Automotive

Inside The 2018 Jeep Wrangler

Inside The 2018 Jeep Wrangler

The veil came off the 2018 Jeep Wrangler at the Los Angeles Auto Show, a vehicle that continues the brand’s lineage of off-road performance. The Wrangler 2-door is available in three different trims: Sport, Sport S, and Rubicon. The 4-door variant is available in those three as well, but adds a Sahara grade.
“Jeep has always represented the ultimate in capability and open-air freedom, and our all-new 2018 Wrangler protects that important legacy and takes it into the future,” explained Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global.
Manley summed up the new Jeep by saying it’s instantly recognizable but still holds true to its roots. The new Wrangler endured some of the most rigorous testing ever done by FCA, logging nearly 4 million miles in extreme weather conditions from Arizona to Alaska for months on end. Global testing consisted of locations in China, Brazil, India, Australasia, and Italy. It’s arguably the most well-equipped Wrangler in history – here is a detailed look at this machine from top to bottom.
Off-Road Prowess
With Jeeps the discussion starts where the pavement ends. The 2018 Wrangler is no exception, with dynamic 4×4 systems for all types of terrain. The Selec-Trac full-time, two-speed transfer case (a Wrangler first) seamlessly sends power to the front and rear wheels with no driver input. The Command-Trac 4×4 system features a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, and next-generation solid Dana front and rear axles with a 3.45 ratio. By comparison, Wrangler Rubicons get a Rock-Trac 4×4 system with heavy duty, next-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles, and a “4LO” ratio of 4:1. A 4.10 front and rear axle ratio is standard along with Tru-Lok locking differentials.
Both Command-Trac and Rock-Trac systems offer full-time torque management for additional grip and traction. An available Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential is available for those routinely driving through sand, gravel, mud, snow or ice. Articulation and suspension travel improve with an electronic sway-bar disconnect.
Crawl ratio on the Wrangler Rubicon with the standard six-speed manual improves to 84.2:1. By comparison, Wrangler Rubicon models with the new eight-speed automatic have a 77.2:1 crawl ratio; Rubicons get 33-inch tires standard. Overall, the approach angle is 44 degrees, breakover angle is 27.8 degrees, departure angle is 37 degrees, and the ground clearance is 10.9 inches with up to 30 inches of water fording capability.
Photo: FCA US LLC.
Engine Lineup
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler will offer three different powertrains, including an upgraded version of FCA’s evergreen 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. The engine creates 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. of torque with an Engine Stop-Start function. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 and an entirely new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder are also available – and here is where it gets really interesting with regard to engine specifications.
Although it won’t be available until 2019, Wrangler 4-door buyers can opt for the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel with new turbocharging technology. The engine adds low-friction pistons to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Combustion optimization is aided by new injector nozzles, piston bowl, and glow plugs with integrated combustion pressure sensors. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel, paired with the eight-speed automatic transmission, makes 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft. of torque.
The new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder with eTorque technology makes 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. This plant is also mated to the new eight-speed automatic. The eTorque system is worth noting in that it functions like a hybrid. The technology employs auto stop/start, electric power assist, extended fuel shut-off, transmission shift management, intelligent battery charging, and regenerative braking to improve efficiency and performance.
Digging deeper, Jeep’s turbo plant is characterized by a twin-scroll, low-inertia turbocharger with an electronically actuated waste gate. The turbo is integrated with the cylinder head to improve longevity while a dedicated cooling circuit cuts the temperature of the intake air, throttle body, and the turbocharger itself. Direct injection enters the mix for additional performance, and a beefed-up fuel pump supplies the engine’s 2,900-psi high-pressure common-rail injection system. This makes for better fuel atomization and more precise fuel delivery when compared to port fuel-injection. Other technological high points on the engine come in the way of a dual overhead cam design with dual independent camshaft timing, and a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (C-EGR) system.
Photo: FCA US LLC.

