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The electric vehicle (EV) segment offers no shortage of options to choose from. But what if it’s a luxury EV that you’re after? The good news is that TrueCar has already done the heavy lifting. In fact, it’s even gone so far as to identify the best luxury EVs of 2021.

2021 Tesla Model Y

Tesla Model Y | Zhe Ji/Getty Images

Price: $51,490
Range: 326 miles

TrueCar reports that the 2021 Tesla Model Y is the best luxury EV of 2021. It delivers up to 326 miles of range and comes standard with all-wheel drive. TrueCar added that with so many EV charging stations around, recharging the Tesla Model Y is a breeze.

Those aren’t the only reasons Truecar included the 2021 Tesla Model Y among its picks of the 9 Best Luxury Electric Vehicles. Truecar also highlighted the Tesla Model Y’s standard features, including a 15-inch touchscreen display, premium audio system, and an all-glass roof.

2021 Tesla Model 3

A lineup of Tesla Model 3s, one of the best luxury EVs according to Truecar — Tesla Model 3 | Xinhua/Ding Ting via Getty Images

Price: $39,490
Range: 263 miles

The 2021 Tesla Model Y wasn’t the only Tesla to make the cut. Truecar also included the 2021 Tesla Model 3 in its list. The base model boasts an impressive 263 miles of range, while the long-range model delivers up to 353 miles of range. Those figures are certainly nothing to scoff at.

Truecar isn’t the only one singing the Model 3’s praises either. In fact, Car and Driver included it in its Editors’ Choice List. “The Model 3 is a desirable and relatively affordable all-electric car that has helped the Tesla brand push EVs into the mainstream,” Car and Driver added.

2021 Tesla Model X

A white Tesla Model X — Tesla Model X | VCG/VCG via Getty Images

Price: $89,990
Range: 360 miles

According to Truecar, the 2021 Tesla Model X is a luxury EV that “delivers the versatility and amenities shoppers want in a futuristic package.” Its interior is fairly minimal. However, it does feature a sizeable touchscreen display.

The 2021 Tesla Model X also boasts an estimated range of 360 miles when you opt for the base model and 340 miles of range when you choose the Plaid model. Perhaps the only downside to this luxury EV, Truecar reports, is that it does not offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge

Price: $53,990
Range: 208 miles

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge found itself among the best luxury EVs of 2021 too. This year’s model offers a range of up to 208 miles, which is impressive. A base model will have you spending less than $55,000 too.

Perhaps what’s most enticing about this luxury EV is the many safety features it offers. In fact, standard on all XC40 Recharge models are sought after safety features like automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with a semi-autonomous driving mode.

2021 Audi e-tron

Price: $65,900
Range: 222 miles

The 2021 Audi e-tron marks Audi’s first electric SUV. It boasts a base price of $65,900, along with 222 miles of estimated range. “The all-wheel-drive e-tron brings Audi’s luxury character to the competitive world of electric vehicles, with similar style and sportiness to other Audi SUVs in a cutting-edge package,” Truecar added.

And what a cutting-edge package it is. Not only can this electric SUV sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, but it also features high-quality leather throughout its interior and is available with massaging ventilated front seats. What’s not to like about that?

2021 Tesla Model S

A red Tesla Model S driving — 2021 Tesla Model S | Tesla

Price: $79,990
Range: 390 miles

There’s no beating around the bush here. Truecar also included the 2021 Tesla Model S among its list of the best luxury EVs. According to Truecar, this luxury EV is “packed with technology for maximum passenger enjoyment.”

Truecar isn’t wrong either. In fact, this year’s new Tesla Model S offers high-tech features like a 17-inch cinematic display. It can also be had with popular features such as ventilated front seats and wireless charging.

