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September 22, 2026 in Electric vs Hybrid Vehicles

Electric vs. Hybrid: Choosing the Kia Powertrain That Fits Your Life

Electric and hybrid vehicles arrive at efficiency from different directions. The 2026 Kia EV6 and EV9 dispense with gasoline entirely, while the 2026 Sorento Hybrid and 2027 Sportage Hybrid combine combustion engines with electric assistance. Between them sits the 2026 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid, capable of external charging but retaining a gasoline engine. For New Bern, NC, drivers, choosing between them is about range, charging access, and passenger space. EV6 and EV9 Remove the Engine Entirely The 2026 EV6 Light Long Range RWD uses an 84-kWh battery with 225 hp and 258 lbs. ft of torque, providing an EPA-estimated 319 miles of all-electric range and up to 2,700 lbs. of towing capacity when properly equipped. The larger 2026 EV9 brings the same basic philosophy to a 3-row SUV. EV9 Light Long Range RWD seats 7 and provides an EPA-estimated 305 miles of range, while Wind AWD combines dual-motor e-AWD with 379 hp, 443 lbs. ft of torque, and an EPA-estimated 283 miles. Both use Kia's 800V charging architecture for high-speed DC charging, an important consideration once journeys extend beyond the range available from home charging. Hybrids Keep the Familiar Fuel Tank The 2026 Sorento Hybrid combines a 1.6L Turbocharged engine with electric assistance to produce 227 hp and 258 lbs. ft of torque. The EX FWD returns an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined with an estimated 655-mile total driving range, while AWD models achieve 34 mpg combined. It also provides standard 3-row seating for 7. The smaller 2027 Sportage Hybrid produces 232 hp and 271 lbs. ft of torque, with FWD models rated at an EPA-estimated 40 mpg city, 42 mpg highway, and 41 mpg combined. AWD versions return 35 mpg combined and add available Terrain Mode for Snow, Mud, and Sand. Neither requires plugging in; regenerative braking and the hybrid system manage the electrical side as you drive. Sorento Plug-In Hybrid Occupies the Middle Ground The 2026 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid combines a 1.6L Turbocharged engine and plug-in hybrid system for 261 hp, with AWD and Terrain Mode included. Its larger battery can be charged from an external power source, allowing more routine driving to be completed using stored electrical energy while retaining gasoline power for longer journeys. It's an interesting compromise for a driver who has access to home charging but isn't prepared to make public charging part of every extended trip. Charging Access Changes the Ownership Experience This is where the decision becomes personal. With dependable home charging, an EV6 or EV9 can begin the day with a replenished battery and remove routine fuel stops from the equation. Public DC fast charging extends their usefulness on longer journeys, but it still requires some planning. Sorento Hybrid and Sportage Hybrid ownership remains closer to the familiar pattern: fill the tank and drive, with the electrical system operating in the background. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid asks for a little of both. Charging allows greater use of its electric capability, while the gasoline engine provides another source of propulsion when the battery's available charge is depleted. Match the Powertrain to the Journey For drivers who want to go fully electric without requiring a large SUV, the EV6 offers up to 319 miles of EPA-estimated range. The EV9 applies electric power to a 3-row format with seating for up to 7 and up to 305 miles of EPA-estimated range. Without dependable charging access, the Sorento Hybrid offers 3-row versatility and up to 37 mpg combined, while the Sportage Hybrid reaches an available 41 mpg combined in a smaller package. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid fills the space between those approaches, combining external charging with the flexibility of a gasoline engine. Compare Kia Electric and Hybrid Models in New Bern, NC The electric vehicles vs. hybrid vehicles question doesn't produce a universal answer because the vehicles are designed around different patterns of use. New Bern Auto Group gives drivers around New Bern, NC, the opportunity to compare Kia electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models, explore available new inventory, and see how each powertrain fits into your life. Schedule a test drive online to experience the differences from behind the wheel.

