Automotive: August 2020

2017 Honda CR-V 1.5T AWD Touring Review

2017 Honda CR-V 1.5T AWD Touring Review

For years, the Honda CR-V has been one of those vehicles that just blended in with all the other small crossovers on the road. Gone are those days forever, now that the 2017 CR-V has arrived. Honda has fully-redesigned the popular model and it gets more comfortable, more fuel-stingy, and more versatile. The exterior has also been completely restyled and is now more attractive and modern looking.
This week, we drove the top-trim, 2017 Honda CR-V AWD Touring model.
What’s New For 2017
The Honda CR-V is completely redesigned for 2017. The outside gets a much needed styling udpate, it gets a longer and wider wheelbase, and the addition of an optional, 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that should improve fuel economy and acceleration. We checked both of those out this week.
Features & Options
The CR-V AWD Touring comes standard with LED daytime running lights, a rearview camera, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40-split folding and reclining rear seat, Bluetooth connectivity, and Pandora internet radio compatibility. Touring models get bigger 18-inch alloy wheels, a turbocharged engine, heated side mirrors, automatic headlights (and high beams), a sunroof, foglights, a retractable cargo cover, keyless entry and ignition, remote start, an eight-way power driver’s seat (with four-way power lumbar adjustment), heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
It also comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen with HondaLink smartphone app integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), satellite radio, and an extra USB port. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitoring system, a forward collision warning and mitigation system with automatic braking, and a lane departure warning and intervention system.
Even more luxury items include a hands-free height-adjustable power liftgate, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, HD radio, LED headlights, automatic windshield wipers, ambient interior LED lighting, a navigation system, and an upgraded sound system with nine speakers.
Honda did not have pricing yet on this CR-V pre-production model.

Interior Highlights
The cabin in the 2017 CR-V is updated with new materials which look classy for the segment. The interior gets a bit bigger with the wider and longer wheelbase, allowing even more room for passengers in the front and back. Up front, the gearshift gets moved further forward and higher on the center console, allowing for abundant storage areas. There’s multiple handy trays and storage bins for families to easily hide all their stuff, keeping the front uncluttered. We also liked the top-of-the line Touring model inside with its wood-grain trim, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel, gear shift knob, and seats.
Drivers will definitely appreciate the added adjustability that comes with the 12-way power driver’s seat. We could easily find the perfect driving position for superior visibility. We especially liked the re-introduction of a volume knob for the audio system on the CR-V’s center console. It’s one of the things Honda listened to as there were many complaints about the touchscreen volume controls on previous CR-Vs. It makes it much easier now to crank up the tunes.
Out back, there’s even more room for rear passengers. Our riders this week commented on the ample leg and headroom as we traveled for a lunch meeting. Behind the rear seat, the CR-V offers up one of the most user-friendly cargo areas in the small SUV segment with 39.2 cubic feet of cargo-carrying ability. There’s also a deep cargo area and lower load floor making it easier to load bigger cargo items. The Touring’s power lift gate comes with a handy hands-free option and a height-adjustment feature.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2017 Honda CR-V gets a new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft. of of torque. It comes mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and our Touring tester came with optional all-wheel drive.
EPA fuel mileage estimates are 27/33 city/highway and 29 combined mpg. We averaged 28.2 mpg for the week which was at altitude, plus we pushed the crossover hard.
Driving Dynamics
This Touring model came fitted with the new turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. When we first looked at the size and horsepower, at least on paper, it didn’t seem like an upgrade with more power. It seems undersized for the vehicle, but the turbocharger totally changes the dynamics of this engine. We pushed the new CR-V hard all week at altitude in the mountains west of Denver, and the 1.5-liter mill never lacked for power.
We drove it up I-70 into the mountains and we had all the power we needed to stay in the fast lane and pass slower traffic. In the city, the CR-V handles like a champ as we were able to scoot in and out of traffic. The ride is smooth and composed, even over rough pavement. The cabin is quieter than the previous model; we were able to crank up the premium sound system and enjoy the ride.
The CR-V is a great city commuter that’s the perfect size for a new or smaller family. It’s roomy enough inside and never left us feeling tired at the end of the day. Visibility is good and the tilt-telescoping steering wheel along with the 12-way power driver’s seat is extra convenient on long trips. The only complaint is that the parking brake sets itself when you shut off the engine. When you get back in, you have to release the brake or you don’t go anywhere.
Conclusion
Overall, the newly-redesigned 2017 Honda CR-V is good-looking and comfortable. The new fuel-efficient 1.5-liter turbo engine has plenty of power for most driving situations. The all-wheel drive makes it an all-weather cable crossover with plenty of utility. For more information on the new CR-V, look through our detailed Product and Performance Overview here.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Honda CR-V Gallery

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2017 Honda CR-V Official Site
Photos: Honda North America

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2018 Hyundai Sonata: Product & Performance Overview

2018 Hyundai Sonata: Product & Performance Overview

The 2018 Hyundai Sonata arrives with new styling, enhanced safety features, and upgraded steering and suspension components. Hyundai unveiled the vehicle recently at the New York International Auto Show, underscoring their desire for a “bold, daring, and beautiful” automobile.
“It’s all about making an impact,” said Chris Chapman, Chief Designer, Hyundai North American Design. “The moment the pen left the drafting paper, I knew we had something special in this re-imagined Sonata.”
Styling & Design
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata was designed at Hyundai’s California Design Studio with American flare in mind. Designers focused on a more decisive stance, characterized primarily by the “cascading grille” and new rear profile. The 2018 Sonata has LED daytime running lights and available LED headlamps with a bending feature to help illuminate the road.
The center stack and instrument panel were designed with the exterior for a consistent theme throughout. The dials, three-spoke steering wheel, and piano key buttons for the audio and HVAC controls are just several examples of where Hyundai went for a premium look and feel.
“Dynamic lines, strong graphics, and our new signature cascading grille come together in an athletic way,” Chapman said.
Power & Performance
At the top of the range, the 2018 Sonata is motivated by a 2.0-liter turbo engine producing 245 horsepower. The eight-speed automatic was designed with well balanced ratios, meaning drivers will find an optimum blend between performance and efficiency. The transmission provides strong off-the-line acceleration and fuel efficient highway cruising. The 2.0-liter turbo models have 18-inch wheels and Michelin tires.
Hyundai’s engineers zeroed in on ride and handling specifically, improving the 2018 Sonata’s overall responsiveness. The steering system went through a total revision and various components, like the torsion bar, were beefed up to improve the handling in all conditions. The rear suspension received similar treatment with trailing arms now 21 percent thicker. The additional stiffness helps manage suspension loads, while new bushings work within the suspension arms for more nimble handling.
What’s interesting is Hyundai’s feedback from customers in this area was already quite high, but the automaker wanted to made a good thing better.
“We wanted to deliver an exciting, expressive car to our customers and show the world how passionate Hyundai is about design and craftsmanship,” Chapman said.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Safety & Security
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata has seven standard airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag. The vehicle has an available Lane Departure Warning system with an enhanced Lane Keep Assist function; Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert provides additional safety when maneuvering in reverse.
Connectivity & Availability
Driver’s will stay connected through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. A Qi wireless charging pad accompanies a second row USB charge port. The available navigation system now comes with a bird’s eye view feature, plus traffic flow and incident data – both are available without a subscription fee. No word yet on when the 2018 Hyundai Sonata will be available but the car is on display currently at the New York International Auto Show.
“The objective was to make an impact, and this design provides the visual excitement and unique identity our customers associate with Sonata,” Chapman said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America

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2017 New York: The Buick Enclave Avenir debuts brand's extra-lux sub-label

2017 New York: The Buick Enclave Avenir debuts brand's extra-lux sub-label Buick is on a long-term quest to reel in the younger crowd and it’s been a tough battle. The Enclave Avenir, alongside their existing and planned model updates proves they have the secret sauce in the kitchen now.