Transmission Tech
The aforementioned six-speed manual transmission is standard on all Wrangler models equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. New gear ratios (4.41 ratio spread) improve crawl performance while a revised gear layout and cable-operated design reduce noise, vibration, and harshness. Jeeps says the manual has a more comfortable shifting position and 50 percent shorter throws than the outgoing Wrangler for quicker acceleration and smoother shifts.
The eight-speed automatic was developed with all types of driving in mind. Jeep says it’s available on all Wrangler models and provides efficient, linear power delivery on the highway and over the trails. The auto box features a 4.7:1 first gear ratio and a 4.1:1 final drive ratio to balance acceleration and efficiency. There are two overdrive ratios and specific design characteristics within the transmission to again reduce noise, vibration, and harshness.
Essential Foundations
The engines and transmissions available for the new Wrangler go for a balance of performance and efficiency. Jeep’s body-on-frame approach is also striving for balance, providing enough rugged capability for the trails while keeping in mind things like ride, fuel economy, occupant safety, and comfort. Weight reduction was priority: high-strength aluminum closures, including the doors, door hinges, hood, fender flares, windshield frame, and a magnesium swing gate are found on the new Wrangler. Further weight savings comes from the hollow track and stabilizer bars, aluminum engine mounts and steering gear, and a revised master cylinder.
The five-link coil suspension returns, a configuration Jeep says is long proven. The front suspension consists of a lateral control arm, four longitudinal control arms, and full-width, forged steel track bars. The combination controls the axle’s lateral movement while keeping the angle changes to a minimum during off-road use. The raised roll center height and revised spring rates make for a better ride Jeep says. Out back, the five-link rear suspension contains two upper and two lower forged steel control arms and a track bar for lateral axle control. The control arms are located outside the frame rails; the rear shocks are splayed (angled inboard at the top) to provide consistent damping.
Finally, four different skid plates and bars are strategically positioned underneath to protect the fuel tank, transfer case, and the automatic transmission’s oil pan. Rubicon models even have heavy gauge tubular steel rock rails for added protection. Pretty nifty!
Photo: FCA US LLC.
Exterior & Interior Design
The new Wrangler follows the traditional Jeep design cues, especially when considering the vehicle’s overall aesthetic theme. It does, however, have a wider stance, lowered beltline, and larger windows for better outward visibility. The seven-slot grille returns (each slot represents one of the seven continents to show Jeep’s universal capability) but was modified to resemble the classic CJ with the outer slats intersecting the headlights.
The grille was positioned for better aerodynamic performance as was the windshield. A unique four bolt design at the top of the windshield’s frame allows it to fold down easily; a new header bar now connects the A-pillars and stays put even with the windshield down. This means the rearview mirror can remain in place with the windshield folded. Dozens of different door, top, and windshield combinations are available; a new half-door design will arrive in 2019. Jeep says the Sky One-Touch powertop feature, available in the second quarter of 2018, allows occupants to “retract the full-length open canvas roof with a push of a button.”
Designers wanted the interior to feel versatile, stylish, and intuitive with higher quality yet softer touch materials throughout. The center stack leans more vintage but compliments the redesigned center console where the gear shifter, transfer case, and parking brake reside. The essential controls, including the climate and volume settings, charging and connectivity ports, and push-button start are all within reach. There are plenty of storage pockets for personal items as well.
Owners can choose between cloth or leather-contoured seats with accent stitching, adjustable bolsters, and lumbar support. The seats, along with the steering wheel, can be heated if buyers so choose. The door trim panels are softer to the touch and the arm rests are even a little longer. The latest generation of FCA’s Uconnect system is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible, with a number of other entertainment and navigation features. The new Uconnect platform promises enhanced processing power, faster startup times, and sharper graphics.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler is expected in January with pricing information forthcoming. Jeeps have been assembled in Toledo, Ohio for over 75 years, beginning with the Willys-Overland military models. The Jeep Wrangler was added to the Toledo portfolio in 1992, with more than 2 million Wranglers having rolled off the line since then.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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2017 Los Angeles: The Mazda6 finally gains turbocharged power

2017 Los Angeles: The Mazda6 finally gains turbocharged power After years of soldiering on with only naturally-aspirated four-cylinder, the 2018 Mazda6 finally gains turbo power.
What’s going on?
Ever since the current and excellent Mazda6 sedan came out back in 2012, it only came in America with a sole 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated SKYACTIV-G gasoline four-cylinder. After what seems like much begging and expressed desire to fit the Mazda6 with the latest turbo-four found in the current CX-9, Mazda finally answered that call.
Revealed at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show, Mazda introduced some major updates to the 2018 Mazda6 flagship sedan. One of those changes includes a new option for turbo power!

