The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid will round out the refreshed model lineup.
While the standard gas-powered Sorentos are already on sale, we’ve had a bit of a gap where if you wanted a hybrid, you had to buy the old pre-facelift model. That’s changing for the 2025 model year, in which the Sorento Hybrid will get the same range of updates. That said, prices for this new version are going up substantially, between $1,700 on the low end and a whopping $4,100 at the upper echelon.
Before getting into the trim walk, it’s worth noting that Sorento Hybrid models are powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine mated to an electric motor. Together, they manage 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, which places it between the standard 191-horsepower gas model and the more potent 281-horsepower variants. Hybrid models get a 6-speed automatic transmission instead of a CVT.
The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid lineup still starts off with the EX trim, which now comes in at $40,065 to start. That’s a fairly hefty $1,700 increase, while the AWD version now starts at $41,865, or a $1,200 up-charge over the standard FWD EX.
Unlike the gas version, the Hybrid only comes in one other trim: the all-wheel drive-only SX Prestige. This is the trim that really sees a hike, as the $48,265 starting price is now $4,100 higher than it was for 2024. The SX Prestige trim adds more advanced features to the mix, including a curved panoramic display panel with dual 12.3-inch screens, a suede headliner, ventilated front seats and Kia’s Advanced Digital Key 2.0 functionality.
Kia pegs the 2025 Sorento Hybrid’s fuel economy at 36 mpg combined for front-wheel drive models.
Today’s announcement is actually the first among the 2025 Sorento models, so we still have to wait to see whether gas models are also getting an increase, as well as MSRP information for the plug-in hybrid. That should arrive soon, as Sorento Hybrid models should start rolling out to dealers and customers soon.
While we still don’t have every little detail, we do know how what options you’ll be able to pick for your ID. Buzz.
We’ve been waiting for years at this point for Volkswagen to finally, finally introduce the U.S.-specific version of its funky electric take on its classic Microbus. On Monday, though, the automaker revealed details on the trim walk, laying out three different configurations in which you’ll be able to order the 2025 ID. Buzz when it lands at dealers nationwide this July.
There aren’t any curve balls, of course, but this announcement does confirm that the company will, in fact, broadly follow the ID.4 as far as the rollout is concerned. The 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz will launch with Pro S and Pro S Plus versions, plus a launch-only 1st Edition model. A single-motor, rear-wheel drive configuration will be the default setup, though you will be able to spec it with a dual-motor, all-wheel drive system.
All ID.Buzz models utilize a 91-kWh battery system (a decent size-up over the ID.4’s 82-kWh unit), and get 20-inch wheels, 30-color ambient lighting, and a 12.9-inch infotainment system as standard equipment. Buyers can opt for captain’s chairs, an electrochromatic glass roof, a head-up display, a flexboard cargo system, 360-degree camera and Harman/Kardon audio system as options.
By default, Pro S models (which are RWD only) get 282 horsepower, while 4Motion AWD variants get a boost to 335 horsepower. Pro S Plus and 1st Edition models will offer both RWD and AWD options. Range and pricing details are still a couple pieces we’re missing to complete this picture — VW says those details will be available in the coming weeks, closer to launch.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz 1st Edition gets some special touches over the standard models, as you’d expect. Unique 20-inch wheels, roof rail cross bars, a coastal-themed interior and “heritage-inspired” floor mats and most of the options mentioned above come as standard kit on the 1st Edition.
It is a fact that millions of people who visit Florida each year need to accept that car accidents are a common occurrence in this part of the world, with thousands of crashes taking place each year. Awareness of the state’s distinctive no-fault insurance system and knowing the best car accident lawyers in Florida is critical for drivers who have been involved in an accident. Florida is one of just a few states that use a no-fault system, a system that has substantial consequences for how automobile claims and legal actions proceed following an auto accident.