Aug 30, 2026 in Car Dealership New Bern

2026 Volvo XC90: Luxury, Safety, and Technology Explained

Drivers seeking a three-row SUV that balances refined comfort, advanced safety, and everyday practicality should explore the 2026 Volvo XC90. This luxury vehicle elevates the daily commute and easily hauls the entire family. It readily meets the needs of buyers visiting New Bern Auto Group in New Bern, NC. Contact our team today to learn more. What Powers the 2026 Volvo XC90 The 2026 Volvo XC90 offers two mild hybrid powertrain options. Both use a 48-volt system to assist the gas engine during acceleration and capture energy during braking. The B5 AWD delivers up to 247 horsepower and reaches 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. The B6 AWD produces 295 horsepower and achieves a 6.4-second zero-to-60 time. Both engines feature standard all-wheel drive, providing confident traction in varying road conditions. Volvo XC90 Features That Stand Out Volvo XC90 features impress across all three trim levels: Core, Plus, and Ultra. The Core trim provides a panoramic roof, Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving support, and Google© built-in. This system gives you direct center display access to Google Maps©, Google Assistant©, and Google Play©. Upgrading to the Plus trim adds a 360-degree camera and Park Assist. The Ultra trim includes a Harman Kardon© Premium Sound System, a head-up display, and ventilated nappa leather upholstery. Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto© are available, ensuring easy connectivity on every drive. Interior Space and Comfort Families choose this luxury SUV for its remarkable flexibility. The 2026 Volvo XC90 seats six or seven passengers across three rows. All seats recline individually to maximize passenger comfort. Seven-seat models feature an integrated booster cushion in the second row center, promoting proper seat belt fitment for growing children. Cargo space reaches an impressive 85.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. You can open the power-operated tailgate hands-free using a simple kicking motion under the rear bumper. Volvo Safety Technology You Can Count On Drivers recognize Volvo for its enduring safety commitment, and the XC90 upholds this tradition. The Volvo safety technology suite incorporates Pilot Assist, aiding steering, acceleration, and braking on well-marked roads. Matrix-design LED headlights integrate automatic high beams and cornering lights to enhance nighttime visibility. The iconic Thor's Hammer headlights look striking and actively improve road illumination. The mild hybrid system also creates smoother, more controlled driving dynamics. Exterior Design and Personalization The 2026 Volvo XC90 blends striking visuals with deep functionality. Its sculpted hood, slim headlights, and bold front grille project a commanding road presence. Buyers choose between a Bright theme with chrome accents or the new Dark theme highlighting high-gloss black accents. Seven exterior colors are available, including Crystal White, Onyx Black, and Mulberry Red. Wheel options span from 20" to 22" alloy designs with diamond-cut finishes, offering extensive personalization. Explore the 2026 Volvo XC90 in New Bern, NC The 2026 Volvo XC90 combines outstanding features, sophisticated design, and proven Volvo safety technology into one complete package. New Bern Auto Group stands ready to help you experience this luxury SUV firsthand. Contact our dealership in New Bern, NC, to explore our inventory, configure your XC90, or schedule a test drive today.

Green Chevrolet SUV parked outdoors near trees.

