Hyundai Snags Disney to Drive ‘Unprecedented’ 2022 Tucson Debut

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The entertainment juggernaut Disney needs no introduction, but have you seen its car endorsements? It partnered with Honda to promote the 2021 Odyssey, a worthy family hauler for any theme park trip. But not to be left out, rival Hyundai has also teamed up with Disney to promote the 2022 Tucson.

Hyundai calls the partnership “unforgettable.” The Tucson was already an excellent compact SUV, but its bold redesign boosts its appeal even more. How does Disney plan to showcase the 2022 Tucson?

Disney’s new ad spots for the 2022 Hyundai Tucson

2022 Hyundai Tucson | Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai and Disney’s new campaign, “Question Everything,” launched during the premiere of The Bachelorette on June 7. Twelve TV ads for the campaign feature various actors from Disney properties asking thought-provoking (and often amusing) questions. In addition to reality stars, the campaign’s commercial showcases talent from Marvel series like Loki and WandaVision on Disney+.

Hyundai says Disney is the perfect match for the new Tucson because of the industry giant’s “unprecedented” marketing strategies. Hyundai hopes that these ads will inspire engagement and enthusiasm in the same way as all of Disney’s programming. You can also catch these ads on various streaming platforms, and new commercials are in development.

All about the 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson gets a new base engine: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 hp. That makes the new model more powerful than the standard and optional engines on the outgoing Tucson. The six-speed automatic transmission also gets upgraded to an eight-speed.

According to Car and Driver, two turbo-fours will be available for the Tucson hybrid and plug-in hybrid. These models get a shorter six-speed automatic transmission, but at least all-wheel drive comes standard. Despite having more horsepower, the Tucson still feels a little lacking in potency, C/D reports. 

However, testers still praised the nice ride and easy handling. Its fuel economy also gets a considerable boost this year, up to 26/33 mpg city/highway. The hybrid gets 38 mpg both on the highway and in the city. We don’t know how efficient the PHEV model will be, but Hyundai claims it can get 32 miles of electric range.

The 2022 Tucson also got a much-needed interior overhaul, with more upscale materials and a stylish modern design. It can still seat only five riders, but backseat passengers now have even more room to relax. Even the cloth upholstery feels supportive for long drives, and every seat can recline.

The Tucson’s cargo bay is also bigger for 2022, with almost 39 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats.

And at the center stack, there’s a new eight-inch touchscreen with updated graphics. Drivers can also opt for the larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, paired with a digital gauge cluster of the same size.

However, some drivers might not like the touch-sensitive climate controls replacing the physical ones with the standard touchscreen. Other optional features include ambient interior lighting, more USB ports, and a Bose sound system. Regardless of trim level, every 2022 Tucson gets smartphone integration and plentiful safety features.

When can you buy the new crossover?

As of June 29, you should be able to find the 2022 Hyundai Tucson at a local dealership. The base trim starts at $24,950, while a Limited with AWD costs $36,100. The entry-level Tucson Hybrid Blue retails for $29,050, and the top-trim Limited starts at $37,350.

The PHEV and N-Line models are expected to join the lineup later this year. Hyundai hasn’t revealed pricing for the PHEV, but the N-Line will retail for $30,600. With all its strengths, the refreshed Tucson has the potential to be a consumer favorite, especially with its Disney endorsement.

RELATED: How Many Miles Will a Hyundai Tucson Last?

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Your Dream Car Probably Costs Way More Than You Think

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Your dream car depends on what you like best. That could be performance, design, or even a brand. Many dream cars carry hefty price tags. But as you navigate the car buying process, you might find that your pick has even higher hidden ownership costs than you had imagined. In fact, maintenance and repair costs for some models can add up quickly.

The hidden costs of car ownership

The McLaren F1 costs about $30,000 a year to own | McLaren Automotive Limited

After saving up, you might finally be able to buy your dream car. Purchasing a used model can save money. But don’t be surprised to find that high-end cars also have higher ownership costs. Owners will pay extra for regular maintenance, repairs, and specialty parts, AutoInfluence reports.

A Reddit thread also points to the higher costs for tires. If the car has larger or wider wheels in the back than in the front, the tires can’t be rotated. The car might also need winter and summer tires if all-season versions aren’t available. These staggered set-up tires also have shorter warranties.

Dream cars with high ownership costs

Some cars stand out for their high ownership costs. The McLaren F1 costs about $30,000 to maintain each year. Oil changes cost a whopping $8,000, and a new pair of tires run about $3,000. This dream car even has to be sent back to the factory in the United Kingdom for some service, AutoInfluence reports.

A Porsche Carrera GT costs a lot to service because the service technician must own special equipment. An oil change costs about $3,000, although it’s needed only every 15,000 miles. Having the brakes fully replaced on this dream car costs about $30,000.