Florida’s No-Fault System Overview
The purpose of Florida’s no-fault system is to guarantee that all those who are injured in car crashes receive the necessary medical attention as well as payment for lost salaries irrespective of who is at fault for the accident. This system is designed to minimize the amount of litigation caused by car accidents because each driver must have personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which takes care of that driver’s injuries and lost earnings no matter who is at fault.
PIP in a Nutshell
PIP (personal injury protection) is a Florida mandatory insurance coverage. PIP insurance pays for injuries and lost wages caused by a car accident of the policyholder and within his policy limit. PIP benefits are paid no matter who was responsible for the accident, hence the term “no-fault.”
The No-Fault Exception of Florida
Despite that the no-fault system of Florida aims to facilitate receiving compensation after a car accident, there are exceptions permitting drivers to bring legal actions against at-fault drivers. Where the injuries acquired in a car accident are considered “serious” under Florida law, the injured party can file a lawsuit to pursue more compensation from the person responsible within the PIP insurance limit.
Claims Management in a No-Fault Insurance System
PIP claim in Florida is rather simple to file. In the case of a car accident, the drivers are supposed to notify their insurance company of the accident and seek medical care within 14 days in order to benefit from PIPs. The claim will be processed and benefits paid as per the policy terms by the insurance company.
Challenges and Critiques of the No-Fault System
However, as with any system, there are benefits as well as challenges and criticisms and the no-fault system is no exception. The major criticism of the no-fault system is the limitation imposed on the victims who suffer from severe or long-term injuries by the system in pursuit of maximum compensation for their injuries. In addition, some critics claim that a no-fault system can cause drivers to have drivers have higher premiums, as the insurance companies will pass the cost of PIP benefits to the policyholders.
Changes of Law and New Trends
Over the last few years, there have been several efforts to change the no-fault system in Florida. For instance, in 2012 the state legislature enacted a law intended to combat fraud and abuse in the PIP system through the implementation of more rigid rules governing medical service providers and capping benefits payable for select injury types. The outcomes of these changes have been controversial, some claim that the changes have reduced fraud, while others believe that they have deprived accident victims of receiving the necessary care.
Tips for Navigating Florida’s No-Fault System
Knowing Florida’s no-fault system is vital for drivers in the state to be properly covered when involved in a car accident. Here are some tips for navigating Florida’s no-fault system:
Know Your Policy: Gain knowledge of all the aspects of your PIP insurance policy, including the limits of coverage and the exclusions that may be in place.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly: If you are involved in a car accident and you are injured, get medical help immediately even if you think your injuries are minor. This will not only make sure you get the treatment you require but will also make your PIP claim stronger.
Document Everything: Maintain complete records of any medical treatment you receive as a result of a car accident and any other losses related to the injury. This information will be useful in case you have to sue the at-fault driver.
Consider Legal Advice: If you are not sure about your rights under Florida’s no-fault system and suspect that you may have a claim for more compensation than that provided by PIP insurance, seek the legal advice of a competent car accident attorney.
The no-fault system of Florida is a complicated legal structure that regulates the way in which car accidents are dealt with in the state. The system has its advantages and disadvantages and comprehension of how the system functions is crucial for drivers in Florida. Drivers can achieve the assurance of being adequately covered in the event of a car accident by getting acquainted with the main features of the Florida no-fault system and opting for legal advice, when necessary.
The first question comes from a Chevy fan who is upset that the Chevrolet Malibu is being discontinued, and blames us for its departure.
Q (YouTube): I know for a fact that outlets like TFL are responsible for the Chevrolet Malibu being cancelled.
Dismissing the Chevrolet Malibu and refusing to review it like everyone else made it unknown to buyers. It’s cancel culture like this that makes you so incompetent. How many times did you review the Malibu despite it competing against the Toyota Camry you reviewed hundreds of times.
The Chevrolet Malibu is fantastic with power and real good economy. The only thing it didn’t have is a hybrid WITH AWD but so what? It was very efficient and my 2019 is over 100,000 miles with absolutely no problems!
It’s not just you and your pack of clowns that are at fault and I can name tons of other journalists who are just as guilty. You all have bias against Chevy and it just cost Americans jobs. I hope you can sleep well at night!
