Automotive
Nissan Kicks and Murano Named ‘Most Dependable’ in J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In a world where reliability and quality reign supreme, Nissan has once again proven its mettle. The results of the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability StudySM (VDS) are in, and the Nissan Kicks and Nissan Murano have both taken the spotlight, earning top honors in their respective segments. The Kicks was named the Most Dependable Small SUV, while the Murano clinched the title of Most Dependable Midsize SUV for the 2022 model year.
A Commitment to Quality
The accolades are a testament to Nissan’s unwavering commitment to delivering vehicles that prioritize quality, durability, reliability, and safety. “The Nissan Kicks and Murano winning most dependable small and midsize SUVs highlights our commitment to putting quality at the heart of everything we do,” said Vinay Shahani, senior vice president of U.S. marketing and sales, Nissan Americas. “We produce vehicles that our customers can depend on and enjoy for years to come.”
This dedication to dependability is no small feat. Now in its 36th year, the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study surveys owners of three-year-old vehicles across 184 potential problem areas, diving deep into nine categories: infotainment, features and controls, exterior, driving assistance, interior, powertrain, seats, driving experience, and climate. Both the 2022 Kicks and Murano scored impressively above their segment averages, showcasing their reliability.
Innovative Features of the 2025 Nissan Kicks
The all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks, which hit the market last year, features a modern, street-smart design. This small SUV boasts unexpected levels of technology, a versatile interior, and best-in-class standard ground clearance. With the Kicks-first available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and the option of ProPILOT Assist for highway driving, this SUV offers enhanced confidence for drivers tackling various terrains and road conditions.
If you’re interested in learning more about the 2025 Nissan Kicks, including detailed specifications, pricing, and multimedia assets, be sure to visit the full press kit for all the juicy details!
The Striking 2025 Nissan Murano
On the other hand, the all-new 2025 Nissan Murano, launched in late 2024, merges stunning design with premium features and seamless connectivity. It showcases a bold new look paired with a powerful 241-horsepower, 2.0-liter VC-Turbo powertrain that doesn’t just promise performance—it delivers. Murano also seamlessly integrates technology with its available Google built-in capabilities, ensuring drivers stay connected on the go.
Additionally, with standard Nissan Safety Shield® 360, along with new driver-assistance technologies like the innovative Invisible Hood View, the Murano takes driver confidence to the next level, making it an exceptional choice for families or anyone seeking a reliable midsize SUV.
Conclusion
In a landscape filled with choices, the Nissan Kicks and Murano stand out not only for their dependability but also for their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re searching for a small SUV that’s stylish and tech-savvy or a midsize SUV that embodies performance and connectivity, these two winners have got you covered.
Kudos to Nissan for continually pushing the envelope and prioritizing the needs of customers who value dependability in their vehicles. With the J.D. Power recognition as a driving force, there’s no doubt that both the Kicks and Murano will continue to impress drivers across the nation for years to come!
Nissan Kicks & Murano Named Most Dependable in 2025 J.D. Power Study – Kelly Atumotive Group
https://www.kellyauto.com/nissan-kicks-murano-named-most-dependable-in-2025-j-d-power-study
JD Powers – Kicks
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/nissan/kicks/trim
JD Powers – Murano
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/nissan/murano/trim
Welcome 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
Groundbreaking for a Sustainable Future: LA Metro’s Southeast Gateway Line Light Rail Project
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Automotive
The 2026 Nissan LEAF Debuts: A Bold New Era for Affordable EVs

Nissan unveils all-new third-generation LEAF
The All-New 2026 Nissan LEAF Is Here — Sleek, Smart, and Ready to Lead
Nissan has officially lifted the curtain on the all-new 2026 LEAF, and it’s not just an update—it’s a total reinvention. The third-generation LEAF blends sleek, aerodynamic styling with SUV-like proportions, signaling a bold departure from the hatchback form that defined the nameplate for over a decade. This refreshed design marks a new chapter for one of the world’s most accessible and best-selling electric vehicles.
With nearly 700,000 global sales under its belt, the LEAF has long been a pioneer in the mass-market EV space. The 2026 model takes that foundation and builds upon it in every direction—design, technology, comfort, and capability. Whether you’re a loyal EV enthusiast or making the switch from a gas-powered car, Nissan’s newest electric offering is designed to meet you where you are and elevate your driving experience.
@stmblog The all-new 2026 Nissan LEAF is here! Sleek SUV style, longer range, smart tech & faster charging. Arrives this fall. ⚡🚗 #NissanLEAF ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews
Striking Design Meets Everyday Versatility
The all-new LEAF sports clean, sculpted body lines and a wide stance that echoes modern crossover aesthetics. Inside, the cabin is minimal yet inviting, focused on comfort, spaciousness, and wellbeing. A dimming panoramic roof with heat shielding adds a premium touch, while ambient lighting in 64 available colors helps set the perfect mood for any drive.
Performance Meets Practicality
Among the most impressive upgrades is a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery offering up to 75 kWh of usable capacity—meaning more range, more freedom, and more confidence. Faster charging speeds and the inclusion of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port with Plug & Charge capability further simplify EV ownership.
Nissan’s all-new 3-in-1 powertrain—a compact, integrated system combining motor, inverter, and reducer—delivers both efficiency and power in a sleek package. It’s an engineering advancement that supports the LEAF’s mission of providing reliable, affordable electric mobility for all.
Tech-Savvy and Feature-Rich
This isn’t just a car—it’s a rolling tech hub. The 2026 LEAF offers dual 14.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and Google built-in features like Google Maps. Drivers will enjoy innovative tools like the Invisible Hood View, Front Wide View, and the 3D Intelligent Around View® Monitor—making tight parking and complex driving environments far easier to navigate.
Audiophiles take note: the available Bose® Personal® Plus audio system ensures that your soundtrack is every bit as premium as your ride.
Built to Impress, Ready for the Road
With details like flush door handles, holographic 3D tail lamps, and available 19-inch wheels, the 2026 LEAF is clearly designed to turn heads. But its mission is practical at heart: making electric driving seamless for everyday users. From its improved range to thoughtful in-cabin tech, Nissan is aiming squarely at the mainstream with this launch.
Assembly for the U.S. and Canadian markets will take place at Nissan’s Tochigi plant in Japan, where the LEAF will be built alongside the Ariya SUV.
The 2026 Nissan LEAF arrives at U.S. dealerships this fall, with availability in other global markets to follow.
Want more 2026 Nissan LEAF details or a feature breakdown?
Stay tuned for a full review once test drives are available—or check out the full press kit for deep specs on every trim level https://usa.nissannews.com/en-US/releases/the-iconic-ev-reimagined-nissan-unveils-all-new-third-generation-leaf
Welcome 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!
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Automotive
Slate Auto’s $20,000 Electric Truck: Redefining Affordable EVs for Everyday Americans
Slate Auto is shaking up the EV market with a $25,000 no-frills electric truck, backed by Jeff Bezos and built for everyday Americans.

