Automotive

2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring Review

2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring Review

The Mazda6 Grand Touring isn’t perfect, but it might be the sportiest midsize sedan on the market. If you like to drive, Mazda knows how to entertain your passion for taking the curves a bit faster than the average commuter. This sedan also looks the part on the outside. Mazda designers cranked up their styling juices and have given the car a good dose of sleek. This vehicle is not all show either – it will also go!
What’s New For 2017
The Mazda6 gets some minor updates for 2017, including the now standard Mazda Connect infotainment system. It also gets G-Vectoring Control: computer-controlled braking of the individual wheels through corners, bringing increased stability and improved handling.
Features & Options
The 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring ($30,695) comes with 19-inch wheels, automatic wipers, advanced keyless entry, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision mitigation, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
The top-of-the-line Grand Touring also features LED foglights, automatic high beams, a rear trunklid spoiler, steering-wheel-mounted paddles shifters, a traffic sign reader with speed warnings, heads-up display, universal garage door opener, navigation, leather upholstery, and an eight-way power driver’s seat with memory functions (six-way power front passenger seat).
The optional GT Premium package ($2,500) added Mazda’s i-Eloop brake regeneration system that increases fuel efficiency. Also included were active grille shutters, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, premium Nappa leather sport seats, interior ambient lighting, a black headliner, and unique interior trim elements. Total MSRP including destination: $34,695.

Interior Highlights
The material quality is high and the styling inside the Mazda6 is first rate. We had a black with white interior trim on our tester which is our favorite cabin look. Stepping inside you’ll notice a sweeping dash crowned by a bright new seven-inch infotainment display screen. The Mazda Connect infotainment system is quick enough, but the control device is somewhat uncooperative and the mapping isn’t as good as some rivals.
The sport seats offer excellent support for spirited driving, and the Nappa leather on the Grand Touring gives the sedan a luxurious feel. We enjoyed the heated steering wheel and seats as a cold snap hit the front range of the Rocky Mountains near Denver this week. There’s impressive interior space up front, and there’s good leg and knee room in the rear, even for taller adults. The sporty styling does cut down on rear passenger headroom with the raked roofline, however.
The cabin is quiet on the road at highway speeds, and visibility is improved with the use of high-strength steel in the roof pillars, allowing them to be a bit narrower. The split rear seats fold forward for additional cargo room, and the trunk offers 14.8 cubic feet of space with a wide load opening.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2017 Mazda6 comes with one engine, a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder with SkyActiv technology. With direct injection, variable valve control, and a 14:1 compression ratio (in pursuit of fuel mileage), it produces 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft. of torque. We had the optional 6-speed sport mode automatic transmission.
The Mazda6 with an automatic gets an EPA estimated 27/35 city/highway and 30 combined mpg. We averaged an impressive 31.2 mpg for the week at altitude.
Driving Dynamics
True to Mazda vehicles being known for their good balance and handling, the Mazda6 maintains that standard, and even ups the game a few notches on the fun-to-drive meter. We are probably being picky when it comes to power, but we felt the 2.5-liter engine could use a bit more. We understand Mazda is trying to keep fuel mileage up and they succeeded in that department. Overall, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is smooth and it’s a joy to drive with the 6-speed automatic and steering wheel paddle shifters. This engine likes to rev and the paddle shifters give you the ability to get the most from this engine.
The Mazda6 came alive on the curvy roads we tested it on near Evergreen, Colorado. The steering felt solid and communicative, the ride was firm and planted with the 19-inch wheels on the Grand Touring trim. If you are looking for a plush sedan ride, the Mazda6 is probably not for you. If you like to drive, it’s the best in this segment. With the new G-Vectoring Control, the Mazda6 now applies braking to separate front wheels in the corners, shifting weight forward and increasing grip so the turn-in is more secure. When it releases, weight shifts to the rear for improved balance.
Conclusion
The 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring looks good and it feels even better when you get behind the wheel. The sedan handles exceptionally well, the ride is firm and sporty, and the response from the steering and automatic transmission is what driving enthusiasts will enjoy on the commute. The 2017 Mazda6 is a competent, comfortable, and enjoyable midsize sedan.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
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Mazda6 Official Site.
Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
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Best Gifts For The Car Lover On Your Shopping List

