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New vehicles in the heart of Los Angeles
© NewspressThe 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show has opened its doors, with a wide variety of new cars on display in downtown LA. Being held at the LA Convention Center between November 17 and 26, more than 1,000 vehicles are on show.
Although not all car manufacturers are taking part in this year’s event, the LA Auto Show still has plenty of brand new cars and concepts to see. These include many electrified vehicles and numerous SUVs.
Join us for a look at some of the latest models we discovered on the show floor.
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2025 Lucid Gravity
© Motoring ResearchOne of the biggest debuts at the 2023 LA Auto Show is the Lucid Gravity. Following on from the Lucid Air – winner of the 2023 World Luxury Car Award – the Gravity is a high-performance electric SUV.
Lucid has created a new platform for the Gravity, with 900-volt architecture and the most power-dense electric motors in production. The result is a 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds, combined with a predicted battery range in excess of 440 miles. Some 200 miles of range can be added in 15 minutes with the right charger.
Air suspension will be optional to boost off-road ability, with the Gravity offering 6,000 lb (2,722 kg) of towing capability.
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2025 Lucid Gravity
© Motoring ResearchDesigned to be a three-row SUV, the Lucid Gravity provides space for up to seven adults inside. The second- and third-row seats can be folded flat to increase cargo capacity, plus there is a substantial frunk.
Interior technology will include a 34-inch curved OLED ‘Clearview Cockpit’ display, said to float above the steering wheel in the driver’s eyeline. A new glass center console is designed to slide open for additional storage.
Lucid plans to start production of the Gravity in late 2024, and predicts a starting price of less than $80,000 for the entry-level version.
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2023 Kia Concept EV3 and Concept EV4
© Motoring ResearchElectric power undoubtedly looks like the future, with Kia bringing two new concept EVs to the Los Angeles show.
The Concept EV3 channels the larger EV9 flagship SUV, with bold styling and a practical interior. Kia says the cabin promotes emotional wellbeing, thanks to mood lighting and a minimalist dashboard layout.
With the Concept EV4, Kia is making it clear that the sedan is not dead quite yet. However, it does take a radical approach to four-door design, with a low nose and long tail. On the inside, the climate control panel of the EV4 can be stored in the center console when not required.
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2024 Kia Sorento
© Motoring ResearchBack to the present, Kia has updated the fourth-generation Sorento SUV for the 2024 model year. The biggest changes are new vertically stacked headlamps, along with a deeper front grille and bolder hood design inspired by the larger Kia Telluride SUV.
Kia has added a new X-Pro trim to the range, with a larger towing capacity and extra off-road capability. The 17-inch alloy wheels are fitted with BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, while Jungle Green and Roadrider paint colors are available.
The updated 2024 Sorento will initially come with gasoline engines, with hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions joining the revised range later next year.
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2024 Kia EV9
© Motoring ResearchKia first revealed the EV9 electric SUV as a concept during the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show. Now, two years later, it is back in full production form.
The three-row SUV offers seating for seven, with plenty of interior space, plus the option of second-row power-adjustable seats with leg extensions, heating and ventilation.
Buyers can pick between 76.1 kWh or 99.8 kWh battery packs. The larger battery can also be specified with all-wheel drive, delivering a combined output of 379 hp and 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.3 seconds.
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2024 Hyundai Santa Fe
© Motoring ResearchAnnounced earlier this year, the LA Auto Show is the first time American consumers have seen the new Hyundai Santa Fe in the metal. The fifth-generation car boasts radical styling, a longer wheelbase with standard third-row seating, and a larger tailgate said to create a ‘terrace-like view’.
A 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 277 hp comes as standard, with a 232 hp 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid on the options list. Hyundai has also revealed a new off-road-focused XRT model, which has additional ground clearance.
The interior comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, over-the-air software updates and even the option of a UV-C sterilization compartment for the glovebox.
Hyundai will continue to build the Santa Fe in Alabama for the North American market.
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2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
© Motoring ResearchThe LA Auto Show sees Hyundai reveal its first all-electric N performance model to a North American audience. With a combined power output of up to 641 hp from its two electric motors, the Ioniq 5 N comes with all-wheel drive and rally-inspired ‘Corner Rascal’ capabilities.
