Friday, November 23, 2018

2019 Mercedes-AMG G 63 Coming Early Next Year For $148,495


The new 2019 Mercedes-AMG G 63 is powered by a 577 horsepower Handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed transmission and features AMG Ride Control sports suspension, AMG DYNAMIC SELECT with five drive modes & three additional off-road modes, AMG performance exhaust with adjustable flap system and distinctive side pipes, and a completely new interior featuring COMAND® Navigation, 12.3" central display and 64-color ambient lighting. The 2019 Mercedes-AMG G 63 starts at $148,495 (including $995 destination and delivery) in early 2019. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz G 550 with a 416 horsepower 4.0L V8 biturbo engine is currently available starting at $125,495.

2019 Porsche Macan Starts At $50,950 In Summer 2019


The 2019 Porsche Macan is powered by a 248 horsepower 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine with a seven-gear PDK dual-clutch transmission for a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.3 seconds, or 6.1 seconds with Launch Control if equipped with the optional Sport Chrono package, which migrates to an updated design for this model year. The new model can accelerate to a top track speed of 142 mph. New features for 2019 include a new three-dimensional LED light panel at the rear, standard LED headlights, and a revamped interior design, including a larger, 10.9-inch full HD touch screen with the latest version of Porsche Communication Management. Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) is still available as an option, offering improved lighting while cornering. The 2019 Macan also gains the new Traffic Jam Assist function as a component of the optional adaptive cruise control system. When so equipped, the Macan can accelerate, brake, and keep itself within a marked lane at speeds up to 40 mph. The new Macan is expected at U.S. dealers by Summer 2019 with a starting MSRP of $50,950 (including $1,050 for delivery, handling and processing).

2020 Toyota Corolla Sedan On Sale This Spring


The all-new 12th-generation 2020 Toyota Corolla Sedan follows the new Corolla hatchback that arrived earlier this year and rides on a 106.3-inch wheelbase, like its predecessor. The L, LE, and XLE grades will use the current 1.8-liter engine and the XSE and SE grades will be powered by a completely-new smaller and lighter 169 horsepower 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force direct-injection inline four-cylinder engine mated to a new Dynamic-Shift CVT (continuously variable transmission) or the all-new 6-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission). All models are equipped standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including a pre-collision system, radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steer assist, lane tracing assist (available on CVT-equipped models), automatic high beams, road sign assist and blind spot monitor is a standard or optional feature, depending on model grade. The 2020 Corolla will be available at dealerships Spring 2019.

2020 BMW M340i Arrives Next Summer


The 2020 BMW M340i and M340i xDrive sedans are 2.9 inches longer than their predecessors, 0.6 inches wider and 0.5 inches taller with a 1.6 inch longer wheelbase and increased track widths of +1.7 inches front and +0.8 inches rear and powered by a 382 horsepower 3.0 liter, six-cylinder, inline engine equipped with the standard 8-speed Sport Steptronic transmission. A new, single, twin-scroll turbocharger with an integral, compact, steel exhaust manifold and impellers that weigh approximately 25% less than those of preceding models, builds boost pressure more rapidly. Standard are a rain sensor, automatic headlights, a hands-free phone system and three-zone automatic climate control with independent control of the temperature and ventilation settings for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. Also standard are the Active Guard, Frontal Collision warning with City Collision Mitigation and Lane Departure Warning, the latest version of which also alerts the driver when a cyclist is detected. Making its debut in the new BMW 3 Series sedan in 2019 is the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, an intelligent, digital character that responds to the prompt “Hey BMW”.

The new seventh generation, M Performance 3 Series will make its world debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show Nov. 30 – December 9 with the M340i xDrive model and both the BMW M340i and M340i xDrive sedans will arrive for sale in the Summer of 2019.

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Celebrating 30 Years Of Los Angeles Auto Show Coverage


Celebrating my 30 years covering the Los Angeles Auto Show will again bring you executive interviews, photos and details of the many new vehicle debuts to SaxtonOnCars.com. My first LA Auto Show coverage was in 1989 for Financial News Network's Auto Trends program (above) then on KWHY-TV as one of very few television journalists interviewing car executives, a far cry from today's throng of video-crazed smartphone bloggers. My coverage was then heard on KFWB980 NewsRadio, Bloomberg radio, read on Edmunds.com and for the past 10 years seen, heard and read on SaxtonOnCars.com and KNX1070 NewsRadio.