I recently attended Buick’s unveiling of the Enclave Avenir, set to go on sale as a 2018 model. I’m a younger guy, who admittedly fell out of the fast, affordable, and fun car (in other words, $20,000 used German cars) scene. This trumped any attention I had left of any modest daily drivers with warranties that admittedly, fit my rapidly adulting life much more suitably. So going to a Buick event intrigued me, but in all honesty, I wasn’t expecting anything to fit my tastes, to say the least. Except maybe some free high-end waters, or some cool people to network with.
Enough to impress the BMW and Mercedes lot?

I’m thrilled to report, the water was delicious. The people were more Mercedes or BMW affluent types. And the car…the car surprised me. American cars, even post-bankruptcy fallout, featured novelty features and ergonomics improvements. The exterior and interior designs also showed signs of improvement, gradually edging ever so much closer to borderline extremely impressive. The Avenir, based upon the seven passenger Enclave crossover that Buick already sells, is loaded with actually appealing standard and optional treats.
A cabin air ionizing filter, a rear view mirror camera, and truly next level LED headlamps all caught me off guard. This is stuff I’d expect to see in a BMW 5-Series. Meaning, if I bought a 540i tomorrow, I’d expect this level of equipment.
Enough of that trio. Let’s discuss things that aren’t listed as features on the window sticker. The 3.6 liter V6 makes 302 horsepower, and 260 pound-feet of torque. The car can tow a 5,000 pound speedboat (as they said in the unveiling).
Buick builds quality

The build quality? Holy moly. GM is really there! And, in a Buick! The colorway of the interior was modern, pleasing, and revealing (i.e. not just all black). The leather was smooth, the gaps were minuscule, and interior trim had that unique comforting feel like you’d expect in that 5-Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Buick, you’ve come a long way since straining to get Tiger Woods to sell your cars. You haven’t sold cloth bench seat grandpa-mobiles in a long time, but still, you’re generations ahead of where you were a few years ago. You’re on the map. The real map, not the “wow GM is doing really well, but not well enough for me” map. That leads us to the biggest question of all.
Would I buy one? No. But, only because it’s way more than an unmarried 30-something needs. If I had a wife and two kids? I’d test drive one ASAP – very impressive.
– By: Pat Miller
2018 Enclave Avenir Specifications
Overview
Model:
Buick Enclave Avenir
Body style / driveline:
midsize SUV / front-engine; front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive
Construction:
body-frame integral
EPA vehicle class:
sport utility vehicle
Manufacturing location:
Lansing Delta Township
Key competitors:
Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60, Lincoln MKX

Propulsion Systems
Engine:
3.6L V6 with stop/start technology
Displacement
(cu in / cc):
223 / 3649
Bore & stroke (in / mm):
3.7 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6
Block material:
cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:
cast aluminum
Valvetrain:
DOHC, four valves per cylinder with VVT
Fuel delivery:
direct fuel injection
Buick-est. Horsepower
(hp / kW @ rpm):
302 / 227 @ 6800 (est.)
Buick-est. Torque
(lb.-ft. / Nm @ rpm):
260 / 353 @ 2800 (est.)
Buick-estimated fuel economy (city / hwy / comb):
17 / 25 / 20 (FWD)
17 / 24 / 19 (AWD)
Buick-estimated 0-60 mph (seconds)
7.2 (FWD)
7.5 (AWD)
Transmission:
Hydra-Matic nine-speed automatic
Trailering (lbs)
1,500
5,000 (with factory-installed towing package)

Chassis/Suspension
Suspension (front):
MacPherson strut
Suspension (rear):
Five-link
available AWD with active twin clutch
available premium suspension with continuously variable real-time damping (CDC)
Steering type:
electric variable power-assist steering (EPS) with Active Return Assist
Turning circle (ft / m):
39 / 11.9
Brakes:
four-wheel-disc, variable brake system with power assist; Duralife brake rotors and four-channel ABS
Wheel size and type:
20-in. cast aluminum with Pearl Nickel finish
Tires:
P255/55R20 all-season

DimensionsExterior
Wheelbase (in / mm):
120.9 / 3071
Overall length
(in / mm):
204.3 / 5189
Overall width (in / mm):
78.8 / 2001.5
Overall height
(in / mm):
69.9 / 1775
Track (in / mm):
67.3 / 1709 (front)
67 / 1702 (rear)
Curb weight (lb / kg):
4358 / 1977 (base)
Fuel tank (gal):
19.4 (FWD)
21.7 (AWD)

Interior
Seating capacity:
up to seven passengers
Headroom
(in / mm):
front: 41 / 1041.4 (without moonroof)
2nd row: 39.9 / 1013.5 (without moonroof)
3rd row: 37.6 / 955
Legroom
(in / mm):
front: 41.2 / 1046.5
2nd row: 38.9 / 988.1
3rd row: 33.7 / 856
Shoulder room
(in / mm):
front: 62.4 / 1581
2nd row: 61.7 / 1566
3rd row: 57.3 / 1455
Hip room
(in / mm):
front: 59.1 / 1500
2nd row: 57.7 / 1465
3rd row: 48.5 / 1233
Cargo volume*
(cu. ft. / L):
97.6 / 2764.5 (behind first row)
58 / 1642.9 (behind second row)
23.6 / 668.2 (behind third row)
3.1 / 88.6 (underfloor storage bin)
*Measurements calculated according to new SAE standard. Cargo space behind the first row has increased overall by seven cubic feet from the first generation Enclave.
2017 New York – Buick Enclave Avenir Gallery

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Automoblog Book Garage: The Art of the Classic Sports Car