Jul 29, 2026 in Car Dealership New Bern

Finding the Best Family SUVs 2026 Has to Offer

Finding a vehicle that effortlessly handles daily commutes and weekend road trips can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, shopping for a new vehicle at New Bern Auto Group gives you excellent Chevrolet SUV options to consider. A growing family might need a full-size hauler, while others prefer a compact, affordable daily driver. The best family SUVs 2026 brings to the table span a wide range of sizes and features, making finding the right match easier than ever. Compact SUVs for Everyday Drivers The 2026 Chevy Trax and Trailblazer are smart, budget-friendly choices. Both models offer modern interiors, user-friendly touchscreens with Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto©, and ample cargo space for errands and weekend trips. They park easily and drive efficiently, suiting smaller families perfectly. The Versatile Middle Ground The 2026 Equinox hits the sweet spot between size and capability. It provides more interior room than the Trax or Trailblazer while remaining easy to maneuver around town. Drivers seeking the safest family SUVs appreciate the standard safety and driver assistance features. The Equinox remains a practical pick for families wanting comfort in a mid-size package. Three-Row SUVs for Larger Families When your family needs more room, the 2026 Traverse steps up. Powered by a responsive 2.5L turbocharged engine, this mid-size three-row SUV seats up to eight passengers and delivers a comfortable ride for longer trips. Growing families appreciate the flexible seating and generous cargo capacity, along with technology features that make road trips enjoyable. Full-Size Confidence Families wanting maximum space choose the 2026 Tahoe and 2026 Suburban. These full-size three-row SUVs command the road, offer strong towing capability, and provide massive passenger capacity. As some of the safest family SUVs, they come equipped with advanced safety technologies. The Suburban gives you one of the most spacious interiors in any family vehicle today. Electric Options for the Forward-Thinking Family Chevy electric SUVs deserve a serious look for drivers wanting to reduce fuel stops. The 2026 Equinox EV offers a modern electric experience, delivering an EPA-estimated range of up to 319 miles with front-wheel drive and 307 miles with all-wheel drive. The 2026 Blazer EV adds a sportier look and increased performance, offering an EPA-estimated range of 312 miles on front-wheel-drive models, up to 283 miles on all-wheel-drive versions, and 302 miles on the SS trim. Both EVs feature well-designed cabins, large center displays up to 17.7", and available driver assistance technology. Visit New Bern Auto Group to Explore the Lineup The best family SUVs 2026 has available are waiting for you at New Bern Auto Group. From the efficient Trax to the spacious Suburban, Chevrolet designs an SUV for the way your family lives. If you prioritize safety, seating, or technology, the right family vehicle is here. Stop by our dealership or browse our online inventory to find the SUV that perfectly fits your lifestyle.

Jun 17, 2026 in Car Dealership New Bern

Gas, Hybrid, or EV: Which Efficient Vehicle Fits Your Drive?

If you've been shopping for a new vehicle lately, you've probably noticed that the options look a little different than they did even 5 years ago. Advances in automotive technology have made electric vehicles more affordable, making the gas vs hybrid vs EV decision one that more drivers are considering, and for good reason. With fuel costs, environmental concerns, and technology all shifting, choosing the right powertrain is more important than ever. What Makes a Gas-Powered Vehicle Still Worth Considering? When it comes to the gas vs hybrid vs EV decision, a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle still makes a lot of sense for many drivers. Refueling is fast; gas stations are everywhere, and the upfront cost is typically lower than hybrids or EVs. If you frequently drive long distances or travel through rural areas where charging infrastructure is limited, a gas-powered vehicle offers flexibility that's hard to replace. Maintenance networks are also well-established, meaning repairs and service are widely available. How Hybrids Bridge the Gap A hybrid vehicle combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to deliver better fuel efficiency without making you plug in. This can appeal to drivers who want to save on gas but aren't ready to commit to a fully electric lifestyle. Most hybrids seamlessly switch between power sources depending on driving conditions, which is especially helpful in stop-and-go city traffic. If you split your time between local errands and longer highway trips, a hybrid can offer savings without major adjustments to your routine. What EVs Bring to the Table Electric vehicles have come a long way, and for the right driver, they offer a satisfying ownership experience. With no trips to the gas station, lower per-mile energy costs, and fewer moving parts to maintain, EVs can simplify daily driving in a lot of ways. However, driving an EV does require planning. Home charging equipment is a very helpful addition, and longer road trips need some planning around charging stops. Range has improved significantly across many modern EVs, but it remains an important factor to evaluate based on your specific driving habits. Matching the Right Powertrain to Your Lifestyle There's no single right answer in the gas vs hybrid vs EV discussion because every driver's needs are different. A commuter with a short daily drive and access to home charging may find an EV to be an ideal fit. A driver who hauls equipment, tows regularly, or frequently travels long distances might prefer the proven capability of a gasoline engine. Someone looking for everyday efficiency without major lifestyle changes might find that a hybrid is the right call. The best choice is the one that fits your actual routine, not just what sounds good on paper. You need to think about your average daily mileage, your access to charging, how often you travel beyond your home region, and what your budget looks like for both purchase and long-term ownership costs. These answers will point you toward the right vehicle. Find Your Fit Among New Bern Auto Options Choosing between a gas, hybrid, or electric vehicle doesn't have to be overwhelming. The experts at New Bern Auto Group will walk you through your options and help you find a vehicle that matches your lifestyle, budget, and driving habits. Visit us to e xplore current inventory and connect with someone who can help you out.

