Tuesday, March 13, 2018

2019 GMC Sierra Coming This Fall


The next generation, completely redesigned 2019 GMC Sierra, larger than the previous truck in virtually every dimension, is powered by a  6.2L V-8 with a new 10-speed automatic transmission and the new 5.3L V-8 with an 8-speed automatic transmission and will be joined by an all-new 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel engine. Standard on SLT and Denali, the MultiPro Tailgate features six unique functions and positions, offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation mode and easier access to items in the box. A Multi-Color Head-Up Display projects key, customizable vehicle data on the windshield in a 3x7-inch display to help drivers keep their eyes on the road. A Rear Camera Mirror offers an optimized view via an available dual-function interior mirror that expands vision to overcome common visual obstructions like occupants or cargo. The 2019 GMC Sierra Denali and SLT go on sale this Fall.

2019 Toyota RAV4 Coming Soon


The all-new, fifth-generation 2019 Toyota RAV4 will make its world debut on March 28 at the New York International Auto Show.

2018 Audi RS 5 coupe Starts at $70,875


The all-new 2018 Audi RS 5 coupe, powered by a 444 horsepower 2.9-liter V6 TFSI® biturbo engine mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, eight tenths of a second faster than the previous generation RS 5, and achieve a top track speed of 155 mph, or increased to 174 mph with the optional Dynamic plus package. Comfort, auto, dynamic and individual drive modes allow the driver to adjust the quattro sport differential, dynamic steering, and dynamic ride control (if equipped), in addition to being able to change gear shift points, steering and throttle response. The all-new 2018 Audi RS 5 coupe starts at $70,875 (including $975 destination charge).

Friday, March 9, 2018

2018 BMW X2 Starts At $39,395


The 2018 BMW X2 powered by a 228 horsepower 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission starts at $39,395 (including $995 Destination and Handling).

2019 BMW X4 M40i M Performance Starts At $61,445 This Summer


The 2019 BMW X4 M40i M Performance, in its second generation, with a 355 horsepower inline six-cylinder engine, will be available in summer 2018 in U.S. showrooms for a MSRP of $61,445 (including $995 Destination and Handling).

2019 Ram 1500 Starts At $33,340


The all-new 2019 Ram 1500 pickup truck will have a starting MSRP of $33,340 (including $1,645 destination fee) for the Tradesman Quad Cab 4x2 to $59,035 for the Limited Crew Cab 4x4 V-8 with standard 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen. Tradesman, Big Horn and Rebel are powered by the standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 eTorque mild hybrid powertrain and the optional 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 with 8-speed automatic transmission is $1,195, while the eTorque-equipped HEMI is $1,995. Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Limited pricing reflects the standard 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, while eTorque-equipped HEMI is an additional $800.

2019 Jaguar I-PACE Starts At $69,500


The 2019 Jaguar I-PACE mid-size premium battery electric vehicle with a 90kWh battery that delivers an estimated range of up to 240 miles and 0-60mph acceleration in 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 124mph, is priced from $69,500 before federal and local government incentives.

Thursday, February 22, 2018

2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio


The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is powered by a 505 horsepower all-aluminum, direction-injection 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission all-wheel-drive system taking it from 0-60 mph in an estimated 3.9 seconds to a top speed of 176 mph. Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifogliostarts at $81,590 (including $1,595 destination charge).

Subaru Ascent Starts At $32,970 This Summer


The all-new Subaru Ascent, on a 113.8-in. wheelbase and offering three rows of seating, with available bench or captain’s chairs in the second row, is powered by an all-new 260 horsepower twin-scroll turbocharged 2.4-liter BOXER engine mated to a new version of Subaru’s high-torque Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission) and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The 2019 Ascent comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology that includes Automatic Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, and new, available EyeSight Assist Monitor which provides a heads-up display of EyeSight system warnings and system status data on the windshield. Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also available. The Ascent is priced from $32,970 (including destination and delivery charges) and arrives at retailers this Summer.

Volvo V60 Wagon


The new Volvo V60, five-door mid-size wagon, will be powered by a 250 horsepower T5 FWD or a 316 horsepower T6 AWD in the U.S. The City Safety with Autobrake technology uses automatic braking and detection systems to assist the driver in avoiding potential collisions and the Pilot Assist system supports the driver with steering, acceleration and braking on well-marked roads up to 80 MPH. – has been upgraded with improved cornering performance. The V60 also includes Run-off Road Mitigation, Oncoming Lane Mitigation and other steering assistance systems.