The Mazda6 gets blown
As we hoped, the new Mazda6 can now be equipped with the same 2.5-liter turbocharged SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder that debuted in the current CX-9 crossover, all 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, on 93 octane. Mazda says the engine produces 227 horsepower on regular 87, but why would you want to do that?
Unfortunately, Mazda only offers a six-speed automatic with the 2.5-liter four. Though the company says that its torque converter remains locked throughout most of its function, providing a more connected feel between the drivetrain and the automatic.
There are chassis and suspension tweaks too
To handle the extra power, Mazda also applied some tweaks and adjustments to the chassis and suspension. For instance, the Mazda6 benefits from chassis and body reinforcements in the form of thicker sheetmetal in the rear wheel wells, extra bracing, and larger suspension trailing link mounts to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness levels and increase overall stiffness. The suspension geometry is revised to accommodate the extra power and reinforcements, which Mazda promises a smoother and more refined ride with improved handling dynamics.
The exterior and interior gain updates as well

Ushering in the new turbocharged engine and other revisions underneath the Mazda6’s skin are changes to the interior and exterior presentations as well. For instance, the infotainment screen is reconfigured, featuring a 7.0-inch TFT gauge display for upper-tier trims.
The seats and dashboard are also redesigned for a refreshed appearance and look, though the Mazda6’s easy, simple, and smart layout remains. The changes all appear to give the Mazda6 a more upscale appearance and look, reflecting the company’s new motives to move more upmarket.
The 2018 Mazda6 is due to go on sale in spring of 2018.
– By: Chris Chin
2017 LA: 2018 Mazda6 Photo Gallery

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2017 Los Angeles: The 2018 Nissan Kicks replaces the Nissan Juke

2017 Los Angeles: The 2018 Nissan Kicks replaces the Nissan Juke Nissan revealed its far more conservative replacement for the quirky, odd, and fun Juke compact crossover in Los Angeles.
What’s going on?
Nissan seized the spotlight of the 2017 Los Angeles International Auto Show to reveal an all-new replacement for the beloved Juke entry-level crossover. Meet the 2018 Nissan Kicks, a far more vanilla and toned-down compact crossover. It’s the first model to receive a new name in Nissan’s lineup in over eight years, joining the company’s current line of crossovers, comprising of the Murano, Rogue, and Rogue Sport.
“As the gateway to Nissan’s adventure-ready sport-utility portfolio – joining Rogue Sport, Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder and Armada – Kicks is designed to fit the needs of singles or couples looking for expressive styling, personal technology, smart functionality and advanced safety features at an affordable price starting well under $19,000,” said Dan Mohnke, senior vice president of Nissan USA’s sales and marketing operations.

The 2018 Nissan Kicks revealed at the 2017 LA Auto Show. Photos - Nissan

What’s kickin’ with it?
Styled to mimic a Rogue, but smaller, the new Nissan Kicks embodies the company’s latest design language. For instance, the new Kicks features a two-tone paint theme that basically makes the roof appear to be “floating,” thanks to the blacked-out A-, B-, and C-pillars. Depending on the Kick’s configuration, the roof can be either color-matching to the body, or black. It also incorporates Nissan’s latest V-Motion common grille, and “boomerang” wraparound headlights.
Such design features were first featured on the latest Murano and Maxima.
As you’d expect from a crossover meant to cater to the masses and their basic needs, the Kicks, like many of its competitors, comes well-equipped with features like automatic headlights, Apple CarPlay and ANdroid Auto, an optional Bose sound system, and lots of passive and active safety assistants. FOr instance, the Kicks features an optional 360-degree camera view, dubbed Intelligent Around View Monitor.
Everything the typical and general crossover buyer needs.
Power is also in the neighborhood of everything else in its class–a 1.6-liter naturally-aspirated gasoline four, mated to a CVT automatic transmission, an arrangement lifted from the outgoing Juke. Except power is rated at 125 horsepower and 115 pound-feet of torque, versus the Juke’s 188hp and 177 lb-ft.
Pricing details aren’t yet available, though Nissan confirmed there will be three trim levels: Kicks S, Kicks SV, and Kicks SR, all with varying degrees of equipment. The pricing details will be revealed closer to the Kicks’ launch date in spring of 2018.
– By: Chris Chin
2017 Los Angeles: 2018 Nissan Kicks Photo Gallery

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2017 Los Angeles: The 755-hp 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 zooms into LA

