Friday, November 1, 2019

2020 MINI Cooper SE Starts At $30,750 In March


The 2020 MINI Cooper SE, with a front wheel drive electric motor that generates 181 horsepower, will reach US showrooms in early March of 2020 starting at $30,750 (including $850 destination & handling fee).

2020 Mazda6 Starts At $24,920


The 2020 Mazda6, in Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims, is equipped with G-Vectoring Control Plus and powered by a either a 187 horsepower Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine or a turbocharged 227 horsepower Skyactiv-G 2.5T engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission including a Sport Mode that recalibrates the gear ratios for more spirited driving. Mazda6 Sport comes standard with Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go function, Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection, Smart Brake Support with Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The 2020 Mazda6 starts at $24,920 (including $920 for destination and handling).

Nissan Ariya Concept


The Nissan Ariya Concept, a crossover EV with twin electric motors, features the latest version of Nissan's driver assistance system, ProPILOT 2.0, which combines navigated highway driving with hands-off single-lane driving capabilities by engaging the vehicle's navigation system to help maneuver the car on a predefined route on designated roads to assist the driver with passing, lane diversions and lane exiting on multi-lane highways. ProPILOT 2.0 also enables hands-off driving while cruising in a given lane. When approaching a road diversion or preparing to pass another vehicle, the system judges the appropriate timing of branching off or passing based on information from the navigation system and 360-degree sensing.

Mitsubishi MI-TECH CONCEPT


The Mitsubishi MI-TECH CONCEPT small-sized electrified SUV concept car is lightweight and compact PHEV (Plug-In Electric Vehicle) with a four-motor electric 4WD system and equipped with MI-PILOT, next-generation driver assistance technology not only on freeways and ordinary roads, but also on unpaved roads.

Lexus LF-30 Electrified Concept


The Lexus LF-30 Electrified Concept employs next-generation interfaces, such as gesture control and enhanced presentation of vehicle information through AR (augmented reality) with in-wheel electric motors, steering by wire, and Lexus Advanced Posture Control. Based on the latest autonomous driving technology concept of ‘Lexus Teammate’, the LF-30 Electrified features advanced driving support functions in the form of a Chauffeur mode and a Guardian mode. Occupants can enjoy both comfort and peace of mind during autonomous driving with advanced posture control technology being employed.Lexus plans to unveil its first BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) this month.

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Starts At $23,155 Soon


The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek and Crosstrek Hybrid models, offered in Base, Premium, and Limited trim levels, and powered by the standard 152 horsepower Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Active Torque Vectoring 2.0-liter 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER ® engine mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or Lineartronic CVT, will start at $23,155 (including $1,010 destination & delivery). For 2020, all Crosstrek models equipped with Lineartronic® CVT come standard with Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, Auto Start-Stop and SI-Drive. Also new for 2020 is the available Rear Seat Reminder, designed to help prevent child or pet entrapment by alerting the driver to check the rear seat before exiting the vehicle. Priced at $36,155, the Crosstrek Hybrid is offered in a single standard trim and delivers up to 90 MPGe with a total range of 480 miles.The high-capacity lithium-ion battery, mounted beneath the cargo area, enables the Hybrid to achieve an EV range of 17 miles. Both SUV models will begin arrives in Subaru retailers later this year.

2020 Nissan TITAN Goes On Sale In Early 2020


The new 2020 Nissan TITAN goes on sale in early 2020.

Volvo XC40 Recharge - Fully Electric


The Volvo XC40 Recharge, the first of fully electric Volvos to come and with a brand new infotainment system powered by Google’s Android operating system, offers a range of over 200 miles in U.S. on a single charge and output of 402 horsepower. The battery charges to 80 % of its capacity in 40 mins on a fast-charger system. Over the next five years, Volvo Cars will launch a fully electric car every year, as it seeks to make all-electric cars 50 percent of global sales by 2025, with the rest hybrids. Recharge will be the overarching name for all chargeable Volvos with a fully electric and plug-in hybrid powertrain. Volvo Cars aims for plug-in hybrid cars to make up 20 percent of total sales in 2020.

