McKynzie Steward

McKynzie Steward is an Austin-based editor at Kelley Blue Book who creates compelling stories aimed at helping people find the right car for their needs. She has an extensive background in technical writing, which includes a master's degree in technical communication. McKynzie is passionate about understanding her audience, and expert at translating complex, technical information about cars into easily understandable content. Outside of her professional duties, she enjoys spending time with her family, doing word puzzles, and visiting new coffee shops.

An inside look at the Rivian plant in Illinois.

General

Rivian Boosts Planned Output at Georgia Plant to 300,000 Vehicles

McKynzie Steward - May 12, 2026

Rivian has announced increased planned output at its Georgia plant by 50% to 300,000 vehicles, with production slated to start in late 2028.

2Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT models lined up in various colors.

General

Experiencing My First Off-road Autocross in the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5

McKynzie Steward - May 08, 2026

A KBB editor drives a 2026 Ioniq 5 XRT in her first-ever off-road autocross course. Here’s what she learned about pushing it to the limit.

An inside look inside Hyundai's Georgia metaplant.

General

Inside Hyundai’s Metaplant: What It Takes to Power the Future

McKynzie Steward - May 05, 2026

We got a special, inside look at Hyundai’s 2,900-acre metaplant in Georgia. Here are the lessons we learned.

A black 2027 Mercedes-Benz EQS European model from a front quarter angle view.

General

2027 Mercedes‑Benz EQS Brings Updated Range and Tech

McKynzie Steward - April 14, 2026

Mercedes-Benz’s flagship sedan is receiving new technology and performance updates for the 2027 model year.

A red 2026 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing from a front view.

General

Final Call: Cadillac CT4 Orders Are Reportedly Closing Soon

McKynzie Steward - April 10, 2026

Cadillac’s CT4 lineup will reportedly close for orders by the week of April 20th. This includes the enthusiast-favorite Blackwing variant.

A black 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy from a front quarter angle view.

General

Hyundai Resumes Palisade Sales After Resolving Seat Safety Issue

McKynzie Steward - April 10, 2026

Hyundai has released a software update for the 2026 Calligraphy and Limited Palisade models to address a power seat recall.

An 2026 Ford Bronco Badlands with the Wildtrak package from a front quarter angle view.

General

Wildtrak Option Returns Among Other Ford Bronco Lineup Updates

McKynzie Steward - April 08, 2026

Ford releases mid-year updates for the 2026 Bronco lineup, which includes the return of the Wildtrak as an equipment package.

A coral 2026 Lexus RX350 from a front quarter angle view.

General

Lexus Recalls Over 140,000 Vehicles Due to Faulty Rearview Cameras

McKynzie Steward - April 06, 2026

Lexis has recalled 144,200 vehicles across various models and years due to a rearview camera issue caused by an internal defect.

A blue 2027 Ford Expedition with the 30th Anniversary Appearance Package from a front quarter angle view.

General

2027 Ford Expedition Gets 30th Anniversary Package

McKynzie Steward - April 03, 2026

Ford reveals a 30th anniversary appearance package for the 2027 Expedition, featuring a new paint color, updated interior accents, and anniversary badging.