2018 Nissan Leaf Review: A Detailed Look

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Car manufacturers have started to move away from internal combustion engines and have begun to embrace the concept of electric vehicles. With significant improvements in battery technology and in the efficiency of electric motors, electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf are quickly becoming more popular and are finding new takers. In this 2018 Nissan Leaf review article, you will get to know more about the vehicle, its features and technical specifications, its price range, and how it stacks up against other similar electric vehicles.

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What Is the 2018 Nissan Leaf?

Before we get into the 2018 Nissan Leaf review, let us first learn more about this all-electric car. Manufactured by the Japanese multinational automobile company Nissan, the 2018 Nissan Leaf is the second iteration of the electric vehicle. Arguably the best-selling electric automobile, the 2018 version of the Nissan Leaf features several functional and aesthetic updates when compared to its predecessor.

2018 nissan leaf s sideview

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Sporting a 5-door hatchback body style, the Leaf comes in a single front-wheel-drive configuration, with the electric motor placed conventionally in its front. And while the 2018 version retains the sharply raked front end of its predecessor, it is considerably more aggressive in terms of styling with sharp cuts and angles. Even the headlights and the taillights are sharp and look menacing, which supplements the car’s aggressive character perfectly.

2018 Nissan Leaf Review: Specs

leaf

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Powered by a 110kW permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor, the Leaf puts out a maximum of around 147 horsepower with around 236 pound-feet of torque. Power to the motor is delivered by a large 40 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which bestows the vehicle with around 150 miles of total range on a single charge. However, most 2018 Nissan Leaf reviews will agree that it can be very tough to extract the specified range of 150 miles when subjecting the car to hard acceleration and high speeds.

Featuring up to three different charging options, the Nissan Leaf is highly versatile and can be charged either at home or at public charging stations with varying degrees of speed and efficiency. Also, the vehicle supports both 120-volt and 240-volt outlets, making it a truly flexible and adaptable electric car. Furthermore, the car’s all-electric powertrain comes with an added incentive of lower maintenance due to fewer moving parts. It also includes several user-friendly features, as you’ll discover in the coming sections of this 2018 Nissan Leaf Review.

nissan leaf

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How It Compares

In order to bring a little perspective to this 2018 Nissan Leaf review, we picked a few similar electric vehicles available for sale on the market to see how they compare with the Leaf.

  • 2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV
  • 2018 Kia Soul EV
  • 2018 Ford Focus Electric

2018 Nissan Leaf

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Features

At the heart of the interiors of the Nissan Leaf is the Nissan Intelligent Mobility system that seamlessly connects with your smart device and offers navigation, hands-free calling, and music playback capabilities. With support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the car can be operated through voice commands using Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri.

Furthermore, with the NissanConnect app, you can remotely control several functions of the car through your smart device. The car comes with an LCD display just beside the speedometer, and it can be customized to display information just the way you want it. Widely stressed by many 2018 Nissan Leaf reviews is the fact that the car comes with an overload of technological advancements, which make driving the car a sheer pleasure.

Performance

Moving on to the performance segment of this 2018 Nissan Leaf review, the 147 horsepower all-electric motor packs a punch when it comes to acceleration. Thanks to the instant torque delivery of the electric motor, the car reaches 60 miles per hour from a standstill in less than 8 seconds. With a top speed of around 89 miles per hour, the car is powerful enough to leave several gasoline-powered cars in the dust.

One of the main highlights is the incredibly low noise levels of just around 65 decibels, which is considerably lower than cars with internal combustion engines. Also, its adequate steering feedback and the slightly low slung chassis make the car engaging to drive in the canyons, with the torque kicking in at the right time when coming out of a corner.

Safety

During the 2018 Nissan Leaf review, we were astonished to discover the level of safety features and driver assistance the vehicle came with. With features like automatic emergency braking, intelligent cruise control, intelligent lane intervention, and high beam assist, the vehicle inspires a lot of confidence in the driver. Additionally, with the optional Nissan ProPilot Assist package, the car shares a lot of the tasks with you, helping you steer, accelerate, and brake.

The Leaf also comes with rear cross traffic alert that senses cars creeping up on you and helps you back up with confidence. Also, with the blind spot warning system, you are always kept informed of vehicles in your blind spots on either side. Equipped with 6 airbags as the standard, the Nissan Leaf provides adequate protection in the case of a crash. The anti-lock braking system and the electronic brake force distribution system help you keep the car always under control even under hard braking.

Warranty

The 2018 Nissan Leaf comes with basic coverage of 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. In addition to that, it also receives a powertrain and EV system coverage of 60 months or 60,000 miles. Furthermore, the car’s lithium-ion battery is covered by the warranty for up to 6 months or 100,000 miles, whichever is earlier.

Pros

  • Quiet powertrain
  • Comes with fast charging ability
  • Great performance
  • Longer driving range

Cons

  • Lacks telescopic steering wheel adjustment
  • Intrusive driver-assist systems

2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV

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Manufactured by Chevrolet, the Bolt is meant to be an affordable all-electric vehicle that competes directly against the Nissan Leaf. Sporting a funky and head-turning design, the Chevrolet Bolt elegantly combines smooth lines and curves with sculpted body panels for a strong road presence.

As stated in the 2018 Nissan Leaf review, the Chevrolet Bolt also comes with a sharply raked front end, which, when combined with a flat and enclosed underbody, improves the aerodynamic ability of the car by streamlining the airflow. And thanks to the 60/40 rear split-folding seats, the Bolt offers a maximum of up to 56.6 cu. ft. of maximum cargo space.

Features

Right at the center of the dashboard of the Chevy Bolt is a large, tablet-sized 10.2-inch color touch-screen infotainment system. In addition to this, there’s another 8-inch secondary electronic display in the driver cluster. Both of these displays relay real-time information like the remaining battery level, an estimation of the range, climate control settings, and location and navigation data. And just as we saw in the 2018 Nissan Leaf review, the Bolt also comes with support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Performance

Powered by a sprightly synchronous AC electric motor, the Bolt puts out roughly 200 horsepower with around 266 pound-feet of torque. A heavy-duty 60kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides power to the motor with a maximum range of around 238 miles on a single charge. With so much power under the hood, the Chevy Bolt races from 0 to 6 miles per hour in an astounding 6.5 seconds, with the top speed limited to around 93 miles per hour. The low center of gravity combined with the car’s aerodynamic design enhances the stability of the vehicle at high speeds.

Safety

Featuring plenty of ultrasonic, radar, and camera-based sensors, the Chevrolet Bolt provides maximum safety for its occupants by reducing the chances of potential collision. In addition to the technological aids, the car also comes with 10 airbags and a high-strength steel frame that drastically reduces the chances of fatalities in the event of a crash. Four strategically placed cameras in the car combine to create a bird’s-eye view, enabling you to see everything that’s happening around you.

Warranty

The 2018 Chevrolet Bolt comes with a limited bumper-to-bumper warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. In addition to that, it is also covered by a limited rust-through corrosion warranty of 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Furthermore, there’s battery and electric components coverage that lasts up to 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Pros

  • Multiple driver-assistance options
  • Generous passenger space
  • Adequate cargo space
  • Includes a teen driving system

Cons

  • Average cabin material quality
  • High price tag

2018 Kia Soul EV

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Sporting a boxy SUV design, the 2018 Kia Soul EV is an all-electric five-door compact crossover vehicle. Based on the highly popular Kia Soul, the EV version retains all the goodness of the Soul and effectively combines it with a bright and exciting engine with absolutely zero emissions. One of the main talking points of the Soul EV is its unmatched cabin and cargo space. Also, the car is equipped with plenty of features while still staying affordable and inexpensive for the average consumer.

Features

Emphasizing comfort above everything else, the Kia Soul EV offers class-leading interiors that are not just cozy and plush, but also contemporary and modern. Featuring the popular UVO infotainment system, the car provides access to real-time telematics and information irrespective of whether you are in the car or not. When paired with a compatible smart device, the vehicle allows you to access the car remotely through the UVO app.

Performance

The all-electric Kia Soul EV comes with an electric motor that outputs around 109 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque. Although slightly lower than the competition, it is enough to propel the car from standstill to 60 miles per hour in just 9.5 seconds. However, the quiet and efficient motor provides aggressive regenerative braking that helps you bring the car down to a stop in a flash. The most disappointing aspect of this EV is the fact that it has a very low range of just 111 miles, which is way behind what we saw in the 2018 Nissan Leaf review.

Safety

Safety is one aspect where the Kia Soul EV scores high. Bestowed with full-length side curtain airbags and dual front and side airbags for the driver and co-passenger, the car keeps the occupants safe in the event of a collision. In addition to this, the vehicle also possesses passive safety systems such as a traction control system, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, and hill-start assist control.

Warranty

The 2018 Kia Soul EV is covered by a basic limited warranty of 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. In addition to this, there is also a Powertrain limited warranty of 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, and an EV system warranty, which includes the battery pack and is valid up to 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Pros

  • Roomy cabin
  • Good infotainment system
  • Excellent audio system
  • Heated seats for added comfort

Cons

  • Unappealing design
  • Lacks many features

2018 Ford Focus Electric

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The 2018 Ford Focus electric is a compact all-electric hatchback that utilizes the mature and well-aged design of the gasoline version of the Ford Focus. Unlike other electric vehicles, the Ford Focus electric comes in just a single variant with limited customization and optional packages. As the Focus electric shares a lot of its components with its gasoline counterparts, the sourcing of components and maintenance is a lot easier when compared with other EVs.

Features

The driver cluster of the Ford Focus electric features patented SmartGauge with EcoGuide technology that provides the driver with real-time telemetry data and driving metrics. This information can then be used by the driver to cultivate proper driving habits that help maximize the efficiency of the vehicle. The display also provides vital information like the battery life remaining and estimated total range to keep you informed at all times. The list of other standard equipment includes heated mirrors, auto headlamps, a rear window defroster, and dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, among others.

Performance

A combination of a 107kW electric motor and a 33.5kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack power the Ford Focus electric. With 143 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, the car catapults to 60 miles an hour from a standstill in roughly 10 seconds, with the top speed capped at 84 miles per hour. However, the overall range of 115 miles is quite low when compared with other electric vehicles. Due to the heavy component-sharing between the electric and gasoline variants of the Ford Focus, the driving dynamics remain unchanged.

Safety

With respect to safety, the Ford Focus electric comes with dual front and side airbags and side curtain airbags along with electronic stability control and a tire pressure monitoring system. However, the car lacks active driver assist systems like the ones present in the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt.

Warranty

The 2018 Ford Focus Electric comes with a bumper-to-bumper warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles, a Powertrain warranty of 5 years or 60,000 miles, a warranty on the safety restraint system for 5 years or 60,000 miles, a warranty on corrosion (perforation only) for 5 years or unlimited miles, and a roadside-assistance program for 5 years or 60,000 miles.

Pros

  • Precise and smooth handling
  • Good rear and front visibility
  • Effortless steering
  • Quiet and well-insulated cabin

Cons

  • Not enough storage compartments
  • Rear seats are slightly cramped

Conclusion

The 2018 Nissan Leaf is a very capable electric vehicle that has the potential to replace conventional gasoline-powered cars. Equipped with several class-leading features and safety systems, the Leaf is a joy to drive around the city. With the built-in fast charging feature, you can get up to 90 miles of range by simply plugging it in for 30 minutes.

2018 Honda Accord Hybrid Review

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Pollution from cars is said to be one of our country’s greatest contributors to climate change. Greenhouse gases have accumulated in our atmosphere to dangerous degrees partly because of millions of vehicles burning fossil fuels and releasing carbon dioxide into the air. These emissions also contribute to the harmful smog and low air quality conditions that plague many of the country’s major cities.

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With gas prices rising and environmental concerns deepening, now is the perfect time to shop around for a more fuel-efficient hybrid vehicle. Car buyers have certain concerns in pursuit of a more environmentally friendly vehicle. They want a car that is less harsh on the environment, that also performs impressively, that prioritizes safety and looks good.

honda accord obsidian blue

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If you or someone you know is looking to make the switch to a greener vehicle, keep reading. This 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review discusses the various features of one of the best hybrids on the market. This Honda Accord model really gives drivers what they want in terms of a high-performing reliable hybrid vehicle.

The 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid Review

honda accord hybrid

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This 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review regards this vehicle as one of the best hybrids of the year. The Accord Hybrid and the regular Accord have the same sleek and high end exterior that drivers across the country love. The four-door sedan seats five adults comfortably and uses front-wheel drive. The Honda Accord Hybrid’s gets an impressive combined 47 miles per gallon.

Features

The 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid comes in five trim levels, ranging from base to Touring models. From base to Touring, each trim level offers progressively advanced features. This 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review will discuss the various features of the different trim levels.

Base Trim

EX Trim

EX-L and EX-L with Navi Trim

Touring Trim

Pricing

The 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review features a price that varies in accordance with the different trim levels. The base model costs around $25,100, the EX costs around $28,890, the EX-L costs around $31,440 and the Touring model costs around $34,710.

How It Compares

To comprehensively conduct this 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review, we have chosen a few comparable hybrid sedans to compare the Accord to.

  • 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid
  • 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid
  • 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid

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Price

This product can be found at your local Honda dealership for varying prices depending on the trim level, with the base model costing around $25,100, the EX model costing around $28,890, the EX-L costing around $31,440 and the Touring model costing around $34, 710.

Interior

The 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring model has a high-tech and luxurious interior, setting it apart from many of the hybrid models on the market today. The interior features leather upholstery, chrome interior accents, heated front and back seats, and ventilated front seats. The sound system features 10 speakers, internet access via HondaLink, smartphone integration systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The smartphone integration system is one of the highest-regarded features of this 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review.