World introductions at this year's show will include the Audi e-tron GT concept, BMW 8 series convertible, BMW M340i, BMW X7 Sport Activity Vehicle, Hyundai Palisade 8-passenger SUV, all-new Mazda 3, all-new Nissan Maxima (left) and the Volkswagen Beetle Final Edition. Also, the 2019 Toyota Pruis hybrid, Lincoln Aviator, Lexus LX Inspiration Series plus new surprises from Hyundai, Kia, Jeep, Subaru and Volvo will debut.

Manufacturers you may not have heard of, like Chinese electric vehicle company BYTON will display their K-Byte and M-BYTE concepts. Minnesota-based Polaris Industries will show off four of their Slingshot® three-wheeled motorcycle models which they make clear are not an automobiles as they don't have airbags and don't meet automotive safety standards.

1,000 new vehicles to be on display at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show - open to the public from Friday, November 30th to Sunday, December 9th.

All-New 2019 Genesis G70 Starts At $35,895


The all-new 2019 Genesis G70, is powered by either a 365 horsepower 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged gasoline direct-injected V6 engine or a 252 horsepower (255 HP with manual transmission) 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline direct-injected 4-cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with rev-matching technology and gear-holding technology for tight corners. A 6-speed manual transmission is available as an option on the 2.0L T 4-cylinder engines equipped with RWD. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist and Driver Attention Warning are on board the G70. Available on the G70 is a 15-speaker, 660-watt Lexicon audio system with QuantumLogic multi-dimensional sound and Clari-Fi music restoration technology. Advanced telematics include technology like Destination Search powered by Voice, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. With Advanced to Sport trim levels coming in either RWD or AWD, pricing starts at $35,895 (including $995 freight charge). The G70 comes with three years/36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled G70 maintenance and a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.

Saturday, November 3, 2018

BMW M850i xDrive Convertible Starts At $122,395 In March


The first-ever four-seat BMW M850i xDrive Convertible, powered by a 523 horsepower 4.4L 8-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, has a fully-electric fabric top roof that can be raised or lowered in 15 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph. The 0-60 mph time is 3.8 seconds to a limited top speed of 155 mph. Active steering moves the rear wheels up to 2.5 degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels at speeds up to 45 mph. The Driving Experience Control switch enables SPORT and SPORT+ modes for maximum handling along with comfort-oriented ECO Pro and COMFORT modes. The BMW Head-Up Display comes as standard in the first-ever BMW 8 Series Convertible and projects relevant driving information onto the windscreen in the form of graphics. The standard Harman Kardon audio system comprises twelve speakers and a digital amplifier, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System. There's an optional M Carbon Exterior Package, consisting of air intake bars, exterior mirror caps and a rear diffuser insert, all made from CFRP. The BMW 8 Series Convertible is equipped with standard Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function, the latest version of which alerts the driver when a cyclist is detected. Depending on the situation, the system can bring the vehicle to a halt to either avoid a collision or minimize its consequences. The BMW M850i xDrive Convertible arrives in March 2019 with an MSRP of $122,395 (including $995 destination charge).

Monday, October 22, 2018

VIDEO: 2019 GMC Sierra Pick-Up Truck On Sale Now


GMC Communications' Fred Ligouri (left) and General Motors Global Chief Engineer Tim Herrick for full-size trucks (right) describe the trim levels, engine choices and attributes of the premium luxury 2019 GMC Sierra pick-up truck. Click here to watch video.





Friday, October 19, 2018

BMW X7 Starts At $74,895 In March


The first-ever BMW X7, with three rows of seats, comes in the BMW X7 xDrive50i with a 456 horsepower 4.4-liter V8 engine starting at $93,595 (including $995 destination charge) or a BMW X7 xDrive40i with a 335 horsepower 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine starting at $74,895, both mated to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. The all-new 2019 BMW X7 will offer a choice of six colors at launch, including non-metallic Alpine White and metallic paints in Carbon Black with M Sport Package, Black Sapphire, Mineral White, Arctic Grey and Vermont Bronze. Three more colors will be introduced as of April 2019 production, including Jet Black, Dark Graphite, and Phytonic Blue. The New BMW X7 arrives in March 2019.