2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Coming In March


The new 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offered as the BMW 228i xDrive model powered by the 228 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed Sport automatic transmission and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system to the wheels or as the BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe delivering 301 horsepower. The standard Active Driving Assistant includes safety features like Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation Function and Active Blind Spot Detection, and Daytime Pedestrian Protection. Also included is the Lane Departure Warning system with active lane return, which operates from 43 – 150mph. The standard Lane Change Warning system, which prompts the driver to guide the car back onto the correct lane at speeds above 12 mph by means of a visual warning and, if necessary, a steering input. The Active Driving Assistant’s other functions include rear collision preparation and cross traffic warning, which reduces the risk of a collision when reversing into roads or paths obstructed from the driver’s view. Market launch is planned for March 2020.

2020 Audi A6 allroad Returns Next Year


The 2020 Audi A6 allroad, equipped with a 335 horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 TFSI® engine mated to a seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch automatic transmission with standard quattro® ultra® technology, returns next year following its original introduction in 2000.

Porsche Taycan 4S Starts At $105,150 Next Spring


The Porsche Taycan 4S, the third version of the sport sedan after the Taycan Turbo S and the Taycan Turbo, is priced to start at $105,150 (including $1,350 for processing, delivery and handling) with the standard 522 horsepower Performance Battery and $111,730 with the optional 563 horsepower Performance Battery Plus. The Taycan Turbo starts at $152,250, and the Taycan Turbo S starts at $186,350. Its's all-wheel drive with two permanently excited synchronous motors on the front and rear axles as well as a two-speed transmission on the rear axle. The Taycan 4S can be ordered immediately and is scheduled to arrive in US dealerships in Spring 2020.

Toyota "LQ" Concept


The Toyota "LQ" concept vehicle, the next generation of the Toyota "Concept-i", is equipped with an SAE2 Level 4 equivalent automated driving function that includes Automated Valet Parking System, developed with Panasonic Corporation that eliminates the need to search for parking spaces by automatically driving between a drop-off spot and an assigned parking space in nearby parking lot. LQ's advanced seating system consists of multiple inflatable air bladders embedded into the seat with an in-seat air conditioning system to help keep the driver awake or relaxed depending on the driving situation.

2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Arrives In The Spring


The all-new 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport five-seater midsize SUV with a coupe-like design is 2.8 inches shorter than the current Atlas and 2.3 inches lower on the same 117.3-inch wheelbase and available with either a 276-horsepower V6 or 235-horsepower four-cylinder turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with Volkswagen’s 4Motion® all-wheel-drive system an available option. Available are Traffic Jam Assist to help maintain following distance from the car in front, and help center the Atlas Cross Sport in its lane, and Dynamic Road Sign Display to display speed limits, no-passing zones, school zones and work zones on the navigation screen and instrument panel when detected by the front camera and navigation system data. There will be eight trim levels: S, SE, SE w/Tech, SE w/Tech R-Line, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL Premium, and SEL Premium R-Line. More details and pricing will be announced ahead of the launch in the Spring of 2020.

2021 Toyota Mirai 2nd Gen FCEV Coming Late Next Year


The 2021 Toyota Mirai, in its second generation and based on Toyota’s premium rear-wheel drive platform, targets a 30-percent increase in range by an improvement in fuel cell system performance and increased hydrogen storage capacity.  The Mirai is an electric vehicle, but it never needs to be plugged in to recharge. An FCEV (Fuel-Cell Electric Vehicle) generates its own electricity onboard from hydrogen & oxygen, with water as the only tailpipe emission. A fill-up takes just about five minutes at an SAE-conforming hydrogen fueling station in California or Hawaii (with stations also planned for the Northeast and other areas). The fuel cell is composed of an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte membrane. Hydrogen is passed through the anode, and oxygen through the cathode. The hydrogen molecules are split into electrons and protons. As protons pass through the electrolyte membrane, electrons travel along a circuit, generating an electric current and heat. At the cathode, the protons, electrons, and oxygen combine to produce water molecules. There are no other byproducts, just pure water. The second-gen Mirai will go on sale in late 2020.

