Automotive

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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New Study: Interest Growing For Electric Vehicles, Range Anxiety Still A Concern

New Study: Interest Growing For Electric Vehicles, Range Anxiety Still A Concern The American Automobile Association or AAA has revealed their top green vehicle picks, and released a survey that shows Americans are warming up to electric vehicles. What’s particularly striking is how 20 percent – or close to 50 million Americans are looking to buy an electric vehicle as their next car. That’s a 15 percent jump from 2017.
“Today, electric vehicles have mainstream appeal,” said Greg Brannon, Director of Automotive Engineering, AAA. “While concern for the environment is still a major motivator, the AAA found that U.S. drivers are also attracted to the lower long term costs and advanced technology features that many of these vehicles offer.”
Advantages, Disadvantages & Concerns
One of the biggest motivators for buying an electric vehicle is fuel cost. Although electricity is not free, you pay less money to charge the batteries in an EV compared to buying gas for a conventional car. Did you know Americans spend an average of $2,000 to $4,000 on gas each year? You have more money in your pocket if you shift to an electric car.
“Gas prices are some of the highest we have seen since 2014, and we expect these to increase as we head into the summer travel season,” Brannon said. “As the gas prices increase, more consumers will be looking to go electric.”
Photo: Kia Motors America.
Advantages
Zero emissions. Electric cars do not emit smog or toxic gases. You are doing the environment a huge favor each time you drive an EV over a gasoline-powered vehicle.
Less maintenance. Conventional cars require periodic maintenance. This includes the requisite oil changes, tune ups, brakes, tires, air filters, and cleaning products that accumulates to thousands of dollars over the life of the car. Modern electric vehicles like the Tesla Model S are reputed to have only 18 moving parts, which is surprising considering normal vehicles will have an average of ten thousand moving parts. You simply pay less money on maintenance if you choose an EV.
Zero noise pollution. Electric vehicles are meek and quiet compared to gas-guzzling V8s.
Blazing performance. The 2017 Tesla Model S P100D in Ludicrous mode can hit 60 mph in a mind-boggling 2.27 seconds. Electric vehicles are capable of unleashing a genuine rush of torque from zero rpm, which equates to a mesmerizing and exhilarating driving experience.
Photo: Tesla Motors.
Top Concerns
Range anxiety. Electric cars are fast, but lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries are exhausted quickly if you push hard. Even though the new Tesla Model 3 and Nissan Leaf have a range of 220 and 151 miles respectively, range anxiety is a concern for 87 percent of EV shoppers.
AAA concluded 63 percent of potential EV buyers cited not enough places to charge as a detractor while 58 percent expressed concern about running out of charge. Automakers like Kia and Hyundai have proposed new innovations to make charging more accessible to the general public. Last year, a grouping of automakers proposed a high-power charging network for Europe.
“The AAA provides over 30 million emergency roadside events every year, and the number of times an EV owner runs out of charge would be counted in many decimal places,” Brannon said. “Plan your trip accordingly and use public charging when available.”
Lengthy charging times. Even though more Americans are more eager to buy an electric vehicle, the number and location of charging points is also a concern. There are now more than 16,000 charging stations scattered across the U.S. but charging times are a different issue.
A majority (68 percent) of respondents feel a charging time of no more than 30 minutes is reasonable. The new Nissan Leaf can be fully charged in 7.5 hours using the latest 7kW chargers, but you can get an 80 percent charge in as little as 40 minutes using a commercial rapid charger.
“Consumers are accustomed to the time it takes to fill their fuel tanks currently,” Brannon added. “They understand electric charging may take longer, but the idea of waiting more than 30 minutes for a charge when out on the road is not appealing to consumers.”

