2018 Kia Sportage: The Affordable Cute Ute

2018 Kia Sportage: The Affordable Cute Ute
by The Car Family
for more reviews go to https://www.motorists.org/car-family-car-reviews/

2018 Sportage

Kia continues to improve its range of offerings and now ranks at the top of surveys for quality with scores surpassing even luxury brands such as Lexus and Porsche. Yes, Kia. Thus we tested the Sportage with this in mind as well as whether it lived up to its sporty name? Spoiler alert, it does. Of course, there is a cost and that is gas mileage. In daily use 20 mpg well probably pop up on the dash readout, but the fun of driving this small SUV makes it worthwhile. The competition is plentiful so pricing is critical. In this case, Kia has placed a significant $36,125 MSRP on our loaded, all wheel drive vehicle. However, the base price for a well equipped Sportage is around $23,000 and lease deals abound. Kia’s advertising motto is “Best value around” and we find that difficult to argue based on price, package, and warranty.

The Sportage has a responsive engine and capable handling making it truly a sporty utility or, more accurately, a compact sports utility offering 60 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down. One caveat, the weight limit for the covering over the spare tire is just 130 pounds so you might want to leave your English Mastiff at home.

Mom’s view, the Sportage is fun to drive, fairly practical, has a low lift-over height, and an available power liftgate. These features contribute to the handy nature of this cute mobile, but just as important is that the interior is the class of the field. It is quite attractive with a cleaner dash, comfortable seating, and first-rate materials. It is apparent that Kia is not content to let a minor exterior change stand in the way of an upgraded interior feel and look.

Coming well equipped, the Sportage offers the must-have blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure and forward-collision warnings, and the ability to apply the brakes automatically if a collision is evident. There are plenty of small storage areas, although I would like a place to put my purse. Overall, the Sportage is a feisty Kia with a touch of class and a strong desire to please regardless of the weather. Easy to park, good visibility, and just enough spunk to make passing and merging worry free.

2018 Sportage

Dad’s view: The Sportage comes in three versions starting with the more basic LX and EX, to the loaded SX Turbo. You can order these models in either front or the Dynamax full time all-wheel-drive system that is a $1500 option. The least expensive way to order the LX trim level with front-wheel drive priced in the low $20,000 range for good shoppers. The fuel economy good for the base models, as the government claims 23 mpg city, 30 highway, and 26 combined on regular. Adding all-wheel drive dampens that number by about ten percent. Under the hood, the Kia offers a choice of 4-cylinder engines. A 181-horsepower 2.4-liter powers LX and EX trim, while the SX Turbo has a turbocharged 2.0-liter with a potent 240 horsepower in front wheel drive mode and a touch less power with all-wheel drive. All models have a smooth shifting 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission.

There was plenty of pep with our SX Turbo test vehicle, but the handling was clearly directed to those wanting a utility vehicle and not a poor man’s Porsche. The brakes were good and the steering neutral, however, I recommend using the sport mode if you want a little more sport in your Sportage, as it keeps the engine on task and more willing to please. The all-wheel-drive system transfers the power from front to back as needed. The SX Turbo also comes with firmer springs, revised dampers, modified steering settings, and a little more ground clearance. Kia has essentially produced a vehicle for the young at heart.

2018 Sportage

Young working man’s view: This Kia comes with CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and the infotainment system is easy to use, but I recommend you consider the optional eight-inch touchscreen as it is very clear and, thankfully, does not wash out in bright sunlight. I found it interesting that the Sportage actually looks sporty.

Young working woman’s view: This Kia is a hoot. It is certainly fun to drive, but more importantly safe. The interior is surprisingly quiet and the SX model has an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. Kia also provides comfortable heated and ventilated seats and an upgraded Harman/Kardon audio system. I am fairly tall and the Sportage was remarkably comfortable for me to enter and leave. All models come with six airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a rearview camera while the EX and Turbo model have blind-spot monitors and rear cross-traffic alerts and automatic emergency braking and lane departure warnings that are optional on Sportage LX and EX versions. There are a variety of optional packages to add more safety, sound, interior and climate features as well as larger wheels, and a panoramic moonroof among other items. Kia is famous for loading its vehicles with value and the extra packages such as the Sport Appearance option that adds heated rear seats among other items.