2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe Coming In March


The 2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe and M8 Gran Coupe Competition, powered by a 600 horsepower 4.4 liter S63 M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine and mated to the M Eight-speed Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, rides on a chassis and body which is 9.1-inches longer, 1.4-inches wider, 2.3-inches taller and with an increased 7.9-inch wheelbase over the M8 Coupe. The Competition models feature firmer suspension settings to further improve steering and lateral responses, stiffer engine mounts, increased front negative camber for increased cornering ability and rear toe-link ball-joints instead of rubber bushings for more precise rear wheel tracking. The M8 Gran Coupe First Edition, with 50 units for the U.S. market, goes into production in March 2020.

2021 Chevrolet Colorado WT, LT and Z71 Go On Sale Next Year


The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado WT, LT and Z71 midsize truck will all receive updated center bars, lower fascias and front skid plates when it goes on sale next year. The ZR2 off-road performance variant has a new front end that provides drivers with improved visibility, Multimatic DSSVTM position-sensitive dampers, standard front and rear electronic locking differentials, 2-inch suspension lift, 3.5-inch wider track, off-road rocker protection, cast iron control arms, Autotrac transfer case, and multiple skid plates, will now come equipped with standard red tow hooks as well.

2020 Subaru Impreza Sedan Starts At $19,595 Now


The 2020 Subaru Impreza sedan and 5-door models, in Base, Premium, Sport and Limited trims and powered by a 152-horsepower 2.0- liter 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER®engine with direct fuel injection and Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, starts at $19,595 (including $900 destination & delivery). Available on all trim levels is the Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) which, on Premium and above, features a 7-speed manual mode function with steering wheel paddle shifters that allows the driver to control the transmission via seven pre-set ratios. The 2020 Impreza achieves up to 36 highway MPG and more than 450 miles on a full tank. The entry-level Impreza with Lineartronic CVT is priced at $20,895 and includes standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, Rear Seat Reminder, high-grade combination meter with 4.2-inch color LCD, Tire Pressure Monitoring System with Automatic Individual Wheel ID Registration and electronic trunk lid release (sedan). A $1,970 option package for Premium adds a Power Moonroof, Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Keyless Access with Push-Button Start and 6-way power driver’s seat.

Thursday, October 3, 2019

2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Hardtop Convertible


The mid-engine 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible, priced $7,500 more than entry 1LT Stingray coupe, is the first-ever hardtop Corvette convertible and is powered by the next-generation 495 horsepower 6.2L Small Block V-8 LT2 engine paired with Chevrolet’s first eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The two-piece top, powered by six electric motors, can be activated at speeds up to 30 mph and retract in as few as 16 seconds. A body-colored roof is standard, while Carbon Flash metallic-painted nacelles and roof are optional. The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe goes into production at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly in late 2019, with the convertible following in late first-quarter 2020.

Wednesday, October 2, 2019

2020 BMW X5 M And X6 M Start At $106,095 Next Spring


The 3rd generation BMW X5 M Sports Activity Vehicle and X6 M Sports Activity Coupe are powered by a 600 horsepower  twin-turbocharged S63 V8 engine with the Competition models producing 617 horsepower and mated to an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with M shift paddles and offering both automatic and manual shift modes with three selectable levels of programming controlling shift speed and sharpness. Intelligent connectivity allows the M Steptronic to adapt its shift strategy according to the route and driving situation by working with the standard Navigation System and if equipped, combining this data with information from the Active Cruise Control system’s radar sensor to shift proactively to the correct gear for upcoming road conditions. Pricing begins at $106,095 for X5 M  (including $995 destination fee), $115,095 for X5 M Competition, $109,595 X6 M and $118,595 for X6 M Competition. Market launch is set for Spring of 2020.

Tuesday, October 1, 2019

Video: 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

Scott Brown FCA Group PR West Manager takes us through the attributes of the 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon that offers off-road capability with a body-on-frame design, front and rear five-link suspension system, solid axles and electronic lockers. The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon starts at $43,290 (including $1,495 destination charge) and is powered by either a 285 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine or a 270 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or available eight-speed automatic. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon has an approach angle of 44 degrees, breakover angle of 27.8 degrees, departure angle of 37 degrees and a ground clearance of 10.9 inches and features next-generation Dana front and rear heavy-duty axles,  off-road rock rails and the Rock-Trac NV241 two-speed transfer case with a 4.0:1 low-range gear ratio. Wrangler Rubicon also includes electric front and rear locking differentials and disconnecting front sway bar.

