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The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Proves the Sedan Still Has a Place

The SUV’s dramatic rise in popularity makes it easy to forget about the sedan’s continued significance. Sedan sales are down dramatically in 2019, but ruling out the segment’s importance remains short-sighted.

Hyundai gets it. Over the past few years, the manufacturer has expanded their lineup of SUVs to include Venue, Kona, Tucson, NEXO, Santa Fe variants and the Palisade. We’ve spent time with most of them and have found the build quality, performance and styling to be excellent. However, in the rush to fill out the SUV segment the Korean manufacturer has not forsaken their sedans. In the words of Albert Biermann, president and head of R&D Division, Hyundai Motor Group, “The Sonata (sedan) holds a special significance for our company as one of the longest-standing and most successful models in the global market.”

Spending a few days in Arizona with the all-new 2020 Sonata provided us with plenty of evidence that Hyundai’s strategy includes building attractive and tech-filled four-door midsize family cars. Add excellent fuel economy, one of the best warranties available and a MSRP that won’t break the bank, and it is hard to ignore the latest Sonata’s value.

The all-new 2020 model features Hyundai’s “sensuous sportiness” design language. To our eyes the styling of the four-door coupe is sleek and attractive. Sitting lower, but longer and wider than the outgoing model, it isn’t hard to consider the Sonata a sports sedan. The long hood and short rear deck lid, with integrated spoiler, are taken straight from the sports car lexicon.

Centered around a dashboard that was inspired by the stealth bomber’s wing, the interior design is simple and elegant. Seating is comfortable and the infotainment system continues to be one of the best in the industry. Rear passengers will find the new C pillar’s design robs a little space from the door’s opening, but once inside headroom is excellent and three adults will fit comfortably.

Sonata’s sporty look is more than skin deep. Hyundai’s new sedan is the first model to be based on the manufacturer’s new platform. According to Hyundai, the new architecture is lighter and stronger than the outgoing model. The changes result in better comfort, performance and safety.

The base SE model gains as much as three miles per gallon over the outgoing model. The 2020 Sonata SE, with the 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four cylinder engine, is rated at 32 mpg combined.

The base engine is complemented by a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine found in the higher trim models. The engine provides less horsepower, 180 versus 191, but has an advantage in torque. Thanks to a wide powerband that kicks in the sedan’s full 195 pound-feet of torque at a mere 1500 rpms, the turbocharged Sonata’s acceleration is immediate and feels consistent at almost every speed.

Both powerplants favor fuel economy as the key performance feature over acceleration. That said, the Sonata has plenty of power for the majority of owners shopping for an attractive family sedan. Handling is excellent. The sedan’s braking and steering is immediately familiar and welcome. Powered by either engine, the 2020 Sonata is a capable vehicle.

Driving enthusiasts will want to wait for the yet to be released Sonata N Line. The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 290 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. We were able to take a pre-production version of the N Line for a spirited drive along a twisty Arizona. While we can’t make an in depth assessment based on our limited time behind the wheel, we can report that the car is fast, fun and surprising in the best ways.

Hyundai’s new Sonata is filled with plenty of standard and optional technology features. Standard active safety includes forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist and advanced Smart cruise control with stop and go. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included in all models.

Hyundai has also developed a smartphone “key” that allows the driver to operate the vehicle without a traditional key fob. The Limited’s key fob includes a remote control function for starting the car and driving it into narrow parking spaces from outside the vehicle.

Pricing for the 2020 Hyundai Sonata starts at $23,400 for the base SE. The top line Limited costs $33,300. Pricing does not include a $930 delivery. SE and SEL models are equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The SEL Plus and Limited arrive with the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.

This review also appeared in The Florida Times-Union.

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The Attractive 2020 Nissan Altima Stands out in the Mid Size Sedan Segment

Ruthless. A fitting word to describe the competition in the mid-size family sedan marketplace. Juggernauts from Toyota and Honda continually take top sales numbers with their respective Camry and Accord. KIA and Hyundai fight for consumer dollars with the Optima and Sonata. Everyone of them is a great vehicle, all are worthy of consideration.

Last year, Nissan redesigned their entry into the mid-size family sedan segment. The resultant all-new Altima deserves a place right along the top contenders. With attractive styling, a comfortable amenity-filled cabin, advanced safety tech and a pair of capable engines and transmission, the new Altima shines.

Powered by the base 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, with is rated at 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque and a CVT transmission, the base Altima offers excellent fuel economy with up to 28/39 city/highway mpg.

