Monday, February 12, 2024

2025 Kia Carnival Refreshed Arrives This Summer

The refreshed 2025 Kia Carnival, in LX, LXS, EX, SX, SX Prestige trim levels, is powered by an available 287 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 GDI engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A curved panoramic dual-display features full digital instrumentation with an available 12.3-inch cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment display integrated into one single panel. Carnival has “Slide-Flex” seating for 8-passengers including a sliding second row center seat so the front passenger can have easy access to a baby or child riding in it. Removable second-row seats and fold-in-floor third-row seats continue to be a Carnival staple (second row seats not removable in SX-Prestige). The Carnival Hybrid is newly available for 2025 with a 1.6-liter turbo-hybrid engine paired with a 54kW motor and a 6-speed automatic transmission for combined output of 242 horsepower. It's expected to go on sale this Summer.

2025 Kia K5 Gets More Power

The refreshed 2025 Kia K5 midsize sedan, in LXS, EX, GT-Line (in front or all-wheel drive) and turbocharged GT trim levels, is powered by a new 191 horsepower 2.5-liter normally aspirated engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that replaces 1.6T and adds 11 horsepower. The GT’s powertrain for 2025 remains 290 horsepower mated to an 8-speed dual clutch transmission that drives the front wheels. There's a new available single-pane curved display that houses the 12-inch instrument screen and a new standard 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation unit, larger cupholders and a wireless charging pad, along with USB-C charge ports front and rear.

MINI Cooper Starts At $29,945 This Summer

The fifth generation MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S 3-door models are powered by 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engines for US customers. The Cooper variant is expected to arrive at dealers in early Fall with specifications and performance details to be made available closer to US launch. The MINI Cooper S has a 201 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The MINI Cooper S destined for the US starts production in March with a US base MSRP of $33,195 (including $995 destination and handling). The MINI Cooper for US customers starts production in July with a US base MSRP of $29,945.

2025 Porsche Taycan EV Starts at $101,395 This Summer

The 2025 Porsche Taycan all-electric sedan and Taycan Cross Turismo, with available with an off-road package, have increased 105 kWh Performance Battery Plus capacity and the Taycan Turbo S develops up to 938 horsepower. All Taycan variants can charge from a 10 to 80 percent state of charge in 18 minutes under ideal conditions. Lane Change Assist, heated steering wheel, Ambient lighting, electrically folding exterior mirrors with mirror surround lighting, Porsche Intelligent Range Manager, a new cooling system, smartphone tray for wireless charging, electric charging ports on the driver and front passenger side, adaptive air suspension and Drive Mode switch are all now standard features. MSRP starts at $101,395 for the 2025 Taycan (including $1,995 delivery, processing and handling fee) and goes up to $213,695 for the 2025 Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo. The upgraded sedan versions are scheduled to arrive at Porsche Centers in the U.S. from the Summer, while the Cross Turismo models are expected to follow in the Fall.

2025 Lincoln Aviator® Coming This Summer

The new 2025 Lincoln Aviator® SUV with an updated contoured mesh grille, is powered by a standard 400 horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, paired with a 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission and offers an available Air Glide Suspension. The all-new Lincoln Digital Experience and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology is available on Aviator for the first time. Aviator features an easy-to-control and larger 13.2-inch touchscreen over the center stack and a new 12.4-inch digital cluster screen and will continue to offer the available Revel® Ultima 3D Audio System, which features 28 speakers. The 2025 Lincoln Aviator will be available this Summer. 

Mercedes-Benz eSprinter Starts at $71,866

The all-new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter electrified large van on a 170'' wheelbase is equipped with the largest battery available delivering electric range (based on a simulation using the WLTP cycle) up to approximately 273 miles and on a city cycle is up to about 329 miles. The rear-wheel-drive eSprinter offers a cargo capacity of 488 cubic feet and with a permissible gross vehicle weight of up to 9,370 lbs.. The all-new eSprinter is now available for order at U.S. dealerships starting from $71,866.

