In a significant development for electric vehicle owners, premium German automakers Porsche and Audi are set to integrate their EV models with Tesla's extensive Supercharger network. This strategic collaboration will dramatically enhance the charging infrastructure available to owners of Porsche Taycan, the new Macan Electric, and various Audi e-tron models. By providing access to more than 23,500 Tesla Superchargers across North America, this initiative addresses one of the primary concerns for EV adoption: charging accessibility. Both brands are committed to ensuring a smooth transition, offering necessary adapters and integrating Supercharger locations into their vehicle navigation systems and mobile applications. This move underscores a broader industry trend towards interoperability and a more comprehensive charging ecosystem for electric vehicles.
The expansion of charging options stems from a long-standing vision expressed by Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, back in 2013, to open up the Supercharging network to other automotive brands. This philosophy aimed at preventing a 'walled garden' approach to EV technology. Over the years, numerous major automakers, including Ford, Rivian, General Motors, Lucid, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Genesis, and Kia, have aligned their electric vehicles to be compatible with Tesla's network. The addition of Porsche and Audi, renowned for their performance and luxury vehicles, marks a substantial milestone in this ongoing effort to unify charging standards and enhance the convenience for EV drivers across the continent.
For Porsche owners, the integration is slated to begin as early as September 9, allowing Taycan and the upcoming Macan Electric models immediate access to the Supercharger network. Initially, charging sessions will be managed via the Tesla app, with plans to introduce full plug-and-charge functionality and integration with the My Porsche app later in the year. New 2026 Taycan and Macan Electric vehicles will come equipped with a Porsche-branded NACS DC adapter at no additional cost. Owners of 2025 models are also eligible for a complimentary adapter, while those with older 2024 model year Taycans can purchase one for $185 from Porsche outlets. Furthermore, Porsche is rolling out a software update that will include Supercharger locations in the vehicle's navigation system, making route planning significantly more efficient for drivers.
Audi is following a similar path, with its electric e-tron range gaining Supercharger access starting September 2025. This will be facilitated through a manufacturer-approved NACS-to-CCS adapter. This adapter will be a port-installed accessory for most 2025 e-tron models, including the Q6 e-tron SUV, A6 Sportback e-tron, and the e-tron GT. While details for existing e-tron owners are forthcoming, this partnership significantly bolsters Audi's charging infrastructure. Previously reliant on Electrify America's network of approximately 5,000 DC fast-charging stations, Audi drivers will now have access to over 28,000 charging points across North America. Similar to Porsche, Audi drivers will initially use the Tesla app for charging, with eventual integration into the myAudi app and the car's MMI navigation system.
This growing trend of cross-brand charging compatibility signals a crucial shift in the electric vehicle landscape. For many years, Tesla's Supercharger network stood out for its reliability, speed, and strategic placement, contributing to a perception of exclusivity that appealed to its customer base. However, the gradual opening of this network is paving the way for a truly shared and robust charging infrastructure. This collaborative approach promises to make electric vehicle ownership more practical and appealing for a broader audience, transcending brand loyalties and fostering greater adoption of sustainable transportation solutions.
The original Kona captured our admiration, and its successor, the completely reimagined second-generation Kona, surpasses expectations with a multitude of improvements extending beyond mere aesthetics. This model integrates sophisticated technology, a completely redesigned cabin, and dynamic exterior contours, positioning it as a refreshing presence in a category often characterized by uniformity. While competing with vehicles such as the Honda HR-V, Chevrolet Trailblazer, and Subaru Crosstrek, the Kona distinguishes itself in numerous aspects.
The 2025 Hyundai Kona offers a selection of six distinct trim levels, beginning with the base SE model priced at $24,550 and culminating with the premium Limited trim at $32,100. The updated Kona showcases a sleek front facade complemented by slender LED lighting, robust fender flares, and sharply defined body lines. Inside, the capacious cabin provides excellent technological integration and intuitive physical controls. Entry-level Kona variants are powered by a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission. The Kona SE achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 29 MPG in the city, 34 MPG on the highway, and 31 MPG combined. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available across all trim levels. Hyundai has introduced an attractive lease incentive for the Kona SE this September.
Hyundai's September lease program for the 2025 Kona SE FWD is set at $249 per month for a 36-month duration, requiring an initial payment of $3,999 at the time of lease signing. This upfront cost covers the first month's payment of $229 and a capitalized cost reduction of $3,770, excluding various official fees such as registration, taxes, title, licensing, processing, documentation fees, insurance, and any emission charges. A security deposit is not mandated. The lessee bears responsibility for insurance, maintenance, and any necessary repairs. A disposition fee of $400 is applicable at the lease's conclusion, with exceptions in certain states where state laws limit such fees. The annual mileage allowance is 10,000 miles, totaling 30,000 miles over the lease term. This special lease offer is valid until September 30, 2025.