– Ken_KoolAid
A: Sleeping fine Ken, thanks.
First of all, I opted to count the easiest-to-find video reviews of the Chevrolet Malibu that TFLcar produced. There were about a dozen, which means that we averaged more than one per year over a decade. That doesn’t count the posts we wrote here on TFLcar.com. In addition, there haven’t been that many changes over the past few years, which means we don’t have new info to offer viewers.
“…the Malibu hasn’t fared as badly as Ford’s Fusion and Taurus sedans did before they’re demise, as the company still sold 32,749 in the first quarter of 2024 (again, thank fleet sales for that). Nevertheless, that only represents 8.4% of Chevrolet’s overall quarterly sales, where SUVs and trucks now reign supreme as the brand already killed off the Impala and the Sonic for the North American market in 2020.”
Fleet sales, low overall consumer desire (8.4% of overall sales is poor), and the fact that GM wants to plant for the next Chevrolet Bolt – that seems to be a factor too. Rather than lash out about the failure of your sedan with GM, blaming us for its demise – perhaps you should ask yourself a simple question: “Which U.S. automaker is still building sedans?”
Better still: “how many consumers are buying sedans vs SUVs in this market?”
You won’t like the answer.
– N
The last question comes from a viewer who thinks that the proposed tariffs for Chinese tech should be extend to Volvo’s EVs.
Q (via: AskNathan@TFL.com) I used to be a huge Volvo fan. But now with their terrible PR, customer service and snaky sales people, I’m done.
For over 40 years I owned Volvos. At least a dozen. The company changed since they went to China and the terrible staff are part of that change. I think that they are ruined and that they should be responsible for paying chicken tax on electric vehicles. Since they are poorly built Chinese cars.
— RodStewartFan56
A: So far, I think Volvo EVs are quite good.
I have yet to experience the build issues you mentioned. In fact, I spent a week driving through California in a Volvo XC40 Recharge, and it was outstanding. Perfect car for SoCal, and the build quality, performance and overall experience was mighty good. Honestly. Soon, I hope to drive the EX30, which will be among one of the least expensive EVs sold in the United States – for now.
Sure, many companies have a few bad apples representing them, but it can’t be all bad with Volvo right? If you have complaints, I recommend contacting both Volvo and Geely. At least let them know your concerns.
As for tariffs… I do not cover foreign policy, nor do I have a horse in this race. I do know that slamming a company that offers an inexpensive EV in this market will increase the price – which is the point. That bothers me because consumers will suffer. It’s always the buyers who are looking for inexpensive cars that seem to suffer the most.
I wish that would change.
Rather than pointing fingers at organizations like the UAW, the White House and pressure from automakers, I just hope that all parties can find a way not to hurt the consumer.
While we don’t know exactly what it will look like, Lucid’s small SUV will almost certainly resemble the larger Gravity, shown above.
Lucid is facing serious headwinds to ramp up its ambitious plans over the next couple years, as it posted a $598 million loss for the first-quarter of 2024. Despite delivering 39% more units of its Air sedan than it did this time last year (up to 1,967 examples), that relatively small delivery scale and current share prices hovering around $2.60, the market is clearly waiting for the EV startup to make good on its plans to rollout the Gravity SUV later this year. (Lucid Motors CEO Peter Rawlinson says the company is still on track to do that.)
On the earnings call, Rawlinson also confirmed another “high-volume”, smaller SUV to follow the Gravity. Due out in late 2026, this SUV — which may become the “Earth”, based on recent filings with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) discovered by InsideEVs — will ostensibly help Lucid turn a profit by pitching it into direct competition with Tesla at two points in the contentious crossover market. When it does arrive, Lucid’s new model will start “around $48,000”.