Best Gifts For The Car Lover On Your Shopping List

The holidays are quickly approaching, and with all the seasonal excitement comes new trends and must-have items. For those looking to impress the car lover on their gift list, there are upgrades that can provide them an improved look, better performance, and more comfort and convenience. Below are some suggestions (and predictions) for must-have items for the car enthusiast on your holiday shopping list.
Appealing To The Car Enthusiast
For those passionate about all things auto, it is especially important to keep up with new accessories that are designed to make the driving experience even more enjoyable. One product category to consider is LED lights, which allow for a unique level of customization while providing improved safety for the driver. LED headlights are a more concentrated light source so drivers can see further, whether at night or during poor weather conditions. As an added bonus, LED lights have an extended lifespan that will last long after the holiday season.
Another add-on that is popular for the enthusiast driver is performance exhaust kits. These kits serve several purposes, including improved styling, increased horsepower and torque, and the distinct sound only an aftermarket upgrade can give. If you are shopping for someone focused on looks, exhaust systems made of polished steel are especially popular. Luckily, for those shopping for systems that will change the sound of the vehicle, many sites now provide audio files that will allow you to hear the end result before you buy. Considering the many benefits a performance kit provides, it is a substantial bang for your buck. However, if you’re not ready to make a big ticket purchase, you can also buy performance parts, such as exhaust tips, incrementally.
Lastly, you can never go wrong with a unique body kit, especially as the “sporty look” has taken off in recent years. These kits allow drivers to make their prized possession stand out on the road, and have the added benefit of improved aerodynamics. If you aren’t sure if your car lover is ready for a full vehicle overhaul, these parts can also be purchased individually – this will help ease them into their auto makeover.

Benefiting The Family
Once you start a family, the focus for car fans often shifts from flashy looks and performance toward staying safe and organized. In may cases, the vehicle has become a work and play station. For the family man or woman, gifts that can protect both the owner and the vehicle are most practical, and in turn most popular. Custom seat covers and floor mats preserve the car’s interior and protect from outside forces that can be a pain to remove, such as mud or snow. Another way to protect against potential stains and messes is by keeping all participants happy with in-car entertainment systems. While many new models come with these systems pre-installed, vehicle owners with older rides have been eager, in recent years, to modify their vehicle with video systems that install in the headrests or pull down from the ceiling.
While these add-ons are all good options, keeping the family safe and secure is the chief concern. As vehicle safety continues to evolve, so does the availability of high-tech safety accessories like back-up cameras, 360-degree vision cameras, and devices that provide a “birds eye view” of all potential blind spots. Consider the long-term value this could provide to a potential friend or family member when thinking of your gift list.
Truck Owners
For truck drivers especially, their ride is a source of pride and they will look to accessories that show off their unique tastes. Bars, racks, and aftermarket lighting accessories all serve the dual purpose of added style with increased functionality. A truck’s bed is one of its most prized features as it can make transporting just about anything significantly easier. Consider giving the gift of protection with custom bed liners that will save the truck from damage and protect its future value from issues like rust and corrosion. Certain liners are even built to block out extreme weather and airborne pollutants.

New Drivers
For younger drivers, tech and gadgets have been an integral part of their day-to-day lives for as long as they can remember. For this group of car lovers, consider electronics that keep them connected and make driving safer. Some must-have items include Bluetooth kits, phone mounts, or additional chargers.
While not as glamorous as gifting the latest in connected gear, every new driver needs a few basics things to ensure they are prepared for the worst case scenario. If you want to focus on safety, personal emergency kits should contain a blanket, flashlight, portable shovel, and flares. As we approach colder weather, it also wouldn’t hurt to look into high-quality ice scrapers or snow brushes for a practical gift.
Every holiday season, the aftermarket industry is tasked to address changing consumer preferences, especially as our cars become increasingly more connected and tech-driven. With new, high-quality products being introduced every day, you’re sure to find the gift that is right for the auto enthusiast in your life.
Richard Reina is a Product Trainer at CARiD.com and lifelong automotive enthusiast.
Photos: CARiD.com.
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Volvo XC40 Production Kicks Off In Belgium

Volvo XC40 Production Kicks Off In Belgium

The forthcoming Volvo XC40 is the automaker’s opportunity to redefine the compact SUV segment. It’s an ideal move as compact SUVs continue to find favor with customers; the segment is one of the auto industry’s fastest growing pockets, and Volvo expects the XC40 will generate growth and strong revenue. The XC40 will arrive alongside the XC60 and XC90, polishing off Volvo’s SUV catalog.
Solid Start
Thus far, over 13,000 XC40 orders have been taken from local retailers, a solid number given it’s Volvo’s first small premium SUV. Recently, the first customer-bound XC40 rolled off the assembly line at Volvo’s plant in Ghent, Belgium. To commemorate the event, a number of notable and high-profile figures were on hand, including Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel, Volvo Cars Chief Executive Officer and President Håkan Samuelsson, and Javier Varela, Senior Vice President, Manufacturing and Logistics, Volvo Cars.
“This is a proud day for Ghent, the company, and all our employees here,” Samuelsson said.