2020 Jaguar I-PACE

A blue Jaguar I-PACE parked by water — Jaguar I-PACE | Jaguar

Price: $69,850
Range: 234 miles

Now, the Jaguar I-PACE is a 2020 model. However, Truecar did include it among its picks for the best luxury EVs of 2021. Truecar highlighted the vehicle’s fast acceleration and sporty handling. It also recognized the I-PACE for being one of very few EV SUVs on the market.

That being said, the 2020 Jaguar I-PACE is more expensive than some of its competitors. The 2021 Tesla Model Y, for example, is an EV SUV that will only cost you $45,190. It also boasts a better range than the I-PACE.

2021 Porsche Taycan

Porsche Taycan driving, one of the best luxury EVs according to Truecar — 2021 Porsche Taycan | Porsche

Price: $79,900
Range: 225 miles

The 2021 Porsche Taycan is a luxury EV that Truecar says delivers remarkable acceleration. Truecar isn’t wrong either. In fact, Car and Driver found that the Taycan was able to reach 60 mph in just 2.4 seconds in its testing.

Truecar reports that the 2021 Porsche Taycan benefits from fast battery recharging abilities too. And, as part of The Porsche Charging Service, the automaker also gives Taycan owners three years’ free access to several charging networks across the country.

2021 BMW i3

Price: $44,450
Range: 153 miles

Last but certainly not least is the 2021 BMW i3. Truecar reports that among all luxury EVs, the BMW i3 is something of a pioneer. But that’s not the only reason it was included in Truecar’s list. It’s also fun to drive, easy to maneuver, and boasts some pretty unique styling features.

And if 153 miles of estimated range isn’t enough for you? Not to worry, the 2021 BMW i3 is also available with a range extender that boosts its overall range to approximately 200 miles.

Choosing the best luxury EV for your driving needs

Choosing the best luxury EV for satisfying your daily driving needs doesn’t have to be difficult. To get started, we recommend taking a few of Truecar’s favorites out for a test drive. After all, that is the best way to find out if a particular vehicle is a good choice for you.

The post The Best Luxury EVs of 2021 According to TrueCar appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

May 12, 2021/by Gabrielle DeSantis

Kia Sportage, From Crap to Competitor: A History

Motorbiscuit

by Gabrielle DeSantis

No one wants to drive a crappy car. But Kia used to have a reputation for making really cheap vehicles. However, the ones it produces today are completely different. Take, for instance, the Kia Sportage. This compact crossover has gone from crappy to competitive seemingly overnight. Here’s a look at the Sportage‘s amazing transformation and a peek at the 2022 model.

A brief history of the Kia Sportage

The Kia brand debuted in 1973 in South Korea and came to the United States in 1992. Initially, it had a bad reputation for cheaply made cars. The automaker worked hard to improve its quality, eventually winning an award for the most reliable brand from J.D. Power in 2016.

The Kia Sportage debuted in 1995. In its early years, the body-on-frame mini SUV suffered from the same quality and mechanical issues as other early Kia models. The first generation lasted from 1995 through 2002. After a two-year gap, the second generation arrived in 2005, this time with unibody construction. The third generation debuted for the 2011 model year, making this compact crossover “longer, wider, and lower than the second-generation” Sportage, Friendly Kia reports. The current generation came out in 2017, introducing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, more luxury, and better fuel economy.

Kia has made several safety improvements to the Sportage over the years. It added all-wheel ABS and better airbags in 1998. Dual airbags came in the 2000 model. And additional safety features debuted for the 2002 model, the National Automobile Dealers Association reports.

Other notable changes include the 1999 launch of a two-door soft-top Sportage to compete with the Jeep Wrangler. This version was available only in the first generation. In 2006, Kia added a cabin air filter and a tire pressure monitoring system as standard. And USB ports and optional GPS came in 2009.

The best and worst of the Kia Sportage

With the issues that Kia vehicles had in the early years, it’s safest to skip over the first generation of the Sportage. The 2012 Sportage was arguably the worst. This model year suffered from severe engine issues. Problems ranged from engine noises, engine fires, and even engines that stopped while the SUV was in motion. Kia issued engine recalls for 2012 and 2013 Sportage vehicles. In addition to multiple recalls, Kia and Hyundai were involved in a class-action lawsuit over their engines.

