G. David Felt

1 hour ago, oldshurst442 said:

I like the fact that the G90 Wingback has a loooooong ass wheelbase.   

And this is why it has that loooooong ass wheelbase:

 

Which is fantastic.  But Im not ready to be chauffeured just yet. Maybe when I hit my 60s.  But...looooooong ass wheelbase cars do ride much smoother though. And I like that too.  But my heart belongs to the German...for now. 

Long Ass Wheelbase is what I love about my Escalade and the EV9, smooth ride.

51 minutes ago, oldshurst442 said:

I like this one even more than the CTS V  wagon

With that colour scheme of this year 2025. 

 

 

The 2026 I believe has a refreshed face.  Keeps its V8.   But is a hybrid?  Anyway, I love this wagon and I will probably love it still for 2026. 

Nice, but the Genesis has more Style and a serious performance look that trumps both the Cadillac and the Audi wagons imho.

1 hour ago, Drew Dowdell said:

Purely on appearances... it's the nicest Kia Soul you can buy. 

True, but better than the Jellybean EQ series they have killed off.

In ten short years, Genesis has accomplished much in what has taken legacy brands decades, introducing diverse forms of the Genesis Magma performance line gives us the striking presence of the G90 WINGBACK Concept.

The G90 WINGBACK Concept is built on an unmodified G90 platform with its 126-inch wheelbase and 201-inch length, the Wingback Concept draws out new potential within a familiar platform. Signature Genesis design cues like the Crest Grille, Parabolic Line and the distinctive Two-Line headlamps are intensified, giving the concept an aggressive stance while maintaining an aristocratic demeanor.

According to Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke who drove the WINGBACK out for the reveal, he stated the following:

“At the moment there is, let’s say, a multiplication of SUVs. And this fast growth will create a saturation; this is when other typologies of cars are going to become attractive again. This is why I strongly believe in not having a typology monoculture.”

Donckerwolke went on to say the following about the G90 WINGBACK, the G90 WINGBACK features the Magma insignia on the front bumper, which is the start of a dynamic, wider body style with large lower air intakes and fender flares that house custom 22-inch wheels running low profile tires.

This continues as the WINGBACK carries the parabolic line front to back along the longer wheelbase, the G90 trunk replaced with a roofline that has been stretched to achieve a sleek grand tourer wagon silhouette. The rear tailgate hatch has dual spoilers which help with downward force on the rear wheels enhancing the performance-inspired functional look.

The G90 WINGBACK Concept is finished in a deep metallic green color, showing that Magma has gone outside of the Magma Orange color.

Donckerwolke stated: “Magma is much more than a color; it’s about showing what is possible when Korean innovation meets global ambition. It represents a distinct Korean vision of care, respect and balance. Magma does not shout; it invites, where most chase aggression and extremes, we seek balance. Magma is designed to be rewarding, not challenging; to complement the driver, not to intimidate them.”

The WINGBACK interior highlights the luxury with Magma DNA. A striking, green-colored Magma stitching and details throughout from seats to door trim all have complimenting touches reminding one of a luxury high performance auto. Power waiting to be unleashed as they stated much like Magma bubbling beneath the earths surface.

The duality of power and control wrapped in an elegant package is what the G90 WINGBACK shows in a concept auto. This concept embodies a decade's worth of innovation, acceleration for Genesis into the next chapter of their journey.

No further information has been given in regard to what type of engine is under the hood, some have speculated a tuned version of the existing twin turbo V6 engine. Others have stated that there appears to be enough room under the hood for a naturally aspirated or turbocharged V8.

The WINGBACK will travel the globe helping Genesis get customer input about the style and direction of the Magma lineup.

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Sensual Purity is what Mercedes is calling their all-new Compact GLB SUV that is built for everyday life. Available in a 5- or 7-seater configuration, this new SUV provides more space, greater comfort, with superior capabilities that can only be delivered by an EV / Hybrid design.