2025 BMW Z4 M40i Now Offers 6-speed Manual Transmission

The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i roadster is powered by a 382 horsepower TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine mated to 8-speed Steptronic transmission or an available 6-speed manual transmission.

2025 BMW 430i Coupe Starts At $51,695 In March

The new 2025 BMW 4 Series Coupe (pictured) and BMW 4 Series Convertible, featuring newly designed headlights, rear lights with Laserlight accents (standard on M440i models), are powered by an updated 255 horsepower 2-liter inline 4-cylinder engine in the 2025 430i Coupe (starting at $51,695 including $995 destination and handling), and an updated 386 horsepower 3-liter 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine with 48V mild hybrid technology in the 2025 M440i Coupe (starting at $65,245). The 2025 BMW M440i xDrive Convertible starts at $75,245. The 473 horsepower 6-cylinder M engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission is in the new BMW M4 Coupe ($80,095), the 503 horsepower powertrain via an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic is in the BMW M4 Competition Coupe ($84,195) and 543 horsepower in the M4 Competition xDrive Coupe ($89,295) and Convertible ($96,295). Worldwide market launch gets underway in March.

Thursday, February 1, 2024

2025 Ford Explorer Starts At $41,220 In The 2nd Quarter

The new 2025 Ford Explorer, with a redesigned interior in Active, ST-Line, high-performance ST and Platinum trim levels, offers a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine as standard or an available 400-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. There's a 13.2-inch touchscreen and the 12.3-inch digital cluster. Ordering for the new Ford Explorer opens today, with a starting MSRP of $41,220, (including destination and delivery charges). Vehicles are expected to start arriving in dealerships in the second quarter of 2024.

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

2024 Kia Sorento Starts At $33,365

The 2024 Kia Sorento LX (FWD) starts at $33,365 (including $1,375 destination charges). Sorento HEV and PHEV models are expected later in the year as 2025 models.

Click for more info.

2025 Mazda CX-70 Coming This Spring

The first-ever 2025 Mazda CX-70, offers a choice of e-SkyActiv G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbo engine with M-Hybrid Boost, or an e-SkyActiv G PHEV (plug-in hybrid) powertrains. The Mazda CX-70 is a mid-size SUV that's larger than the Mazda CX-5 and the Mazda CX-50 while similar in size to the Mazda CX-90 which offers 3rd-row seating for up to 8 people. The Mazda CX-70 is coming Spring 2024.

2024 Subaru Solterra Starts At $46,340

The 2024 Subaru Solterra all-electric SUV, available in Premium, Limited, and Touring trim levels and 8.3 inches of ground clearance, gets a redesigned steering wheel with regenerative braking force paddle switches, improved charging performance and standard roof rails with a static load capacity rated up to 700 pounds. New for this year, the 2024 Solterra can replenish its battery from 10% to 80% in as little as 35 minutes, with a state of charge indicator displaying the estimated time to 80% or 100%. Thanks to an upgraded battery conditioning system, the 2024 Solterra can charge at temperatures below freezing significantly faster than its predecessor, up to 80 minutes faster in certain conditions. The starting price is $46,340 (including $1,345 destination and delivery) before applicable federal, state, or local tax credits. The 2024 Solterra will qualify for applicable federal tax credits of up to $7,500 for some owners.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata

 

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata, with a front engine, rear-wheel drive layout, is powered by a 181 horsepower Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine routed through a six-speed transmission. All MX-5 Miata models have a new, larger 8.8-inch infotainment display. New features are an available Asymmetric limited-slip differential, a new steering rack for reduced friction, and the Miata Club MX-5 adds DSC-Track Mode to provide drivers an additional option for closed circuit driving. The MX-5 Miata Sport 6MT starts at $30,150 (includes $1,165 for destination and handling).

2024 Honda Prologue Starts At $48,795 In March

The all-new 2024 Honda Prologue, the first all-electric Honda SUV, will begin arriving in Honda dealerships in March, with a 296 mile EPA range rating. Two-wheel drive models are powered by a 212 horsepower front-mounted single motor and all-wheel drive (available on EX and Touring), which adds an additional motor in the rear generates 288 horsepower. The Prologue EX starts at $48,795 (including $1,395 destination charge), before the application of any government incentives or tax credits to leasees.

