15 Oct
Blog

Lenovo Smart Clock Essential Review: Tech meets nostalgia

Lenovo Smart Clock Essential Rating 2 out of 9

Lenovo Smart Clock Essential

"The Lenovo Smart Clock Essential will wake you up, but it's a snoozer that knows what else is out there."

  • Compact design

  • Shows the time clearly

  • Affordable price

  • USB port for charging devices

  • No way to set an alarm through the Google Home app

  • A firm tip is required to snooze

  • Not good for music playback

More than any other company besides Google itself, Lenovo has designed Smart Assistant devices with the Google Assistant. From smart displays to hybrid tablets, Lenovo has one of the more robust portfolios. While this isn't the first time the company has delved into the world of alarm clocks, the latest addition is the Lenovo Smart Clock Essential, giving consumers even more choices about what to impress these prime properties about their beds. The sticker price of $ 50 seems like a home run, but it needs to stand out from others to make a better buy than the competition.

Bring back alarm clock

Today's smart home devices can be overwhelming at times, especially as Google's smart home ecosystem continues to evolve. What is evident here is Lenovo's intention to simplify the design of its smart alarm clock. Unlike its earlier efforts, this one doesn't have a touchscreen, but rather the LED design of traditional alarm clocks. With that in mind, the Smart Clock Essential has a bit of nostalgia.

The Lenovo Smart Clock Essential takes up roughly the same space as the Google Nest Mini and is a suitable addition to any bedside table. Thanks to the large LEDs on the front, I can quickly see the time – and without straining my eyes if I suddenly wake up in the middle of the night. It's also great that the temperature and weather conditions are shown through icons. Around the top lip of the device are physical controls for volume and pause / play, as well as a button for manually setting alarms. If you're like me and have a charger nearby for your smartphone, you'll appreciate the fact that there is a full-size USB stick just for that purpose.

One could argue that its design is nothing more than a shrunken version of its sibling, the Smart Alarm Clock, but the Essential's use of LEDs instead of a touchscreen display makes it less distracting. It's simple, looks clean, and saves space.

All Google Assistant smarts

Interaction with Lenovo Smart Clock Essential is done through voice actions and commands through the Google Assistant. In this regard, it works like any other smart speaker or display. Compared to the Google Nest Mini, the Essential is definitely a better option when you consider the visual element it provides for showing the time, day of the week, temperature, and weather conditions. It's just more convenient than asking the Google Assistant for all of these details, for example.

The Lenovo Smart Clock Essential is a suitable addition to any bedside table.

There are two ways to set an alarm: you can tell the Google Assistant to set an alarm, or you can set an alarm manually in Essential. At a time when voice actions are faster, this method may seem archaic, but those who grew up with a real alarm clock will appreciate that bit of nostalgia. On a more modern note, I find it convenient that I can just respond with "stop" to turn off the alarm when it goes off.

But what if you need a little extra time to wake up? Then you can just say, "Hey Google, sleep for six minutes." You can also turn off an alarm by pressing any of the physical buttons other than the alarm button. You can also tap the top of the Essential to turn it off.

I really would have liked more controls in the Google Home app, such as the ability to set alarms. On the one hand, I understand that voice commands have become the preferred method for setting alarms, but it wouldn't hurt to give users the option to set one through the Google Home app.

Some minor quirks

Don't expect the sound quality to blow your mind, which is to be expected given the size. It is what you hear about the Google Nest Mini. For responses from the Google Assistant, the 3-watt speaker is enough to recognize it, but it lacks the robust tones and punch of other audio-centric smart speakers – like Google Nest Audio or Google Home.

I found some minor quirks with the Lenovo Smart Clock Essential that hopefully will be fixed with future software updates. For some reason, it can't compete with other Google Assistant speakers or displays in the same room. Whenever I ask him to turn the night light on or off, my Google Nest Hub responds with an error. However, if I mute the Nest Hub and say the command again, it works like a charm. Also, the snooze function doesn't work when I tap the top of the device.

Our opinion

The Lenovo Smart Clock Essential is a tough call. It's a touch of nostalgia, but it doesn't bring anything new to the (night) table.

How long it will take?

Since it will remain stationary, it is unlikely to break. It's sturdy and well built so I'm confident it will withstand a fall. There is a 1 year limited warranty that covers defects.

Is there a better alternative?

There are some products in Lenovo's own portfolio that are better alternatives. The logical suggestion is the $ 80 Lenovo Smart Alarm Clock, which has a touchscreen display that offers some “light” smart display features, such as: E.g. access to smart home controls (e.g. turning on lights) and live feeds from surveillance cameras. The Lenovo Smart Display 7 offers the best solution as it is a full featured smart display with a camera that costs $ 100.

