Wednesday, September 13, 2023

2024 Ford F-150® Pick-Up Coming In Early 2024

The new 2024 Ford F-150® truck, available starting early 2024, is powered by a new standard 2.7-liter EcoBoost® engine or available 3.5-liter EcoBoost, 3.5-liter PowerBoost, 3.5-liter High Output (F-150® Raptor®), 5.0-liter V8, 5.2-liter supercharged V8 (F-150® Raptor R®) with a maximum available towing capacity of 13,500 pounds. Right now, 10 percent of all F-150 trucks sold are hybrids. Ford plans to double the mix of hybrid trucks manufactured for the 2024 model year. The initial starting MSRP on PowerBoost® Hybrid, available on XLT through Platinum Plus will now match the starting MSRP on the 3.5-liter EcoBoost® engine.  

Lotus Emeya Coming Next Year

The new all-electric Lotus Emeya, the company’s first four-door hyper-GT, has a high-power dual motor set-up that delivers a top speed of more than 155mph. It can add 93 miles of range with approximately five minutes of charge using a 350kW DC fast charger, as well as boost range up to 80% within 18 minutes. Production is expected to begin in 2024 with further information on Emeya will be released in Q4. 

2024 INFINITI QX60 Starts At $50,845 Now

The 2024 INFINITI QX60, powered by a 295 horsepower 3.5-liter direct-injected V-6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission can tow up to 6,000 lbs. and starts at $50,845 MSRP (including $1,195 destination and handling charge). Standard features include Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning and High Beam Assist. The 2024 INFINITI QX60 is on sale now.

Volkswagen ID. GTI Concept EV

The Volkswagen ID. GTI Concept, based on the ID. 2all concept introduced in March, is 100 percent electric, 161.6-inches long overall on a 102.4-in wheelbase sitting on 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 245/35 performance tires and has a 12.9-inch infotainment touch display. 

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class

The Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class, the forerunner for an entirely new all-electric segment of entry-level vehicles at Mercedes-Benz, coming in a four-door coupe, a shooting brake and two SUVs. The next-generation 800 V electric-drive system drivetrain has a range of more than 466 miles and rapid charging of up to 248 miles in 15 minutes. The 175 kW permanently excited synchronous machine is paired with a two-speed transmission. The MO360 production system allows Mercedes-Benz to produce electric, hybrid and petrol models on the same production line and to scale the manufacturing of electric vehicles in line with market demand. Mercedes-Benz aims to achieve net carbon neutrality along the entire value chain in its fleet of new vehicles in 2039.

All-Electric MINI Cooper and Countryman

The all-electric MINI Cooper, available in the Cooper E with a 135 kW/184 horsepower electric motor delivering a range of 190 miles determined in the WLTP test cycle and the Cooper SE with an output of 160 kW/218 horsepower with 250 mile range. Within the new MINI family, “Cooper” refers to all MINI 3-door and 5-door models, and also the MINI Convertible. It is no longer used as an engine specification. The new all-electric MINI Countryman has grown by 5.1 inches in length and is powered by a 150 kW/204 horsepower electric motor in the MINI Countryman E delivering a range of 287 miles and 230 kW/313 horsepower of electric motors of the all-wheel drive MINI Countryman SE delivering a range of 269 miles for the MINI Countryman SE ALL4. In addition, the MINI Aceman will premiere in April 2024 as a crossover in the premium small car segment. 

2024 Chrysler Pacifica Offers Hybrid Variant

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica, with seating available for up to eight passengers, is powered a 287 horsepower 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine mated to a 9 speed automatic transmission and 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid's dual-motor eFlite electrically variable transmission paired with a modified version of the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 gasoline engine delivers more than 80 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) in electric-only mode, an all-electric range of more than 30 miles and a total range of more than 500 miles. The Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid is eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit. Pacifica delivers available all-wheel-drive capability paired with Stow ‘n Go seating and available Stow ‘n Vac system. 

