Tuesday, May 23, 2023

BMW Concept Touring Coupé

BMW Concept Touring Coupé is powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine.

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

2024 Lexus LC 500 Starts At $98,850 In June

The 2024 Lexus LC 500 Convertible (above), with the new Bespoke Build option, is powered by a 471 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 paired with a Direct-Shift 10-speed automatic transmission. New to the interior this year, is a standard 12.3-inch high-definition touchscreen display and Parking Assist and a Panoramic View Monitor. The Bespoke Build option allows customers to configure their vehicle with a mix of performance and styling components like the wheels, roof and exterior/interior trim and colors. With this offering, the Bespoke Build option is now available across the entire 2024 LC 500 lineup. The convertible starts at $106,350 (including DPH) and is expected to go on sale in June 2023. The 2024 LC 500 hardtop starts at $98,850 MSRP (including $1,150 DPH). 

The LC 500h, which starts at $102,150, has combined net system output of 354 horsepower with the Multistage Hybrid System utilizing the power from a V6 engine and the electric motor amplified by the 4-speed automatic transmission. The LC 500h uses a compact, lightweight lithium-ion battery that fits between the rear seats and the luggage compartment and has a high-power density, with its 84 cells producing 310.8 volts. Both models are expected to go on sale in June. 

2023 Ram 1500 Havoc Edition Coming This Spring

The new 2023 Ram 1500 Havoc Edition, with Baja Yellow exterior color, with black exterior accents and off-road focused interior content, is powered by a 5.7-liter HEMI® eTorque V-8 engine. The Ram 1500 Rebel Havoc Edition is available in extremely limited quantities at a starting price of $72,205 (including $1,895 destination) later this Spring.

2024 Nissan GT-R and GT-R NISMO Coming This Spring


The 2024 Nissan GT-R (left), with redesigned front and rear fascias, rear wings and other body elements to increase aerodynamic downforce and reduce drag, is powered by a 565 horsepower 3.8-liter V6, 24-valve, twin-turbocharged engine mated to a standard 6-speed dual-clutch transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual control. The 2024 Nissan GT-R goes on sale in limited numbers this Spring at select U.S. Nissan dealers starting at $122,885 (including $1,895 destination and handling). 

The 600 horsepower 2024 GT-R NISMO (above right), available with a NISMO Appearance Package that includes exclusive RAYS® wheels with red accents, a clear coat applied to the carbon fiber hood and an exclusive engine cover also adds a front limited-slip differential to improve the driving experience. A new rear wing sits atop swan neck-style supports and has a surface area almost 10% larger than previously. The 2024 GT-R NISMO goes on sale this Summer starting at $222,885.

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

2024 Ford Ranger Coming Late Summer

The redesigned 2024 Ford Ranger® powered by a standard 270 horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine and more powerful available 315 horsepower 2.7-liter EcoBoost® V6 mated to a 10-speed automatic SelectShift® transmission with an available electronic shift-on-the-fly 4x4 system. The maximum available towing capacity of 7,500 pounds and maximum available payload capacity of 1,805 pounds. Inside  a standard 8-inch digital instrument cluster or available full-screen 12.4-inch cluster with a standard 10.1-inch or available 12-inch center touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC®4A system. The 2024 Ford Ranger orders begin later this month with availability beginning late Summer and late Fall availability for the 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine. 

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

2024 GMC HUMMER EV Omega Edition Starts At $139,995 1st Half of 2024

The 2024 GMC HUMMER EV Omega Edition all-electric truck is a limited edition vehicle available exclusively on the 3X trim for both the 2024 HUMMER EV Pickup and SUV. With a Neptune Blue Matte exterior paint color, pricing for the HUMMER EV Omega Edition Pickup starts at $149,995 for the 24-module battery and the SUV with 20-module battery will start at $139,995. The Omega Edition is expected to begin rolling out of Factory ZERO in the first half of 2024. 

MINI Cooper Electric Starts Production in November

The new MINI Cooper Electric, in its fifth generation, has an output of 135 kW and battery capacity of 40.7 kWh while the MINI Cooper SE has 160 kW and 54.2 kWh battery capacity. Production begins in November 2023.