Mathias Geisen, Member of the Board of Management, for Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Marketing & Sales stated the following:

"The all-new GLB expands our Entry Luxury portfolio in a particularly powerful way and ushers the iconic Mercedes-Benz design into a new era. With its sculptural proportions, emotional light signature, and modern architectural interior – a SUV with character, sensual and soul."

At launch, the all-electric GLB portfolio comprises the GLB 250+ with EQ Technology and GLB 350 4MATIC with EQ Technology. With up to 392 miles of electric range, the 268-hp GLB 250+ offers a range that is unrivalled in its class. The 349-hp GLB 350 4MATIC is the sporty performance variant at the top of the model range. Both models feature a lithium-ion battery with an 85-kWh usable capacity. The new 800-volt electric architecture enables the new GLB to charge up to 161 miles of range in just ten minutes. The new GLB will be available with either a high-tech hybrid powertrain or pure EV.

The 2026 GLB has the following highlights of functionality:

• Trunk Features
  • Largest frunk in the 800V new EV model family
  • 19.1 cu ft in five-person configuration
    • 60.6 cu ft with rear seats folded down
  • 17 cu ft in seven-person configuration
    • 56.7 cu ft with rear seats folded down
    • 3rd row seating can accommodate passengers up to 5'6" tall
• 4MATIC models get the TERRAIN drive programs
• Optional MB.DRIVE Parking Assist 360 that offers a view of beneath the vehicle via cameras
  • Includes Distance Assist DISTRONIC - A system of eight cameras, five radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors, a water-cooled high-performance supercomputer for superior driving. Additional features will become available, pushed out over OTA or for sale via the Mercedes Digital Store
• 800-volt architecture for fast charging and processing of user desired features
• Optional adaptive suspension for ride comfort and agility
  • DYNAMIC SELECT offers Comfort or Sport mode choices with additional dynamic driving experience to come
• Space and Anchors
  • This all-new GLB now comes with space and anchors that can support four child seats, two more than all other current SUVs on the market
• Optional 48-volt Hybrid high-tech powertrain
  • 1.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine with electric assist in the transmission
    • No FRUNK
    • Turbocharged
  • 1.3 kWh battery pack for pure electric driving at inner city speeds.
• Standard Panoramic roof
  • Optional SKY CONTROL Panoramic roof
    • Ability to go between transparent and opaque within milliseconds
• Standard dual screens for the driver and center stack
  • Optional MBUX Superscreen edge to edge
    • Driver Display is 10.25 inches
    • Center Display is 14 inches
    • Front Passenger display is 14 inches
• Standard assortment of interior and exterior colors, unique ambient choices from the standard trims up to and including the AMG Line and AMG line Plus with Night Package. A large selection of trim elements and upholsteries.
• MB.OS offers the first in-car infotainment system integrating the AI of Microsoft and Google.
• Mercedes standard sound system
  • Optional Burmester 3D Surround Sound System of 16 speakers and 850-watts of power.

• Exterior and Interior dimensions:
• 

GLBs Specifications at a Glance:

The all-new GLB has undergone extreme cold weather testing and extreme heat testing from -40 F to 158 F to ensure that the GLB delivers on what customers have come to expect from Mercedes. This has included speed testing up to the maximum set speed of 124 mph across the full temperature range as well. AMG models are tested up to 165 mph.

The GLB has an innovative Heat Pump system that heats and cools the interior in half the time of the previous GLB models.

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36 minutes ago, trinacriabob said:

Recycling can be aggravating in some places.  I am very far from being a tree hugger, but I'm a big believer in recycling.  When you're in a red state and/or an area where they just don't care, you may not even find the bins for it.  Sometimes I find that I keep my recyclable things in the car until I find some bins.  I couldn't believe how many rest areas in Florida do not have recycling bins, so the junk accumulates in my rental car.  Then, I've been at libraries where they have the separate bins and watched the janitor pick up the trash ... only to watch him just throw all the recyclable stuff in with the regular trash.

Janitors like that piss me off as they are just freaking LAZY!