Automoblog Book Garage: The Art of the Classic Sports Car

Tony Borroz, one of Automoblog’s featured contributors, grew up in a racing family. It’s always interesting when he recalls certain dinner conversations from his early years. Just as some families may watch a particular sports team, or enjoy activities like camping and fishing, Tony’s was one of white-knuckle horsepower, filled with spirited debates.
It was during those moments Tony’s love for sports cars and racing blossomed.
As they would debate (in an incredibly Italian fashion according to Tony) about who had the best chassis setup, or who was rolling out the fastest, most capable car that year, his life was shaped and his bent would forever be automotive. Think back to your own life – do you remember when you first fell in love with cars? The latest entry in our Book Garage series will easily rekindle that passion.
Specs & Stories
The Art of the Classic Sports Car: Pace and Grace documents the true sports cars of the automotive world; cars that unlike their “normal” counterparts, ride, handle, and sprint in remarkable ways. The question remains, however, what was the first sports car? This sparks a good, healthy debate among enthusiasts but if it’s one thing we usually agree on, it’s how these cars truly stand out. The book covers some of the most legendary sports cars from the likes of Jaguar, Chevrolet, Triumph, MG, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lotus, Alfa-Romeo, and BMW – their full specs are detailed and their stories told.
One of the best is when author Stuart Codling documents the Ferrari 250 California; how Enzo Ferrari faced a desperate postwar Italian economy to develop a truly marvelous 240 horsepower machine unlike anything else. The Art of the Classic Sports Car is a beautifully crafted, wonderfully photographed book that will either rekindle or reaffirm your love for cars.
Photography
James Mann is one of the world’s leading car and motorcycle photographers, with more than 20 years of experience shooting for enthusiast publications, the motor industry, and businesses around the world. His work has appeared within and on the covers of more than 50 books. Mann also photographed the British Auto Legends stamps for the Royal Mail.
Author
Codling has worked in motorsports for over a decade as a journalist and broadcaster, covering sports cars in the United States before joining F1 Racing, the world’s best-selling Formula 1 magazine. He has appeared as an F1 expert on TV and radio, has hosted for Renault F1, and contributes to both Autosport and Autocar.
The Art of the Classic Sports Car: Pace and Grace is available through Amazon and Motorbooks.
The Art of the Classic Sports Car Gallery

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How Motor Oil Prices Have Changed Over 80 Years (Infographic)

How Motor Oil Prices Have Changed Over 80 Years (Infographic)

During my time at Luxury Auto Mall of Sioux Falls, our Express Lube was a happening place. We were the only game in town with a $19.95 oil change, which included a multi-point inspection, window washing, and complete interior vacuuming. We kept a steady stream of cars during the week, with a nice peak coming on Saturday mornings.
It was, in many respects, the good old days. When we finally raised the price of our oil change, a few customers groaned but would remark “it’s a wonder you were able to keep it that low for so long anyway.”
Price Jumps
Our friends at GMPartsCenter.net put together a really interesting chart documenting the prices of motor oil for the last 80 years. The chart shows pricing for conventional motor oil on a per quart basis, the lowest available today being $4.25. The pricing data was tracked down through public library records, while the inflation adjustment was done using Bureau of Labor data.
“When we put this data together, we were amazed to see relatively flat pricing for motor oil between 1934 and 2007,” says Matt Mylan, Parts Director, GMPartsCenter.net. “However, for reasons that aren’t obvious, the price of a quart of conventional motor oil has nearly doubled in the last decade compared to the historical average.”
The jump between 2009 and 2017 is interesting, especially since, after adjusting for inflation, prices stayed around $2 per quart for most of the last 80 years. Mylan doesn’t have a solid explanation for why motor oil costs twice as much as it did ten years ago, or why it held steady for so long.
“I have some theories – a regulatory change, perhaps – but it really is perplexing,” he said.
Havoline Motor Oil advertisement published in Look magazine, July 19th, 1949, Vol. 13, No. 15.
Collector’s Items
The chart also reveals how motor oil containers have changed over the years, from graphics and logos, to what the actual containers were made from.
“In the early days, motor oil was often sold in 5 gallon cans – these cans were sometimes made from metal, and sometimes had cardboard sides with a metal spigot,” Mylan said. “It took many decades to get to the plastic quart bottles we use today.”
During my time as a Service Advisor, we would often imagine how our dealership might be affected by changes in the automotive industry. One of our technicians used to joke about saving current oil containers, saying they could be worth something, someday to a collector. This chart from GMPartsCenter.net shows us we may want to save that empty bottle of Valvoline after all.
“Lately, we’ve seen oil sold in pouches,” Mylan added. “Considering how much motor oil packaging designs have changed, this chart could look really different in another 10 years.”
The chart is below with more details on the inflation and cost of oil here.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

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Audi Launches Sport Brand In New York

Audi Launches Sport Brand In New York

Quite suddenly, Audi pulled out of world endurance racing last year. This was sad for a number of reasons. They were essentially the team to beat at Le Mans for more than a decade. A number of clever people, as well as me, wondered where all the engineering talent and go fast goodies were going to end up.
Now we know: say hello to the Audi Sport brand.
Ongoing Fallout
The sadly sordid background of how this windfall of street performance goodies appeared in the first place is well known, but not really talked about. Audi is a division of Volkswagen. And a little while back, VW got caught with their hand in the cookie jar-oh who am I kidding? VW got caught blatantly cheating like a Nixon White House aide on the emissions from their diesel engines. VW got hit hard by a huge fine and was also forced to buy back all of the offending diesel cars, and replace them or refund the customer’s money.
VW’s commercial viability was suddenly as shaky as a brick house in San Francisco.
To arrest this nearly out of control fall before it resulted in a smoking crater on the desert floor, the non-indicted/fired/retired members of the VW board stood on the monetary brakes with both feet. New VW microbus? Gone. VW involvement in the World Rally Championship? Over. New up-market push? None for VW, thank you very much, leave that to our other brands. Kicking butt and taking names at Le Mans? Auf Wiedersehen Audi! But out of this gray, Germanic cloud of corporate “Wir haben uns verschraubt!!!” the gearheads of this world will now get some tasty, tasty goodies for their street Audis.
The 2018 Audi RS 5 on display at the 2017 New York Intentional Auto Show. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Motorsports Montage
At the 2017 New York International Auto Show, Audi of America rolled out the new Audi Sport brand. Audi Sport represents the best from the fabled four rings in track-tested performance. Audi Sport models aim to offer the perfect balance of driving dynamics, innovation, and quality. Over the next two years, eight new Audi Sport models are scheduled to launch in the United States.
The Audi Sport line will be part of the company’s line up in addition to the Audi R and RS factory hot rod models. The Audi Sport brand now extends to customer racing, Audi Sport collection, performance parts, and corporate motorsports. Yes, corporate motorsports. Audi isn’t running at Le Mans any longer, but they still run factory backed GT teams at places like Sebring and such.
2018 Audi RS 5. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.