May 26, 2026 in Volvo Dealership New Bern

Fuel-Efficient 2026 Volvo Choices for New Bern Drivers

When it comes to choosing a new vehicle, fuel efficiency is one of the first things most drivers consider, especially now. For New Bern, North Carolina drivers exploring the most fuel-efficient Volvo they can find, the good news is that Volvo's current 2026 lineup offers more electrified options than ever before. Whether you're drawn to a fully electric SUV or a plug-in hybrid that bridges both worlds, there's something in the 2026 Volvo range designed to fit how you drive every day. Fully Electric Volvo Models Worth Considering The Volvo EX30 is the most accessible entry point into the fully electric lineup. This compact SUV that punches well above its size with a whopping 422 hp, while still giving you incredible efficiency with a 261-mile range. With a charge time of 28 minutes to bring you from 10 to 80%, the EX30 is ideal for daily commutes. The EX40 brings more interior space than the subcompact EX30. Though they both seat 5, the EX40 offers more legroom and 57.5 cu. ft. of cargo space vs. the EX30’s 27.8 cu. ft. The EX40 offers a well-rounded feature set for drivers who want a versatile, zero-emissions daily driver. For those who need maximum space without a drop of gasoline, the EX90 fully electric is Volvo's flagship electric SUV. It seats up to 7 passengers and represents Volvo's most advanced technology in a single vehicle. Plug-In Hybrid Options for Flexible Driving Not everyone is ready to go fully electric, and that's perfectly reasonable. Volvo's plug-in hybrid models offer the best of both worlds—electric driving for shorter trips and a gasoline engine available when you need more range. For New Bern drivers who take occasional longer highway trips, this flexibility is a genuine advantage. The XC60 plug-in hybrid fits neatly into the midsize SUV category. It's a popular choice for families who want practicality, comfort, and reduced fuel costs without any range anxiety. It offers a 35-mile all-electric range and 63 MPGe, while still showing off an exciting 455 hp. The XC90 plug-in hybrid adds 3-row seating to the equation. For families of up to 7, this configuration covers your needs while giving you an impressive 32-mile all-electric range and 58 MPGe—impressive for a vehicle of this size. Both plug-in hybrid models reward drivers who can charge regularly at home or at public stations. Mild Hybrid Models for Everyday Efficiency If you're not quite ready for a plug-in or fully electric vehicle, Volvo's mild hybrid models still offer meaningful efficiency improvements over traditional gasoline engines. These systems use a small battery to assist the engine during acceleration and energy recovery during braking, which helps reduce fuel consumption in everyday driving. Giving you 26 MPG combined, the XC40 mild hybrid compact SUV is practical, and well-equipped without asking a higher upfront cost. The XC60 mild hybrid adds more interior room and capability for those who need a bit more from their daily vehicle. For drivers who appreciate a unique body style, the V60 Cross Country is an elevated wagon with all-wheel drive and a slightly raised ride height, making it a refined and practical choice that stands out from the typical SUV crowd. How to Choose the Right Volvo for Your Lifestyle Choosing among the 2026 Volvo fuel-efficient vehicles really comes down to your daily routine and long-term goals. If you have access to home charging and primarily drive shorter distances, a fully electric model like the EX30 or EX40 could eliminate fuel costs almost entirely. If your driving patterns vary and you want more flexibility, a plug-in hybrid like the XC60 or XC90 offers a sensible middle ground. For drivers who prefer simplicity and still want better efficiency than a traditional gasoline vehicle, the mild hybrid XC40 or XC60 delivers without requiring any changes to how you fuel your car today. What 2026 fuel-efficient vehicles to choose for New Bern drivers ultimately depends on your commute length, budget, and how much you'd like to rely on electricity. Find Your 2026 Volvo in New Bern, NC Whether you're drawn to a fully electric SUV, a plug-in hybrid, or a mild hybrid model, the 2026 Volvo fuel-efficient vehicles lineup has something for every type of driver. Each model brings Volvo's well-regarded approach to safety, comfort, and sustainable design to the table. If you're ready to explore your options or have questions about which model fits your life, visit us at New Bern Auto Group at newbernautogroup.com. Drivers throughout New Bern, NC can browse inventory, view current offers, and take the next step toward a smarter, more efficient vehicle today.

