Graduate Gifts

from Bay Area Houston Magazine April 2023

Sunshine Kitchen: More than a Bakery

By Don Armstrong

High school seniors are preparing to graduate and move on to college, so do you give them the unreliable family hand-me-down that you know is going to cost a few hundred a month just to keep running or bite the bullet and buy something new that has a warranty? Speaking from experience, we’d go “new.” Here are a couple of examples that you and your graduate should check out.

Hyundai Kona

Given Kona’s recent styling update, a 5-year and 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, and free maintenance for 3-years and 36,000 miles, that alone should at least get you to the dealer’s showroom, plus it gets 30-MPG.

Kona motivation is provided by a 2.0-liter four -cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque.

The continuously variable transmission comes with standard front-wheel drive or optional cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. allwheel drive. 16-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, height-adjustable driver's seat, 8-inch touchscreen, rear USB port, six-speaker audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all included in the base model.

Built with the same conveniences as a big SUV, Kona has a fold down rear seat that increases the size of its compact storage area into a mini wagon that swallows more than you can imagine.

Rear seat leg room is minimal but workable, and there’s room for four of your closest friends - that’s all that really matters, especially in your college years.

Pricing starts at $22,140.

MAZDA CX-30

The Mazda CX-30 combines a sleek style with smooth sheet metal undulations. The large, open-mouth grille is proportionate to its diminutive size. High wheel arches say “off-road,” and the sloping roofline give it a sporty, fastback look. Front and rear lighting complement both ends.

The interior is a winner too with an attractive, functional instrument cluster. An open pocket atop the dash holds the infotainment screen and gives it a little styling flare. Comfortable theatre-style seating places the rear guests a smidge above the driver and front passenger. Mazda’s accouterments are matched almost head-to-head with Kona.

Power is provided by 2.5-liter engine that delivers 191-horsepower via a 6-speed automatic transmission. This combo gets 29-MPG and should outpace our Hyundai comparison.

The Mazda CX-30 suspension is designed by the same folks who give us the world’s most popular sports car, the Miata MX-5 Miata, so expect superior handling and maneuverability, especially in the student parking lot.