A week with the 2023 Ford Maverick XLT Hybrid proved that sometimes you don’t need a full-size pickup to do work like hauling a bunch of logs out of your yard. RPM News Weekly co-founder Rich Taber made short work of the job as seen in this video.
Sure, the Maverick Hybrid is no monster with its gas/electric hybrid system netting a modest 191 horsepower, but if you’re not into macho chest beating and you don’t have a 30-foot yacht to tow, it’ll do fine. The bed is just right for hauling a pile of wood and it’s easy to load with its low, 30.1-inch lift height. All told, the truck can handle a 1500-pound payload and has a 2000-pound towing capacity.
It’s got some nice safety features, too, including pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking. Plus, there’s optional Co-Pilot 360 with blind spot detection and cross traffic alert for a bit of extra convenience and safety.
Inside, the toned-down attitude continues. More than sparse and less than extravagant, there’s an old-school look and feel even to the point of using a physical key to start up the vehicle. Even so, Ford didn’t skip the contemporary telematic essentials such as USB A and C connections and phone app integration.
All in all, this is a truck that won’t replace the F-150 but could earn a favored spot in your driveway that used to be reserved for your compact crossover utility vehicle.
Besides building attractive and attainable luxury vehicles, Genesis also excels at delivering stunning, show-stealing concept cars.
Genesis continues to gain momentum as a premier premium auto brand, challenging old-guard luxury-performance manufacturers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz. At the 2024 New York International Auto Show Genesis revealed its GV60 Magma Concept, a precursor to the future of Genesis performance under the performance-focused Magma brand. In addition, the Genesis Neolun Concept took a bow, giving showgoers a preview of what will likely become the brand’s new flagship all-electric GV90 SUV.
The brand has come a long way since officially spinning off from Hyundai in 2015, gradually expanding its luxury-performance lineup from the flagship G90 sedan to include the enthusiast-favorite G70, the midsize G80 sedan, the all-electric GV60, and an extensive SUV lineup comprising the GV70, GV70 Electrified, GV80, and the upcoming GV80 Coupe.
Genesis Neolund Rear
Genesis Concepts at the 2024 New York Auto Show.
Genesis Concepts at the 2024 New York Auto Show.
Genesis Neolun Concept
Genesis Neolun Concept Exterior Mirror
Genesis Neolun Concept
Genesis Neolun Concept Interior
Genesis Neolun Concept
Besides building attractive, tech-savvy luxury vehicles, Genesis also excels at delivering stunning, show-stealing concept cars, including the G70 precursor, the Genesis New York concept, the X Speedium coupe, the X Convertible, the 2018 Essentia supercar, and its successor, the X Gran Berlinetta.
X Gran Berlinetta Vision Gran Turismo Concept unveiled at the 2023 Gran Turismo World Series Finals in Barcelona.
GV60 Magma Concept
Genesis GV60 Magma Concept
Genesis continues to attract new buyers, introduce models, and make waves in the luxury market, but there’s one thing that has been missing until now, a performance sub-brand. You can’t have Mercedes without AMG, BMW without BMW M, or Audi without their RS lineup, can you?
Enter the not so subtly-colored GV60 Magma Concept.
We’ve always been fans of the all-electric Genesis GV60. RPM’s Rich Taber had several nice things to say about the model in his recent review of the 2024 GV60 Performance here on RPM News Weekly.
Wait, Genesis already has a GV60 Performance variant, you ask? Can they make it even better? Yes, while the GV60 Performance includes a short list of features to make the GV60 faster and more agile, the GV60 Magma Concept, according to Genesis takes it to a new level.
The current GV60 Performance AWD already makes a good car even better; checking the Performance AWD box not only gets you a net 429 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft of torque, but the 10-second Boost-Mode temporarily bumps power to 483 horsepower. It’s not all about power, the GV60 Performance AWD also adds larger brakes with 4-piston front brake calipers, an electronically-controlled suspension with road preview, and an electronically controlled mechanical limited-slip differential.
Genesis GV60 Magma Concept
The GV60 Magma elevates the performance of the GV60 by incorporating improved battery and motor technology along with a lowered, widened stance and enhanced aerodynamics. Inside, the GV60 Magma features bucket seats with body-colored seatbacks and upholstery crafted from Nappa leather and suede.