2024 Porsche Macan 4 Starts At $80,450

2024 Porsche Macan 4 and Macan Turbo, with a 3.4 in. longer wheelbase than the previous model, have fully electric all-wheel drive powertrains with up to 630 horsepower and 833 lb.-ft. from two electric motors and a 100 kWh battery and up to 270 kW charging performance. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent within approximately 21 minutes at a compatible fast-charging station under ideal conditions. The 402 horsepower Macan 4 is $80,450 (including a $1,650 delivery, processing and handling fee), while the 630 horsepower Macan Turbo is $106,950 with a maximum towing capacity of up to 4,400 pounds. The Macan is available with optional rear-axle steering, with a maximum steering angle of five degrees. EPA range figures will be available closer to delivery date. Available to order now, with delivery in the second half of the year. 

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Starts At $35,345 This Spring

The all-new 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV, powered by a 277 horsepower 2.5L turbocharged, direct-injected mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission or an available is a 1.6L turbocharged hybrid powertrain generating 178 horsepower (231-hp total system output). All trims are available in either FWD or AWD, with the exception of the XRT, which is available exclusively with AWD.  The all-new 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV starts at $35,345 (including $1,395 freight charges) for the entry level FWD SE trim. Santa Fe 2.5L turbo models are arriving at dealers now, with hybrid models arriving this Spring.

Click for more info.

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan Starts at $63,450 In First Quarter

The new generation 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan arrives in U.S. dealerships in Q1 2024 with the 255 horsepower E 350 4MATIC Sedan starting at $63,450 (including $1,150 destination and delivery charge) and the 375 horsepower E 450 4MATIC Sedan starts at $69,250. 

Click for more info. 


2025 Chevrolet Equinox Coming This Year

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, offered in LT, RS and ACTIV trims and 2.3 inches wider than the outgoing model, is powered by a 175 horsepower 1.5L turbo DOHC DI VVT with automatic stop/start matched with a continuously variable transmission in front-wheel-drive configurations or an eight-speed automatic transmission with available all-wheel-drive. The new Electronic Precision Shift is on the steering column. Standard Chevy Safety Assist includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking, Following Distance Indicator and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. Equinox is trailering-capable, with a maximum capacity of up to 1,500 pounds when equipped with available AWD. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox will be available in 2024. Additional details, including pricing, will be available closer to the start of production.

Thursday, January 11, 2024

2024 Nissan Rogue Starts At $29,685 Soon

The 2024 Nissan Rogue, powered by a 201 horsepower turbocharged 1.5 liter 3 cylinder engine mated to an Xtronic transmission, will be on sale soon starting at $29,685 (including $1,365 destination and handling). The 2024 Rogue is the first Nissan available with Google built-in, featuring Google Assistant, Google Maps and more from Google Play on a 12.3-inch color touchscreen (SL, Platinum grades), and all can be used without pairing or plugging in a phone. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard on all Rogue grades (wired on S/SV, wireless on SL/Platinum).

Thursday, January 4, 2024

2023 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors delivered 2.6 million vehicles in the U.S. in 2023, up 14 percent year-over-year. 

Toyota Motor North America reported year-end 2023 U.S. sales of 2,248,477 vehicles, an increase of 6.6 percent on a volume basis compared to 2022.

Ford U.S. sales were 1,995,912 vehicles in 2023, up 7.1 percent over 2022.

FCA US LLC (Stellantis: Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep®, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reports sales of 1,527,090 vehicles for the full 2023 calendar year, a decrease of 1 percent. 

American Honda 2023 sales of 1,308,186 was up 33 percent over 2022 with Honda brand sales of 1,162,531, up 31.9 percent and Acura sales of 145,655, up 42 percent. 

Nissan Group calendar year 2023 U.S. sales of 898,796 is an increase of 23.2 percent compared to the prior year with Nissan Division sales 834,097 up 22.2 percent, INFINITI sales 64,699 up 38.8 percent.