2024 Acura Integra Type S Starts At $51,995 Next Month

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S, available for limited reservations, is powered by a 320 horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC® engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and starts at $51,995 (including destination fee). Integra Type S offers a flexible 5-door liftback design. Buyers will have the opportunity to reserve one of the first 200 production units on May 11th before it officially begins arriving at dealerships next month.

2024 Kia Carnival MPV Starts At $34,565

The 2024 Kia Carnival MPV, a carryover model with minor packaging changes, is powered by a 290 horsepower 3.5L V6 GDI engine with a 3,500-lb. towing capacity, and a starting price at $34,565 for the LX trim. Standard features include hands-free power sliding doors and available hands-free power tailgate with auto closing, one-button all-door open/close functionality, and modular second- and third-row seat flexibility, including second-row center multi-function free mode seats. For the 2024 model year, the All-Auto Up/Down & Safety Power Windows were removed from the EX trim, but remain standard for the SX and SX Prestige.

Sunday, May 7, 2023

Test Drive: 2023 Toyota Sequoia Platinum

The all-new 2023 Toyota Sequoia in its third-generation hit the roads last summer in 5 trim levels  powered by a 437 horsepower twin-turbo V6 hybrid i-FORCE MAX engine coupled with a 48 horsepower motor generator mated a 10-speed automatic transmission. The base SR5 trim starts at $59,860 (including $1,495 delivery, processing, and handling fee). Above the SR5 are the Limited starting at $66,260, Platinum (above) starting at $72,460, TRD Pro starting at $77,560 and the new top-of the line Capstone grade starting at $76,860. The all-new Sequoia offers up to a 9,520-pound maximum towing capacity, a 26 percent increase over the previous generation model. The Platinum 4X4 in this test drive review has a price of $79,000. Toyota has sold 6,192 Sequoias year-to-date through the end of April. 

Sunday, April 30, 2023

Lucid Air EV Sedans Starting From $87,400

Lucid Air luxury electric vehicles: Air Pure has 480 horsepower starting from $87,400, Air Touring with 620 horsepower starts at $107,400, Air Grand Touring, now being delivered, has 1,050 horsepower with a price from $138,000, while Air Sapphire for $249,000 with 1200+ horsepower is in pre-production and available to order. The range for Air Pure is 410 miles, Air Touring 425 miles, Air Grand Touring 516 miles, Air Grand Touring Performance 446 miles, Air Dream Edition Performance up to 471 miles, Air Dream Edition Range up to 520 miles and Air Sapphire TBA.

The Gravity SUV reservations are just starting for deliveries in 2024.

Produced at Lucid’s factory in Casa Grande, Arizona, deliveries of Lucid Air are currently underway to customers in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Middle East.

2024 Honda HR-V Starts At $25,395 Now

The 2024 Honda HR-V, in its 2nd-generation HR-V, is based on the 11th generation Honda Civic and is larger than its predecessor, with a longer wheelbase and wider stance. The HR-V is powered by a 158 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission. It's on sale now with a starting MSRP of $25,395 for the HR-V LX (including $1,295 destination charge) and with Real Time All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Control™ is $26,895. 

McLaren 750S Starts At $331,740

The new McLaren 750S, powered by a 730 horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine mated to a 7-speed transmission, is available to order now from McLaren retailers. Priced in the US market from $331,740 for the Coupe (including $5,500 transportation and port processing charges and $2,240 Americas Accessory Pack and $352,740 for the Spider.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coming Late This Year

The new 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, with a 0.87 inches longer wheelbase than that of the preceding model, is powered by a 255 horsepower four cylinder turbocharged engine in the E 350 4MATIC and 375 horsepower turbocharged six cylinder powertrain in the E 450 4MATIC, both mated to the 9G-TRONIC transmission. In addition to turbocharging, an integrated starter-generator electric motor, a 48 volt on-board electrical system, adds 22 horsepower. At speeds below 37 mph, the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels and by up to 4.5° against the front steering angle when parking and at speeds above 37 mph, the rear wheels steer up to 2.5° in the same direction as the front wheels. The optional technology package includes the all-round AIRMATIC air suspension system with ADS+ continuously adjustable damping and rear-axle steering. Sales in the Unites States will start late 2023.

