Kirk Bell

Nov 20, 2024 | thecarconnection.com | Kirk Bell

What kind of vehicle is the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9? What does it compare to? The Ioniq 9 is a new electric three-row crossover SUV with at least 300 miles of range and seating for up to seven. It competes against the Kia EV9, Rivian R1S, and Tesla Model X. The related Kia EV9 is quite spacious and serves families well, and the Ioniq 9 promises more range and slightly more space. We’ll rate it when we drive it, but it should be a fine family EV.

Nov 14, 2024 | thecarconnection.com | Kirk Bell

A subcompact crossover SUV, the Acura ADX is a new entry model for the brand. It competes with the Audi Q3, BMW X1/X2, and Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. It promises an affordable take on the premium segment, with good space for its size, good safety features, and good looks. We’ll rate it when we drive it next year.

Sep 4, 2024 | thecarconnection.com | Kirk Bell

Jeep Wrangler set the bar for off-roading capabilityFord Bronco is slightly larger, has a more modern suspensionBoth have removable doors and topsThe Jeep Wrangler has been the American benchmark for off-roading capability in the 80-plus years since it was developed for World War II military duty. It had the market to itself for much of that time, but Ford took aim at it for the 2021 model year with a reborn Bronco and hit the mark.

Aug 19, 2024 | thecarconnection.com | Kirk Bell

Midsize pickups can do plenty of work, but they can’t match the capability of their larger, more expensive full-size brothers. When that much capability isn’t needed, midsizers provide a more maneuverable, more affordable alternative. The smaller trucks have plenty of fans, as evidenced by the popularity of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma. Toyota’s midsize truck has a wide range of models, too, including several off-roaders and a hybrid powertrain.

Aug 18, 2024 | thecarconnection.com | Robert Duffer |Martin Padgett |Brian Wong |Kirk Bell

The auto industry is part of the world’s high-tech industry. Automobile technology spans from every part of the vehicle to the assembly line where it’s built, and the most cutting-edge methods are used to make cars more safe, more efficient, and more appealing. Narrowed down to the technology inside the car itself, the most noticeable tech features to the driver can be grouped into three categories: performance, safety, and features.