Powerful Stable
The Audi Sport vehicles hitting the streets are very impressive. In addition to the newest R8 and the RS 7 models, there will be the upcoming 2017 R8 V10 Spyder. The all-new 2018 TT RS is considered part of the Audi Sport line up and, for the first time in America, the 2017 and 2018 RS 3 is launching this summer. In the first six months of 2018 the RS 5 Coupe will also debut.
The RS 5 features an all new 2.9-liter TFSI V6-biturbo engine that cranks out 450 horsepower and 443 lb-ft. of torque, scooting from 0 to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds.
Like I said, Audi Sport is also taking over responsibility for the customer racing programs. Audi Sport has developed an all-new R8 LMS GT4 race car for 2017 that was directly derived from the production R8 V10 coupe. Audi Sport says the R8 LMS GT4 is “the ideal race car for amateur campaigners in terms of purchasing price and cost of ownership.” Which is good to hear, because racing has never been exactly cheap. The new R8 LMS GT4 will roll out for its first race at the Nürburgring 24-Hour this spring – talk about diving in the deep end.
“As the halo for the Audi brand, the R and RS models embody the same history and credibility of their racecar counterparts that have won at the track, with the design and functionally that is suitable for daily use,” reads a recent press release from the automaker. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Exclusive Treatments
Along with all this hardcore racing stuff, Audi also announced the introduction of Audi Exclusive. Audi Exclusive is sort of a boutique kind of thing – well-healed customers can order a near-limitless number of ways to personalize their vehicles. You know, special colors and interiors and stuff like that. Audi Exclusive offerings are available on the A6, A7, A8, R8, and RS 5 model lines, and the Audi Collection is an (ugh!) lifestyle brand enhancement deal that offers premium items from the Audi brand.
All of this, the fast, the good, and the fashionable, will be available at Audi Sport Dealers. More than half of Audi dealers in America are now in the program with Audi Brand Specialists, specific Audi Sport training, and showrooms featuring unique Audi Sport displays.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
2018 Audi RS 5 Gallery

Photos & Source: Audi of America, Inc.

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Cadillac Super Cruise: The Next Gen Cruise Control System

Cadillac Super Cruise: The Next Gen Cruise Control System

The short story here is that Cadillac has a new “smart” cruise control system called Super Cruise. The long story is that, although that’s a pretty cool name, it’s actually the name of something aerospace engineers have been chasing for a long while now.
In the aerospace world, supercruise (in the aero parlance) is a specific set of engine performance standards that, in short, allow a plane to fly at supersonic speeds without engaging the afterburners.
This is, unsurprisingly, a very tough thing to do, and despite some very bright people working at Rolls Royce and Pratt & Whitney and Tumansky, they (and by “they” I mean Pratt & Whitney working on the F-22 program) only got it figured out around a decade ago. Cadillac’s Super Cruise (two words) is, sadly, not a thing that will help your huge American luxo-barge cruise down the interstate at roughly 700 miles an hour. Give or take.
Precise Network
Super Cruise is Cadillac’s hands-free driving technology for the highway. Caddy says that Super Cruise, unlike other driver assistance systems, will utilize two different approaches: A driver attention system and precision LiDAR map data. Super Cruise will first roll out in the 2018 Cadillac CT6 this fall. Obviously this is in response to the growing inevitability of both self driving cars, and the fact that Tesla, a direct competitor to Cadillac in many ways, has a near-self driving car of their own already on the market.
The Super Cruise system is added on to the network of cameras and radar sensors already in place on the CT6. The system aims to bring comfort and convenience for both long distance drives as well as daily commutes. It also adds automatic lane-centering to the CT6’s set of driver assistance/active safety gizmos to enable automatic control of both speed and steering during highway driving.
The most forward facing half of the Super Cruise scheme is the Driver Attention System. This portion of the system uses an inconspicuous infrared camera located on the top of the steering column, focused on the driver to monitor head position and track where the driver is looking while using Super Cruise. Cadillac points out how they are the only manufacturer to monitor driver attention to the road while their smart cruise control system is employed.
“Super Cruise is a more technologically advanced hands-free driving solution, which in terms of capability, integration, and validation is uniquely focused on customer convenience and safety,” said Johan de Nysschen, Cadillac President. Photo: Cadillac.

Ready & Alert
For example, the Driver Attention System senses if the driver has turned away from the road ahead for too long. If so, it will “prompt” the driver to pay attention. Curiously, if those first prompts do not get you to immediately refocus on the road, the Super Cruise system will continue to do the “safely steer” thing until a further escalation of alerts prompts you to resume supervision of the car.
Sadly, this is not a collection of ah-oogah horns and warning claxons sourced from WW II destroyers, which personally I would find kind of fun. No, in the case of Caddy’s Super Cruise, a steering wheel light bar guides the driver to look at the road or take back control of the wheel. Escalating levels of alerts include visual indicators in the instrument cluster, tactile alerts in Cadillac’s Safety Alert Seat, and audible alerts, if necessary. Sadly, the “tactile alerts in Cadillac’s Safety Alert Seat” do not involve direct application of high voltage shocks to your tuchus.
Oh, and here’s a fun little bit from Caddy: “In the limited event of an unresponsive driver, the Cadillac CT6 utilizes the full capability of onboard driver assistance technologies to bring the car to a controlled stop and contact OnStar to alert first responders, if necessary.” Okay, first, thank you, second, I hope it never comes to that, and third, how fun would it be to get out on a lonely road late at night and “test” this portion of the system?
2017 Cadillac CT6. Photo: Cadillac.
Cameras & Sensors
The other half of the Super Cruise system, the LiDAR map data, is pretty technically sweet.
LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging, and is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure ranges (i.e. variable distances) to anything that it’s aimed at. In the case of Caddy’s Super Cruise, that means anything in front of the car, but in the case of the American military (which is where LiDAR comes from, natch) it means anything that is down range from that missile/gun/attack helicopter/etc. that is about to get blown to Mars.
Cadillac says this is the first assisted driving technology that will use precision LiDAR map data and real-time cameras, sensors, and GPS. Basically it works like this: Data from on-board cameras, GPS, and radar sensors is used to govern steering, braking, and acceleration. On top of that, the Super Cruise system inserts more information using a LiDAR-scanned map database.
Pinpoint Accuracy
All of this combined enables it to function, but only in areas where appropriate road conditions are detected. In other words, the system is “smart” enough to know that even if the map says the road is clear and four lanes wide, it will default to what its sensor suite definitively says is out there. So no more of this “GPS says take a left and drive over the bridge” only the bridge ain’t there no more and splash-gurgle-gurgle-gurgle you drown.
Cadillac went so far as to make their own precision LiDAR maps for every mile of limited-access highway in the United States and Canada. This, combined with improved GPS accuracy, means the system is four to eight times more precise than traditional GPS alone. Super Cruise will allow hands-free driving – it is not fully autonomous, but Cadillac feels it’s the next best thing.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photo: Cadillac.
Photos & Source: Cadillac

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2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk: 707 Horsepower Kid Hauler

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk: 707 Horsepower Kid Hauler