Family conference: The Sportage is a unique vehicle for those looking for fun with a touch of class and utility. As such it has some trade-offs such as being less fuel efficient in Turbo form. On the other hand, you are going to have a lot more fun with a full tank than the oh, hum, appliance-like competition. Our Sportage SX Turbo was frisky with a fun to drive demeanor and the ability to go gently off-road. It can cuddle you snugly in a plethora of safety devices and the 5-year, 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain coverage is reassuring.

 

Review: Volkswagen Touareg vs. Infiniti QX60

SUVS of a Lesser God: VW vs Infiniti
by The Car Family

For more reviews go to https://www.motorists.org/tag/the-car-family/

Two flagships, both loaded, the VW Touareg and Infiniti QX60 are not your mainstream SUVs and yet each deserves consumer respect with high marks for safety and useability. The major differences between these two stalwarts is that although they are priced similarly they are world’s apart in spirit. The Volkswagen is tough as nails, ready to handle any terrain while the Infiniti is spacious, and smooth. Both test vehicles cost in the mid $50,000 range, but were heavily optioned.

NASHVILLE (Dec. 15, 2016) – Infiniti has comprehensively enhanced its versatile QX60 premium crossover for 2016, introducing a wide range of changes that improve the seven-seater’s exterior design and its driving dynamics, while showcasing new features and technologies that improve comfort, convenience and safety.

The loaded Volkswagen Wolfsburg edition is the more rugged performer, but it is not by any means without its comforts. There is a 7700 pound towing rate, fine interior styling, nice handling despite its height, adaptive cruise control, a rearview camera, a trailer hitch, an 8-inch touchscreen, and more. It does not have a third row seat as the Infiniti does and the engine is not as responsive as its Japanese counterpart. The Volkswagen impressed us with its quiet demeanor while still offering a capable off-road ability that would make it ideal for 909 readers who are tempted by moutain and desert drives as well as the dangers of torrential rainfall.

Infiniti’s QX60 was more luxurious with a smooth ride and a new 3.5 liter V6 that gave us 22 mpg and never lacked for effort, unless you selected the Eco mode which neutralized the performance in the interest of better fuel economy. The Touareg average a bit less, at 20 mpg.

Mom’s view: I would choose the Infiniti if I needed the third row of seats. The interior appointments were lush and the ride more cushioned. The Volkswagen had a more modern interior design and was easier to park, although I loved the QX60’s monitor that displayed an aerial imagery that showed you what was around you.The brakes in the Volkswagen were superb. Both vehicles did well in crash tests, although you need to order the forward collision warning on the Infiniti. The Infiniti’s third row seat is fairly easy for youngsters to access as the second row seats fold down. The Touareg is strictly a two-row, five-passenger SUV, but its rear seat is roomy, with reclining seatbacks and sliding seat travel. There is 64 cubic feet of room with the rear seats down in the VW while larger Infiniti has 76.5 cubic feet. As 909 reader know well traffic is getting worse. Thus I recommend as many safety features as you can afford of which both of these vehicles have an abundance.

Dad’s view: The Volkswagen Touareg comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower driving through an eight-speed automatic transmission to a 4Motion all-wheel drive. It was an enjoyable vehicle, but the engine does let you know when you poke it. On the road it is pleasant even over rough roads. The Infiniti V6 was a bit smoother and stronger with 295 horsepower. It has a continuously variable automatic transmission and our Q also had all-wheel drive. The QX60 V-6 is rated to tow up to 5000 pounds. The Infiniti is all about traveling in luxury and so there is much less road feel in the QX. The seats in both vehicles were excellent with a fairly low step-in height. As similar as these two SUVs are in cost there is no question that the Infiniti is designed for those who like to be coddled whereas the Touareg is a tough customer ready for whatever comes your way.