Beautiful Beast
Volvo has been making considerable investments in the Ghent plant in recent years, preparing it for XC40 production. Since Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) underpins the new XC40, many of the investments were directed at making Ghent a global export hub for other CMA-based vehicles. An 86,000 square foot addition was tacked onto the body shop and over 360 robots were installed, one of which is nicknamed “The Beast.” The Beast is responsible for lifting vehicle bodies onto a conveyor belt near the plant’s ceiling – this type of robot is unique to Volvo’s manufacturing.

Building Blocks
Ghent is one of two Volvo car manufacturing plants in Europe, and has been in operation since 1965. Today, the plant builds the V40, V40 Cross Country, S60, and V60. The XC40 ushers in a new era for the plant, especially with its CMA foundation, something Volvo says will create the “necessary synergies and economies of scale for the small, premium car segment.”
“Our people have put in long days and many hours to prepare the plant for the start of XC40 production and they have done a great job,” Samuelsson explained. “The XC40 represents a bright future for Ghent and for Volvo Cars.”
The first XC40 customers will receive their vehicles early next year.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
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2018 Chevy Traverse RS: Not Your Father’s Traverse

2018 Chevy Traverse RS: Not Your Father’s Traverse SUVs are a viable option for many consumers today. In general, SUVs offer enough interior room for the family and solid all-weather capability. Depending on the model, fuel efficiency, engine performance, and exterior styling might be added bonuses. Chevrolet is definitely aiming for all of the above with the 2018 Traverse RS, the latest SUV to emerge from the GM stable.
“The 2018 Traverse offers a full product lineup positioned to effectively compete across the segment,” said Steve Majoros, Chevrolet Marketing Director for Cars and Crossovers.
Standpoints & Styling
What Majoros is saying from a business standpoint makes sense. SUVs are strong sellers and having variety never hurts when it comes to attracting new or retaining existing customers. Majoros says the Traverse lineup is modeled in such a way that buyers are able to find something that suits their needs. And in recent times, that demand has really shifted toward the upper end of the spectrum, where the Traverse RS will live.
“By offering customers more choice with higher-end entries like the RS, which has a more street-inspired look, and top-of-the-line High Country, Chevrolet now offers a comfortable and connected Traverse for every lifestyle,” he explained.
The easiest way to spot the Traverse RS is simply by how it looks. Unique styling elements include a black grille, black window trim, black roof rails, black bowtie emblems, and 20-inch aluminum wheels with a Dark Android finish.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Features & Performance
The 2018 Chevy Traverse RS is ideal for those who need to haul the family around but want a little more excitement while doing so. Yes, there is the practical stuff: it has everything one would expect in an SUV or a crossover, including a host of enhanced safety and connectivity features, heated seats, remote start, and lots of cargo room. To the latter, Chevy says it’s best-in-class at 98.2 cubic feet.
Regarding the excitement factor, Chevy has packed a turbocharged engine under the hood that delivers 257 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. Chevy says 90 percent of that peak torque is available at only 2,100 rpm, meaning when you hit the gas it goes. A nine-speed automatic transmission is matched with the engine for an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20/26 mpg city/highway.
OnStar 4G LTE and an available built-in Wi-Fi hotspot lead the list of connectivity features while Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Park Assist are among the most useful safety features. Other niceties include tri-zone automatic climate control, power liftgate, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Chevy Traverse RS is available now and starts at $43,095.
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.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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New Study: Traffic Fatalities Likely To Increase During Thanksgiving

New Study: Traffic Fatalities Likely To Increase During Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is always an enjoyable time as family and friends gather around to celebrate. There are football games (go Lions!) and the obligatory afternoon nap in the recliner following a plate of turkey. It’s a great holiday but new research suggests we need to be mindful if our Thanksgiving plans involve travel. Already this year, we have reported on the dangers of being on the road on certain holidays, and unfortunately, Thanksgiving is becoming more deadly.
Grim Forecasts
The National Safety Council estimates 421 people may be killed and another 48,500 seriously injured on the road this Thanksgiving season. The fatality estimate is seven percent higher than the average number of fatalities (393) that occurred during the previous six Thanksgiving holiday periods for which data is available. The American Automobile Association says more than 50 million people will travel over Thanksgiving weekend, which increases the risk of collisions and fatalities.
“Americans must employ those defensive driving skills we learn in driver’s ed classes: slow down, pay attention, and be prepared for anything,” said Maureen Vogel, Senior Public Relations Manager and Spokeswoman, National Safety Council. “Do not let your desire to get to your destination override safety.”