Genesis hasn’t released any specs for the GV60 Magma, but if it offers more performance than the current model — not that the current model is a slouch — then we can only assume it’s going to be good.
Genesis Neolun Concept
Similar to how the Genesis New York concept that was previewed back in 2016 would become the production G70, the Genesis Neolun Concept serves as a precursor to the brand’s upcoming flagship SUV, the all-electric GV90.
In typical concept car flair, the Genesis Neolun features fantasticly wide coach doors with no B-pillar, opening up the whole side of the vehicle for easy access. While we’ve seen this design before, most recently on the Lincoln Navigator Concept in 2016, it often remains a feature that looks impressive on stage but rarely comes to fruition in production.
However, perhaps that will change, as a line in the Neolun press release seems to suggest that the doors could make it to production. According to Genesis, “Development of the B-pillarless coach doors has reached a level where their application to production vehicles is now feasible.”
Sounds like a definite maybe.
The exterior design of the Neolun Concept showcases what Genesis calls the principle of “reductive design — characterized by clean, refined lines that deliberately eliminate any unnecessary details.”
Genesis Neolund Rear
With no unnecessary lines and rounded edges, the body of the Neolun Concept is refreshingly minimalist, especially when compared to some of the models from Genesis brand mates Hyundai and Kia. Exterior lighting is flush all around and evolves the Genesis current two-line styling theme.
Genesis Neolun Concept Interior
The interior of the Neolun Concept is spacious, featuring luxurious seating for four with Royal Indigo-colored cashmere upholstery and vintage-look purple leather. The floor is adorned with dark-colored real wood, creating a comfortable lounge space to hang out. However, any production model will likely offer a more practical three-row configuration.
Robert Downey, Jr. spends his time rebuilding antique and classic cars on TV and promoting the Footprint Coalition a non-profit he co-founded to help “create a world of sustainable abundance.”
Unless you live under a rock, you likely have heard of Robert Downey, Jr. He’s a billionaire, philanthropist, playboy… no wait… that’s his alter ego Tony Stark aka Iron Man, a role from which Downey retired after 2019’s Avengers: Endgame.
Now that he’s done with Marvel blockbusters, RDJ spends his time rebuilding antique and classic cars on TV and promoting the Footprint Coalition, a non-profit he co-founded to help “create a world of sustainable abundance.”
You may be thinking that old cars and sustainable abundance are on opposite sides of the spectrum, and they are, unless, of course, you’re building those old cars to be more environmentally friendly through the use of modern technology. That’s the premise of the MAX TV show ‘Downey’s Dream Cars‘.
If you didn’t guess from the title, ‘Downey’s Dream Cars‘ is hosted by Robert Downey, Jr. and follows builders from around the United States as they rebuild and resto-mod cars from Downey’s collection with improvements to make them more efficient while, at the same time, working to keep them as original as possible.
What’s great about the show is that it’s not just a lecture on converting all old cars into EVs, but rather a thought-provoking exploration of how even classics can be enhanced with more powerful and efficient modern drivetrains. Some of the modifications showcased on the show include an El Camino powered by a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder Chevy Silverado engine, a biodiesel-swapped Mercedes-Benz 280SE, and a Chevy LS-powered 1966 Buick Riviera with a roof-mounted Aclima sensor to help monitor and map air pollution. Of course, there are a few EV conversions in the group including a 1972 Volkswagen Bus, a 1972 Chevy K10, and a 1965 Corvette Stingray Convertible.
If you plan to attend the 2024 New York Auto Show, you’ll have a chance to check out the cars in person that were featured on the show. FYI, it may be the last time to do so, since the entire collection is being raffled off to benefit the Footprint Coalition. Be sure to stop by and enter to win. Alternatively, if you can’t attend, you can enter to win online, by visiting the RDJ Dream Cars website.
Here’s a look at the collection on display at the 2024 NYIAS
The 2024 New York International Auto Show opens on Friday, March 29 with the anticipation that it will be the launchpad for a rush of new automotive designs, features and technologies. While some of this newness remains under wraps for the moment, there have been enough teases and pre-releases to pique our curiosity to see more. With that in mind, here’s a sneak peek of some of this year’s new model debuts.