2017 Los Angeles: The 755-hp 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 zooms into LA Chevrolet landed the most powerful, road-going Corvette yet for the first time in America at the 2017 Los Angeles International Auto Show.
What’s going on?
The 2017 Los Angeles International Auto Show is what’s going on! And Chevrolet just unveiled history’s most powerful production Corvette ever for the first time on American soil. Meet the all-new, completely bonkers 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. Originally unveiled in Dubai earlier in the month, the new ZR1 is based on the current generation C7 Corvette and is essentially a successor to the previous C6 generation’s ZR1 form 2009, a car that already boasted ridiculous performance back then.
Now, just imagine that car, except with 755 horsepower and 715 pound-feet of twist and wrapped in the C7’s latest body.

Yup, you read correctly.
The C7 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 bests the C6 ZR1’s performance by 117 horses and 111 torques. The new ZR1 is propelled by Chevrolet Performance’s latest LT5 motor, the company’s most powerful production engine yet. It is based off of the Z06’s 6.2-liter LT4 V8. But now, it features an all-new supercharger that’s more efficient with airflow. It continues to be intercooled, offering a total 52 percent more air displacement volume than the Z06 LT4’s setup. General Motors also fitted its first duel-injector fuel delivery system, offering both port and direct injection for optimal fuel atomization.
The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 could be equipped with either a seven-speed manual or an eight-speed paddle-shift automatic, making it the first ZR1 to offer such. Chevrolet didn’t reveal official performance figures just yet, except that they were able to crack a top speed of 210 mph. But to put things in perspective, the last-generation Corvette ZR1 took only 3.3 seconds to hit 60 from a standstill with a top sprint of around the 200 mph mark.
So figure since the new ZR1 has a heck of a ton more power, the new car should be considerably faster in getting to the top.

There’s a wind-tunnel-designed bodykit that can provide up to 950 pounds of downforce at speed.
Being a performance benchmark for not just Corvette lineup, but Chevrolet in general, the ZR1 also boasts even more impressive speed numbers all around than the outgoing model. This comes thanks to significant reengineering of the ZR1’s bodykit, designed specifically for boosting grip with the help of downforce at speed. But the improved aerodynamics aren’t just for downforce, but air-cooling efficiency as well.
For example, the front bumper’s design is specifically shaped to channel air into the engine bay for the intercooler and better overall cooling of the whopping 13 heat exchangers in total in the ZR1. You read correctly. There’s a total of 13 different individual types of radiators for keeping various parts of the car cool. There’s also an signature air duct on the hood, giving the ZR1 a very unique look when compared to other Corvettes, while also being functional.
The extra airflow also contributes to the ZR1’s on-track reliability–by keeping things cool, the ZR1 is able to sustain higher speeds and more aggressive driving for greater extended periods of time.
Laying the power to the ground is a set of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 supper tires (part of the ZTK Performance Package) while the Magnetic Ride Control gains specific tuning bespoke to the ZR1.
And rounding it all off is a new available Sebring Orange Package–a special exterior color and interior trim arrangement tailored just for the ZR1. It comes with, as you guessed, many items colored in Sebring Orange. Ranging from leather-trimmed seats with orange sueded microfiber inserts, to a Napa leather-trimmed steering wheel.
Chevrolet didn’t announce pricing just yet. But when the last Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 ended production after 2013, it last started at $113,595. Expect the new C7 ZR1 to cost around, if not slightly more, than that figure.
– By: Chris Chin
2017 LA – 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Photo Gallery

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2017 LA: 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS showcases new design direction

2017 LA: 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS showcases new design direction Mercedes-Benz reveals the next-generation CLS at the 2017 Los Angeles International Auto Show.
What’s going on?
The Mercedes-Benz CLS was revolutionary from a design aspect. Although it didn’t invent it, the CLS is strongly associated with leading the resurgence of the concept of the “four-door coupe,” dating back to the original car in 2003. Based on the E-Class sedan, but with a much sleeker, low-slung, and stretched out roofline, mimicking that of a coupe, the CLS-Class proved that practicality didn’t have to come at the expense of good looks.
Now, Mercedes-Benz upped their own ante by revealing the all-new, third-generation CLS at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show.