Click here to watch video.

Friday, September 27, 2019

2020 Dodge Chargers Arrive in Early 2020 Starting At $31,390


The 2020 Dodge Charger SXT RWD, powered by the standard 292 horsepower Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 working with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission delivers up to 30 mpg on the highway and starts at $31,390 (including $1,495 destination charge). Charger GT RWD, powered by a 300-horsepower Pentastar V-6 paired with the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, starts at $33,390. Charger SXT AWD, powered by the standard 292 horsepower Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 working with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, starts at $35,090. Charger R/T, powered by a 370 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 mated to the standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, starts at $37,890. Charger Scat Pack, powered by a 485 horsepower 392 HEMI V-8 mated to the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, starts at $41,490.
Charger Scat Pack Widebody, powered by the 485 horsepower 392-cubic-inch HEMI V-8 engine mated to the TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission, starts at $47,490. Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody, new for 2020, and powered by a 707-horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® V-8 starts at $71,140. The 717-horsepower Daytona 50th Anniversary Edition starts at $75,635.
2020 Dodge Charger models will start arriving in Dodge//SRT dealerships early in 2020.

2020 Nissan TITAN Coming Early Next Year


The 2020 Nissan TITAN full-size pickup has been redigned and is powered by a 400 horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 gasoline engine mated with a new 9-speed automatic transmission with a larger final gear ratio. New all-LED lighting has been added to the pickup bed, while the rear exterior design includes new LED lights and tailgate finishers. Features include Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, standard Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent Around View Monitor, Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent Driver Alertness, Traffic Sign Recognition and Nissan’s Rear Door Alert. The 2020 TITAN, in King Cab and Crew Cab body configurations comes in S, SV, PRO-4X, SL and Platinum Reserve trim levels and goes on sale in early 2020.

2020 Honda Accord Hybrid On Sale For $26,400


The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid is powered by Honda's third generation 212 horsepower two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain comprised of a 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC® Atkinson-cycle engine with 40-percent thermal efficiency and an electric propulsion motor with 232 lb.-ft. of torque. New to the Accord Hybrid for 2020 is an updated Acoustic Vehicle Alert System warning of pedestrians, bicyclists and other road users whenever the car is operating on electric power only (unless in Park). Collision Mitigation Braking System™  with pedestrian detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Traffic Sign Recognition are standard. The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid begins arriving in dealer showrooms tomorrow with a starting price of $26,400 (including $930 destination and handing).

2020 Hyundai NEXO Fuel Cell SUV Gets Up To 380 Mile Range


2020 Hyundai NEXO fuel cell SUV, available in California, with 161 peak horsepower has an estimated driving range of 380 miles for the NEXO Blue model, and 354 miles for the Limited trim. NEXO Blue models have estimated MPGe of 65 city, 58 highway and 61 combined, while NEXO Limited models have an estimated MPGe of 59 city, 54 highway, and 57 combined. NEXO refueling time can be achieved in as little as five minutes. NEXO offers Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist. RSPA enables NEXO to either autonomously park or retrieve itself from either a parallel or perpendicular parking space with or without a driver in the vehicle. The RSPA system can even autonomously back NEXO into a parking spot with a touch of a key fob button by the driver. For 2020, a newly-available cargo cover, front passenger window auto-up/down and rear privacy glass are now standard on Blue models.

2020 Hyundai Kona Electric With 258 Mile Range


The 2020 Hyundai Kona Electric SUV, the brand's first compact electric crossover for the U.S. market, is on an all-new CUV platform and will offer an enhanced premium navigation system and a battery warmer system. Powered by a 201 horsepower permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor supplied by a 64 kWh lithium-ion battery develops 291 lb.-ft. of torque distributed to the front wheels. The battery system is liquid-cooled and operates at 356 volts. The Kona Electric has a 258-Mile EPA-estimated range, with the EPA-estimated MPGe of 132 city, 108 highway, and 120 combined. Kona Electric battery is covered by Hyundai’s 10-year, 100K mile battery warranty.

