome V emblem at the centre of the grille is confidently and distinctively symmetric. To the right is a horizontal chrome splint that combines with the LED daytime running lights to create an italicised F-motif, representing the second syllable of VinFast, and a unique asymmetric flourish. From the central V emblem radiates the bold and lean crease lines that run over the bonnet, creating a fresh and modern look, reflecting the pride of Vietnam’s first car manufacturer to reach for the world. “The strong, distinguishable design, enhanced by elegant lines and refined details, gives our cars several distinctive highlights,” explains David Lyon, Director of Design at VinFast. “First and foremost, these emanate around the V logo in the grille which references the country of Vietnam, as well as the Vingroup and VinFast brands. In conjunction with Pininfarina, we have carefully sculptured each body line to express the natural beauty of Vietnam and the warm-hearted and dynamic characteristics of its people through a modern and world-class design language.” The proud and energetic styling of the VinFast sedan and SUV are also heavily influenced by the new company’s progressive approach to design. Breaking all traditional car development rules, VinFast gave the people of Vietnam the opportunity to determine the styling direction at the very start of the design process. More than 62,000 people voted when presented with 20 design sketches from four world-renowned Italian car design houses. Starting with ItalDesign’s winning concepts, the cars’ designs have since been developed and completed by Pininfarina. Designed for the Vietnamese people based on a selection made by the Vietnamese people, these debut VinFast models can truly be regarded as national products of Vietnam, embracing the pride and ambition of its citizens. As planned, just a year since the public design vote, VinFast will present the sedan and SUV on the international stage at the Paris Motor Show (press conference: 10.45am* CET on 2 October 2018), before introducing them to the Vietnamese public at the end of the year. With its debut in Paris, VinFast will become Vietnam’s first automotive manufacturer to participate in a major international motor show, signalling the confidence, pioneering approach and global outlook of a new and energetic brand. View full article
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I found myself in a bit of quandary when it came to writing the review for the 2018 Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio. Both of these models have been redesigned recently and despite the different exteriors, under the skin they share a number of key parts such as the engine and suspension. As I was going through my notes, I realized the answer was right in front of me; talk about the differences between the two and see which one does it better. Exterior Between the two vehicles, the Rio stands out considerably. Like the previous model, the new Rio has a fair amount of European influence with neatly proportioned body and clean lines. The front end is quite low and features a narrow top grille and deep slits in the bumper for a set of fog lights. 15-inch alloy wheels come standard on EX. Unlike the Accent, the Rio is still available in as a hatchback. The Accent goes for the safe approach with a simple three-box sedan design. This isn’t helped by the silver color on my test vehicle which makes it become somewhat anonymous. The only real design traits are in the front with a new grille shape that is appearing on new Hyundai models and cutouts in the bumper for accent trim on our base SE tester or foglights on higher trims. One way the Accent SE stands out from the Rio LX is painted door handles and mirror caps. Interior There are no frills to be found in the Accent’s interior. Like the outside, Hyundai went for a simple and honest design. Material quality is what you expect in the class - hard plastics on most surfaces. But the plastics have a solid feel. All Accents feature basic front seat adjustments - fore/aft, height (driver only), and recline. I was able to find a position that worked for me quite quickly. One item to be aware of is the SE doesn’t come with a telescoping adjustment for the steering wheel; SEL models and above get that feature. Space in the back is average for the class with a decent amount of headroom, but a limited amount of legroom. Kia added some style to the Rio’s interior with a sculpted dash featuring two-tone plastics. Hard plastics make up the majority of interior surfaces with a grain texture pattern. Like the Accent, the plastics have a very solid feel. The layout is simple with most controls in easy reach. Finding a comfortable position took no time with a basic set of seat adjustments and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel. However, I found the seats in the Rio to not be as supportive on long trips. The back seat mirrors the Accent; ok headroom and a small amount of legroom. Infotainment The Rio EX comes with a 7-inch infotainment system with Kia’s UVO infotainment system. No navigation system is offered, but you won’t need it as support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is