2024 INFINITI QX80 Starts At $76,045 Soon

The 2024 INFINITI QX80 flagship SUV, powered by a 400-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 engine with a 7-speed automatic transmission rated to tow up to 8,500 pounds, arrives in showrooms this month with a starting MSRP of $76,045 (including $1,895 destination and handling charge) for the QX80 LUXE and $79,195 with All-Mode® Four-Wheel Drive. The QX80 PREMIUM SELECT is $80,680 and $83,780 with 4WD. The QX80 SENSORY $87,730 and $90,830 with 4WD. Standard connectivity features include a widescreen, high-definition 12.3-inch INFINITI InTouch display that includes navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay®, USB-based Android Auto™ compatibility and Amazon Alexa® that can play music, place calls, control compatible smart home devices and more, with only voice commands.

2024 Hyundai Elantra Gets New Fascias This Fall

The 2024 Hyundai Elantra, powered by a 147 horsepower 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder engine, 201 horsepower 1.6L Inline 4-cylinder turbo engine, both mated to a Smartstream® Intelligent Variable Transmission , 276 horsepower 2.0L turbo engine (for the N) or a 139 horsepower total output 1.6L engine combined with hybrid electric motor. New for 2024 are a new shark-nose front, new rear fascia and thinner LED daytime running lights. New and standard on all trims are rear side airbags, new rear seat belt reminder, steering wheel haptic feedback added to Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. The 2024 Elantra goes on sale this Fall.

2024 Hyundai Sonata Adds AWD This Winter

The 2024 Hyundai Sonata midsize sedan is powered by a choice of a 191 horsepower 2.5L engine, 290 horsepower 2.5L turbo engine or 180 horsepower 2.0L hybrid electric mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai TRACtion (HTRAC) AWD system mated to the 2.5L engine is now available on Sonata for the first time actively distributing torque between the front and rear wheels, depending on road conditions and driving situations. The Sonata is 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, available Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, and available Highway Driving Assist. The new 2024 Sonata goes on sale this Winter. 

Thursday, August 31, 2023

2024 Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Starts At $148,550 In Q2 of 2024

The new 2024 Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is powered by an electric motor generating 174 horsepower combined with a 591 horsepower four-liter V8 twin-turbo engine delivers total system output of 729 horsepower. Compared to its predecessor, the new Cayenne E-Hybrid models have a significantly larger 25.9 kWh high-voltage battery and the new 11-kW on-board charger can reduce the charging time to less than 2.5 hours using a suitable wall charger, even with the increased battery capacity. The new Turbo E-Hybrid Cayenne variant is the second of three hybrid models for the Cayenne that Porsche will introduce this year. The Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid has an MSRP of $148,550 (including the $1,650 delivery, processing and handling fee), while the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Coupe has an MSRP of $153,050. The Turbo E-Hybrid models can be ordered now and are expected to reach U.S. dealers in Q2 of next year. 

2024 Mercedes-Benz EQB Coming With Updates 1st Half of 2024

The updated the all-electric 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQB 250+ delivers 188 horsepower with a range of 271 to 333 miles, the EQB 300 4Matic has 225 horsepower with a range of 246 to 278 miles and the EQB 350 4Matic with 288 horsepower has the same range of 246 to 278 miles. When the charging cable is plugged in, the charging process starts automatically and customers do not need to additionally authenticate themselves. The vehicle and charging station communicate directly via the charging cable. As an optional seven-seater, the two third row seats can fit people up to 5.4 ft. tall or child seats. With three display styles (classic/sporty/discreet), three modes (navigation/assistance/service) and the 10 color worlds of ambient light, the graphics of the screens can be individualized. The 2024 EQB will arrive at U.S. dealerships first half of 2024. The current model EQB starts around $54,000.

Rolls-Royce Amethyst and La Rose Noire Droptail Roadsters

Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail (above), a roadster body type with removeable hardtop, is one of four from Rolls-Royce Coachbuild that began in 2017 with Sweptail, a two-door coupé, followed by the Boat Tail in 2021, and La Rose Noire Droptail (below). Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a wholly owned subsidiary of the BMW Group and is a completely separate, unrelated company from Rolls-Royce plc, the manufacturer of aircraft engines and propulsion systems.



