Automotive
Introducing the All-New 2025 Nissan Kicks: Redefining Compact Crossovers
Introducing the all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks: a compact crossover with innovative technology, sleek design, and unmatched versatility.
Are you ready to up your crossover game? The all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks is here to raise the bar in the compact crossover segment. With its unexpected levels of available technology, sleek design inspired by high-end sneakers, exceptional versatility, and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the new Kicks is set to make a lasting impression. Let’s dive into the exciting features of this stunning vehicle.
Confidence on Any Terrain
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is the first-ever Kicks model to offer Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD), providing you with additional confidence and control in various weather conditions and road surfaces. Whether it’s rain, snow, or rough roads, the AWD system ensures that you can navigate through them with ease. Plus, the “Snow” driving mode specifically tunes the all-wheel-drive and vehicle dynamic control systems to optimize performance on slippery surfaces, keeping you safe and secure.
Bold and Expressive Design
When it comes to design, the 2025 Nissan Kicks stands out from the crowd. With its bold and expressive exterior, this compact crossover makes a big impact. The wide stance, fenders, and rounded, protected cabin create an eye-catching silhouette. The lower half of the vehicle features strong fenders and a distinctive boxiness, while the upper body maintains a clean and sleek look.
But the design details don’t stop there. Inspired by athletic sneaker soles, the rocker panels of the Kicks feature an intricate, three-dimensional shape that adds texture and visual interest. Even the rear of the vehicle catches your attention, with a subtle roof spoiler and full-width LED taillights that wrap around into combination lights on the flared rear fenders. The 2025 Nissan Kicks was designed to turn heads on the road.
Modern and Airy Interior
Step inside the 2025 Nissan Kicks, and you’ll be greeted by a modern and airy interior. The dual-screen setup on the dashboard, one for the instrument meter and one for the infotainment system, provides a sleek and futuristic look. The standard 7-inch meter can be upgraded to a striking 12.3-inch unit on the SR grade, offering two display modes for a more traditional or enhanced view.
In terms of comfort and convenience, the Kicks has you covered. The seats feature Nissan’s Zero Gravity™ seating design, providing a more comfortable seating position and reducing fatigue during long journeys. The center console offers plenty of storage space, including two cupholders designed to fit a 30-ounce coffee tumbler and an enclosed storage compartment. The doors also have bottle holders large enough for a 32-ounce tumbler.
Adventure-Ready Spaciousness
The 2025 Nissan Kicks was designed to optimize interior room for both passengers and cargo. Compared to its predecessor, the front and rear of the Kicks offer increased shoulder room and knee room, making road trips more comfortable for everyone. But it’s the cargo space that truly impresses. With up to 30 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats raised (and up to 60 cubic feet with the seats lowered), the Kicks leads the class in cargo capacity. It’s perfect for those who need extra room for luggage, sports equipment, or any other adventures you have planned.
Driver Assistance for Maximum Confidence
Safety is a top priority in the 2025 Nissan Kicks. Every model comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield® 360, which includes features like Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist. Additionally, the Kicks SR grade offers the class-exclusive Intelligent Around View Monitor, providing a virtual 360-degree, bird’s-eye camera view to simplify parking and low-speed maneuvers.
Effortless Infotainment
Staying connected on the go is essential, and the 2025 Nissan Kicks makes it effortless. With intuitive infotainment features and available wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, you can seamlessly connect your devices without the need for cables. Plus, the Kicks offers up to four USB Type-C ports and a wireless charging pad, ensuring that your devices stay powered up on any journey.
Power and Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2025 Nissan Kicks boasts a 2.0-liter inline-four engine that delivers 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Paired with Nissan’s latest generation Xtronic transmission, this powertrain ensures confident acceleration and efficient performance.
Choose Your Adventure
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is available in three compelling grade levels: S, SV, and SR. With two available Premium packages, you can customize your Kicks to fit your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you want a stylish commuter vehicle or a versatile crossover for your next adventure, there’s a Kicks model for you.