Okay, so this should be the final installment of Dodge’s nutzoid Hellcat drivetrain we’ve previously seen installed on the Challenger and Charger. In a way, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has all the bases covered: They got your two-door coupe with the Hellcat Challenger, the practical sedan with the four-door Hellcat Charger (I know, Chargers should have two doors, and it pains me to write that), and now the ultra practical SUV with the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.
Impressive Power
In a lot of ways, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is just like a top of the line Grand Cherokee, only with a monster mill shoehorned under the hood. So trivial details like infotainment systems, the number of ways you can adjust the front seats, how many coolers you can fit in the way-back, and all that should still be the same or at least remarkably similar. Besides, that stuff is so boring to begin with – and me, like any other gearhead, will want to focus on the juicy, fast bits.
First, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is the most powerful SUV ever made. The supercharged 6.2-liter V8 plant delivers 707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft. of torque, capable of moving the 2018 Trackhawk to very high speeds. Which, indeed, it does. 60 mph comes up in a meager in 3.5 seconds, you’re doing the quarter mile in 11.6 seconds, and topping out at 180 mph. Impressive numbers to be sure, but did I mention you’re doing this in a friggin’ Jeep?!
The supercharger has a drive ratio of 2.36:1, boasts a maximum speed of 14,600 rpm, and is sealed with a premium synthetic oil. The supercharger is fed in part by a cold-air scoop in the lower front fascia, replacing the driver’s side fog lamp. Finally, a new low-temperature cooling system, consisting of a pump, reservoir, heat exchanger, and lines keep the charge air cool during more agressive driving. Intake air temperature is kept below 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) while allowing up to 30,000 liters of air flow per minute.
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s supercharged engine was manufactured with a specific focus on material composition. Only the most durable components were utilized. For example, its cast iron block features water jackets between the cylinders for optimal cooling. A forged-steel crankshaft with induction-hardened bearing surfaces was made to withstand firing pressures of nearly 1,600 psi (110 bar) – the equivalent of five family sedans standing on each piston, every two revolutions. The unique, specially tuned crankshaft damper has been burst tested to 13,000 rpm. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Transmission & Braking
Jeep says the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission and driveline components have been re-engineered to handle additional torque output with upgrades all around. And all that is good, cause that’s a lot of power, and snapping a driveline like a twig makes an awful sound. The TorqueFlite’s software takes into account variables like engine torque gradients, kick-down events, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, grade changes, friction detection, and downshift detection to determine the appropriate shift map.
But, okay, so you say you want to stop? Easy. The 60 to 0 mph braking performance happens in a scant 114 feet. There’s an all new Brembo braking system that includes the largest-ever front brakes on a Jeep. To which I say: No kidding Sherlock! The largest-ever? They’d have to be, since this thing weighs more than a half-loaded boxcar. A complete stop in only 114 feet from freeway speed? That’s a minor miracle. Brembo must have designed them with St. Peter.
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is equipped with a specialized Jeep Quadra-Trac four-wheel-drive system, which includes an electronic limited-slip rear differential and a single-speed active transfer case. The new, full-time active transfer case uses forged steel chain sprockets and a wider chain for increased durability. The differential features a revised housing design, revised ring-and-pinion tooth geometry, and a new four-point axle mounting scheme for better load distribution, additional torque capacity, and overall durability. Photo: FCA US LLC.

Driving Dynamics
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk features the Selec-Track system, with Auto, Sport, Track, Snow, and Tow modes. Depending on a driver’s needs and the terrain ahead, the individual modes alter the four-wheel-drive system, transmission, paddle shifters, electric power steering, and suspension.
Jeep says their new baby has “world-class on-road driving dynamics” and honestly, even though I’m not clear as to what that means exactly – that phrase is subjective on so many levels – I’m willing to go with it. Functionally, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is a big truck-like thing, so I’m sure any upgrade from solid beam axles to leaf springs will count as “world-class on-road driving dynamics.”
The vehicle also has a 7,200 lbs. towing capacity.
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk featuers a short- and long-arm (SLA) independent front suspension with coil springs, Bilstein adaptive damping suspension (ADS), upper- and aluminum lower-control arms (“A” arms), aluminum knuckle, aluminum clevis, and hollow stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is a multi-link design with coil spring, Bilstein ADS, aluminum lower control arm, independent upper links (tension and camber), plus a separate toe link, and a hollow stabilizer bar. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Functional Design
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is not a total sleeper though. For starters, the fascia has been redesigned and optimized for better airflow and cooling while there’s a new, unique quad-tip exhaust system. Also new are standard 20 x 10-inch titanium wheels that show off the distinctive yellow aforementioned Brembo brake calipers.
Jeep says the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk has more than 70 safety and security features. A lot of those are what you’d already expect (seatbelts, crumple zones etc.) and a bunch are also what you would expect today (Adaptive Cruise Control, Advanced Brake Assist, Blind-spot Monitoring, and the like).
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk was designed with a “driver-focused” interior in mind. Premium and soft-touch materials decorate the cabin, from the unique Light Black Chrome finishes to the carbon fiber spears. The 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen houses the Trackhawk’s exclusive Performance Pages. They show an array of timers and gauge readouts, including a new dynamometer screen to measure horsepower, torque, and gear changes. A new snapshot function allows owners to save their dynamometer data to a USB. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Top Priorities
The 7-inch instrument cluster with a centered tachometer, a 200-mph speedometer, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen with Trackhawk Performance Pages are all nice touches. But really, who cares about all that stuff? You don’t. I don’t. None of us do. What we really care about, what would draw us to the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk in the first place, is that big ol’ whompin’ stompin’ ‘Murican V8 engine.
Everything else is number two or lower.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Gallery

Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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Volvo Showcases 2018 XC60, Announces New S90 Features

Volvo Showcases 2018 XC60, Announces New S90 Features

Volvo Cars gave us a double shot at this year’s New York International Auto Show when it debuted the all-new 2018 XC60 and rolled out the 2018 S90 with new features and pricing details. The all-new XC60 is Volvo’s mid-sized version of the award winning XC90 SUV; the 2018 S90 arrives with a longer wheelbase and a 400 horsepower T8 Twin-Engine Plug-In Electric Hybrid variant.
Million Seller
The 2018 XC60 replaces the current version which has been a big seller for the Swedish automaker. The outgoing model had a nine year production run and sold over 1 million globally, 30 percent of Volvo’s total sales. So, replacing a sales winner is always a tricky thing, but Volvo thinks it has the answer with the all-new 2018 XC60.
Hammer Time
The XC60 brings the current elements of Volvo’s new design language, including Thor’s Hammer LED headlamps, soft Nappa Leather, and a 9-inch center touch screen to the mid-sized SUV market. Yeah, I’m not joking, “Thor’s Hammer LED headlamps.” That is literally what Volvo calls them, and in the Swedes case, they are not referring to the Marvel hero, but to the literal god they used to worship that Stan Lee cribbed into a comic book character.
Photo: Volvo Car Corporation.
Power & Performance
The T8 Twin Engine Plug-In Electric Hybrid XC60 will offer up 400 horsepower. I’m figuring that’s 400 ponies in total (gas engine + hybrid drive), but it’s still nothing to sneeze at. There is also a gas-powered T6 turbo-and-super charged engine, cranking out 316 horsepower and a T5 turbo engine that will deliver 250 horsepower. All of them seem like good choices.
Safety & Security
There are the standard and now expected safety geegaws loaded onto the XC60. Volvo’s signature City Safety system is in place and Steer Assist has been added. A new feature called Oncoming Lane Mitigation employs the new Steer Assist to lessen the chances of a head-on collision. Steer Assist is also incorporated into Volvo’s Blind Spot Indication System (BLIS (ugh!)) to reduce the risk of lane-changing collisions.
Another “assist” thingo is Pilot Assist. This is Volvo’s advanced, semi-autonomous driver assistance system, which takes care of steering, acceleration, and braking on well-marked roads up to 80 mph. Pilot Assist is available in the new XC60 as an option.
Photo: Volvo Car Corporation.