Consumers living in colder climates will appreciate the addition of all-wheel-drive, which is available on all trim levels equipped with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. The “intelligent” all-wheel-drive system automatically detects road conditions and redistributes power to the front wheels accordingly.

The turbocharged Altima is powered by a 2-liter turbocharged inline4 that makes 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The smaller, but more powerful engine helps make the Altima a better enthusiast’s choice, although the CVT transmission tends to remind the driver that the Altima is also a gas sipper. The turbocharged SR and Platinum FWD models are rated at 25/34 city/highway mpg.

On the road the Altima is a compliant vehicle that does what you ask of it. Daily commuting ticks by without incident and weekend family outings are comfortable. The standard 8-way adjustable drivers seat makes finding a comfortable driving position easy. Nissan’s “zero-gravity” seats are some of the most comfortable in the segment.

Rear passengers are given plenty of legroom. While we wouldn’t want to plan a cross-country road trip for 5 grownups, three adults will find the rear seats accommodating for short trips around town. The trunk’s 15.43 cubic feet of cargo space is in line with the segment, besting Camry (15.1) but sitting below Accord (16.7).

The five 2020 Altima Trims Levels at a Glance:

S, SR, SV, SL and Platinum

Front-wheel-drive is standard. Models with the 2.5-liter engine and are available with all-wheel drive. Altima SR and Platinum grades are available with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.

Altima S includes standard Automatic Emergency Braking, Intelligent Driver Alertness, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Rear View Monitor, NissanConnect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 7-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display, Remote Engine Start, 12-volt DC power outlet, four front/rear USB charge ports (Type-A and Type-C), 8-way power driver’s seat, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, Rear Door Alert and more.

Altima SR adds 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, unique rear diffuser color, sport suspension (FWD only), sport interior with sport seat, paddle shifters, leather-appointed steering wheel, LED projector headlights, dark chrome grille, Nissan Safety Shield 360, exhaust finishers, black side mirror caps and body colored door handles.

Altima SV includes a moonroof, LED fog lights, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, ProPILOT Assist, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Rear Automatic Braking (RAB), heated outside mirrors with LED turn signals, 2-way power lumbar support, High Beam Assist (HBA), rear console HVAC vents and Dual Zone Auto Climate Control.

Altima SL adds a Bose premium sound system with nine speakers, NissanConnect with Navigation and Services, Traffic Sign Recognition, leather-appointed seats and 4-way power passenger seat.

Altima Platinum includes 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Intelligent Around View Monitor, interior accent lighting, and driver memory seat and mirrors function.

Pricing for the 2020 Nissan Altima starts at $24,300 plus fees.

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Bold and Attractive 2020 Lincoln Navigator Sets the Luxury SUV Standard

All images courtesy of Lincoln

Big bold and beautiful, the 2020 Lincoln navigator redefines the American luxury SUV. While the argument could always be made that the Navigator was fantastic, nothing compares to the stunning design and overwhelming luxury of the latest iteration of Lincoln’s full-size masterpiece.

The spacious, well appointed interior provides plenty of room for seven or eight passengers. The front seats are almost infinitely adjustable and second two rows are spacious and provide adequate legroom. All things considered, the 2020 Navigator could take the “Family Cross-Country Adventure vehicle” award.

The Navigator is available in four different trim levels: Premiere, Select, Reserve and Black Label. Lincoln offers an extended wheel base in select trims. Rear-wheel drive is standard and four-wheel drive is available.

Lincoln’s Navigator features bold exterior styling.  The SUV’s oversized front grille is framed by premium LED lighting. A straight beltline separates the SUV’s windows from the large doors and bright chrome trim shines throughout.

The base Navigator includes 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, running lights and fog lights.  All trims feature a capless fuel filler, hands-free power liftgate, dual exhaust and active grille shutters.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator’s interior sets a new standard for family comfort. The nicely-appointed cabin features leather upholstery and plush carpets. Front seats are highly adjustable, heated and ventilated (optionally). Second row seating includes two heated captain’s chairs and a center console or an optional three passenger bench seat. While not as spacious as the first two rows, third-row bench seats are power reclining and work well for two adults.

Lincoln’s Navigator provides 19.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats and 57.5 and 103.3 cubic feet behind the second and first rows. Those numbers increase to 34.3/73.3/120.2 cubic feet in the extended wheelbase L models.

A 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivers 450 horsepower and 513 pound-feet of torque. That powerful V6 sends power to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, four-wheel drive optional. Lincoln’s towing package means the great looking SUV can pull up to 8,700 pounds.