2017 LA: The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS. Photos - Mercedes-Benz

It’s beautiful. What’s new about it?
I know, we think so as well. Like previous iterations of the CLS, the latest model remains based off of the E-Class sedan. It features a new design as well, one that’s much cleaner with less curves, folds, and creases, as the outgoing model. It also resembles some of the latest design cues we’ve seen on existing greats like the S-Class and E-Class Coupe. For instance, the new CLS incorporates Merc’s latest corporate “diamond” grille, a feature bespoke only to Mercedes-Benz’s coupe offerings. The frameless doors also remain, as does the high-arched waste line.
“The new CLS is a design icon as the archetype of the four-door coupe. In line with our hot & cool design philosophy, we have reduced its DNA to an extremely puristic level while emotionally charging its beauty,” said Gorden Wagener, Daimler AG’s Chief Design Officer.
On the inside, the CLS now employs the same digital, 12.3-inch LCD displays in place of traditional gauges, similarly to the latest E-Class sedan and coupe, and S-Class sedan and coupe. Also carrying over are other fancy bits found on the aforementioned cars, such as the 64-color adjustable ambient lighting, and a dashboard that offers enough timber to build a house.
Returning to the inline-six
What’s a huge party piece for the CLS however is its engine. For the first time in almost 20 years, Mercedes-Benz is making an all-new gasoline inline-six, which made its debut on the latest CLS. displacing 3.0-liters, it’s rated at 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of twist, with a special electric “boost” function that offers an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of twist.
The CLS 450 comes with the choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Mercedes-Benz didn’t publish any official performance numbers as of yet, but we imagine the CLS 450 won’t be a slouch by any means.
New suspension too
Also aiding the CLS 450’s introduction as a new car is a revised suspension setup, consisting a four-way multilink arrangement at the front, and a signature Mercedes five-way multilink rear setup. AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension is optional to help balance out body control and handling, but the CLS 450 already promises to be wonderful to drive.
Pricing isn’t yet available, though we can expect that information to surface closer to the CLS’s launch date in Fall of 2018.
– By: Chris Chin
2017 LA: 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS Photo Gallery

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Special Edition GMC Yukon Revealed Amid Luxury & Ice Cream

Special Edition GMC Yukon Revealed Amid Luxury & Ice Cream

GMC showcased the 2018 Yukon Denali Ultimate Black Edition ahead of the Los Angeles Auto Show. The new Yukon Denali offers black-painted 22-inch wheels with chrome inserts, polished exhaust tips, chrome mirror caps, carpeted floormats, and a unique Onyx Black exterior paint. GM’s “special editions” are a reoccurring theme throughout the company, especially for Chevrolet, where the popular trims extend beyond SUVs and to the 1500 series and HD trucks.
“The Yukon Denali has always made a bold and powerful statement, and the Ultimate Black Edition takes that expression to a new level,” explained Stu Pierce, Senior Marketing Manager, GMC Trucks and Full-Size SUVs.
Essential Equipment
Buyers automatically get the Open Road Package, which consists of a nine-month trial of Sirius XM and NavTraffic, power sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system, and the Enhanced Security Package. The latter includes door and liftgate lock shields, glass breakage sensors, interior motion detectors, a self-powered horn, and vertical movement sensors. Power-Retractable Assist Steps and Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Automatic Braking finish off the package.
Inside, the Yukon Denali Ultimate Black Edition is trimmed in Mastique Ash for added richness and luxury. Under the hood resides a 6.2-liter V8 mated to a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
2018 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate Black Edition. Photo: GMC.
GMC In LA
GMC partnered with Little Damage, a Los Angeles ice cream shop, to celebrate the debut of the new Yukon. During the course of the Los Angeles Auto Show, attendees can enjoy a special “Ultimate Black” flavor with Denali chrome chocolate chips in the charcoal cones Little Damage is famous for.
If they move this unique ice cream flavor like GM moves SUVs, expect the employees at Little Damage to be busy. 2017 has been GMC’s strongest year of Denali sales ever. Although GMC offers the trim on other vehicles, the Yukon and Yukon XL dominate the portfolio at 50.7 percent and 61.2 percent respectively. Earlier this year, the one millionth Denali sold since the premium trim was first introduced for the 1999 Yukon.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
2018 Yukon Denali Ultimate Black Edition Gallery

Photos & Source: GMC.