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Goes On Sale This Summer


The all-new fourth generation 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, 2.8 inches longer than the previous model, will be powered by a 185 horsepower 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder GDI engine, a 232 horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or a 200 horsepower 2.2-liter CRDi turbodiesel engine, all mated to a brand new eight-speed automatic transmission. The five-passenger Santa Fe Sport will now be called the Hyundai Santa Fe and the current long wheelbase three-row, seven-passenger Santa Fe will be renamed Santa Fe XL for the 2019 model year. The biggest change sees the rear shock moved upright from an angled position to improve the ride and handling. They go on sale in the U.S. in the summer of 2018. An all-new three-row, eight-passenger SUV is currently under development with an all-new name.

Monday, February 12, 2018

2018 Fiat 500 All Turbo Line-Up Arrives In 2nd Quarter



The 2018 Fiat 500 lineup goes all-turbo with Pop and Lounge models powered by the standard 135 horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine which is 34 more standard horsepower than last year’s model and paired with a five-speed manual transmission as standard with an available six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth models deliver up to 160 horsepower and customers who purchase or lease a Fiat 500 Abarth also receive, for no additional charge, a one-day high-performance driving session at the legendary Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving.

Dealers can order 2018 Fiat 500 vehicles this month, with cars arriving at FIAT studios in the second quarter.

2018 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Coming Soon


The redesigned 2018 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid get new front and rear fascia design, grille, hood, front fenders, rear deck lid, headlights and taillights.

The 2018 Sonata Hybrid has a 154 horsepower 2.0-liter Nu GDI four-cylinder engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission that houses a 51 horsepower 38 kW electric motor for system net power of 193 horsepower. Sonata Hybrid SE has preliminary internal estimates of 39 mpg in the city, 45 mpg on the highway and 42 mpg combined and total range is estimated at more than 650 miles under typical driving conditions. The 2018 Hybrid will be available in the first quarter

The Sonata Plug-in Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated all-electric range of up to 27 miles with a 9.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack, more than five times larger than the Sonata Hybrid’s battery, and it can recharge in less than three hours with a level-two charger. The total estimated range is 590 miles.The 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder GDI engine coupled with the 50 kW electric motor has a total system output of 202 horsepower and the Plug-in Hybrid operates just like the Sonata Hybrid once the onboard battery charge is depleted. The Sonata Plug-in Hybrid uses a six-speed automatic transmission with Hyundai’s Transmission-Mounted Electrical Device. The Plug-in will be available in the second quarter.

2019 Volkswagen Arteon Coming In The 3rd Quarter


The all-new 2019 Volkswagen Arteon mid-sized sedan, based on Volkswagen’s Modular Transverse Matrix architecture which allows for a more cab-backward design, is powered by a 268 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine paired with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission and optional 4Motion® all-wheel drive, and will be available in SE, SEL, and SEL Premium trim levels. Arteon’s wheelbase is more than 5 inches longer and wider than the outgoing CC for more interior space. A rearview camera is standard, along with Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist), and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert. Available driver assistance features include: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop and Go; active Lane Departure Warning (Lane Assist); High Beam Control (Light Assist); Parking Steering Assistant (Park Assist) including Park Distance Control; and Overhead View Camera (Area View). The all-new 2019 Volkswagen Arteon is expected to arrive at U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the third quarter of 2018.

New Hyundai Santa Fe Will Debut In Geneva In March


The new fourth generation Hyundai Santa Fe, which sits on a longer wheelbase, offers Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist to not only warn the driver if vehicles approach from the side but also applies the brakes automatically, and Safety Exit Assist prevents accidents when vehicles approach from behind by temporarily locking the doors, so that passengers will exit the car safely. Further details of the new generation Santa Fe will be disclosed at the world premiere before making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Wednesday, January 24, 2018

2019 Kia Forte Coming Later This Year


The all-new third generation 2019 Kia Forte, in LX, S and EX trims, is 3.2 inches longer at 182.7 inches, 0.7 inches wider and powered by a 147 horsepower second-generation 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder engine paired with either a six-speed manual or Kia’s all-new Intelligent Variable Transmission set to deliver an estimated 35 MPG combined. The Forte comes standard with an 8-inch color touchscreen with Android Auto™3 and Apple CarPlay®4. In addition to Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, the all-new Forte is available with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Smart Cruise Control. The 2019 Forte arrives in the U.S. later this year.

Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Mercedes-Benz G550 Coming Late This Year


The new Mercedes-Benz G550, 2.1-in longer and 4.8-in wider, with the new G550 powered by a  416 horsepower biturbo 4.0-liter V8 gasoline engine mated to a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with torque converter. DYNAMIC SELECT is now available with Comfort, Sport, Eco, Individual and a new off-road G-Mode which works independently of the chosen driving mode as soon as one of the three differential locks has been activated or the LOW RANGE off-road reduction gear has been engaged. The new Mercedes-Benz G550 will go on sale in the U.S. by late 2018.

Nissan Xmotion Concept


Nissan Xmotion concept compact SUV features three rows of side-by-side individual seats over 21-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The interior includes a total of seven digital screen portions.

All-New 2019 Hyundai Veloster Arrives In 2nd Quarter


The all-new 2019 Hyundai Veloster is powered by a 147 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine coupled with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission, the Turbo (pictured above) by a 201 horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged direct-injected four-cylinder engine paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual clutch transmission and the high-performance Veloster N by a 275 horsepower 2.0-liter, direct-injected turbocharged engine mated to a a close-ratio, short-throw six-speed manual transmission with downshift rev-matching capability.  Three driver-selectable modes include Normal, Sport, and Smart, according to changing driver preferences. The Veloster and Veloster Turbo arrive in the second quarter and Veloster N in the fourth quarter 2018.

2019 Acura RDX Prototype Previews Mid-2018 Launch


The all-new, third generation 2019 Acura RDX Prototype luxury five-passenger SUV with a 1.2 inch wider track, 2.5 inch longer wheelbase and shortened front overhang is the first Acura model to fully embody Acura’s new design language, powered by an all-new 2.0-liter DOHC VTEC® Turbo engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 2019 model also will mark the return of Acura Super-Handling All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) to RDX. The all-new 2019 RDX will launch in mid-2018.

2019 Ram 1500 Offers Many New Features


The all-new 2019 Ram 1500 full-size truck, 225 pounds lighter, has an all-new eTorque system for the 305 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 and 395 horsepower 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI engines mated to TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmissions. Also new for 2019, the Ram 1500 Rebel is now available in Quad Cab configurations, bed rails are raised by 1.5 inches and a new spoiler on the new aluminum tailgate is added to reduce drag, a Max Tow Package option with the 3.92 final drive ratio offers up to 12,750 pounds of towing capability and the maximum payload is increased to 2,300 pounds. New for 2019 is an electronic locking differential, available on 4WD trucks with the 3.21 and 3.55 final drive ratio and lifted suspension, and 2WD and 4WD trucks with the 3.92 ratio with the base or lifted suspension (Rebel and 4x4 Off-road Package). The 2019 Ram 1500’s cab length has increased a total of four inches inside.

Lexus LF-1 Limitless Concept


The Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept luxury crossover could be powered by fuel cell, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, gasoline, or all-electric to meet Lexus goal of, by around 2025, to have every Lexus model around the world be available either as a dedicated electrified model, or have an electrified option.

INFINITI Q Inspiration Concept


The INFINITI Q Inspiration Concept in the mid-size sedan segment is powered by INFINITI's VC-Turbo technology variable compression ratio engine for next-level autonomous drive technologies and will not be available for sale.

2019 Volkswagen Jetta Arrives In 2nd Quarter


The all-new 2019 Volkswagen Jetta, available in S, SE, SEL, SEL Premium and R-Line trim levels, offers a 1.3 inch longer wheelbase at 105.7 inches and is powered by a 147 horsepower 1.4-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine mated to a new standard six-speed manual transmission, with an eight-speed automatic transmission optional on the base model and standard on higher trims. The all-new 2019 Jetta pricing starts at $18,545, less than the outgoing base model and is expected to arrive at U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the second quarter of 2018.

2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt Coming This Summer


The new third-generation 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Steve McQueen movie “Bullitt”, is powered by upgraded 5.0-liter V8 engine that will deliver at least 475 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque and is equipped with a manual transmission, pushing the new Bullitt to a top speed of 163 mph, an 8 mph increase versus the latest Mustang GT. The special-edition Mustang Bullitt model is due out this Summer.

2019 Chevrolet Silverado Coming This Fall


The next-generation 2019 Chevrolet Silverado, offered in eight trims, is 450 pounds lighter than the current model with a wheelbase that is up to 3.9 inches longer and an overall length that is 1.6 inches longer. The 2019 Silverado offers new 5.3L and 6.2L V-8 engines and an all-new Duramax 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel. Both the 3.0L diesel and 6.2L engines are paired with a new Hydra-Matic 10-speed automatic transmission. Customer deliveries begin this Fall.

