Cars

2025 Hyundai Kona Electric Lease Deals Not a February Bargain

Hyundai's crossover lineup is extensive, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious choices. Positioned between the Venue and Tucson, the Hyundai Kona made its debut in 2017 for the 2018 model year, with its second generation arriving in the US in 2023 for the 2024 model year, offering both gasoline and electric powertrains. The 2025 Kona Electric comes in four trim levels, all equipped with modern features such as advanced driver assistance systems, dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluelink+ connected services, heated exterior mirrors, and active grille shutters.

Despite its feature-rich offerings, the lease deals for the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric in February are quite high, with monthly payments starting at $770 for the SEL trim and going up to $822 for the Limited trim, all with a 24-month term and a significant amount due at signing. These figures make the Kona EV's lease rates comparable to or even higher than some luxury models, which is an unusual market position for a subcompact crossover. Hyundai USA's decision to skip the 2026 model year for the Kona Electric suggests a strategy to clear existing inventory.

Regardless of the current lease prices, the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric remains a compelling option for those venturing into the electric vehicle market, offering competitive value given its comprehensive features and pleasant driving experience. The entry-level SE model is powered by a 48.6 kWh battery, delivering 133 hp, while the higher trims feature a larger 64.8 kWh battery and 201 hp, ensuring a robust performance. The N-Line further enhances the appeal with a sportier design and premium interior touches, while the Limited trim focuses on increased convenience and safety features.

The Hyundai Kona Electric, despite its current elevated lease costs, represents an excellent entry point into electric vehicle ownership due to its extensive features and well-rounded performance. This forward-thinking vehicle is a testament to the ongoing innovation in the automotive industry, providing a blend of practicality and advanced technology that caters to a modern, environmentally conscious driver. Embracing such innovations propels us towards a more sustainable and efficient future.

Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo Evo2 Dominates Lightning Lap 2026

The Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo Evo2, a formidable racing machine, delivered an outstanding performance at the recent Lightning Lap event, recording a lap time of 2:30.6. This specialized race car, distinct from its road-legal counterparts, is engineered for competitive racing, as evidenced by its robust 612 horsepower V-10 engine and a lightweight design estimated at 2950 pounds. Optimized for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, it generates approximately 1500 pounds of downforce at high speeds, critical for maintaining grip and stability on the track, especially through challenging turns like the Climbing Esses. Its advanced Hankook Ventus slick tires, though designed for endurance, contribute to its impressive track capabilities, showcasing the meticulous design and development that go into creating a top-tier racing vehicle.

Driving this high-performance vehicle requires immense skill and physical exertion, as observed by testers who noted the significant effort needed for braking and the immediate responsiveness of the car to driver inputs. Despite its race-tuned characteristics, such as a stiff suspension that demands precise handling and a tight cockpit fit for taller individuals, the Huracán Super Trofeo Evo2 offers an exhilarating and uniquely engaging driving experience. Its performance at the Lightning Lap event, managed by Kaizen Autosport, underscores the vehicle's superior track dynamics, outperforming even the fastest street cars in certain sectors and establishing a new benchmark for racing prowess.

With a lap time that surpasses the quickest street Huracán by a significant margin of 13.3 seconds and the new Temerario by 11.1 seconds, the Huracán Super Trofeo Evo2 demonstrates the profound impact of dedicated race engineering. Its relative affordability at $360,000, compared to Lamborghini's street models, further highlights its value as a purebred racing machine. The potential for future iterations, particularly with the introduction of a twin-turbocharged V-8 engine in models like the Temerario Super Trofeo, promises even more thrilling performances and technological advancements in the world of high-performance racing.

This triumph exemplifies human ingenuity and dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. It's a testament to the idea that with relentless innovation and a clear vision, extraordinary achievements are always within reach. The pursuit of speed and precision on the track reflects a broader human desire for excellence and the constant quest to refine and perfect our creations.

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2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 Pro: Track Performance Review

The 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 Pro showcases remarkable advancements in track performance, achieving a lap time of 2 minutes and 46.9 seconds. This impressive feat is largely attributed to its meticulously engineered features, including updated carbon-ceramic rotors and active anti-roll control, ensuring both speed and driver comfort. Despite its substantial weight of 4268 pounds, the vehicle's enhanced grip and powerful engine make it a formidable presence on the circuit.

Car and Driver's March/April 2026 issue features an in-depth analysis of the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 Pro, detailing its evolution from previous models. A significant improvement over its predecessor, this iteration benefits from Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires, which facilitate easier exploitation of the car's higher limits. The Pro's ability to maintain high speeds through challenging sections, such as the NASCAR Bend and Climbing Esses, underscores its superior handling and aerodynamic design. Its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine, delivering 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, provides a notable boost in performance, making it quicker and more responsive.

The comfort a driver experiences on the track is not merely about luxurious seating, but about the car's dynamic capabilities. The GT63 Pro excels in this regard, with robust braking and predictable handling contributing to a sense of security and control. The refined brake pedal feel, a direct result of new pads and titanium backing plates, resolves the inconsistencies noted in last year's model. This allows drivers to push the vehicle harder and maintain optimal performance throughout extended track sessions.

While the Pro version adds 33 pounds due to liquid-cooled differentials and a transfer case designed for prolonged track use, this added mass does not detract from its agility or driver confidence. The precise steering and active anti-roll system work in harmony to minimize body movement, ensuring a stable and engaging driving experience. These elements collectively contribute to the car's overall balance and responsiveness, making it a joy to command on the circuit.

Achieving a lap time that is 3.4 seconds faster than the standard GT63, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 Pro demonstrates a significant leap forward in automotive engineering. Its consistent performance, capable of sustained sub-2:50 lap times, establishes it as a top contender in its class. This vehicle seamlessly blends high-performance capabilities with refined engineering, offering an unparalleled driving experience for enthusiasts seeking both speed and precision on the track.

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