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

2024 Porsche Cayenne Starts At $80,850 Arrive Summer 2023

The 2024 Porsche Cayenne, is powered by a 468 horsepower twin-turbo four-liter V8 engine that replaces the previous V6 engine in the new Cayenne S while the standard Cayenne comes with a 348 horsepower 3.0 liter V6 single-turbo engine which also also forms the basis for the powertrain of the Cayenne E-Hybrid which has a new 174 horsepower electric motor combining for 463 horsepower total system output. A new high-voltage battery features increased capacity from 17.9 kWh to 25.9 kWh. EPA range estimates will be available shortly before launch. The redesigned cockpit includes a digital 12.6-inch instrument cluster with a curved and freestanding design and variable display options. A head-up display is available as an option. The standard 12.3-inch central Porsche Communication Management display integrates into the new dashboard and provides access to all the relevant vehicle functions. A 10.9-inch display is now available for the first time for the passenger side with a special layer on the screen ensuring that the driver cannot see this display. The new Cayenne starts at $80,850 (including the $1,650 delivery, processing and handling fee). Coupé from $84,460), the Cayenne E-Hybrid starts at $93,350 (Coupé from $97,350) and the Cayenne S starts at $97,350 (Coupé from $103,750). The Cayenne Turbo GT has an MSRP of $197,950. The 2024 models are available to order now, with U.S. dealer arrival expected starting in the Summer of 2023.

2024 Lincoln Nautilus Arrives In Early 2024

The all-new 2024 Lincoln Nautilus® SUV, powered by a choice of the standard 250 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission or the 2.0-liter turbocharged hybrid engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission with a 100kW electric motor targeted to achieve a 310 total system horsepower. Nautilus arrives in early 2024 with available Lincoln BlueCruise 1.2 hands-free highway driver-assist system. Ordering for the new Nautilus SUV is now open and clients can visit www.lincoln.com for more.

Kia Stinger Tribute Limited Edition Starts At $54,565

The Kia Stinger Tribute Limited Edition, limited to 440 units in the U.S. and 1,000 worldwide, starts from $54,565 (including $1,175 destination) and builds on the Stinger GT2 with a 368-horsepower 3.3-liter turbocharged V-6 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and available with either rear- or all-wheel drive. The Stinger Tribute Edition ends its six-year production run with existing Kia customers and hand raisers among the first to be notified of the Stinger Tribute’s availability at dealers.

Polestar 4 SUV Coupe Coming In Early 2024

The Polestar 4, an electric performance SUV coupĂ© and the second SUV in the brand’s line-up, offers both dual- and single motor versions with single-motor versions featuring rear-wheel drive. The Long range Dual motor, fitted with a 102 kWh battery, has a maximum power output of 544 horsepower from permanent magnet, synchronous motors delivering a preliminary range target of up to 350 miles. A disconnect clutch allows the car to disengage the front electric motor when not needed, to maximize range and efficiency. Polestar 4 launches first in China, with production planned to begin in Hangzhou Bay, China, in November 2023. A full-scale launch for other markets, including in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific, is planned for early 2024 with sales and production ramping up for these markets through the course of that year.

Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680

The Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 full-size luxury SUV, its first all electric series model, has an output of 649 horsepower via its standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive delivering a range of up to 372 miles. In addition to the DYNAMIC SELECT driving program ECO, SPORT, OFFROAD and INDIVIDUAL, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV has the special MAYBACH drive program. It replaces the classic COMFORT program and is designed entirely for maximum driving comfort for the rear passengers. The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV contains Active Ambient Lighting with 253 individually controllable LEDs and 64 individually selectable colors. 


2024 Buick Envista Starts At $29,695 This Summer

The 2024 Buick Envista, a new nameplate offered in Preferred, Sport Touring and Avenir models, is powered by a 136 horsepower 1.2L Turbo engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Envista will offer available safety and driver assistance technologies such as Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The 2024 Envista is expected to enter production next month and be available for customers this Summer. The Envista Preferred trim starts at just $23,495, with Sport Touring starting at $25,195 and Avenir starting at $29,695.

2024 BMW i7 M70 xDrive Coming 2nd Half 2023

The 2024 BMW i7 M70 xDrive, with two electric motors generating a maximum system output of 650 horsepower and an M-tuned chassis, is the third performance model to have an all-electric drive system. The motor powering the rear axle produces a peak output of 483 horsepower working in coordination with the 255 horsepower motor at the front axle. The new BMW i7 M70 xDrive features the updated version of the control/operation system BMW Operating System 8.5 with QuickSelect. Preliminary estimated EPA range is up to 295 miles and MSRP will be released closer to start of production in the second half of 2023.