Seems like the car segment in Europe  has finally joined the rest of the world as car sales tank in the move to SUVs.

https://www.carscoops.com/2025/12/premium-sedan-sales-are-collapsing-in-europe-but-theres-hope/

Kia kicked off celebrating their 80th year in automotive production with a new exhibition in Kia Vision Square in Yongin, Korea.

The celebration looked at where Kia began with their first 3-wheel pickup truck to their 4-door sedans and ended with the reveal of their Vision Meta Turismo Concept car.

Executive Vice President Karim Habib had the following to say about the Vision Meta Turismo Concent:

“The Vision Meta Turismo embodies Kia’s vision that integrates dynamic mobility and human-centered spaces. It is an expression of Kia’s commitment to continually bring technologically advanced mobility and experiences that engage, stimulate, and inspire.”

What are the key features of the Kia Vision Meta Turismo concept car?

The Vision Meta Turismo is a modern reinterpretation of three core experiences:

• Performance driving
• Immersive driving experience through digital interaction
• Spaciousness of the lounge space

Its exterior reflects the Kia design philosophy 'Opposites United', featuring a futuristic silhouette that blends soft surfaces with geometric elements. Inside, the design enhances human-mobility interaction through digital technology and creates a highly immersive experience for both drivers and passengers, with unique design elements and a spacious layout.

A highlight is the Vision Meta Turismo’s steering wheel, which reimagines the next-generation intuitive driving interface. It offers a more immersive driving experience with three digital modes – Speedster, Dreamer, and Gamer – utilizing AR Head-Up Display (HUD) technology to deliver tailored user experiences for different driving environments. The AR HUD integrates smart glass into the vehicle, enabling drivers to view virtual graphics as if they are floating above the road in three dimensions.

Kia will unveil full information on the concept in the near future.

View full article

Used this site to have it generate me an exterior and interior version of a KIA EV9 with Genesis look.

Deep Image https://deepimg.ai/ai-image-generator/

Have to say I really like this look!

@Drew Dowdell I could so enjoy this SUV.

Am excited for the GV90 to come out next year if we still get it here in the U.S.

3 minutes ago, Drew Dowdell said:

Exterior was Gemini Nano Banana 2, but then it hallucinated on the third picture and used up my free tokens. ChatGPT did the interior.

Should post them in our AI auto thread.

18 minutes ago, Drew Dowdell said:

I think that interior is a little too close to the original HI6, but it's a step in the right direction

Which AI Engine did you use to generate the images?

Best Rebadge of a Tesla Ever!

23 minutes ago, Drew Dowdell said:

I really like this!  It would be on my shopping list if it was out now. 

My daughter likes it too and is hoping it is an option in 1 1/2 years when her current Lease is up to replace the Subaru Solterra that she likes but is not willing to hold onto after the lease is up.

24 minutes ago, A Horse With No Name said:

 

This actually does not bother me as I no longer like working on auto's, would rather just have a repair place take care of it or best, hold the dealership accountable.

Not good for the world economy as China has grown without importing.

China’s growth is coming at the rest of the world’s expense

Interesting read

The bright spot for EVs nobody is talking about

What is the Kia EV5 WKNDR?

• A concept that offers modern explorers freedom to transition seamlessly from city to nature
• It has increased ground clearance, extended wheel arches, protective body cladding and all-terrain tires signal off-road intent
• An interior that serves as flexible basecamp, bridging gap between urban convenience and outdoor exploration

This was a challenge to the Kia Design China team to take the EV5 that has just been released and come up with a trim / option package that would give the customers something they currently do not have. A catalyst for adventure from the design team is what created this working concept, taking ease of city use, but then transforming into an off-road weekend adventure mobile.

This stays true to the Kia design language of "Opposites United" in offering a robust but elegant, EV experience that takes one from urban sophistication to rugged adventure, from structured life to ultimate freedom. This is what the EV5 WKNDR delivers in spades. Kia wanted to deliver on some key questions in explaining this possible trim level for the EV5.