Hyundai USA sold 801,195 vehicles in 2023, an 11 percent increase compared with 2022.

Kia America’s 2023 total sales of 782,451 was up 13 percent year-over-year and 12-percent over the previous record set in 2021. 

Subaru of America ended calendar year 2023 with 632,086 vehicle sales, a 13.6 percent increase compared with calendar year 2022.

Volkswagen of America sold 329,029 vehicles in 2023, an increase of 9.3 percent over 2022. Separately, Audi of America sold 228,550 vehicles last year, up 22percent from 2022.

Mercedes-Benz USA 2023 total sales of 351,746 was up by 0.2 percent compared to 2022 with electric vehicles accounting for 43,202 or 15 percent of overall passenger vehicle sales in 2023.

Mazda North American Operations reported full-year sales totaled 363,354 vehicles, an increase of 23.2 percent compared to 2022. 

BMW full year 2023 sales of 362,244 vehicles is an increase of 9 percent from 2022. 

Volvo Cars’ US sales for 2023 amounted to 128,701 cars, up 26 per cent compared to the full year of 2022. 

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Thursday, December 21, 2023

FLASHBACK: GM's Rick Wagoner (1998) and FORD's Jac Nasser (1999)


Rick Wagoner, former General Motors Chairman, CEO, COO and CFO over his 32 years at GM until 2009, discusses his career, GM and the auto industry with Richard Saxton in a 1998 CarBiz interview.






Jac Nasser, joined Ford Motor Company in 1968 as a financial analyst and on January 1st, 1999, became Ford's President, CEO and board member until 2001. In this 1999 interview, Richard Saxton and Nasser discuss Ford's acquisition of Volvo, industry consolidation, Ford's profits and strategy, his visit to Ford's new Southern California offices and the overall auto industry.

2024 Genesis G70 Starts At $42,695 Soon

The 2024 Genesis G70 sport sedan powered by new 300 horsepower 2.5L turbocharged inline four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission starts at $42,695 (including $1,195 freight) and the 365 horsepower 3.3L twin-turbocharged V6 gasoline engine with Variable Gear Ratio Steering strats at $51,145. New features include a touch-type climate control display and frameless rear-view mirror. The Digital Key is paired with the Genesis Intelligence Assistant app and can be used with Apple Wallet and Samsung Pass. The vehicle intelligently recognizes the driver and automatically authenticates them, loading their customized vehicle preferences. The 2024 G70 sport sedan will be arriving at U.S. retailers in the coming weeks.

2025 Lexus UX 300h Coming In The New Year

The 2025 Lexus UX 300h compact hybrid crossover, offered in eight different models, including F SPORT Design and F SPORT Handling, is powered by the fifth-generation Lexus Hybrid System which pairs the inline four-cylinder 2.0-liter gas engine with two motor-generators through a continuously variable transmission delivering 196 total system horsepower. A new hybrid transaxle has been adopted, enabling higher output of the front (83 kW) and rear (30 kW) motors. The UX 300h can be equipped with E-Four, Lexus’ all-wheel drive system which places a permanent synchronous motor at the rear axle. Standard on all UXh models are 18-inch run-flat tires. For 2025, a larger 12.3-inch multi-information display becomes standard on all Premium and F SPORT models while a 7-inch multi-information display is standard on the Base model. Pricing for the 2025 Lexus UX 300h will be announced in the new year with the vehicle going on sale shortly after.

2024 Subaru WRX Strats At $33,855 In Early 2024

The 2024 Subaru WRX, in its fifth generation coming in Base, Premium, Limited, TR, and GT trim levels, is powered by a 271 horsepower, 2.4-liter turbocharged Subaru BOXER engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission on all trim levels (except the GT which has the Subaru Performance Transmission) and with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The WRX has a tablet-style 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia Plus system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The 2024 Subaru WRX will arrive at retailers in early 2024 with a starting price of $33,855 (including$1,120 destination and delivery).