Disadvantages
Battery replacement. While EVs require less money to maintain, the batteries will eventually need replacing. Most EV manufacturers are currently offering an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on their batteries. But if you are planning to own your EV for longer, the cost of replacing the battery is a huge concern. The battery pack in a Chevrolet Bolt is estimated to cost $205 per kWh, which is no small deal!
Uninspired styling. Early EVs can only be described as unconventional or plain ugly. However, the AAA survey concluded fewer drivers are concerned with style, color, or appearance. In fact, 34 percent are not worried about style while 33 percent are not particular when it comes to the brand.
“This is an interesting shift,” Brannon said. “As consumers look to advanced technology available on a car, brand becomes less of a deciding factor.”

AAA Top Green Vehicle Award
In 2018, the following earned AAA’s Top Green Vehicle award. The full survey and complete list of winning vehicles can be found here.
Chevrolet Bolt EV Premier
The Bolt is equipped with a 60 kWh lithium-ion battery good for an average range of 238 miles on a single charge. This EV comes with an eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty and a bumper-to-bumper limited warranty of three years or 36,000 miles.
Nissan Leaf SL
The Leaf is reputed to be the world’s best-selling electric car. It has a range of 151 miles and offers 40 percent more range than the previous generation Leaf. This EV is also accompanied by an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.
Tesla Model X 75D
Backed by the technological vision of Tesla CEO Elon Musk, the Model X 75D is the first-ever electric vehicle designed to accommodate the whole family (yes, including the dog). It hits 60 mph in 2.9 seconds, faster than most sports cars.
So, would you buy an electric vehicle for your next car?
“EVs are the future,” Brannon concluded. “Americans are beginning to realize that, as well as the automakers that are investing billions in development of electrified options.”
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.
Cover Photo: Honda North America.

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Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600: The Golden Eyes

Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600: The Golden Eyes Back in 1998, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage V600 was (briefly) the most powerful car you could buy. And now, 20 years later, the Gaydon outfit has seen fit to resurrect the idea of the V600 with the limited run V12 Vantage V600. Impressive? Yes. Heavier than it should be? Also yes. Overthought styling? Of course, this is an Aston Martin. Worth it? Mos def!
Golden Eyes
Q by Aston Martin, the veddy British carmaker’s everso unique personalization service, accepted a customer commission for a limited run of 14 new Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600s. There will be seven coupes and seven roadsters produced, all 14 of them designed and handcrafted without compromise. AM calls it the Triple V, for some pretentious reason, but never fully explains why. My guess is that it has a V12, is called the V600, and is built on the previous-gen ‘VH’ Vantage.
The 2018 Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600 merges the modern performance, safety, and comfort features into what Aston calls a “muscle sportscar.” I’m not sure what that is but, honestly, sounds like something Detroit would say to convince you a Camaro is a real sports car (I also like how AM did it old school and called it a sportscar, one word).
Or, to put it another way: The V12 Vantage V600 is the ultimate analogue Vantage.
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Power & Performance
Propelled by an upgraded version of Aston Martin’s already imposing six-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, the Vantage V600 cranks out 600PS (effectively 600 ponies). Said mill is mated to a seven-speed manual transmission. I’ll say that again: a seven-speed manual transmission! Aston Martin says it “provides an engaged driving experience.” Ya think?
The thing is held up via a front and rear, dual independent wishbone suspension with three-stage adaptive damping that yields a beautiful ride in all conditions.
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Exterior & Interior Treatments
To say the V12 Vantage V600 has a commanding road presence and aggressive styling is sort of like saying Mike Tyson comes across as slightly angrier than the Dalai Lama. The exterior is full-carbon fiber, and on the V600, utilizes a re-imagined side-strake referencing the 90s version. The big bulging on the hood hints towards the powerful engine contained within – guess that’s why they call them “power bulges” huh?
The gaping grille provides maximum air flow to the car’s engine, which is probably working right at the limits of thermal efficiency. At the back end there’s an all-new carbon fiber diffuser and an attention-getting quad exhaust system. Also setting the V600 apart from the rest of its siblings are bespoke center-lock forged and machined aluminum wheels.
The inside is accented, trimmed, and flourished with carbon fiber and dark anodized aluminum. The seats are lightweight and have an all-new perforation pattern. The center console is also carbon fiber and features bespoke driver information dials. The center armrest is even hand-crafted saddle leather.
Availability
If you’ve got the wherewithal (i.e. many, many, many Benjamins) the Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600 is available per your request with deliveries taking place in the third quarter of 2018.
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.
Photos & Source: Aston Martin The Americas.