Sunday, October 14, 2018

2019 Hyundai NEXO Fuel Cell SUV Coming Before Yearend


The 2019 Hyundai NEXO Blue model second-generation fuel cell SUV, with 161 peak horsepower, has an estimated driving range of 380 miles, 115 more than its predecessor, for estimated MPGe of 65 city, 58 highway and 61 combined, The NEXO Limited trim has an estimated range of 354 miles for an estimated MPGe of 59 city, 54 highway, and 57 combined. NEXO refueling time can be achieved in as little as five minutes. NEXO will be available in California before the end of 2018.

2019 Ford Ranger Coming Soon



The all-new 2019 Ford Ranger, powered by a 270 horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine paired with a 10-speed transmission, provides 1,860 pounds of maximum payload and can tow 7,500 pounds when equipped with the tow package and a trailer brake controller. Production begins later this year at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan.

2019 Hyundai Kona On Sale Now, Electric Coming In 2019



2019 Hyundai Kona (left), powered by either a standard 147 horsepower 2.0-liter Atkinson Cycle 4-cylinder engine with 6-speed automatic transmission or available 175 horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected engine with 7-speed DCT, starts at $20,970 for the SE model (including freight charge of $980). Now standard on all trim levels is Hyundai SmartSense safety technologies that include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist and Driver Attention Warning and all trims get an additional front USB charging port and soft touch front door armrests and inserts. The 2019 Kona is on sale now.


The Hyundai Kona Electric (right), with an estimated range of 258-miles, employs a 150 kW (201 horsepower) permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor supplied by a high-voltage 64 kWh lithium-ion battery. An eighty percent charge can be achieved in 54 minutes with a Level-III quick charge (zero to 80 percent charge @ 100 kW charging capability), using the SAE-Combo charging port, while a 7.2 kW Level-II charger takes nine hours and thirty-five minutes. The Kona Electric EPA-estimated MPGe is 132 city, 108 highway, and 120 combined. Kona Electric has Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Parking Distance Warning and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection. 2019 Kona Electric models will be produced in Ulsan, Korea and will be available in the beginning of 2019, with initial availability in California and subsequently in the ZEV-focused states in the western and northeastern regions of the U.S. market.

2019 Acura ILX Starting At $26,895 Now


The redesigned 2019 Acura ILX, arriving in dealerships now, powered by a 201-horsepower 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC™ engine mated to an 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, starts at $26,895 (including $995 destination and handling), a $2,200 reduction from the outgoing model. The 2019 ILX is equipped with an available refreshed dual-screen On Demand Multi-Use Display™ interface with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration that's approximately 30 percent faster. An enhanced 7-inch touchscreen. For 2019, every ILX comes standard with the AcuraWatch™ suite of active safety and driver-assistive technology, including Collision Mitigation Braking System™ with Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning. AcuraWatch™ technologies are now standard equipment across the entire Acura lineup.

2019 BMW 330i Starts At $41,245 In March


The seventh generation 2019 BMW 330i, 2.9 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider and 0.5 inches taller than its predecessor and powered by a 255 horsepower 2.0-liter, inline 4-cylinder with the 8-speed Sport Steptronic transmission, arrives in March 2019 with a starting price of $41,245 (including $995 destination) and the 330i xDrive sedan will start at $43,245. The BMW M340i and M340i xDrive Sedans, powered by a 382 horsepower straight-six engine, will arrive in the Spring of 2019. The new BMW 3 Series Sedan comes standard with the Active Guard Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function, the latest version of which also alerts the driver when a cyclist is detected. The optional Driving Assistant includes Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Detection systems.

2019 BMW i3 Range Is 153 Miles


The new 2019 BMW i3 is powered by a 170 horsepower electric motor, accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, while the BMW i3s with 181 horsepower sprints to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. The new generation of high-voltage batteries enables the BMW i3 120 Ah and the BMW i3s 120Ah to achieve a range of up to 153 miles, nearly a 30% improvement from the 94 Ah model and almost double its original range as battery capacity has increased to 42.2kWh. The optional Technology and Driving Assistance Package includes LED headlights with cornering lights, Active Driving Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Daytime Pedestrian Protection, Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation, and Advanced Real-Time Traffic Information. ConnectedDrive Services and front/rear Park Distance Control are now standard equipment. Parking Assistance is a standalone options for the i3 (not available on the i3s).