Sobering Realities
Not surprisingly, drunk driving accounts for more than one-third of Thanksgiving weekend fatalities. Thanksgiving Eve or “Blackout Wednesday” is of particular note, even being classified as a cultural phenomenon by the National Safety Council. In short, the night before Thanksgiving is ripe with excessive travel and alcohol consumption, and the combination is like oil and water.
“The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is as famous for its parties and celebrations as Thanksgiving is for its feasts,” Vogel explained. “In an era where alternative transportation options are prevalent, it is important for drivers to designate a sober, drug-free driver every time.”
The National Safety Council says more education and action is needed on the issue of impaired driving. The organization is optimistic but believes a grounded strategy in human behavior theory is necessary to change society’s outlook. For example, in the past year, and despite being over the legal limit (0.08), more than one in eight admitted to driving anyway. While the National Safety Council encourages states to institute sobriety checkpoints, require ignition interlocks for offenders, and revoke licenses, they also point out alcohol is not the lone culprit.
“People tend to think of only alcohol as impairing, but medications can be impairing too,” Vogel said. “Opioid-involved crashes have increased sevenfold in the last few years, and you never should drive while taking these medicines.”
In our report on the dangers of Halloween, Special First Lieutenant Jim Flegel, a Traffic Safety Specialist with the Michigan State Police said Michigan’s drunk driving incidents are decreasing. Drugged driving, however, continues to rise; even routine medications pose a hazard, something the average person is not likely to consider.
“We want to get the word out to not get behind the wheel when you are impaired on other drugs, which can include prescription medication,” he said. “Unfortunately, over this last year, drugged driving has seen a drastic increase.”

Tips & Advice
The data for Thanksgiving (and other holidays) shows an increasing potential for disaster, but we cannot live in a bubble either. If you and your family are traveling this holiday season, there are few precautions you can take – actually, they are good tactics to employ all year.
“Get plenty of sleep to avoid fatigue, always drive attentively, and never use a cell phone, even a hands-free device,” Vogel said. “The simplest is to ensure everyone is buckled up in every seating position, and children are restrained in safety seats that are appropriate for their height and weight.”
According to the Michigan State Police, traffic crashes are the primary killer of people under age 32, and take more young lives than all types of crime combined. Troopers say if parents would simply buckle up their kids would be more inclined to do the same.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Resources From The National Safety Council
Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained and take care of any open recalls.
Consider ways to encourage your teenage children to drive safely and responsibly.
Take a brief tutorial of your vehicle’s active safety features if it is equipped with them.
Safety Tips From Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Designate a sober driver.
Use a taxi or ride share service.
Plan ahead if your night includes alcohol.
Buckle up: This is the best defense against an impaired driver.
MADD Victim Services Hotline: 1-877-MADD-HELP (24 hours / 7 days a week).
Safety Tips From The Michigan State Police
Abide by all traffic laws and posted signs.
Pay attention behind the wheel at all times.
Remove all distractions in the car, including cell phones.
Drive with the headlights on at all times, even during the day.
Be mindful of your mood – your emotional state can alter your driving.
Avoid tailgating, the most common, preventable cause of traffic collisions.
Use special caution in areas marked with deer or other animal crossing signs.
Never drive more than 100 miles at a time – switch drivers even if you do not feel tired.
Always place infants in rear-facing child restraints in the back seat and secure with a safety belt.
Allow for plenty of time when crossing a street or intersection; use sidewalks whenever available and never cross the street mid-block.
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Automoblog In-Depth: Are The Holidays A Good Time To Buy A Car?

Automoblog In-Depth: Are The Holidays A Good Time To Buy A Car?