Get ready to elevate your driving experience with the all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks. With its innovative features, sleek design, and reliable performance, this compact crossover has everything you need for an unforgettable journey. Keep an eye out for the Kicks when it arrives at Nissan dealerships later this summer. Pricing details will be announced closer to the on-sale date.
For more information and updates, visit the Nissan USA website or follow Nissan on social media. Buckle up and get ready for the future of compact crossovers with the 2025 Nissan Kicks!
https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner/automotive/
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STM Blog
End of an Era for a famous SoCal Car Dealership
The legendary Cal Worthington car dealership chain has closed its final location in Long Beach, ending a 70-year run. Discover the story behind the iconic “dog Spot” commercials and the West Coast automotive pioneer who changed car advertising forever.
Last Updated on November 23, 2025 by Daily News Staff
From early childhood to adulthood, I vividly remember the catchy jingle that echoed through our house whenever Cal Worthington’s Dealerships commercials aired during news breaks, sporting events, and our favorite television shows.
Sadly, that era has come to an end. The legendary dealership, which once peaked at twenty-seven locations across the Western states, has closed its last remaining location in Long Beach, California.
The dealership had a remarkable seventy-year run. However, after Cal Worthington’s passing nearly a decade ago, it struggled to find its financial footing. According to Nick Worthington, Cal’s grandson, the iconic business faced numerous challenges that ultimately led to this closure.
Calvin Coolidge Worthington (November 27, 1920 – September 8, 2013) was a well-known American car dealer, celebrated especially on the West Coast of the United States. He gained fame through his eccentric radio and television advertisements for his Worthington Dealership Group, a car dealership chain that extended across the western and southwestern U.S. at its peak.
Cal Worthington’s advertisements were unique and memorable, often starting with the announcement, “Here’s Cal Worthington and his dog Spot!”—though “Spot” was never actually a dog. Instead, “Spot” could be anything from a tiger, a seal, an elephant, a chimpanzee, to a bear. In one particularly notable ad, “Spot” was a hippopotamus, which Worthington rode during the commercial. Occasionally, “Spot” even took the form of a vehicle, such as an airplane on whose wings Worthington would be seen standing while airborne. “Spot” was officially retired in the mid-1980s, but was occasionally mentioned in later commercials, maintaining the legacy of the unconventional mascot.
According to a 1990 profile published in the Sacramento Bee, Worthington grossed $316.8 million in 1988, making him the largest single owner of a car dealership chain at that time. His dedicated advertising agency, aptly named Spot Advertising, had only Worthington as its client and spent a staggering $15 million on commercials, more than any other auto dealer at the time.
Cal Worthington sold automobiles from 1945 until his passing in 2013 and owned an impressive 24,000-acre (9,700 ha; 38 sq mi) ranch located in Orland, California, north of Sacramento. His legendary marketing tactics and the persona of “Spot” have left an indelible mark on the car dealership industry and television advertising.
With the closure of the last Worthington dealership, an iconic chapter in automotive retail history and television advertising has come to an end, leaving behind fond memories and an enduring legacy.
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Automotive
2026 Nissan Sentra: Redefining Compact Sedan Value at $22,400
The all-new 2026 Nissan Sentra starts at $22,400 with dual 12.3-inch displays, ProPILOT Assist, and class-exclusive tech. Discover why it’s redefining value.