2019 Nissan Altima On Sale Now Starting At $24,645


The 2019 Nissan Altima, lower, longer and wider than the previous generation and now on sale, comes in S, SR, SV, SL and Platinum trim levels and is powered by a 188 horsepower 2.5-liter engine available with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive or a 248 horsepower 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine (front-wheel drive only). Pricing starts at $24,645 (includes $895 destination and handling) for Altima S 2.5 front-wheel drive and $25,995 for Altima S 2.5 all-wheel drive and includes Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat, 8.0-inch color display with multi-touch control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning and Rear Door Alert. Offered is Nissan Safety Shield 360 that includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Warning, radar-based Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and High Beam Assist. 

Saturday, September 22, 2018

2018 Jeep Wrangler Moab Edition Coming Soon


The 2018 Jeep Wrangler Moab Edition, the first limited-edition model based on the all-new Jeep Wrangler, is based on the Wrangler Sahara model and features Rubicon hood and steel bumpers with removable end caps, 32-inch mud-terrain tires, LED headlights and tail lights, a Moab decal on the hood and 17-inch Rubicon wheels painted in Low-Gloss Black. Standard features include Selec-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case, Passive Keyless Entry, Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential, 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen with navigation, a nine-speaker premium Alpine sound system and all-weather slush mats. The Jeep® Wrangler offers a 285 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 and an all-new 270 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine matched to either a six-speed manual transmission or available eight-speed automatic.

2019 Subaru BRZ Starts At $26,680 Soon


The 2019 Subaru BRZ sport coupe is powered by a 205 horsepower 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER engine mated to a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The BRZ Premium rear wheel drive sports car begins at just $200 more than last model year at $26,680 (including $885 destination and delivery charge). The 2019 Subaru BRZ will be offered in Premium, Limited and new Series.Gray trim levels when it arrives at retailers this Fall.

Friday, September 21, 2018

2019 Nissan LEAF Starts At $30,885 Now


The 2019 Nissan LEAF, in its second-generation, has a 150-mile driving range at a starting price of $30,885 for the LEAF S (including $895 destination and handling charge), with pricing for all three trim levels unchanged from 2018. For 2019, Nissan LEAF adds standard Rear Door Alert, as described in previous articles on Nissan vehicles. Available technology includes standard e-Pedal, Automatic Emergency Braking, automatic on/off headlights, Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Start and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System. Every 2019 Nissan LEAF is offered with a limited warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship for eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, for the lithium-ion battery pack.

2019 Genesis G70 Starts At $35,895 Now


The 2019 Genesis G70 now on sale in six trim levels with either a 252 horsepower 2.0T inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine or a 365 horsepower 3.3T V-6 twin-turbocharged engine with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters & rev match, starts at $35,895 (including $995 destination charge).

BMW iNEXT - Autonomous Mobility Coming In 2021


The BMW iNEXT, a new technology flagship, is slated to begin production in 2021 to set the stage for the BMW Group to offer 25 models with electrified drive systems, 12 of which will be pure-electric by 2025. BMW Vision iNEXT, taking in the possibilities of autonomous mobility, will allow future drivers to choose to either drive themselves (in “Boost” mode) or be driven (“Ease” mode). “Boost” mode uses the electric drive system to deliver a highly dynamic and virtually silent driving experience with zero emissions. In “Ease” mode, the vehicle offers the driver and passengers a space in which to engage in a wide range of activities.

2019 Nissan Versa Note Hatchback Starts At $16,545


The 2019 Nissan Versa Note hatchback in S, SV and SR. Versa Note SR trim levels, is powered by a 109 horsepower1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine, matched with a next-generation Nissan Xtronic transmission, helping achieve up to 39 miles per gallon highway fuel economy. A late 2018 model year update saw the addition of standard RearView Monitor and 7.0-inch color audio system touchscreen display. The Versa Note starts at $16,545 (including $895 destination and handling charge) now at Nissan dealers nationwide.