Nissan
Nissan is set to display the all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks compact crossover at the 2024 NYIAS. It’ll be the first Kicks to offer all-wheel drive and is expected to arrive in dealerships later this summer. It’s street-smart design is described by the manufacturer as having been inspired by high-end sneakers.
Sticking with that athletic metaphor, Nissan “unboxed” the new Kicks a week before the auto show and a few miles away with an interactive experience at Barclays Center in Brooklyn for the opening rounds of the 2024 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.
No question the exterior is bold and expressive, but moving to the interior it offers a more cocoon-like experience that’s cozy but roomier than previous editions and meant to counter the intensity on the outside.
Under the hood there’s a 2-liter engine that’ll make 141 horsepower. It’s mated to a Nissan Xtronic transmission.
Kia
Primed for its debut at NYIAS, the Kia K4 will take the place of the brand’s outgoing, entry-level Forte model and from the looks of it, the new K4 will turn the segment on its head. The automaker released full exterior and interior images of the K4 a week ago but held back on full details until the auto show about what makes this sedan tick.
The automaker did however state that “Rather than the traditional form of driver-orientation of screens and controls angled towards the driver, this interior separates the driver from passenger with a bold graphic split. This division creates a clear distinction between the two spaces – the driver cockpit, which is technical and machine in character, from the passenger cabin, which is comfortable and human.”
Genesis
Genesis introduces two interesting concepts, the performance-focused GV60 Magma and the elegant Neolum SUV.
Polestar
As the old-guard luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes continue to ignore auto shows, the premium Polestar brand makes its first appearance at the New York Autoshow showing off its entire all-electric performance lineup including the upcoming Polestar 3 & Polestar 4.
Porsche
The Porsche Macan is going all-electric. The second generation of the dynamic midsize SUV will make its debut here at NYIAS.
Hyundai
This year, Hyundai will launch two redesigned models, the Hyundai Tucson SUV and Santa Cruz.
When the 2024 New York International Auto Show opens its doors to the public on Friday, March 29, showgoers might notice a few notable brand no-shows. Well, the show must go on, and to fill the space that was once occupied by the absent manufacturers, NYIAS organizers have developed new and expanded attractions, creating an interesting mix of vintage, specialty and new automobiles.
The Javits Center is a big place – 3.3 million square feet to be exact – so a big space needs some big attractions. To give you a preview, here’s a rundown of some of the special experiences you’ll find this year.
Test Rides
EV Test Track
EV Test Track 2023 New York International Auto Show | Photo: NYIAS
One of the most significant benefits of an EV is the lack of tailpipe emissions, so what better way to showcase this than a giant indoor EV test track? Show attendees can take a ride in the latest EV models with the added benefit of not being choked out by exhaust fumes.
We’ve noticed over the years that as the line-up of available EV models grows so does the size of the Test Track at NYIAS.
This year’s EV Test Track occupies a large portion of the first level and will feature vehicles from Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Kia, Lexus, Nissan, VW, and Lucid. We’re excited to explore the latest EV models from GM (including the Cadillac LYRIQ and Equinox EV), as well as those from other automakers such as the Lucid Air, Kia EV9, and Lexus RZ.
Hyundai Test Track
Since the introduction of the IONIQ 5, Hyundai has provided NYIAS attendees with the opportunity to catch a ride in this all-electric hatchback. Now, with the IONIQ family of vehicles expanding over the past few years, showgoers will have the chance to experience not only the IONIQ 5, but the high-performance IONIQ 5 N and the IONIQ 6, as well as the Hyundai KONA Electric.
Ford EV Ride
Ford also also joins the EV action with their booth showcasing EVs such as the F-150 Lightning and the Mustang Mach-E. Ford’s test track offers a unique experience that promises visitors a thrilling ride. Imagine experiencing the full power of an EV as it races inside a building toward a cinderblock wall.
One of our favorite 2022 Car Show experiences was the Ford F-100 Eluminator Concept.
Camp Jeep
Not every ride-along at the New York Auto Show is solely with EVs. At Camp Jeep there’s a diverse lineup of the brand’s rugged, off-road ready vehicles where you may find yourself in an electrified Jeep 4xe model.