Safety

This impressive hybrid vehicle has features that come because of up-to-date technology. The Touring model comes with automatic high-beam control which automatically brightens and dulls the high beam technology as necessary. The vehicle also comes with front and rear parking sensors that make parallel parking and backing in a breeze.

The Accord Hybrid also gives drivers front collision warnings with automatic braking and lane departure warnings.

Performance

The 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review notes the sedan’s incredible fuel economy. The Accord Hybrid gets around 47 miles per gallon. This Honda uses a two-motor powertrain, using two electric motors, a lithium-ion battery pack and a 2.0 liter gas engine. This 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review has found that this car drives smoothly without the hesitation or jolting that many hybrids suffer from.

Warranty

A new Honda hybrid comes with a 36-month or 36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 60 month or 60,000 mile powertrain warranty and 36 months or 36,000 mile roadside assistance warranty. The certified pre-owned program covers cars less than six years old or that have less than 80,000 miles. The basic warranty for certified pre-owned Honda Accord Hybrids comes cover the car for 12 months or 12,000 miles.

Pros

  • Luxurious interior
  • High-tech safety and media features
  • Excellent fuel economy

Cons

  • Some may need more seating or cargo space
  • Some features are limited to upper level trims

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This Toyota model is the hybrid version of one of the country’s most reliable and popular cars. This spacious five-seater vehicle offers a smooth, comfortable, and fuel-efficient ride. This Camry Hybrid is a great mid-size vehicle with more cargo room than most sedans.

This hybrid comes in varying trims. The Camry Hybrid LE is the base model, the SE comes with leatherette upholstery, and the XLE comes with leather upholstery and an upgraded Entune media system.

Price

This product can be found at your local Toyota dealership for around $27,800 for the base trim, $29,500 for the SE trim, and $32,250 for the XLE trim.

Interior

With the Camry hybrid, even the lower-level trims feature high-quality cabins. While the back seats and trunk have improved cargo space, there have been some complaints regarding front seat space, especially for taller drivers.

The interior features a 7-inch touch screen Entune Infotainment system which offers Siri Eyes Free and Bluetooth capabilities. The hybrid also features a sunroof, Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, and a nine-speaker JBL brand audio system.

Safety

The 2018 Camry Hybrid has come back with great crash test results. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has rated the Camry Hybrid a five-star review overall and five-star reviews for every individual crash test. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has also given the Camry Hybrid its highest award, the IIHS Top Safety Pick +.

The hybrid’s specific safety technology includes adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a rearview camera. This Toyota model also features the Toyota Safety Sense system, which protects drivers and passengers through its forward collision warnings, lane departure warnings and pedestrian detection warnings.

Performance

The Camry Hybrid gets an impressive 44 miles per gallon in the city and 47 miles per gallon on the highway. Its more basic trim models are even more fuel efficient, getting 51 miles per gallon in the city and 53 miles per gallon on the highway. The Camry Hybrid uses a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor to deliver 208 horsepower.

Warranty

A new Camry Hybrid comes with the basic three year or 36,000 mile warranty, five year or 60,000 mile powertrain warranty and eight year or 100,000 mile warranty for the hybrid parts.

Pros

  • Impressive gas mileage
  • Multiple trim options
  • Great safety features and awards

Cons

  • Less sleek exterior
  • Less luxurious interiors than comparable hybrids

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The 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid is a high quality mid-size sedan with good fuel efficiency and high-quality performance. The Fusion Hybrid is a dependable vehicle that competes well with the best hybrids on the market.

The 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid comes in four varying trims that range in the features they offer. The S trim is the base model, coming with cloth interior, a rearview camera, push-button start, a nine-speaker sound system and the 4.2-inch SYNC display system. The SE comes with the S features plus a power-adjustable driver’s seat and other impressive feature packages.

The Titanium model comes with leather accents and seating, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and smartphone integration systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Platinum model is the best of the best, with leather wrapping, integrated navigation, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, parking assistance, adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel and remote start functions.

Price

The Fusion Hybrid can be purchased at your local Ford dealership. The S model costs around $25,390, the SE costs around $26,340, the Titanium costs around $30,870 and the Platinum costs around $37,370.

Interior

The Ford Fusion Hybrid seats five adults comfortably. The interior details vary depending on the trim level, with the base level featuring cloth seats and the upper-level trims offering front sport seats, leather upholstery and heated front seats. The interior cabin is notably spacious but there have been complaints regarding the limited headspace in the back seats.

The base-level trim features a 4.2-inch display and a SYNC infotainment system, while the upper level trim offers smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with a moon roof, a voice controlled navigation system, and an 8-inch touch screen.

Safety

The Ford Fusion Hybrid has received the highest awards from both the National Highway Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests. The vehicle also comes with great features like the rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian warnings, parking assists and the unique Ford’s MyKey feature. MyKey allows parents to set a maximum speed limit and volume limit for their young drivers.

Performance

The Ford Fusion Hybrid gets around 43 miles per gallon in the city and 41 miles per gallon on the highway. These are fuel-efficient numbers, but they still fall short of the fuel efficiency of other hybrid models of comparable price.

The Fusion Hybrid uses a 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor to deliver 188 horsepower. The hybrid is said to take on city driving well but requires more pedal work to get up to highway speeds. The Fusion is known for its sporty handling, which makes this model a unique hybrid.

Warranty

A new Fusion has bumper-to-bumper coverage for three years or 36,000 miles and a five year or 60,000 mile powertrain warranty. In addition, some Fusion’s hybrid parts come with an eight year or 100,000 mile warranty.

Pros

  • Sporty performance
  • Dependable vehicle
  • Unique MyKey feature

Cons

  • Low headspace in the backseats
  • Cloth interior for base model

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The 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid is one of the less talked about hybrids on the market, but it still comes with some great safety and performance features.
Unlike many of the hybrids we have discussed, the Optima Hybrid comes in one trim, the EX. Its one trim should not be confused with being a base trim, as the EX model comes with several impressive features.

One upgrade buyers can opt for is the technology package for $5,200. The technology pack comes with interior features like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, 12-way power adjustable driver’s seat and 10-way power adjustable shotgun seat, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It also comes with auto emergency braking, lane departure warnings, forward collision warnings and adaptive cruise control.

Price

This product can be found at your local Kia dealership for around $28,090.

Interior

Like most of the sedans we have discussed, the Optima Hybrid carries five adults, offering decent legroom and headroom for the front and back passengers. The cabin features plastic accents and leather trimmed seats.

With the technology package, buyers get power-adjustable driver and passenger seats, ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel. The Kia uses Kia’s UVO infotainment system through the 7-inch touch screen display and offers smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The sound system notably features a limited six-speaker setup.

Safety

The Optima Hybrid offers great safety features including a rearview camera, parking sensors, and lane departure warnings. The hybrid has notably not been reviewed by the major crash test agencies.

Performance

The Optima Hybrid gives drivers around 39 miles per gallon in the city and 45 miles per gallon on the highway. These numbers are good for a regular sedan, but many hybrid sedans have much more impressive numbers. The Optima Hybrid uses a 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor to deliver 202 horsepower.

We found during this 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review that the Kia Optima Hybrid is known for its smooth ride and comfortable drive. It also features a regenerative braking system that recharges the car’s battery as you decelerate.

Warranty

The Kia Optima Hybrid has a basic warranty covered for five years or 60,000 miles, a limited powertrain warranty for 10 years or 100,000 miles, and a warranty for some hybrid parts for 10 years or 100,000 miles.

Pros

  • Comfortable ride
  • Spacious and comfortable cabin
  • One high-quality trim level

Cons

  • Gets fewer miles per gallon than comparable hybrids
  • No crash test results

Conclusion

If you are looking to upgrade to a high performing and luxurious hybrid vehicle, the 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid is a great bet. This 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review gives the vehicle a five-star rating. This vehicle comes in various trim levels, with its upper echelon trims offering some incredible technological capabilities and interior features that rival luxury vehicles.

The multiple trim levels give buyers several options under what features they want and what they can feasibly afford. The Accord Hybrid gets an impressive 47 miles per gallon, saving drivers money and saving the earth from excess greenhouse gases. It also gives drivers some up-to-date safety features that make this vehicle perfect for drivers with any level of experience.

The Honda Accord Hybrid is one of the most popular hybrids on the market, coming from one of the most dependable car brands in the world. While there are several hybrid sedans on the market, this 2018 Honda Accord Hybrid review should show that this hybrid sedan is hard to beat.

Top 10 Best Performance Exhaust Systems for Cars, Trucks, & SUVs

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A major part of your engine’s combustion cycle is spent on pushing the resultant waste gases out of the engine. While vehicles come with exhaust systems right from the factory, they can often be very restrictive due to the stringent rules in place. This restrictive aspect of stock systems can hamper the performance of your vehicle. Fortunately, by opting for performance exhaust systems, you can not only get a slight boost in the performance but also enjoy a great sounding exhaust note. In this article, you will get to know more about these systems, and discover the top ten performance exhausts that you can get for your vehicle.

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Exhaust System FAQ

What Is an Exhaust System?

What Do Exhaust Systems Do?

What Are the Various Components of an Exhaust System?

What Is the Overall Price Range of a Performance Exhaust System?

What Factors Influence the Price of a Performance Exhaust System?

Where Can You Buy Performance Exhaust Systems?

The Top Ten Exhaust Systems to Choose From

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Features
Each exhaust system from MagnaFlow is designed to offer performance and power of the highest quality. Most of these systems also boast larger pipes and durable, high-flow T-409 stainless steel construction. Upgrading to a MagnaFlow system ensures that you enjoy more miles per gallon, better pulling torque, and even gains on the base horsepower.

Other Details
Depending on your vehicle, you can choose from any one of MagnaFlow’s three different exhaust systems, namely the premium-range MagnaFlow series (with polished mufflers and double-welded tips), the mid-range XL series (with satin finish mufflers and single-walled tips), and the entry level Pro Series (with stainless mufflers and separately sold tips).

Warranty
All the systems manufactured by MagnaFlow are covered by a lifetime warranty.

Pros

  • Best bang for your buck
  • Great-sounding system
  • High-quality systems

Cons

  • Expensive upper limit
  • Installation can be tricky

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Features
Easily one of the universally preferred systems, Flowmaster’s construction and performance are hard to beat. The systems promise to deliver around 5 to 10 percent increase in power, and a corresponding increase in the miles per gallon. Most of the parts are constructed from aluminized steel, which is resistant to corrosion and rust. Some kits also include stainless steel tips for increased durability.

Other Details
You can choose from any one of the four exclusive series offered by Flowmaster, namely the dBX Flowmaster (which is best suited for imported and domestic cars and trucks with smaller 4 or 6 cylinder engines), Flow FX Series (for a powerful tone that isn’t chambered), American Thunder (for a combination of the best sound and performance), and Outlaw series (for aggressive sounds and performance).

Warranty
All the stainless steel exhaust systems manufactured by Flowmaster are covered by a limited lifetime warranty while the aluminized steel systems are covered by a limited 3-year warranty.

Pros

  • Delivers excellent sound
  • Noticeably improves performance
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Clamp quality can be improved
  • Unclear instruction manual

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Features
With innovative designs and great attention to detail, Face Setter offers an extensive collection of parts for your vehicle’s exhaust system. The range of parts includes designs like cat-back, diesel, deep-tone, manifold, and header-back units. The components are either made from aluminized steel or T409 steel.

Other Details
All systems offered by Face Setter come with the clamps, tubing, and hangers needed to complete the installation process. You can also choose include no muffler, or pick a muffler of your choice from options like glass-packed, turbo, or straight-through varieties. There are also several different exit styles and pipes of various diameters available.

Warranty
Heartthrob backs the systems it makes with a 1-year warranty.

Pros

  • Looks good and sounds great
  • Top-quality performance
  • Great fit for most vehicles

Cons

  • Complicated installation
  • Vague instructions

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Features
With parts available in either hot-dipped aluminized steel or in 409-L stainless steel, the series of exhaust units from Gibson are designed to improve the overall miles per gallon and to add around 10 to 20 extra horsepower units, thus improving the efficiency and the performance of the vehicle. These systems also reduce back-pressure and eliminate unnecessary turbulence, making for a smooth ride.

Other Details
There are various styles to choose from, including split rear systems (with reduced back-pressure and dual rear exit), dual extreme exhausts (with the highest performance and a louder operating sound), dual sport Gibson exhausts (for greater performance gains), Gibson swept side exhausts (with fuel-economic designs and single side exits), and the super truck exhausts (for the greatest power gain and the loudest sound at 95 decibels).

Warranty
The price of a Gibson exhaust system can vary from around $200 to around $1,700, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Pros

  • Clear improvement in performance
  • Sturdy construction
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • A little quieter than most other brands
  • Noticeable drone at cruising speeds

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Features
Each Banks Monster exhaust system includes all the necessary hardware, such as the tubes, clamps, and hangers needed to install it. The best part about these systems is that they can be smoothly mounted on to stock spots. The tubing units are designed to minimize the exhaust gas temperatures, and their mandrel-bent construction promotes maximum flow.

Other Details
You can choose from a variety of kits like turbo-back, DPF-back, downpipe-back, or cat-back variants. You can also choose between single and dual exits for certain vehicle models. Some kits are also equipped with the Banks Power Elbow range. Irrespective of your choice, you get to enjoy units that are constructed from 100% authentic stainless steel. Each kit also comes with a polished stainless steel tip.