2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD ZR2 Coming This Fall

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD ZR2, the brand’s flagship heavy-duty off-roader, is offered exclusively in the 2500 Crew Cab configuration with the standard 6.6L gasoline engine or available 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel. The max payload is 3,397 pounds (gas engine), while the max trailering rating is 18,500 pounds, when equipped with the available Duramax Turbo-Diesel. There's a 13.4-inch-diagonal infotainment screen and 12.3-inch-diagonal configurable driver information center. Production of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD ZR2 and ZR2 Bison begins later this Summer. 

2024 Lexus UX 250h Starts At $37,640 This Spring

The 2024 Lexus UX 250h, only offered with a hybrid powertrain in the U.S., combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motor/generators in a hybrid transaxle delivering 181 total system horsepower and is available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. The 2024 Lexus UXh is offered in eight different models, including F SPORT Design and F SPORT Handling. There's a standard 8-inch or optional 12.3-inch touchscreen providing information to the driver and front-seat passengers. All 2024 UXh models come with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which includes Pre-Collision with Pedestrian Detection, Low-light Pedestrian & Daytime Bicyclist Detection, Left Turn Vehicle Intersection Support, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beams, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist and Road Sign Assist. The UX 250h starts at $37,640 (including $1,150 destination, processing and handling fee). The 2024 Lexus UX 250h goes on sale this Spring.

2024 BMW XM Label Red Hybrid Coming This Fall

The 2024 BMW XM Label Red brings together an M HYBRID drivetrain with a high-voltage lithium-ion battery integrated into the underbody and additional power to deliver a maximum system output of 738 horsepower to be the most powerful BMW M road vehicle ever made. The 4.4 liter V8 alone produces 577 horsepower, a 94-horsepower increase over the unit in the standard BMW XM and the electric motor contributes up to 194 horsepower. The BMW XM Label Red has standard Driving Assistant and Driving Assistant Professional, which comprises Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning including lane return with steering assistance, the Evasion Assistant, Alertness Assistant, the Speed Limit Info system, and Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function together with features such as the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, automatic Speed Limit Assist, and Active Navigation. BMW’s Highway Assistant allows attentive hands-free driving at speeds up to 85 mph on limited access highways. Production will begin in August 2023 at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina.

Refreshed 2024 Kia Seltos Starts At $25,715

The refreshed 2024 Kia Seltos, available in LX, S, EX, SX, and new X-Line trim, offers a more powerful 195 horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, which replaces the outgoing 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Base models will continue to be powered by the 146 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with the Intelligent Variable Transmission. On the outside, the Seltos has a larger tiger nose grille and available projection LED headlamps and a new rear lighting design. Inside, is an available panoramic display that integrates the 10.25-inch instrument cluster and 10.25-inch center display. There's available Digital Key 2 Touch that requires an eligible Kia Connect subscription and a compatible smart device with an active data plan. The entry SUV starts at an MSRP of $25,715 (including $1,325 destination fee).

Friday, April 7, 2023

2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Starts At $29,305

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid All-Wheel Drive is powered by the new 196 horsepower fifth generation Toyota Hybrid System equipped with a Lithium-Ion battery, has an EPA-estimated 42 combined miles per gallon rating for all S, SE and XSE grades. All 2023 Corolla Cross models comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 and the new Toyota Multimedia System, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and added USB-C charge ports. The 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid will have a starting MSRP of $29,305 (including $1,335 Delivery, Processing & Handling charge).

2024 Kia EV9 SUV Coming In The 4th Quarter

The all-electric 2024 Kia EV9 three-row SUV, slightly longer than the Telluride SUV with seating for up to seven passengers, a long wheelbase and flat floor, is powered by fourth-generation battery technology available with the standard 215 horsepower 160-kW motor combined with a 76.1-kWh battery that drives the rear wheels. Also, an optional 99.8-kWh battery will be available in a single-motor configuration targeting 300 miles of all-electric range or a 379 horsepower dual-motor torque vectoring all-wheel-drive configuration. The EV9’s standard 800V electrical architecture enables ultrafast recharging on high-speed DC chargers, designed to go from a 10 to 80 percent state of charge in under 25 minutes. The EV9 is expected to debut in the U.S. in Q4 2023, with assembly beginning in 2024. 

