G. David Felt
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Everything posted by G. David Felt
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Total loss including what they wrote off in their global operations around the world hit $28 billion, the largest ever. Course it does not help propping up old brands that were brought back but still cannot stand on their own like Alfa, Maserati, etc. The Italian brands just have never had quality nor been desired by the bulk of the world. -
I am all for the second amendment rights, I always protect my family, friends and neighbors first against someone who does intend violence. Yet based on the stupidity we have seen in the south with guns, I also feel one needs to have some common sense. Course my response was sarcastic which clearly failed to come across here, but I do remember these stupid folks who were out threatening as a peaceful protest walked by their house.
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I agree that it does have far more space inside than a GLS, Escalade or any other full size SUV. Still feel that the Minivan scene would take off more if they were styled like an SUV and had AWD. I see now more of the Kia Minivan around the Seattle area than Chrysler, Toyota, or Honda and people I talk with love the style plus all the room inside. As @Drew Dowdell pointed out, I do hear that others wish the stow and go seats would be incorporated into other makes. I have to figure there is a patent issue or some legal issue as to why Honda, Toyota, Kia have not done it yet.
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Interesting comparison of the two newest fully electric AWD Minivans from Buick and Mercedes to this.
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From the album: 2026 Buick Electra ENCASA
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The 2026 Buick Electra ENCASA is a three-row luxury electric MPV built for the Chinese market, starting at $70,986. It pairs a 96 kWh battery with a 900V charging system capable of 640 kW peak output and 373 miles of range, wrapped in aviation-inspired styling with a 207-inch body and a three-row interior finished in Nappa leather. Read the 2026 Buick Electra ENCASA coverage
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Kia has not stated what the starting prices will be here yet, but pricing in Europe and Asia and other markets have the EV3 very cheap. Today in Europe, the EV3 starts at $33,000 Euros which is $38,029.00 in USD. I realize that the Seltos starts $10,000 less than the EV3, but still pricing is reasonable I feel.
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Mazda has issued recalls affecting nearly 200,000 vehicles, primarily for wiring faults, suspension issues, and manufacturing defects that could impact safety. Recent and Notable Recalls Mazda3 and CX-3 (2013–2020): Close to 200,000 vehicles were recalled due to a wiring fault that may cause the rearview camera to flicker or display distorted images, increasing the risk of accidents. Owners will be contacted by Mazda when parts are available, and repairs are free of charge. CX-60 and CX-90 (2023–2024): 860 diesel variants were recalled over unspecified issues affecting these SUVs. CX-50 and CX-50 Hybrid (2025): 1,007 units were recalled for front suspension bolts not tightened properly, which could lead to loss of drive power. Mazda3 (2018–2020): Previous recalls included software issues causing false automatic emergency braking and powertrain control module errors that could stall the engine. Other recalls: Some Mazda models, including the Mazda 6, CX-5, CX-9, MX-5, and Mazda 2, have been affected by low-pressure fuel pump cracks and other safety-related defects.
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That is so much better than the Ford Bronco IMHO.