Warranty
Banks Monster exhaust systems are backed by a 5-year warranty.

Pros

  • Very clear installation instructions
  • No drone inside the vehicle
  • Excellent customer support

Cons

  • May rattle at low rpm
  • Hard to install the muffler

[amazon box=”B003TQ0WGE”]

Features
With a range of exhaust structures for cars, trucks, and SUVs, JBAs products boast of precise tuning and a great attention to detail. The pipes come with large diameters when needed, and are constructed from top-quality stainless steel. Their mandrel-bent design maximizes the flow of exhaust gases. And a chrome-polished stainless steel tip adds to the attractiveness of the systems’ designs.

Other Details
JBA’s exhaust units also come with a ton of features like high-flow mufflers, fully-welded cases, factory-style mounting brackets, and a throaty sound that rumbles powerfully as you kick-start and drive ahead. In addition to this, JBA’s design also maximizes fuel economy and adds more horsepower and torque.

Warranty
JBA Performance exhaust systems are backed by a 1-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship.

Pros

  • Premium quality construction
  • Helpful and clear instruction
  • Street-legal in all 50 states

Cons

  • Clamps are a bit weak
  • Installation can be tricky for newbies

[amazon box=”B000NZUPD4″]

Features
The exhaust structures manufactured by Corsa all boast of the features that make an ordinary system extraordinary. Right from 100% corrosion-resistant stainless steel tubing to mandrel-bent designs that promote a better flow of exhaust gases, these systems have it all. They also offer advantages like incredible horsepower gains, better gas mileage, and minimized back-pressure.

Other Details
Corsa’s performance exhaust series come in three options, namely the Sport series (for an aggressive sound and minimal drone), the Touring series (for a sound that’s slightly louder than normal), and the Xtreme series (best for race-oriented driving). You can choose the system that is specific for your vehicle’s make and model.

Warranty
Each Corsa exhaust system is backed by a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.

Pros

  • Street-legal in all 50 states
  • Easy to install
  • Clear and detailed instructions

Cons

  • Can be quite expensive
  • A bit of drone in the 2k rpm range

[amazon box=”B017IS4DS6″]

Features
The exhaust units manufactured by Hooker help your vehicle surpass the limitations imposed on it by its stock exhaust structures and allows it to tap into a much greater potential by improving the horsepower gains and boosting the miles delivered per gallon. There are several options to choose from, and you get a set of parts that are custom-made for your specific kind of vehicle.

Other Details
The components are crafted from 304 stainless steel, which imparts significant strength and resilience to your exhaust system. You can also take your pick from arrangements like cat-back, header-back, or axle-back options. Some systems also come with reducer flex-tubes.

Warranty
Hooker exhaust systems are all backed by a 90-day limited warranty from the manufacturer.

Pros

  • Improves performance
  • Great-sounding systems
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • Short warranty period
  • Not CARB-approved for Californian use

[amazon box=”B001CI54ZU”]

Features
Made in the USA, PaceSetter Monza’s systems are a testimony to the fact that powerful performances can well be achieved with parts made within the country. The reasonable price tag is another bonus to look forward to. PaceSetter Monza’s units are made from 16-gauge aluminized steel, and feature a mandrel-bent design for quick and smooth flow of exhaust gases.

Other Details
The parts come with a black finish that keeps corrosion and rusting at bay, and the exit pipes in these systems feature chrome exhaust tips. The mufflers are specifically designed to match the make, year, model, and kind of vehicle you own, so you can be certain of finding the perfect system for your automobile.

Warranty
Each PaceSetter Monza exhaust system is backed by a limited 3-year warranty from the manufacturer.

Pros

  • Very affordably priced
  • Attractive finish
  • Sounds incredible

Cons

  • Modifications needed to achieve the perfect fit
  • Installing and assembling can be tricky

[amazon box=”B007ZDQDO2″]

Features
Equipped with several useful features like generously-sized mandrel-bent tubes and low exhaust gas temperatures, each aFe exhaust system has a dependable set of components that fit together excellently. The tubes are constructed to increase the flow of exhaust gases by over 35%, thus ensuring that there are noticeable horsepower gains.

Other Details
While most parts are made from aluminized steel, there are also select aFe systems that come in 409 stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion and rust. The components are easy to install, and the clamps are of premium quality, thus giving the aFe systems an edge over the competition.

Warranty
aFe exhaust systems come with a 2-year warranty.

Pros

  • Top quality fit and finish
  • Easy installation
  • No drone whatsoever

Cons

  • Can get very expensive
  • Adjustments or modifications may be needed

Conclusion

Exhaust systems of a car

Each of the performance exhaust systems in this review guide has a significant edge over most other variants in the market, and depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you’ll find that a few of them suit your specific requirements better than the rest. However, on an average, Flowmaster’s systems are among the most popular choices. They are generally efficient and robust, and their only downside happens to be the high price tag. If you’re on a tight budget, JBA and PaceSetter Monza are two exhaust system makers to consider, as they offer affordable yet powerful systems.

Featured Image by João Paulo from Pixabay

What’s the Best Air Impact Wrench for Lug Nuts? Top 10 Revealed

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Air impact wrenches are quickly becoming an essential component to any machinist’s tool belt and are absolutely an effective way to take on lug nuts and other tricky screw and bracket scenarios.

That said, knowing what is the best air impact wrench for lug nuts is not as obvious as some might believe. There are quite a few considerations to make when exploring air impact wrench options (sometimes call and air impact gun) which can compound the importance of making a decision for this long-term investment.

Today, we are exploring ten exceptional air impact guns and comparing/contrasting them to consider what the best air impact wrench for lug nuts is in the current tool market. As with any purchase, it is important to consider specifics of your own situation, including space for the air compressor, in order to best asses which of these will be the best air impact wrench for your distinctive needs.

Comparison Table

[amazon box=”B007K9388U,B0002SRM3I,B0041PGNZQ,B00FR6V5Y2,B016Q4Y5CM,B007WQQ90A,B0002SRM3I,B002Q8A98M,B006JVIHQI,B00OK3TL8A” template=”table”]

Air Impact Wrench FAQ


Air impact wrenches are not commonly used tools and as a result, it is safe to assume that many potential consumers may not have used this device in their own workflow scenarios. Before we go into detail on the specifics of each of the brands and designs featured on our list, we have decided to include a frequently asked questions section in order to put all of our readers on the same page, so to speak.

If you take the time to read this, our hope is that you are more equipped to consider air impact wrenches, and in particular, which is the best air impact wrench for lug nuts with regard to your needs.

1. What Is an Air Impact Wrench?

2. Are Air Impact Wrenches for Professionals Only?

3. Do Air Impact Wrenches Work Right Out of the Box?

4. Are There Other Tools for Difficult Lug Nuts?

5. Where Can I Purchase an Air Impact Wrench?

How We Reviewed


For our list, we examined a wide range of qualities and considerations in order to address what is the best air impact wrench for lug nuts available. This means not just whether the listed wrench is powerful and high-performance, but also takes qualities such as durability, affordability, ergonomics, warranty options, availability and affordability and more into account.

The best air impact wrench for lug nuts is not the same for everyone, and although we know our favorite, we happily advise that you keep your own specific needs in mind and apply them directly to your situation.


Overall Price Range


Just like any other product, you really get what you pay for regarding an air impact wrench. You should consider these sturdy devices as a long-term investment, and as a result assume you’ll likely be spending somewhere between the premium price range for the wrench alone.

This price does not reflect the added cost of the compressor, unique fittings, hosing and other support items, so it is important to keep those costs in mind if you do not already have those items around.

What We Reviewed


The following are our list of options for the best air impact wrench for lug nuts. These options include:

  • Chicago Pneumatic CP7748 1/2″ Composite Impact Wrench
  • Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX Drive Air Impact Wrench
  • ACDelco ANI405 Heavy Duty Twin Hammer 1/2″ Air Impact Wrench
  • BOSTITCH BTMT72391 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
  • Astro 1828 ONAX 3/8″ Nano Impact Wrench 450ft/lb
  • AIRCAT 1150 Killer Torque 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench
  • Ingersoll Rand 231C Super-Duty Air Impact Wrench
  • NitroCat 1200-K 1/2-Inch Kevlar Composite Air Impact Wrench
  • 1/2″ Impact Wrench, Air Impact Driver W/550’/Lbs Torque
  • DEWALT DWMT70773L 1/2-Inch Square Drive Impact Wrench-Heavy Duty

Chicago Pneumatic CP7748 1/2″ Composite Impact Wrench

[amazon box=”B007K9388U”]

Features

With up to 922 ft-lbs of torque power, a low total weight of 4.4 lbs, 3 power settings, and an ergonomic design, the Chicago Pneumatic Impact wrench makes its case on our list by providing nearly unmatched power in a convenient and portable package. This exceptional device instills confidence by consistently delivering on consumer needs and scenarios with reliability and power.

Considering it is only 9 inches long, the added value of its small size means it is not only easy to carry around, but versatile and adaptable to most situations and tire sizes as well. This impact wrench is great for lug nuts and is a device that consumers are consistently proud to own.

Pros

  • Small and convenient size for easy portability
  • Exceptional power capable of handling most situations
  • Ergonomic design great

Cons

  • There are more powerful tools available
  • Sometimes prone to leakage
  • Only a few features available

Warranty

The warranty varies from seller to seller, so it is definitely important to contact the seller in advance to make sure you are covered in the event that something breaks or it is malfunctioning on delivery. Many users have noted that if issues do occur, it has often been easy to receive help and support for issues that have occurred in the manufacturing or shipping process.

Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX Drive Air Impact Wrench

[amazon box=”B0002SRM3I”]

Features

Ingersoll has worked hard to cultivate a strong presence in the air impact wrench field, and their 2235TiMAX Drive does not disappoint. It is definitely not cheap, but as the saying goes, you definitely get what you pay for. With 1,350 lbs of torque (930 lbs of reverse torque) and options for sound reduction technology, it is definitely a wrench that can handle most everything that you can throw at it.

It is a great buy if you can afford it, but it is important to make sure you know you are paying mostly for added power, which is not always necessarily what you need and may be an unnecessary expenditure.

Pros

  • One of the most powerful available
  • Small and portable design
  • Optional noise reduction technology

Cons

  • More expensive than other options
  • Comparatively unattractive design
  • Not ergonomically designed.

Warranty

Ingersoll offers a fairly sturdy warranty for up to a year on factory and design errors. Meanwhile, they also offer additional add-on warranty options for 2 and 3 years

ACDelco ANI405 Heavy Duty Twin Hammer 1/2″ Air Impact Wrench

[amazon box=”B0041PGNZQ”]

Features

ACDelco is the everyman’s air impact wrench, and their price tag is the proof of this. For a low price rate, you can own 500 lbs of torque in a convenient and portable package. It is a great value, and may be just what you need for your lug nut situation.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Simple and easy to use
  • Sturdy design

Cons

  • Not powerful
  • Not many options
  • Less durable than other options

Warranty

You’re covered for up to a year for factory issues but not for usage.

BOSTITCH BTCK410L2 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

[amazon box=”B00FR6V5Y2″]

Features

Bostitch consistently makes great products, but their 1/2-inch impact wrench offers some questionable design situations. For one thing, the power output is quite low. For another, the design is slightly strange. Overall, this is a great device, but it leaves some believing more could have been done.

Pros

  • Variety of settings
  • Efficient design
  • Adjustable power regulator

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not powerful
  • Not ergonomic

Warranty

Bostitch is a quality brand that will normally help facilitate issues, but confirm with your seller before committing to this high price tag.

​Astro 1828 ONYX 3/8″ Nano Impact Wrench 450ft/lb

[amazon box=”B016Q4Y5CM”]

Features

When you need something small and easy to fit into tight spaces like transmissions, Astro’s nano impact wrench is great for those distinctive needs. It is not the most powerful but easily one of the most convenient.

Pros

  • Very small design
  • Reasonable price
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Not powerful
  • Not as durable
  • Fitted for 3/8″ instead of normal fittings

Warranty

You’re covered for 1 year for factory defects or issues with the design on behalf of Astro.

​AIRCAT 1150 Killer Torque 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

[amazon box=”B007WQQ90A”]

Features

For unbeatable torque, you are unlikely to find better than this AIRCAT iteration. This goliath pumps out 1,300 foot lbs or torque backed by 1400 BPM (Blows Per Minute) This is definitely the powerhouse of our list and amazing edition to any tool kit.

Pros

  • Powerful
  • Backed by 1,400 BPM
  • Very quiet

Cons

  • Might be too powerful
  • Expensive
  • Clunky size

Warranty

2-year coverage for issues that come from the factory

​Ingersoll Rand 231C Super-Duty Air Impact Wrench

[amazon box=”B0002SRM3I”]

Features

This lightweight and fairly affordable wrench provides 600 lbs of torque in a durable and reliable build. It is convenient, efficient, and certainly a remarkable addition to this list.

Pros

  • Ergonomic
  • Built-in self lubrication
  • Small

Cons

  • Not the most powerful
  • Cheaper options available
  • Self-lubrication isn’t comprehensive

Warranty

Ingersoll offers a fairly sturdy warranty for up to a year on factory and design errors. Meanwhile, they also offer additional add-on warranty options for 2 and 3 years.

​NitroCat 1200-K 1/2-Inch Kevlar Composite Air Impact Wrench

[amazon box=”B002Q8A98M”]

Features

NitroCat has created an exceptional and powerful wrench that is not only adept at its work, but quiet as well. When you are working around loud shops or in sensitive environments, this can be a huge plus.