Fuel economy in the 4×4 models is rated at 16/21 mpg city/highway. Rear-wheel drive models see a modest bump at an EPA-estimated 16/23 mpg city/highway.

Lincoln’s powerful engine and smooth shifting transmission help make the massive SUV feel light on its feet. Sure, the suspension is tuned for comfort, but the Navigator feels ready and handles everyday city driving with ease.  Lincoln’s optional surround-view camera and parking sensors help make parking and maneuvering in small areas less stressful.

The 2020 Navigator features a WiFi hot spot, push-button start and remote start. The base infotainment system features a 10-inch touchscreen display, 14-speaker audio, Bluetooth, USB ports, satellite radio and navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Audio are also included.

The 2020 Navigator now brings more signature features and standard technology to luxury clients.

The Navigator includes a long list of active safety equipment include:

  • a standard rearview camera
  • forward and reverse sensing systems
  • blind spot monitors with cross traffic alert
  • rain sensing wipers.

Additional active safety technology includes

  • intelligent cruise control
  • forward collision warning
  • distance control alert
  • blind spot monitors
  • backup collision warning
  • backup collision intervention
  • lane departure warning and prevention

The 2020 Navigator starts at $75,825.

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The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT R is a Rolling Masterpiece

All images by author.

With 577 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, the 4-liter BiTurbo V8 Mercedes-AMG GT R is an enthusiast’s dream. AMG’s rear-wheel-drive engineering marvel is an absolute blast to drive and equally impressive to look at.  As one observer noted, “that car looks like it is going 100 miles per hour sitting still.”

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT R is beautiful inside and out with an ergonomic interior that fits well with the luxurious Mercedes brand. From the stunning center console to the purposeful steering wheel, the aviation-inspired interior matches the GT R’s exterior step for step. The leather seats are comfortable and supportive and offer an almost infinite level of adjustability.

Cargo space is impressive considering the nature of the car. The 5.8 cubic-foot trunk is tiny, but the space works well for trips to the grocery store or stowing a single carry-on bag.

AMG has gone to extensive lengths to reduce the vehicle’s weight and assure a performance-enhancing rear-biased weight distribution. To aid in this quest. the seven-speed dual-clutch rear-mounted transmission is linked to the engine by means of a carbon-fiber driveshaft. The vehicle’s exotic styling is complemented by the use of exotic build materials.

Acceleration is dramatic. Zero to sixty clicks by in 3.5 seconds. The dual-clutch automatic transmission makes lightning-fast shifts through the transmission’s seven gears. The entire vehicle is designed for performance. Notable engineering standouts include a dry-sump lubrication system that replaces the traditional oil pan with a remote oil reservoir and the turbocharger configuration that shortens the intake’s air path for more immediate throttle response.

Fuel economy is rated at 15/2o city/highway mpg.

Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, says it well, “Our sports-car and performance brand AMG has its roots in motorsport and, ever since its formation, has repeatedly faced up to the competition on the racetrack. These genes are particularly prevalent in the new AMG GT R. Boasting a wealth of technological innovations, the new top-of-the-range model is proof of the close collaboration between our constructors of racing cars and road-going vehicles.”

The 2020 Mercedes AMG GT R Roadster will be limited to 750 vehicles. Pricing starts at $185, 750.

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2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Continues to Impress

Recently we spent a week with the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, America’s first and only hybrid minivan. We were impressed with the efficient and powerful powerplant and the vehicle’s family-friendly packaging. Chrysler recently sent us the 2020 model, which features an update grille, some new appearance packages and a few minor updates inside.

2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Courtesy of FCA.

The last review talked about the historical significance of Chrysler’s minivan. Creators of the industry first vehicle that combined the ease of driving a car with the family-friendly convenience of a truck-based van, Chrysler has sold more than 14.6 million minivans since 1983, a number that equates to twice as many as any other manufacturer.

2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Courtesy of FCA.

The Pacifica Hybrid fills the “minivan hybrid” spot for Americans. Between that exclusivity and the fact that it is a great minivan, it is the fourth best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) from the 30 PHEVs available in the market, and the #1 seller among the 20 vehicles that offer PHEV as an option.

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan equipped with Waymo’s fully self-driving technology. Courtesy of FCA.

Powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine and Chrysler’s an dual-motor eFlite electrically variable transmission the 2020 Pacifica Hybrid achieves more than 80 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) in electric-only mode. The minivan has an all-electric range of more than 30 miles. Allow the batteries to fully charge and with a full tank of gas the hybrid is capable of traveling more than 500 miles before you need more fuel.

2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid cutaway. Courtesy of FCA.

With more than 100 available safety and security features, the Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system, exclusive Stow ‘n Go seating and storage, available 4G Wi-Fi and an array of comfort and convenience technologies, the Chrysler Pacifica is a no-compromise minivan ideally suited for today’s families.

2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Courtesy of FCA.

New for 2020:

New Red S Appearance Package on Pacifica Limited features:

  • Rodèo Red Nappa leather seats with Light Diesel Grey stitching and piping, Silver Metal Brush hydro bezels on instrument panel and door trim
  • Red S liftgate badge and Black Noise Chrysler wing badges with Velvet Red insert and Gloss Black exterior finishes
  • 18-inch wheels with a Black Noise finish, Advanced SafetyTec, 20-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio and KeySense
  • Uconnect Theater and tri-pane panoramic sunroof
  • Red S Appearance available in six exterior paint colors – Ceramic Grey Clear Coat (new), Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Granite Crystal Metallic Coat, Billet Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat and Maximum Steel Clear Coat

Honeycomb grille pattern now comes standard on Pacifica Hybrid models

New interior design elements include available Ceramic Grey Clear paint color and new Nova Black bezels on instrument panel and door trim

Pacifica Hybrid Touring model adds a standard universal garage door opener, second-row sunshades and an available Stow ‘n Place roof rack

Pacifica Hybrid Limited now features second-row, one-touch windows

The 2020 Chrylser Pacifica Hybrid starts at $39,995.

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The 2020 Nissan Armada Offers Premium on a Budget

The attractively-styled 2020 Nissan Armada features a powerful V8 engine and a luxurious interior with seating for eight. Introduced for the 2017 model year, the second-generation Armada provides a premium experience for a price well below comparable premium full-size SUVs.

Nissan’s Armada uses body-on-frame construction that provides off-road capabilities and the towing capacity of a pickup truck, up to 8,500 lbs. The construction also gives the Armada a strong presence on the road. Nissan’s 5.6-liter V8 engine produces 390 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. The giant V8 is quite welcome in a world that seems to be taken over by small displacement turbos All Armada models use a 7-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard and four-wheel-drive is available. Fuel economy is rated up to 14/19 mpg city/highway.

We found that the Armada’s precise steering and well-tuned suspension worked well for daily driving activities and that an extended highway trip confirmed the quiet luxurious nature of the SUV. It is easy to forget that the Armada is not a premium-branded vehicle. The powerful powertrain and refined suspension yield a driving experience that is similar to more expensive vehicles from competing manufacturers.

Armada’s family-friendly interior is spacious, quiet and comfortable. The standard heated front seats are comfortably padded, but could use more by way of support. The ten-way power adjustable driver’s seat and the tilt/telescopic steering wheel make it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Nissan’s use of soft-touch surfaces, attractive design and trim add to the Armada’s premium feel.

The Armada’s second row provides comfortable seating for three adults. The 60/40 folding third row is designed for three, but is better suited for two adults. The Armada provides 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and increases to 49.9 and 95.4 behind the second and third rows respectively.

The Armada’s standard audio system includes an 8-inch touchscreen, 13 speakers, four USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity. The system also includes standard navigation, HD and satellite radio. Nissan’s decision use a premium-branded system and include navigation helps bolster our argument that the Armada is actually a premium/luxury vehicle for a non-premium price.

Which Armada Trim Works for you?

The 2020 Nissan Armada is available in SV, SL, Platinum and Platinum Reserve models with 2WD or 4WD.

Armada SV features 18-inch alloy wheels, a tow-hitch receiver, chrome door handles and contrast painted roof rails, running boards and overfenders.

Armada SL adds Nissan Intelligent Key, Remote Engine Start System, power 60/40 3rd row seat, Intelligent Around View Monitor, power liftgate and 20-inch wheels and tires.

Armada Platinum includes power-sliding moonroof, front climate-controlled seats, a family entertainment system, “Nissan Safety Shield” technologies and the Intelligent Rear View Mirror.

Platinum Reserve adds dark chrome exterior trim, dark grey skid plate and tow hatch cover and two-tone leather-appointed seats, interior trim with unique stitching and 22-inch wheels and tires.

Four option packages are also offered.