What are the concept’s key exterior features?

The exterior of the EV5 WKNDR projects a confident stance, built for adventure. Designed to communicate capability and readiness from every angle, it balances a sense of power with visual lightness.

• Increased ground clearance, extended wheel arches, protective body cladding and all-terrain tires signal its off-road intent.
• Front and rear retractable tow hooks aid in recovery on rough terrain. A panoramic roof rack accommodates traction boards and camping gear, while a side-window pegboard allows for easy tool attachment.
• A model-specific dashing light signature defines the front end alongside a reinterpreted Tiger Nose framed by a functional hood board featuring a built-in action camera to capture adventures from the driver’s perspective. The rear echoes the front, featuring a geometric bumper and gunmetal trim for a robust, capable stance.

What are the concept’s key interior features?

The interior of the EV5 WKNDR acts as a flexible, multi-scenario basecamp thanks to thoughtfully crafted space that bridges the gap between urban convenience and outdoor exploration.

• A slidable display with a modern, flat-art HMI creates a clean, intuitive digital interface.
• The center console is a hub of creativity and practicality, featuring a rotatable armrest with a built-in walkie-talkie cradle for off-grid communication and an anti-insect camping lamp that provides light, scent and sound.
• The modular seats are ventilated, rotatable, and foldable, transforming into footrests or creating extended storage. A detachable jump seat can be taken outside to serve as instant, portable camping seating.
• A rail system in the trunk allows for flexible storage, and the trunk cover itself doubles as a portable table.

What role does CMF play in the Kia EV5 WKNDR?

The EV5 WKNDR’s CMF strategy draws direct inspiration from the outdoors, using sustainable materials designed for durability.

• The exterior color ‘Birch’ mimics the grey-white tones of birch tree bark, adept at concealing off-road marks. The interior ‘Spruce Blue’ evokes the serenity of a dawn forest, accented by ‘Citrus Green’ from outdoor safety gear for visual vitality.
• The cabin uses bio-based PU material derived from corn, offering Nappa leather-like tactility with reduced emissions. 3D knit fabric provides lightweight, breathable and elastic surfaces, combining ruggedness with sustainable functionality.

What are the digital features of the Kia EV5 WKNDR?

The digital interface of the EV5 WKNDR serves as a reliable co-pilot, designed to be helpful, not distracting, while making adventure planning simple and social.

• Key data like battery level, range, and next-turn navigation are presented in a clear, glanceable format.
• The system facilitates group travel, shared routes and camping checklist management, turning a solo trip into a shared social memory.

What is the functionality of the EV5 WKNDR’s trailer?

The concept of spontaneous escape expands exponentially with a detachable trailer system.

• The trailer acts as a customizable mobile basecamp, enabling scenarios like a drone-assisted climbing expedition, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen for sunset gatherings, or a cozy stargazing retreat under the open sky.

How does the EV5 WKNDR reflect Kia’s brand values?

The EV5 WKNDR represents a new chapter for Kia, showcasing an ability to create vehicles that are deeply relevant locally while possessing a spirit with worldwide appeal. The concept enables users to live their lives to the fullest, pursuing the desire for spontaneous freedom and reconnection with nature, which resonates on a global scale.  

View full article

@oldshurst442 I agree with the points you make on engine oil. The story is an interesting one as it also does hit on side notes of the shift to smaller engines. I would agree that the better the oil one uses, the longer the engine will last.

Both my past SS and current Escalade, from the first oil change I have always used Mobil 1 synthetic and never had a problem or the Tick Tick Tick noise that is very common in my generation of Escalades, but that Tick goes away and is never heard when you use Mobile 1, but comes back right away with regular oil.

I grew up in a household where maintenance was impressed on me from my dad and the importance of using quality parts even if they are not OEM. This has always allowed me to have auto's that easily outlast my time with them, 10 to 20 years for me.

R.I.P. I really liked this actor and especially in the Mortal Kombat series of Movies.