Pros

  • Quiet
  • Powerful
  • Durable

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Bulky
  • Heavy

Warranty

Aircat lists their warranty indefinitely for any factor errors or issues.

​1/2″ Impact Wrench, Air Impact Driver W/550’/Lbs Torque

[amazon box=”B006JVIHQI”]

Features

Affordable, small, and efficient, this edition by Campbell embodies quality design in a user-friendly and widely available package. For efficiency and cost-effectiveness, it is definitely a great buy.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Portable
  • 3-speed setting

Cons

  • Not powerful
  • Limited speed design
  • Limited functionality

Warranty

1-year limited warranty

​DEWALT DWMT70773L 1/2-Inch Square Drive Impact Wrench-Heavy Duty

[amazon box=”B00OK3TL8A”]

Features

DeWalt consistently makes great tools, and their impact wrench entry is certainly not a disappointment. Not the most powerful, not the least, this great device will go well with many of your other DeWalt devices.

Pros

  • One hand operation
  • Quality build
  • 7500 RPM

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Bulky
  • Not exceptionally powerful

Warranty

3-year limited manufacturer’s warranty

The Verdict on the Best Air Impact Wrench for Lug Nuts


Finding the best air impact wrench for lug nuts is an endeavor that consists of a lot of factors and intimate evaluation. In one arena, the best air impact wrench for lug nuts for machinists and handymen on a budget would be something like the 1/2″ Impact Wrench, Air Impact Driver W/550’/Lbs Torque, which puts out an exceptional value of torque and power, all the while only absorbing a low rate of your budget. It is not the most versatile, but if you are not a heavy-duty mechanic, it’ll absolutely accomplish all of your needs.

Meanwhile, if raw power is what you’re looking for, the Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX Drive Air Impact Wrench is nearly unmatched in output and ability. But with its expensive price tag, it might just be overkill. With all that in mind, our vote for the best is the all-around options as created by NitroCat. The durable design, exceptional output, and affordable price tag all align to make a great all-around tool. Regardless of our pick, it is important to keep in mind that this is a tool that you will use for years to come and in a variety of situations.

What’s the Best Touch Up Paint for Car Scratches? Top 10 Revealed

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When it comes to cars, we all take our time to make sure that they are in good condition. Most car owners concentrate on the outside appearance. This is because the outside is what most people will see. Hence, it is logical to ensure that it is in good shape. This explains why any car owner would look for the best touch up paint for car scratches, as they have to wash, wax, and polish their vehicle to make sure that the car looks great.

Any scratches and swirls on your car interfere with its shine as they give the car’s bodywork a dull appearance by obscuring the paint underneath. The number of companies that fix bodywork scratches has increased over time, with most of them charging different prices and using diverse types of touch up paint for car scratches.

Perhaps you have wanted to deal with your car scratches yourself without involving a company but you are not aware of where to start. This article provides an in-depth review of the best touch up paint for car scratches to help you make the right decision as far as the right product for maintaining your car’s shine is concerned.

Best Touch Up Paint For Car Scratches Comparison Table

[amazon box=”[amazon box=”B00HE66OK8,B010GGFR1E,B009VJXG5W,B000EM019O,B000UVUAFO,B075LM6KMJ,B00BMVEZ66,B014TAMO1O,B010TR88F2,B000CPIMXK” template=”table”]

Best Touch Up Paint for Car Scratches: FAQ

The market is full of different types of paint that can be used to cover car scratches. This makes it challenging to find the best touch up paint for car scratches. However, having a general idea of what these products offer gives you an upper hand when it comes to making the right choice. We have compiled a few frequently asked questions to give you a heads-up as you plan to purchase the best paint for your car.

1. What Is Touch Up Paint?

2. What Does Touch Up Paint Do?

3. How Do I Use Touch Up Paint?

4. What Is the Average Cost of Touch Up Paint?

5. How Do I Choose the Best Touch Up Paint?

6. Where Can I Buy the Best Touch Up Paint?

​How We Reviewed

We understand how challenging it can be finding any products online nowadays given the influx of so many types. It is advisable, therefore, to take your time to understand a given product before you can settle on anything.

In the case of the best touch up paint for car scratches, our focus was on the paint’s features, warranty information, where to buy it, price, and pros and cons. This emphasis was necessary if we were to come up with a dependable list of the best brands of touch up paint you can use to cover car scratches.

​Overall Price Range

The price of best touch up paint for car scratches differs from one brand to the other depending on different features such as the durability, washability, and richness among others. This explains the average price range.

A higher priced model of the best touch up paint for car scratches might be much more preferable in that it can be more durable, easier to have repairs done on the touched up surface and may not show any imperfections.

​What We Reviewed


  • Dupli-Color
  • ACDelco
  • Genuine Toyota Paint
  • SEM Trim
  • Quixx Paint Scratch Remover Kit
  • Turtle Wax Color Magic Scratch and Chip Repair Pen
  • Genuine Honda Paint
  • Ford Touch-Up Paint
  • Genuine Mopar Touch-Up Paint
  • VHT

[amazon link=”B00HE66OK8″ title=”Dupli-Color”]

[amazon box=”B00HE66OK8″]

Features

The Dupli-Color contains ceramic resins that help it dissipate heat and maintain a beautiful glossy finish when applied on any surface. The presence of the resin in this paint ensures protection against temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, the Dupli-Color paint is highly durable and can protect the applied surface against automotive fluids.

Its production formula ensures that the paint does not peel, crack, or even flake, which explains its increased use in the automotive sector. This paint dries easily, with the painted surfaces becoming ready for use in an hour’s time. The paint comes in over 20 different colors implying that you do not have to worry about finding the exact match for your car.

Pros

  • Available in an easy-to-use spray paint application
  • Excellent heat dissipation characteristics
  • Gives a high gloss finish
  • Resists most automotive fluids
  • Durable

Cons

  • Comparatively expensive
  • No special protection against environmental factors

Warranty

It comes with a 2-year warranty.

[amazon link=”B010GGFR1E” title=”ACDelco”]

[amazon box=”B010GGFR1E”]

Features

If you are looking for the best touch up paint for car scratches, ACDelco might just serve you accordingly. It comes with a dual applicator that is ideal for various uses. The four-in-one applicator includes a piston style pen-tip, which is perfect for fixing small scratches. In addition, a brush applicator is included in case you need to take care of larger chips and scratches.

Pros

  • Durable
  • 4-in-1 dual applicator
  • Useful for both small and large fixes
  • Versatile
  • Perfect color match
  • Mechanical agitator ensures color match
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Might require several coats
  • Relatively expensive

Warranty

Comes with a 1-year warranty.

[amazon link=”B009VJXG5W” title=”Genuine Toyota Paint”]

[amazon box=”B009VJXG5W”]

Features

If you own a Toyota car, you will find the Genuine Toyota Paint useful. Given its high quality, this touch up paint will give your car an attractive appearance and a longer life. This product comes with a built-in applicator brush ideal for applying large surfaces. In addition, the package includes an internal agitator ball that makes the mixing of the paint much easier.

Pros

  • Applies evenly
  • Ease of use
  • Ideal for small chips and scratches
  • High quality
  • Attractive appearance
  • Long lasting

Cons

  • Only meant for Toyota cars

Warranty

Includes a 1-year warranty.

[amazon link=”B000EM019O” title=”SEM Trim”]

[amazon box=”B000EM019O”]

Features

SEM Trim paint features an advanced formula that matches the OEM finish ideal for automobiles. This touch up paint can be used on different surfaces including chrome, stainless steel, aluminum, steel, and plastic. It has an acrylic coating that makes it not only durable but also attractive.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Acrylic coatings
  • Useful on different surfaces
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Appears blotchy and spotty
  • Gives a rough finish

Warranty

Comes with a 1-year warranty.

[amazon link=”B000UVUAFO” title=”Quixx Paint Scratch Remover Kit”]

[amazon box=”B000UVUAFO”]

Features

Quixx Paint Scratch Remover Kit is complete and offers you with all the tools you need to touch up your car in the best way possible. It is easy to use and only requires two steps of application and all the scratches will be gone. It comes with sandpaper that can be used on the rough areas especially on surfaces that have deeper damages. The Quixx Paint Scratch Remover Kit works well on metallic (gross) paint.

Pros

  • Ideal for metallic surfaces
  • Clears scratches instantly
  • Premium

Cons

  • Relatively expensive
  • Small size

Warranty

Offers a 1-year warranty.

[amazon link=”B075LM6KMJ” title=”Turtle Wax Color Magic Scratch and Chip Repair Pen”]

[amazon box=”B075LM6KMJ”]

Features

Turtle Wax Repair Pen is considered one of the best touch up accessories you can use to cover car scratches. Turtle stands out as an industry leader when it comes to car care products, but it is not for no reason. Turtle Wax Color Magic Scratch and Chip Repair Pen is easy to use. Apart from filling any scratches on the coat, this pen helps in improving the paint beneath to give your car the appearance it needs.

It is produced through an advanced formula that makes it blend well with most OEM automotive paints. It is efficient on oxidation, watermarks, and scratches as it creates a long-lasting bond on any surface and ensures that the touched up area does not rust or be damaged. If you are looking for a product that gives you value for your money by getting all your touch up paint needs taken care of, then the Turtle Wax brand is the right brand to consider.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Versatile
  • Complete touch up kit
  • Improves the underneath paint
  • Can be used on a large surface
  • Blends well with most automotive paints

Cons

  • Only ideal for deep scratches

Warranty

Comes with a 1-year warranty.

[amazon link=”B00BMVEZ66″ title=”Genuine Honda Paint”]

[amazon box=”B00BMVEZ66″]

Features

The Genuine Honda Accessories 08703-NH788PAH-2P is a high quality PPG paint that makes up for a great touch up. It is versatile and can be used on 2006-2011 CR-V, Civic NGV, 2008-2013 Civic, 2008-2013 Accord, among other Honda models. It is easy to use and ideal for a quick fix of small scratches.

As a tough acrylic paint, the Genuine Honda protects the applied area against UV rays giving your car a long lifespan, as well as an attractive appearance.

Pros

  • Compatible with most Honda models
  • Fixes small scratches quickly and easily
  • High quality
  • UV protection
  • Attractive finish
  • Easy to use
  • Durable

Cons

  • Challenging to find a matching color

Warranty

Comes with a 1-year warranty

[amazon link=”B014TAMO1O” title=”Ford Touch-Up Paint”]

[amazon box=”B014TAMO1O”]

Features

If you are looking for a touch-up paint that will help you cover minor scratches and nicks on your car, you will find the Ford Touch-Up Paint useful. As a genuine OEM paint, it comes with outstanding features. It perfectly matches the color of your Ford car. Because of its design, this product is very easy to use.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Matches Ford color
  • Genuine OEM
  • Absolute black
  • Covers minor scratches and nicks well

Cons

  • Only ideal for Ford
  • Flakes off if the sealer is not cleared

Warranty

Comes with a 1-year warranty.

[amazon link=”B010TR88F2″ title=”Genuine Mopar Touch-Up Paint”]

[amazon box=”B010TR88F2″]

Features

The Genuine Mopar is a great touch up paint considering its outstanding features. For example, it features a plethora of factors such as compatibility with Dodge cars. It comes with a brush, paint, and a touch. As a 4-in-1 product, the package comes with a scuff tool, pen, paintbrush, and a clear coat applicator to make you work much easier. In addition, it is easy to use and it will give your car a great appearance.

Pros

  • Flows and coats perfectly
  • Easy to use
  • Bright white
  • Good for the price

Cons

  • Offers a temporary fix
  • Concerns of paint mismatch

Warranty

Comes with a 1-year warranty.

[amazon link=”B000CPIMXK” title=”VHT”]

[amazon box=”B000CPIMXK”]

Features

The last best touch up paint for car scratches is VHT SP201 Black Wrinkle Plus coating features a combination of strong colors that give a custom look because of its classic wrinkle texture. It can resist a temperature of up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This touch up paint is ideal for most types of cars since it can resist degreasers, grease, fading, and harsh weather. In addition, it is highly durable because it can resist cracking, chipping, corrosion, and rust.

The VHT paint falls in the category of multi-high performing coating system implying that it contains paint and primer. It dries fast and can attain its special qualities when it cures correctly.

Pros

  • High heat coating
  • Versatile
  • Prevents rusting
  • Useful on plastics, fiberglass, and metal surfaces
  • Easy to use
  • Durable

Cons

  • Relatively expensive
  • Small quantities

Warranty

The paint comes with a 2-year warranty.

​The Verdict

No one wishes to drive a car that is covered in scratches, which explains why it is necessary to find the best touch up paint to restore the beauty of your car. However, based on the review we carried out, we observed that there are different touch up paint brands you can find in the market nowadays.

Despite such a wide variety, it might not be easy to find the paint that matches your needs, tastes, and preferences. Therefore, you need to be careful when deciding on what touch up paint is ideal for your car.

In our review, we found VHT SP201 Black Wrinkle Plus to top the list of our best touch up paint for car scratches. This brand of touch up paint stands out because of its outstanding features.

For example, besides VHT SP201 Black Wrinkle Plus coating combining strong colors for a custom appearance, the paint has an ability to resist temperature and it can be used on a variety of car models. In addition, it protects the applied surfaces against degreasers, grease, fading, and harsh weather.

Best Car Mats: Top 10 Choice For All Weather Situations

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Almost all cars come with floor mats. These car mats usually focus on style instead of durability or protection. Most often they are simply rubber mats with carpet matching the carpet of the rest of the car’s floor. These might look nice, but can be a pain to clean from everyday use. If you off-road or use your vehicle in all weather situations, they can be impossible to clean, let alone keep clean.