Black Friday marks the start of the holiday shopping season as many stores, businesses, and other outlets advertise their best deals and biggest savings of the year. Many retailers and malls extend their hours and every year, it seems some of the more ambitious shoppers make the news by camping out (literally) at the front of the line. And while holiday shoppers are grabbing Black Friday deals on clothes, games, and electronics, what about a larger purchase, like an automobile? If someone is in the market for a car, does it behoove them to visit a dealership over the holidays?
Pre-Owned Vehicles
A new study by iSeeCars.com, an automotive data and research company, shows Black Friday is one of the best days for scoring a deal on a pre-owned vehicle. The iSeeCars.com team analyzed over 48 million 1- to 5-year-old used car sales from January 2013 through December 2016, comparing holidays and months of the year to determine which times offered the best deals. A “deal” was defined as a savings of at least 5 percent.
“We then ranked the holidays by this percentage, as well as the months, and found that holidays in November and December, and consequently the months of November and December, offer more deals than you would expect to typically find on an average day,” explained Phong Ly, Chief Executive Officer, iSeeCars.com.
The research by iSeeCars.com indicated Veteran’s Day provided the most deals (43.2 percent more than average), followed by Black Friday (37.5 percent) and Christmas Eve (35.6 percent). Ly says dealers are trying to meet their annual goals and end-of-year quotas, especially in November and December. As a result, they are more likely to lower profit margins and offer extra discounts to bolster sales.
“In addition, new cars from the next model year begin selling in or around August,” he said. “As a result, more used cars come onto the market as they’re traded-in as part of new car purchases, and the increased supply of used cars toward the end of the year also helps drive prices down.”
Overall, based on the percentage of deals offered, November is the best month, with pre-owned car shoppers receiving 38.4 percent more deals when compared to an average day. December (38.2 percent more deals) is close behind. By comparison, October comes in at 16.7 percent, January at 19.9 percent, and February at 4.8 percent. May was the worst month, with 28.3 percent fewer deals on average.
“While Memorial Day and the 4th of July have associations with car sales and better deals, that doesn’t seem to hold for used car sales,” Ly said. “We found fewer deals than average on those holidays, and the months from late spring through summer are generally not great for finding used car deals.”
According to data from iSeeCars.com, the Cadillac CTS is one of the best bargains for shoppers seeking a pre-owned luxury vehicle. Pictured here is a 2013 model. Photo: General Motors.
New Vehicles
So pre-owned car shoppers are likely to come away with some savings but what about those eyeing a new model? Do new vehicle buyers receive any extra incentives? The November Dealer DataView index shows dealership websites are seeing an increase in traffic, growing by 3 percent in October versus September. The report notes the increase in web activity may usher in a “relatively robust selling climate” as dealerships prepare for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
“The DataView index provides a timely snapshot and actionable insights for dealers seeking to better understand consumer sentiment,” said James Grace, Senior Director of Analytics Products, Cox Automotive Media Solutions. “As dealers gear up for the holiday season, the November report points to another period of robust demand and purchase intent from car shoppers.”
Dealertrack data from 2016 revealed a near 40 percent rise in credit applications on Black Friday compared to other Fridays in November. That finding suggests dealerships may prioritize Black Friday accordingly this year. And while Cyber Monday registered only a 2.6 percent growth in credit applications over other Mondays in November last year, it’s still an increase, and perhaps a sign some additional savings may be in the holiday air.
“At the beginning of November, we saw a number of dealers and automakers launch Black Friday and holiday promotional events – the famous red bows came out – as they do every year as a way to close out the year on a high note,” said Michelle Krebs, Executive Analyst, Autotrader.
Generally speaking, as the year comes to an end, the factory rebates and dealer discounts get better. However, the selection may not be as great. Photo: Michael Gaida.
Due Diligence
Krebs believes car shoppers should still exercise a little caution, regardless of what the holiday promotions say. While the big inflatable gorillas and “Black Friday Sales Event” ribbons may resonate with consumers, those might only be there for show. Sometimes, holiday specials advertised on other products are marketing ploys and cars are no exception.
“The deals this time of year are pretty good, but prices specifically on Black Friday are about the same as they are the week before or the week after,” Krebs explained. “Automakers and dealers simply try to ride the wave of the shopping frenzy created by Black Friday.”
“Don’t assume that just because it’s Black Friday that every car from every dealer is discounted,” Ly added.
Shoppers who need a new vehicle but want to maximize their savings should consider a 2017 model. Granted, the vehicle would be a year old at that point, but it will still come with a full factory warranty. Also, depending on a given vehicle’s product development cycle, a 2017 may be little to no different than a 2018. For example, if a vehicle was recently redesigned, a 2017 model is likely to have the same (or very similar) features as a “new” 2018.
“For consumers who want a really good price, shop leftover 2017 models,” Krebs said. “Between now and the end of the year, consumers will find excellent prices and more negotiating room on leftover 2017s as automakers and dealers do whatever it takes to clear out the previous year’s inventory before the start of the new year.”