2019 Ford Ranger Goes Into Production Late This Year


The all-new 2019 Ford Ranger midsize pickup, powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® direct fuel injection twin-scroll turbocharged 16-valve engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, features a new exterior design, chassis and powertrain developed specifically for North American truck customers. Ranger comes in entry-level XL, mid-level XLT and high-level Lariat trim series with available Chrome and Sport appearance and FX Off-Road packages, and in SuperCab or SuperCrew cab configurations. Production begins late this year at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant.

2018 Volkswagen Passat GT Arrives 2nd Quarter


The 2018 Volkswagen Passat GT powered by a 280 horsepower 3.6-liter VR6® engine mated to a standard six-speed DSG® automatic transmission with Tiptronic® on steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, joins the Passat lineup for model year 2018 as a limited-run special model based off the R-Line® trim. The 2018 Passat GT is expected to arrive at U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the second quarter of 2018 starting at $29,940 (including $850 destination charge).

Video: Nissan's Evan Landry On The 2018 Nissan Kicks


The 2018 Nissan Kicks front-wheel drive compact crossover, powered by a 125 horsepower standard 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System mated to a Xtronic transmission, has fuel economy anticipated at 33 mpg combined. Kicks arrives at U.S. dealerships in June 2018.

Nissan North America's Sr. Planner Product Planning Evan Landry discusses the Kicks.

Friday, December 29, 2017

2017 LA Auto Show Video: BMW's Christian Voigt On Debuts


Christian Voigt, Product Strategy Manager, BMW of North America discusses the many introductions at the LA Auto Show including the World Debut of the i8 Roadster, i3s, the first-ever BMW M3 CS and the 2018 BMW M5 with the first ever M-specific all-wheel drive system, along with the 8 series, X7, iVision concepts.

The new BMW X7 Sports Activity Vehicle pre-production models have started rolling off the assembly line at the Spartanburg USA plant so the countdown has started for the final twelve months leading up to the production car at the end of 2018. The vehicle will undergo various tests under partially extreme conditions before launching.

The all-new BMW X2 and the 2019 BMW i8 Coupe will make their world debuts in Detroit at the 2018 North American International Auto Show on January 15.

2017 LA Auto Show Video: Mitsubishi's Nate Berg On 2018 Eclipse Cross


Mitsubishi's Senior Manager of Long Range Product Planning Nate Berg discusses the all-new 2018 Eclipse Cross, its new turbo engine, features and the Mitsubishi line-up. 

2017 LA Auto Show Video: Kia's Orth Henrick On The Future


Orth Hedrick, Vice President, Product Planning, Kia Motors America discusses the future of driving, autonomous cars, 2018 Niro Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) and driver assist features.

2017 LA Auto Show Video: Volvo's Lennart Odhner On XC40


The new 2019 Volvo XC40 compact SUV will start at $35,200 for the T5 Momentum trim and later in 2018, a T4 front-wheel drive configuration will be introduced starting at $33,200. Additional powertrain options, including hybridized and pure electric propulsion systems, will be added later. The new Volvo XC40 will begin arriving in Volvo’s nearly 300 U.S. showrooms in early Spring 2018 as a model year 2019.

Lennart Odhner, Volvo Car Corporation Product Manager New Cars discusses the new XC40 at its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. 

Thursday, December 21, 2017

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Will Go On Sale Late Next Year


The new larger Mercedes-Benz G-Class luxury off-road vehicle features touch-sensitive Touch Control Buttons on the steering wheel that respond to swiping motions in the same way as the surface of a smartphone. Two 12.3-inch displays blend visually into a wide-screen cockpit that allow drivers a choice of "Classic," "Sport" and "Progressive" styles for the displays along with customized configuration views. The standard audio system features seven loudspeakers and the optional Burmester® surround sound system has 16 speakers and a 590 watt amplifier with Digital Sound Processing. The new G-Class will be make its world premiere at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit and go on sale in the U.S. by late 2018.

2019 Chevrolet Silverado To Debut In January


The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is all new from the ground up with more engine/transmission combinations, more technology features and the new Silverado LT Trailboss as one of eight models. The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado will make its public debut in mid-January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

2019 Jeep Cherokee To Debut Next Month


The 2019 Jeep Cherokee mid-size SUV will debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in mid-January.