2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R

The new 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R is powered by a 720 horsepower 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine with 640 lb.-ft. of torque. 

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

2024 Lexus RZ EV Starts At $55,150 This Month

The 2024 Lexus RZ comes in 300e starting at $55,150 (including $1,150 DPH) and 450e starting at $59,850. The RZ 300e with a total system horsepower rating of 201 delivering an EPA-estimated range rating of 266 miles when equipped with 18” wheels and an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 137/112/125 (city/highway/combined). With 20” wheels, the EPA-estimated range rating is 224 miles and EPA-estimated MPGe rating is 114/96/105. The RZ450e has a total system horsepower rating of 308 with an EPA-estimated range rating of 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 450e has an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 102/87/95 with an EPA-estimated range rating of 196 miles. The RZ goes on sale this month.

McLaren GTS

The new McLaren GTS, replacing the GT, is powered by a 626 horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine mated to a 7 Speed transmission. The GTS is underpinned by the carbon fiber MonoCell II-T monocoque chassis and the roof panel is recycled carbon fiber along with the rear upper structure contributing to low weight and low center-of-gravity. Inside is a 10.25-inch digital instrument display with a 7-inch central touchscreen infotainment system.

2024 INFINITI Q50 Starts At $44,200 This Month

The 2024 INFINITI Q50 is powered by a 300 horsepower 3.0-liter VR-series twin-turbo V6 engine mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission in the LUX and SENSORY trims while the RED SPORT 400 delivers 400 maximum horsepower and adds steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The 2024 INFINITI Q50 arrives in showrooms this month with a starting MSRP of $44,200 (including $1,150 destination and handling charge).

Cadillac VISTIQ Three-row SUV

The Cadillac VISTIQ three-row SUV, slotted between LYRIQ and ESCALADE IQ,  is the third electric vehicle Cadillac has confirmed this year and fifth to join its EV family after last month Cadillac confirmed the 2025 OPTIQ as the entry point for the brand’s EV lineup in North America. 

2024 Lexus GX Starts At $64,250 In Early 2024

The 2024 Lexus GX, with standard full-time 4WD, is powered by a 349 horsepower 3.4L twin-turbo V6 engine paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission to deliver an EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating of 21 MPG. The 2024 GX shares the GA-F platform introduced on the current-generation LX 600 and has an 8,000 lb. towing capacity for Premium, Premium+ and Overtrail grades with the standard tow hitch. The 2024 GX starts at $64,250 (including delivery, processing and handling fee) and is offered in Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, and all-new for Lexus, Overtrail and Overtrail+ grade levels. A newly developed double-wishbone front suspension is paired with a multi-link rear suspension. The GX comes with a standard 14-inch, high-definition touchscreen. The 2024 GX is expected to arrive at dealerships in early 2024 with a hybrid powertrain available in the U.S. at a later date. 

Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE Roadster Coming in 2024

The new Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE roadster will be powered by a combined 805 horsepower coming from a Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine and 201 horsepower permanently excited synchronous electric motor integrated with an electrically shifted two-speed transmission and limited-slip rear differential. Standard AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization and active rear-axle steering provides a wide spread of driving characteristics from comfortable to highly dynamic. The 2024 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE arrives at U.S. dealerships in 2024.

2024 Kia Sportage Hybrids Start At $29,615

The 2024 Kia Sportage hybrid (HEV), in LX, LX AWD, EX AWD and SX Prestige AWD trim levels, is powered by a 177 horsepower 1.6L Turbo gasoline direct injection with a 2,000 lb. towing capacity and starts at $29,615 (including $1,325 destination). The 2024 Sportage plug-in hybrid (PHEV), powered by a 177 horsepower 1.6L Turbo gasoline direct injection comes in X-Line AWD starting at $40,815 and the  X-Line Prestige AWD at $45,315. 