Should you buy it?

Yes, mainly for cost reasons, when you don't need the added functionality of the other alternatives above.

Editor's recommendations




01 Oct
Blog

How Wearable Tech Can Improve Your Life

Our entry into the digital age means that today we have access to all kinds of technology. In fact, many of us rely on technology on a daily basis in both work and personal life. From running smartphones with us everywhere, to using our laptops and the superfast broadband network to get online, we use technology for all kinds of purposes and on a regular basis.

Another type of technology that has gained popularity in recent years is wearable technology and there are all kinds of wearable tech products out there these days. From smartwatches and fitness trackers to head-mounted displays (HMDs) and smart clothing, you can find an incredible array of great wearable technology these days. You can also get great deals by using promotions like B&H Photo Video online codes to help cut the cost of certain wearable tech purchases.

In this article, we're going to look at some of the options and how they can benefit you.

What are the advantages?

No matter what type of smart wearable device you use these days, you can look forward to a multitude of benefits. The most widely used wearable devices include smartwatches, which, when connected to your smartphone, offer you absolute ease and convenience. You can then do all sorts of things just by using your watch, such as: B. Receive and send messages, access notifications, track fitness, and more. You can get these watches at reasonable prices nowadays too, making them perfect for those looking to add extra comfort.

Another very popular wearable is the fitness tracker, which is perfect for those who want to improve their fitness and track their progress. These trackers can monitor all sorts of aspects related to fitness, such as: These include the number of steps you take, calories burned, your heart rate, and various other fitness-related metrics. These are great little devices that are easy to carry, offer the ultimate in comfort, and can really help you get in shape and improve your health.

For those who are really interested in wearables, head-mounted displays or HMDs are a great idea and offer the ultimate in futuristic convenience. As the name suggests, they are worn on the head and can bring the display of your device into your field of view without looking down at your device. These HMDs can be used as monitors, provide augmented reality displays or even immerse you in a whole new world with virtual reality.

Great as a gift for loved ones

These are just some of the wearables you can get these days to make your life better and bring you comfort and ease. These are also items that make great gifts. So, you can help improve the lives of your loved ones by purchasing items like these as gifts for special occasions.

01 Oct
Blog

How Wearable Tech Can Improve Your Life

Our entry into the digital age means that today we have access to all kinds of technology. In fact, many of us rely on technology on a daily basis in both work and personal life. From running smartphones with us everywhere, to using our laptops and the superfast broadband network to get online, we use technology for all kinds of purposes and on a regular basis.

Another type of technology that has gained popularity in recent years is wearable technology and there are all kinds of wearable tech products out there these days. From smartwatches and fitness trackers to head-mounted displays (HMDs) and smart clothing, you can find an incredible array of great wearable technology these days. You can also get great deals by using promotions like B&H Photo Video online codes to help cut the cost of certain wearable tech purchases.

In this article, we're going to look at some of the options and how they can benefit you.

What are the advantages?

No matter what type of smart wearable device you use these days, you can look forward to a multitude of benefits. The most widely used wearable devices include smartwatches, which, when connected to your smartphone, offer you absolute ease and convenience. You can then do all sorts of things just by using your watch, such as: B. Receive and send messages, access notifications, track fitness, and more. You can get these watches at reasonable prices nowadays too, making them perfect for those looking to add extra comfort.

Another very popular wearable is the fitness tracker, which is perfect for those who want to improve their fitness and track their progress. These trackers can monitor all sorts of aspects related to fitness, such as: These include the number of steps you take, calories burned, your heart rate, and various other fitness-related metrics. These are great little devices that are easy to carry, offer the ultimate in comfort, and can really help you get in shape and improve your health.

For those who are really interested in wearables, head-mounted displays or HMDs are a great idea and offer the ultimate in futuristic convenience. As the name suggests, they are worn on the head and can bring the display of your device into your field of view without looking down at your device. These HMDs can be used as monitors, provide augmented reality displays or even immerse you in a whole new world with virtual reality.

Great as a gift for loved ones

These are just some of the wearables you can get these days to make your life better and bring you comfort and ease. These are also items that make great gifts. So, you can help improve the lives of your loved ones by purchasing items like these as gifts for special occasions.

14 Aug
Blog

2020 Subaru Legacy Limited XT Review: AWD, Turbo, And Tech

2020 Subaru Legacy

2020 Subaru Legacy Limited XT Review: Not Just Another Sedan

"The 2020 Subaru Legacy combines electronic brains with mechanical power."