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BOLT 3.0 Minivan style
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To sum it up for the Ford Bronco series: Engine and Mechanical Issues One of the most serious problems involves the 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine, particularly in early Bronco Wildtrak models. Owners have reported sudden engine failures due to faulty valves, which can break and damage the engine block or head, sometimes before 5,000 miles. This issue is linked to a bad batch of valves produced between July and October 2021, and Ford has not issued a recall for it. Other engine concerns include misfires, rough idling, and check engine warnings, often resolved with software updates or sensor replacements. Fuel starvation and incorrect oil dipsticks have also caused engine damage in some cases. Transmission complaints are less severe but include rough shifting at low speeds and delayed engagement from a stop. These issues are usually addressed with software updates or recalibration. Electrical and Software Problems Electrical issues are common, including warning lights activating without cause, infotainment system glitches, and sensor errors. While these rarely prevent driving, they can lead to frequent dealership visits and affect owner confidence. Lane-keeping assist, traction control, and brake system alerts may also appear unexpectedly, particularly in newer models. Build Quality and Exterior Concerns Owners report hardtop defects, such as cracking, delamination, and poor fit, especially in early removable hardtops. Ford has replaced some early hardtops with the updated MIC 2.0 version under warranty, but issues like honeycombing or leaks may persist. Other build-quality complaints include interior rattles, loose trim, and water leaks around roof panels. Recalls and Safety Concerns The 2021 and 2022 Bronco models experienced multiple recalls and NHTSA complaints, including airbag sensor malfunctions, seatbelt latch problems, and windshield breakage. The 2022 model had nine recalls affecting over 175,000 vehicles, while the 2023 model had eight recalls with safety concerns like child safety lock malfunctions. Later models, such as 2023–2024, show fewer recalls and improved reliability. To sum up the Wrangler issues: Engine Problems: Certain models, with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, experienced oil contamination, misfires, rough idling, and valve timing issues, sometimes leading to engine seizure. Electrical and Steering Issues: JL models had frame welding defects, “death wobble” steering problems, and Uconnect infotainment glitches, which were mostly resolved by mid-2019. Rust and Frame Integrity: Older TJ models (1997–2006) are praised for mechanical simplicity but may suffer from rust and frame issues, especially in regions with heavy road salt use. Recalls: Wranglers have had recalls for airbags, power steering, and, in 2025, fire risks in 4xe plug-in hybrid models.
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Lexus News: 2026 Lexus ES Launches with EV First, Hybrid to Follow
G. David Felt replied to G. David Felt's topic in Lexus
I get what your saying, but that belt line is just so bunker look and I hate it. -
VW News: All-New 2027 Volkswagen Atlas Debuts in New York
G. David Felt replied to Drew Dowdell's topic in Volkswagen
Nice update, wonder how the interface will be as the biggest drawback to VW products have been the glacial slow UI. Then this whole approach of big auto's with tiny turbo motors, not a fan of at all. -
This is interesting Please, please, please don't show this report about Trump's economy to your MAGA-supporting family (unless you want to start a fight) April Boycotts According to the People’s Union USA, the following corporations are now part of its permanent blackout list: Amazon Target Walmart Home Depot Starbucks CBS List of companies being boycotted in April Donald Trump's Poll Numbers On The Economy Are Breaking Records For Reasons He's Realllllly Not Gonna Like
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Watch out for the gun toting nut who will protect their house by shooting first, asking questions later imho.
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Lexus News: 2026 Lexus ES Launches with EV First, Hybrid to Follow
G. David Felt replied to G. David Felt's topic in Lexus
I kinda feel that the green house has that high belt line like the Camero and that is a turn off for me. When you look at the side profile, I feel the doors go up way too high, small glass. -
Yes, starting this year with the estimated 1.2 million EVs coming back from Lease and continuing next year and the year after. The estimate is north of 3 million low mileage EVs coming back from lease. I do agree with one thing that Edmunds stated and that is make sure to see the battery report for how much L3 versus L2 or 1 charging is done. An EV with mostly L2 charging will be way better for battery life than a mostly L3 charged EV.
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@A Horse With No Name I can see you in this with AWD for your EV. Charges are on par with the Subaru, only difference is compact versus full size that Subaru just revealed at NY auto show. Course if you do not mind a certified used, one of the EV9's coming back off lease with low miles are a value deal to get and then your at 800V with 18min charges to 80%.
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This will sell well for the dealers as the only Chrysler product they have to sell. Great to see AWD as an option to compete against Toyota. Wish Kia had their SUV looking Minivan with AWD. @Drew Dowdell Any mention of a Hybrid version as I do not see anything on this.
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So happy to see this, my only head shake is the 400V technology. At a time when they could like the Koreans leap frog Tesla big time on such a large EV, this one should have been 800V technology to handle true DC Fast Charging. Excited to see another 3 row adult size EV SUV hit the market.
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While I wish this was 800V, I totally get the point of being a 400V EV. I can see my daughter moving to this over her current EV.
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I will expect to see lots of these on Washington roads and up at the passes for winter sports.