Stains and damage in a car’s interior can negatively affect the resale value of the vehicle. Additionally, matted and wet carpets can be a breeding ground for mold and other unsavory organisms adding foul odors to your car and may even cause some health issues.

Third party car mats can provide an extra layer of protection for your car’s interior as well as providing an easy to clean solution for spills or muddy boots inside your vehicle. Many third-party car mats have channels or pockets that prevent spills from leaving the mat and make it easy to pull out the mat and pour any liquid outside of the vehicle.

If you are concerned with keeping your car’s interior clean or if you off-road or use your car for all weather driving, third party car mats are the perfect tool for you.

Best Car Mats Comparison Table

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Product FAQ


1. What are Third Party Car Mats?

Third party car mats are sold by companies other than car manufacturers and designed to offer better protection than standard car mats. They generally come in trim-able or custom fit style and can be made of weatherproof materials though the higher end car mats often feature stain-resistant carpeting as well as weatherproof material.


2. What are Trim-able Car Mats?

Trim-able car mats come in a universal size and can be cut to fit the specific make and model of the car they are to be used in. Of the car mats reviewed below, the trim-able mats are less expensive but they often do not offer the same performance as the higher end car mats. It is easier for water or mud to spill over the edge of these car mats and there are also some makes and models of cars that have difficulty fitting a trim-able car mat.


3. What are Custom Fit Car Mats?

Custom fit car mats are designed to fit the floor of a specific make and model of the car. The companies that manufacture these car mats measure the interiors of the cars to exact detail and then use computer-aided design to match that interior with their car mat. These mats offer the most protection for the car’s interior as they are designed to fit snuggly to the edges and have high lips to prevent even the largest of messes from leaving the mat.


4. What Kind of Car Mat is Best for Off-Roading?

For off-roaders or others who use their cars in all weather conditions, often trailing mud, water or snow inside, custom fit car mats are the ideal choice. The high lips of these mats will prevent any moisture from leaving the mat and when it comes time to clean, they can be removed from the car without any of the caught moisture to spill off of the mat. For most of them, a simple garden hose is all that is needed to clean them.


5. What Kind of Car Mat is Best for everyday Driving?

For everyday driving, the lower end trim-able car mats are often all that is needed. These mats will protect the interior from damp feet as well as the occasional muddy boot and spill and do not come at the premium price that the custom fit car mats cost.

4. What Kind of Car Mat is Best for Off-Roading?

For off-roaders or others who use their cars in all weather conditions, often trailing mud, water or snow inside, custom fit car mats are the ideal choice. The high lips of these mats will prevent any moisture from leaving the mat and when it comes time to clean, they can be removed from the car without any of the caught moisture to spill off of the mat. For most of them, a simple garden hose is all that is needed to clean them.

5. What Kind of Car Mat is Best for Everyday Driving?

For everyday driving, the lower end trim-able car mats are often all that is needed. These mats will protect the interior from damp feet as well as the occasional muddy boot and spill and do not come at the premium price that the custom fit car mats cost.

How We Reviewed

The following products were reviewed based on the following parameters Features, Pros & Cons, Price, Where to Buy, and Warranty.

Overall Price Range

On a whole, car mats come at a cost of anywhere from $15 a set to $160 a set. Generally, trim-able car mats are on the lower end $15-$40 and the custom fit car mats average at about $100 a set.

What We Reviewed

  • Lund Catch It Car Mats
  • Rugged Ridge All Terrain Car Mats
  • OxGord Heavy Duty Mats
  • Motor Trend MT-923-BK FlexTough Contour Liners
  • Intro-Tech HEXOMAT Car Mats
  • Custom Accessories Armor All 78840ZN Rubber Car Mat
  • Michelin Rubber Carpeted Car Mats
  • MAXLINER All-Weather Car Mats
  • BDK ProLiner Heavy Duty Rubber Auto Car Mats Liner
  • Motor Trend OF-793-BK FlexTough Advanced Performance Rubber Car Mats

Lund Catch It Car Mats

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Features

Engineered with Xynet, a patented resin, the Lund Catch It Car Mats are custom molded for each make and model of car. Available in both vinyl and carpet they offer styles for both on and off-road drivers. Stain and heat resistant, they can be cleaned with a garden hose.

Pros

  • Available in both carpet and vinyl in multiple colors
  • Deep ridges and wall to contain spills
  • Scraping blocks raised off of the car mat for wiping feet.

Cons

  • Some customers have complaints about custom fit for their vehicles
  • Proper hold requires extra hooks.
  • High Price

Price

A set of two Lund Catch It car mats can be purchased at Amazon for an average market price.

Warranty 4/5 stars

Lund car mats are covered by a limited lifetime warranty that includes parts and labor at authorized dealerships.

Rugged Ridge All Terrain Floor Mats

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Features

The Rugged Ridge All Terrain Car Mats are designed with the off-roader in mind with their deep chevron-shaped tread and high walls to contain any spills. They live up to their rugged name with their reinforced construction, giving them strength to stand up to the toughest of uses.

Pros

  • Deep tread that helps clean the bottom of muddy boots or shoes
  • Made from a durable thermoplastic elastomer.
  • Custom fit for each make and model

Cons

  • Installation requires grommets
  • Some customers complain about the car mats slipping
  • Expensive compared to some other Car mats

Price

The Rugged Ridge All Terrain Car Mats can be found on Amazon for an average price for a set of 2.

Warranty 5/5 stars

Rugged Ridge offers a limited lifetime warranty on their All Terrain Car Mats

OxGord Heavy Duty Car Mats

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Features

The OxGord Heavy Duty Car Mats are a universal design as opposed to custom fit. They will fit most makes and models of cars and can be customized by removing small sections on the edges of the mats to allow them to fit better in different cars. Made from stain and weather resistant rubber, they are easy to clean and durable.

Pros

  • Easy to clean
  • Designed so that buyers can remove sections of the car mats to better fit them in specific makes and models.
  • Offers great protection

Cons

  • Strong chemical odor
  • Universal design can be a bad fit for some makes and models
  • Slips on carpet

Price

This product can be found on Amazon in a cheap price for a set that includes two car mats for the front seats and a long car mat that covers the floor in front of the back seat.

Warranty 3/5 stars

OxGord offers a 1-year limited manufacturing warranty.

Motor Trend MT-923-BK FlexTough Contour Liners

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[amazon fields= “B01A5TLGJ4″ value=”button”]

Features

Made from an odorless rubber, the Motor Trend MT-923-BK FlexTough Contour Liners are universal car mats that can be trimmed to custom fit most makes and models and includes an easy-to-use guide for customization. The inverted shell design is engineered to trap water, snow, debris, and mud. They can be rinsed off with a garden hose.

Pros

  • Made from odorless rubber
  • Customizable by cutting the edges
  • Well engineered channels to keep spills contained

Cons

  • Issues with slipping
  • Some owners unhappy with their trimmed liners.

Price

The Motor Trend MT-923-BK FlexTough Contour Liners can be found on Amazon for an affordable price for a set of three.

Warranty 3/5 stars

Motor Trend offers a 1-year warranty limited to manufacturing defects.

Intro-Tech HEXOMAT Car Mats

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Features

With their unique hexagonal pattern, the Intro-Tech HEXOMAT Car Mats have a fascinating look and feel. They are available in 10,000 custom fit patterns for cars, trucks, SUVs and even cargo truck mats in a variety of colors. The hexagonal pockets trap moisture in place until the car mats can be removed and rinsed with a garden hose.

Pros

  • Honeycomb design traps spills and other liquids well
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Strong Plastic Smell
  • Difficulty customizing in some makes and models

Price

The Intro-Tech HEXOMAT Car Mats can be found on Amazon for around $60 for a set of three

Warranty 4/5 stars

The Intro-Tech HEXOMAT Car Mats come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.

Custom Accessories Armor All 78840ZN Rubber Car Mat

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Features

Custom Accessories Armor All 78840ZN Rubber Car Mats are made from a tough and durable rubber that will not crack or harden, even under high or low temperatures. Customizable by trimming they can fit well in most makes and models of cars.

Pros

  • Customization by trimming for better fit
  • No chemical odor
  • Low Price

Cons

  • The small size will not offer full protection for many makes and models
  • Slides around in some cars.

Price

The Custom Accessories Armor All 78840ZN Rubber Car Mats product can be found on Amazon for an average price for a set of three.

Warranty 1/5 stars

The Custom Accessories Armor All 78840ZN Rubber Car Mats offers a 60-day warranty limited to manufacturing defects.

Michelin Rubber Carpeted Car Mats

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Features

Like the other universal car mats on the list, the Michelin Rubber Carpeted Car Mats allow for trimming to customize the fit. Using an innovative cellular design to direct and trap moisture from both clothes and carpet, they are easily cleaned with soap and water. These car mats come with plush carpeting without sacrificing the protection against the environment.

Pros

  • Carpeted for both style and durability
  • Traps and direct water with an innovative cellular design.
  • Universal fit for most makes and models of cars, trucks, and SUVs

Cons

  • Made from lower quality materials compared to other car mats on the list
  • Flimsy construction
  • Small rear car mats

Price

The Michelin Rubber Carpeted Car Mats can be found on Amazon for an average market price for a set of four

Warranty 4/5

The Michelin Rubber Carpeted Car Mats come with a three-year warranty.

MAXLINER Smartliner All-Weather Car Mats

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Features

Made from low-density eco-friendly material the MAXLINER Smartliner All-Weather Car Mats are custom fit for the specific make and model of a vehicle. They feature a textured skin resistant surface to give the driver and passenger traction even when their shoes are wet or muddy. Easy to clean with just a garden hose or soap and water, these car mats offer full protection with a high lip to prevent spills or moisture from spreading past the car mats.

Pros

  • Offers excellent protection from moisture and stains
  • Made from eco-friendly materials
  • Uses the car’s safety holding points instead of requiring extra fastening.

Cons

  • Some customers had an issue with the fit in their specific make and model of car.
  • Expensive
  • There have been some durability issues

Price

The MAXLINER Smartliner All-Weather Car Mats can be found on Amazon for quite an expensive price for a set of three including an extra long back seat car mat.

Warranty 5/5 stars

MAXLINER offers a lifetime warranty on their Smartliner All-Weather Car Mats.

BDK ProLiner Heavy Duty Rubber Auto Car Mats Liner

[amazon fields= “B01EIBBGPE” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]

[amazon fields= “B01EIBBGPE” value=”button”]

Features

The BDK ProLiner Heavy Duty Rubber Auto Car Mats Liner are universal car mats that can be trimmed to fit most makes and models of cars. They have high ridges and are made of an easy to clean stain proof rubber. They are backed with powerful anti-slip rubber nubs that will keep them in place during the toughest of driving.

Pros

  • Comes in three different colors
  • Affordable
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Flimsy design and construction
  • Many customers had issues with cutting the mats to fit their make or model
  • Chemical smell

Price

The BDK ProLiner Heavy Duty Rubber Auto Car Mats Liner can be found on Amazon a cheap price.

Warranty 4/5 stars

The BDK ProLiner Heavy Duty Rubber Auto Car Mats Liner comes with a 1-year full warranty.

Motor Trend OF-793-BK FlexTough Advanced Performance Rubber Car Mats

[amazon fields= “B07BPMGTZG” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]

[amazon fields= “B07BPMGTZG” value=”button”]

Features

With their trim-able universal design, the Motor Trend OF-793-BK FlexTough Advanced Performance Rubber Car Mats offers the protection of a custom fitted liner without the costs involved. With raised channels to move moisture and debris to keep it from spilling over the edges of the car mats, they work in all weather and stand up to the most extreme of driving situations. To customize for your individual make and model the car mats have easy all-trim patterns.

Pros

  • Made from odorless rubber
  • Raised channels trap dirt, mud, and water
  • Easy to trim for custom sizing

Cons

  • Issues with sizing in some makes and models of cars
  • Some complaints of foul odors in hot weather

Price

The Motor Trend FlexTough Advanced Performance Rubber Car Mats can be found on Amazon for an affordable price for a three-mat set featuring an extra long back seat car mat.

Warranty 3/5 stars

Motor Trend offers a 1-year warranty limited to manufacturing defects.

The Verdict

The car mats listed above generally fall into three categories based on their material, coverage and customization options. On the lower end of the spectrum are the trim-able rubber or epoxy mats. These provide the least protection, often smaller than the area of car floor they cover but come at a much lower cost. These would be poor choices for those that off-road or who regularly use their vehicle in adverse weather or with wet muddy boots. For regular everyday use of a car, however, these provide more than enough protection. Of the lower end car mats, the OxGord Heavy Duty Car Mats are the best choice.

On the high end, the mats are made of more durable material and custom designed to fit into the exact area of the car’s floor. These are the mats that the off-roader or muddy boot wearer will want to protect their car. The Lund Catch It Car Mats is quite pricey but are the best choice of the custom fit car mats.

In the middle of the pack are the universal trim-able car mats that are well designed for moderately messy automotive activities. These car mats are less expensive than the custom mats while offering better protection than the low-end mats. The Custom Accessories Armor All 78840ZN Rubber Car Mat is the best overall car mat for all weather use.

Top 10 Best Car Accessories Everyone Should Have

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With the right car accessories, you can have a much more pleasant driving experience. There is a variety of car accessories that fulfill various functions and knowing them can prove beneficial to any driver. In this article, we review 10 different car accessories to help you decide which ones will suit your needs best.

