CRAIGS FLOAT HIRE

Consequently, the waiting times had surged to two years for the i20 N and over a year for the i30 N.

Approximately half of the six-month waiting period is attributed to transport, given that the i20 N is manufactured in Turkey and the larger i30 N hatch is sourced from the Czech Republic.

With upcoming facelifted versions of both models set to be unveiled in the coming months, it remains unclear whether customers will receive the current or updated versions.

Hyundai has indicated that the majority of outstanding orders, comprising around 240 i20s and 380 i30s, are already in transit. While specifc reveal dates are yet to be confrmed, it’s likely that the updated versions will arrive in the frst half of the next year.

Previously, there were indications that the facelifted i30 N hatch would be revealed next month and released locally alongside the updated i30 Sedan N next quarter. However, the release of the fagship four-door model has been postponed to early 2024.

Current pricing for the i20 starts from $34,990 plus on-road costs, and for the i30 N, it starts from $46,200 plus on-road costs. However, potential customers should be prepared for possible price adjustments if their orders are not fulflled before the release of the facelifted models, as Hyundai typically doesn’t price-protect existing orders.

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator Dual-Cab Ute Showcased at Detroit Motor Show with Comprehensive Updates

The rejuvenated 2024 Jeep Gladiator dualcab ute has made its inaugural appearance at the Detroit motor show, incorporating numerous enhancements witnessed in the recently revamped Jeep Wrangler.

The makeover encompasses restyled features such as a compact seven-slot grille, redesigned indicators, updated bumpers, fresh tail-lights, and seven modern wheel designs adaptable to 32- and 33inch tyres. Jeep has also seamlessly integrated the previous truck’s antenna into the front windscreen, providing a sleek appearance.

Under the hood, the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel, prevalent in overseas markets, has been replaced. Jeep now exclusively offers the larger 3.6-litre naturally-aspirated Pentastar V6, generating an impressive 213kW and 353Nm of torque. In the US, the petrol V6 is paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. A 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain, akin to the Wrangler, is expected in the future.

The updated Gladiator now features three underbody bash plates safeguarding the fuel tank, transfer case, and automatic transmission oil pan. The Mojave and Rubicon model grades include steel rock rails as a standard addition. Furthermore, two luxurious grades, Mojave X and Rubicon X, have been updates, two new dealer-ft American Expedition Vehicle (AEV) packs have been launched. These packs add a two-inch (50mm) suspension lift and larger 35-inch all-terrain tyres, with the Level II pack featuring even bigger 37-inch rubber, providing up to 16 inches (406mm) of ground clearance.

The interior of the introduced, offering Nappa leather poweradjustable seats, an integrated off-road camera, a full-time transfer case, and steel bumpers.

Safety measures have been amplifed, with all models now equipped with front and rear side curtain airbags. Structural modifcations have been implemented to enhance side impact crash performance. The Premium Sun-Rider retractable soft-top has been upgraded to offer superior sound insulation and increased durability.

In addition to these new Gladiator boasts a standard 12.3-inch touch-screen that operates the Stellantis group’s latest Androidbased UConnect 5 operating system, offering over-the-air updates and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Amazon Alexa is also available as a convenient onboard assistant.

The 2024 Gladiator is set to hit US dealerships before the year’s end, but details regarding pricing, full specifcations, and arrival times for Australia are yet to be disclosed.