“I’m confident that we can achieve unrivaled levels of efficiency for this crucial mid-size class vehicle”, Rawlinson told reporters on the call. When the company does make its way to serial production, it will build customer-bound units at its Advanced Manufacturing Plant 2 (AMP-2) in Saudi Arabia. As such, it’s unlikely the so-called Lucid Earth will have as much of a competitive advantage as the forthcoming Rivian R2 and the Tesla Model Y, as it probably won’t be eligible for the U.S.’ $7,500 federal tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act.
Nevertheless, the company’s plan will bring its price walk closer to Earth (I see what you did there, Lucid) by way of a more affordable entry point. The Air sedan, for its part, starts at $69,900, while the Gravity should start somewhere around $80,000. The company also needs SUVs to thrive in today’s market, as its choice to start large-volume production with a sedan, as Tesla did with the Model S, is not raking in enough cash to make Lucid Motors a profitable venture at this point in time.
We’ll have to see how the Gravity launch proceeds, and if things go well, we may see yet another SUV hit the scenes in a couple years.
After its first competition at 24 Hours of Le Mans in two decades last year, Cadillac will officially make its next attempt at the event on June 15. Before that, though, the company announced No Perfect Formula, a full-length documentary chronicling its return to the sport during the 2023 season.
The minute-and-a-half-long trailer below details a highly produced look at Cadillac Racing’s effort to return to the world’s most recognizable endurance race. It makes a pitch as a battle of the titans between multi-billion dollar car companies and country versus country “fighting for glory”, as the American car brand dukes it out against well-known factory efforts from Acura, BMW, Porsche, Lamborghini and Toyota, among several others. The V-Series.R battles in the global hybrid prototype class that began last year — a class in which Cadillac did take the overall IMSA manufacturer, team and driver’s title in the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
This year, Cadillac’s top-spec racer will compete in that series with two cars, while another one takes on Europe’s FIA World Endurance Championship (which obviously includes 24 Hours of Le Mans as its signature race). The brand’s racing team took third overall last year, but 2024 could be its first chance at victory at Le Mans.
On a historical note, Cadillac did take aim at the 24-hour race in 1950, then again between 2000 and 2002, but did not grab any overall wins in those periods.
Of course, the teaser is meant to get you into the documentary, so it remains to be seen how much of a “warts and all” piece this is for the Cadillac Racing team. You do see some trials and tribulations (read: crashes), but we’ll have to wait until May 31 at 7:00 PM ET to see the whole thing. No Perfect Formula will premiere on Hagerty’s FAST channel #1194 on the Samsung TV Plus app, with additional airings all night on the 31st, then additional airings each Friday in the lead up to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which kicks off June 15 at 10 AM ET.
After announcing the W12’s hybrid successor, Bentley says goodbye to the standalone 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8.
Despite a tougher electric car market and the automaker pushing its first full EV back to 2026, Bentley is still poised to pivot its brand away from large-displacement engines toward hybrid solutions. The company confirmed just yesterday that its long-lived 6.0-liter W12 engine will be replaced by a V8 hybrid powertrain in its new generation of “daily supercars”, but it also confirmed Thursday that its standalone twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 is out the door, as well. At least in its iconic Continental and Flying Spur models, the only way forward for the foreseeable future will be a hybrid option.
For the moment, Bentley only outright declared gas-only V8 options will cease in Europe, the United Kingdom and the Middle East by June. North American customers will be able to order these cars for a little longer, though the manufacturer did say an end-date for the V8 “will follow”.
Of course, even the hybrid option still uses that 4.0-liter V8…it’s just that you won’t be able to get the engine without an electric motor backing it up. To that end, the “new” V8 hybrid setup replacing the definitely-dead W12 will pack 740 horsepower, as well as 50 miles of all-electric driving range using the optimistic (by EPA figures, at least) WLTP standard.
Before we see the new electrified powertrain make its way into the Continental, Bentley’s only car that currently lacks a hybrid option, it officially announced “Edition 8” models of the Continental GT coupe, Continental GTC (convertible) and the Flying Spur sedan. These models are exclusive to the North American market, since we’re the only ones still eligible for V8s in the near future, and bring in a host of Mulliner personal commissioning options. Some special touches include more than 60 colors from the extended paint range, as well as Edition 8 motif throughout the car with bespoke badging, seat embroidery and scuff plates. Sticking with the seats, these limited-run models also get a Palm Fluting pattern that sets them apart from your standard Bentley models.