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, actor in ‘Mortal Kombat’ and ‘The Man in the High Castle,’ dies at 75

With all the chat here on this socalled good looking guy, I decided to look it up, I barely remember this as it was in and out of the news.

Luigi Mangione is the individual accused of shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on December 4, 2024. Thompson was shot from behind as he was leaving an investor conference in Manhattan. Mangione faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder in state court and federal murder charges, which could potentially lead to the death penalty if convicted.

Live updates: Luigi Mangione faces court year after CEO killing – NBC New York

Seems the meeting was canceled about 45 minutes after the folks inside learned that the CEO was murdered.

FACT CHECK: Did UnitedHealthcare Continue It’s Meeting After Learning Their CEO Was Killed?

UnitedHealth Cancels Investor Day After CEO Is Fatally Shot | Kiplinger

While there are many stories about the CEO being a good guy like this:
UnitedHealthcare CEO killing: Investor day attendees shocked after Brian Thompson death | Fortune

While in the same neighborhood, the wife and son lived separate from the Husband and father and there does seem to be questionable things about the CEO life.

UnitedHealthcare CEO Was Separated from Wife at Time of Killing: Report

Interesting read on this murderer.

The Decline, Fall, and Unexpected Veneration of Luigi Mangione

Interesting observation is that this seems to be a partial matte paint job and I have plenty of coworkers who thought the matte paint jobs were cool and only after they bought the auto and read on it, discovered that you cannot run a matte paint job through a touch or touchless auto wash. They have to be hand washed. Paint jobs are terrible when you do not like to do things like hand wash your auto and cannot just run it through a auto wash. One coworker found a place that does hand wash detail jobs for matte paint and so he has resolved himself to pay $200 a month to have his matte painted auto washed and vacuumed. Crazy.

13 minutes ago, oldshurst442 said:

18 minutes to 80% is pretty good.  That would be what(?) 280 miles?  That would be sufficient to go back home wherever home would be anywhere in the continental united states OF America, ummm...almost.   obviously I'm being sarcastic about the going home anywhere in the us with a gasoline tank of 280 miles.  But I AM being serious in saying that 18 minutes for 280 miles is not detrimental for anybody wanting to buy an EV and using said EV for road trips.  Even if that means traveling from the mid-west to Death Valley...  I'm sure right now in trump's/maga's vision of utopia where charging stations for EVs are wanting to be limited and existing charging stations to be exterminated.  (dramatic statements all around for sure...but just doing it to prove a point that range anxiety was a hoax as far back as even 6 years ago...) 

Agree, as I posted in the Random about the new Rivian Fast Charging station, range concerns are overblown imho. Most times when my wife drives down south or up north to deal with Family, if she forgets to charge at home, she will just do 80% as it is more than enough to get back home. She did one time just a charge to 50%, 9 min and then came home.

The wife has gone from worrying about range anxiety to it is not an issue for her anymore.

She drove the Escalade for the first time in a little over a year and found it so noisy and weird that it just did not move like her EV. Clearly will be an EV driver only.

7 minutes ago, oldshurst442 said:

 10%-100% giving you almost 320 miles and out of curiosity, how long did it take to charge up? 

 

18 minutes to 80% and 35 total minutes to get the 100%, we were in a Walmart doing shopping, so the extra time did not bother us, that last 20% is the longest time to get charged.

Very cool, January 9th 2026 the reveal will take place in Europe for Kia EV2
|Kia EV2 Teased, to Debut at Brussels Motor Show 2026 - Korean Car Blog

Road trip over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, had to do a single charge up at a ChargePoint station, went from 10% to 100% battery charge for $29.02 giving me a range of almost 320 miles. Overall was pretty cheap I felt for fueling.

Self-driving continues to impress me, with the smart driving assist, it was pretty cool to just tap the turn signal, and the car does the rest for changing lanes. Continue to be impressed with Kia Software.

Currently at 28,081 miles for 5 months shy of 2 years ownership.