2024 Volkswagen Atlas Starts At $39,075

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas, powered by a 269 horsepower four-cylinder turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, comes in SE, SE w/ Technology, Peak Edition SE w/ Technology, SEL, Peak Edition SEL, and SEL Premium R-Line trim levels starting at $39,075 (including the $1,350 destination charge). MSRP for the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport 2.0-liter starts at $38,065. The seven-seater Atlas lineup adds the Atlas Peak Edition trimline for 2024. Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is available across the model lineup.

Lamborghini Lanzador Concept Previews 2028 Vehicle

The Lamborghini Lanzador concept has a power electric motor on each axle delivering a peak power of over one megawatt. The all-wheel drive offers active e-torque vectoring on the rear axle for cornering. Lamborghini calls their fourth model concept, the Ultra GT, in a new car segment. The Lanzador gives an insight into the series model to be built from 2028.

Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase Mulliner

The Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase Mulliner, Bentley's new luxury flagship, is powered by a 550 horsepower 32-valve dual twin-scroll turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission powering all four wheels. At speeds below 37 mph the All Wheel Steering has the effect of ‘shortening’ the wheelbase, reducing the turning circle, and increasing agility in tight urban environments making parking noticeably easier. The rear compartment, available in 4+1 and 4-seat configurations, features the Bentley Airline Seat specification with 22-ways of adjustment. The auto climate seat technology senses occupant temperature and surface humidity and then determines whether to apply heat, ventilation or both simultaneously to keep the occupant at optimum thermal wellbeing. The new Bentayga EWB Mulliner joins the Flying Spur Mulliner, Continental GT Mulliner and Continental GT Convertible Mulliner.

Sunday, August 27, 2023

2025 Ford Mustang® GTD For $300,000 Late 2024, Early 2025

The all-new 2025 Ford Mustang® GTD, inspired by the Mustang GT3, in a carbon fiber Mustang body, is powered by an estimated 800 horsepower supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine sent to the rear wheels through a carbon fiber driveshaft connected to an 8-speed rear transaxle for near 50/50 weight distribution between the front and rear. Production of Mustang GTD will be limited, and pricing is expected to begin at approximately $300,000 and will be available in late 2024, early 2025.

New All-electric 2024 Acura ZDX Coming Early Next Year

The new all-electric 2024 Acura ZDX, offered as the ZDX A-Spec in both single-motor (rear-wheel-drive) and dual-motor (all-wheel-drive) configurations, is expected to start in the $60,000 range. The ZDX Type S, with an estimated 500-horsepower with an EPA range rating of 325 zero-emission miles with a dual-motor AWD powertrain is expected to start in the $70,000 range. ZDX features a combined 22-inches of high-definition digital screen real estate with a standard Precision Cockpit Driver Information Cluster (11-inches) and Center Information Screen (11.3 inches) with an intuitive touchscreen interface and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. Pre-sale activities for ZDX will start later this year, with first client deliveries slated for early 2024. 

2024 Toyota GR Supra Starts At $46,635 This Fall

The 2024 Toyota GR Supra is powered by a choice of a 255 horsepower 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine or a 382 horsepower 3.0-liter twin scroll turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine mated to a 8-speed automatic transmission. A 45th Anniversary Edition, available in a choice of fiery orange Mikan Blast or icy white Absolute Zero, is equipped with an elevated gloss black rear spoiler, 19-inch matte black wheels and is available in a choice of Manual or Automatic Transmission. All models have a double joint-type MacPherson front and multi-link independent rear suspension, Normal, Sport, and Individual modes, sport calibrated electronic power steering, and dual rear exhaust outlets. The 2024 GR Supra is expected to arrive on dealer lots this Fall starting at $46,635 (including $1,095 dealer processing and handling) for the GR Supra 2.0 model and $55,595 for the GR Supra 3.0 model.