BEST CAR ACCESSORIES COMPARISON TABLE

[amazon box=”B01HXQS230,B0742BQJGG,B076PVH62Z,B06Y58WLX9,B07K1PTYW3,B07C7MQKD3,B07MTPR4HR,B07PXG45YT,B00CB8WM2S,B0721923B2″ template=”table”]

Car Accessory FAQ

1. What Are Car Accessories?

Car accessories are miscellaneous items that are auxiliary to basic functions in a car. They can fulfill a variety of needs, such as holding cellphones and other items or providing space compartments in a trunk. They even include roadside assistance items and disposal containers customized for cars.


2. Who Uses Car Accessories?

Anyone who operates vehicles can use car accessories.


3. Why Are Car Accessories Beneficial?

Car accessories make driving easier, more organized, and more convenient.

How We Reviewed

We reviewed the following car accessories based on their features, pros & cons, price, where to buy them, and who should buy them. After testing and reading customer reviews on various car accessories, we narrowed our list to 10 great car accessories.

Overall Price Range

The price of the car accessories we reviewed ranges from about $10 to around $140. The prices differ depending on the quality, versatility, and function of each item. Some cheaper accessories may only offer basic functions whereas other more durable products might perform multiple functions.

Car Accessories We Reviewed

  • Anti-Slip Car Dash Grip Pad for​ Cell Phone
  • Top Gear Premium Roadside Assistance Kit
  • lebogner Car Seat Protector + Kick Mat Auto Seat Back Protector
  • AmazonBasics Dual-Port USB Car Charger for Apple & Android Devices
  • iOttie Easy One Touch 4 Dashboard & Windshield Car Phone Mount Holder
  • Kids Travel Tray – Sturdy Dry Erase Top with Detachable Tablet iPad Holder
  • Rexing V1 3rd Generation 4K UHD WiFi Car Dash Cam 2.4″
  • lebogner Backseat/Trunk Organizer
  • DSYJ 1 Pack Window Breaker Emergency Escape Tool
  • Toplus 2 PACK Car Trash Bags, Space Saving Car Garbage Can Container

Anti-Slip Car Dash Grip Pad for Cell Phone

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[amazon fields= “B01HXQS230″ value=”button”]

Features

This no-slip grip pad is made of a flexible rubber silicone and it doesn’t have any special installation requirements. It has a large Universal Sticky Gel Pad, so all you have to do is put it on your car dash and it’s ready to go. It holds cell phones and organizes other miscellaneous items such as coins, pens, sunglasses, key chains, credit cards, and USB cables. It is suitable for any flat dash surface in any vehicle.

This car accessory is compatible with a wide range of phones that range from four inches to seven inches in size. It’s made of tasteless, non-toxic material and contains no plastic. It’s also reusable, as all you have to do is wash the base with water to loosen the gel pad. It is also washable, heat-resistant, and recyclable.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Easy to use
  • Compatible with a wide range of vehicles and cellphones
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Customers complain of this product sliding over curved dashes
  • Large size may feel clunky

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for an affordable price.

Who Should Buy This?

Any driver in need of an anti-slip place to store his or her phone, keys, and accessories.

Top Gear Premium Roadside Assistance Kit

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[amazon fields= “B0742BQJGG” value=”button”]

Features

This 66-piece roadside assistance kit comes with all the items drivers may need in their car in case of a roadside emergency. It includes high-quality 8-foot, 8-gauge battery booster cables with an instruction tag to help you jump-start your car easily. It has a 14-function multi-tool that includes two types of pliers, a saw file, wire cutters, Phillips head and slotted screwdrivers, and more. It takes the place of common tools allowing space for additional items. It also contains a warning triangle, cotton work gloves, electrical tape, and a 34-piece first aid kit.

Other items include a reflective safety vest, a hand-squeeze flashlight, two light sticks, an emergency blanket, a bungee cord, cable ties, and an emergency rain poncho. Finally, this kit also contains a tire pressure gauge, an accident report form, and PVC tape. All the items can fit into the Top Gear Branded Carry Case, which even has space for additional items.

Pros

  • Variety of items for any emergency
  • Multi-tool and carrying case
  • Customizable

Cons

  • Some items cheaply made
  • Some customers complain about missing items

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for an average market price.

Who Should Buy This?

Every driver can benefit from this car accessory.

Lebogner Car Seat Protector + Kick Mat Auto Seat Back Protector

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[amazon fields= “B076PVH62Z” value=”button”]

Features

This car accessory is a car seat protector that includes a kick mat and pockets for riding with children. It helps keep the vehicle clean by preventing dirt marks from car seats while the kick mat keeps children from kicking the back of the front seats and dirtying them. It also includes pockets for storing children’s toys to reduce clutter.

The car seat protector has a customized, stylish design that’s adaptable to fit on most car seats, and it has a super vinyl grip to prevent car seats from slipping. It’s made of a high-quality 600D polyester material and can be fastened to the headrest of the car seat with an adjustable strap. With this and the super anti-slip backing, it will stay in place while the car is in motion. It also includes two easily accessible mesh pockets under the baby’s feet for storage of kid’s travel necessities.

The kick mat has a customized design that fits the entire back of most vehicles and measures 19″ wide and 27″ long. It’s made of a high-quality polyester material that is water-resistant and machine-washable. It fastens to the back of the seat with two attachment points at the bottom and top for a secure fit and also has three organizer pockets on the front for additional storage.

Pros

  • Customized to fit most vehicles
  • Keeps vehicle clean when riding with children
  • Provides convenient and easy-to-access storage

Cons

  • Lightweight construction can rip easily
  • May only cover half the seat on larger vehicles

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for a cheap price.

Who Should Buy This?

Anyone who drives with infants or small children in the car would benefit from this car accessory.

AmazonBasics Dual-Port USB Car Charger for Apple & Android Devices

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[amazon fields= “B06Y58WLX9″ value=”button”]

Features

This 24-watt, two-port USB car charger plugs into a car’s DC adapter and can charge two devices at one time. This makes it great for tablets, phones, and other electronic devices. It can charge up to 2.4 amps per port or 4.8 amps total, allowing for charging at the fastest speed possible. It is compatible with many phones, including the latest iPhone, Galaxy phones, iPads, LG, HTC, Nexus products, and more.

It has a built-in safety system that includes short-circuit, overload, and over-voltage protection. It is FCC, CE, and RoHS certified and backed by AmazonBasics limited one-year warranty. It is compact, lightweight, and has a 12/24 volt input with a discrete LED light to confirm a connection.

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Fast charging speed
  • Built-in safety system
  • Compatible with a variety of devices

Cons

  • May charge slowly for brands such as LG
  • Short life span

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for a very cheap price.

Who Should Buy This?

Anyone who needs to charge their electronic devices while driving can benefit from this car accessory.

iOttie Easy One Touch 4 Dashboard & Windshield Car Phone Mount Holder

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[amazon fields= “B07K1PTYW3″ value=”button”]

Features

This dashboard phone holder includes a semi-permanent dashboard disc that can be applied directly to the dashboard. The phone holder itself is connected to the disc with a suction cup. It has a Telescopic Arm that extends from 4 inches to 6.5 inches and pivots on a 225-degree arch to offer a variety of viewing positions. It can hold all phone and case combinations from 2.3 inches to 3.5 inches, and it includes an Easy One Touch mount lock and release system and comes with an iOttie hassle-free one-year warranty.

Pros

  • Holds all phone and case combinations
  • Easy mount lock and release system
  • One-year warranty

Cons

  • Dashboard disc melts in the sun
  • Does not hold phones stable in rough terrain

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for a very affordable price.

Who Should Buy This?

Anyone who needs a mount to place their phone on the car dash should buy this car accessory.

Kids Travel Tray – Sturdy Dry Erase Top with Detachable Tablet iPad Holder

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[amazon fields= “B07C7MQKD3″ value=”button”]

Features

This portable car seat travel tray provides children with entertainment while on the road, and it can even be used on a plane ride or while in a stroller. It includes a detachable tablet holder that gives children a clear view of the screen, and it has Velcro straps that allow for easy removal of the tablet holder. It’s designed with a dry erase surface, allowing children to color, draw, or doodle while minimizing messes. There are side mesh pockets that provide ample room for holding crayons, markers, and other items, and the sturdy tray has a strong base and side walls to keep items from falling off.

Pros

  • Easily portable
  • Detachable tablet holder
  • Sturdy with side mesh pockets for storage
  • Hassle-free, lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Does not include a cup holder

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for a cheap price.

Who Should Buy This?

Any driver who goes on long road trips with children should buy this car accessory.

Rexing V1 3rd Generation 4K UHD WiFi Car Dash Cam 2.4″

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Features

This discreet dash cam includes ultra-HD recording capabilities, capturing video with a resolution of 2160 pixels at 24 frames per second. It has a wide range with a 170-degree, ultra wide-angle lens that can adjust the exposure of the camera in any lighting situation to produce a balanced image. It comes with a WiFi function that allows you to save, view, and even share dash cam recordings wirelessly on your mobile device. It also includes a loop recording feature that lets it automatically over-ride the oldest recordings once the storage limit is reached.

It can support MicroSD cards with up to 256GB of storage and includes accident auto-detection through the G-Sensor. When the G-sensor detects a collusion, it will lock the video at the time of impact, which helps keep important footage protected. It mounts easily to your windshield with an adhesive mount that’s included. It includes a 16GB MicroSD memory card, a 12-foot power cable, a USB computer cable, and user manual, and you can get software updates through the app.

Pros

  • Ultra-HD recording
  • A wide-angle lens
  • WiFi function and loop recording
  • G-Sensor
  • Easy to mount

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other car accessories
  • Picture quality suffers at night
  • WiFi app does not work well with Android phones

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for an average market price.

Who Should Buy This?

Anyone worried about the safety of their car should buy this car accessory.

Lebogner Backseat/Trunk Organizer

[amazon fields= “B07PXG45YT” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center”]

[amazon fields= “B07PXG45YT” value=”button”]

Features

This backseat and trunk organizer removes clutter and provides more space for your items with a customized design measuring 41.5 inches by 12 inches. It fastens to the back of the back seat with two attachment points at the top to provide a secure fit. It has five pockets: a roomy center mesh pocket that measures 23 inches for bulky products, two side mesh pockets that measure nine inches for larger items, and two gusseted pockets in the center for smaller items. It’s made of a high-quality, water-resistant polyester material and installs in just 30 seconds. It comes with a 100% no-hassle lifetime guarantee.

Pros

  • Easy install
  • Provides organization and extra storage
  • Fits with a variety of vehicles
  • LIfetime guarantee

Cons

  • Sags slightly when loaded with items
  • May rip easily if overloaded

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for an average market price.

Who Should Buy This?

Anyone with a larger SUV/truck in need of extra space and organization would benefit from buying this car accessory.

DSYJ 1 Pack Window Breaker Emergency Escape Tool

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[amazon fields= “B00CB8WM2S” value=”button”]

Features

You can use this car accessory for multiple emergency situations. It includes highly hardened steel double-hammer heads that help to break glass with one hit. You can also use it as a seatbelt cutter. It is anti-skid designed and includes a protective bracket for safety. It’s made of an advanced reflective material that allows you to find easily it, and it’s small enough that you can hold it in just one hand. It’s perfect for emergency situations.

Pros

  • Handheld and portable
  • Multiple emergency uses
  • Reflective material

Cons

  • Very small
  • Hammer pops out easily

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for a very cheap price.

Who Should Buy This?

Anyone who drives, particularly in rough terrain or on construction sites, would benefit from this car accessory.

Toplus 2 PACK Car Trash Bags, Space Saving Car Garbage Can Container

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Features

This small storage and trash bag helps keep your vehicle clean and organized. It’s made of durable, high-quality 420D oxford cloth for longevity and is easy to wash and dry. It is also leakproof and reusable, making it environment friendly, and you can use it not only in the car but also at the office, at home, or when traveling by air.

It has an adjustable strap on top that lets you hang it anywhere and an elastic top to prevent the items inside from spilling. The hook and loop design at the bottom of the bag makes taking items out easy. It is small and portable, measuring 14.5 inches by 7.2 inches, and comes with two trash bags in one package.

Pros

  • Small and portable
  • Leakproof, reusable, and durable
  • Can be used in multiple locations for storage or trash

Cons

  • Many complaints of easy ripping
  • Opening may be too small for many items

Price

This product can be found on Amazon for an affordable price.

Who Should Buy This?

Anyone who eats in their car often or goes camping or fishing often will benefit from this car accessory.

The Verdict

car toy on top of a laptop

After researching and reviewing these car accessories, we think a reasonably priced, high-quality product that any driver can use is the best one on our list. We choose the Top Gear Premium Roadside Assistance Kit as the best out of our list of the top 10 car accessories that are out there on the market.

The Top Gear Premium Roadside Assistance Kit provides safety and solutions for any emergency that a driver may come across, and we think it’s fairly priced for the 66 pieces of equipment it includes. If you’re looking for a great car accessory, we highly recommend you start with the Top Gear Premium Roadside Assistance Kit.

2018 Nissan Rogue Sport

Overview: Nissan Rogue Sport 2018

Introduced in 2017, the all-new Nissan Rogue Sport is a stunning crossover that offers good fuel economy, a comfortable interior, and a low price. However, there are a few pitfalls that stop this Nissan from securing a spot in our pick for the best crossovers introduced in the recent times. In terms of performance, the car isn’t very sporty, except maybe in its looks. Its sole engine lacks power and struggles when speeding up on highways. Although smaller and less expensive, the 2018 Rogue Sport is unable to match the charisma and performance of its larger Rogue sibling. Designed primarily for young singles and old empty-nesters, the Rogue Sport can be a delightful ride for those who’re not living in the fast lane.