2016 Infiniti QX60

Young working man’s view: The Infiniti offers an infotainment system and some nice graphics with the always handy buttons to make navigating fairly easy. The telematics can locate the vehicle if it is missing and can even unlock it. If you have teenagers you can set the car up so that it will notify them if they are going to fast or leaving an area you don’t want them to leave. The sound system in both vehicles was satisfactory, but you should consider upgrades. The WolfsburgTouareg offers Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, an 8-inch touchscreen interface, a navigation system, an eight-speaker sound system with HD and satellite radio, and a CD player. Touareg’s infotainment system functions well, however the Infiniti offers more including an available Theater Package.

Young working woman’s view: Standard features are abundant in the Volkswagen such as LED cabin lighting, VW’s Driver Assist package and Park Distance Control, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, HID headlights and rearview camera. Volkswagen also offers an eight-inch touchscreen, a Dynaudio premium audio system, a hands-free power liftgate, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane departure warning, and a Car-Net telematics system which notifies roadside assistance if you need help. On the other hand, Infiniti has HID headlights, a post-collision safety system and a remote anti-theft alarm. Also offered are a Driver Assistance package that includes forward and reverse collision warnings, automatic braking, blind-spot alerts, and Active Trace Control. I found the Infiniti softer and more relaxing to drive. The Volkswagen more eager, but not as comforting.

Family conference. The Infiniti and Volkswagen appeal to those who march to a different drummer. They are competent and durable, but lack the cachet of the mainstream SUVs. To this end the rugged Volkswagen Touareg and Infiniti QX60 offer owners the advantage of owning a unique vehicle that can handle whatever is thrown at them while still proving comfort and safety.

 

2017 Mazda CX-7 Review

Mazda’s CX-9: Seating for Seven
by The Car Family
for more reviews go to https://www.motorists.org/tag/the-car-family/

Mazda, perhaps most renowned for building smaller, agile vehicles, is starting to expand its appeal by offering a new flagship, the seven passenger CX-9. The result is encouraging for SUV buyers as it combines a refined interior, good fuel mileage, and an abundance of safety features. Perhaps the most notable feature is that this well loaded, family oriented vehicle places the emphasis on utility and enhances it with the interior of a luxury vehicle. In fact, if you opt for the Signature edition no one is ever going to know you are not driving around in an upscale European model.

Adding to the uniqueness of the CX-9 is the fact it has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine while most competitors offer a six cylinder alternative. Don’t fret, the Mazda is plenty potent for two lane road passing or freeway merging thanks to its SkyActiv technology and smooth six-speed automatic transmission that keeps everything at peak efficiency. Even better our mpg average was 24 in mixed driving with 27 mpg on a quick trip to San Diego. As an aside, four cylinder engines are becoming the engine of choice as manufactures work to meet ever increasing environmental standards as such lxuru brands as Audi, Lexus, and Cadillac now offer these hard working units to consumers.

Mom’s view: If looks matter, Mazda is going to sell a lot of Mazda CX-9s and the good news is that the beauty of this SUV goes beyond appearances. You can get it with a full range of safety options including blind-spot monitoring, radar-based cruise control, and lane-departure warning that activate the adjustable collision-warning system and uses the automatic emergency braking system to avoid problems. The interior is splendid and feels scrumptious using real rose wood and aluminum accents as well as leather seats, and the exterior is snappy looking as well. This is not your typical SUV appliance. The ergonomics are easy to master and visibility is good, the automatic rear hatch gentle to use, and interior lighting is excellent. Even with the base Sport model you get three zone climate control, rear view camera, and seven-inch monitor with Mazda Connect, Bluetooth, and inputs. The CX-9 height helps eliminate worry when entering or leaving the vehicle and the ancillary controls on the steering wheel can be used easily even with long nails. It took me a while to get used to the accelerator’s need for a gentle touch as I am a bit of a lead foot, but once mastered it was pleasant to drive at any speed.