2019 BMW Z4 Coming In March


The all-new 2019 BMW Z4 M40i First Edition Roadster, 3.3 inches longer, 2.9 inches wider and 0.5 inches taller over its predecessor, is powered by a 382 horsepower 3.0-liter six-cylinder in-line engine while the BMW Z4 sDrive30i has a 255 horsepower 2.0 liter four-cylinder TwinPower Turbocharged motor, both equipped with a standard eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel. The seventh generation of the iDrive comprises a high-resolution digital 12.3” instrument cluster display behind the steering wheel and a 10.25” center display diagonally across. The 2019 BMW Z4 sDrive30i Roadster will arrive in March of 2019, and the 2020 BMW Z4 M40i Roadster will follow.

Audi e-tron SUV Starts At $75,795 In Mid-2019


The Audi e-tron five-seater, all-wheel drive electric mid-sized premium SUV is Audi's first fully electric production model and measures 193 inches long, 76.3 inches wide and 65.5 inches high. Two electric motors accelerate the e-tron from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds to a top speed of 124 mph. When equipped with the tow package, the Audi e-tron has a maximum tow rating of 4000 lbs. The e-tron debuts a DC fast charging capability of up to 150 kW available at select high-speed public charging stations, this capability can deliver up-to an 80 percent charge in only approximately 30 minutes. For customers’ residential charging needs, a standard 9.6 kW AC capsule charger (Level 2, 240-volt/40 amps) is provided and designed to deliver a fresh charge overnight. The Audi e-tron is being will arrive in the US during the 2nd quarter of 2019 starting at $75,795 (including $995 destination and delivery charge). Customers are now able to configure their e-tron and reserve their vehicle with a fully refundable $1,000 reservation fee ahead of delivery in mid-2019.

2019 Nissan Pathfinder Starts At $32,225 Now


The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder seven-passenger SUV, powered by a 284-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 with Direct Injection Gasoline™ system and Xtronic transmission os offered in 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive and a choice of S, SV, SL and Platinum trim levels and starts at $32,225 (including $995 destination and handling). All 2019 Pathfinder models have a Rear Sonar System, Automatic Emergency Braking and Rear Door Alert system, which can help remind customers of items that may be forgotten in the rear seat.

2019 Nissan Armada On Sale Now Starting At $48,185


The 2019 Nissan Armada full-size, 8-passenger SUV, starting at $48,185 (including $1,395 destination and handling charge), is powered by a 390 horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 engine mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission with a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds for both 4WD and 2WD models (when properly equipped). All 2019 Armada models now feature Standard Rear Door Alert designed to help remind customers of items that may be forgotten in the rear seat like pets, valuables, dry cleaning, groceries and more. If the system detects that a rear door is opened prior to driving, and the customer does not open a rear door again at the end of the trip, the system can remind customers that something might be left in the rear seat. Also on the 2019 model is Standard Automatic Emergency Braking and Standard Intelligent Forward Collision Warning. The 2019 Armada is available SV, SL Platinum and Platinum Reserve grade levels and is on sale now.

Thursday, September 20, 2018

Bye Bye Beetle In 2019, Starting At $23,940


Volkswagen of America will end production of the iconic Beetle in 2019. To celebrate the Beetle’s heritage, two special models will join the lineup for its last model year, Final Edition SE and Final Edition SEL. All 2019 Beetle models, both convertible and coupe, are powered a 174 horsepower 2.0 liter TSI® engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and the EPA-estimated fuel economy rating is 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined. Pricing for the 2019 Beetle Final Edition coupe starts at $23,940 (including $895 destination charge) for SE models and $26,890 for SEL models. Beetle Convertible Final Edition pricing starts at $28,190 for SE models and $30,890 for SEL models.

2019 Nissan Rogue On Sale Now Starting At $25,795


The 2019 Nissan Rogue crossover, Nissan's top-selling model which is on sale now, starts at $25,795 (including $995 destination and handling charge) for the Rogue S front-wheel drive model and is powered by a 170 horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine matched with an advanced Xtronic transmission with standard Sport Mode and Eco switches. Rogue is available with an All-Wheel Drive system or front-wheel drive. Fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined for front-wheel drive models. Rogue AWD models are estimated at 25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway and 27 mpg combined.