Last Updated on November 11, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Sentra re-energizes the compact sedan segment with a bold new design and even greater levels of drive-enhancing technology
2026 Nissan Sentra: Redefining Compact Sedan Value at $22,400
Nissan just threw down the gauntlet in the compact sedan segment. The all-new 2026 Sentra isn’t just a refresh—it’s a complete reimagining of what drivers should expect from an affordable sedan. Starting at just $22,400, this latest generation proves you don’t need to compromise on style, technology, or comfort to stay within budget.A Bold New Look That Punches Above Its Weight
The 2026 Sentra arrives with an upscale design that looks more premium than its price tag suggests. Nissan clearly studied what buyers loved about higher-end sedans and brought those design cues down to the compact class. The result? A car that turns heads without emptying wallets. For those craving extra attitude, the SR trim adds gloss black sporty accents across the front and rear fascia, V-motion grille, side sills, and rear spoiler—all riding on standard 18-inch alloy wheels. It’s the kind of aggressive styling that makes your morning commute feel a little more exciting.Technology That Simplifies Your Drive
Here’s where the Sentra really shines. Nissan packed this compact sedan with tech features typically reserved for luxury vehicles: Class-Leading Displays: Available dual 12.3-inch screens give you a command center that rivals what you’d find in vehicles costing twice as much. Smart Safety Features: The class-exclusive Intelligent Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection takes the guesswork out of tight parking situations. And the class-exclusive Intelligent Forward Collision Warning? That’s the kind of proactive safety tech that could save lives. Seamless Connectivity: Standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ mean no more fumbling with cables. Three standard USB-C ports ensure everyone’s devices stay charged, and available wireless charging adds another layer of convenience. Garage Door Integration: The Sentra-first myQ Universal Garage Door Opener lets you control compatible garage doors right from the infotainment screen. It’s one of those features you don’t know you need until you have it.Comfort That Goes the Distance
Long drives? No problem. Nissan equipped the Sentra with front and rear Zero Gravity seats—the same ergonomic design philosophy used in their larger vehicles. Your passengers will thank you on road trips. Speaking of road trips, the spacious trunk features a low lift-over height and optimized opening designed specifically for loading bulky suitcases and gear. It’s the kind of practical design thinking that makes real-world ownership easier. The segment-first capacitive-touch HVAC controls add a modern, premium feel to the cabin, while the class-exclusive 64-color customizable ambient lighting lets you set the mood for every drive.Performance That Adapts to Your Mood
The drive mode selector (available on SV, SR, and SL grades) includes a Sport mode for when you want a more engaging driving experience. Whether you’re navigating rush hour or carving through weekend backroads, the Sentra adapts to match your energy. And with EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 30 mpg city, 38 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined (S and SV models), you’ll spend less time at the pump and more time enjoying the drive.The Premium SL Experience
New for 2026, the SL grade returns to deliver a truly upscale experience. Standard features include:- Power sunroof
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 64-color ambient lighting
- TailorFit™ quilted seating
- ProPILOT Assist for effortless highway cruising
- Bose® premium audio system
Exceptional Value Across the Lineup
Sentra S – $22,400: The entry point delivers impressive standard features that make it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. Sentra SV – $23,170: Adds key convenience and technology upgrades for less than $800 more. Sentra SR – $25,000: Brings the sporty styling and enhanced driving dynamics for enthusiasts. Sentra SL – $27,990: The premium choice with luxury-level features at a fraction of luxury prices. (Destination and handling adds $1,245 to all models)The Bottom Line
The 2026 Nissan Sentra isn’t trying to be everything to everyone—it’s focused on being the best value in the compact sedan segment. With segment-leading technology, class-exclusive features, and pricing that starts under $23,000, Nissan has created a compelling case for why the sedan isn’t dead—it’s just been waiting for the right execution. In a market increasingly dominated by SUVs and crossovers, the Sentra reminds us why sedans still matter: better fuel economy, easier parking, more engaging driving dynamics, and in this case, technology that punches well above its weight class. The all-new 2026 Sentra proves that incredible value doesn’t mean settling for less. Sometimes, it means getting more than you expected. Press release: All-new 2026 Nissan Sentra offers incredible value with pricing from $22,400Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner/
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Slate Automotive captured national attention earlier this year when it unveiled what many called the most anticipated “budget” electric pickup truck in America. Promising a minimalist design, domestic manufacturing, and a base price under $20,000 (after incentives), the Slate Truck was positioned as the EV industry’s boldest answer to the affordability problem.
