Latest news with #affordableLuxury
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
The Hybrid Sedan With Premium Perks That Makes Going Green a Power Move—Not a Pricey Compromise
So, you're hunting for a hybrid that feels like a Lexus but doesn't come with the luxury price tag. Tricky? Definitely. But not impossible—especially if you know what you're really shopping for. First, a quick reality check: 'premium' and 'luxury' aren't interchangeable in car-speak. And if you're aiming for something that costs half of what a Lexus does, you'll need to be flexible on things like materials and design flourishes—even Lexus is considered the affordable luxury option, after all. The good news? Automakers are seriously stepping up. Brands like Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia are packing their most budget-friendly hybrids with upscale features that would've been reserved for high-end trims just a few years ago. And yes, there's one hybrid sedan in particular that delivers all that elevated feel without draining your wallet. In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from the Hyundai website and other authoritative sources, including the EPA and iSeeCars. Let's be clear—you're not going to find a one-to-one swap for a luxury hybrid like a Lexus at half the price. But that doesn't mean you can't get something that feels high-end without draining your savings. Brands like Toyota and Hyundai have mastered the art of making entry-level models look and drive like something way more expensive. Case in point: the 2025 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, which brings serious style, a refined interior, and zero sticker shock. To put it into perspective, the average price of a Lexus hybrid rings in at a hefty $70,122. If you're aiming for half that, you're working with about $35,061—and the Sonata Hybrid fits beautifully into that budget, with room to spare. Talking premium features on a $35,061 budget might sound like a stretch, but in today's market, that money goes further than you'd think. Thanks to brands like Hyundai, getting a car that rivals luxury without the luxury price is actually within reach. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid keeps it refreshingly simple with just two trims: the SEL Hybrid and the Limited Hybrid. The SEL kicks things off at $31,250, while the decked-out Limited creeps past budget at $37,700—but close enough to still be a serious contender. Before diving into all the bells and whistles, let's talk about what's going on under the hood. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid runs on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine that puts out a respectable 192 horsepower. It's paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission and sticks to front-wheel drive across the board. Sure, it's not built to outpace a luxury sports sedan—but here's the twist: what it lacks in flash, it makes up for in fuel-sipping efficiency that most luxury cars can't touch. The Sonata Hybrid is a fuel-sipping champ—but funnily enough, it's not Hyundai's most efficient hybrid; that title belongs to the Elantra Hybrid. Still, this midsize sedan gives its competitors serious anxiety with its standout fuel economy and impressive range. In the 2025 model, you're looking at 44 mpg city, 51 mpg highway, and a combined 47 mpg. But the real kicker? It can cover an astonishing 620 miles on a single tank—talk about going the distance without constant pit stops. Alright, maybe there's a tiny catch—but it's not a dealbreaker. We said the average Lexus hybrid costs around $70,122, which puts your half-price budget at about $35,061. Now, the Sonata Hybrid Limited trim, which is loaded with premium features, costs a little more at $37,700. That's only $2,639 more—and honestly, budgets are meant to have some wiggle room. When you're shopping for a car, it's smart to set aside a little extra cash so you don't miss out on the perfect ride just because of a small amount. Before diving into all the bells and whistles, it's worth saying that the base Sonata Hybrid is no slouch. It holds its own with solid standard features, but if we're talking about the trim that really delivers premium vibes without blowing the budget, the 2025 Sonata Hybrid Limited is the clear winner. Lexus has carved out a unique identity in the luxury space with interiors focusing less on flash and more on feel. 'Comfort' is probably the best way to summarize the experience—they go for calm, clean, and quietly upscale, not loud luxury. Interestingly, Hyundai seems to have taken notes. The Sonata Hybrid channels that same minimalist, well-organized design language that feels intentional and thoughtful. And because it's a midsize sedan, you also get the bonus of generous passenger space—something that definitely adds to the premium feel without adding extra dollars. On the outside, both trims come dressed to impress with 17-inch eco-spoke alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights and taillights, gloss black rocker panels, and a bold black mesh grille. Since we've already given some love to the base trim, it's only fair to break down what the SEL Hybrid brings to the table. Inside the SEL, you'll find premium cloth seats, an eight-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, and a six-way adjustable passenger seat—both heated up front for added comfort. Step up to the Limited, though, and things get noticeably fancier with features like a panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror, ventilated leather front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel that really leans into the luxe experience. Tech is where the Sonata Hybrid really flexes its premium side—and just like Lexus, Hyundai nails that clean, uncluttered cabin vibe. Everything feels intentional, with smart features worked in seamlessly, so nothing feels overdone or overwhelming. Depending on the trim, you'll get a crisp 12.3-inch HD touchscreen, while the Limited trim upgrades to a full HD navigation system. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth come standard, and the base trim rocks a six-speaker setup—though the Limited steps it up with a rich, twelve-speaker Bose Premium Surround System. Both trims come with a wireless charging pad up front and rear USB ports to keep everyone plugged in. And to round things out, the Sonata Hybrid also packs in a full suite of driver-assistance tech that makes daily driving safer and just a little more effortless. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist w/ Pedestrian/Cyclist/Junction Turning Detection (FCA-JT) Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) Lane Following Assist (LFA) Driver Attention Warning (DAW) Smart Cruise Control (SCC) w/ Stop And Go Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) Safe Exit Warning (SEW) High Beam Assist (HBA) And there you have it—the full rundown of the 2025 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. For what it costs, it's tough to argue against how thoughtfully it's built and how much it offers. No one's saying it outshines a Lexus Hybrid across the board, but in terms of smart design and everyday comfort, it holds its own. If there's one Lexus that comes closest in spirit, it's the 2025 ES Hybrid. With a starting price of $44,615 and climbing to $50,910, it's not wildly out of reach—but it does cost quite a bit more than the Sonata Hybrid. Still, it's worth remembering that these two live in different segments. Comparing them is a bit like lining up apples and oranges—they have different flavors, but both deliver that premium, hybrid appeal in their own way. When you stack up the numbers, choosing the 2025 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid over the Lexus ES Hybrid could save you around $20,000. That's no small amount, especially if you're working on a tighter budget and want to keep those monthly payments in check. Both sedans bring premium features to the table, but the Sonata Hybrid surprises in the best way. We expect luxury cars to deliver refined design and high-end tech, but getting that same experience from a non-luxury hybrid priced between $30K and $37K? That's not so common. Yet somehow, Hyundai pulled it off. If you're shopping for a hybrid sedan that looks sharp, drives smoothly, and doesn't skimp on comfort or features, the 2025 Sonata Hybrid should absolutely be on your radar.
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Yahoo
5 US Cities With the Most Affordable 5-Star Hotels in 2025
Staying at a five-star hotel is a luxurious experience. You get to enjoy top-of-the-line amenities ranging from high-quality sheets to access to high-end, on-site spas, and little touches throughout your stay that elevate your whole trip. The only downside is the typically high price you'll pay to get that hotel key. Explore More: Read Next: However, some U.S. cities have five-star hotels with nightly rates that won't leave you with too much sticker shock. A new report found the cities with the most affordable five-star hotels, and in all of these locations, the average rate is under $400 a night. Here's a look at the U.S. cities where you can find the most affordable five-star hotels this year. Average 5-star hotel rate: $287 a night Find Out: Average 5-star hotel rate: $340 a night Average 5-star hotel rate: $341 a night Average 5-star hotel rate: $361 a night Average 5-star hotel rate: $386 a night More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard How Much Money Is Needed To Be Considered Middle Class in Your State? How Far $750K Plus Social Security Goes in Retirement in Every US Region This article originally appeared on 5 US Cities With the Most Affordable 5-Star Hotels in 2025
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Italian Brand Twinset Changes Hands
TWINSET SALE: Borletti Group and Quadrivio & Pambianco, through the private equity vehicle Made in Italy Fund II, have acquired 100 percent of Twinset from The Carlyle Group. The Italian womenswear brand, positioned in the affordable luxury market range, in 2024 reported revenues of more than 200 million euros, and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of more than 30 million euros. More from WWD Princess Beatrice's Royal Ascot Looks Through the Years: Favoring Florals in Zimmermann, Going Classic in Black-and-white Jonathan Simkhai and More Mia Farrow, Andrew Scott and Jean Smart Celebrate the Tony Awards Over Burgers and Fries at the Carlyle Hotel Moschino, Alberta Ferretti Parent Aeffe Reports Q1 Revenue Decline, Looks to Recovery The affordable luxury segment is growing, believes Maurizio Borletti, founding partner of Borletti Group, and Twinset has 'solid fundamentals and still untapped potential.' In May, Borletti Group bought a minority stake in denim, sportswear and accessories brand True Religion. It has more than two decades of experience investing in premium and lifestyle brands ranging from Printemps and Rinascente to MooRER and Zimmermann. Made in Italy Fund II investments have ranged from sneaker brand Autry and Filippo De Laurentiis, specialized in high-end knitwear, to French brand Sessùn. Alessandro Varisco, chief executive officer of Twinset, touted the experience of the two new owners, saying that 'this is a great opportunity for the company, which will allow to further strengthen its identity and become an even more international brand.' Highlighting Twinset's strong identity and awareness, Alessandro Binello, group CEO of Quadrivio Group and managing partner of the Made in Italy Fund II, said the affordable luxury segment 'is today an essential target' for private equity funds 'and we aim to continue to invest in it, confident in its great potential and the return for our investors.' The Carlyle Group acquired 70 percent of Twinset in 2012, upping its stake to 90 percent in 2015 and taking full control in 2017 after Simona Barbieri, who founded the company in 1990 in the Italian town of Carpi — a knitwear hub — with business partner Tiziano Sgarbi, left the company for good. Varisco joined in 2015 from Moschino. Twinset was founded as a knitwear specialist, and has expanded into total look collections also holding fashion shows in Milan. Over the past few years it has reached out to a younger generation, tapping the likes of Emily Ratajkowski, Georgia May Jagger and Suki Waterhouse for its communication and debuting a clothing rental program in 2019. Best of WWD Kate Middleton's Looks at Trooping the Colour Through the Years [PHOTOS] Young Brooke Shields' Style Evolution, Archive Photos: From Runway Modeling & Red Carpets to Meeting Princess Diana The Most Memorable French Open Tennis Outfits With Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka & More [PHOTOS]