The Driver’s Package (SV only) includes fog lights, auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, power 60/40 3rd row seat, power liftgate and trailer towing harness and pre-wire and connector for brake controller.

The Captain’s Chairs Seat Package (SL and Platinum) replaces the 2nd row bench seat with 2nd row Captain’s Chairs and 2nd row center console with padded armrest.

The Premium Package (SL) includes Intelligent Distance Control (I-DC), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Intelligent Back-up Intervention (I-BI) and power sliding moonroof with front tilt and rear slide. And finally, the new 22″ Wheel Package features 22-inch wheels and tires.

Pricing for the 2020 Nissan Armada starts at $47,500 plus fees.

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The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van Delivers Jacksonville’s Cars & Coffee

Hosting a monthly Cars & Coffee event can be a lot of work. From the pre-planning and advertising to the day of the actual event, there are lot of moving parts. With an event the size of Jacksonville’s Cars & Coffee, with 800-1000 vehicles in attendance, setting up requires a lot of equipment.

In February of 2020 our team used the Mercedes-Benz Metris cargo van to haul 100 cones, a couple pop-up tents, boxes of merchandise, banners and signs and more to the Avenues Mall for the early morning cruise-in. The Metris swallowed it all and had plenty of room for more.

Not too big and definitely not too small, the Mercedes-Benz Metris Mid-Size Commercial Van provides incredible cargo capacity for very little money. Matter of fact, the Metris is the least expensive U.S. Mercedes-Benz with a starting price of $28,950.

Our Metris is powered by a fuel efficient 4-cylinder gasoline engine that makes 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and sends power to the rear wheels through a 7-speed automatic transmission. Even though the Metris looks much bigger on the outside, we found the driving dynamics similar to a Mercedes-built minivan, if that existed. Braking was excellent, steering on point and much to our surprise, the suspension felt quite sporty.

View event photos from the February 2020 Jacksonville Cars & Coffee here:

February 2020 Jacksonville Cars and Coffee at the Avenues
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The 2020 Cadillac XT4 Offers Performance and Technology

Compact crossover SUVs are everywhere. From entry-level to high-end luxury there is a compact crossover being built for just about everyone. The compact SUV combines sedan-like handling and performance with utility vehicle practicality. Fuel economy is often on par with smaller hatchbacks or less versatile station wagons.

2020 Cadillac XT4

The 2020 Cadillac CT4 is on the luxury side of today’s compact crossover landscape.  Designed to appeal to younger consumers, both in age or spirit, the CT4 features innovative design inside and out. Cadillac’s “user experience” infotainment intuitively grows and adapts with the user. It wouldn’t be a stretch to call it “smart infotainment” as it leverages cloud-based connectivity to continually update systems with the latest technology. The standard 8-inch touchscreen system includes 4 USB ports, BOSE seven-speaker audio, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Upgraded audio and a wireless charging station are available as options on select models.

2020 Cadillac XT4

One engine sits under the hood of every trim, regardless of the modifier in the name. All Sport, Luxury and Premium Luxury models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline4 that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A smooth, quick-shifting nine-speed automatic is standard. Front wheel drive models are rated at 24/30 city/highway mpg and all-wheel-drive, which is available as an option, yield 22/29 city/highway mpg.

2020 Cadillac XT4

What defines the trim levels is appointments and design elements. XT4 Sport models feature a gloss black mesh V-Series inspired grille, gloss black window moldings and unique alloy wheel choices. Luxury and Premium Luxury models feature extensive brightwork, including grilles with metallic accents, satin aluminum window moldings and satin chrome-accented door handles.

2020 Cadillac XT4

Our review vehicle was the front-wheel-drive XT4 Sport model with front-wheel-drive. The review period fell during a busy time of the year and the XT4 worked hard to transport materials, chauffeur friends and run numerous errands. The fuel efficiency was appreciated as we racked up more than 500 miles on the odometer. While the engine and transmission combination fall short of the “sport” nomenclature, they do work exceptionally well as a spirited daily driver. The XT4’s steering is precise. The suspension is comfortable and braking confident.

2020 Cadillac XT4

New for 2020, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking and forward collision alert and safety alert seat are now standard on all models. Additional standard active safety features include rear park assist and an HD rear vision camera. Optional safety feature highlights include Lange change alert with blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, following distance indicator, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, rear pedestrian alert and more.

The 2020 Cadillac CT4 has a starting price of $36,690 including destination.