S90 Treatments
The new Volvo S90, on the other hand, enters its second year of production featuring mainly enhancements, rather than an entirely new design. A longer wheelbase is now standard, adding 4.5 inches of legroom. In addition to more room, the back seat was completely redesigned so passengers can travel in luxury and elegance. There are also new electric rear and side shades, I’m assuming to block out any unwanted views of the masses.
The panoramic sunroof is standard.
Motivational power is provided from one of three engine choices: A T8 Twin Engine Plug-In Electric Hybrid propulsion system with 400 horsepower, a gas-powered T6 with a turbo and super charger creating 316 horsepower, and a T5 turbo engine registering 250 horsepower.
There’s now an updated Sensus Connect Touchscreen interface for the S90 that first debuted in the XC60. Safety features include Oncoming Lane Mitigation, BLIS (ugh again!) with steering assist, and an updated City Safety system. Volvo says pricing for the 2018 S90 T5 Momentum will start at $48,100, while the S90 T6 starts at $54,100. The T8 Twin Engine Plug-In Electric Hybrid starts at $63,650.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photo: Volvo Car Corporation.
Photos & Source: Volvo Car Corporation

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Amazon Now Delivers To Late Model GM Vehicles

Amazon Now Delivers To Late Model GM Vehicles Amazon Key is now available nationwide to some seven million owners of eligible Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles. Amazon Key allows packages to be delivered inside the vehicle, which comes at no additional cost for Amazon Prime members with an active OnStar account.
So far, the service is available in 37 cities with more expected to follow.
“Partnering with Amazon to leverage our embedded in-vehicle connectivity gives Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac owners the option to conveniently receive deliveries inside their vehicle parked at home, work or near other locations in their Amazon address book,” explained Alan Batey, President, General Motors North America. “This is another example of how we provide customers with technologies that add value and enhance the ownership experience.”
With Amazon Key In-Car Delivery, packages can be delivered to a vehicle when it’s parked in a publicly accessible area, such as on the street, at a workplace, in a parking lot or in a driveway. Delivery is available on tens of millions of items sold via Amazon and works with Same Day, Two-Day, and Standard Shipping.
“At Amazon, we are always working to make our customers’ lives easier and we’re excited to bring in-car delivery to Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac owners,” added Peter Larsen, Vice President of Delivery Technology, Amazon. “Prime members now have another way to ensure their packages are safe and secure – all for no additional cost.”
To activate the service, customers can download the Amazon Key App which will link their Amazon and OnStar accounts. Once a delivery location has been registered, customers select the “In-Car” delivery option at checkout. Additional delivery addresses can be added at any time. Customers receive a notification when the delivery is en route, after it’s made, and after the vehicle is relocked.
Amazon Key In-Car Delivery requires a 2015 or newer Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac vehicle.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.

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2019 Cadillac XT4 Aimed At “Next Generation” of Customers

2019 Cadillac XT4 Aimed At “Next Generation” of Customers Cadillac goes small. I know, for a lot of people, that’s a bad thing to read. Remember when Caddy put out the Catera and the Cimarron? Yeah, those weren’t just bad cars, they were pathetic Cadillacs. Not so with the XT4, an all-new, compact SUV fitted for the next-gen of luxury customers.
It looks like fairly recently, someone, somewhere within the confines of the Cadillac office in New York City (did you know they were based there?) realized that simply telling people you’re the “standard of the world” is just the start. You can’t just say it, you have to do it. And, thankfully, Caddy seems to be doing it these days.
It’s hard to argue with rides like V-Series CTSs and stuff like that, and with everyone obligated to make a whole range of SUVs, Caddy has finally grabbed the last niche in that world too. The XT4 was ushered into existence by a team of young designers, a smooth move since “the young” are the heart of the XT4’s target demographic. The XT4 (although a bland and hopeless name) is part of Cadillac’s new “Y” trim strategy of Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport models, said to offer distinctive styling and trim finishes.
Photo: Cadillac.
Interior Highlights
It breaks down like this: The XT4 Luxury has Light Platinum/Jet Black with Aluminum Metallized decor trim; the XT4 Premium Luxury gets Jet Black with Diamond-Cut Aluminum, Light Platinum/Jet Black with Linear Galaxy High-Gloss Wood, or Sedona/Jet Black with Fineline Calico High-Gloss Wood. The XT4 Sport gets lots of black and chrome bits: Jet Black with Cinnamon Accents with Twenty-Two High-Gloss Carbon Fiber, Light Wheat/Jet Black with Red Accents and Morello Red High-Gloss Carbon Fiber, or Sedona/Jet Black with Fineline Calico High-Gloss Wood.
The XT4’s cabin is all sweeping arcs and tapered lines to give it a taut, tightly-wrapped appearance. Even though it’s compact, the XT4 offers lots of space, especially for rear passengers, along with 48.9 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats folded. Other interior elements of note are the three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel, the heavily-bolstered, sport-inspired seats (with a massage feature), available white ambient lighting, and Cadillac’s first rotary controller for various vehicle features.
Photo: Cadillac.
Tech Treatments
Naturally, since this is a Cadillac for 2019, there is a boatload of tech. The XT4 comes with the brand’s most advanced infotainment interface with smartphone-like controls and improved voice recognition, and there’s an available 4G LTE connection to boot. There’s an eight-inch diagonal screen, near-Field Communication for pairing a smartphone, a 15-watt wireless charging system, four standard USB ports, and three 12-volt accessory power outlets. There is even an SD memory card reader in the center console and a full suite of active safety features.
Power & Performance
The Cadillac XT4 gets an all-new, 2.0-liter turbo engine that puts out 118.5 horsepower per liter of output. Which is, to use the technical term, a lot. No word on how much boost that turbo is cranking out, but to get those numbers Caddy must be squeezing those cylinders till they squeal. The plant also has high and low valve lift and Active Fuel Management, which is essentially a cylinder deactivation system. When you add in the direct injection, active thermal management, and the twin-scroll turbocharger, the mill puts out an SAE-certified 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque.
Power is put to the pavement (you’re going to seriously off-road this thing, are you?) through a nine-speed automatic that helps the XT4 get 30 mpg on the highway.
Photo: Cadillac.
Chassis & Suspension
The chassis work is done by a strut-type front suspension and a five-link independent setup out back. The standard Driver Select Mode allows you to tune that as you see fit for different driving styles and road conditions. The twin-clutch all-wheel drive system offers a decoupling function to eliminate drivetrain friction and enhance efficiency. The Continuous Damping Control, found on the XT4 Sport’s available Active Sport Suspension, uses electronic sensors to monitor the road and adjust damping every two milliseconds.
Stopping is done via “electro-hydraulic braking assist,” a first for Cadillac. The new brake system replaces the traditional vacuum-assisted design to improve fuel economy and provide better packaging, according to Cadillac.
Pricing & Availability
The XT4 starts at $35,790, which is not bad at all, and goes on sale this fall. When it hits the lot, the 2019 XT4 will come in eight exterior colors.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
2019 Cadillac XT4 Gallery