Dad’s view: The big news is how responsive the new 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder is thanks to some creative engineering to combat turbo lag. Mazda uses three values in the intake manifold that can close to force more pressure into the system creating more power at low rpms. The engineers have also devised a better way to harvest gases from the exhaust to keep the turbo on task consistently. The result is an engine that thrives while producing 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. of torque. The result is plenty of pep, even for mountain driving. You can order an optional all wheel drive, but it was standard on our Signature model. The ride was similar to a much more expensive luxury vehicle and acceleration to 60 mph took around eight second seconds. Touch the accelerator and the CX-9 is ready to play right now with no noticeable turbo lag to hamper its class leading mpg rating. Steering is a bit light, but perfect for tight parking spots, and the overall feel is of a much smaller, lighter on its feet, SUV especially when in sport mode. The CX-9 is impressive, especially when given its pricing and features.

Young working male’s view: There is plenty of standard equipment, but Mazda does offer some interesting options. My suggestion is to go for the loaded versions such as the Signature or Grand Touring models, which feature a power front seat, power liftgate, eight inch monitor, navigation, 12 speaker Bose system, heated front seats and all types of safety equipment. The dash has a variety of analog dials that work well, but when is the most startling is that one of them carries a color LCD screen that can display trip-computer information and a compass. The eight-inch touchscreen in the middle of the dashboard was a long reach, but what I liked was the fact you didn’t have to use it to control functions as there was a large knob located near the console mounted gear shift that helped with imputing data. Mazda isn’t at the cutting edge of electronics, but its meat and potatoes approach should appease all but the most dedicated gadget break.

Young working woman’s view: There are several models of the CX-9 to choice from, but the Grand Touring and Signature are worth the extra cost because of the added features. Mazda’s price range is from just over $32,000 to around $45,000 so do your homework. Inside, the second row has ample room and the seats slide and are foldable so there is easy access to the third row of seats, which are best used for children. Cargo space varies from 14 cubic feet of space to 38 to 71 depending on which seats are folded down. I greatly love the Mazda 6 and find it better looking, better handling then the competition. The same goes for this Mazda.

Family conference: The Mazda CX-9 is enjoyable, useful, and well priced being a significant value over the more expensive seven seat models from Honda and Ford, among others. Just a fun family vehicle with a heaping helping of value over a topping of exceptional styling. It may not go Zoom Zoom so Mazda might change its theme to Room Room.

 

Toyota’s 2016 Hybrids: Prius and RAV4

Toyota’s Top Hybrids: Prius and RAV4
by The Car Family
for more reviews go to https://www.motorists.org/tag/the-car-family/
Toyota RAV 4 and the Prius have provided consumers with a nice combination of utility and frugality with both cars offering room for a young family and exceptional fuel mileage. Both vehicles have a lot in common from pricing, to Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrains to class leading fuel mileage in the over 50 mpg for the Prius and 30 for the RAV. Indeed, if you are after economical travel these two are tough to top.

Prius Tourning

RAV4 Hybrid

Of course, the real reason hybrids are popular is their fuel mileage. However, buyers need to do some math homework with several important variables to consider. First, how much more is the hybrid going to cost over a similar vehicle. The government has a handy site that simplifies this math at fueleconomy.gov.
With that in mind we tested two of the best hybrids from the most successful hybrid company in the world, Toyota. We weren’t disappointed.
Mom’s view: The RAV4 hybrid is easy to drive, park, and use. It can seat five, but is only available in the more expensive trim models. I wasn’t impressed with the RAV’s interior as it just looks and feels dated. I did like the utility tray and storage areas and the easy to use automatic rear hatch. You loose a little cargo area with the hybrid, but still get between 35 to 70 cubic feet of room depending if the rear seat is lowered. Safety wise, the RAV4 top of the line Limited includes antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, full-length airbags, a driver knee airbag, rearview camera, blind-spot warning system and rear cross-traffic alert. An optional Advanced Technology package that includes an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system with a top-down-view parking camera system is also worth considering. We tested the Prius Four Touring model that has a much improved electronics and is loaded with safety features, too, with a blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert and air-bags most everywhere. My only problem with the new Prius was the white, really white, center console, and losing some rear seat leg room due to the placement of the batteries. Otherwise a really great car. My opinion is that the RAV4 is an excellent all-around family vehicle and the Prius, and I hate to write this, a really fun sedan. Both cars have excellent quality scores.