  • Powerful engine

  • Well integrated touch screen

  • Technology that combats distraction

  • Comfortable ride

  • Badly tuned transmission

The Subaru Legacy has always behaved differently than other midsize sedans, offering all-wheel drive and unorthodox boxer engines to stand out from the competition in cookie cutters. While the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry have dominated the market for decades, the Legacy has built a small but loyal following, mostly in the Subaru strongholds of the northeast and northwest.

With the revised Legacy 2020, however, Subaru wants to break out of its niche and directly challenge other midsize sedans.

As with its Outback sibling, the standout new features of the 2020 Subaru Legacy are an available 11.6-inch touchscreen and turbocharged four-cylinder engine, reminiscent of sporty turbo legacy models of the 2000s and 2010s. Our Legacy Limited XT test car had both items plus a sticker price of $ 35,095, compared to $ 23,645 for a base Legacy.

2020 Subaru Legacy

Design and interior

The style is subjective, but if you look at the exterior of the 2020 Legacy, it's clear that Subaru had different priorities. Nothing about the design is different or groundbreaking, and while it is a new generation of Legacy, the 2020 model is similar to its predecessor. The 2020 Legacy is slightly longer, taller and wider than the 2019 model, but has an identical wheelbase.

Under the skin, the Legacy rides on the same Subaru Global Platform as the automaker's other current models such as the Crosstrek and Ascent. Subaru claims that the 2020 Legacy has 70% stiffer torsional stiffness than its predecessor, which helps improve driveability and gives the car a more solid feel. Subaru also claims that the 2020 Legacy can absorb more than 40% more energy in front and side impacts.

Lots of screens seem like a waste of space, but Subaru got it right.

Typically Subaru, the interior is simple but well laid out. Our Limited test car (a step down from Touring's top trim level) had leather seats that were reasonably comfortable but could have used firmer cushioning. Subaru also threw in lots of shiny black plastic and fake chrome trim that caused significant glare in direct sunlight and looked like it was easily scratched.

The Legacy has an Environmental Protection Agency-rated passenger volume as top competitors like the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Passat. However, the headroom and legroom in both rows are only average. At 15.1 cubic feet, the trunk is a little below average.

2020 Subaru Legacy

Technology, infotainment and driver assistance

The 2020 Legacy gets the same 11.6-inch portrait touchscreen as the Outback. The screen is standard on all Legacy trim levels except for the base model (which has a 7.0-inch touchscreen), while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board. For the first time, the Legacy will also have an integrated WiFi hotspot.

Big screens are all the rage these days, but most automakers seem to prioritize form over function. While a lot of these screens seem like a waste of space, Subaru got things right. As in the outback, the symbols are large and easier to read while driving. Climate control icons are also at the bottom of the screen – where analog controls and buttons are usually located – and Subaru included an important volume control. At some point, however, the audio system stopped working, a problem we didn't have with an Outback with the same head unit. It was fixed by restarting the car.

The 2020 Legacy also receives Subaru's EyeSight driver assistance suite, which uses front-facing cameras near the rearview mirror instead of the radars used by most other automakers. The adaptive cruise control with lane centering is standard, while the blind spot monitoring, the lane change assistant and the rear cross traffic alarm are optional extras. This is similar to the standard driver aid package for the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and Toyota Camry.

EyeSight has one advantage over competing systems: technology that ensures it is not used irresponsibly.

As with the Outback, EyeSight's adaptive cruise control easily maintained a steady pace, but was slow to respond when cars pulled in abruptly. However, the lane-centering function performance was poorer and showed a tendency to pull aside as if the car needed a wheel alignment. It also made the car drift out of its lane a couple of times. An outback test car didn't have these problems on the same track. Given the similarity between the two models (the Outback is essentially a legacy station wagon), the lack of consistency was worrying.

Even so, EyeSight still has one advantage over competing systems: technology that ensures it is not used irresponsibly. Subaru is one of the few automakers (along with BMW and Cadillac) to use a camera facing the driver to monitor the distraction. The DriverFocus system, which was introduced in the Forester, sends audible and visual warnings when the driver takes their eyes off the road. As in other Subarus, DriverFocus did its work in the Legacy unobtrusively and without false positives.

2020 Subaru Legacy

Experience at the wheel

The 2020 Legacy continues Subaru's use of its trademark boxer engines, which sit deeper in the chassis than other engine configurations, helping to lower the car's center of gravity. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine was carried over from the 2019 model year, but it now produces 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, up from 175 horsepower and 174 pound-feet previously. All Legacy models have standard all-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

XT models get a more powerful 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a turbocharger. Together with the Outback and Ascent, it makes 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. That's more than the 3.6-liter boxer-six this engine replaces, as well as the optional turbo engines on the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. The Toyota Camry's 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 has more power (301 hp) but less torque (267 lb-ft).