Mercedes-Benz GLE Goes On Sale Next Year


The new Mercedes-Benz GLE has a 3.1 inch longer wheelbase than its predecessor with legroom in the second seat row increasing by 2.7 inches to 41.1 inches. The new Mercedes-Benz GLE will offer a 255 horsepower 2.0L Inline-4 turbo engine for the GLE 350 and GLE 350 4MATICand a new 362 horsepower 3.0L inline six-cylinder turbo engine with EQ Boost in the GLE 450 4MATIC. The Integrated-Starter Generator is responsible for functions such as EQ Boost and energy recuperation, while allowing fuel savings that were previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology. A camera in the overhead console registers movements of the driver's and front passenger's hands and arms so when a hand approaches the touchscreen or the Touchpad on the center console, the media display changes and individual, elements are highlighted. The system is able to distinguish the driver's hand from that of the front passenger, and therefore knows which seat the massage function is to be activated on, for example. The new Mercedes- Benz GLE will celebrate its World Premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October 2018 and will go on sale in the U.S. in 2019.

2019 Lexus UX 200 Starts At $33,025


The 2019 Lexus UX 200 introduces a new169 horsepower 2.0 liter, four-cylinder engine coupled with a new 10-speed Direct Shift Direct Shift Continuously Variable Transmission while the all-wheel drive UX 250h pairs a 2.0 liter gas engine with a new fourth-generation hybrid drive system engineered specifically for this platform. The 2019 Lexus UX 200 will start at $33,025 (including $1,025 delivery, preparation & handling). The UX 250h will follow in January 2019 with a starting MSRP of $34,000*, adding all-wheel drive, increased power and better fuel efficiency, for only $2,000 more. The F SPORT package is available for both the UX 200 and UX 250h. Urban + X-over (crossover) = UX.

2019 BMW X2 M35i Coming Soon


The new 2019 BMW X2 M35i featuring a 302 horsepower 2.0L TwinPower turbocharged engine comes standard with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive technology in conjunction with the 8-speed sport automatic transmission including Launch Control. The BMW X2 M35i is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds. The new 2019 BMW X2 M35i goes into production in November for the U.S market.

BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance Coming In 2020


The new BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance combines a model-specific in-line 286 horsepower 3.0-liter 6-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo engine with a 112 horsepower plug-hybrid drive for a system total of 394 horsepower. Its electrically powered range is now approximately 50 miles, almost three times that of its predecessor. The specs and information refers to European models coming next year while U.S. specific vehicle information will be finalized closer to market launch in 2020 as a 2021 model year.

2019 Hyundai Elantra Starts At $17,985 Now


The redesigned 2019 Hyundai Elantra, now in its sixth generation, is powered by either a 2.0L 4-cylinder or 1.4L Turbo GDI 4-cylinder engine, and starts at $17,985 (including $885 freight charges) for the SE model which is now equipped with rearview camera with five-inch color screen, Bluetooth handsfree phone connectivity, and steering wheel audio controls. The high-volume Elantra SEL is priced at $20,285. SmartSense technologies on the 2019 Elantra include: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist, and Driver Attention Warning, which are all standard on the 2019 Elantra SEL trim and above.

Tuesday, September 4, 2018

Mercedes-Benz EQC Goes Into Production Next Year


The new Mercedes-Benz EQC, the first Mercedes-Benz model launched under the new product and technology brand EQ and the first fully electric SUV from Mercedes-Benz, is powered by a dual motor electric drivetrain at each axle, with a combined output of 402 horsepower with an estimated electric range of around 200 miles. The EQC supports its driver with five driving programs through DYNAMIC SELECT, each with different characteristics: COMFORT, ECO, MAX RANGE, SPORT and INDIVIDUAL for an individually customizable program. Production of the EQC is set to begin in 2019 at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen on the same line as the C-Class Sedan and Wagon, GLC and GLC Coupe.

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL Starts At $31,830


The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL, formerly the long wheelbase three-row, seven-passenger Santa Fe, has a choice of a 185 horsepower 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder GDI engine or a turbocharged 235 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a brand-new eight-speed automatic transmission. The SE FWD model starts at $31,830 (including $980 freight charges) for the SE FWD model.