Advice & Considerations
Shopping for a car isn’t always the easiest thing in the world. If you find yourself needing advice on the buying process or insight on a particular model, please contact us. Our team is well versed and experienced when it comes to this and we are always happy to help. iSeeCars.com provides this handy video on questions you should ask at the dealership. It’s important to not get the cart before the horse. Indeed, it might be the deal of the century, but take it one step at a time.
“Just because there are more deals offered on Black Friday doesn’t mean the general rules of thumb about buying a car don’t apply,” Ly said. “Things like doing online research ahead of time about the cars you’re interested in, figuring out your budget, test-driving the car, and getting the car inspected by an independent mechanic are still important to do.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
The complete holiday deals study from iSeeCars.com can be found here.
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Nissan IMQ Concept: The Future of Hybrid Crossovers Is In Good Hands

Nissan IMQ Concept: The Future of Hybrid Crossovers Is In Good Hands The IMQ concept is Nissan’s vision for the future of transportation.
The concept’s styling and design is inspired by Japanese kumiko woodwork.
Invisible-to-Visible (I2V) technology is one of the IMQ concept’s top safety features.
Nissan is riding high on the success of the Nissan Leaf. We give credit when it’s due, so kudos to Nissan for being one of the EV pioneers in the industry. And while the Nissan IMx and IMS electric vehicles are still fresh in the minds of Nissan lovers alike, the Japanese car maker is singing a different tune with the IMQ concept hybrid crossover.
Yes, it’s a hybrid. And a pretty one at that.
Taking The Stage
The Nissan IMQ concept made quite an impression during the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show. Because unlike other concept vehicles with ridiculous features and polarizing designs, the IMQ concept feels – for lack of a better word – closer to reality. Now, we all know how concepts turn from good to not-so-good when the production version hits the shelves, so it’s better to calm your appetite until we get to the juicy parts.
But if by some stroke of magic Nissan infuses the design cues of the IMQ in the production model, then I’m all in. From the looks of it, it seems the future of hybrid crossovers is in good hands.
Nissan IMQ concept. Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Related: Connecting your literal brain to the Nissan IMx KURO concept.
Stealth Attack Fighter
This is where it gets interesting. Where the Nissan IMx crossover and IMS sedan carry the familiar V-motion grille, the IMQ Concept is brandishing a different face; and it’s all for the better. I find nothing wrong with the front face of the IMx and IMS, but the IMQ Concept is the most desirable among the three.
And it has to be. The IMQ Concept marks a bold new direction in Nissan’s design language. The new V-motion grille is more subtle and blends vertically into the sharper hood. It also wraps in the front bumper horizontally, creating outer edges similar to what you see in the F-117A Nighthawk stealth attack fighter. The windshield wraps around the body with ultra-thin A-pillars and no B-pillars, which necessitates the use of rear suicide doors.
On some angles, the Nissan IMQ looks like the lovechild of a Nissan GT-R and Lexus RX Hybrid. From the rear, it manages to resemble the BMW X6, but in a better way. There’s a vertical character line that drops from the “boomerang” light clusters to literally split the air as it passes down the side. This not only improves aerodynamic performance, but it gives the crossover the gait of a much sportier vehicle.
See those darkened lower sections in the body? Those are detailed layers called “lamellas” and are splattered all over the exterior. Not sure if this feature makes it to production, but it shows the traditional Japanese side of Nissan.
Three-dimensional ridges on the darkened lower sections, known as “lamellas,” signify traditional Japanese design. Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
If by some stroke of magic @Nissan infuses the design cues of the IMQ in the production model, then I’m all in. From the looks of it, it seems the future of hybrid crossovers is in good hands.Click To TweetDriven by e-POWER
The Nissan IMQ concept may be a hybrid, but it’s a different breed of hybrid. For one thing, it comes with Nissan’s next-generation e-POWER electric motor drive system. Now we can nerd on this tech all day, but I’ll make it simple: e-POWER allows you to experience the sensation of driving an EV without worrying about charging the damn thing.
The vehicle comes with four electric motors at each wheel. Nissan claims a combined output of 335 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. of torque. It also comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline mill to charge the battery pack, although why you’ll need a turbo for this purpose is beyond me – maybe to “super-charge” or “turbo-charge” the charging, perhaps?
And since all four wheels have their respective motors, the power is channeled directly to a new multi-motor all-wheel drive system. This allows the IMQ concept to deliver precise and independent control of each wheel. This means conquering snowy, rocky, or rougher patches of tarmac; because nobody said you can’t go off-roading in a hybrid. The upcoming Jeep Renegade and Compass plug-in hybrids are proof of that.
Of course, no concept SUV is complete without a set of evocative 22-inch alloy wheels and smart tires. If the Imagine by Kia Concept came with Goodyear Intelligrip EV concept tires, the Nissan IMQ makes do with bespoke Bridgestone Connect tires. The rollers transmit data to the vehicle ECU to precisely calibrate the performance of the vehicle. Cool stuff, but I’m wondering how much it costs to fix a puncture in these tires?
Each seat is finished in a two-tone 3D technical fabric inspired by Japanese kumiko woodwork. The pattern is replicated on the instrument panel, door trim, parcel shelf, and on the seat back’s metallic finish. Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
e-POWER allows you to experience the sensation of driving an #EV without worrying about charging the damn thing.Click To TweetTechnological Showcase: A Throwback
If the exterior emanates a high-tech presence, wait until you get inside. The controls and displays are clearly oriented toward the driver. It has a humongous 33-inch digital display (take that, Tesla!) along with a secondary screen above the center console. Even the steering wheel is not spared from the modern touch. Just look at that thing. It’s like piloting the Millennium Falcon in there, which 40-year-old kids will surely appreciate.
Technological Showcase: Innovative Safety
But the biggest tech showcase in the Nissan IMQ concept is not the outrageously huge display or the funky tiller. The distinction belongs to Nissan’s Invisible-to-Visible (I2V) Technology. It merges the real world with the virtual one. It allows the driver to see through buildings, obstacles, and larger objects. This helps you see better around corners and intersections to prevent and reduce accidents. Again, we can salivate like geeks, because this is space-age tech.
Nissan’s innovative safety feature utilizes Omni-Sensing technology to collect “real-world sensing information,” both inside and outside the cabin. The vehicle also benefits from Nissan’s ProPilot Assist system via the barrage of sensors, radars, and cameras located throughout the vehicle.
Nissan’s Invisible-To-Visible (I2T) Technology detects hidden obstacles on the road ahead. Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
It's like piloting the Millennium Falcon in there, which 40-year-old kids will surely appreciate.Click To TweetNext-Generation Nissan Crossover
So far, so good. The Nissan IMQ Concept is clearly targeted at a different niche. It’s a hybrid crossover for those who aren’t ready to take the full-EV plunge. Whether all this makes it to production is the million dollar question.
We’ll just have to wait and see.
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.
Nissan IMQ Concept Gallery