The Legacy also beats the Hyundai Sonata in performance, though Hyundai is preparing a sporty N-Line model with a 2.5-liter turbo four that makes 290 hp and 310 lb-ft. This engine is already available in the 2021 Kia K5 GT.

The turbo engine offers a lot of power for an ordinary family sedan.

Regardless of the competition, the turbo engine offers a lot of power for an ordinary family sedan. Hence, the Legacy XT can easily be thought of as a bigger sibling of the Subaru WRX. However, this is not the case. That Legacy is decently quick (zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, according to Subaru), but nothing else is sporty. The chassis is designed for comfort and not for handling. This is a sensible decision as most mid-size sedans will actually be used. The Honda Accord and Mazda 6 remain the better choices for driving enthusiasts.

The CVT also sabotages the engine with uneven power output. As in the outback, the engine and transmission don't seem to be on the same side. The jerky acceleration feels like riding with a beginner learning to ride a stick. This car requires a different transmission or at least a readjustment of the CVT. That would turn a good car into a great one.

Fuel economy and safety

Turbocharged 2020 legacy models like our test car have a combined output of 27 mpg (24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway), compared to 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway) for the old six-cylinder model. According to the car's on-board computer, we got an average of 24 mpg over a week. With the less powerful base engine, the Legacy is paired with 30 mpg (27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway).

The Legacy offers slightly better combined fuel economy in the city than a 2.0-liter turbo Honda Accord, but the Honda gets the same 32 MPG highway. The Nissan Altima is rated at 29 mpg (25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway) when combined with its optional turbo engine that uses variable compression to force out extra mpg. The Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry are also available with hybrid drives, but the Legacy is not.

The 2020 Legacy received the highest Top Safety Pick + rating from the Road Safety Insurance Institute as well as an overall five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – the highest safety rating from the federal agency.

Subaru offers a three year base 36,000 mile warranty and a five year 60,000 mile warranty on the powertrain. That's about the average for a mainstream brand, though Hyundai and Kia offer longer warranty periods. Subaru also has an excellent reputation for reliability.

2020 Subaru Legacy

How DT would configure this car

The Limited XT trim level tested here seems to be the sweet spot of the 2020 Legacy range. It gets the turbo engine, which is worth the extra money over a base engine that hasn't impressed in other newer Subaru vehicles. The Limited is also the lowest equipment option for the DriverFocus camera system, but only as part of an option package that also includes navigation, an electric sunroof and a heated steering wheel.

At the same time, it doesn't seem to make sense to upgrade to the highest touring trim level. The only features that are added are a front camera and nappa leather seats. The Limited is already equipped with leather seats, but allegedly made of inferior material.

It's unclear how much aftermarket support the 2020 Legacy will get, but this seems like a car with potential. Subaru is unlikely to offer a new version of the old Legacy 2.5GT Spec.B performance model, but it would be great to see one of these cars with stickier tires, bigger brakes, and improved suspension to match its turbo-charged performance.

Our opinion

The 2020 Subaru Legacy continues to stand out from the crowd. The optional turbo engine gives this new model the much needed momentum, and the all-wheel drive traction remains beneficial even in snowy climates. In addition, there is the EyeSight and DriverFocus technology as well as one of the best integrated touchscreens in the industry. The Legacy was meant to appeal to more than just traditional Subaru fans.

The legacy is not perfect. The Honda Accord and Mazda 6 are better driver cars, and the Hyundai Sonata has its own clever technology in the form of Smart Parking Assist self-parking. The Nissan Altima is better able to balance turbocharged performance with good mileage bring, and the Accord, Sonata and Toyota Camry are all available with hybrid drives for even better MPG.

Nevertheless, the Legacy covers all bases and, with its standard all-wheel drive, offers additional insurance for bad weather.

Should you get one

Yes. With all-wheel drive and lots of tech, the Legacy is a great alternative to the mainstays of the midsize sedan.

Editor's recommendations




02 Mar
Blog

2021 Kia Seltos First Drive Review: Great Tech, Great Value

2021 Kia Seltos

2021 Kia Seltos

"The 2021 Kia Seltos offers functionality and technology alike."

  • Spacious interior

  • Capable all-wheel drive

  • Peppy turbo engine

  • Great technical value

  • Control elements for driver assistance buried in the touchscreen

  • Mediocre handling

Variety can be the spice of life, right? But too much spice can cause heartburn.