Image Credit: Slate Auto
A Michigan startup backed by Jeff Bezos is challenging the luxury EV market with a no-frills approach that’s capturing nationwide attention
When most people think of electric vehicles, images of Tesla’s sleek Model S or Ford’s high-tech Lightning come to mind – along with their premium price tags. But Slate Auto, a Troy, Michigan-based startup, is taking a radically different approach that’s got 100,000 Americans reaching for their wallets.
The Anti-Luxury EV
Slate’s electric pickup truck starts at just $25,000 to $27,500, making it one of the most affordable EVs ever announced. But here’s the catch – and the genius – behind their strategy: they’re stripping away everything that typically drives up EV costs.
No paint. No stereo system. No touchscreens. Not even power windows.
“We’re building the truck that America actually needs, not the one Silicon Valley thinks we want,” the company’s approach suggests, though they let their product speak for itself.
Backed by Billions, Built for the Masses
Despite its bare-bones approach, Slate Auto isn’t a garage startup. The company has secured approximately $700 million in funding from heavyweights investors including Jeff Bezos, Mark Walter, and Thomas Tull. This financial backing gives them the resources to challenge established automakers while maintaining their commitment to affordability.
The company plans to manufacture their trucks at a former Donnelly factory in Warsaw, Indiana, with production expected to begin in late 2026.
Market Response: 100,000 and Counting
Within just two weeks of opening reservations, Slate collected 100,000 orders at $50 each – generating $5 million in immediate revenue and demonstrating significant pent-up demand for affordable electric vehicles.
This response suggests that while the automotive industry has been focused on premium EVs loaded with features, there’s a massive market of consumers who simply want reliable, affordable electric transportation.
The Customization Philosophy
Slate’s minimalist approach isn’t just about cost-cutting – it’s about empowerment. By delivering a basic platform, they’re enabling customers to customize their trucks according to their specific needs and budgets. Want paint? Add it yourself or have it done locally. Need a sound system? Install exactly what you want.
This philosophy extends the vehicle’s lifecycle, as second and third owners can continue customizing and upgrading, potentially increasing long-term customer satisfaction and resale value.
What This Means for the EV Market
Slate Auto’s approach represents a fundamental shift in EV strategy. While competitors race to add more features, screens, and luxury appointments, Slate is proving that sometimes less really is more.
For communities like Phoenix, where transportation costs significantly impact family budgets, a $25,000 electric truck could be transformative. Small businesses, contractors, and everyday families who’ve been priced out of the EV market suddenly have an entry point.

Image Credit: Slate Auto
Slate Auto: Looking Ahead
As Slate moves toward their 2026 production timeline, they face the typical challenges of any automotive startup: scaling manufacturing, maintaining quality, and delivering on promises. However, their reservation numbers suggest they’ve identified a genuine market need that established automakers have overlooked.
The success or failure of Slate’s minimalist approach could reshape how the entire industry thinks about electric vehicles. Are consumers really demanding luxury features, or do they just want affordable, reliable electric transportation?
We’ll be following Slate Auto’s progress closely as they work toward production, bringing you updates on this potentially game-changing approach to electric vehicles.—STM Daily News will continue covering Slate Auto’s development and the broader evolution of affordable electric vehicles. Have thoughts on Slate’s approach? We’d love to hear from our readers about what features matter most in an electric vehicle.
Source: Slate Auto
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Consumer Corner
A Step-By-Step Guide to Changing Your Own Oil

- oil filter wrench
- drain pan
- funnel
- oil (refer to your vehicle’s manual for the recommended type and amount)
- oil filter
- wrench to remove the drain plug
- rags and gloves
- jack or jack stands
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