2024 Nissan Altima Starts At $26,825 Now

The 2024 Nissan Altima, restyled for the 2023 model year, is powered by either a 188 horsepower 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder direct-injection engine mated to a Xtronic transmission for front-wheel-drive models (182 horsepower with AWD) delivering 27 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 32 mpg combined for the front-wheel-drive S and SV grades, and 27 mpg city, 37 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive SR and SL models, or an available an 248 horsepower 2.0-liter Variable Compression Turbo engine. Nissan Safety Shield® 360 which includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist and Rear Automatic Braking is standard on every Altima. The 2024 Nissan Altima, on sale now, starts at $26,825 (including $1,095 destination and handling).

Monday, August 14, 2023

Test Drive: 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition $48,515

Richard Saxton test drives and reviews the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition. The Toyota 4Runner, powered by a 270-horsepower DOHC 4.0-liter V6 engine with 278 lb.-ft. of peak torque mated to a five-speed ECT-i automatic transmission, has reached the 40-year mark with the 2023 model year and, to celebrate, Toyota is offering a 4WD-only 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition with a limited production of 4,040 vehicle available for the U.S. market. On sale now starting at $48,515 (including $1,395 delivery, processing, and handling fee). As of mid-August 2023, about 2,600 have been sold. Based on the SR5 Premium grade 4Runner, the 40th Anniversary Edition is available in White, Midnight Black Metallic and this Barcelona Red Metallic exterior color. 

Click to watch video

Sunday, August 13, 2023

2023 Jeep® Gladiator Rubicon FarOut For $71,790 In Q3

The limited-edition 2023 Jeep® Gladiator Rubicon FarOut edition, powered by a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine mated to the TorqueFlite 8HP75 eight-speed automatic transmission, marks the the end of Gladiator EcoDiesel production with 1,000 vehicles for the 2023 model year. The 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon FarOut edition is priced at $71,790 (including $1,795 destination), and available for ordering through the end of September 2023, with deliveries beginning in the third quarter of 2023.

2024 Subaru Forester Starts At $28,190 This Fall

The 2024 Subaru Forester, offered in Base, Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited and Touring trims, is powered by a 182 horsepower 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive engine paired to a Lineartronic® CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) delivering an EPA-estimated 33 mpg on highways. The compact SUV will begin arriving in Subaru retailers this Fall with a starting price of $28,190 ( including $1,295 destination & delivery).

2024 Nissan Pathfinder Starts At $37,145 Now

The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder, offered in  S, SV, Rock Creek, SL and Platinum trims, is powered by a 284 horsepower 3.5L V6 engine on the S, SV, SL, Platinum and 295 horsepower on the Rock Creek, mated to a 9-speed automatic with manual shift mode paddle shifters and electronic shift-by-wire drive selector. The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder is on sale now with a starting MSRP of $37,145 (including $1,335 destination and handling charge). Every Pathfinder features standard Nissan Safety Shield 360®, NissanConnect® with an 8-inch touchscreen (9-inch available). Available advanced technology includes a 12.3-inch digital dashboard, a 10.8-inch head-up display and class-exclusive Intelligent Around View® Monitor.

2024 Jeep® Grand Cherokee L

The 2024 Jeep® Grand Cherokee L three-row SUV, available in Laredo, Limited, Overland and Summit trims, is powered by a Pentastar 290 horsepower 3.6-liter V-6-engine that tows up to 6,200 pounds or an available 357 horsepower 5.7-liter V-8, both mated to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers driver-assist systems, 360-degree surround view and night vision cameras, 10-inch digital screens, Uconnect 5, windshield Head-up Display, digital rearview mirror, rear-seat monitoring camera and a premium 19-speaker McIntosh audio system. Grand Cherokee L Limited gets new standard 18-inch polished / painted aluminum wheels.

