Friday, December 20, 2019

New Jaguar F-TYPE Available To Order In The U.K.


The new Jaguar F-TYPE two-seat sportscar is powered, depending on market, by a choice of a 296 horsepower 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder, 375 horsepower 3.0 liter supercharged V6 and 444 horsepower and 567 horsepower 5.0 liter V8 engines, all mated to an eight-speed Quickshift transmission with full manual control using either the SportShift gear selector or the steering wheel-mounted paddles. The new 12.3-inch reconfigurable HD TFT instrument cluster offers a choice of different displays. The new Jaguar F-TYPE is available to order now at jaguar.com and priced from £54,060 ($70,475) in the UK.

Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC Coming Mid-Next Year


The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC powered by an electrified variant of the V8 gasoline engine with a displacement of 3,982 cc, 48-volt on-board electrical system and integrated starter-alternator for hybrid functions such as EQ Boost or energy recovery. The engine, mated to a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, produces an output of 550 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque and an additional 184 lb-ft of torque and up to 21 horsepower output are available temporarily via EQ Boost. When the doors are opened, the vehicle is lowered slightly, and an illuminated running board made of anodized aluminum quickly and silently emerges on the respective side of the vehicle. The Mercedes- Maybach features the AIRMATIC air suspension with Adaptive Damping System Plus in addition to the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL based on the 48 V on-board electrical system. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC will go on sale in the U.S. in the second half of 2020.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Alfa Romeo Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Compact SUV


The Alfa Romeo Tonale plug-in hybrid compact SUV, first shown in March in Geneva, is on display at the Los Angeles Show now. "Dynamic" mode evolves into "Dual Power" mode and guarantees maximum output from the two engines while "Natural" mode continues to maintain the best performance optimization, and the compromise between using electric and internal combustion engines is managed automatically. The “Advance Efficiency” mode becomes “Advance E” for performance in full electric mode. The infotainment touch screen features an “E-mozione” button, which offers specific throttle settings, sharper braking and a more direct steering response.

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Goes On Sale In The Spring


The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, made in Korea and fitting between the Trax and Equinox in the Chevy SUV, delivers up to 155 horsepower from either a 1.2L turbo or 1.3L turbo engine mated with a standard Continuously Variable Transmission with selectable stop/start capability. A nine-speed automatic transmission is also available on Trailblazers equipped with the 1.3L engine and all-wheel drive. Features include Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, IntelliBeam Headlamps (Auto High Beam Assist), Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Rear Vision Camera, Rear Seat Reminder, and OnStar. Additional optional features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Park Assist, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, HD Rear Vision Camera, and ACTIV Tuned for Off-Road Use. The Trailblazer is expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms in Spring 2020 with specific trim and option pricing details to be announced closer to launch.

Mustang Mach-E SUV Starts At $42,900 In Late 2020


The all-electric Mustang Mach-E SUV, targeting 332 horsepower, will be available in both standard-range (75.7 kWh lithium-ion battery) and extended-range (98.8 kWh battery) with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive powered by permanent magnet motors which has a targeted EPA-estimated range of at least 300 miles in rear-wheel-drive configuration. The standard-range Mustang Mach-E is estimated to charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in approximately 38 minutes while charging on a DC fast charging station. Mustang Mach-E will start at $42,900 when it arrives in late 2020 and the 459 horsepower Mach-E GT deliveries start in Spring 2021.

2020 Mazda CX-30 Starts At $22,945


The all-new 2020 Mazda CX-30 five-seat crossover, powered by a 186 horsepower four-cylinder Skyactiv-G 2.5 paired with a Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, size-wise seems to fit between the CX-3 and CX-5. Standard i-Activsense safety includes Driver Attention Alert, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go function, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist, Smart Brake Support and High Beam Control. The 2020 Mazda CX-30 goes on sale with a starting MSRP of $22,945 (including $1,045 for destination and handling).

Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Coming Early Next Year


The new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63, with a longer wheelbase than its predecessor, is powered by a 603 horsepower 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine mated to a AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission equipped with an integrated EQ Boost starter-generator that unites a starter motor and an alternator in a single electric motor integrated between the engine and the transmission providing up to an additional 21 horsepower of output.

Mercedes-Benz EQC Coming Early Next Year


The all-new Mercedes-Benz EQC,  the first fully electric Mercedes-Benz vehicle to launch globally under the new EQ brand, has compact electric drivetrains at each axle for a total capacity of 80 kWh delivering 402 horsepower.  The battery is able to recharge from 10% to 80% in just 40 minutes. The all-new EQC will go on sale in the U.S. in early 2020 with the EQC 400 4MATIC starting from $67,900.

2021 Kia Seltos Arrives In First Quarter


The all-new 2021 Kia Seltos, in LX, EX, S 2.0L, S 1.6T and SX trim levels, powered by either a 146 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder MPI engine managed by an Intelligent Variable Transmission (LX, S and EX) or a 175-horsepower 1.6-liter turbo engine paired with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (S and SX). The LX AWD will have a starting price below $22,000 and the S FWD will have a similar starting price when it goes on-sale in the U.S. in the first quarter of 2020.

Hyundai IONIQ Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid and Electric Refreshed


The Hyundai IONIQ Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid and Electric cars all receive refreshed exterior and interior designs, added infotainment technology and new Hyundai SmartSense™ active safety features and driving assistance systems. The new 2020 IONIQ Electric with 134 horsepower now has 170 miles of range thanks to an upgraded 38.3-kWh battery with 36% more energy capacity. IONIQ Hybrid Blue model still has an EPA-estimated 58 MPG combined rating, the highest rating of any non-plug-in vehicle sold in the U.S. market. Drivers choosing IONIQ Plug-in can safely rely on 29 miles of pure electric driving range powered by the 8.9 kWh battery pack. The IONIQ Plug-in Hybrid model delivers a total system output of 156 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. The new IONIQ Hybrid, Plug-in and Electric, all with 6-Speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmissions w/ SHIFTRONIC®, start at $23,930 (including freight charges of $930), are available to customers now.

Audi RS Q8 SUV Coming Next Year


The all-new Audi RS Q8 SUV, the first RS-SUV from Audi in America, is powered by a 591 horsepower 4.0-liter V8 engine mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission. The Audi RS Q8 is expected to arrive in the U.S. in 2020.

Hyundai Vision T Plug-in Hybrid SUV Concept


Hyundai Vision T Plug-in Hybrid SUV Concept 

2021 RAV4 Prime Plug-In Hybrid Arrives Next Summer


The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4 will add the 2021 RAV4 Prime in SE and XSE grades to the line-up next Summer with an estimated 302 horsepower all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid electric vehicle delivering a manufacturer-estimated 90 combined MPGe.

Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring Hybrid Coming Next Summer


The all-new Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring all-wheel drive SUV is powered by a hybrid powertrain pairing a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gas engine and a permanent magnet synchronous motor with a combined targeted output of 266 horsepower delivering a targeted EPA-estimated all-electric range of more than 25 miles. Standard Lincoln Co-Pilot360 includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection with Cross-Traffic Alert, a Lane-Keeping System, rearview camera and auto high beam headlamps. An available upgrade, Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Plus, adds Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Jam Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Reverse Brake Assist and Active Park Assist Plus. The all-new Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring will be available next Summer.

2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible


The 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible, powered by a 471 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine paired with the Direct-Shift 10-speed automatic transmission, will come with a 10.3-inch high-resolution split-screen multimedia display to provide immediate, simultaneous access to audio or climate controls and various systems, including the voice-activated navigation system. Also standard is the Lexus Safety System with Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Intelligent High Beams, and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible goes on sale next Summer.

Audi e-tron Sportback 55 Coming In The Spring


The Audi e-tron Sportback 55 electric all-wheel drive vehicle offers up to 402 horsepower with a range of up to 277 miles from a single battery charge with each axle fitted with an asynchronous electric motor. The Audi e-tron Sportback will go on sale in Europe is scheduled for the spring of 2020.