Thursday, April 6, 2023

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Starts At $33,290

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness, powered by a 182 horsepower 2.5-liter direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine with a drivetrain engineered for better off-road performance with a revised differential gear ratio and retuned Lineartronic CVT, elevated 9.3-inch ground clearance and exclusive body cladding. Maximum towing capacity more than doubles to 3,500 lb. The Crosstrek Wilderness is equipped with Subaru’s driver-selectable dual-function X-MODE and comes standard with the SUBARU STARLINK 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system. The system offers Snow / Dirt and Deep Snow / Mud modes. The starting price is $33,290 (including $1,295 destination and delivery).

2024 Jeep® Wrangler Arrives Later This Year

The new 2024 Jeep® Wrangler adds a full-float Dana rear axle, an available 100:1 crawl ratio, a new factory Warn winch and increased 5,000-pound tow capability. The powertrain options include a 375 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged PHEV 4xe, a 270 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine, a 285 horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 and a 470 horsepower 6.4-liter V-8. The 2.0- and 3.6-liter gas engines offer both a six-speed manual transmission and an eight-speed automatic transmission. A new interior features available power front seats, standard 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen radio and standard side curtain airbags in the first and second rows. The 2024 Jeep Wrangler will be available in Sport, Willys, Sahara, High Altitude, Rubicon and Rubicon 392 models. Ordering is open now and vehicles will start to arrive in U.S. Jeep dealerships later in 2023. The 2024 Jeep Wrangler will also be available in markets around the world.

2023 Mercedes-AMG C 43 On Sale Now For $61,050

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG C 43 Sedan, offered in Premium and Pinnacle trim levels is now on sale starting at $61,050 (including $1,150 destination and delivery charge), and powered by a 402 horsepower AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9G transmission and comes with standard rear-axle steering, AMG Performance 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque distribution and AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with Adaptive Damping System. 

2025 Ram 1500 REV

The 2025 Ram 1500 REV, available in Tradesman, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Limited and all-new Tungsten trims, will offer a standard 168-kilowatt-hour battery pack with a targeted range of up to 350 miles and an optional 229-kWh large battery pack with a targeted range of up to 500 miles. Both can add up to 110 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW, offering customers quick and convenient charging solutions. The 2025 Ram 1500 REV can tow up to 14,000 lbs. and carry a  payload of up to 2,700 lbs. The all-new Ram 1500 REV XR will follow the introduction of the all-electric Ram 1500 REV.

2024 Hyundai Kona Coming This Fall

The all-new 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric, Limited, and N Line models, are 5.7 inches longer overall on a wheelbase that's increased by 2.3 inches, and it's a full inch wider than its predecessor. The Kona Electric is equipped with the 64.8-kWh battery delivering an electric range of 260 miles based on preliminary Hyundai internal estimates.  Kona offers a choice of two gasoline powertrains, a 147 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Atkinson engine paired with a Smartstream Intelligent Variable Transmission while the N Line and Limited trims offer a 190 horsepower 1.6-liter 4-cylinder direct-injected, turbocharged engine coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The all-new 2024 Kona will arrive at U.S. dealers this summer, and the Kona Electric will be available late Fall.

Tuesday, April 4, 2023

2024 Mercedes‑Benz GLS Coming Later This Year

The new 2024 Mercedes‑Benz GLS models are available in a 375 horsepower GLS 450 4MATIC, a 510 horsepower GLS 580 4MATIC, a 550 horsepower Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 and a 603 horsepower AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9G transmission comes in the Mercedes-AMG GLS63. The new 2024 GLS model range will arrive in U.S. dealerships later in 2023.

Genesis GV80 Coupe Concept

 

The Genesis GV80 Coupe Concept.