2019 Honda Insight Coming Early Next Year


All-new 2019 Honda Insight five-passenger sedan, powered by Honda's two-motor hybrid system, is positioned above the Civic in Honda's passenger car lineup. The Honda Insight Prototype will make its world debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in mid-January The Insight will be manufactured at Honda's Greensburg, Indiana plant, alongside Civic and CR-V using domestic and globally sourced parts and will join the Clarity series (Clarity Fuel Cell, Clarity Electric and Clarity Plug-in Hybrid) and the all-new 2018 Accord Hybrid, arriving at dealerships nationwide early next year.

Thursday, December 14, 2017

2019 Volkswagen Jetta To Debut In Mid-January


The all-new 2019 Volkswagen Jetta will debut in Detroit in mid-January.

McLaren Senna - Million Dollar Road Legal Supercar


The McLaren Senna powered by a 789 horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 is the most powerful McLaren road car internal combustion engine ever, designed, engineered and developed for the road. A dual-clutch, seven-speed transmission delivers power to the rear wheels and a fully automatic mode is the default, with steering wheel mounted carbon fiber paddles for the driver to choose full manual control of gear shifting. The Active Dynamics Panel has a choice of Comfort, Sport or Track powertrain modes. Priced at £750,000 including taxes (UK) or about $1,007,415, production is limited to 500 units. The McLaren Senna will make its public debut in March, at the 88th Geneva International Motor Show.

Monday, December 4, 2017

LA Auto Show: Volkswagen I.D. CROZZ Concept


The all-electric Volkswagen I.D. CROZZ compact SUV, expected to launch in 2020 ahead of the 2022 revival of the I.D. BUZZ, carries the future of transportation technology, from its voice-activated doors and trunk to its planned self-driving technology. Sized similarly to the 2018 Tiguan in a four-door coupe shape, the I.D.CROZZ combines an 83-kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a pair of electric motors, one on each axle. The front motor generates 101 horsepower and the rear 201 horsepower, for a combined system output of 302 horsepower. This concept vehicle will offer an anticipated range of up to 300 miles. Volkswagen has a goal to build 15 different VW EVs globally by 2025.

LA Auto Show: 2018 BMW i3s


The 2018 BMW i3s, has a sports suspension with specially developed springs, dampers and anti-roll bars and features a high output 184 horsepower electric motor which can also be equipped with a two-cylinder range extender gasoline engine extending the overall range in everyday use from around 97 miles to a maximum of 180 miles. The 170 horsepower BMW i3 and the more powerful BMW i3s draw their energy from the lithium-ion high-voltage battery with a cell capacity of 94-ampere hours. SPORT mode initiates more direct accelerator response and tighter steering characteristics. Zero to 60 mph time is 6.8 seconds to a top speed of 100 mph. The BMW i3s will go on sale early next year for $47,650.

LA Auto Show: 2018 BMW M3 CS


The first-ever 2018 BMW M3 CS is a special-edition model powered by a 453 horsepower 3.0-liter M TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder inline engine mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. Orders can be placed starting May, 2018 with production limited to approximately 1,200 worldwide, with approximately 550 coming to the U.S. Pricing will be upwards of $100,000 and announced closer to market launch next year.

2018 Subaru BRZ Starts At $26,455 Next Month


The 2018 Subaru BRZ, in Premium and Limited trims and powered by a 205 horsepower 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine mated to a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission and TORSEN® limited-slip differential (optional automatic transmission model has 200 horsepower) starts at $26,455 (including $860 destination & delivery) for the BRZ Premium, an increase of $100 from the 2017 model year. The BRZ Performance Package is $1,195. The BRZ is designed with 2+2 seating and fold-down rear seatback. The 2018 BRZ models will arrive in Subaru retailers in January 2018.

Lamborghini Urus SUV Coming Next Year


The Lamborghini Urus is powered by a 650 horsepower 4.0 liter V8 twin-turbo engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission combined with 4-wheel-steering, 4-wheel-drive system with active rear torque vectoring, adaptive air suspension with active dampers, a roll stabilization system with continuous and immediate response, and carbon ceramic brakes. There are two ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) packages. Off-road modes are NEVE for slippery surfaces, TERRA for off-road conditions and SABBIA for sandy surfaces. The Urus has a 1700 Watt 3D surround Bang & Olufsen sound system with 21 speakers. The price is expected to start at $200,000.