Wednesday, August 9, 2023

All-electric 2025 Cadillac ESCALADE IQ Starts At $130,000 Next Summer

The first-ever all-electric 2025 Cadillac ESCALADE IQ, with up to 750 horsepower (with driver-selectable Velocity Max, Cadillac estimate) offers a Cadillac-estimated 450 miles of range from a 24-module Ultium battery producing more than 200 kWh of available energy. A 800-volt DC fast charger provides up to 100 miles of range in 10 minutes of charge time. The 2025 ESCALADE IQ offers up to 8,000 pounds of towing capability (Cadillac estimate) There are 2 drive units with 1 motor each that produces 680 horsepower / 505 kW in Normal Mode and 750 horsepower / 560 kW in Velocity Max. There's a 55-inch-total-diagonal LED display powered by a next generation Snapdragon®12 Cockpit Platform from Qualcomm Technologies. An available Executive Second-Row Seating package includes stowable tray tables, 12.6-inch-diagonal personal screens, a rear command center screen, dual wireless phone charging pads, USB-C and HDMI ports, massaging seats and headrest speakers. Regular production of the ESCALADE IQ begins next Summer at GM’s Factory ZERO Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center in Michigan, with domestic and globally sourced components. Pricing starts at around $130,000 including destination charges.

2024 Kia Sportage Starts At $28,415

The 2024 Kia Sportage, powered by a 187 horsepower 2.5L 4-cylinder 16V DOHC CVVT with Hydraulic Lash Adjuster gasoline direct injection engine mated to an 8-speed Automatic transmission, receives rear (second row, seat-mounted) airbags and LED (projection type) headlights as standard. The SX AWD trim level is no longer available and the line-up includes the X-Pro and X-Pro Prestige. Towing capacity is 2,500 lbs. with trailer brakes. The starting MSRP for the LX trim is $28,415 (including $1,325 destination) and goes up to $39,215 for the X-Pro Prestige. The LX trim has remote keyless entry with alarm and panic function and an immobilizer but does not have Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance-Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go or spare tire. The EX, which starts at $30,415, has those features. 

2024 Lexus RX 350 Starts At $49,950

The 2024 Lexus RX 350, offered in Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F SPORT Handling and F SPORT Performance grade levels starting at $49,950 (including $1,350 destination, preparation and handling fee), is powered by a 275 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to an eight-speed Direct Shift-8AT automatic transmission in the RX 350 (FWD/AWD). The RX 350h (AWD), starting at $51,800, has a hybrid motor coupled with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine with 246 total system horsepower. The RX 450h+ Plugin Hybrid Electric Vehicle, starting at $70,080, is powered by a high-capacity lithium-ion battery paired with a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine (shared with NX), delivering a manufacturer-estimated combined 83 MPGe rating and an EPA-estimated 35-mile driving range rating on electric power only. RX 500h F SPORT Performance AWD, starting at $63,800, has a 271 horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four that’s matched to a six-speed automatic transmission and integrated Power Control Unit. An 80-kW eAxle consisting of an inverter and motor provides power to the rear wheels for a DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system of 366 horsepower.

2024 Nissan TITAN Pickup Starts At $47,665

The 2024 Nissan TITAN, powered by a 400 horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 gasoline engine, is on sale now with a starting MSRP of $47,665 (including $1,895 destination and handling) for the TITAN SV Crew Cab 4x2. TITAN adds the $2,980.SV Bronze Edition Package with black and bronze visual enhancements, including bronze 20-inch wheels, a gloss-black front grille surround and black front bumper, a sport bar and Bronze Edition floor mats. TITAN XD is built on a frame and chassis with an extended 151.6-inch wheelbase, about 12 inches longer than TITAN models, and features a 6.5-foot bed, and is available only with four-wheel drive with a starting price of $53,825 and going up to $67,735 for the TITAN XD Platinum Reserve Crew Cab 4x4. Nissan Safety Shield® 3604, a suite of six advanced driver-assist systems, is also standard on every TITAN.