Using N Launch Control, and maximum power from the N Grin Shift mode, the Ioniq 5 N can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.25 seconds. Top speed is limited to 162 mph, while there is even an N Drift Optimizer for sideways action on-track.
Special N styling inside and out is included, along with a larger 84 kWh battery pack. North American sales begin in March 2024.
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2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition
© Motoring ResearchThere is also another new version of the Hyundai Ioniq on display. Revealed as a concept earlier this year at the New York Auto Show, the production version of the Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is on display in LA.
It made a glitzy appearance last month during ‘Dancing with the Stars’, as part of a special Disney100 celebration.
As the North American automotive sponsor of the Disney100 centenary, Hyundai has created a bespoke version of this family EV. The Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is set to go on sale in early 2024.
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2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition
© Motoring ResearchThe exterior of the Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition gains a special Gravity Gold Matte paint color, along with a wheel design said to be inspired by Disney.
Disney100 Platinum badges are found on the bodywork, with the same logo used on the floor mats and front seat headrests. There are also Disney-inspired designs covering the front and rear interior door trims.
When the Ioniq 5 is turned on, the infotainment system plays the iconic Disney theme tune, along with showing the Disney logo and a sprinkle of pixie dust.
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Hyundai and Amazon
© Motoring ResearchA major partnership between Hyundai and Amazon was announced in LA. The online retail giant plans to start vehicle sales in 2024, and Hyundai will be the first brand available to purchase. Customers should be able to search for cars in their local area, then check out finance options.
Hyundai has also chosen Amazon AWS as its preferred cloud storage partner, and will also work to integrate Amazon Alexa into its products from 2025 onwards.
The two companies collaborated previously. In 2016, Amazon users were able to schedule test drives of the Hyundai Elantra, having the car delivered straight to their home or workplace.
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2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe
© Motoring ResearchAlong with unveiling an updated GV80 SUV, Genesis has also revealed the first GV80 Coupe. Intended to compete against the BMW X6 and Audi Q8, the GV80 Coupe boasts curvier styling and a greater focus on driving dynamics.
The rear of the GV80 Coupe comes with a unique LED light design, with a wide auxiliary brake light nestled beneath a curved rear spoiler. MLA-powered headlamps and a double-layered Crest Grille can be found at the front.
The GV80 Coupe will offer a choice of engine options, including a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 that features an electric supercharger. This combination makes for a substantial 409 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque.
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2025 Genesis GV80 SUV
© Motoring ResearchGenesis has also given its GV80 SUV an update for the 2025 model year, marking its first changes to the midsize crossover in three years.
Like the GV80 Coupe, it benefits from a new double-layered grille that is flanked by distinctive split headlamps. New chrome trim extends along the sides of the GV80, plus there are two fresh alloy wheel designs to choose from.
Genesis has updated the wireless smartphone charging tray inside the GV80, along with redesigning the crystal-like shift-by-wire controller.
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2023 Honda Prelude Concept
© Motoring ResearchOne of the big surprises at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show was the appearance of the Honda Prelude Concept. Also displayed at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, the reborn Prelude points to Honda’s plan to produce sports cars with electrified powertrains. The company claims that it wants to advance the ‘joy of driving’.
Its appearance comes 45 years after the first-generation Honda Prelude started production in November 1978. Initially sold in Japan, international sales of the original Prelude commenced shortly afterwards.
Notably, the 1978 Prelude was the first Honda model to be sold with a moonroof.
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2023 Honda Prelude Concept
© Motoring ResearchAlthough the Prelude Concept looks remarkably production-ready, Honda has not commented on its powertrain details – or if it will actually be available to buy.
The Honda Prelude was made across five generations, with the last model rolling off the production line in October 2001.
For now, Honda plans to begin sales of its first all-electric SUV, the Prologue, in early 2024.
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2025 Toyota Camry
© Motoring ResearchHeading towards an impressive ninth generation, the 2025 Toyota Camry will use the same platform as the current model but brings all-new styling to the popular sedan.