Sunday, December 3, 2017

LA Auto Show: 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Convertible Starts At $123,995


The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Convertible, the first ZR1 drop-top since the original 1970 model-year ZR1, is powered by a 755 horsepower LT5 6.2L supercharged engine mated to a choice of a seven-speed manual transmission or a paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission delivering a 0-60 mph in under 3.0 seconds and quarter mile in the high 10-second range when the engine is equipped with the eight-speed automatic. The Corvette ZR1’s aero package is central to the coupe’s 212-mph top speed. It features Stealth, Tour, Sport and Track modes and sound levels. An adjustable High Wing is part of the new $2,995 ZTK Performance Package. Four new radiators also help manage cooling in the ZR1, which features 13 radiators in all, including circuits for engine oil, transmission and differential cooling. On sale next spring alongside the Corvette ZR1 coupe, the ZR1 coupe will carry a suggested retail price of $119,995, while the ZR1 convertible will start at $123,995 (prices include destination charge, but exclude tax, title and other dealer fees).

LA Auto Show: 2018 Hyundai Kona


2018 Hyundai Kona crossover, on an all-new CUV platform, is powered by a choice of a 147 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Atkinson engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC™ manual-shifting mode and the Limited and Ultimate trims offer the 175 horsepower Gamma 1.6-liter 4-cylinder direct-injected, turbocharged engine. Differentiated rear suspension design has been developed for 2WD and AWD models. Kona offers Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Driver Attention Warning. Kona radar systems also assist with the Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Collison Warning. Advanced connectivity features include standard Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™, SiriusXM® Radio, HD Radio and next-generation Blue Link® LTE-powered connectivity. 2018 Kona models will be available at Hyundai dealers in the first quarter of 2018.

LA Auto Show: 2019 Kia Sorento


The refreshed 2019 Kia Sorento SUV, in L, LX, EX, SX and SXL trim levels, is powered by a choice of a 185 horsepower 2.4-liter inline-4 GDI mated to a revised electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission or a 290 horsepower 3.3-liter V6 engine with a new 8-speed automatic transmission. Sorento offers standard 40/20/40 second-row folding seats and 50/50 third-row folding seats now comes standard on all trims, providing space for up to seven passengers. The new Smart Shift & Drive feature across all trim levels automatically activates the optimum Eco, Sport or Smart drive mode based on driving style or may be set by driver preference. Aside from new front and rear fascias and a new engine choice,  newly-added technology includes Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keep Assist and QuantumLogic™ Surround Sound. And for 2019, Sorento now offers 2-way powered lumbar support for the front passenger on SX and SXL trims.

LA Auto Show: Jaguar E-PACE Compact SUV


The Jaguar E-PACE five-seat permanent AWD compact SUV features two four-cylinder Ingenium gasoline engine options producing 246 horsepower and 296 horsepower, each mated to a ZF® 9-speed automatic transmission. The E-PACE and E-PACE R-Dynamic are available in Standard, S, SE and HSE specifications. Mode selections are Normal for regular journeys, Dynamic for steering, throttle response, Adaptive Dynamics, AWD/Active Driveline, transmission shift strategy, Dynamic Stability Control and Torque Vectoring by Braking, while ECO modifies settings to optimize fuel economy and Rain, Ice and Snow enhances stability in low-grip conditions. The Jaguar E-PACE will go on sale beginning in early 2018 priced from $39,995 (including $995 destination/handling charge).

LA Auto Show: 2018 Mazda6


The re-engineered 2018 Mazda6, powered by either the four-cylinder SKYACTIV-G 2.5 naturally aspirated engine or, for higher-grade models, also available with the 250 horsepower (on 93-octane) or 227 horsepower (with 87-octane) SKYACTIV-G 2.5T gasoline turbo engine paired to the six-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission. Mazda6’s front seats are wider, with high-density, vibration-absorbing urethane foam designed to help keep front passengers’ spines in the natural S-shape humans use when standing. Available are ventilated front seats, 360⁰ View Monitor, a reconfigurable 7.0-inch TFT gauge display in higher-trim models and a new 8.0-inch MAZDA CONNECT infotainment display with sharper color contrast. The re-engineered, refined Mazda6 is expected to go on sale in Spring 2018.

Saturday, December 2, 2017

LA Auto Show: BMW Concept X7 iPerformance


The BMW Concept X7 iPerformance, a six-person luxury-class BMW plug-in hybrid SAV, is a look ahead to the future production model set to make its debut in 2018.