Aston Martin DBX Starts at $189,900 In 2020 Q2


The Aston Martin DBX 5-seat SUV is powered by a new version of the 542 horsepower 4-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 engine mated to a nine-speed torque convertor automatic transmission connected to an all-wheel drive system with active differentials featuring an active central differential and an electronic rear limited slip differential that propels DBX from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 181mph. The DBX is on sale now starting at $189,900, with first deliveries scheduled to begin Q2 2020.

Sunday, November 17, 2019

2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid Coming This Spring


The all-new 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, powered by two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain technology, is anticipated to achieve a 50 percent higher city fuel economy rating than the non-hybrid CR-V when it launches in the Spring of 2020. In addition to the new hybrid-electric variant, the entire 2020 CR-V lineup includes major upgrades: a freshened exterior design, new cabin appointments, and a standard 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and standard Honda Sensing® safety and driver-assistive technology, both previously standard only on EX and above trims. More to come this week at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

2020 Fiat 500X Sport Starts At $28,390 In First Quarter


New 2020 Fiat 500X Sport model, with new front and rear fascia designs, is powered by a 177 horsepower 1.3-liter turbocharged engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system with an automatic disconnecting rear axle for improved fuel economy. The 2020 Fiat 500X Sport model starts at $28,390 (including $1,495 destination charge). In addition to the new Fiat 500X Sport, the 2020 Fiat 500X lineup includes Pop, Trekking and Trekking Plus models that start at $26,085. Safety and security features now include Adaptive Cruise Control and Front Park Assist. The 500X Sport features latest generation Uconnect 4 with 7-inch display infotainment system, including satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The 500X Sport model will be available in the first quarter of 2020 in FIAT studios and select Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram and FIAT stores.

2020 Jeep® Wrangler EcoDiesel Arrives Soon


The new 2020 Jeep® Wrangler EcoDiesel, offered in four-door models, is powered by a 260 horsepower 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine mated to the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission with engine stop-start technology standard. Jeep Wrangler Sport, Sahara and Rubicon EcoDiesel models feature third-generation Dana 44 front and rear heavy-duty axles and a 3.73 axle ratio. The 2020 Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel goes on sale in the fourth quarter of 2019. Click here for more on the Wrangler. 

2020 Volkswagen Passat Starts At $23,915 By Year End


The new restyled 2020 Volkswagen Passat, powered by a 174 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®, will start at $23,915 (including $920 destination charge).  A new, more contemporary instrument panel has been fitted, along with a new glass-covered infotainment touchscreen. Standard features include 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, full LED lighting, App-Connect, Front Assist with Pedestrian Monitoring, Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Traffic Alert. The 2020 Volkswagen Passat will be available in S, SE,  R-Line and SEL trim levels and is expected to begin arriving at U.S. Volkswagen dealers by the end of this year.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

2020 Hyundai Sonata Starts At $24,330


The all-new 2020 Hyundai Sonata, powered by the all-new 191 horsepower Smartstream 2.5-liter engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and Shift-By-Wire selector, starts at $24,330 (including freight charges) for the entry-level SE model which comes with an 8-inch LCD monitor, Electronic Parking Brake, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Follow Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Automatic high-beam assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.

2020 Honda CR-V Starts At $26,145 Now, Hybrid Coming Next Year


The 2020 Honda CR-V gets a new 190 horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged direct-injected powerplant available in front-wheel-drive or with Honda Real Time all-wheel drive and mated to a continuously variable transmission with Honda G-Shift control logic. Redesigned for 2020 is the exterior and the center console that is easier to use. All Honda CR-V trims come standard with Collision Mitigation Braking System™ with Forward Collision Warning and pedestrian sensing capability, Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with low-speed follow and Lane Keeping Assist. Additional driver-assist technologies include the available blind spot information, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor and Auto High Beam headlights. The 2020 CR-V is on sale now starting at $26,145 (including $1,095 destination and handling charges) More information on the CR-V Hybrid's two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain will be available closer to when it goes on sale early next year.