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Coming In Spring 2024

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, powered by a 326 horsepower i-FORCE MAX turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, is making its return to the U.S. market after a three-year hiatus. Land Cruiser’s new i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain comes standard on all grades and pairs a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a 48-hp electric motor integrated into an eight-speed transmission feeding off a 1.87-kWh NiMH battery pack. The new Land Cruiser is 4.4 inches narrower and 1.2 inches shorter with an approach angle up to 31.0 degrees and max departure to 22.0 degrees while breakover angle reaches 25.0 degrees. Ground clearance is up to 8.7 inches. Limited to 5,000 units for the first two months of production, Land Cruiser will be offered in a First Edition grade that includes two new two-tone paint colors and additional off-road equipment and will be built in Toyota Motor Corporation’s Tahara and Hino plants in Japan and arrive in the U.S. in the Spring of 2024. Manufacturer’s suggested retail pricing will start in the mid-$50,000 range and be announced closer to its on-sale date.

2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE Starts At $110,450 Now

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV, with two dynamic electric motors producing up to 677 horsepower to a fully variable all-wheel drive, has AMG air suspension, rear-axle steering and AMG-specific roll bar stabilization. AMG Night Package and AMG Night Package Plus are available exterior design packages with exterior accents finished in gloss black and black chrome. The 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE is now available in U.S. dealerships and starts at $110,450 (including $1,150 destination and delivery charge).

2024 Lexus RX 450h+ Starts At $70,080 Late 2023

The 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ is powered by a high-capacity lithium-ion battery paired with a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine (shared with NX) for a manufacturer-estimated combined 83 MPGe rating and 35-mile driving range rating on electric power only. Using the maximum charging current of 240V and under ideal conditions, the Lexus RX 450h+ can be fully charged in approximately two-and-a-half hours using the standard 6.6 kW Onboard Charger. The 2024 Lexus RX 450h+comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 and an available driver monitor system. The starting MSRP is $70,080 (including Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee) and will be available by the end of 2023.

2024 Mazda CX-5 Starts At $30,675 This Fall

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, the brand’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S., is powered by the 187 horsepower Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with cylinder deactivation paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode and sport mode and coupled with G-Vectoring Control Plus continuously monitoring weight distribution and shifting power to the appropriate wheels. New for 2024 is the inclusion of i-Stop technology, which improves EPA estimated fuel economy to 26 mpg city, 31 mpg freeway and 28 mpg combined, a two-mpg combined improvement. The CX-5 is now available with new colors including Platinum Quartz or Zircon Sand Metallic exterior premium paint color when opting for the newly available Carbon Turbo. All 2024 CX-5 models will retain standard i-Activ all-wheel drive in the U.S. when they arrive in dealerships nationwide this Fall with a starting MSRP of $30,675 (including $1,375 for destination and handling).

Monday, July 31, 2023

Mopar ‘23 Dodge Challenger and Charger R/T Scat Pack Widebody In October

The Mopar ‘23 Dodge Challenger and Charger R/T Scat Pack Widebody models, powered by a 485 horsepower392 HEMI® V-8 mated to the Tremec 6-speed manual transmission with the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission is available on the Mopar ‘23 Challenger and standard on the Mopar ‘23 Charger. There will be limited production of 440 units (220 of each model). The Mopar ’23 Special Edition Package is $3,995. Production starts in September with deliveries expected to begin in October.

2025 Volvo EX30 Starts At $34,950

The all-new, fully electric 2025 Volvo EX30 with the Single Motor Extended Range rear wheel drive variant option gives an estimated range of 275 miles between charges. The Twin Motor Performance all-wheel drive variant pairs the battery with an additional e-motor on the front axle for 422 horsepower and starts at $34,950.

2024 Subaru BRZ tS Arrives First Quarter 2024

The 2024 Subaru BRZ tS, equipped with STI-tuned front and rear Hitachi® dampers to maximize its light weight, ultra-low center of gravity and precision handling, is powered by a 228 horsepower 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine paired with a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission. For the first time, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is now standard on a Subaru model equipped with a manual transmission. Pricing for the new 2024 Subaru BRZ tS will be announced later this year and arrives in Subaru retailers in the first quarter of 2024.