2020 Nissan Pathfinder, Murano, Armada On Sale Now


The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder seven-passenger SUV, with either 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive in S, SV, SL and Platinum trim levels is powered by a 284 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 with Direct Injection Gasoline™ system and Xtronic transmission and standard maximum towing capacity up to 6,000 pounds starts at $32,675 (including $995 destination and handling).


The 2020 Nissan Murano, in its third generation and available in S, SV, SL and Platinum trim levels, is powered by a 260-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 connected to an advanced Xtronic transmission. The 2020 Murano is available in front-wheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, starts at $32,525 (including $995 destination and handling).


The 2020 Nissan Armada full-size SUV, which adds a new 22" Wheel Package with 22x8-inch 14-spoke forged aluminum-alloy wheels and offers heated outside mirrors standard on all grade levels, is powered by a 390 horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 with standard 8,500-pound towing capacity in both 4WD and 2WD configurations. The 2020 Armada is available in SV, SL, Platinum and Platinum Reserve trim levels in 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations, starts at $48,095 (including $995 destination and handling).

Thursday, September 12, 2019

All-New Cadillac CT4 Sedan Available To Order Later This Year


The all-new Cadillac CT4 sport sedan, built on Cadillac’s RWD sedan architecture with all-wheel drive available on all models, is powered by a 237 horsepower 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo engine, with three-step sliding camshaft technology along with Active Fuel Management and automatic stop/start, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Cadillac’s new 309 horsepower 2.7L Dual-Volute Turbo engine is available on Premium Luxury and is standard on the with CT4-V rated at 325 horsepower matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Precision Shift. Super Cruise driver assistance, available in calendar year 2020, enables customers to drive hands-free on more than 200,000 miles of compatible highways in the U.S. and Canada, using LiDAR map data, high-precision GPS, a state-of-the-art driver attention system and a network of camera and radar sensors. The driver attention system helps keep drivers engaged by detecting and signaling when drivers need to pay more attention to the road. The 2020 Cadillac CT4 will be available for ordering later this year. Pricing and additional information will be announced closer to the start of regular production.

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

Mercedes-Benz Vision EQS Concept


Mercedes-Benz Vision EQS, a fully-electric vehicle showing off the futuristic design for EQ models from Mercedes-Benz, has a combined output of over 469 horsepower accelerating this show car from 0-60 mph in under 4.5 seconds with a range of up to 435 miles (according to WLTP). Assuming a charging performance of 350 kW, the show car recharges the battery to 80% in less than 20 minutes.

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

New 2020 Land Rover Defender Starting at $50,925 This Spring


The new 2020 Land Rover Defender, in S, SE, HSE, First Edition and Defender X trim levels with Explorer, Adventure, Country and Urban accessory packs, is available in 90 and 110 body designs, with up to six seats in the 90 and the option of five, six or 5+2 seating in the 110.  U.S. customers will be able to choose between the P300 with a 296 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, or the P400 with a 395 horsepower inline six-cylinder Mild-Hybrid Electric Vehicle powertrain paired with an eight-speed ZF® automatic transmission and twin-speed transfer box, to provide a set of low-range ratios essential for towing or off-road driving when more control is required. The maximum towing capability is 8,201-lbs and a maximum static roof load is 661lbs. The Defender 110 will be priced from $50,925 (including $1,025 destination and delivery charges) in the U.S. and will go on sale in Spring 2020. The Defender 90 body style will be available later in 2020.

2020 Hyundai i10 N Line Coming To Europe Next Summer


The all-new 2020 Hyundai i10, the brand's European city car that debuted in 2008 and is designed, developed and made in Europe, is also the fourth Hyundai model after the i30, i30 Fastback and Tucson to be launched with the high-performance sub-brand N Line version. The All-New i10 N Line offers a 100 horsepower 1.0-liter T-GDi 3-cylinder or 83 horsepower 1.2-liter MPi 4-cylinder engine mated to a five-gear manual transmission. The All-New i10 N Line will be available in Europe in summer 2020.

The BMW Concept 4


The BMW Concept 4, the new face of the 4 Series.