The biggest change is Toyota’s hybrid engine range being used for all models. This sees the 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine combined with an electric motor, delivering 225 hp in front-wheel-drive form, or 232 hp for all-wheel-drive versions.
Styled by Toyota’s studios in California and Michigan, the new Camry will go on sale in early 2024.
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2025 Toyota Crown Signia
© Motoring ResearchToyota has also used the LA Auto Show to reveal the first Crown Signia – the crossover SUV counterpart to the existing Toyota Crown sedan.
The 2025 Crown Signia will be solely offered with Toyota’s hybrid powertrain, combined with on-demand all-wheel drive as standard. With a total of 243 hp, the Crown Signia is expected to deliver an average of 36 mpg.
When the Crown Signia joins the range in the summer of 2024, Toyota will have a total of 19 electrified models in its American lineup.
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2025 Subaru Forester
© Motoring ResearchThe Subaru Forester compact crossover SUV has been around since 1997, being produced across five generations. Now, Subaru has announced an all-new sixth generation of the Forester, with a refreshed exterior design and additional safety equipment.
Compact LED headlights frame a bold front grille, the latter seeing the debut of Subaru’s updated star cluster logo. A redesigned tailgate promises improved cargo capacity, and comes with the option of kick sensor-operated opening.
Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance system has also received an update, with the ability to identify cyclists and pedestrians more quickly at intersections.
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2025 Subaru Forester
© Motoring ResearchAll versions of the new 2025 Subaru Forester will come equipped with a 2.5-liter flat-four Boxer engine, offering 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system is standard, and is combined with its Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Active torque vectoring is designed to offer greater agility, with the Forester gaining a version of the WRX’s dual-pinion electric power steering rack.
Subaru will offer the 2025 Forester in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring trim levels, with sales commencing early in 2024.
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2024 Ford Mustang GT California Special
© Motoring ResearchWith the Mustang heading towards its 60th anniversary, Ford has brought back a classic name to the seventh-generation model range. The California Special package adds Rave Blue trim to the exterior and interior, aiming to make this Mustang stand out on the highway.
Rave Blue can also be found on the front grille, special side graphics and on the two 19-inch alloy wheel options. On the inside, perforated Navy Pier upholstery and Ebony Black leather upholstery is used, featuring dual-color contrast stitching with Raptor Blue and Metal Gray threads.
Offered as a $1,995 option for the Mustang GT Premium, the California Special package can be added to Coupe and Convertible body styles with either the six-speed manual gearbox or 10-speed automatic transmission.
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2024 Ford Mustang GTD
© Motoring ResearchAs part of its plans to take the Mustang to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Ford has created a supercar version of its legendary pony car. The GTD is a rival to the likes of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, and features an active aerodynamics package for maximum performance.
Under the hood is a 5.2-liter supercharged V-8, expected to generate more than 800 hp. This will be combined with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, with carbon ceramic brakes and titanium exhaust system on the options list.
Production of the GTD will start late in 2024, with an expected price tag of $300,000 for the most extreme version of the Ford Mustang to date.
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2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally
© Motoring ResearchA Rally version of the all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E was revealed at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The first EV inspired by rallying, it offers an increased ride height and 19-inch motorsport-style alloy wheels.
Other changes include a front fascia with integrated fog lights, underbody protection for the front and rear motors, and a large rear spoiler influenced by the Focus RS.
Ford expects the Mach-E Rally to deliver more than 480 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, and it will feature a special RallySport Drive Mode.
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2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E Tjin Edition Safari Concept
© Motoring ResearchFollowing its debut at the recent 2023 Speciality Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, the Tjin Edition Mustang Mach-E Safari Concept is on display in LA.
Custom bodywork sees the Mach-E’s stance widened significantly, plus it gains a sizable front lighting pod. A Thule roof platform holds a spare wheel and sand rails, with a Warn winch attached to the front bumper.
On the inside are Recaro Sport C bucket seats, which are combined with racing harnesses.
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2024 Ford Bronco Raptor Code Orange
© Motoring ResearchHelping the Ford Bronco celebrate its 58th birthday, the Code Orange package brings extra vividness to both the interior and exterior of this performance SUV.