2024 Toyota Camry Starts At $26,420 In September

The 2024 Toyota Camry midsize sedan, in its eighth design generation, is available in LE, SE, SE Nightshade, XSE, or XLE grades. The 203 horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is available in a choice of Front or All Wheel Drive across all grades and the 301 horsepower 3.5-liter six-cylinder engine is available for the XSE and XLE grades or standard on the performance-tuned TRD model. Both engines come paired to a direct-shift eight-speed automatic transmission. Camry Hybrids pair a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for a net combined output of 208 horsepower for a manufacturer-estimated 52 MPG combined rating on the LE grade. The 2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid is expected to arrive in September of 2023 for $26,420 in the FWD LE grade. The LE AWD will start at $27,820, Hybrid LE will start at $28,855 and the V6 powered Camry models will start at $33,485 MSRP with the TRD model.


Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, GLC 63 S E Preformance

The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is powered by a 416 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with electric exhaust gas turbocharger and the GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE combines the AMG 2.0-liter turbo engine with an Electric Drive Unit on the rear axle to deliver a 671 horsepower combined system. Rear-axle steering, AMG Performance 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque distribution, AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9G transmission with wet start-off clutch and AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with Adaptive Damping System are standard.

2024 Mazda CX-50 Starts At $31,675

The 2024 Mazda CX-50, available in eight packages with a 187 horsepower Skyactiv-G 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine in CX-50 2.5 S models, or a  256 horsepower Skyactiv-G 2.5L Turbocharged four-cylinder engine in CX-50 2.5 Turbo models. Both engines are mated to a Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission. The CX-50 comes standard with i-Activ All-Wheel Drive technology and Mazda Intelligent Drive Select. CX-50 2.5 S models can tow up to 2,000 pounds when equipped with Mazda genuine towing accessories. Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select has a starting MSRP of$31,675 (including $1,375 for destination and handling) and the Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo starts at $39,375.

2024 Chevrolet Traverse Coming In Early 2024

The all-new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, in LS, LT, Z71 and RS trims, is powered by an all-new 315 horsepower 2.5L turbocharged engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive, including an off-road-capable twin-clutch AWD system for the Z71. The new Traverse has a max trailering rating of up to 5,000 pounds. Eight-passenger seating is standard on LS, with second- and third-row bench seats and seven-passenger seating is standard on LT, Z71, and RS, with the eight-passenger configuration available on LT. Seven-passenger configurations include second-row captain’s chairs with SmartSlide, which eases access to the third row, even when a child seat is installed. One-touch folding second row and power-folding third-row standard on RS. The all-new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse will be available early 2024. 

All-New Hyundai Santa Fe To Make Debut

The all-new fifth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe midsize SUV, its first full model change since 2018, boasts a curved display that connects the 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment system. The all-new Santa Fe will make its world premiere in August.

Wednesday, July 12, 2023

2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition Can Be Ordered Later This Year


The 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition, with additional 1.5-inch lift, 12.2-inch ground clearance, 35-inch tires and upgraded hardware, has previously been powered by either a 308 horsepower 3.6L V-6 engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission or a 181 horsepower 2.8L Turbo-Diesel with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition can now achieve a 38.2-degree front approach angle, a 26.9-degree breakover angle and an optimized 26.0-degree departure angle. The 2024 Canyon AT4X AEV Edition is expected to be available for customer orders later this year.

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe Coming Early Next Year

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe is powered by a 255 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and the CLE 450 4MATIC Coupe has a 375 horsepower 3.0-liter inline-six engine, both mated to a 9G-TRONIC transmission. The available engines are mild hybrids with an integrated starter generator and 48-volt electrical system. At 191 inches long, 73.2 inches wide and 56.2 inches high, the new two-door is significantly larger than the C-Class Coupe. The interior features a free-standing 12.3-inch, fully digital driver display and 11.9-inch, driver-oriented central display. A new EASY-ENTRY function ensures easy access to the rear cabin. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE will arrive in U.S dealerships in early 2024. 