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2020 Hyundai Venue Redefines Affordable Subcompact Expectations

We have to wonder how Hyundai continues to find ways to squeeze more value into their vehicles. Each new offering seems to further defy the pricing standards, as they incorporate long lists of active safety equipment and infotainment options into vehicles priced below many competitor’s meagerly-appointed base offerings.

For instance, take the all-new 2020 Hyundai Venue. For an almost unbelievable starting price of $17,350 the 2020 Venue includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as lane-departure warning and an automated emergency braking system. With pricing and options like that Hyundai’s subcompact crossover SUV actually redefines expectations for an “entry-level vehicle.” Further, the low pricing and advanced safety and connectivity features make the Venue an appealing option for parents looking for a first vehicle for a new driver.

The Venue is powered by a 121-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. A standard six-speed manual transmission is standard and a CVT is optional.  The engine provides excellent fuel economy with up to 30 city and 34 highway mpg. For the majority of daily driving, the Venue’s Unfortunately, the engine concedes acceleration for efficiency and highway passing often requires extra planning. The precise steering and sharp handling make the Venue a fun little vehicle around town, but again the Venue feels out of place on the highway at speed. The little SUV seems to wander a bit, requiring a little extra driver effort.

The Venue’s interior shines, especially in light of the price point and subcompact segment classification. Front seat passengers are given plenty of room. The driver will appreciate the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. It is amazing how much those two touchpoints add to the overall driving perceptions. Yes Hyundai cuts corners, for instance the base model has no center armrest, but the overall appearance and comfort of the interior is a step above the base models of many competitors and just about every entry-level vehicle made only a few years ago.

Rear seat passengers will find the accommodations adequate for two adults, three smaller children will also fit comfortably. Venue offers 19 cubic feet of cargo room behind the 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Fold them down and cargo space increases to 32 cubic feet. Both numbers are right in line with subcompact crossover segment expectations.

Hyundai should be proud of their latest crossover, fitting in nicely with the Kona, Tucson, Santa Fe and Palisade. Consumers looking for an affordable subcompact SUV will appreciate the value and high-level of standard features.

The 2020 Hyundai Venue starts at $17,350.

Photos courtesy of Hyundai.

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Retro Styling and All Wheel Drive: The 2020 Fiat 500X

Fiat’s use of heritage marketing has helped bring some lovely cars to the market. The current Fiat 500 is close enough in design to the original that it brings back memories for many. Like the original Fiat 500, the current iteration is a true city car. Yes, the 2020 model is far more capable on the highway, but the vehicle truly shines in urban environments where space is at a premium.

Over the past decade enthusiasts and fans who appreciate the look of the tiny 500 have had new options from Fiat, including the 2020 Fiat 500X. Larger and more practical than the 500, the 500X small crossover not only gives the consumer more seating and cargo space but all-wheel-drive makes Fiat’s little SUV a better choice in less than ideal weather conditions.

Photo Courtesy of FCA

The 2020 Fiat 500X is powered by an all-new 1.3-liter direct-injection turbocharged engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Fiat’s new powerplant features FCA’s MultiAir valve-actuation technology and engine stop-start technology. The tiny engine is surprisingly powerful, rated at 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. That torque number is best-in-class. Thanks to the advanced tuning and a disconnecting rear axle, fuel economy is also noteworthy at 24 city / 30 highway.

Photo Courtesy of FCA

Fans of the 500 will appreciate the Fiat 500X’s incorporation of heritage-influenced styling cues. To our eyes, the 500X does the best job to date of expanding the proportions of the 500 to date. The larger dimensions mean that squeezing five adults into the 500X is possible, if only for short periods of time. The oversized windows and optional dual-pane sunroof enhance the open feeling of the interior, but make no mistake the 500x is definitely a compact vehicle.

Photo Courtesy of FCA

Cargo space is at a premium for a compact crossover SUV, more on par with compact hatchbacks than many of the 500X’s direct competitors. The 14 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats expands to 32 cubic feet when they are folded down, still plenty of room for groceries, backpacks or a couple carry-on bags.

Photo Courtesy of FCA

The 2020 Fiat 500X’s Uconnect 4 infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth audio. Upgrades include navigation and SiriusXM Radio. Those looking for a bit more will want to investigate the 8-speaker and a subwoofer BeatsAudio premium sound system.

Photo Courtesy of FCA

All 500X models come with a standard Rearview camera. Additional available safety features include lane departure warning, front and rear park assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, rain-sensing windshield wipers, blind-spot monitors and rear cross path detection.

The 2020 Fiat 500X starts at $24,590 plus fees.