Dad’s view: The RAV 4 hybrid is all wheel drive and is the most fuel efficient vehicle in its class. The ride is excellent and, best of all, aggressive pricing makes it difficult to pass by for bargain hunters. The brakes take a bit to get used to as they are regenerative, but almost all hybrids have a similar feel. The RAV4 has the same system as Lexus NX uses and it shows. This is the best hybrid in its class for cargo and mileage. The ride is smooth and fairly quiet, but can be rough over tax-money deprived roads Driving the hybrid is enjoyable once you get used to the thrust the electric motors provide. All in all the RAV4 is a tidy SUV with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, electric motors front and rear and a continuously variable transmission. The result is 194 horsepower SUV that uses front-wheel drive in normal operation, but automatically engages the electrically driven rear wheels when needed. In other words, a perfect vehicle for readers who want to be prepared for whatever nature throws at them while still being fuel frugal. The Prius is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine aided by a pair of electric motor/generators. Using the console mounted power button maximizes thrust making it easier to pass and merge. In fact, it is addicting. However, the best feature in this new Prius is its improved brakes, suspension and driving dynamics. My choice would be the Prius because it is fun to drive and consistently get 50 plus mpg. With its 11 gallon gas tank full of unleaded a 500 mile trip will cost under $25 and no TSA waiting line.

Young working girls’ view: Neither car is beautiful, but both have an inner beauty and that is reliability. The RAV4 is spacious and honest and doesn’t try to fool you into thinking you are driving a luxury car. I found the Prius too difficult to get into with its lower entry and the unique center gauge placement wasn’t to my taste. The RAV4 hybrid was much easier and, with certain options, was a breeze to park. I would definitely get Toyota Safety Sense that includes collision alert, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, radar cruise control and more. I really liked the intelligent park assist that can be used for both perpendicular and parallel parking especially living in a parking challenged city. The cargo space is very generous and rear seat room was ample. A perfect SUV for a single or young family who love to travel winter or summer.

Young working male’s view: Both hybrids are loaded with electronic choices that make option selections difficult. For example, one package includes larger wheels, parking senors, and heated seats. No substitutions allowed. One thing I would get is Toyota’s Entune with the bigger 7-inch screen, smartphone-connected services,and a navigation. Not the best, but much improved, and make sure you get help with the set-up and tie-in with your cell phone. As much as I liked the vastly improved Prius driveability, the RAV just appealed to me more for its usefulness.

RAV4 Interior

Family conference: Loaded with safety features, both priced similarly, the choice between the RAV 4 and Prius Touring hybrids is basically perception. Are you bold enough to make the Prius your daily driver or does the utility of the RAV4 hold sway. Either way they are unique and family friendly.

 

2016 BMX X1 vs. Lexus NX Hybrid

BMW X1 vs Lexus NX Hybrid
by The Car Family
for more reviews go to https://www.motorists.org/tag/the-car-family/

Family oriented compact utility vehicles are the hottest segment of the industry now with the emphasis on compact. The BMW X1 xDrive 28i and Lexus NX hybrid fit this description well with both falling in the $40,000 plus range when well equipped and offering seating for five. The main difference between the two in terms of driving is that the X1 has a sports car feel to it and the Lexus offers a more cushy ride. The NX gets superior fuel mileage the BMW offers more fun for those miles. One caveat and that the theses two are not as spacious as their big brothers, the BMW X3 and Lexus RX, but cost thousands less.