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Volvo Establishes Investment Fund For Tech Start-Ups

Volvo Establishes Investment Fund For Tech Start-Ups Volvo is launching a new investment fund for technology start-ups around the globe which have high potential. The new Volvo Cars Tech Fund will invest in “strategic technology trends that are transforming the industry, such as artificial intelligence, electrification, autonomous driving, and digital mobility services.” The first investment includes a California-based technology firm developing advanced sensors, underlining Volvo Cars’ continued presence in Silicon Valley.
Emerging Technologies
Volvo says recipients will benefit by being able to more efficiently validate their technologies while accelerating the time it takes to bring said technologies to market. Moreover, start-ups may have the opportunity to benefit from Volvo’s already established global network of automotive and technology partners. The Volvo Cars Tech Fund is part of a continued push for innovation by Volvo and will be instrumental, the company says, in its digital transformation.
“We seek to invest in companies that can provide us with strategic access to new technologies, capabilities, and talent,” explained Zaki Fasihuddin, Chief Executive Officer, Volvo Cars Tech Fund. “By supporting promising young firms at the forefront of technological development and providing them with both capital and strategic value, we aim to strengthen our leading role in the industry’s technological transformation.”
“We work closely with promising technologies and when we see value creation potential, we can now also invest to help accelerate the venture,” added Mats Moberg, Board Member for the Tech Fund and Vice President for R&D at Volvo Cars.
More Information
Those wanting to apply are encouraged to do so at Volvo’s official site for the fund. Volvo notes they are particularly interested in mobility apps and services, distributed ML/AI and storage, safety and security, networking and connectivity platforms, fusion and HD mapping, sensors, and drive computing.
Photo & Source: Volvo Car Group.

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2019 Infiniti QX50 Features World’s First Production Variable Compression Engine

2019 Infiniti QX50 Features World’s First Production Variable Compression Engine

Infiniti has pulled the wraps off the 2019 QX50 ahead of the Los Angeles Auto Show. Infiniti says the new crossover combines “world-first technologies, standout design, and unrivaled interior space.”
“The 2019 QX50 is the most important vehicle we have ever launched, and it embodies everything the brand stands for: Beautiful design, advanced technology and empowering performance,” said Christian Meunier, Infiniti Global Division Vice President. “As a luxury mid-size crossover, it’s the right vehicle at the right time in one of the world’s fastest growing segments.”
Power & Performance
The 2019 QX50 will be powered by the world’s first production variable compression ratio engine. Infiniti announced the engines in the summer of 2016 after working on the technology for 20 years. The QX50’s 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine adjusts its compression ratio to maximize performance and efficiency. The mindset behind the design is that it combines turbo power with diesel efficiency. Infiniti says this “challenges the notion that only hybrid and diesel powertrains can deliver high torque and efficiency.”
Solid Foundation
An entirely new front-wheel drive platform supports the 2019 QX50, and although Infiniti didn’t say specifically, we imagine this architecture is instrumental for the VC-Turbo engine’s capability. The platform was designed with an emphasis on refinement, rigidity, and interior room. Infiniti did not immediately provide dimensions, only saying the interior space is unmatched in the segment.
Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
Exterior & Interior Design
The 2019 QX50 strikes a balance between aerodynamic efficiency and Infiniti’s “Powerful Elegance” design language. The body lines are noticeable and sleek; the vehicle does have quite a bit of character. Inside, the automaker promises top grade materials and craftsmanship, a calm, connected ambiance, and driver-focused technologies, including a complete ADAS suite. Infiniti notes the importance of having a human element in the details and says the new QX50 is designed accordingly.
Pricing & Availability
Infiniti did not include either in their press materials.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
*ADAS is an acronym for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.
Photos & Source: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.

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Letter From The UK: The Meaning of Crossover