Photos & Source: Cadillac.

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Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY Set For Global Debut

Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY Set For Global Debut The Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY race car will make its global debut in Berlin ahead of the ABB FIA Formula E-Prix, with a demonstration lap planned for Saturday, May 19th at the Tempelhof circuit. The event will take place during the Berlin E-Prix with the driver to be announced in the near future. Up to 20 eTROPHY racers will appear on the grid from the start of the 2018/19 series of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship.
The eTROPHY is based on the Jaguar I-PACE, which made its debut in Geneva earlier this year.
Testing & Development
Jaguar Racing has performed development tests with Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) in Warwickshire, UK, to engineer and refine the production-based race cars. The tests covered everything from the chassis setup and powertrain performance, to energy management and aerodynamics tuning. The eTROPHY development car has also completed its first run at Jaguar Land Rover’s test track in Gaydon, England and initial tire tests with Championship Partner, Michelin in Ladoux, France.
“We are excited to reveal the new Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY race car in Berlin and demonstrate its dynamic capabilities for the first time,” said James Barclay, Team Director, Jaguar Racing. “The team at Jaguar Racing and Special Vehicle Operations are building the key foundations for the incredibly exciting championship and we are pleased with the progress of our test and development program, which has included a successful tire test with our partner Michelin.”
Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY. Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Partnerships & Expansion
Jaguar Racing have enlisted MS-RT, the race technology division of M-Sport, as the technical operations partner for the eTROPHY. Current partner, Williams Advanced Engineering, will support the eTROPHY series in various technical areas including vehicle control systems.
The full race calendar will be revealed later this year with further news on eTROPHY teams to be announced shortly.
“We are really happy with the way the championship is progressing, and we are attracting more interest from teams around the world who want to be involved in this pioneering championship,” Barclay said. “We would also like to welcome M-Sport, who bring a wealth of experience, expertise and professionalism to the team as technical operations partner for the eTROPHY.”
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.

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2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SE AWD Review

2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SE AWD Review
If you want efficiency, the RAV4 Hybrid is a fuel-stingy model for urban commuters. Don’t think that hybrid means slow on the go either. It’s peppy and has quick acceleration. With its hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive, it’s almost in a class by itself.
This week, we drove the 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SE AWD.
What’s New For 2018
The Hybrid can now be had in an LE base trim, further lowering its point of entry, while an Adventure trim is available for the first time. The SE also gains 0.4-inches of ground clearance.
Features & Options
The 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SE AWD ($32,185) comes standard with a seven-inch touchscreen, heated outside mirrors, smartphone app integration, and satellite radio. It also comes with new safety systems like Pre-Collision, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Keeping Assist, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control.
The SE adds sportier suspension tuning, 18-inch wheels, special exterior styling, and blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems. SE trims also get automatic LED headlights, LED running lights and taillights, a height-adjustable power lift gate, an eight-way power driver’s seat with lumbar adjustments, and heated front seats.
The Advanced Technology package ($2,785) added a bird’s-eye view parking camera, Entune Premium Audio with navigation and app suite, and for the SE, the parking sensors and auto-dimming mirror. Total MSRP on this Hybrid tester, including destination: $36,085.

Interior Highlights
The RAV4 cabin offers plenty of room with some soft-touch surfaces, but there are a lot of hard plastic areas. The instrument panel holds the digital display and a seven-inch touchscreen; the climate and audio controls are easy to figure out. The driver gets a car-like seating position on a fairly comfortable SofTex faux leather seat. Visibility is good in the RAV4 even with its raked roofline.
In the rear, passengers get enough room for three adults, but they may find the rear bench a little flat and hard for extended trips. The kids won’t notice a thing. The seat backs do recline and fold forward, making it a good cargo-hauling machine.
The large rear doors make it easy for adults to slide in and to load larger items. Cargo volume is cavernous: 38.4 cubic feet with all seats up, and 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The RAV4 is an ultra-practical small SUV for families with kids and dogs.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
This RAV4 hybrid is powered by a 154 horsepower, 2.5-liter engine coupled with the latest generation of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system. The RAV4 Hybrid delivers a total combined output of 194 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard on the Hybrid, with a separate electric motor driving the rear wheels.
The new RAV4 Hybrid is more powerful than the standard models but still delivers an EPA-rated 34/33 city/highway and 32 combined mpg.

Driving Dynamics
When we “pushed” the push-button start there was just deafening quiet. We had to check to see if the RAV4 had really started! Once we got underway, the RAV4 Hybrid was responsive and had more power at takeoff than many of the gas-only competitors. The SE has firmer damping in the shock absorbers, but you can barely feel it. The ride is still good.
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid can accelerate up to 20 mph on battery power alone, if driven mildly like we did through the parking lot this week. After that, the gas engine kicks in. If you aren’t real easy on the pedal, the gas engine is likely to kick in below 10 mph. We had fun playing with it to see how far we could get on battery power alone. We then pushed it hard up I-70 into the mountains west of Denver and it had plenty of power. Although, typical of Toyota hybrids, the gasoline engine connected to the Electronic CVT produces quite a howl when accelerating hard.
We had the option of shifting the transmission into EV, ECO, and Sport modes. Around town in heavy traffic, EV works well for saving fuel, ECO otherwise for most city driving, and Sport as we got onto the highway. Each serves their specific driving style and worked well. Responses are a bit sharper in Sport mode, as the transmission makes downshifts smoother by blipping the throttle momentarily.
Conclusion
The 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SE AWD offers ample interior space and a powerful, yet fuel-stingy drivetrain. It comes with Toyota’s reputation for reliability and has loads of standard safety features. It offers families a fuel-efficient city hauler with all-weather capability.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Gallery

2018 Toyota RAV4 Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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New Study: Pet Owners Worry About Safety, Can Automakers Respond?