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The Hyundai LAFESTA Is An Alright Car, But The Marketing Could Use Some Work

The Hyundai LAFESTA Is An Alright Car, But The Marketing Could Use Some Work Hey all you go-gettin’ red hot Chinese Millennials, Hyundai has got the car for you: LAFESTA (all caps)! This is a Chinese-market-only sedan that comes with enough marketing gibberish to choke a horse and enough sloganeering to make the Zhongxuanbu nod in quiet approval.
The vehicle made its debut recently at Auto China 2018 and here is what Hyundai had to say: “At the 2018 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition Hyundai premiered the LAFESTA. A car with a powerful driving performance packaged in stylish design.”
Then they added: “LAFESTA is a landmark addition to the aggressively expanding Hyundai line-up in China.”
Seriously, the press release is riddled with sayings like that.
Pop Quiz
Can you pick which ones were written by Hyundai Motor Company for the Beijing show:
1 – “LAFESTA embodies Hyundai’s new design philosophy, Sensuous Sportiness.”
2 – “Long live the 23rd of August, the great celebration of the LAFESTA.”
3 – “LAFESTA targets young generation looking for smart performance.”
4 – “All the best on the occasion of November 7th, followed by the slogan LAFESTA forever.”
If you thought numbers 2 and 4, you would be wrong, those are Romanian Communist Party slogans. Numbers 1 and 3, however, are direct quotes. Can this marketing strategy work? Even in a sellers market like China? I dunno, but we’re going to find out, because Hyundai is not slowing down.
LAFESTA, which, yeah, is the word for festival, or party, although Hyundai specifies they nicked it from the Italians. That’s an obvious nod to making the point of: SPORTY-SPORTY-SPORTY! Buy our car all you young hip sportsters in China! LAFESTA, according to the Korean auto manufacturer, is a “high-performance sporty sedan designed to meet the dynamic and passionate demands of a new mainstream generation from the 80s and 90s.”
See! See!
Photo: Hyundai Motor Company.
Power & Performance
The LAFESTA is a coupe-styled sedan with a fairly modern powertrain and a slew of innovative driving assistance systems. It’s propelled by a 1.6 turbo GDi engine that puts out an unspecified amount of power and torque. That giant, throbbing mill is mated to a seven-speed dual clutch transmmission for efficient gear changes.
The inside is said to be spacious and made from quality materials. The overall cockpit environment is driver-focused and designed to be engaging. Safety? Set your mind at ease, my friend: “the LAFESTA features the most advanced and safest driving assistance systems. Further details will be disclosed in due course.”
See? Doesn’t that make you feel safer already?
Jumbled Jargon
And that is about it for deets on the (maybe) 2019 Beijing Hyundai LAFESTA, but the fun doesn’t stop there. Did you think we were done with the slogans? No we are not comrade.
Read this: “Beijing Hyundai today reiterated its new Chinese market strategy slogan ‘Quality Hyundai, Smart Future’, which was first announced last year in its 15th anniversary in the Chinese market, as the company sets about to develop and embrace the new generation, rapidly developing in the Chinese market.”
Does that make sense to you? Is it supposed to make sense? Is there some sort of entraining rhythm to the gibberish that will eventually make me shoot Bobby Lembeck in the forehead? I don’t know, but there it is: “Quality Hyundai, Smart Future.”
Here’s what I want to know: What if this marketing plan (such as it is) actually works for Hyundai in China? Will they try and use it over here? On Us? Sheesh, that’s a bleak thought. But now you know, if you start seeing things like “Pringles Now, Happytime Tomorrow” or “Chevy Man, Chevy Strong” you can’t say I didn’t warn you.
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.

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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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