As vehicle manufactures move to find better ways to meet the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE), four-cylinder are becoming more popular as they offer more efficiency with nearly the same performance. Both of these vehicles have these engines although our Lexus NX was a hybrid with additional electric power that adds nearly $5000 to the price, but has more features as well as averaging nearly 32 miles per gallon in daily driving. What sets them apart is everything else. The Lexus is more refined, quieter, and has a more upscale interior. The BMW is sportier, friskier, and handles better.

Mother’s view: The BMW X1 xDrive28i was more rough and ready. The interior noise was significant with the optional run-flat tires, but it was quite agile and simple to park. The Lexus was a bit more portly, but the interior was nicer. Both cars have nearly identical interior space with the X1 getting a slight nod for room. The BMW X1 comes standard with stability and traction control, airbags nearly everywhere, an emergency communication system and more. Make sure to order such options as frontal collision warning and lane departure warnings among other life saving devises. The Lexus offers similar safety features and has excellent crash safety ratings. My choice would be the NX for its nicer interior although the BMW’s navigation and axillary controls were easier for me to master.

Dad’s view: The BMW X1 comes with a turbocharged, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated at 228 horsepower and uses an eight-speed automatic transmission with a standard all-wheel-drive system. The engine is noisy, but productive and I could get 30 mpg in highway driving. The Lexus hybrid gets even better mileage from its 2.5 liter engine with hybrid boost. There are enough option packages for both vehicles to muddle the differences between wants and needs. I would strongly suggest you do your homework once you have narrowed down your choice as options can quickly add $10,000 to the bottom line. My selection would be the Lexus NX hybrid for daily use, but if you enjoy a vehicle that handles the BMW ranks just below a Porsche in fun per mile.

Working woman’s view: The BMW has some nice standard features such as a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats, driver memory settings, BMW’s iDrive interface with a touchpad controller, 6.5-inch screen, navigation, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, HD radio, CD player and a USB input. The Premium package adds keyless ignition and entry, hands-free control for the power liftgate, adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, power-folding mirrors, four-way power lumbar for the front seats and interior ambient lighting. The Technology package offers BMW’s integrated smartphone apps, navigation and an upgraded 8.8-inch display screen. The NX has similar standard features with a larger display screen and a rearview camera. Lexus options include wireless phone charging, navigation with a touchpad controller, voice recognition, a 10-speaker audio system, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning. You can also add the Lexus Enform Remote that allows you to control certain vehicle functions from your smartphone. My choice is the Lexus NX, but not the hybrid version. I don’t drive enough to justify the additional cost of the hybrid. One kudo for the BMW was its smaller turning radius making it easier to maneuver, a larger cargo area and its maintenance free four years or 50,000 mile program.

Young working man’s view: Both vehicles are loaded with electronic goodies such as the BMW iDrive with an integrated touchpad on the main control that lets you draw number inputs and has to be experienced. Lexus Enform remote is handy. The Lexus is fairly quick off the line when its two electric motors kick-in. Both the BMW’s and NX engines shut down at stop lights or when stuck in traffic to save fuel. The NX’s regenerative brakes can be a bit abrupt whereas the X1’s were excellent. The Lexus NX is very car and handles well and is comfortable. The BMW is just plain fun all the time.

Family conference: These two vehicles offer buyers an interesting choice based on their driving habits. The BMW is athletic and never lets you forget that. The optional run-flat tires provoke a lot of road noise and the energetic engine can be raucous. On the other hand the X1 gets excellent fuel mileage and has superior handling and braking. The NX has a distinctive exterior that may be off-putting and gets exceptional gas mileage and provides a cushy ride. With the new Porsche four-cylinder Macan coming to market priced nearly identical this is going to be an even tougher choice.