The body of the Bronco Raptor gains special Code Orange graphics, with the 17-inch beadlock alloy wheels also finished in the bright color. Contrasting with the silver underbody protection plates are Code Orange tow hooks, too.
On the inside, Code Orange seat belts can be combined with either Black Onyx or Blue with Black Onyx upholstery.
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2024 Ford Bronco Sport Free Wheeling
© Motoring ResearchNot all the attention is on the Bronco Raptor, however, with the smaller Bronco Sport also receiving updates for 2024. These include the return of the groovy Free Wheeling package, seen on classic Bronco models in the 1970s.
Like the originals, the Bronco Sport Free Wheeling features reflective red, orange, yellow and silver graphics on the body sides, hood and tailgate. A new silver-painted grille with a two-tone Bronco badge is included, too.
On the inside, a Black Onyx and Dark Space Grey finish includes sunset-colored seat inserts. Groovy indeed.
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2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
© NewspressMore shocking than making the eighth-generation Corvette mid-engined, perhaps, the 2024 E-Ray sees the sports car become a hybrid with all-wheel drive.
Combining the existing 6.2-liter V-8 engine with a 160 hp front-mounted electric motor means a total output of 655 hp. With power going to all four wheels, the Corvette E-Ray can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. This makes it the quickest accelerating street-legal Corvette to date.
With pure-electric ‘Stealth Mode’ engaged, the E-Ray can reach speeds of up to 45 mph.
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2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV
© NewspressIntended to be Chevrolet’s affordable electric crossover SUV, the Equinox EV adds to the company’s range of battery-powered vehicles.
Offered in front- and all-wheel-drive formats, the FWD version of the Equinox EV boasts a potential range of up to 319 miles. Standard DC fast-charging capability means 70 miles of range can be added in just 10 minutes.
Chevrolet plans to put the Equinox EV on sale for the 2024 model year. Prices will begin from $34,995 in base specification.
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2024 Volkswagen ID.7
© NewspressVolkswagen is using the LA Auto Show to display its expanded range of electric models, including the all-new ID.7 liftback sedan. It marks the first time Volkswagen has offered an EV model in this market segment, with the ID.7 aimed at long-distance cruising. Sales will begin in the second half of 2024, with multiple models on offer.
Choosing the ID.7 with the larger 85 kWh battery pack means an official range of up to 386 miles, based upon European testing. With 282 hp and 402 lb-ft, the ID.7 is also the most powerful electric Volkswagen to date.
To aid highway travel, Volkswagen will offer the ID.7 with adaptive suspension damping, along with seats that feature heating, cooling and a massage function.
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2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz
© NewspressEuropean Volkswagen enthusiasts have had access to the retro-styled ID.Buzz minivan for more than a year, but American fans will need to keep waiting until fall 2024.
However, the delayed launch will see North America receive a longer-wheelbase version of the ID.Buzz, featuring three rows of seats. American customers also receive three unique color options, and the ID.Buzz will have the options of an electrochromic panoramic sunroof and multicolor ambient lighting.
A 91 kWh battery pack is standard, with the choice of a 282 hp rear-wheel-drive powertrain, or a 330 hp all-wheel-drive model.
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2024 Volkswagen ID.4
© NewspressOriginally introduced in 2021, Volkswagen has updated the ID.4 electric SUV for the 2024 model year.
Key updates include a more powerful powertrain, combined with an 82 kW battery. Like the ID.Buzz, it comes with the options of 282 hp in rear-wheel-drive format, or 330 hp with all-wheel drive. Volkswagen has also given the ID.4 an upgraded interior, with a new 12.9-inch infotainment display and (finally!) illuminated climate control sliders.
The ID.4 continues to be produced at Volkswagen’s production facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
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Kevin Hart Collection
© Motoring ResearchThere are more than just new cars on display in Los Angeles. Among all the modern metal are many modified classics, including those owned by comedian and actor Kevin Hart.
The 2023 LA Auto Show sees nine vehicles from Hart’s extensive collection on display, including this customized 1966 Pontiac GTO Convertible nicknamed “Money”.
Other highlights of the collection include a 1969 Plymouth Roadrunner, 1970 Dodge Charger and a brand new Ferrari 812 Competizione.