01/18/24 - 2024 Kia EV9: Modern Elegance, All-Electric 🚗, How Many Cars Went For Manuals In 2023 🏭, How Do Hybrid Cars Work? 😄

GM. Rev up your day with the latest automotive news and insights delivered to your inbox in our exclusive newsletter! What we cover in today’s edition:

• 🚗 Car reveal/review: 

  • 2024 Kia EV9: Modern Elegance, All-Electric

  • Jeep Is Reportedly Dropping The V8 Wrangler With A Final Edition

  • Hyundai Kona Electric N Line Has N Looks But No Extra Power

• 🏭 Industry trend: How Many Cars Went For Manuals In 2023

• ⚡ EV: I Visited GM’s Chinese Joint Venture And Saw All The Weird And Wonderful EVs

• 😄 Fun read: How Do Hybrid Cars Work?, Exploring Car Culture Around the Globe

THE 2024 KIA EV9: MODERN REFINEMENT AND ALL-ELECTRIC CAPABILITY (12 mins read)

The 2024 Kia EV9, a three-row EV SUV, offers innovative design, various trims, and battery configurations. It features a distinctive exterior with customizable lighting options. The modern interior includes advanced tech and comfort for all three rows. The connected car system includes over-the-air updates and V2X capabilities. Powertrain options include 76.1-kWh and optional 99.8-kWh batteries with fast charging. With ADAS features and towing capacity, the EV9 sets new standards. Limited availability at Kia dealerships now. Read more.

Jeep Is Reportedly Dropping The V8 Wrangler With A Final Edition (2 mins read)

Jeep plans to discontinue the V8-powered Wrangler Rubicon 392 with a Final Edition in January 2024. Priced at $92,140, it offers a sales challenge for dealers, with allocations based on January 2024 performance. The Final Edition, expected to be on the four-door Unlimited trim, maintains the 6.4-liter Hemi V8's 470 hp and 470 lb-ft torque. Despite its gas-guzzling nature, it accelerates to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Read more.

Hyundai Kona Electric N Line Has N Looks But No Extra Power (2 mins read) 

Hyundai is introducing the sporty N Line trim to the Kona Electric for the first time, focusing on performance styling. The N Line features aggressive bumpers, gloss black mirror caps, 19-inch wheels, and an optional two-tone black roof. Interior enhancements include N Line steering wheel, metal pedals, black headliner, and sports seats. Both base and S models have the same 65 kWh battery and 215 hp electric motor, reaching 62 mph in 7.8 seconds. Prices start at £40,395 ($51,164) for the base model. Read more.

We Asked Every Automaker How Many Customers Went For Manuals In 2023 (11 mins read)

This article surveys the revival of manual transmissions in the U.S. auto market, presenting manual take rates, percentage of car model's sales equipped with a manual transmission, across different brands. Noteworthy figures include Acura Integra at 22%, BMW M2 at 50%, Cadillac CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwing at nearly 50%, Subaru BRZ at 79%, and Toyota GR Corolla with 100% manual sales. The data reflects a diverse range of preferences among enthusiasts amid the broader automotive landscape. Read more.

I Visited GM’s Chinese Joint Venture And Saw All The Weird And Wonderful EVs (17 mins read)

The author discusses the fascinating evolution of China's automotive landscape, spotlighting SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW), a joint venture that has transitioned from enhancing basic vans to pioneering electric vehicles (EVs). From the intriguing Baojun KiWi EV to the beloved Wuling Mini EV, explore the diverse array of vehicles shaping the dynamic world of Chinese car manufacturing. The article also provides details on specifications, costs, and locations of these vehicles in China. Read more.

How Do Hybrid Cars Work? (5 mins read)

This article explores the transformative journey of gas-electric hybrids, transcending their niche origins to become integral powertrain choices for mainstream vehicles like Toyota's Sienna and the upcoming 2025 Camry. Delve into the advantages, intricacies, and diverse types of hybrid technology, from parallel and plug-in hybrids to series hybrids and mild hybrids, providing readers with a comprehensive overview of the evolving eco-friendly automotive landscape. Read more.

Exploring Car Culture Around the Globe (5 mins read)

The article discusses cultures worldwide showcase diverse passions. From American muscle cars symbolizing freedom to Japan's rebellious Bosozoku, each culture adds unique flair. Sweden's Raggare celebrates classic American muscle, while Lowriders, rooted in Latino culture, feature hydraulics for adjustable suspensions. Italian supercars like Ferrari represent artistry, and Finnish Rokkiralli offers budget-friendly ice rally excitement. Explore the rich tapestry of global automotive enthusiasm. Read more.