Volkswagen ID.3 1ST Fully Electric Vehicle


Volkswagen ID.3 1ST fully electric vehicle, offered in Basic, Plus and Max trim levels, is driven by a 201 horsepower permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor including power electronics and transmission, which have been integrated into the rear axle with a range up to 261 miles. With DC charging, it is possible to recharge enough energy to cover a range of 180 miles within 30 minutes. Volkswagen will offer a guarantee of eight years or 100,000 miles on ID.3 batteries. (All metric numbers have been converted.)

Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 4MATIC 3rd Gen Plug-in Hybrid Coming Next Year


Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e 4MATIC EQ Power mid-size SUV with 315 system horsepower combining a 208 horsepower in-line 4 cylinder gas engine with Mercedes-Benz third-generation plug-in hybrid technology producing an increased all-electric range (NEDC electric range approx. 28-30 miles; EPA electric range TBA). The new on-board charger more than doubles the charging capacity from 3.6 kW to 7.4 kW. The redesigned Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e will go on sale in the U.S. in the first half of 2020. By the end of 2019, Mercedes-Benz will have more than ten plug-in hybrids available globally with an aim of over 20 model variants in 2020.

Porsche Taycan Fully-Electric Sedan Coming Soon



The Porsche Taycan fully-electric four-door sports sedan will roll out as the Taycan Turbo S and Taycan Turbo with the flagship Turbo S version able to generate up to 750 horsepower in combination with Launch Control and overboost for a zero to 60 mph of 2.6 seconds, while the Taycan Turbo can produce up to 670 horsepower for a 3.0 second zero to 60 time to a top speed of 161 mph. The EPA range estimate for North American market is pending for both vehicles. Driving modes available include “Normal”, “Sport”, “Sport Plus”, and “Range” and individual systems can be configured as required in the “Individual” mode. The Taycan is the first production vehicle with a system voltage of 800 volts instead of the commonly used 400 volts for electric cars. Less powerful variants of these all-wheel drive vehicles will follow this year, and the first derivative to be added will be the Taycan Cross Turismo at the end of next year. The Taycan was shown as the Mission E concept and discussed last Fall at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Tuesday, September 3, 2019

2020 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid Gets 28 MPG


2020 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is powered by a 3.3-liter hybrid engine mated to an all-new 10-speed modular hybrid transmission with up to 5,000 pound towing capacity. With an 18-gallon fuel tank the rear-wheel drive model has EPA-estimated range of over 500 miles with ratings of 27 mpg city/29 mpg highway/28 mpg combined and the four-wheel drive-equipped vehicle has a range of over 450 miles with ratings of 23 mpg city/26 mpg highway/25 mpg combined.

2020 Porsche Macan Turbo Starts At $84,950 In 4th Quarter


The 2020 Porsche Macan Turbo is now powered by a 434 horsepower 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine mated to a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission and Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive that boosts acceleration by 0.3-second versus the predecessor model enabling a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds to a top track speed of 167 mph, an increase of 3 mph. The same engine is also used in the Cayenne and Panamera model lines and replaces the 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 used in the previous Macan Turbo. Standard equipment now includes Porsche Surface Coated Brakes, which offer an improvement in both stopping power and aesthetics over the brakes of the preceding model. Porsche Active Suspension Management dampers are also standard equipment. Optional height-adjustable air suspension with optimized rolling pistons and new shock absorber hydraulics, Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus and the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake are available as extra-cost options. The 2020 Macan Turbo is expected to reach U.S. dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2019. The starting MSRP will be $84,950 (including $1,350 for processing, delivery and handling).

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe


The new 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, with a 2.4 in shorter wheelbase than its SUV sibling, is powered by a 429 horsepower 3.0- liter six-cylinder in-line engine with 48-volt technology, variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all- wheel drive mated to a AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission. The GLE 53 Coupe has "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+" and "Individual" drive programs and "Trail" and "Sand" off-road-specific settings.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 Coming Late Next Year


The new 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 is powered by a 302 horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8-speed transmission feeding the variable AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes 5.1 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The standard RACE START function remains active while the accelerator is kept fully depressed. The Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs enable a variety of driving experiences. The 2021 AMG GLB 35 will celebrate its World Premiere at the Frankfurt Auto Show next month, and will go on sale in the U.S. by late 2020.