Design

As mentioned earlier, the 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport is much smaller and compact compared to its larger variants. It’s a great combination of elegance and versatility and has all the qualities that we’d expect from a crossover. Its relative lack of power and command on the roads doesn’t disappoint us; however, its price compared to the bigger Rogue does.

a)   Exterior

The Rogue Sport looks sleek and stylish on the outside. Complete with a V-shaped grille, the Rogue Sport successfully adapts the corporate look for smaller proportions. The headlights don’t reach all the way back to the fenders, and the hood sports small bulges near the wheel arches, which gives it a touch of fun. With signature Nissan styling cues such as the V-motion grille and sleek wraparound taillights, the Rogue Sport’s exterior design looks much nicer and funkier than the larger Rogue upon which it is based. A dramatic up-kick at the rear-quarter-panel glass, along with 19-inch alloy wheels gives the car a rather mean and sinister look. Compared to most competitors in this segment, this car is slightly larger, almost equal to the dimensions of larger SUVs like the Jeep Compass and Ford Escape.

b)  Interiors

The 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport is basically a smaller version of the Rogue and it’s no surprise the interior layouts are pretty much the same. The dashboard, instrument cluster, steering wheel, and door panels have a generic design but are well-organized and serve its purpose. The Rogue Sport seats five in two rows of seats. The front seats, which are borrowed from the larger variant, are pretty spacious, comfy, and there is enough legroom for tall adults but the rear seats fall a bit short in both headroom and legroom. While the rear seats can accommodate adults, it’s not ideal for a long road trip. The car has a quality interior with a good number of soft-touch surfaces. The cabin isn’t completely devoid of hard surfaces, but it doesn’t look out of place next to class rivals. Compared to its competitors, the Rogue Sport’s interior dimensions are right in line, with nearly 22 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, and 61.6 with them folded down. Most class rivals in this category can hardly match up to this number. Although the interiors might not be too exciting, it’s executed well and isn’t over the top.

Trim Levels

The Nissan Rogue Sport is available in three trim levels – S, SV, and the premium SL. All models of the car come with 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive is standard, but you can add the all-wheel-drive feature to any trim at an additional cost of $1,350. The base S trim has a decent number of features but for the best combination of price and features, it is advisable to opt for the SV trim with the optional technology package. With the SV trim, you’ll get some impressive features like dual-zone climate control and push-button start, and the optional technology package adds some even more exciting features like blind spot monitoring, heated front seats, voice recognition, and 360-degree camera.

a)   Nissan Rogue Sport S

The Nissan Rogue Sport S is the base model and starts at $21,640. It comes with fabric seats, a six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat and a four-way manually adjustable passenger seat. It is also equipped with a 5-inch audio display, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, a rearview camera, satellite radio, hands-free text messaging, a USB port, and a four-speaker audio system.

b)  Nissan Rogue Sport SV

The Nissan Rogue Sport SV is retailing at $23,240 and comes with a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic headlights, a six-speaker audio system, push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control, and the Divide-N-Hide cargo system. If you’re tech-savvy, you can also opt for two packages at this trim level – an all-weather package ($920) and a technology package ($2,420). The all-weather package equips the car for harsh winters with heated front seats, heated outside mirrors, a heated steering wheel, a leather-wrapped shift knob, remote start, and fog lights. The technology package, on the other hand, arms the vehicle with the latest technology offerings such as rear cross traffic alert, voice recognition and navigation, a 7-inch touchscreen, a 360-degree camera, and blind spot monitoring.

c)  Nissan Rogue Sport SL

You can get the top-of-the-line Nissan Rogue Sport SL at $26,290. This model comes with leather seats, heated front seats, heated outside mirrors, a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, a leather-wrapped shift knob, fog lights, a 7-inch touchscreen, navigation, a 360-degree camera, remote start, and voice recognition. With the premium package, you can get additional features like high-beam assist, blind spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, LED headlights, and a moonroof.

Comfort and Quality

The Rogue Sport is considerably smaller than the Rogue which is why the rear passengers bear the brunt of its more compact stature. The front seats of the car are agreeable and comfy for a wide variety of body types. Accommodating four adults in the car is possible with some adjustment between the front and rear-seat riders; however, fitting five adults in the Rogue Sport isn’t advisable. Despite considerable room inside the car, most of which is way up high, it can be a little challenging to store grocery bags and suitcases. This is why Nissan has made a cargo management system called Divide-N-Hide a standard feature on SV and SL trim levels that enables you to shuffle the load floor configuration for storing small objects. It may not bring about a major change, but it hoists small objects off the floor for better space utilization.

Performance

Performance isn’t the top selling point of 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport. More akin to an endearing nickname rather than a racy performance, the Nissan Rogue Sport comes with only one powertrain and is quite efficient. It is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine which produces 141 horsepower and 147 pound-feet of torque with CVT, mated to the front or all-wheel drive. The Rogue Sport is not very fast and takes a long time to accelerate up to the desired speed. Acceleration can be rather leisurely but once it’s picked up, the engine settles into a respectable trot. The vehicle somewhat redeems itself with lively steering that absolves some of the engine’s shortcomings, but it’s hard not to notice that it’s lacking some fervor under the hood.

The vehicle comes with 17-inch wheels but you can also opt for 19-inch wheels with the top-end Rogue Sport SL. Nissan offers all-wheel drive on the Rogue Sport, but it’s best considered as all-weather traction rather than off-road ready—and even then, its value is questionable. All-wheel drive is a $1,350 option on all trim levels, thereby increasing the starting price of a Rogue Sport close to an all-wheel drive Rogue. The Rogue Sport offers 7.4 inches of ground clearance compared to the 8.4 inches from a Rogue, and while neither will be mistaken for a Jeep anytime soon, the Rogue is definitely more spacious and powerful.

Technology

The base version of the Rogue Sport comes with a four-speaker audio system with a 5.0-inch infotainment display, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and the freedom of an open road. That’s good base equipment, and the infotainment display is above average. The SV trim level offers more standard equipment and more available options including automatic headlights, power adjustable driver’s seat, a six-speaker audio system, dual-zone climate control, keyless ignition, and a cargo management system for the rear, cold-weather collection that adds heated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote start, leather-wrapped gear shifter, and heated outside mirrors.

A technology package adds all of the above, a larger 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, blind-spot monitors, a surround-view camera system, and satellite radio. In addition to all equipment from the SV trim level and technology package, the SL premium package includes a moonroof, along with some new-age safety features. All-in-all, a 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport SL with AWD costs around $31,000. With just a little more, or maybe less if you’re opting for the basic trim, you can buy the original larger Rogue, which is available with more standard and optional safety features.

Safety

The Nissan Rogue Sport 2018 hasn’t been officially tested by the major safety rating organizations in the U.S. so it lacks authorized safety data. For passenger safety, the car comes with airbags including front, side, and rollover airbags. It is also equipped with traction and stability control systems, which are standard safety features in most vehicles nowadays. The car also comes with a rearview camera which is standard equipment in all models. However, active safety features such as forward collision warnings with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and a surround-view camera system are reserved for the top SL trim level and even there, you’ll have to pay extra. This seems a bit odd as it turns out to be way more expensive than the well-equipped bigger Rogue that comes standard with automatic emergency braking.

Fuel Economy

The 2018 Nissan Rogue is quite fuel-efficient thanks to its small size and automatic transmission. Its fuel economy is the best in the entire Rogue lineup, but it’s also smaller. In the small crossover category, Rogue Sports falls just short of a vaunted 30 mpg combined rating, which few rivals can claim. The EPA rates front-drive Rogue Sports at 25 mpg city, 32 highway, 28 combined, which is pretty efficient. The Rogue Sport is competitive against its immediate rivals including the Subaru Crossover (29 mpg combined), Mazda CX-3 (31 mpg combined), and Chevy Trax (28 mpg combined).

The Verdict

2018 Nissan Rogue Sport can be quite delightful as a subcompact SUV with a tall ride height and affordable base models. It offers a nice balance of features, price, accommodations and good fuel economy, along with a comfortable and relaxed ride and generous cargo area. But don’t get your hopes up on this one just now! The car comes with an outdated infotainment system and languid acceleration holds it back from being the best in class. Although it is devoid of Rogue’s 3rd-row seat and a larger cargo space, the Rogue Sport features the same dashboard, and by default most of the same infotainment and safety features. The Rogue Sport’s rear seat could be a little more versatile and spacious like a few of its rivals. And while we love the idea of a pint-sized Rogue, the Sport lacks in power and doesn’t really pack a punch! It is also devoid of some must-have options, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Despite its shortcomings, with consumer appetite for crossovers seemingly insatiable, manufacturers are working tirelessly to keep showrooms stocked.

Kia Stinger

A Review: 2018 Kia Stinger

 

Kia’s Stinger is aggressive – it stings like a bee and floats like a Cadillac

Kia’s Stinger is a Gran Turismo that is fast, suave, and pretty luxurious for two couples and their luggage for a weekend getaway or a long spirited drive to the countryside. The all-new Stinger is by far Kia’s most ambitious project and a promised turning point for the South Korean manufacturer, best known for economy cars. It is essentially a sports sedan; a strong performer, fine-looking, and potent in all the same ways as its German contenders including BMW Series 3 and Audi A5 Sportback Prestige, both of which are far more expensive.

As stylish as the latest offerings from Kia have become, they typically haven’t had the performance and handling at par with the competitors in their respective segments. However, the Stinger represents a significant step forward for the car company. With sports back styling and a world of improvement in safety tech, the Stinger is a one-of-a-kind luxury car. Moreover, it performs as well as it looks, which is well above our expectations given its modest price.

Trim Levels

For its debut year, the Stinger is introduced in five trim levels – base, Premium, GT, GT1, and GT2. The base and Premium models feature a four-cylinder engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger and an output of 255-horsepower. However, every GT edition is powered by a 365-hp twin-turbo V6 engine. Irrespective of the engine you select, the Stinger is equipped with an eight-speed fully automatic transmission.

Kia Stinger Base

As mentioned above, the base model comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive. The interiors have posh leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a fancy steering wheel wrapped in leather. Some of the other high-end features present in the base model include a UVO infotainment system, six speakers, and Apple CarPlay. Moreover, a 7-inch touchscreen, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, proximity key entry, parking sensors, and a rear-view camera are also included in the Stinger.

Kia Stinger Premium

Some of the highlights of Stinger Premium include a moonroof, an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation system, and a 15-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system.

Kia Stinger GT

One of the best features of the Stinger GT is its 3.3-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 engine. The Stinger GT enjoys some top-of-the-line sporty trimmings like aluminum pedals and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The base GT comes with a 7-inch touchscreen and nine speakers. The GT2 system is upgraded in the GT1 to include an 8-inch touchscreen and navigation. A host of comfort and standout features are also added to the GT2 including Nappa leather upholstery, extra power adjustments for the front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a hands-free power trunk lid, along with an array of high-tech safety features.

Design

The Stinger is slick and fantastic to look at and even better to drive! It’s equipped with a chassis that can throw a stiff competition to any top of the line German sports sedan. The overall design of the vehicle is certainly aggressive, especially with the brand’s distinct ‘tiger nose’ grille in place. Kia’s European design studio in Frankfurt has come up with a futuristic and innovative design for a luxury sedan like the Stinger. Its low stance and muscular body effectively distinguish the automobile from anything else the company has produced. The Stinger’s fastback roofline, rear-drive proportions, and a long wheelbase lends it an air of elegance and sophistication. Complex LED headlights to flank the grille, which features a chrome-studded design similar to a Mercedes-Benz. All in all, the Stinger’s unique fastback design and great attention to detail makes it stand out among the relatively anonymous sedans within the same price range.

Interiors

The five-seater Stinger boasts of a roomy and opulent cabin. There’s plenty of room in the front and rear seats for four adults although anyone in the center position in the back is likely to feel cramped. But there’s more legroom than a Mercedes-Benz C-Class or Alfa Romeo Giulia. Standard leather upholstery and heated front seats add to the car’s comfort quotient. While the more expensive rivals such as BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class come with standard leather seats, Kia includes genuine leather upholstery in every Stinger. The fit and finish throughout the cabin is excellent. A nice addition to the interiors are the exposed speaker grilles and Mercedes-Benz-style eyeball center vents.

Cargo Space

The main advantage of owning a sportback sedan like the Stinger is the large cargo space of 23.3 cubic feet, which far more than the class average. The Stinger is ideal if you’re planning for a short vacay or a road trip so you can carry large or bulky items. You also have the option of folding down the rear seat for up to 40.9 cubic feet of cargo space.

Performance

The Stinger comes with two engine variations: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 255 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V-6 with 365 hp and 376 lb-ft. Both engines are paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Smooth, powerful, and with an excellent engine note, this is definitely the powerhouse of this car, and worth the premium you have to pay. Moreover, a choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive in every trim level also boosts the Stinger’s performance chops.

Both the engine variations are turbocharged, providing quick acceleration every time you ask. However, to experience the ultimate KIA performance and the ability to reach 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, we’d advise you to go with the 365-horsepower V6. With its four-cylinder engine, the Stinger offers a mileage of 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. These ratings are a little lower than the typical fuel economy for a luxury small car. Moreover, the estimates might further drop to 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway with the V6. An 8-speed automatic transmission is connected to both engines. A manual would be fun but we’re not complaining about how quickly this automatic shifts, both on its own and when using the steering-wheel-mounted paddles.