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Coming Later This Year

 

The new 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron, Audi’s flagship electric SUV, now gets an EPA estimated range of 300 miles for the Q8 Sportback e-tron with ultra package, an increase of around 30 percent compared to the 2023 e-tron Sportback and features a higher-capacity battery engineered into the existing packaging space. The Q8 e-tron uses the MMI touch response operating system with an upper 10.1-inch and lower 8.6-inch high-resolution displays using haptic touch technology or natural voice control. The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron is anticipated to arrive in U.S. showrooms by Summer of 2023 and will be followed by the introduction of the SQ8 e-tron later this year.

2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 For $96,666

The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170, limited to not more than 3,300 total units, which produces 1,025 horsepower is now open for orders at a price of $96,666 (excluding destination and fees).

All-New Hyundai Sonata Launches In The Second Half of 2023

The new Hyundai Sonata, the eighth-generation of the midsize sedan, is powered by a choice of a gasoline-powered 2.5L engine, 2.5L turbo engine and 2.0L hybrid electric with a 2.5L turbo developed especially for the N Line. It's equipped with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5, Rear Cross-traffic Collision-avoidance Assist, Blind-spot Collision Assist, Safe Exit Warning, Safe Exit Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist , Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Navigation based Smart Cruise Control and Highway Driving Assist. Sonata has a panoramic curved display that combines both 12.3-inch driver information clusters and 12.3-inch AVN infotainment system. The vehicle expects to launch in global markets in the second half of this year.

Thursday, March 23, 2023

2023 Toyota Mirai Fuel Cell EV Starts At $49,500

The 2023 Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), in its second-generation, is larger and built on the Rear-Wheel Drive GA-L platform that allows for an additional hydrogen fuel tank over the first generation car. The FCEV driver fills the tank with non-toxic compressed hydrogen gas which generates its own electricity onboard from hydrogen, with water as the only emission delivering an EPA estimated range of 402 miles on the Mirai XLE grade. All new Toyota Mirai will include up to $15,000 of complimentary hydrogen with a purchase or lease. Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ system comes standard on all 2023 Mirai including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Lane Tracing Assist. The 2023 XLE grade has a starting MSRP of $49,500. The Limited grade has a starting MSRP of $66,000.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 and GLB 35 Coming Late This Year

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 and GLB 35 compact SUV is powered by a 302 horsepower AMG-enhanced 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® DCT 8G transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The GLA 35 and GLB 35 are equipped standard with a 48-volt mild hybrid system featuring a second generation belt-driven starter-generator that provides a temporary power boost of 13 horsepower under certain driving conditions. New for 2024 is newly styled front fascia with the AMG emblem now on the hood and light signatures at the front and rear with revised LED headlights and taillights. The GLA 35 and GLB 35 are available with the optional next generation Parking package, which supports parallel parking and offers a 360-degree visualization in camera-assisted parking using 3D images from the available Surround View system. Both models arrive in U.S. dealerships later in 2023. 

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

2024 Lexus NX 250 Starts At $40,205

The 2024 Lexus NX, largely a carryover model from 2023. The NX 250 is powered by a 203 horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with start/stop functionality mated to an eight-speed transmission and starts at $40,205 (including $1,150 delivery, process & handling). The NX 350, starting at $43,965, has a 275 horsepower 2.4L turbo engine also with an eight-speed transmission and for the 2024 model year F SPORT Handling is available on the NX 350. The Lexus NX 350h, starting at $43,805, pairs the 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators for 240 combined system horsepower and a combined EPA-estimated 39 MPG. The NX 450h+ (pictured above), starting at $58,655, has an EPA-estimated 37-mile range on electric power only, made possible by the high-capacity lithium-ion battery and when combined with the hybrid transaxle, a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivers an EPA-estimated combined 84 MPGe. For the 2024 model year, F SPORT Handling is available on the NX 350. 

Kia EV9 3-Row SUV

The Kia EV9, three-row electric flagship SUV, will make its digital global premiere in late March. 

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe Coming Later This Year

The new 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe, at 187.5 inches, is 1.2 inches longer and 0.2 inches higher than its predecessor, powered by the same 255 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and electrified mild hybrid powertrain as its GLC 300 sibling. The interior is equipped with the sporty AMG Line as standard, and a 12.3-inch high-resolution driver display and 11.9-inch central display. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe will arrive in U.S. dealerships later in 2023.