standard. It will not take long to familiarize yourself with UVO thanks to a well-thought out interface and dedicated buttons for various features. Performance is impressive with the system responding very quickly to inputs. Over at the Accent SE, it comes with a 5-inch touchscreen radio. For the most part, the system was simple to use with redundant buttons for various functions, simple interface, and large touchscreen buttons. I only wished that the screen was slightly larger when I was scrolling through my iPod. One surprise was the SE getting Bluetooth as standard. Kia doesn’t offer Bluetooth on the base Rio LX. Powertrain Both the Accent and Rio use the same 1.6L inline-four engine producing 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque. What differs between the two is the transmission; the Accent SE comes with a six-speed manual while the Rio EX makes do with a six-speed automatic. Between the two, the Accent is noticeably quicker. The manual transmission allows the engine to flex what little muscle it has to get the vehicle up to speed. In the Rio, the automatic’s programming smothers the small amount of power to improve fuel economy. There is a Sport mode that holds onto gears longer, but it doesn’t make much of a difference. Neither of the transmissions can help the 1.6L on the freeway as the engine struggles to get up to speed at a decent rate. Fuel Economy EPA fuel economy figures are almost identical for the two models. Both return 28 mpg in the city and 37 on the highway. The difference is in the combined figure; the Rio returns 32, while the Accent returns 31. I got an average of 34 in the Rio and 33 in the Accent. Ride and Handling There are more similarities between the Rio and Accent when it comes to the driving experience. Both still employ struts in the front and a torsion-beam rear axle. But the body has been stiffened which helps with ride quality. Both models exhibited excellent isolation of most road imperfections. Handling is another place where the two surprised me. While not exhibiting the sporty characteristics of a Ford Fiesta, both the Accent and Rio show little body roll and feel quite nimble. The steering is light, but provides a decent amount of feedback when pushed. Pricing The 2018 Hyundai Accent begins at $14,995 for the base SE with manual transmission and climbs to $18,895 for the Limited. Our test SE with optional floor mats came to an as-tested price of $16,005. While it does cost $1,095 more than the base Rio LX, the Accent SE comes with more features such as Bluetooth, full power accessories, and a rear USB port. The 2018 Kia Rio kicks off at $13,900 for the LX sedan and climbs to $18,700 for the EX hatchback. The EX sedan tester came to an as-tested price of $19,425 with carpeted floor mats and destination. It is a bit hard to stomach the price tag when you can into some decently equipped compact sedans such as the Hyundai Elantra and Chevrolet Cruze for similar money. Even after you factor in the EX getting forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, it’s still a tough sell. Verdict Trying to decide which of the two subcompacts was the winner in this piece was very difficult as they share so much. Beginning with the Rio EX, it is a very sharp looking subcompact with a fair amount of European influence and it is available as a hatchback. But the automatic transmission suffocates what little performance is on offer from the 1.6L engine. Plus the price tag of the EX is very difficult to swallow when you can step up into a compact for similar money. If it was the midlevel S, this would have been a closer fight. This brings us to the Accent SE. It's styling inside and out is a bit plain when pitted against the Rio. The lack of hatchback also makes the Accent a bit of hard sell to some buyers. But the list of standard features on the base model is very surprising. Plus, the manual transmission allows the engine to have some flexibility in most driving situations. Both models are towards the top in the subcompact class. But in this comparison, the base Accent SE nips the top-line Rio EX by a hair. Disclaimer: Hyundai and Kia Provided the Vehicles, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2018 Make: Hyundai Model: Accent Trim: SE Engine: 1.6L DOHC 16-valve GDI Inline-Four Driveline: Six-Speed Manual, Front-wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 130 @ 6,300 Torque @ RPM: 119 @ 4,850 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 28/37/31 Curb Weight: 2,502 lbs Location of Manufacture: Nuevo Leon, Mexico Base Price: $14,995 As Tested Price: $16,005 (Includes $885.00 Destination Charge) Options: Carpeted Floor Mats: $125.00 Year: 2018 Make: Kia Model: Rio Trim: EX Engine: 1.6L 16-valve GDI Inline-Four Driveline: Six-Speed Automatic, Front-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 130 @ 6,300 Torque @ RPM: 119 @ 4,850 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 28/37/32 Curb Weight: 2,714 lbs Location of Manufacture: Pesqueria, NL, Mexico Base Price: $18,400 As Tested Price: $19,425 (Includes $895.00 Destination Charge) Options: Carpeted Floor Mats - $130.00 View full article