Following the Sportage’s redesign, 2018 to 2021 model years have had few complaints reported to CarComplaints.com. Though the fourth generation offers the most features, the third generation is still a good option. From the third generation, 2015 and 2016 models have drawn the fewest complaints.

What we know about the 2022 model so far

Soon, Kia will introduce the all-new 2022 Kia Sportage. The reveal is expected soon, Motor1.com reports. This will be the first year of the fifth generation, and production could begin as early as this June.

Official images and details, too, should be available by early June. According to Motor1.com, it will likely have “quirky styling” and bear the new Kia badge design. Not much else is known yet, but the new Sportage will likely share some parts with the Hyundai Tucson, which was redesigned for the 2022 model year. The new Sportage will likely have gas and diesel engine options, along with an electrified version. And it’s expected to offer front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options.

The Kia Sportage has evolved greatly over the years. Third- and fourth-generation Sportage models are good options for buyers looking for new or used vehicles. The fifth generation is expected soon, though, so some shoppers might want to wait until that model becomes available.

The post Kia Sportage, From Crap to Competitor: A History appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

May 12, 2021/by Gabrielle DeSantis

Don’t Let Range Anxiety Stop You From Buying the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E RWD

Motorbiscuit

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The arrival of the Ford Mustang Mach-E has been rather controversial, but anyone who has stopped to take the new electric SUV for a test drive might feel differently. With the Mach-E, Ford aims to provide the growing market of electric vehicles, as well as the increasing demand for SUVs, with the best option possible. If you’re still nervous about buying an electric vehicle because of range limitations, there is one variation of the 2021 Mustang Mach-E that makes it the perfect vehicle for you.

The electric Ford Mustang Mach-E | David McNew, Getty Images

The 2021 Mustang Mach-E

The 2021 Mustang Mach-E is the brand’s big splash into the world of electric SUVs. It makes the entrance in style, with a base-model MSRP of $42,895, dropping it securely into the reasonable price range of other, already established electric SUVs on the market while still remaining relatively affordable, and that price doesn’t include the potential $7,500 federal tax credit, either, which, according to Ford, the vehicle as applicable for.

A quick scroll through the Ford website shows off impressive but partially deceptive statistics for the car, which you won’t notice unless you look at the fine print. The Mustang Mach-E boasts a peppy acceleration of 0 – 60 mph in 3.5 seconds — if you pick the GT option. It also offers a reasonable range of 305 miles — if you select the Extended Range Battery, RWD option. But what should you actually expect from the SUV?

A close up of the rear end of a blue Mustang Mach-E — The Ford Mustang Mach-E First Edition | Qilai Shen/Bloomberg, Getty Images

The Mach-E Extended-Range RWD

There are several variations of the new Mustang Mach-E that make it a great option for different drivers. If you’re looking for a peppy, sporty driving experience, for example, you might opt for the GT. But, if you’re newer to buying electric vehicles and you’re feeling a bit of range anxiety creeping in, or you just want an SUV that can really go the distance, you might be more interested in the Extended-Range RWD option.

Turns out there are two pretty best friends.#MustangMachE #MachE pic.twitter.com/peqKQqEqFa

— Ford Mustang (@FordMustang) May 3, 2021

California Route 1

The California Route 1 is the official trim level for the Extended-Range RWD version of the 2021 Mustang Mach-E, and it has potential for being the ultimate road-trip machine. While it may not offer the impressive acceleration that the GT has, with a 0 – 60 mph time of 6.1 seconds, and the horsepower figure of 290 hp won’t make you think twice, there is one big benefit of picking the California Route 1.

The 2021 Mustang Mach-E California Route 1 offers a competitive and impressive range of 305 miles. Ford makes it clear that this range is provided on a full charge and can vary slightly in different driving conditions and with different driving styles.