2019 Nissan Frontier Starts At $19,985 Now


The 2019 Nissan Frontier mid-size pickup, available in both King Cab and Crew Cab body styles and in 4x2 and 4x4 driveline configurations, along with a choice of a 261 horsepower 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine or a 152-horsepower 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine (King Cab only), starts at $19,985 (including $995 destination and handling). The five trim grades are an S (4-cylinder and V6), SV, PRO-4X (4x4 only), Desert Runner (4x2 V6 only) and SL (Crew Cab V6 only). The 2019 Nissan Frontier gets a standard 7.0-inch color audio display touchscreen for S and SV grades and is on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide.

Friday, August 24, 2018

Audi PB 18 e-tron Concept Shown At Pebble Beach


The all-electric Audi PB 18 e-tron concept (referring to both to the Pebble Beach venue for the premiere and to the technological DNA it shares with the LMP1 racing car Audi R18 e-tron) uses three electric motors, delivering up to 201 horsepower to the front axle and 603 horsepower to the rear with a maximum output of 670 horsepower, with boosting, the driver can temporarily mobilize up to 764 horsepower. The production version of this groundbreaking e-SUV, named Audi e-tron, will debut in September.

2019 Acura NSX Starts At $159,300 Now for October Delivery


The 2019 Acura NSX is powered by a 573 horsepower Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® twin-turbocharged mid‑mounted V6 engine paired with a 9-speed dual clutch transmission. An electric Direct Drive Motor integrated with the engine and transmission supplements the engine with instantaneous electric torque. Containing two additional electric motors, the front-mounted Twin Motor Unit continuously varies torque, both positive and negative, to the left and right front wheels to enhance handling precision and cornering capabilities. The NSX's Integrated Dynamics System offers Quiet, Sport, Sport+ and Track modes. The 2019 model starts at $159,300 (including an $1,800 destination charge), an increase of $1,500 over the 2018 model with $4,700 in previously optional content now standard (4-way power sport seats, Satellite-Linked Navigation, ELS Studio® premium audio, proximity sensors and aluminum sport pedals). The 2019 NSX is available for order today with U.S. deliveries slated to begin in October.

2019 BMW Z4 M40i Coming In Q2 2019


The all-new 2019 BMW Z4 M40i First Edition comes with an updated version of BMW’s 3.0 liter inline 6-cylinder engine, a BMW M tuned sports suspension with electronically controlled dampers, M Sport braking system and an electronically controlled M Sport rear differential. Full Z4 model details and specifications will be announced on September 18 and the all-new 2019 BMW Z4 30i will arrive in U.S. BMW Centers in Spring 2019 with the BMW Z4 M40i (including the First Edition) arriving in the second quarter.

2019 GMC Sierra Denali Arriving At Dealerships


The all-new 2019 GMC Sierra Denali, the flagship of the next-generation Sierra lineup, is powered by an available 420 horsepower 6.2L V-8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered as a crew cab has nearly 3 inches of additional rear-seat legroom compared to the previous model. The all-new Traction Select System allows drivers to choose from preset available drive modes that have been tailored for different terrain or weather conditions.

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

All-New 2019 Audi A6 Starts At $59,895


The all-new 2019 Audi A6 is powered by an all-new 335 horsepower 3.0-liter TFSI® turbocharged V6 engine mated to a seven-speed S-tronic transmission, 30 pounds less than its predecessor. New for 2019, the A6 will come standard equipped with 48-volt Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle system under the rear cargo floor. Power is supplied from the 10Ah battery to a belt alternator starter. Also new for this year’s model is the all-new MMI touch response® system with MMI search based on free text input and natural voice control where drivers can speak requests such as, “I’m cold,” to which the A6 will respond with, “What temperature would you like to set the cabin to?” The A6 processes questions and commands through onboard stored data and information from the cloud. The all-new 2019 A6 starts at $59,895 (including the $995 destination charge).