The Sun
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Billie Faiers slammed for being ‘out of touch' as she shows off expensive hot tub
BILLIE Faiers has been branded "out of touch" after showing off an expensive hot tub she got for free - and insisting it is "affordable". The reality star was slammed by fans as she plugged the freebie on Instagram whilst also having a swimming pool in the background. 7 7 7 The mum shared a clip of her and her kids enjoying the hot tub in their Essex mansion. It was gifted by Lazy Spa UK in return for Billie to promote the product on her socials. The former Towie star slipped into a black one piece swimsuit which she styled with a pair of glasses as she filmed herself enjoying the bubbles. The clip then showed son Arthur and youngest daughter Margot splashing around and playing in the water. She captioned the post: 'Happy Saturday, AD We love weekends at home when the suns out and are so glad we got the San Francisco hot tub from @layzspauk. 'It's been the perfect addition to our garden as it's perfect for keeping the kids entertained but also a great way for Greg and I to relax - the massage jets are brilliant and the seats are really comfy, perfect affordable luxury.' The video sparked outrage from some followers who claimed the star promoted a product that does not have an 'affordable' price tag at £1,500. One user said: 'Most people can't afford to heat their hot tubs any more. 'Pool not good enough for kids,' chimed another. 'Affordable. Promoting a free gift they got with their big swimming pool right next to it!' added a third. Sam Faiers horrified at son Edward's 'damage' to home as she's heard yelling for sister Billie Faiers 'They don't realise how lucky they are! Why don't they gift it for free not like they need it. Wish it was affordable,' agreed a fourth. It comes after Billie's husband Greg Shepard acquired even more wealth after treating himself to some property purchases, buying four in a row. He snapped up a row of houses at auction and revealed his new purchase on social media back in February. He shared a video proudly pointing out the four neighbouring homes as he revealed he's bought two four bedroom and two three bedroom homes. Posting via business account Picture Residential, Greg showed off the new homes as he walked through and discussed the work and big plans for the row of properties. The account shared the clip with the caption: "Here we have our latest purchase over in Croydon. "4 properties, x2 4 beds and x2 3 beds. "As you can see these properties are in need of complete renovation. We will be keeping the existing shell of all 4 properties and fully refurbishing the internals, front and back gardens. "These homes will be totally un-recognisable when completed providing new, clean and habitable spaces. 3 properties will be sold and the 4th will be added to our portfolio." 7 7 7
Reuters
13-06-2025
- Business
- Reuters
Labubu-maker Pop Mart diversifies into jewellery with new concept store
SHANGHAI, June 13 (Reuters) - "Blind box" toymaker Pop Mart, which has seen frenzied sales worldwide for products related to its ugly-cute Labubu character, opened its first jewellery store in Shanghai on Friday. The jewellery concept store, called Popop, sells accessories adorned with Pop Mart's top-selling characters, including Labubu, Molly and Skullpanda. While Chinese consumption remains subdued in the face of a prolonged property downturn and sluggish economy, Pop Mart's affordable and adorable toys have remained in high demand both at home and abroad, driving its share price up more than 200% so far this year. Investor Zhang Ming, 34, who owns Pop Mart stocks worth 100 million yuan ($13.92 million), flew from his base in the southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing for the opening to check out the new store type and decide whether to increase his shareholding in the company. "I believe that the pricing and target audience for this brand are particularly well-suited, and I am confident that Pop Mart could potentially become China's version of Disney," Zhang said, predicting that the company's market cap could double from its current $45.65 billion valuation. Along with some Disney characters and others related to anime, comics and popular video games, Pop Mart's characters are seen as fulfilling what has been called "emotional consumption", which sees young consumers spend on affordable luxuries that bring joy into their lives. Fang Ke, 35, who has a birthday coming up this month decided to treat herself to a 699 yuan Labubu bracelet at the opening. "I've loved Pop Mart for a long time; it's good-looking, brightly coloured, and also has a visual impact," she said. "My daughter likes it too." At Popop, prices start at around 350 yuan for charms or a simple silver ring, and go as high as 2699 yuan for necklaces adorned with metallic models of the characters. Most pieces are priced at under 1,000 yuan. At a traditional Pop Mart store, the "blind box" toys that the chain is best known for generally sell for 69 yuan and up, but consumers have shown a willingness to shell out much more for limited editions. Earlier this week, a Beijing auction house sold a human-sized Labubu figure for 1.08 million yuan, setting a new record and marking the toy's switch from craze to collectible. ($1 = 7.1821 Chinese yuan renminbi)