In the media campaign for the Seltos 2021, Kia listed no fewer than 17 vehicles as potential competitors for its new subcompact crossover. This list includes prestigious models such as the Honda HR-V and the Hyundai Kona, the latter from Kia's parent brand. What did Kia do to differentiate the Seltos from this large group of rivals?

Shoppers may think they'll get sturdy SUVs, but vehicles in this class are essentially hatchbacks on stilts. Nevertheless, Kia made the Seltos as SUV-like as possible and gave it a more sophisticated all-wheel drive system than many of its competitors. Kia also emphasized the value and gave the Seltos a long list of driver aids and technical features.

Kia offers buyers a unique selection. The base price of $ 23,110 buys either an LX model with all-wheel drive or an S model without all-wheel drive (with more technical functions). Kia provided a four-wheel drive SX model with all-wheel drive for testing that starts at $ 29,010.

2021 Kia Seltos

Design & interior

The Seltos shares a base platform with the Hyundai Kona, but the two crossovers couldn't be more different when it comes to the exterior design. Where the Hyundai consists only of science fiction curves, the Kia looks more traditional and angular. It may be more like a compact hatchback, but the Seltos looks like an SUV.

It also offers more SUV-like benefits than many of its competitors. The Seltos offers significantly more space in the rear seats than its Kona platform mate and more cargo space than any direct competitor. However, the "Magic" folding mechanism of the Honda HR-V in the rear seat makes it easier to use the available cargo space. The Honda also offers more legroom in the rear seats than the Kia, while the Jeep Renegade offers more headroom in the front and rear. Regardless, the Seltos offers enough additional benefits to justify buying a car of comparable size – which is not always the case in this segment.

The interior of the Selto is also a nice place. It's not exactly fancy, but the materials feel reasonable for this price range. The upright roof leaves plenty of space for glass, offers a good view to the outside and gives the interior an airy feeling. The front seats felt decently comfortable in one day, and the back seats lean back.

2021 Kia Seltos

Tech, infotainment & driver assistant

The standard infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. SX models receive a 10.25-inch touchscreen as well as integrated navigation and satellite radio. While the systems have Kia's Uvo branding, they have the same graphics as the BlueLink systems we saw in the last Hyundai models.

It is not a bad thing. It is typical for Kia (and Hyundai) that the infotainment interface is not a problem, but is still easy to use. The only big mistake is that Kia forces the driver to dive deep into the on-screen menus to turn the driver aids on and off. It's not exactly easy to drive while driving, and we'd like Kia to have some hard buttons instead.

Speaking of driver aids: The Seltos offers more than its sibling Hyundai Kona. The LX equipment variant is equipped as standard with autonomous emergency braking (including pedestrian and cyclist detection) and a driver's attention monitor. For the same basic price, the S equipment variant offers a lane departure warning system and an automatic high beam. However, you have to do without the all-wheel drive to get it.

The infotainment interface is a bit uncomplicated, but still easy to use.

The adaptive cruise control is available, but only in the upper SX equipment variant. This function is not available on the Kona at all, but is available on some competitors and on the Honda HR-V standard. The Nissan Rogue Sport is available with the automaker's ProPilot Assist system, which combines adaptive cruise control with automated lane centering.

The Seltos also has a lane keeping assistant, which gives the lane keeping assistant a little more functionality. As standard, equipment variant S shows the center of the lane and not the lane markings in order to keep the vehicle on the right track. This means that the system steers proactively instead of waiting for the car to get off track. You can feel how the tracking support works, almost as if there are another pair of hands on the steering wheel. However, the inputs are relatively gentle, unlike some of the more basic lane keeping assistants we've come across.

2021 Kia Seltos

Experience behind the wheel

The Seltos comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine that delivers 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. This engine is connected to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Kia calls the intelligent variable transmission (IVT). Our test car had the optional 1.6-liter four-cylinder with turbocharger. Thanks to turbocharging, this smaller engine delivers 175 hp and 195 lb-ft. Kia paired it with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission for a sportier driving experience.

The turbocharged powertrain is a winner. The engine offers a lot of grunt and the fast gear changes of the double clutch transmission help to form the post. This is basically the same as the Hyundai Kona Ultimate, and it was also a standout feature of this car.

However, the Kia lacks the sporty handling of the Hyundai. There's nothing wrong with handling the Selto, but it's not as sharp and precise as the Kona. However, the Seltos is more comfortable to drive than the Kona, and the target buyer is more concerned with it than with the ability to carve corners. If you want your little crossover to feel like a sports car, buy the Hyundai or even better the Mazda CX-30.