2019 RS 5 Sportback Starts At $73,195 At Yearend


The 2019 RS 5 Sportback five-door coupe with seating for five, is powered by a 444 horsepower 2.9 liter TFSI V6 biturbo engine coupled with eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission and quattro sport rear differential. Standard systems include Audi pre sense® basic, Audi pre sense city, Audi side assist, Audi pre sense rear with rear cross traffic assist, as well as available adaptive cruise control with stop & go and traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, Audi active lane assist and high beam assistant. New for 2019, for assistance in parking scenarios, the RS 5 Sportback also receives available Audi park steering assist that can automatically steer the car into detected parallel or perpendicular parking spaces using ultrasonic sensors located in the front and rear bumpers and on the sides. The RS 5 Sportback is coming to the U.S. market at the end of 2018 starting at $75,195 (including $995 destination charge).

Thursday, August 16, 2018

2019 Nissan Sentra Starts At $18,685 Now


The 2019 Nissan Sentra, powered by a 124-horsepower 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to an Xtronic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission which is also available with the 130 horsepower Sentra S grade. The Sentra SR Turbo and Sentra NISMO feature a 188 horsepower 1.6-liter Direct Injection turbocharged engine. The Sentra NISMO offers a choice of 6-speed manual or specially tuned Xtronic transmission. For the 2019 model year, all Sentra grades (except Sentra S) receive standard NissanConnectSM with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. Pricing starts at $18,685 (including $895 destination and handling) for the Sentra S with 6-speed manual transmission.

2019 Honda Civic Sedan and Coupe Get Refreshed


The refreshed 10th-generation 2019 Honda Civic Sedan and Coupe include updated styling, a new Sport trim positioned between the LX and EX for both body styles and standard Honda Sensing® technology which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ with Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation incorporating Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System, and Adaptive Cruise Control. The Sport trim features a high-revving 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC VTEC® engine mated to either a smooth and efficient CVT with G-Shift Control or a slick-shifting 6-speed manual.

Wednesday, August 15, 2018

All-New 2019 Audi A7 Starts At $68,995


The all-new 2019 Audi A7 five-door coupe is powered by an all-new 335 horsepower 3.0-liter TFSI® turbocharged V6 engine mated to a seven-speed S-tronic transmission with auto, comfort, dynamic and individual drive select modes. All A7 models will come standard equipped with a 48-volt Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle technology system stored under the rear cargo floor. Power is supplied from the 10Ah battery to a belt alternator starter. New for 2019 is an all-new MMI touch response® system and available advanced driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise assist and Audi pre-sense 360o along with all new headlight and taillight technologies. The all-new 2019 Audi A7 starts at $68,995 (including $995 destination charge).

2019 Mazda CX-9 Arriving At Dealerships


The 2019 Mazda CX-9, powered by a SKYACTIV-G 2.5T turbocharged engine that delivers up to 250 horsepower on 93-octane gas (227 horsepower with 87-octane gasoline) and mated to a six-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission, starts at $32,280. The 2019 Mazda CX-9 will be in dealerships nationwide in September.

Buick Regal Avenir Arrives This Fall


The Buick Regal Avenir, the top trim level as already seen in the Enclave and LaCrosse, is powered by a 250-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Buick’s first cloud-connected1 Infotainment System debuts on Regal Avenir, enabling embedded apps and enhancing how customers interact with vehicle features such as profiles, available navigation, voice recognition system updates and applications. Owners will now be able to personalize their user preferences and seamlessly take that profile with them into any compatible vehicle. Safety and driver assistance technologies available on other Regal Sportback models come standard on Avenir, including Rear Park Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, LED headlamps with auto leveling, cornering lamps and driver side auto-dimming mirrors. Additional active safety technologies, including Adaptive Cruise Control - Advanced, are also available. Pricing will be announced early Fall 2018 when Avenirs arrive at dealers.

All-New Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan Coming Later In 2018


The all-new Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan, available as an A 220 and as an A 220 4MATIC with a wheelbase of 107.4 inches, is powered by a 188 horsepower 2.0L inline-4 turbocharged engine mated to a 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission. Standard safety systems include Active Brake Assist and adaptive braking technology with Hill Start Assist and the HOLD function. As an available option, KEYLESS-GO with HANDS-FREE ACCESS enables the hands-free and fully automatic opening of the trunk lid with a kicking motion of the foot under the rear bumper. PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognize an imminent rear-end collision. The all-new 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan will go on sale in the U.S. in late 2018.