Many drivers and critics may still remain skeptical about the new Mustang Mach-E regardless of any positive reviews, but that isn’t too far fetched from all of the negativity that the more standard Mustang itself receives either.

The post Don’t Let Range Anxiety Stop You From Buying the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E RWD appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

May 12, 2021/by Gabrielle DeSantis

Bristol Cars Returns: New Model Makes Us Wish It Was Dead Again

Motorbiscuit

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Many are hailing the return of Bristol. For those who don’t know Bristol was a British luxury grand touring car manufacturer. It began just after WWII and faded away a couple of years ago. Now a new company has been created and they have previewed their new Bristol Bullet model. After seeing it we wish it was dead again.

Bristol has plans to produce its $700,000 Bullet roadster

Bristol Bullet | Bristol

As one might guess Bristol has ambitious plans which include bringing to market the Bullet roadster. One look at it will tell you the venture is dead before it gets started. The rumored $700,000 roadster is an abomination-especially once you discover the price.

Bristol cars were never exactly good-looking. But they somehow hit a note with certain well-established Brits that kept them in business for a few decades. Today the new owner, Jason Wharton, says Bristol will be a blend of “classic design and modern technology.”

The debut of an all-electric “Bristol Buccaneer” happens in 2025

Bristol Bullet roadster front 3/4 view — Bristol Bullet | Bristol

It sounds like his biggest plan is the debut of an all-electric “Bristol Buccaneer” sometime in 2025. Where the Bullet roadster fits into the picture is unclear. What is clear is that it should pass on the horrendous Bullet.

Wharton said: “I see myself as a long-term investor in this iconic British brand. So part of my role is to take it forward and develop it so it can finally become sustainable as a premium automotive business. Hence our need to move with the times and introduce a fully battery-electric model.”

That all sounds great until you see Bristol’s roadster. Then, you wonder how something like that will make “iconic Bristol” iconic? Supposedly, the Bullet is nothing more than a re-bodied Morgan Aero 8, and that’s not a car to develop any new product around.

Don’t use the Bristol Bullet as any sort of inspiration for designers

Bristol Bullet rear 3/4 view — Bristol Bullet | Bristol

So our advice to Mr. Wharton is to skip the Bullet and move on to something more compelling. And don’t use the Bullet as any sort of inspiration for your designers. Don’t even let them see it.

Bristol was always on thin ice. It was an offshoot of Bristol Aeroplane Company heavily subsidized by the company. That arrangement allowed it to hang around longer than a company that has to rely on good products to survive.

The 2004 Fighter was the last production Bristol

Bristol Bullet hood script | Bristol

But survive it did, until a few years ago when its longtime savior Tony Crook sold his remaining interest in the company. Its last new car was called the “Fighter,” from 2004. It was powered by the Dodge Viper’s V10 engine.

We do wish Bristol well, but can’t imagine it making a business case for the roadster. Besides being highly impractical it is hard to look at without wondering why anyone would shell out $700,000 for one? We know there “is a sucker born every minute” but every sucker still can see.

The post Bristol Cars Returns: New Model Makes Us Wish It Was Dead Again appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

May 12, 2021/by Gabrielle DeSantis

2021 Tesla Model Y

2021 Tesla Model 3

2021 Tesla Model X

2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge

2021 Audi e-tron

2021 Tesla Model S

2020 Jaguar I-PACE

2021 Porsche Taycan

2021 BMW i3

Choosing the best luxury EV for your driving needs

A brief history of the Kia Sportage

The best and worst of the Kia Sportage

What we know about the 2022 model so far

The 2021 Mustang Mach-E

The Mach-E Extended-Range RWD

California Route 1

Bristol has plans to produce its $700,000 Bullet roadster

The debut of an all-electric “Bristol Buccaneer” happens in 2025

Don’t use the Bristol Bullet as any sort of inspiration for designers

The 2004 Fighter was the last production Bristol

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