The Bentley Continental GT costs about $3,200 to maintain each year. That includes $500 for oil changes each year.

The Aston Martin DB9’s annual maintenance costs are $1,200 to $2,600, and an oil change costs around $400.

The Mercedes S65 AMG and CL65 AMG require specialty parts. They’re reliable cars, but they cost about $500 to $1,000 to maintain every year.

Even lower-priced luxury cars can be expensive to maintain. Consumer Reports recently looked at 10-year-old 2011 models and found that the BMW 5 Series costs about $1,200 to maintain each year. The BMW 3 Series costs an average of $800 annually, while the Acura RDX costs about $700 each year. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class requires about $600 to maintain yearly.

Why do dream cars cost so much to keep on the road?

Maintenance and regular oil changes are important for any vehicle, but they cost extra for dream cars. High-performance cars cost more to maintain for severale reasons. Technicians trained by the automaker should service these cars, and these skilled mechanics charge higher rates for their specialized services. The cars also need high-quality performance oil and other specialty fluids.

Also driving up costs is that changing the oil in many of these cars is a long process. In a standard car, it takes about 15 minutes. In a Bugatti Veyron, it takes 27 hours. This supercar has 16 drain plugs, and its underbody must be removed to access them.

But there’s some good news for people who are in a position to buy and maintain their dream cars. Unlike standard vehicles, supercars and exotics retain their value or even appreciate. Among regular models, Japanese vehicles generally have lower maintenance costs, while German cars tend to be more expensive to maintain.

So although your ideal car might cost way more than you think, don’t let that stop you from dreaming.

RELATED: The 2021 Audi R8 Spyder Is the Most Expensive Audi to Insure

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Can You Drive an ATV on the Road in Alaska?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

In most parts of the country, all-terrain vehicles are used for recreation and light-duty work. But in some regions that face inclement weather throughout the year, ATVs are often a primary transportation mode. For example, states such as North Dakota and Montana present rugged terrain and long winters, making traditional vehicle travel tough.

But Alaska takes harsh climate conditions to a new level. Alaskans routinely rely on ATVs and snowmobiles to get from point A to point B. But can residents drive their ATVs on the road? Or do they face restrictions like in most other states prohibiting such vehicles on roadways?

Alaska laws dictating ATV use

A family rides an ATV in Alaska | MARK RALSTON/AFP via Getty Images

Currently, Alaska is strict about allowing off-road vehicles on public roadways. Access is allowed to cross these roads but not to travel on them. According to the Alaska Highway Safety Office, the language suggests that authorities may authorize direct use in response to heavy snow accumulation or ice hazards in some circumstances. But in general, residents are prohibited from operating their quads on public roads.

A new proposal regarding ATV use

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s administration introduced a proposal allowing off-roaders on public roads. The proposal would change current policies and remove restrictions for snow machines, ATVs, and four-wheelers, the Associated Press reports.

If the proposal passes, residents could travel on Alaska roads with speed limits of 45 mph. Other requirements would include proof of license, registration, and insurance. And each vehicle would need to be equipped with brakes, mufflers, and working lights for visibility.

Citing the necessity for more rural Alaska residents to have cheap and capable transportation, the administration is hopeful for support and adoption of this proposal. 

Safety concerns take center stage

The assistant director and professor of the Center for Safety Equity in Transportation, Nathan Belz, points out a few challenges with Dunleavy’s new proposal. For example, ATVs aren’t designed for common roadway or highway usage.

Even the City of Wasilla, an Alaska community concerned with quad safety, reminds residents that four-wheelers don’t come equipped with the safety features that traditional vehicles do. The ATV operator is exposed and at risk of serious injury in the event of an accident. Even a fender-bender on a quad could be deadly, especially if the incident involves a regular vehicle.

Belz reminds Alaska legislators that traumatic injury rates would be near twice that of recreational ATV use. It’s unclear if and when this proposal will be considered. But for now, the safety concerns surrounding quad use on roads are dominating the local conversation.

An incentive for COVID-19 vaccinations

If this proposal passes, it would likely affect a majority of Alaska residents. Nearly every family has a four-wheeler of some kind. And most treasure these off-road vehicles much as others do with their traditional cars and trucks. They’re so popular that Alaska used ATVs to incentivize state residents to get their COVID-19 vaccines.

News Minor reported details of the state’s initiatives to promote vaccinations. While some U.S. states launched lotteries and offered scholarships for students, Alaska knew its residents would appreciate something different. Motivation for vaccination would come in the form of pounds of halibut and king crab. Other vaccinated individuals would be eligible to win gallons of gas and heating oil. And, yes, some would get snow machines and ATVs as rewards for vaccination.