The turbocharged powertrain is a winner.

The Seltos is available with front or four-wheel drive, the latter offering more functions than many systems in this segment. It allows the driver to manually lock the torque in a 50/50 split front / rear to ensure that the car doesn't drive front-wheel as standard. Torque vectoring directs performance from side to side to turn the seltos into corners. Hill start assist and hill descent control are standard. The four-wheel drive system even has a cool name: Dynamax.

These functions should increase confidence in bad weather or on unpaved roads, but do not make the Seltos an off-roader. Kia quickly pointed out that the Seltos has a better approach angle than a Jeep Renegade or Subaru Crosstrek, which means you're less likely to smash the front end into something when driving over uneven terrain.

But the Seltos has less ground clearance than the Crosstrek or Renegade. On a dirt road that was part of the route, something scratched the floor of the car. It is therefore hard to imagine that you feel safe when driving the Seltos on an actual off-road trail. The Renegade remains the only vehicle in this segment with real off-road capabilities.

2021 Kia Seltos

Fuel consumption and security

The fuel consumption values ​​for the 2.0-liter / CVT combination are 31 mpg (29 mpg city, 34 mpg motorway) with front-wheel drive and 29 mpg (27 mpg city, 31 mpg motorway) with all-wheel drive. The 1.6-liter turbo engine and the dual clutch transmission are only available with all-wheel drive and have a total output of 27 mpg (25 mpg city, 30 mpg highway).

Fuel consumption is quite competitive compared to other vehicles in this segment, not to mention some conventional cars. Less aerodynamic body and extra weight usually result in crossovers being penalized for mileage, but this is not very serious.

The Seltos delivers the things that distinguish crossovers from ordinary cars.

The Seltos is a new model, so it is difficult to predict future reliability. However, Kia has an overall good reputation for reliability and offers generous warranty coverage. The Kia 10-year warranty on the drivetrain and the five-year warranty of 60,000 miles on the drivetrain are only covered by the parent company Hyundai.

Crash test assessments by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) are currently not available.

How DT would configure this car

The SX trim level seems to be the best option. It not only receives the livelier turbo engine and the fast-switching dual clutch transmission, but is also the only equipment variant from Seltos with adaptive cruise control. Since the SX is the top equipment variant, it also contains the technical features of the bottom equipment variants such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and charging the mobile phone. Even with a base price that's about $ 6,000 higher than the cheapest Seltos, the long list of features of the SX is a good value.

Our opinion

Many crossovers in this price range claim to offer SUV robustness, but are really just glorified hatchback models. The 2021 Kia Seltos is the real deal.

The Seltos delivers the things that distinguish crossovers from ordinary cars. It offers impressive cargo space for a vehicle of this size and an all-wheel drive system that makes a real difference in bad weather. This is in contrast to the platform colleague of the Selto, the Hyundai Kona. While the Kona is a good vehicle, its lack of cargo space and car-like behavior make it difficult to buy a vehicle instead of a conventional hatchback.

In such a crowded field, competitors inevitably do certain things better than the Seltos. The Kia lacks the off-road capability of the Jeep Renegade or the off-road capability of the Mazda CX-30. While Seltos is available with many driver aids, the Honda HR-V offers more of them as standard. Although it may not be the best in some areas, the Seltos does everything well.

Should you get one?

Yes. The Seltos is an impressive value.

Editor's recommendations




25 Feb
Blog

2020 Hyundai Venue First Drive Review: All The Tech For Less

2020 Hyundai venue outside

2020 Hyundai Venue first ride review: All technology for less

"The Hyundai Venue 2020 offers a lot of technology at an affordable price."

  • Good technical value

  • High quality interior

  • Comfortable ride

  • Gutless motor

  • Driver aids work poorly

It is now a matter of course that American buyers prefer crossovers over normal cars. As a result, automakers are increasing the driving heights of small hatchbacks to develop new models that have the crossover look but not the utility or all-wheel drive. The trend started with the Toyota C-HR and Nissan Kicks, and now we have a new entry – the 2020 Hyundai Venue.

The venue follows the same recipe as the C-HR and Kicks. According to Hyundai, however, it is primarily aimed at used car buyers. Hyundai believes that a low base price combined with the latest technology and a new car guarantee will attract buyers of used car lots. Starting at $ 18,345, the venue offers a ton of technology for the money, including standard Apple CarPlay / Android Auto and a variety of driver aids.

But is the 2020 Hyundai Venue really cheap and cheerful or just cheap? At Hyundai's invitation, I drove a venue from Miami to the Florida Keys to find out.