grey 2026 volvo xc60 suv left angle view

Apr 08, 2026 in Volvo Dealership New Bern

Explore the 2026 Volvo XC60: Luxury and Safety in One Elegant Package

The 2026 Volvo XC60 is a midsize luxury SUV available at New Bern Auto Group in New Bern, NC. This vehicle features Scandinavian design, safety technology, and hybrid powertrain options. Drivers can choose between different configurations to meet their specific transportation needs. A Look at the 2026 Volvo XC60 Performance The 2026 Volvo XC60 provides 2 powertrain options for consumers. The B5 mild hybrid uses a 2.0 L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This system uses a 48-volt battery to assist with fuel efficiency during acceleration. The T8 plug-in hybrid, also known as the Recharge, combines a 2.0 L engine with an electric motor to produce 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. This version offers an estimated 35 miles of all-electric range for short trips. Both models use an 8-speed automatic transmission and come with all-wheel drive as a standard feature. Scandinavian Design and Interior Functionality The exterior of the 2026 Volvo XC60 includes a sculpted body and LED headlights with the Thor's Hammer design. Customers can select wheel sizes ranging from 18" to 21", depending on the chosen trim level. The Black Edition styling package is available, and it includes high-gloss black finishes on the grille and badging. The interior provides a maximum cargo capacity of 63.3 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. Available interior materials include tailored wool blend or ventilated Nappa leather. A panoramic roof is a standard feature that allows natural light into the cabin. Advanced Technology and Safety Features The 2026 Volvo XC60 includes several driver assistance systems to improve safety. Pilot Assist helps maintain a set speed and distance from other vehicles, while the 360-degree camera provides a bird's-eye view for parking. The infotainment system features a 9" center touchscreen with Google® built-in services. This system includes navigation through Google Maps®, and it supports smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®. A 12.3" digital driver display provides essential vehicle information directly behind the steering wheel. 2026 Volvo XC60 Trim Levels This SUV is available in 3 primary trim levels, which are the Core, Plus, and Ultra. The Core trim serves as the base model and includes essential safety and comfort features. The Plus trim adds a 360-degree camera and 19" wheels to the vehicle. The Ultra trim is the highest level, and it provides a head-up display, ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system. Each trim is designed to offer a different balance of luxury and utility. Visit New Bern Auto Group The 2026 Volvo XC60 offers a combination of hybrid performance and safety technology. This SUV is a practical choice for individuals and families in New Bern, NC. Interested parties can view the current inventory at New Bern Auto Group to compare the available trim levels and features. Visit the dealership to see the 2026 Volvo XC60 in person.