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV On Sale Now

The all-new, all-electric 2023 Lexus RZ 450e, the brand’s first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle, with 308 total system horsepower rating from a 71.4 kWh battery delivering an EPA-estimated range rating of up to 220 miles when equipped with 18” wheels and an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 115/98/107 (city/highway/combined). When utilizing 20” wheels, the RZ has an EPA-estimated MPGe of 102/87/95 with an EPA-estimated range of up to 196 miles. RZ 450e utilizes DIRECT4, an all-wheel drive system first introduced with the 2023 Lexus RX, which features a rear eAxle coupled with the engine and front motor. The 2023 RZ 450e is built in Toyota City, Japan, and is on sale now in limited quantities.

Saturday, March 11, 2023

Subaru of America President/CEO Tom Doll To Assume New Role

Tom Doll, President and Chief Executive Officer of Subaru of America will step down from the day-to-day management of the company and will assume the role of Corporate Advisor based at the Camden, New Jersey headquarters effective April 1st . It comes after more than 40 years with Subaru of America, including roles as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer from 2009, and subsequently President from 2013 and CEO from 2018. He led Subaru of America to 12 consecutive years of sales records from 2008 to 2019 when the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic shut down production. Doll also served as Chief Financial Officer, Vice President of Business and Strategic Planning, Director of Accounting, Director of Treasury Operations and Manager of Treasury Operations. Here are a few of many interviews with my friend and one of the auto industry's great leaders:

2021 Tom Doll interview.  

2013: Tom Doll interview. 

2010 Tom Doll interview. 

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV Starts At $48,250 This Spring

The new generation 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV,  Mercedes-Benz USA best-selling model, is powered by a new, more powerful 255 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a second-generation integrated starter generator and 48-volt mild hybrid system that provides up to an additional 23 horsepower. The interior features a new floating 12.3-inch digital instrument panel along with an 11.9-inch central display that rises from the center console. The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV will start from $48,250 (including $1,150 destination and delivery charge). The new generation 2023 GLC SUV will arrive in U.S. dealerships in the Spring.

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV Starts At $79,050 This Spring

The all-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, the second fully-electric SUV from Mercedes-Benz based on the premium-class electric architecture, comes in EQE 350+ SUV, EQE 350 4MATIC SUV and EQE 500 4MATIC starting at $79,050 (including $1,150 destination and delivery charge) and will arrive at U.S. dealerships this Spring. The EQE SUV improves range using a heat pump and an intelligent powertrain management system that takes heat from the electric drive (inverter and electric motor) and the high-voltage battery to heat the interior rather than drawing on battery power for the heating system, thus increasing the range. The all-new intelligent powertrain management system monitors at 160 times per second, to determine if the front electric motor is necessary. If not, a clutch disconnects or re-engages the front motor in 100 milliseconds to reduce drag and improves range. The top-of-the line EQE 500 4MATIC starts at $96,350.

2024 Subaru Outback SUV and Legacy Sedan Coming This Fall

The 2024 Subaru Outback SUV starting at $30,190 (including $1,295 destination & delivery) and Legacy sedan starting at $25,985 are powered by a 182 horsepower 2.5-liter BOXER engine paired with a Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission) with 8-speed manual shift mode and steering wheel paddle shift control switches. The Outback Base is equipped with the STARLINK dual 7.0-inch center information display with the upper 7-inch touchscreen operating audio controls while the lower 7-inch touchscreen controls for climate, EyeSight, X-MODE, and other vehicle systems. Priced at $40,655, the Outback Onyx Edition XT upgrades to the 260 horsepower 2.4-liter turbo BOXER engine as well as 180-Degree Front View Monitor, 8-way power front passenger seat, heated rear seats (outboard seat position), and a full-size spare tire. This year, the Outback Wilderness receives updated front styling. Both models will begin arriving at Subaru retailers this Fall.

Friday, February 24, 2023

2024 Subaru Impreza Starts At $24,085

The all-new 2024 Subaru Impreza, the sixth-generation Impreza which debuted at 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, is powered by a 152-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine in the Base and Sport trims and a 182 horsepower 2.5-liter BOXER engine in the RS model, and are mated to a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with the Sport and RS trims featuring an 8-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters that allow the driver to control the transmission via eight pre-set ratios. The Impreza comes as a 5-door hatchback and is available in Base, Sport and new RS trim levels. The 2024 Impreza has a starting price of $24,085 (including $1,090 destination & delivery charge).