Design and style

The venue differs from conventional small hatchback models in its design. It's a bit bigger, both because of an upright, boxy body shape and because of a higher ride height. The venue also carries the same grille as larger Hyundai crossovers to reaffirm the idea that it's not just a regular car.

2020 Hyunda venue profileStephen Edelstein / Digital Trends

Like the Nissan Kicks, the Venue is available in a two-tone color scheme that gives the car a bit more personality. However, this option is only available in the upper denim trim. You have only one color combination to choose from – blue with a white roof.

Your mileage may vary depending on the design, but a box-shaped design should offer more passenger and cargo space than something leaner and more car-like. Despite its sloping roofline, the Toyota C-HR has more cargo space than the venue.

Meanwhile, the kicks has more cargo space and more passenger space than the Toyota or Hyundai. On paper, the venue has more headroom and legroom for the rear passengers than the kicks, but that's not much in the real world.

The venue differs from conventional small hatchback models in its design.

The back seats of the venue are narrow, especially if the front seats are designed for tall people. The hold is good for a small hatchback, but not impressive compared to real crossovers. Even the Hyundai Kona, a tiny vehicle, offers more.

When it comes to utility, the venue (and other similar vehicles) don't offer enough to justify the crossover label. If you buy the venue against used cars, as Hyundai believes, many buyers will likely find something with more space at the same price.

2020 Hyundai Venue touchscreenStephen Edelstein / Digital Trends

The front seats are at least a nice place. They are comfortable for a vehicle in this price range, although we prefer the more supportive chairs in the Nissan Kicks. Hyundai also has nothing to do with Nissan's optional Bose audio system, which has speakers in the front headrests.

However, the interior and overall design of the venue look more sophisticated than that of the Nissan, and both the kicks and venue look more inviting than the Toyota C-HR, which appears to be outdated in comparison.

technology

Hyundai has saved on interior space, but not on technology. The affordable venue is equipped with numerous technical functions as standard.

The standard infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Toyota offers the same screen in the C-HR and adds Android Auto in addition to Apple CarPlay for the 2020 model year.

Nissan requires you to upgrade the basic equipment of the Kicks S to the SV to get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The largest touchscreen available is only 7 inches tall. Venue models equipped with navigation also receive real-time traffic information at no extra charge.

This is where Hyundai's strategy comes in to play the venue off against used cars. You are not guaranteed to find these connectivity features on every older vehicle.

The venue is an entry-level model, but it offers a lot of technology.

As with other Hyundai models, the infotainment system is simple but functional. The graphics on the screen are not complex, but are easy to read at a glance. Keyboard shortcuts for menus make it easier to use the system while driving.

Hyundai also offers several places, including a shelf on the passenger side of the dashboard, which looks like a good place to rest a phone. At least until you accelerate or brake hard and the phone flies.

The event location is equipped as standard with an autonomous emergency braking system, a lane departure warning system and an attention monitor for the driver. The SEL trim in the middle area offers monitoring of the blind spot and a warning of rear traffic.

As with infotainment technology, used cars with these features may not be available at the same price, so Hyundai's argument is correct. However, the event's new car competitors offer technologies similar to the standard equipment – as well as functions that the event location does not offer. The Toyota C-HR has adaptive cruise control, while the Nissan Kicks has autonomous reverse braking.

Stephen Edelstein / Digital Trends

The driver's aids at the venue are mixed. The lane departure warning system was too sensitive, since every slight deviation from a straight line was a possible off-road excursion. It was also confused by highway exits. The lane departure warning system is not only shy, but also pulls aggressively on the steering wheel to bring the venue back into line.

I was impressed with the ability to monitor the blind spot to see cars far behind the line of sight, but the loud warning sound sounded like a bad television special. Instead of being helpful, it was a joke.

Experience behind the wheel

According to Hyundai, the venue was designed for young city dwellers, and my test drive began and ended in downtown Miami, with sections of the highway in between. Here Hyundai's Penny Pinching began to show itself.

The venue is only available with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 121 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque. If that doesn't sound enough to you, you're right. It's easy to assume that driving in the city is just about sitting in traffic, but that's not really the case. Maneuvers that would have been routine in most other cars became nerve-wracking.

This may be due in part to the transfer of the event location. Base SE models get a six-speed manual, but my two test cars (a SEL and a denim) had the optional continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Hyundai calls the IVT (for "intelligent variable transmission").

The manual would at least have given more control and helped keep the engine in its power range. The problem could also be poor coordination. Nissan's kicks also use a CVT and offer similar performance to the venue (122 hp and 114 lb-ft). But the kicks don't feel nearly as sluggish as the venue.