2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Starts At $34,010

The all-new 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric, in its second-generation, is nearly six inches longer and features a larger cabin and 33 percent more cargo area with up to 261 miles of EPA-estimated range. The 133 horsepower SE FWD model starts at $34,010 (including $1,335 delivery charge). The SEL and Limited have 201 horsepower electric motors. The Kona Electric comes standard with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster seamlessly integrated with Hyundai’s next-generation 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction-Turning and Direct-Oncoming, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Safe Exit Warning, Rear Occupant Alert, and second-row seat belt reminders are all standard.

Sunday, December 10, 2023

2024 Hyundai Sonata Starts At $28,615

The 2024 Hyundai Sonata, with a refreshed exterior and interior, over-the-air updates and a new HTRAC all-wheel-drive model, is powered by a 191 horsepower Smartstream 2.5L GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine connected to a 6-Speed Automatic Transmission or a 290 horsepower Smartstream 2.5L Turbo GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve Inline 4-cylinder engine mated to a Smartstream 8-speed electronic automatic w/OD lock-up torque converter. The 2.0L integrated hybrid drivetrain choice has a combined 192 horsepower. The 2024 model introduces HTRAC All-Wheel Drive, now available on the SEL trim. The Sonata SEL Standard with the 2.5L GDI powertrain has an MSRP of $28,615 (including $1,115 delivery) and the Sonata SEL 2.5L GDI equipped with the new HTRAC All-Wheel-Drive system has an MSRP of $30,115. Sonata N Line is priced at $36,065. The Sonata Hybrid starting at $31,915 is anticipated to arrive in Q1 2024.

Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe 4MATIC+

Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe is powered by a 443 horsepower AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with turbocharging via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor, and is mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9G transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive. The 23 horsepower 48-volt integrated starter generator provides support at lower engine speeds. The driver display can be configured with "Classic," "Sport" and "Supersport" display styles while the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs choices are "Slippery," "Comfort," "Sport," "Sport+" and "Individual".

THK LSR-0 5 Electric Prototype

The THK LSR-0 5 electric prototype, a crossover four-seater coupe, is a fully functioning electric vehicle designed in partnership with SN DESIGN PLATFORM under the leadership of globally renowned designer, Shiro Nakamura. The LSR-05 platform features a four-wheel steering system through the integration of two THK original 93 kW (800V specification) variable-flux in-wheel electric motors in the rear and a 220 kW (800V specification) electric motor in the front. THK is a Japanese technology company specializing in component development and manufacturing for the mobility industry and beyond.

Genesis X Gran Berlinetta VGT Concept For Gamers

The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta VGT Concept, revealed as full-scale model at the Gran Turismo World Series World Finals in Barcelona, is powered by a 1071 horsepower hybrid race-spec drivetrain with an 870 horsepower front mid-mounted Lambda 11 V6 engine comgined with a 210 horsepower Yasa E motor. The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta Vision Gran Turismo Concept, created as part of Polyphony Digital’s Vision Gran Turismo series, will be available to race in the game from January 2024. Gran Turismo 7 players who watch the Manufacturer’s Cup broadcast in GT7 will receive early access to the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta VGT Concept as a gift in January.

Friday, December 1, 2023

Tesla Cybertruck Has Debuted, Coming In 2024

The 5 passenger 223.7 inch long fully electric Tesla Cybertruck has finally debuted and is available to order for a fully refundable $250 deposit. Coming first in 2024, the 600 horsepower all-wheel drive Cybertruck for $68,890 with an estimated range of 340 miles and the 845 horsepower Cyberbeast model for an estimated $96,390 with a projected  range of 320 miles. The rear wheel drive Cybertruck is priced at an estimated $49,890 with an estimated 250 miles range when it become available in 2025. Prices assume IRA Federal Tax Credits up to $7,500 for Rear-Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive. The Cybertruck can carry a 2,500 pound payload and has a towing capacity of 11,000 lbs. and ground clearance of 17.44 inches. There's an 18.5” center touchscreen display and a 9.4” rear touchscreen. Charging speed is up to 128 miles in 15 minutes. Other features include an ultra-hard stainless steel exoskeleton to reduce dents and damage and armour glass that can resist the impact of a baseball travelling at 70 miles an hour. It can provide 11.5 kilowatts to power a home during a grid outage and the front light bar illuminates up to 525 yards. The basic vehicle warranty is 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first, and the battery and drive unit have an 8 year or 150,000 mile warranty whichever comes first. Expecting to produce 200,000 to 250,000 Cybertrucks per year and reported orders now at nearly 2 million, it could be a four to five year wait to get yours. 