The latest headlines say that while Alaska still prohibits direct roadway access to ATV operators, changes could be on the horizon. Other states, including Idaho and Arizona, already offer the option of certifying off-road vehicles as street-legal machines. Considering the increased need for general transportation quad use in a state like Alaska, it makes even more sense to allow the same. 

RELATED: Are ATVs Allowed In National Parks?

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Iwan Bikes Gives the 2022 Indian Chief a Vintage-Style Sidecar

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Earlier this year, Indian gave a handful of bike builders in the US an early crack at customizing the 2022 Chief. But they’re not the only ones capable of modifying the cruiser with some extra accessories. With the updated Indian Chief arriving at international dealers, the stage is set for overseas shops to show their skills. And Germany-based Iwan Bikes did just that by giving the motorcycle a sidecar.

The 2022 Indian Chief gets a motorcycle sidecar courtesy of Germany’s Iwan Bikes

2022 Indian Chief Bobber with Iwan Bikes’ BellaVista sidecar | Iwan Bikes

In addition to motorcycle restoration and modification, Iwan Bikes also has a hand in motorcycle sidecars. Although the German shop sells a variety of sidecars from other brands, it also makes and designs its own. Since 1993, Iwan Bikes has fitted sidecars to numerous bikes, including Royal Enfields, Triumphs, BMWs, Moto Guzzis, and yes, Indians. And recently, it released one for the 2022 Indian Chief.

In terms of design, the 2022 Chief’s new sidecar is based on Iwan Bikes’ BellaVista model, RideApart notes. And the artwork on its matte-black body panels is an homage to the bikes lost in the Top Point Museum blaze. Underneath that bodywork is a hand-welded tubular steel frame mounted to the Chief’s frame at four different points. As standard, the BellaVista comes with a 15” car tire on a wire-spoke wheel. However, buyers can opt for an alloy car wheel or a motorcycle wheel instead.

The rear view of a black 2022 Indian Chief Bobber with Iwan Bikes' BellaVista sidecar
2022 Indian Chief Bobber with Iwan Bikes’ BellaVista sidecar rear | Iwan Bikes

Regardless of the wheel choice, the 2022 Indian Chief’s BellaVista sidecar comes with a dedicated disc brake. It also has LED lighting, a locking trunk, and a folding seat. Speaking of the seat, a heated one is an optional extra. So is a luggage rack and a windshield.

Can you get a sidecar for other Indian motorcycles?

Iwan Bikes can fit one of its sidecars to any Indian motorcycle, including the Scout. But waiting for it to ship from Germany might take a bit too long for some. Luckily, there are some alternative options in the US, such as DMC Sidecars, Hannigan Motorsports, and the Texas Sidecar Company.

It’s worth noting, though, that all of these motorcycle sidecars are aftermarket options. Apart from Ural, no OEM offers sidecars for their bikes today, Cycle World says. Harley-Davidson was one of the last holdouts, but it stopped producing sidecars in 2011. And Indian hasn’t offered a factory sidecar option for its motorcycles since the 1940s.

But why is that? Mostly it’s because sidecars were superseded. Although sidecars make motorcycles more practical, a car is more practical still. Once cars became truly affordable, sidecars became obsolete. Plus, a sidecar-equipped bike doesn’t handle like an unequipped one, further complicating things for newer riders, Cycle World notes.

That being said, fitting a 2022 Indian Chief or any other motorcycle with a sidecar has some upsides. For one, the bike won’t fall over when it’s stationary. Two, it lets older individuals, as well as pets, safely enjoy the thrill of riding. And a sidecar can carry more gear and groceries than even a good bike luggage set.

Plus, a sidecar doesn’t have to just be an enclosed seat. Remember those modern Indian sidecar builds mentioned earlier? One of those had a Traeger Ironwood 885 attached to the side of a Chieftain Dark Horse, The Drive explains. And Chicago’s Federal Moto built a Honda CB360 rig where the sidecar is a nitrogen-charged cold brew coffee ‘keg.’

How much does it cost?

The side view of a black Indian Vintage with a black-and-chrome DMC Tomahawk sidecar
Indian Vintage with DMC Tomahawk sidecar side view | DMC Sidecars

As of this writing, Iwan Bikes hasn’t released pricing details for its 2022 Indian Chief BellaVista sidecar. However, Cycle World says that, on average, “a motorcycle sidecar can cost half as much as your bike.” Given that a base 2022 Chief starts at roughly $14.5K, that works out to a rough estimate of $7250.

As it turns out, that estimate might be on the low side. DMC’s Indian-inspired Tomahawk sidecar, when equipped with a windshield, heated seat, and Brembo disc brake, costs roughly $8000 before installation. It’s likely, therefore, that Iwan Bikes’ sidecar will be more expensive.

But, if you want to give your new Indian Chief a different look and extra practicality, it might be worth considering.

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RELATED: Indian–Yes, That Indian–Once Made Outboard Boat Motors

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