This little Hyundai was comfortable and quiet, but not fun.

Auto people like to say that driving a slow car fast is more fun than driving a fast car slowly, but the venue is the exception to this rule. This little Hyundai was comfortable and quiet, but not fun. It is small but not agile. The driving experience was so understated that we didn't mind being in Florida, a state notorious for its lack of good roads.

In order to keep the price of the venue low, Hyundai did not use all-wheel drive. The additional traction of the all-wheel drive is one of the reasons for choosing a crossover instead of a conventional car. However, the all-wheel drive would have increased $ 2,000 in manufacturing costs (which would have driven up the base price) and 200lbs in curb weight (which would have had an impact on fuel consumption), Derek Joyce, PR manager for Hyundai crossovers, told Digital Trends.

The venue is only front-wheel drive. Fortunately for Hyundai, it's the Nissan Kicks and the Toyota C-HR. The venue does have a "snow mode" for traction control that changes throttle response and CVT behavior for more grip, but I couldn't test that in sunny Florida.

Fuel consumption and security

The 2020 Hyundai Venue is rated at 32 mpg combined (30 mpg city, 34 mpg highway) with the CVT and 30 mpg combined (27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway) with the six-speed manual. This places the venue below the Nissan Kicks, which achieves a total of 33 mpg, and above the Toyota C-HR, which achieves a total of 29 mpg (both vehicles are only available with CVT).

2020 Hyundai Venue first rideStephen Edelstein / Digital Trends

The venue is a new model, so it is difficult to predict future reliability. Overall, Hyundai has a reputation for reliability and offers one of the longest guarantees in the business. The Korean automaker's 10-year drivetrain warranty of 100,000 miles and the 5-year drivetrain warranty of 60,000 miles far exceed Nissan and Toyota.

The venue is new, so crash test assessments by the Road Safety Insurance Institute (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are not yet available.

How DT would configure this car

My ideal 2020 Hyundai Venue is a denim model. The denim has optional technical functions such as monitoring the blind spot, warning of cross traffic at the rear and navigation from the SEL trim level, giving it a portion of style. The two-tone blue and white exterior and the blue interior of the denim make the venue feel special. At $ 23,045, the denim is a big step up from the base Venue SE starting price of $ 18,345 and still a good value.

Conclusion

The 2020 Hyundai Venue is a solid car, but whether it's the right car for you depends on your priorities. If you are looking for a real crossover with more interior space than a normal car and all-wheel drive, look elsewhere. The venue is more like a high hatchback than a real crossover.

This also applies to the Nissan Kicks and the Toyota C-HR, the two logical rivals of the venue. The Nissan and Toyota also have no four-wheel drive and are similar in size to the Hyundai. We were impressed by the quality of the material and the general sophistication of the venue, but it's not a clear victory. The kicks don't have a standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but more interior space and a bolder motor. The C-HR has a higher base price, but is equipped with an adaptive cruise control as standard, which is not available at the event location at any price.

What about the used cars that Hyundai said were the real rivals of the venue? Priorities are also important here. The venue offers the latest technology and a new car guarantee, but at the expense of the interior and acceleration. Hyundai offers more technology and security for the money, but it is possible to bring more cars to the used market.

Should you get one?

Yes. The 2020 Hyundai Venue may not be a true crossover, but it is a good car.

Editor's recommendations




16 Feb
Blog

Interactive Cardio Tech That Pushes You Harder

The difficulty with cardio training – high intensity or slow and steady – is the right effort. Every man should do HIIT training, especially because most of us have so little time during the day to make room for exercise. The problem, however, is that we tend not to HIIT hard enough. Reaching between 80 and 100 percent of your maximum heart rate is uncomfortable, and the body prefers to avoid pain.

That's right; Your high-intensity workouts are not intense enough. And we tend to put too much pressure on slow and steady workouts. The new iFit ActivePulse solves that.

10 HIIT workouts for summer

Put on the heart rate wristband, step into an iFit-compatible interactive cardio machine (treadmill, rowing machine or bike) and choose an intensity. The machine automatically changes speed or resistance so you can work in the right zone, so no self-monitoring is required. Use it consistently and your fitness should improve – and the machine will push you even harder next time.

You can even choose a personal coach to help you with your efforts. A personal coach through iFit can also take you on a virtual fitness adventure where the equipment adapts to your virtual location. All of these elements together maximize your HIIT workout.

Subscribe to YouTube for access to exclusive equipment videos, celebrity interviews and more!