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE comes equipped with a host of standard features, including 17-inch alloy wheels, 215/60 R17 all-season tires, LED projector combination headlights, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRLs), LED combination taillights, and high beam assist. Convenience is enhanced with proximity key entry and pushbutton start, ample seating for five occupants, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 4.2-inch gauge cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, Bluelink connected services, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
The Kona prioritizes safety with an array of advanced standard features, such as blind spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic avoidance assist, front and rear parking distance warnings, forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian/cyclist detection, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, driver attention warning, rear occupant alert, and safe exit warning. Furthermore, the 2025 Kona achieved the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) highest accolade, the Top Safety Pick+ award. Despite its compact exterior, the Kona offers a surprisingly roomy interior, with a total passenger volume of 101.2 cubic feet. Front-row occupants benefit from 41.7 inches of legroom, while the second row provides 38.3 inches of legroom, surpassing that of the Honda HR-V. The cargo area boasts 25.5 cubic feet of space with the rear seats upright, expanding to an impressive 63.7 cubic feet when the second-row seats are folded flat, exceeding the Subaru Crosstrek's capacity.
The 2025 Hyundai Kona stands as a leading subcompact crossover, lauded for its innovative design, generous cabin space, passenger comfort, and integrated in-car technology. Its industry-best safety ratings further solidify its appeal. The attractive September lease offer, with its competitive monthly payment, significantly enhances the Kona's accessibility. Prior to finalizing any lease agreement, it is crucial to meticulously review all associated costs at signing, including taxes, registration fees, and any potential dealer-specific charges. This article is intended solely for informational purposes. The lease offer details provided are based on manufacturer information, which is subject to change and may vary based on location, credit eligibility, and other factors. We are not involved in lease agreements and assume no responsibility for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any mentioned lease offers. All terms, including pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, must be directly confirmed with an authorized local OEM dealership. This content does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any specific lease or vehicle.
The automotive world is abuzz with the return of an icon, and the aftermarket sector is already responding with fervor. The esteemed Japanese tuning house, Mugen, has wasted no time in presenting a bespoke enhancement package for the newly resurrected Honda Prelude. This swift action underscores the immense anticipation surrounding Honda's latest coupe and signals a clear path for enthusiasts to infuse their personal flair into this modern classic. The kit, arriving even before the Prelude graces dealership floors, demonstrates Mugen's deep understanding of the fervent desire among fans for both aesthetic distinction and enhanced driving dynamics.
On a crisp autumn day, September 5, 2025, Mugen, a name synonymous with Honda's performance heritage, proudly unveiled its complete upgrade catalog for the reborn Honda Prelude. This highly anticipated coupe, recently confirmed to boast a 200-horsepower hybrid powertrain, is set to offer a harmonious blend of energetic performance and efficient motoring. Mugen’s meticulously crafted offerings underscore its belief in the Prelude's inherent potential for customization and performance augmentation. The comprehensive package includes an array of exterior enhancements such as sleek carbon fiber lips, aggressive side skirts, sophisticated rear diffusers, and aerodynamic spoilers, all complemented by striking forged wheels. Beyond aesthetics, the kit features Yamaha-developed dampers for superior handling and a performance-oriented exhaust system designed to unleash a more exhilarating auditory experience. Furthermore, a suite of subtle interior accessories, including bespoke badges, elegant sill plates, and custom floor mats, collectively elevate the vehicle's cabin ambiance. These thoughtful additions exemplify Mugen’s hallmark approach: delivering performance-driven modifications that integrate flawlessly with the original factory design, a testament to their deep-rooted connection with the Honda brand. This strategic launch is perfectly timed, capitalizing on the feverish excitement that has enveloped the Prelude since its initial Japanese teaser. With rumors swirling about potential companion coupes at upcoming auto shows and speculation of more potent variants, including a 'Type R' iteration, the market is ripe for such bespoke offerings.
The rapid introduction of Mugen's custom enhancements for the Honda Prelude represents more than just a new product line; it symbolizes a renewed commitment to the essence of performance and personalization that has long defined the Honda brand. In an era increasingly dominated by crossover vehicles, Honda's decision to bring back a performance-oriented coupe is a bold statement—a declaration that driving passion and engaging automotive experiences remain paramount. Mugen's immediate embrace of the new Prelude, offering a curated suite of modifications, reinforces this message, inviting owners to actively participate in the evolution of their vehicles. It reminds us that cars are not merely tools for transportation, but canvases for expression and platforms for exhilaration. For the dedicated enthusiasts and fortunate buyers who secure a spot for the new Prelude, Mugen's kit provides an unparalleled opportunity to transform an already exciting return into a truly unique and personalized automotive masterpiece, heralding a vibrant new chapter for one of Honda's most cherished nameplates.