More info at Tesla website

2025 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Coming Late In 2024

The 2025 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban, with fresh exterior and interior designs, including new signature lighting and a larger best-in-class 17.7-inch-diagonal infotainment screen, comes in LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier and High Country trims. A 5.3L gas V-8 remains the standard engine for LS, LT, RST, Z71 and Premier. The 6.2L V-8 is standard on High Country and available on RST, Z71 and Premier. The new 305 horsepower 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel Duramax2 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission offered on all retail trims, including Z71 for the first time will be available in 2025 after initial launch. It has an all-new 17.7-inch-diagonal central touchscreen. The all-new 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban go on sale late next year. Additional details, including pricing, will be announced closer to the start of production. 

All-New 2024 Toyota Tacoma Starts At $32,995 This Month

The all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma, completely redesigned from the ground up and built on the TNGA-F global truck platform shared with Tundra, Sequoia and Land Cruiser, is powered by a 278 horsepower turbocharged i-FORCE 2.4-liter engine paired with the new eight-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. and there's an available i-FORCE MAX hybrid produces up to 326 horsepower. Maximum towing capacity is 6,500 lbs. on SR5 i-FORCE and TRD PreRunner and XtraCab grades, while its maximum payload increases on the new model to 1,710 lbs. for i-FORCE Max models. The all-new 2024 i-FORCE Tacomas are expected to arrive at Toyota dealerships this month with a starting MSRP of $32,995 (including $1,495 dealer processing and handling fee). The i-FORCE MAX models expected to arrive in the Spring of 2024 and MSRP will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

2024 Acura TLX Starts At $51,195 Now

The refreshed 2024 Acura TLX, with a new front fascia, is powered by a 272 horsepower 2.0-liter Turbo engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission while the TLX Type S has a 355 horsepower 24-valve dual overhead cam 3.0-liter V6 engine with direct-injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger paired with a sport-tuned 10-speed automatic transmission. Now delivering more standard features, the simplified lineup includes the TLX with Technology Package starts at $46,195 , available A-Spec sport appearance package starts at $51,195 and line-topping high-performance TLX Type S at $58,195. 

2024 Porsche Panamera Starts At $101,550 In Spring 2024

The third generation of the 2024 Porsche Panamera offers four different E-Hybrid powertrains including the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid with a completely revamped 187 horsepower 4.0 liter twin-turbo V8 paired with an electric motor powered by a 25.9 kWh battery mated to an updated 8-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission for 670 horsepower. At launch, Panamera and Panamera 4 models will have a  348 horsepower 2.9 liter V6 turbo engine. The third generation offers a two-valve, two-chamber air suspension, LED Matrix Design headlights, drive mode switch on the steering wheel, a cooled smartphone compartment with inductive charging and an improved air particulate filter with GPS-based automatic recirculation. The 2024 Porsche Panamera starts at $101,550 (including a $1,650 delivery processing and handling fee) while the Panamera 4 begins at $108,550. Both models are expected to reach U.S. Porsche Centers in Spring 2024. Specifics on the U.S. pricing and arrival timing of the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid will be announced at a later date.

MINI Countryman S ALL4 Starts At $39,895 In May 2024

The new MINI Countryman S ALL4, the largest MINI, is powered by a 241 horsepower two-liter four-cylinder turbo engine feeding the all-wheel drive system. A new feature of MINI is the option of semi-automated driving on multi-lane routes which allows the driver to take his hands off the steering wheel at speeds of up to 37 mph. When changing lanes, the assistant system helps by identifying the gaps in traffic that are necessary on the way to the exit. This then brings the vehicle to optimal speed and automatically initiates the lane change. US customers can choose Classic, Favoured, and John Cooper Works trim styles. The all-new MINI Countryman S ALL4 will have a starting base price in the US of $39,895 (including $995 destination and handing).  Production for the US market begins March 2024 with first units expected to arrive at dealers in early May 2024.