Even though parent company Stellantis (Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Alfa-Romeo) is absent from this year’s show, Camp Jeep is still happening, and thank goodness for that. It’s one of the staples of the New York Auto Show and one of the greatest auto show experiences of all time.
The first thing you see when walking up to the Javits Center is a fleet of Jeeps climbing up and down the 28-foot-tall “Jeep Mountain”. Seeing Jeeps off-roading against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline is a bit unusual, and the expressions of awe on the faces of kids say it all. It’s hard to beat that level of brand awareness.
One tip if you’re planning on participating, don’t just ride in the Wrangler and Gladiator. It’s the smaller Jeeps such as the Compass that impress on this obstacle course and are pretty fun.
Ford Bronco Of-Roadeo Adventure Ride
The Bronco Off-Roadeo is a new attraction at the New York Auto Show this year. Like Camp Jeep, it promises to be a fun ride in Ford’s newer –and already iconic – Bronco. We can’t wait to give it a try.
Specialty Exhibits
Downey’s Dream Cars
Just like Tony Stark, award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr. shares a passion for classic cars and cutting-edge technology. These two worlds collide in the MAX series, “Downey’s Dream Cars.” The show chronicles Downey Jr’s journey to electrify his antique auto collection, with assistance from builders across the country.
The six vehicles featured on Downey’s Dream Cars will not only be on display but will also be raffled off to benefit the FootPrint Coalition. This nonprofit organization, launched by Downey Jr. and his partners, is dedicated to adopting technologies that advance human systems toward a cleaner environment.
Celebrity Vehicle Exhibit
Robert Downey Jr.’s dream cars won’t be the only celebrity vehicles on display. The Celebrity Vehicle Exhibit will also showcase vehicles owned by celebrities, such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s customized Packard Super 8 and the first Stutz Blackhawk once owned by the King himself, Elvis Presley.
45 Years of Automotive Excellence: The Supra Exhibit at the New York Auto Show
Celebrate 45 years of the Toyota Supra and its evolution over the years.
Hometown Heros
Every year, the New York Auto Show showcases police vehicles from New York’s past and present. After Covid-19, NYIAS expanded its display to include vehicles used by NYC’s essential workers.
Various Car Club Displays
Other specialty car exhibits include the GTO, Ford Mustang, Porsche and Hot Rod Club displays.
Kids EV Driving Academy
It’s not all about the adults! Let your kids test their driving skills in a Power Wheels Jeep at the Kid’s EV Driving Academy.
Toyota Sports Festival
At this unique event, attendees are invited to participate in a series of free adaptive sports experiences, including wheelchair basketball, hand cycling, sled hockey, and skateboarding. Check out the Toyota Sports Festival Toyota Sports Festival website for more info.
Subaru Loves Pets
Subaru Loves Pets Area – 2023 NYIAS
Each Year Subaru helps find homes for shelter animals from across the country. Read our recent story about the Subaru Loves Pets here on RPM News, or visit their website here.
Battling it out with sudden intense weather while traversing the Berkshire Mountains was not what our fearless host, Rick DeMeis, envisioned when he set his course home to Metro Boston in the all-wheel drive 2024 Mazda 3 Turbo Premium Plus hatchback. Fortunately, he was driving a vehicle that had his back and was up to the task. Get the full story and more in this week’s Tech Talk podcast.
Want to stay up to date with the every episode? We can deliver Tech Talk to your inbox every week. Just hit the subscribe button in the sidebar at RPM News Weekly. You can also plug Our Podcast Feed into your favorite reader.
Enjoy listening to your favorite episodes while you drive.
2024 Mazda3 Turbo Premium Plus AWD
“The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus elevates the refined styling with gloss black aerodynamics accents for both the sedan and the hatchback. The sedan includes a rear lip spoiler, while hatchback models are equipped with a rear roof spoiler and front air dam. Rear Direction Base Safety, which includes Smart Brake Support-Reverse and Smart Brake Support-Rear Crossing, is added to complete the full i-Activsense suite of safety features. Leather seats are available in black or red for the hatchback and black or white for the sedan, along with a Bose 12-speaker premium audio system. Upgrades include Traffic Jam Assist, 360° View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors, Homelink added to the frameless auto-dim rearview mirror, and Mazda Navigation System, along with an Active Driving Display and Traffic Sign Recognition.” ~ Mazda Media