New Study: Pet Owners Worry About Safety, Can Automakers Respond? Here at this publication, we love animals as much as we love cars. However, a new study from Volvo found some pet owners are hesitant to take a road trip with their best friend. Volvo Reports: Dogs, Cars and the People Who Love Them was recently conducted online by Harris Poll on behalf of Volvo among 2,000 U.S. adults ages 18 and above, including 1,342 pet owners.
“Our survey showed that pet parents want to travel with their furry friends, but worry about safety,” explained Jim Nichols, Product and Technology Communications Manager, Volvo Car USA.
Survey Says
The study found that more than a third (38 percent) of millennial pet owners worry about driving with their dog. Among all demographics, nearly a quarter (24 percent) say they keep their dog at home because of safety concerns. Not surprisingly, a majority of Americans (69 percent) view their pets as family members, with millennials being the most pet-conscious generation. Over 50 percent of millennial respondents said they buy better food for their dog than themselves. Nearly 50 percent said they would decline a night out if it meant leaving their dog at home.
“Overall, there is an awareness opportunity among pet parents,” Nichols said. “I was most surprised that nearly one in four would leave their dog home on long trips for fear about their safety.”
Addressing The Hype
In 2011, the Center for Pet Safety began crash testing pet safety products and launched a certification program for harnesses, crates, and carriers. The certification and crash testing programs, carried out by MGA Research Corporation, are voluntary and a rating is assigned accordingly. Passing products are given a designated seal for packaging.
We did a special report on the science of pet safety last year and were amazed at how easily consumers can be mislead. Often times, pet safety products hardly live up to their claims. In fact, during crash testing with a “dummy dog,” some of the products outright failed, leading to injury and certain death for the animal. The Center for Pet Safety published the results of their controlled testing, complete with videos and an analysis of the data. The videos are hard to stomach if you’re a pet lover.
“The pet products industry is a 70 billion dollar, highly unregulated industry,” explained Lindsey Wolko, Founder of the Center for Pet Safety. “When it comes to marketing it’s the Wild West.”
In a controlled crash test conducted by the Center for Pet Safety, a commonly sold dog restraint fails and launches the test puppy from the seat. Photo: Center for Pet Safety.
Essential Insights
Wolko advises consumers be mindful, even if pet safety products say “crash tested” or advocate to be in the pet’s best interest.
“The idea that properly secured pets are uncomfortable if restrained is a dangerous marketing tactic,” she said. “We have scientifically proven that extension tethers and ziplines increase the risk of injury to both the human passengers and their pets. This is a very real danger for pet owners who buy into the marketing hype behind a product.”
“Not only is the safety for your pets important but also the safety of everyone in the car,” explained Lauren Witt, a Detroit-based Automotive Product Specialist who works with major manufacturers. “If your dogs are not properly secured and have the ability to roam around, they could be a huge distraction for the driver.”
In Volvo’s survey, 97 percent admit to unsafe driving habits with their pets, including 48 percent who do not own any pet-specific safety gear. Another 41 percent let their dog ride in the front seat while only a mere five percent have a built-in pet safety system for their vehicle.
“Some pet owners seem to think their pets are immune to danger,” Wolko said. “Not that we wish this on anyone, but if they experienced what the people who have contacted us to report injuries and deaths of pets in car crashes have, we would have a much higher percentage who protect their pets while traveling.”

Meaningful Solutions
71 percent of respondents felt automakers should proactively include more pet-friendly safety features into their vehicles, especially for dogs. Another 46 percent believe vehicle manufacturers that do not offer these features do not care enough about pet safety.
“I wouldn’t say they don’t care – I think it’s just something that was never emphasized in the industry,” Witt said. “The automotive industry is always evolving and manufacturers are always trying to stay up-to-date and ahead of the game when it comes to safety.”
“We have to ensure the solutions are real and meaningful,” Wolko added. “I’ve seen several vehicle manufacturers offer travel ‘solutions’ for pets that were a joke – simply a marketing tactic. That’s not what we need.”
Volvo has pioneered a number of safety innovations – the iconic three-point seat belt, for example – and is examining what the survey’s results ultimately mean. Volvo already has pet safety accessories that directly tie into the vehicle, including a dog harness and gate, load compartment divider, and protective steel grill. The automaker says their safety systems work in unison to ensure occupants, furry or otherwise, are protected as much as possible.
“All accessories must past strict quality and testing requirements set by the company; the dog gate, divider, and rear grill are made of high-strength steel,” Nichols explained. “Volvo is the only manufacturer that has been developing protective steel grills and dog gates for over 20 years to keep pets in place in the event of an accident.”
Volvo’s pet safety products are available through the company’s retailers in the U.S. and Canada. Photo: Volvo Car USA.
Ongoing Work
Wolko notes that Volvo’s survey is revealing, but not necessarily surprising and believes more needs to be done. The Center for Pet Safety continues to team with vehicle brands in the interest of creating truly safe products for pet parents. She is optimistic that automakers can rise to the challenge, but has some reservations.
“The work we do at the Center for Pet Safety focuses on the aftermarket products for a reason, and I honestly feel the aftermarket brands that have achieved CPS Certification are far ahead of the vehicle manufacturers,” Wolko explained. “There are so many challenges for a vehicle manufacturer – their primary responsibility is to the safety of the human passenger – and that’s where the regulations around safety stop. The reality is that pet safety is not likely to be regulated.”
“Hopefully this survey will make manufacturers more aware of the importance of pet safety to their consumers,” Witt added. “It is worrisome there are not a lot of safe options for pet travel.”
How pet safety products are engineered and designed ultimately determines if they will be effective in protecting our furry family members. However, Wolko stresses the importance of communication and goes back to the marketing angles that ultimately influence buying decisions. She believes in this area automakers can truly set an example.
“Ideally, I’d like to tweak a few things in vehicles, but until we build consensus across the automotive industry it is unlikely to be a universal change,” Wolko said. “It’s important to focus on indirect messages of safety when pets are featured in vehicle commercials – they need to be properly secured while featured in those commercials. It doesn’t mean you lose the humor and charm of the commercial, but instead it becomes a familiar visual and an emotional element: it’s an ‘I protect you because I love you’ story in these commercials.”
“As shown in this survey, pets are part of the American family and we seek to protect what is important to those that drive a Volvo car,” Nichols added.

Future Considerations
The pet survey is the first in a series of Volvo Reports from the automaker and Harris Poll meant to examine the American opinion across four central automotive themes: design, safety, technology, and environment. While universal change with regard to pet safety and the automotive industry may seem a slow process, Volvo’s survey is promising. It shows how automakers need to remember our pets when designing future vehicles, and it shows an increasing awareness for the lovable creatures in our life.
“It makes me happy that a lot of people do take pet safety into consideration,” Witt said. “The best advice I could give is to make sure you think about your pets first.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

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