The Stinger maintains a good balance between comfort and performance. When accelerated along hilly roads and twisty canyons, it stays glued to the road and absorbs all the imperfections and bumps for a seamless and smooth ride. Steering and braking are also quite responsive and predictable.  

Safety

On the safety side, in addition to the airbags and usual array of stability controls, the Kia Stinger is equipped with front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and a cool brake fade compensation. Safety features like forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and automatic braking, lane departure warning, driver drowsiness warning, automatic high beams, blind spot monitoring, rain-sensing wipers, and adaptive cruise control are also present in the new Stinger.

Infotainment & Navigation

The infotainment system – led by Kia’s latest UVO interface – is new-age, simple and very easy to use compared to the complex tech from Lexus and BMW. The infotainment system has straightforward menu options, and the location of buttons allows the driver to access a range of controls without having to take their eyes off the road. Moreover, bonuses like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto add to the Stinger’s user-friendliness. For an extra boost, you can add on the 15-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system.

Price

The 2018 Kia Stinger costs considerably less, almost a few thousand dollars than a typical luxury small car. Models start at $31,900 and can reach as high as $49,200. These figures refer to the rear-wheel-drive editions, but you can add all-wheel drive to any trim for $2,200.

Although the BMW 3 Series is a great choice, it is way more expensive and isn’t quite as good of a value as the Stinger. It has a higher base price by a few thousand dollars, and you’ll have to shell out more to pep things up a little, like leather seats, power-adjustable or heated front seats, satellite radio, or Apple CarPlay. In comparison, all of these come standard in the Stinger.

The Verdict

Right off the bat, Kia got it right. Whether it’s by appearance or the overall performance, the Stinger impressively challenges similar luxury-branded vehicles. Although there are still going to be some traditional Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz shoppers who won’t bother with the Stinger because it lacks the badge and the prestige associated with it. The Stinger isn’t just good for a Kia — it is phenomenal compared to anything in and well above its price.

Should I Buy the Kia Stinger?

You should opt for the Stinger if you’re looking for a sophisticated but sporty ride that can easily pull daily-driver duty. With some of the performance scores among small luxury cars, the Stinger promises engaging agility with two potent powertrains to choose from. One of the Stinger’s drawbacks is its newness to the segment. Some shoppers might question if Kia has been successful in building an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports sedan that can compete with class heavyweights like the BMW 3 Series. However, many may find it difficult to opt for a car wearing a Kia badge instead of a long time luxury stalwart like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

With a starting price of about $32,000, the Stinger offers the best value in the class. It is priced lower than most of its competitors – and thousands of dollars less than the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes C-Class. For your money, you’ll get standard amenities like a well-equipped infotainment system and leather seats, along with one of the longest warranties on the market. Kia’s Stinger stands out for being a well-rounded package at a great price.

If the exquisite experience of a true luxury sports sedan is a no-compromise zone, you have no choice but to spend another 20 grand for a premium mid-sizer. But if you can accept a little step down in overall finish and aura, and if the muscle of the automobile is important, then the Stinger delivers speed in a package that looks as if it drove off an auto-show turntable.

 


 

2018 BMW 5-Series

A Review: 2018 BMW 5-Series

For more than forty years, the BMW 5-Series has been the go-to executive sedan for millions of business-type mile-crunchers with a passion for driving. With show-stopping performance and precision driving, the 2018 5-series is one of the most interactive and innovative vehicles in the BMW lineup. It lives up to the expectations set by its forebears and is available in both sedan and estate form with a choice of three petrol engines – the 520i, 530i, and 540i – three diesels – 520d, 525d and 530d, and one hybrid – the 530e iPerformance. To top is up is the fully loaded 592bhp M5. In addition to the saloon reviewed here, BMW also sells a Touring estate version of the 5-series, available with a range of petrol and diesel engines, rear or all-wheel drive and a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox. The 530e iPerformance plug-in hybrid and the newly launched M5 model ensure BMW has everything it needs to compete with the likes of Audi A6, Jaguar XF, and Mercedes E-class.

This high-end, uber-luxurious car is packed with some highly commendable and rarely matched features for an out-of-the-world driving experience and a supremely comfortable ride. Even with all these improvements, is it appealing enough to remain in the league of modern machines and keep car aficionados hooked? Let’s find out.

Design

The latest BMW 5-Series remains quite conservative, and we for one don’t mind that at all. It borrows heavily from the larger 7-series but gets its own details. Thankfully, the gaping grille has been discarded, retaining just the latest version of BMW’s signature twin-kidney design, flanked by headlight housings that now meet each grille’s edge. Regardless of the trim, the 5-series takes an evolutionary approach to styling compared to its predecessor. It flaunts a sharper nose and more tapered profile along the sides. Creases along the doors under the windows and door handle and updated LED tail lights and chromed exhaust ports finish the 5-series off in its own effortlessly stylish way. Although it may not be a leap beyond the last generation, the 5-series has a handsome interior and good-looking exterior.

Interiors

The 2018 BMW 5-Series is a mid-size luxury sedan with a suite of top-notch features. It nearly aces our comfort index with great front and rear seats, spacious interiors, and plentiful cargo storage. The interior is exquisite with soft-touch surfaces, trimmed in rich leather and super expensive upholstery, although some combinations can get a tad bit distracting and over-the-top – we’re not complaining!

Space

The 5-series has drastically increased in size since it first went on sale in the 1970s which means that you get plenty of room by class standards. There is ample room for one tall adult to sit behind without cause for complaint, and only if somebody sits in the middle of the rear seats that things can get a little uncomfortable. With an inflexible center backrest and a large lump in the floor to straddle, this middle seat is definitely the short straw as far as passenger comfort goes.

Storage is on par with the standard, whether it’s the large door bins or numerous storage trays for holding phones, keys, and wallet. The boot is a huge space so you can easily transport a couple of large cases without a care in the world. To make more space for your luggage, the rear seats can be folded flat in a 40:20:40 split, but only if you specify this as an optional extra. However, the 530e plug-in hybrid loses a large chunk of boot space in order to accommodate the battery for its electric motor.

Comfort

The BMW 5-series is as comfortable as it gets! It is supremely quiet on all road surfaces, with the only disturbance at 70 mph being light rustling sound around the wing mirrors. BMW, like always, has gone to town with the seats too! You can opt for the massage function that turns every journey into a trip to a luxury spa.

Performance

If the driving experience is truly important to you, then the 530i is a sedan to consider. With the exception of upgraded brakes, this BMW doesn’t completely rely on sheer horsepower or road grip to sling it around corners. Instead, you get you a wholesome package that feels extremely well-rounded, which is far better. Some of the latest models to be introduced this year include a V-8-powered M550i xDrive, a diesel-powered 540d, and a plug-in hybrid 530e. The 2018 BMW 5-Series is available in 4-, 6-, and 8-cylinder options, but this is only the tip of the iceberg – we haven’t even considered the hybrid yet. Let’s proceed cautiously then!

The base turbo-4 is fantastic in the 530i, but it’s the transmission, ride, and handling that left us absolutely awestruck. The first option for many buyers is usually the turbo-4 found under the hood of the 530i. It makes 248 hp and 258 lb-feet of torque, and can power the rear wheels as standard or all four via the optional all-wheel drive (AWD), also called xDrive. It boosts the vehicle up to 60 mph in just six seconds, which should be enough for most buyers.

The next step up for car enthusiasts is the 530e, which is powered by a turbo-4 along with a 9.2-kWh battery and electric motor for a combined output of 248 hp and 310 lb-ft. The battery and combustion engine seamlessly work together, with barely a shift in performance from the 530i to the 530e. They both manage the 60 mph sprint in 6.1 seconds. However, the only gripe from this model is that the hybrid running gear adds more than 600 pounds to the overall mass. Most BMW aficionados might be familiar with the 540i badge, but maybe not its brand new engine configuration. A turbo-6 engine replaces the V-8, typically found in 540i models and provides an output of 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. It can propel the car to make 60 mph in less than five seconds with rear- or all-wheel drive.

The all-new, flagship 5-Series M550i xDrive mates a 4.4-liter turbocharged V-8 with AWD running gear to charge up to 60 mph in less than four seconds. The 456 hp and 480 lb-ft would be enough to thrill most drivers.

Most models can be equipped with rear-wheel steering and an adaptive damper system that helps improve the car’s ride and behavior. Although we don’t recommend the rear-wheel steering setup as it felt a little out of place, all in all, the 5-series has an overall good steering setup with a direct electrically powered system that responds appropriately. The standard eight-speed automatic gearbox is extraordinary, and the option of having xDrive four-wheel drive turns the 5-series into a true all-weather vehicle. If you explore the available options, you can even specify the car with a remote control parking function that lets you drive the car forward or backward when you’re not in it by using the key – this can be helpful for getting into tight parking space, or simply showing off to your friends.

Features

The 2018 BMW 5-Series places a lot of emphasis on technology with a host of convenience features that can transform the luxury sedan into a mean machine. BMW has been a pioneer in the field of dashboard technology and infotainment system, and the 5-Series is no different. The dashboard layout borrows heavily from its flagship 7-series, which is brilliant. The quality of material used and the range of colors and fabrics available for customizations is almost endless. But its seamless operation is something that really impresses. Considering how much technology it’s got on board, the 5-series is a charm to use – be it simple tasks such as adjusting the heating or more complicated ones like navigating the iDrive infotainment system.

A sharp 8.8-inch LCD screen has been planted in front of the driver inside the instrument cluster, along with a 10.2-inch touchscreen which is perched atop the dashboard. Besides the standard infotainment controls, the introduction of a state-of-the-art touchscreen is BMW’s way to push for connected-car technology, called Connect+. It offers a host of services ranging from trip notification and calendar updates to email alerts and entertainment. It’s an ambitious move for the car company with an eye on the future for self-driving cars.

The basic 530i configuration comes with standard 17-inch wheels, a moonroof, power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster display, LED headlights, synthetic leather upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen for infotainment. That’s impressive standard equipment, especially the touchscreen. The 5-Series also offers an exciting range of options that can transform the sedan into a lavish affair.

Reliability

The latest 5-series is quite new for any model specific data to be available, but BMW as a brand didn’t perform too well over the last 2 to 3 years, lagging behind Mercedes, Jaguar and Volvo, but still ahead of Audi in most surveys. The car comes with a warranty that lasts for unlimited miles over its three years. This matches Mercedes and beats Audi, which limits its warranty cover to 60,000 miles.

Fuel Economy

With the 530e hybrid, you should be able to exceed 140 mpg, but that’s only if you regularly plug-in to make use of its pure electric range of up to 30 miles. Fail to do so and economy can easily drop by 100 mpg.

For most drivers, the 5-series will be at its most efficient in the 520d Efficient Dynamics version, in which it returned more than 70 mpg most fuel economy tests. However, you should expect closer to 45 mpg in normal use, but that still places it marginally ahead of a similarly powerful Mercedes E-class or Jaguar XF. The six-cylinder 530d offers a mileage of more than 40 mpg on a long run, which is great considering the performance on offer.

Affordability

Let’s face it, the 5-series was never going to be a cheap car, but neither are its rivals. Indeed, BMW has kept prices in line with offerings from Audi, Jaguar and Mercedes, while strong resale values help to keep leasing costs attractive.

Standard Spec

The 5-series range starts with the SE, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, heated leather seats, the 10.2-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation, front and rear parking sensors, LED headlights, and dual-zone climate control among its long list of standard equipment. M Sport comes with larger wheels, sportier suspension, and more aggressive body styling, none of which do anything to help ride comfort. However, just because the 5-series is well equipped as standard, that doesn’t mean there isn’t scope for jazzing up the car with expensive optional extras.

The options list is endless with so many features to choose from, you will be spoilt for choice. You can add tens of thousands to the bottom line of any 5-Series model.

Some of our favorites:

  • The freshly introduced Premium Package that adds entry-level luxury conveniences such as heated seats and exterior chrome accents.
  • Two levels of driving assistance add confidence to safety features or semi-autonomous driving features that can pilot the car for less than a minute.
  • The latest version of BMW’s infotainment system, iDrive, incorporates wireless CarPlay, which is hugely useful.
  • At $4,200 the Bowers & Wilkins stereo might be the most expensive car stereo system on the planet, but it happens to travel in one of the nicest packages.

We would, however, skip the optional gesture control, which uses a gaggle of sensors that watch for hands and fingers to change volume, skip tracks by circling, waving, or otherwise gesturing the touchscreen. While fascinating from a technical standpoint, in practice it’s little more than a gimmick.

It’s also refreshing to note that BMW has retained its large rotary controller and a series of shortcut buttons for the iDrive, both of which make it easy to navigate through functions when on the move.

Finally, a word for the optional and excellent head-up display, which projects a full-color representation of the speedometer and satnav on to the windscreen. BMW has long been at the front of the field for such systems, and the 5-series is no different.

Safety

Not all the safety data for the 2018 BMW 5-series is in but what’s available is good so far! All models have six airbags and an autonomous emergency braking system that can automatically apply the brakes if it thinks you are going to collide with another vehicle or pedestrian.

BMW’s Driving Assistant option bundles together most of the safety features you could wish for – lane departure warning, blind spot monitors, and automatic closing of windows and sunroof in an emergency braking situation to ensure occupants are protected as much as possible.

The Verdict

Is the BMW 5-series the best car in the world? Certainly, one of the top contenders, thanks to an amazing combination of performance, ride comfort, luxury, indulgence, and technology that edge it ahead of its key rivals. By any measure, it’s a truly outstanding machine that worth every penny!