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Very cool, probably far more reliable than the Ford Bronco's.
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That is a very sharp upgrade compared to the old version.
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Buick has teased the Electra name for decades, Buick has now chosen to create a sub-brand for Buick in China called Electra and with this, their flagship product is the Electra ENCASA. This is an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) minivan that will define the 21st century of Buick for luxury transport and family use. The ENCASA MPV has a starting price of $70,986 U.S. dollars and comes with GM's latest charging system, a 900V 6C ultra-fast electrical system enhanced for safety and refined ownership experience with the latest in electric technologies. This global MPV has been paired with what GM says will become their new standard for electric vehicles. Buick Electra ENCASA Details The Advanced Electric Performance and Charging System has the following details: 900V 6C Ultra-fast Charging system Peak Charging of 640 kW 10% to 80% charging in 11 1/2 minutes 96 kWh battery pack 373 miles of range Design Language from Private Aviation Land Jet Inspired 0.258 Cd low drag coefficient 12-layer two tone paint, delivering an understated, but refined flagship luxury Intelligent Driving, Premium Experience, Ultimate Electric Mobility Safety Driver assistance system built on Momenta R6 learning model Three-row spacious layout focused on comfort for all passengers using premium materials consistent with a flagship position 78% high-strength steel ratio for body structure, engineered to meet global standards ENCASA Proportions 124-inch wheelbase Overall length 207 inches Overall Height 80 inches Overall width 72 inches ENCASA has seven-mode adaptive crystal LED headlights and a signature through-body taillight with 257 ultra-red LEDs enhance visibility and on-road presence. ENCASA's ceremonial air suspension enables the vehicle to lower by 2 1/2-inches, delivering the lowest entry height in its class. Together with gesture-controlled sliding doors and full-vehicle hospitality modes, ENCASA extends luxury beyond the cabin itself. The interior only uses high-end full grain Nappa leather, ultra-suede headliners and Australian wool carpet. This is the start as the ENCASA has a Buick first, multi-posture zero-gravity seats. This is able to maximize the usable 37-inches of interior cabin length floor space. If one buys the Luxury with executive package, you can enjoy a "Chaise Longue" experience with 8-mode, 10-point massage, full-area heating and on-touch rest mode comfort. All seating comes standard with floating layer seat cushions composed of mother-and-baby-grade pearl-cotton padding. From third row sliding seats, 49 storage locations or at little as 22 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats to a cavernous 73 cubic feet of space with the second and third row seats folded down. The ENCASA can handle any hauling needs one might have. ENCASA introduces the industry-first five-constant wellness cabin, delivering a balanced, science-driven in-vehicle environment: Constant Temperature: Dual-layer, multi-zone climate regulation. Constant Humidity: Automatic 40-60% humidity control. Constant Oxygen: Twin-layer fresh-air circulation that maintains low CO2 levels. Constant Cleanliness: Panasonic nanoe X purification, AQS detection, PM2.5 filtration and low-allergen materials. Constant Quietness: Extensive acoustic treatments and ANC create a serene environment. AI Advanced Digital Luxury Integration for ENCASA Powered by Qualcomm's SA8775P platform delivering 72 TOPS of AI compute, ENCASA offers Buick's most immersive digital experience yet: 50-inch panoramic AR-HUD integrating more than 15 sets of driving information Three connected 16.3-inch displays for driver, front passenger and infotainment 21-inch 4K rear entertainment screen Bose premium audio system Cabin-wide gesture control via OMS camera Dual 5.5-inch smart control panels for second-row passengers AI voice assistant with four-zone recognition, 700+ commands and creative AI capabilities These features allow families to enjoy movies, gaming, karaoke or personalized scene modes with seamless multi-screen interaction. 18-5.mp4 See all photos in the 2026 Buick Electra ENCASA photo gallery. More Buick Coverage Buick Electra Sub-Brand Launches in China with the Electra GS Concept Tariff Tuesday: Buick Killing it in China; Killed in the U.S. Buick Electra EV Path Becomes Clear