But since its April 2025 debut, several developments have reshaped that story — including pricing adjustments, production plans, and questions about whether “affordable” will still apply once federal incentives fade.
⚙️ From Concept to Production
In April, Slate Auto revealed its small two-door electric pickup — a compact, customizable EV designed for simplicity over luxury. The company’s philosophy is centered around what it calls the “Blank Slate” concept: a base model stripped of unnecessary features but built for expansion.
- Base range: ~150 miles, with an optional battery upgrade to ~240 miles
- Length: ~175 inches (roughly the size of a compact SUV)
- Body style: 2-door truck, with a conversion kit planned for a 5-seat SUV variant
- Manufacturing site: Warsaw, Indiana — a repurposed 1.4-million-square-foot former printing plant
- Production start: Targeting late 2026
- Estimated deliveries: Early 2027
For more on early EV innovation and transport development, check out our recent stories on Boom Supersonic’s Overture and The Evolution of Public Transportation in Los Angeles.
💲 Price Bump and Policy Changes
When Slate’s founders — backed by investors including Jeff Bezos and Mark Walter (Guggenheim Partners) — launched the concept, they confidently pitched a price “under $20,000 after incentives.”
However, recent developments have changed that equation. The loss of a key federal EV tax credit under recent legislation means the base price now sits closer to $27,000 before incentives. Even with state-level rebates, the total cost will likely land in the mid-$20K range for most buyers.
That’s still lower than most EVs on the market, but Slate’s base model is extremely minimal: manual windows, no touchscreen infotainment, and unpainted exterior panels in the entry trim. The company argues that the simplicity keeps prices low and durability high — echoing the utilitarian design of early pickups.
“We don’t believe an affordable EV should start at $60,000,” a Slate spokesperson said during the reveal. “Our truck is for people who want a reliable tool, not a gadget.”
🧩 Reservations and Early Demand
According to TechCrunch, Slate logged over 100,000 $50 refundable reservations within two weeks of launch — an impressive early show of interest.
That figure, however, does not guarantee actual orders. As seen with other EV startups, reservation enthusiasm doesn’t always translate into deliveries. Still, with $700 million in investor funding and a clear U.S. manufacturing plan, Slate’s prospects appear stronger than many early EV challengers.
🏭 Building in America
The company’s decision to set up shop in Indiana is strategic. It provides central U.S. access to suppliers and a lower-cost workforce compared to coastal hubs. The plant conversion is underway, and Slate aims to ramp up to 150,000 units annually by 2027, according to industry reporting.
If successful, the Slate Truck could become the first mass-produced electric pickup under $30K built entirely in the U.S.
🚦 What It Means for Affordable EVs
Slate’s progress comes at a pivotal moment for electric mobility. As other manufacturers focus on high-margin luxury vehicles, the affordable-EV space has thinned out. Slate’s entry signals a renewed interest in accessible electrification — but also highlights the fragile balance between price, policy, and practicality.
If production holds, the Slate Truck could mark the beginning of a new chapter for everyday EV ownership — proof that electric doesn’t have to mean expensive.
📎 Further Reading and Related Links
From STM Daily News:
- Boom Supersonic and the Future of Flight
- The Evolution of Los Angeles Public Transportation
- The Long Track Back Podcast: America’s Transportation Comeback
Outside Sources for Further Information:
- TechCrunch: Bezos-backed Slate Auto Debuts “Analog” EV Pickup
- Car and Driver: 2027 Slate Truck Revealed
- Hagerty: Slate to Build Affordable EV Truck in Indiana
- Business Insider: Slate Auto Drops “Under $20K” Tag After Policy Change
- Newsweek: Slate Auto Confirms Funding and Bezos Involvement
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