2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Performance Hybrid

The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T, the electrified performance vehicle from Dodge, has 288 horsepower offering 32 miles of all-electric range via a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery, as well as 77 MPGe and 360 miles of total range. The PowerShot feature supplies a burst of 30 horsepower, resulting in a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.6 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system adjusts power automatically between the 1.3-liter engine that powers the front axle and the electric motor that drives the rear wheels. The R/T system is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. A high-power inverter and 7.4-kW charging module allow for a full battery charge to be reached in approximately 2.5 hours using a Level 2 charger. Dodge Hornet R/T offers Sport Mode and Hybrid, Electric and E-Save hybrid driving modes.

Tuesday, July 4, 2023

2024 Lexus ES Starts At $43,190 This Summer

The 2024 Lexus ES 250 AWD has a 2.5-liter L4 engine and the ES 350 is powered by a 302 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, both mated to an 8-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission. The ES 300h’s 2.5-liter, four-cylinder gas engine running on the Atkinson cycle is coupled with an electric motor and a hybrid transaxle for a combined 215 total system horsepower and an EPA-estimated MPG rating of 43/44/44 (city/highway/combined). A lithium-ion battery is located underneath the back seat, freeing up trunk space, and improving the front-to-rear weight distribution to help with better handling. The new 2024 ES is expected to arrive in dealerships this Summer starting at $43,190 (including $1,150 destination fee).

2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive Starts At $50,895 In October

The new 2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive all-wheel-drive Sports Activity Vehicle is powered by a 312 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine mated to a 7-speed double clutch Steptronic transmission with M Sport Boost. The new BMW X1 M35i xDrive is BMW’s first model to feature the updated version of the control/operation system BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9 to make selecting and operating various functions and digital services more intuitive and comfortable. The US launch of the new 2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive will begin in October with a starting price of $50,895 (including $995 destination and handling).

Lotus Eletre SUV Starts At $104,747 In Europe Late Summer

 

The Lotus Eletre hyper-SUV, available in Eletre, Eletre S and Eletre R trims, offers two all-electric powertrains that delivers a range of up to 373 miles with Level 4 autonomous driving capability, fast-charging from 10-80 per cent in just 20 minutes, and acceleration from 0-62mph in 2.95 seconds on the flagship R model. The 800-volt, 112kWh Lithium-ion battery pack, compared to conventional 400-volt systems, reduces the operating current by half for the same power output. First customer deliveries started in China in March, and will follow in global markets, including Europe and the UK, later this Summer. Available to order now, priced from £89,500 ($113,593) in the UK and €95,990 ($104,747) in Europe. 

2024 Audi RS 6 Avant Starts At $126,895 This Fall

The new 2024 Audi RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 performance models are powered by a 621 horsepower 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine. The 2024 RS 6 Avant performance starts at $126,895 (including $1,095 destination charge) while the 2024 RS 7 performance starts at $128,895. The standard 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus also includes a new blinking shift indicator in manual transmission mode that changes the RPM display from green to yellow to red, blinking in an arrangement identical to that used in motorsport to indicate the optimal time to change gears. The new Bronze edition is limited to 125 units only available in the U.S. The 2024 Audi RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 performance are slated to be on sale this Fall.

Friday, June 30, 2023

Test Drive: 2023 Hyundai Palisade

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade three-row SUV is powered by a responsive Atkinson-cycle 291 horsepower 3.8-liter V6, dual CVVT, direct-injected engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with a multi-plate torque converter and offers both two-wheel and HTRAC® four-wheel-drive configurations. The Palisade is loaded with features including turn signal, front and rear cameras along with an overhead view monitor. The streamlined, non-distracting driver and center display is simple and easy to read. Second and third row passengers get pampered with reclining and heated seats. The ride is smooth, cabin is quiet and roomy. A key feature is the legroom trade off between second and third row passengers.

The list of safety features is long: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, Lane Following Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist.

The Palisade looks like a large SUV but doesn't feel like it behind the wheel as this test drive review reveals. Pricing starts at $37,235 with this Canadian Urban Edition in the mid-$50,000 range.

Click to watch.