2024 Hyundai Elantra N Arrives In January

The refreshed 2024 Hyundai Elantra N, powered by a new 276 horsepower 2.0T direct-injected engine specially developed for N models and paired with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, gets redesigned front bumper fascia and grille, dual-projector LED headlamps, 19-inch forged alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires and rear bumper fascia and diffuser. The refreshed Elantra N will arrive at dealers beginning in January 2024.

Saturday, November 18, 2023

2023 LA Auto Show: Vehicle Highlights

There were few introductions and many missing nameplates at the 2023 LA Auto Show, when in past years there could be as many as 20 World or North American debuts. Significant introductions were the Lucid Gravity, all-new 2025 Subaru Forester, all-new 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and refreshed Kia Sorento. (Click on names or scroll down to posts for details).

Vehicles to check out: 

The all-new 2025 Ford Mustang® GTD (above) powered by a 5.2L V8 engine with 8-speed dual-clutch transmission targeting more than 800 horsepower. 

The 2024 Chevrolet E-Ray Corvette (above), as a 2 seater coupe or convertible, is powered by a 495 horsepower 6.2L V8 DI engine with 8-speed dual clutch transmission and comes in 1LZ Coupe starting at $106,295 (including $1,395 destination freight charge), 2LZ Coupe at $111,795 and 3LZ Coupe at $117,245. The 1LZ eAWD coupe starts at $107,990 with the convertible models starting at $114,990.


Click to read details: Kia EV9 EV

Among manufacturer vehicle displays missing from the 2023 LA Show are BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, Buick and GMC. All the Stellantis brands, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, not on display, apparently due to the costly UAW strike. Porsche, which has traditionally had its own exhibit hall because of its massive Southern California sales performance, skipped the LA Show this year apparently focused on its Rennsport Reunion 7 celebrating 75 years. 

2023 LA Auto Show Interview: 2025 Lucid Gravity SUV

The 2025 Lucid Gravity all-electric SUV is expected to have a range of more than 440 miles range via a dual motor electric powertrain producing more than 800 horsepower with a starting price under $80,000. Lucid Group, Inc (NASDAQ ticker: LCID) is headquartered in Newark, California, with its manufacturing facility in Arizona.

Lucid Senior Vice President of Product & Chief Engineer Eric Bach discusses the new all-electric Lucid Gravity with Richard Saxton at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Click to watch interview.

2023 LA Auto Show Interview: 2024 Kia Sorento

The refreshed 2024 Kia Sorento, available in FWD or AWD in LX, S, EX, SX, and SX-P trims, is powered by a 191 horsepower 2.5-liter I-4 GDI engine matched to an 8-speed automatic transmission in the LX and S trims . The X-Line and X-Pro have a 281 horsepower a 2.5-liter turbocharged I-4 GDI matched to an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. The 2024 Sorento is expected to go on sale in the first quarter of 2024 with the X-Line available on EX and above and X-Pro on SX-P. Sorento HEV and PHEV models are anticipated to hit dealerships later next year as 2025 models.

Kia Sorento Product Strategy Manager Mark Savino discusses 2024 Kia Sorento mid-cycle refresh and new EV3 and EV4 concepts introduced at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Click to watch interview.

2023 LA Auto Show Interview: 2025 Subaru Forester

The sixth-generation all-new 2025 Subaru Forester SUV, available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring trim levels, is powered by a 180 horsepower 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine mated to a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It features a 10% stiffer chassis, standard Advanced EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology on all trims, and available 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia system, wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ and the debut of a kick sensor-activated hands-free power rear gate. The 2025 Forester arrives in Subaru retailers nationwide in Spring 2024.  

Subaru Car Line Planning Manager Bill Stokes discusses the all-new 2025 Subaru Forester with Richard Saxton at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Click to watch interview.