Audi RS 6 Avant Coming To The U.S. Next Year


The all-new Audi RS 6 Avant, powered by a 592 horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission with sport program and launch control function, will arrive in the U.S. in 2020. U.S. power and performance specifications will become available closer to market introduction.

2020 Chrysler Voyager Minivan Starts At $28,480 Now


The 2020 Chrysler Voyager with seven-passenger seating is the latest addition to Chrysler’s minivan lineup designed for budget-friendly families and replaces the Pacifica L and LX models. The Chrysler Voyager is powered by a 287 horsepower Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a TorqueFlite nine-speed automatic transmission. Standard features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility. The Voyager also features a Blind-spot Monitoring system, an available Rear Cross Path detection system, and available ParkSense rear park assist with stop that detects objects in the path of the Voyager when the vehicle is in reverse. While sensors help the driver maneuver into tight parking spaces, they also prompt automatic braking when the system deems contact is imminent. All this has earned the highest possible five-star overall safety rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The 2020 Chrysler Voyager starts at $28,480 (including $1,495 destination charge) and arriving in dealerships now.

2020 Hyundai Venue Starts At $18,345 At Month-end


The 2020 Hyundai Venue, all-new entry-level SUV, is powered by the all-new 121 horsepower Smartstream 1.6-liter Dual-Port Injection four-cylinder FWD engine and comes in SE (Manual Transmission) or SE Intelligent Variable Transmission automatic, SEL (IVT) or the two-toned exterior Denim (IVT) trim levels. starts at $18,345 (including $1,095 in freight charges). Venue comes standard with a 3.5-inch TFT Instrument cluster display, rearview monitor, 8-inch AM/FM/HD® Radio Audio System with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ with four speakers, first row USB charge port, 12V outlet, Bluetooth® hands-free phone, steering wheel audio controls, cruise control, automatic headlights, air conditioning, remote keyless entry and an exterior temperature display. Venue also has Hyundai SmartSense including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist and Driver Attention Warning, Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management with Traction Control as well as front, side and head curtain airbags each as standard equipment. Venue will be available at U.S. dealerships at the end of the month.

BMW M2 CS Will Make World Debut At LA Auto Show


The BMW M2 CS, developed side by side with the new M2 CS Racing model, is powered by a 444 horsepower 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology mated to either the standard 6-speed manual or optional 7-speed dual clutch transmission. The 2020 BMW M2 CS Coupe will make its World Debut at Automobility LA on November 20th.

Kia Futuron Concept - A look Into The Future


The Kia Futuron Concept electric SUV coupe has a high-capacity battery mounted under the cabin floor, providing electrical energy to four in-wheel electric motors. A sports car on an SUV platform that makes a statement of intent for Kia’s future cars.

Friday, November 1, 2019

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


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

2020 Mazda6 Starts At $24,920


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

Nissan Ariya Concept


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

Mitsubishi MI-TECH CONCEPT


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

Lexus LF-30 Electrified Concept


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

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Starts At $23,155 Soon


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

2020 Nissan TITAN Goes On Sale In Early 2020


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

Volvo XC40 Recharge - Fully Electric


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

2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Coming In March


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

2020 Audi A6 allroad Returns Next Year


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

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


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

Toyota "LQ" Concept


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

2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Arrives In The Spring


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

2021 Toyota Mirai 2nd Gen FCEV Coming Late Next Year


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

2020 BMW M8 Gran Coupe Coming In March


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

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


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

2020 Subaru Impreza Sedan Starts At $19,595 Now


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

Thursday, October 3, 2019

2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Hardtop Convertible


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

Wednesday, October 2, 2019

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


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

Tuesday, October 1, 2019

Video: 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

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

Click here to watch video.

Friday, September 27, 2019

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


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

2020 Nissan TITAN Coming Early Next Year


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