With all the distracting misinformation about EVs pervading social media you might have missed the important news that in year-over-year sales, the EV truck segment grew 83% attaining 21,419 deliveries in the U.S. with the Ford F-150 Lightning proving itself to be a significant part of that success by scoring a 34% market share despite a dip in its sales from first quarter a year ago.
For the first quarter of 2025, reports indicate that the F-150 Lightning topped the combined sales of rival segment entries Silverado EV and Sierra EV, suggesting that Ford has created a vehicle likely worth their continued investment.
RPM News Weekly recently had the opportunity to test drive the top-of-the-line Platinum edition of the Lightning and concur with many who credit this truck with opening eyes to the advantages of going all-electric. It’s powerful, extremely quick, luxurious and an unquestionable delight to drive. Here, in this YouTube video, we have a quick visual overview of the truck’s many features. Plan a test drive and see for yourself.
Sure, the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum Hybrid MAX makes summertime adventures with the family super convenient. It’s roomy, powerful and comes equipped with a boatload of niceties. But as summer winds down and we begin to look at back to school activities and the inevitable approach of winter, the Grand Highlander really begins to shine – especially here in New England.
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum Hybrid MAX
Key Features and Specifications:
Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder w/ Hybrid MAX system
Nissan has taken a sure-footed step forward with the 2025 Murano creating a sportier look while delivering a more elegant experience overall. Obviously one needs to test drive the model to feel the vibe but a quick look-see with this video will give you hint at what to expect.
For starters, here’s a rundown of some of the new available features:
Dual 12.3-inch displays
Color head-up display
3D Intelligent Around View® Monitor
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™
We’ve been a little bit soft-hearted toward the Outlander ever since we first tested the PHEV edition all-new some seven years ago. Our latest escapade with the model had us behind the wheel of an SEL 2.5 S-AWC all-gasoline model that, though not a hybrid, still proved to be relatively efficient considering its three-row seating and all-wheel drive mechanicals. As tested, the MSRP for the top-of-the-line SEL Platinum Edition including Mitsubishi Motors’ signature Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system is $43,145.
Here we have a few images of the 2025 Outlander for you to enjoy.
“Thanks to a mid-cycle refresh focused on elevated refinement and enhancement of the driver and passenger experience, the award-winning Outlander moves into 2025 with updates to drivability, interior and exterior styling, and an industry-leading in-car entertainment system developed by the audio experts at YAMAHA®. Dynamic enhancements to the 2025 Outlander include a more precise retuned power steering system and recalibrated springs, shock absorbers, and stabilizer bars, providing better ride and handling, greater drivability, and enhanced confidence behind the wheel. Inside, the new Outlander has been re-engineered specifically for the integration of YAMAHA® audio systems to bring the interior experience to new levels. In addition, the refresh includes a redesigned center console with a more functional area for wireless mobile phone charging, larger armrests, and more storage, as well as revised controls and cupholders. New, even more premium materials include an all-new semi-aniline leather interior in Brick Brown and a new light gray synthetic leather interior with suede-like inserts. And, for the first time, ventilated seats are available. On the outside, the 2025 Outlander features new 18″ and 20″ alloy wheel designs; an updated front grille and bumper; revised, full-LED, smoked-finish taillights; and an elegant new tri-coat paint shade known as Moonstone Gray Metallic. Every 2025 Outlander includes as standard: three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, full LED lighting inside and out, frameless auto-dimming mirror, 12.3″ navigation screen with HD Traffic Information, YAMAHA® audio with wireless Apple® CarPlay and Android AutoTM 2, USB-C power ports, multi-zone automatic climate control, and a full suite of driver-alert and safety features.” ~ Mitsubishi Motors
Here is the product information for the model we tested:
2.5L DOHC 4-cylinder Direct Injection Engine
8-Speed Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC)
Shift by Wire
Paddle Shifters
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM
Front USB-C ports
12.3″ Smartphone-link Display Audio w/ Navigation – SiriusXM® 360L with 3-month All Access trial
Mitsubishi Connect with Safeguard 5-year trial and Remote services 12-month trial
LED Interior Lighting
Auto-dimming Rearview Mirror
Full LED Headlights and Taillights
Blind Spot Warning
Semi-Autonomous Driving
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Traffic Jam Assist
The all-new 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe has quickly earned raves for its creative blending of utility and sportiness with distinctive design and luxurious accommodations. Even if luxury isn’t what gets you excited, the 3.5-liter gasoline twin-turbo 48V electric supercharger (e-S/C) engine at the heart of this beauty certainly will.
With its rated capability to deliver 409 horsepower and its sleek 4-door coupe styling, the GV80 Coupe reaffirms the automaker’s commitment to delivering cars with not only exceptional performance but emotional appeal as well.
José Muñoz, president and CEO of Genesis Motor North America ~ “The addition of the sporty Coupe to the GV80 family brings a new expression of athleticism and invigorating performance to the Genesis lineup. Both the new SUV and Coupe models bring refined performance and bold design to the portfolio, each with their own distinct character for customers to choose.”
Here is the product information for the model we tested:
Last week, we featured the all-new Hyundai Tucson, so it’s only fitting that this week we highlight its smaller sibling in the Hyundai SUV lineup, the Hyundai Kona. The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD is not just another compact SUV—Like the midsize Tucson, it’s a bold style statement wrapped in smart value.
From the moment you see it, the Kona Limited grabs attention. Its stacked, split‑headlight design gives it a fierce, modern stare, while the wide lower grille and sculpted front fascia add an aggressive flair.
Available in vibrant colors like Sapphire Blue, Ultimate Red (like our test car), and Acid Yellow, it radiates personality wherever it goes. Black-accented wheels and unique trim details further enhance the Limited AWD’s confident stance.
Under the skin, the Kona Limited offers more than good looks. Our test car featured a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a spirited 190 horsepower, and came paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and optional Active On-Demand all-wheel drive—ideal for adventurous commutes or weekend trips without sacrificing agility. The 1.6-liter is also included on the Kona N Line trim, while SE and SEL models get a 147-horsepower 2-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an intelligent variable transmission. All trims include standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.
Inside, the Kona Limited is all about modern convenience. A 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation system seamlessly supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a leather-trimmed steering wheel and H-Tex Leatherette-trimmed heated front seats add touches of comfort and sophistication. Our Limited test car also included a 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster display. Cargo Capacity tops out at 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
With Hyundai’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, you’re backed by long-term confidence, boosting the Kona’s appeal beyond its price tag. Speaking of pricing, the car we drove topped out at $35,475 with destination charges.
The Electric Option: Kona EV
For eco-conscious buyers, Hyundai also offers the 2025 Kona in a fully electric version. The Kona EV boasts an EPA-estimated range of up to 261 miles (depending on tire/battery size), fast charging capability, and the same bold styling in an electrified package. It’s a compelling alternative for those looking to make a splash with zero-emission driving—and it shares the same fresh design language as its gas-powered sibling.
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD strikes a rare balance of bold aesthetics, smart capability, and standout value. Whether you choose the turbocharged AWD for spirited driving or the Kona EV for all-electric excitement, you’re getting a head-turner that doesn’t compromise on substance. For those who want style, tech, versatility—and a great warranty—the Kona Limited AWD (and its electric counterpart) is a compelling choice in today’s compact SUV gallery.