Photos & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

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Letter From The UK: Travelling In Great Britain

Letter From The UK: Travelling In Great Britain
One of the few benefits of living in the UK is that, being a relatively small island nation, nothing is that far away. At a push, a healthy alert driver could go end to end in well under twenty-four hours. This means our diverse and varied countryside, regions, historic towns, and teeming cities are pretty much accessible to all. If you like to travel and see places and things, then it’s all here in a neat package tied up with string.
God’s Country
The UK contrasts hugely with the USA. This writer is regularly astonished by the sights and sounds of inland America. Watching news or movies and seeing empty highways winding through deep, dark forests or running straight as an arrow across wide open plains is awesome. We, with our tiny lanes and byways, can barely comprehend the sheer vastness of the American continent.
We hear tales of American families who drive many, many miles just to get to a McDonald’s. I can walk to mine. Also a Costa, a Burger King, and an Asda/Walmart. That’s the difference between our two nations; but one thing that we can certainly agree on is that it is always best to go on our travels in a good car. For me that means Subaru.
Fear Of European Travel?
As you’ve read often in my Letters, the UK is leaving the European Union and it is all getting very fractious and, frankly, a bit stupid. One alleged “expert” says that we Brits are these days choosing to take our vacations (or “staycations” as they insist on calling them) in the UK because we fear the consequences of Brexit when it comes to visiting Europe.
This is of course arrant nonsense and demonstrates quite clearly how people will say anything to cause division and fear over what is essentially merely a political mess much like the USA is currently experiencing. Politicians eh? Can’t live with them; can’t put them all on a one-way rocket to Mars.
History shows that – Shock! – well before the EU existed, Britons took holidays in Europe. How can it be any different? This is what happens when the lunatics take over the asylum. How happy we would be if politicians and their mouthpieces just left us all alone.
Automoblog Feature Columnist Geoff Maxted on a scenic drive through the British countryside. Those in the United States should consider traveling abroad more often. A May 2017 study by NBC News found that traveling abroad can enhance creativity and lower the risk of depression. Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
To Cornwall In An Outback
But enough of all this grumbling; let’s go on a road trip.
Cornwall is the nearest British county to America. Stand on the lofty mainland eminence of Land’s End and the next stop is the USA. Like many regions, Cornwall has its own identity. It even has its own language that just a few years ago was remembered and spoken by just a few, but is now being learned and spoken by new generations. There is even a band of enthusiasts working for an independent Cornwall. This would be like Florida ceding from the Union.
It is a beautiful county with mixed countryside from the lush green of the South to the rugged moorlands of the North. Surfing is a way of life with Fistral beach at Newquay being the centre of the universe as far as UK surfers are concerned. The Outback below is pictured there.
As an example of UK travel, from my home I can reach Cornwall in under three hours yet the weather is generally milder, and the renowned light beloved of artists and photographers alike is clear and bright, like a child’s eyes. It is a place to relax and unwind; I know, I used to live there.
About The Outback
Subaru offers a small range of cars and I like all of them. The Outback as driven here has a punchy and strong 2.5-liter flat-four “Boxer” petrol engine. It’s a big and roomy four-wheel drive car and very comfortable on the road. It eats long distances, driving through a “Lineartronic” CVT gearbox with ideal ratios for big journeys.
Our car was fitted with Subaru’s Eyesight safety technology and let me tell you it works! We have our fair share of idiots on the road too. The car has all the latest safety technology and all the usual infotainment suspects but, unlike some manufacturers, Subaru does not make a big deal out of it. The dashboard is plain, almost austere, but the seats are big and there’s plenty of family space. This car is all about the business of driving and travelling backed up by Subaru’s legendary symmetrical four-wheel drive.
Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
In Padstow
And talking of legends: The scenic coastal town of Padstow, nestling on the banks of the River Camel tidal estuary, is the base for the now global enterprise that is Chef Rick Stein. This is the place he established his first restaurant, still thriving, and where his quayside premises serve that most traditional of British meals, fish and chips.
Often embellished with brown vinegar and salt (honest, it works) this is the traditional British take away meal. When push comes to shove you can keep your oriental cuisine or meat patties in a bun and feed me this. Armies march on this stuff and Rick Stein’s is just about as good as it gets.
So remember: The UK is still worth a visit but instead of going to our capital city London, currently run by a buffoon and where you will pay a king’s ransom for a hotel room, why not instead tour around the country. Car hire is reasonably inexpensive and, getting back to my original point, nowhere is very far away. When all is said and done and despite the best efforts of successive governments, the UK remains a great country. Best seen from a Subaru.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite
Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
From NBC News: 5 Scientifically Proven Health Benefits of Traveling Abroad.