Letter From The UK: The Meaning of Crossover

Initially, my idea was to discuss and update Britain’s exit from the European Union (or Brexit as it has come to be known) and its affect on the UK car industry. Unfortunately nothing much has happened. Car manufacturers wait in exasperated anticipation while UK and EU politicians and their bully boy un-elected flunkies argue, throw their toys about, and run home crying. So instead, this week we have advertising, something else that sets my teeth on edge like fingernails scrapping down an old school blackboard.
Black Friday. We have it here too and, America, it’s your fault. Being British of course we do not fight over goods; we do not battle for that last LCD flat screen, no: We queue nicely and wait our turn to buy stuff that was probably to be found cheaper, somewhere else, prior to Black Friday. The fault lies firmly at the feet of advertising executives. In their increasing desperation to come up with new and inventive ways to sell things, advertising is getting more and more silly. Take the “crossover” car.
Cross Over
That’s what the chicken did. It’s what artistes do when they cravenly change music genres to achieve commercial success, much to the disapprobation of their fellows who failed to think of it first. It also now identifies a type of vehicle but I have no idea why.
It is frankly, daft. In British terms, a crossover is just a tall hatchback or a small SUV, depending upon who you listen to. It is in fact just a small car, inflated. Initially, I suppose, the idea was to give the impression that these motors were somehow more rugged. It patently was not true then and it is not true now. They don’t have any more ability or power and can maybe only boast a little more space than the regular small hatchback upon which they are mostly based. It is a case of style over substance.
In days gone by, car advertising was straightforward. One knew where one stood. It described the virtues of the vehicle. It told us by way of the magic of moving pictures how a particular car could improve our lives by dint of its automotive features, performance, sexiness, service intervals, and economy. Everyone was happy. The auto facts were presented. Motoring journalists plied their trade in the large halls and small bars of the world, supporting a generally robust industry.
This vintage Packard advertisement explains how the new models for 1953 have higher compression V8 engines and power steering. Packard says the new Clipper provides “big-car value at medium-car cost” because of the engineering within. As all Packard ads did at the time, it concludes with “ask the man who owns one,” meaning the brand’s reputation is best communicated by those who drive them every day.
The Influencers
Times have changed and with it, the scope of the car ad. Dusty old journalists with pipes and leather patches on their threadbare tweed jackets have given way to bright young things referred to as influencers and vloggers because every car maker in the world wants to sell to the youth of today. Even the new Aston Martin Vantage (which does not look anywhere near as elegant as its predecessor) is, by the company’s own words, aimed at younger buyers.
Young people, with no discernible creative ability other than being able to walk and talk at the same time, shoot video on a bog-standard DSLR and upload it to YouTube and are now actively being employed and paid to shoot cars in moodily visual locations without explaining how they work. And that it seems is enough. We do indeed live in a transient internet world.
TV advertising now shows us beautiful, blemish-free youth cavorting merrily in these very average “crossover” cars as if the vehicle could really make your life better in any way that matters. The message comes through the TV screen with all the subtlety of a one-ton anvil in a Roadrunner cartoon. It is obvious, it is blatant, and it seems to work. The crossover is now the most popular automotive sector in the UK. There is no longer any need to describe the engineering virtues of the vehicle, just the nebulous lifestyle connotations.
This writer is probably as guilty as the rest. Like everyone who works in today’s motor industry, I too am an influencer but only in that I help to promote products and businesses. Mind you, you don’t want me on video; that would be like getting Gabby Hayes to sell your wagon. Car advertising is changing and we change with it, at least for now, because who knows what the future holds.
Millennials are seen enjoying a late model Fiat 500X. A 2013 Adweek feature penned by David Gianatasio explains that Fiat, in an attempt to gain traction in the United States, targeted younger consumers via social media. However, Gianatasio notes many U.S. Fiat dealers felt that strategy lacked a “broad-based” approach and cites Fiat Chrysler Automobiles CEO Sergio Marchionne telling Automotive News in 2012 the initial advertising campaign was a “poorly executed plan.” Adweek ultimately concluded that Fiat “excelled at peripheral marketing programs while ignoring the bigger brand-building picture.” Photo: FCA US LLC.
Cross Over To Common Sense

At the time of this writing, a small neighbouring country is threatening to block the progress of vital trade talks in the next round of Brexit negotiations because of some local issue. That’s the thing about “communities.” When push comes to shove, we revert to the defence of our realm. Never mind the big picture; never mind the European car industry is all at sea with huge sums of money and very many jobs hanging in the balance. We await an outcome whilst third rate apparatchiks haggle over political trivialities. That’s why the whole thing has stalled.
If these people do not get off their collective euro-butt, stop scoring points, and being devious and disingenuous, and decide instead to “cross over” the line of common sense about the things that really matter, then all the advertising and all the influencing in the world won’t save the car industry. Or Europe.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite
Cover Photo: From American Motors Corporation: The Rise and Fall of America’s Last Independent Automaker by Patrick Foster. We featured the title in our Book Garage series on April 3rd, 2016.

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