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Volkswagen Automotive Legend Ferdinand Piëch Passes Away




Austrian engineer and automotive executive Ferdinand Karl Piëch, grandson of Ferdinand Porsche, former head of Audi, chairman of the executive board (1993-2002) and chairman of the supervisory board (2002-2015) of Volkswagen Group, passed away August 25th at the age of 82 (pictured left in 2009). Piëch gained notoriety for the development of many vehicles including the Porsche 911, Audi Quattro and Bugatti Veyron. Piëch was named the Car Executive of the Century in 1999, was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in 2014, and in his personal life fathered 12 children with four different women. It was an honor meeting such a car legend at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show.

Thursday, August 22, 2019

2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV Goes Further On A Charge


The 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV will now offer an EPA-estimated 259 miles of range on a full charge, a 21-mile increase over previous model years. Actual range will vary based on several factors, including temperature, terrain, battery age and vehicle use and maintenance. The 2020 Bolt EV will arrive in dealerships later this year with a starting MSRP of $37,495 (including destination and freight charges, excludes tax, title, license, dealer fees).

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

2020 Honda Civic Si Arrives Next Month


The 2020 Honda Civic Si Sedan and Si Coupe (above), powered by a 205-horsepower 1.5-liter, direct injected and turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, get front and rear styling updates, new more refined LED headlight designs, and a revised final-drive ratio for more responsive acceleration. Honda Sensing®, now standard equipment on Civic Si Sedan and Coupe, includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Mitigation Braking System™ incorporating Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System and Road Departure Mitigation incorporating Lane Departure Warning.  The 2020 Honda Civic Si Sedan and Si Coupe arrive to dealers September 6th with a starting $25,930 MSRP (including $930 destination charge).

Audi RS 6 Avant Arrives Next Year


The Audi RS 6 Avant, powered by a 591 horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine mated to a standard eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission with optimized shift times and new launch control function, is coming to the U.S. market. The standard Audi drive select system offers comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency and the individually configurable RS-specific RS1 and RS2 drive modes, which can be activated directly using the “RS MODE” steering wheel button. The Audi drive select setting influences the engine and transmission management, the power steering, the suspension, the dynamic all-wheel steering, the quattro® sport differential and the engine sound. The Audi RS 6 Avant will arrive in the U.S. in 2020.

Monday, August 19, 2019

Bugatti Centodieci


The new special-edition Bugatti Centodieci (Italian for 110) features a 1,600 horsepower 8.0-liter W16 engine which takes it from 0 to 62 mph in 2.4 seconds, to 124 mph in 6.1 seconds and to 186 mph in 13.1 seconds to an electronically cut off top speed of 236 mph.

2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Arrives in 4th Quarter


The 2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, powered by the new third generation 260 horsepower 3.0-liter V-6 EcoDiesel engine, starts at $38,585 (including $1,695 destination charge) with a towing capability of 12,560 pounds and goes on sale early in the fourth quarter of this year. The 2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is available across all models and configurations, including a first-time offering in the Ram Rebel. The 2020 Ram 1500 is backed with a five-year /100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty.

Audi R8 LMS GT2 For $375,000 By Year End


The Audi R8 LMS GT2, now available for customer orders, powered by a 640 horsepower naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine mated to a seven-speed S-tronic® dual-clutch transmission, accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and reaches a top track speed of 204 mph. The new race car is priced between Audi Sport’s GT4 and GT3 models at $375,000 (338,000 euros) and can now be ordered. Audi Sport will deliver the first race cars before the end of 2019.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Starts At $59,995


The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray a starting price of $59,995 (including $1,095 Destination Freight Charge), the 2LT trim package will start at $67,295 and the top-level 3LT trim package on the 2020 Corvette Stingray will start at $71,945. The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray goes into production at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly in late this year.

Dodge Charger Daytona 50th Anniversary Edition Coming in 2020


The new Dodge Charger Daytona 50th Anniversary Edition, 3.5 inches wider due to wider wheels and tires, is powered by a 717 horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® Hellcat V-8 engine with production limited to 501 units, mirroring the 1969 production total, Vehicles will start to arrive in early 2020.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Acura Type S Concept


The Acura Type S Concept sets the stage for re-introducing Type S performance variants to the Acura line-up after a decade hiatus, and will heavily influence the character of the upcoming, second-generation TLX Type S.