“Customers in the North American market will be able to secure one of the last, and most lavishly equipped [Edition 8] models”, Bentley says in its official announcement, further noting that deliveries will start “imminently”. The exact details are no less nebulous than that, including how much these special cars will cost. Since these are likely to become collector’s items, though, pricing is almost irrelevant. If you have the scratch to consider a Bentley in the first place, then you’ll probably be able to land one of these.
It’s the end of the road for another long-running American sedan.
American sedans are nearly extinct these days, as icons like the Ford Crown Victoria, Taurus and old-school Dodge Charger have rolled off into the sunset. SUVs have taken over the market, though one long-running marque has quietly carried on since its last revamp for the 2019 model year: the Chevrolet Malibu. After 60 years since the first example rolled off the assembly line, though, General Motors finally confirmed it would kill off its last remaining traditional sedan in November.
So, we will still see the midsize sedan that’s been a favorite among rental fleets continue its run at the Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas City for a few more months. After that, though, it will end Malibu production and pause assembly of the Cadillac XT4, which rolls out of the same plant, until late 2025 to retool for the new Chevy Bolt. (When plant improvements are done, GM will build both the Bolt and the XT4 on the same line). The automaker plans to drop $390 million to support the next-generation Bolt, which will ride on its new Ultium platform, unlike the last model.
GM cites consumer choice — which leans heavily toward cross-overs and large SUVs right now — as the driving force behind the Malibu’s demise. Mind you, the Malibu hasn’t fared as badly as Ford’s Fusion and Taurus sedans did before they’re demise, as the company still sold 32,749 in the first quarter of 2024 (again, thank fleet sales for that). Nevertheless, that only represents 8.4% of Chevrolet’s overall quarterly sales, where SUVs and trucks now reign supreme as the brand already killed off the Impala and the Sonic for the North American market in 2020.
With the Malibu’s departure, the only GM brand that still has sedans anywhere in the product mix is Cadillac. Notably, it’s also the only American luxury brand that still sells sedans at all, as the CT4 and CT5 face no direct rivals from Ford’s Lincoln brand or Chrysler. Stellantis does sell the Alfa Romeo Giulia, a compact executive sedan, but they are exclusively built in Italy.
Will there be a next-generation Malibu?
Buttressing GM’s point on consumers largely preferring SUVs, I’m sure a fair number of you folks out there clicked into this post and thought, “Wait, Chevy still makes the Malibu?”, since it’s been flying so far under the radar.
Reports are somewhat conflicted on whether the company plans to build a direct replacement. At the moment, there’s no direct confirmation, since automakers typically won’t comment on future product on a whim. However, some outlets including GM Authority note a Malibu replacement is in the cards for the 2026 or 2027 model year. If that does happen, then we may only see a single model year gap between the current model, which will get a final 2025 model later this year, and the next-generation version.
The Chevrolet Malibu first debuted back in 1964 as a higher-end model of the Chevelle, and only became its own model in 1978, during the fourth generation. GM initially canceled the Malibu after the 1983 model year, before bringing it back in 1997, as a midsize front-wheel drive car rather than a rear-wheel drive model like the A-Body and G-Body models were.
We’ll have to wait and see whether General Motors ultimately does bring a new Chevy Malibu into existence. Much like its American counterparts and the Subaru Legacy sedan, which is also bowing out after the 2025 model year, I wouldn’t hold my breath given the explosive demand for SUVs.
Roman just bought one of the most hated modern Land Rovers to prove a point: Even this SUV doesn't suck! Or maybe it does...that's what we're going to find out in our latest project series.
In this week’s Ask Nathan:
Adaptive features might be the next step for future pickup trucks?
Will EVs get even faster?
Building trucks with adaptive features...