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New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Promises More Comfort, Safety & Work-Friendly Features

New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Promises More Comfort, Safety & Work-Friendly Features Sometimes, work vans and transport vehicles have a reputation for being bare-bones at best. Recently, we took the Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van for an extensive test drive. We liked the van well enough but thought it could use a few more basic features. Mercedes-Benz recently revealed the new Sprinter and addressed those concerns by promising “comfort and safety features at a passenger car level.” When it hits the market, the new Sprinter will offer more than 1,700 different configurations worldwide – surely enough to distinguish Mercedes-Benz from the rest of this segment.
“The Sprinter continues to embody the traditional attributes that have made it so successful worldwide since its market launch – flexibility, robustness, and economy,” said Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “This makes it the first end-to-end system solution for commercial fleets, both for Mercedes-Benz Vans and for the entire industry.”
Connect & Manage
According to Mercedes-Benz, the new Sprinter will provide “maximum cost-effectiveness thanks to lower total operating costs and customer-oriented features.” One such feature is a networked service called Mercedes PRO Connect, said to help with the logistical challenges and transport requirements fleet managers face, regardless of how many vehicles they oversee. Mercedes PRO links the fleet manager with each vehicle and driver so they can better manage assignments and vital vehicle information like location, fuel level or maintenance intervals.
“Mercedes PRO Connect professionalizes our customers in terms of efficient fleet management, improved navigation, efficient analysis of driving style, digitalized recording, and remote vehicle operations,” reads a statement from the automaker.
Photo: MBUSA.
Flexibility & Features
With the aforementioned 1,700 configurations, Mercedes-Benz is hoping customers can find the right Sprinter for their daily needs. Of the examples they give: couriers on last mile deliveries, transportation of goods over long distances, and technicians who may keep parts stocked on the van for service calls. The new Sprinter can also be put to work as a camper van, bus, or airport shuttle, and can be used as an ambulance or fire rescue vehicle.
Although they don’t mention the comfort features specifically, Mercedes-Benz says the new Sprinter comes with a host of safety and convenience items, including a self-cleaning rear-view camera, a 360-degree view parking camera, and a rain sensor with an integrated Wet Wiper system for optimum visibility. Mercedes-Benz, although a bit vague, says the new Sprinter will have other “detailed improvements with a major effect on the cab as a workplace.”
Photo: MBUSA.
Pricing & Availability
The new Sprinter will arrive by the end of this year in the U.S. market, with the final U.S. product range and available configurations to be announced. The electrified eSprinter is expected to hit the U.S. in 2019. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter first launched in Europe in 1995 and arrived in the United States in 2001.
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.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Gallery

Photos & Source: MBUSA.

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